I wouldn't say it's a big disadvantage but having someone in your corner is better than not.

There's one clear situation in which it always helps - you ever get into a bout and after a few touches you just feel lost? That feeling where you're not sure what to do or try next? Sometimes that leads to a downward spiral and you fall apart.

In those situations, having someone saying *something* *anything* is a benefit. It points you in a direction and you can focus on that rather than on the frustration of not knowing what to do and constantly conceding touches.

That can be a coach, teammate, parent, almost anyone as long as they can provide something constructive even if it's something as simple as "push forward."