Overall strength in BJJ is good, but can at times be a hinderance.
How is this a hinderance?
Well, in the begginning of training you will be successful if you use a lot of power but soon, you may encounter guys that are much better with the techniques and will counter your strength and then you are at a disadvantage.
I would suggest that you try to keep your cardio and endurance as high as possible. Many ways to do that. Swim, bike, run...etc.
Of course hitting the gym with weights helps too.
Grip strength is very important and some have suggested rock climbing or the places that have climbing indoors.
Strong stomach muscles will also help since many times you will end up on your back and need the stomach muscles for different moves. I hate sit ups but do as many as you can, as often as you can. Push ups too.
Not that the other schools in Seattle are not good, but if you can, train with Black Belt Marcello Alonso. I took a seminar with him and he is what they say about him, the walking encylopedia of BJJ. From what I heard, Marcello was the head instructor at Carlson Sr.'s school in Brazil for many years and was deserving of that position. He's also a funny guy too, makes training a lot more fun.
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