One of the biggest misconceptions in martial arts is that many are under the assumption that for them, learning new techniques is what is going to set them apart from those who have not learned them.
Like anything else, the essence of martial arts is about unfettered insight into movement itself-----and in turn, the axiom and the success of any movement is first and foremost based on attributes or qualities. Anything else beyond this, is considered to be a vehicle or a conduit for the manifestation of those attributes---[o]nly!
In other words an attribute that we call for example [timing], is simply unknown to intelligence, until it reveal its identity through a vehicle we call technique. But technique is just a shell as necessary it may be. Therefore, the success and merit of any technique is solely dependent upon the range and domain of its qualities, and its failure is simple the lack thereof. So, it has nothing to do with the accumulation of any known techniques.
Knowing 50 different kicks does not make you an effective fighter, but attaining a high level of attributes such as timing, footwork, sensitivity, a sense of balance and etc is what's going to make you a formidable fighter, not how many techniques you know.
Now, since we cannot develop or even work on all attributes in one training session, therefore, we have to teach them in smaller quantums or discreet set of skills, otherwise confusion, injuries, and retrogression would set in.
We can use a number of proven systems to develop specific attributes we are aiming at, but it is absolutely misleading to think that techniques override everything. Now a quick clarification: the word technique is used differently in Brazilian Jiujitsu. We often hear Bjj friends say, this guy or that gal has great techniques. What they mean by that is, the person has great attributes in execution of certain moves. Their use of the words technique is vastly different than other traditional martial artists. So don’t mix them with other systems.
With all that being said, focus on attribute development and stress yourself less with accumulating and trying to remember techniques, even though at first it appears to be exactly that.
After all it's not the technique in itself that brings success to your game, but the attributes that actually control the course of your techniques. Focus more on attribute-development rather than technique accumulation and memorization!
Good luck on your training!
SHAHRAM MOOSAVI
480-489-7202