5) How to change strategies according to your opponent:
All opponents you will be grappling or fighting against will have different strengths and weaknesses.
Developing the ability to read these strengths and weaknesses will allow you to develop superior strategy when going up against different opponents. This will help you understand which strategies to use against a faster or slower, stronger or weaker, more technical, more explosive, or more athletic opponent.
Differences in height, limb length and flexibility also need to be taken into account.
Double leg takedowns tend to work easier on taller individuals than on shorter ones.
It's also easier to armlock a longer arm than it is a shorter one.
These of course are generalizations and depend on your opponent's skills as well, but having the ability to change strategies depending on your opponents strengths is critical if one is to develop advanced skills in BJJ.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Monday, December 22, 2008
10 Things Every Grappler Should Know; Part 4
4) A critical aspect of grappling is knowing how to escape a Position:
Being able to escape positions requires two main factors.
One is being able to execute at least two but preferably three different escapes per position and being able to combine the two or three escapes to set up your opponent and escape.
This should be a priority in your training.
Set up a list of 3 escapes per position and master them as well as switching between them.
Incorporate them into isolation drills and master the timing involved while sparring.
I can't stress this enought to those who are just beginning BJJ and even as a reminder to those who have been training for a while.
You should focus a major part of your training on escaping positions.
Remember, If your opponent can't keep you in a bad position they will have a very hard time submitting you.
Happy holidays.
Being able to escape positions requires two main factors.
One is being able to execute at least two but preferably three different escapes per position and being able to combine the two or three escapes to set up your opponent and escape.
This should be a priority in your training.
Set up a list of 3 escapes per position and master them as well as switching between them.
Incorporate them into isolation drills and master the timing involved while sparring.
I can't stress this enought to those who are just beginning BJJ and even as a reminder to those who have been training for a while.
You should focus a major part of your training on escaping positions.
Remember, If your opponent can't keep you in a bad position they will have a very hard time submitting you.
Happy holidays.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
The 10 Things Every Grappler Should Know; Part 3
3) How to counter a submission:
Familiarizing yourself with all the fine details involved in a submission will also give you clues as to how to best counter those submissions and recognize the critical moments to counter.
It's important to have at least two counters to each submission mastered if you are to be able to counter effectively. You'll also want to have developed proper technical skill in the positions that will prevent your opponent from mounting an offense and submitting you.
The best time to counter your opponent's offense is by maintaining superior defense when in bad positions.
There are too many grapplers who focus their training on offense and forget that if they get caught in a bad position they'll need to have solid skills and timing to counter their opponents offense.
It's important to make a list of the bad positions you can find yourself in, like bottom side mount, bottom mount, turtle, bottom knee on stomach, etc,... and list the options you have for escaping or countering your opponents.
Then work to perfect your counters while isolating the techniques, have your opponent start from that position or let yourself get into that position while rolling.
This is the way you'll develop rock solid counters and become very difficult to submit.
Familiarizing yourself with all the fine details involved in a submission will also give you clues as to how to best counter those submissions and recognize the critical moments to counter.
It's important to have at least two counters to each submission mastered if you are to be able to counter effectively. You'll also want to have developed proper technical skill in the positions that will prevent your opponent from mounting an offense and submitting you.
The best time to counter your opponent's offense is by maintaining superior defense when in bad positions.
There are too many grapplers who focus their training on offense and forget that if they get caught in a bad position they'll need to have solid skills and timing to counter their opponents offense.
It's important to make a list of the bad positions you can find yourself in, like bottom side mount, bottom mount, turtle, bottom knee on stomach, etc,... and list the options you have for escaping or countering your opponents.
Then work to perfect your counters while isolating the techniques, have your opponent start from that position or let yourself get into that position while rolling.
This is the way you'll develop rock solid counters and become very difficult to submit.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
10 Things Every Grappler Should Know, Continued...
2) How to train to develop timing; Without this aspect in your training all the technical skill is worthless. The best way to develop timing is to train with a resisting opponent. The two best ways to implement this are through isolation drills, where you isolate a simple move or position like say the mount escape in BJJ and use all the techniques to escape the position with full resistance from your opponent, and through sparring with a fully resisting opponent.
Timing is easily one of the most important factors in being capable of using the techniques you know while sparring this way.
The two crucial elements involved in timing are;
the proper speed you execute the techniques with and developing a feel for the proper time to act so you don't telegraph what you are doing so your opponent is caught off guard. You'll want to train to execute the technique without overthinking it.
Pay close attention to these two elements while sparring and you'll start to see a huge difference in your ability to execute techniques.
I'll be back next week with some more...
Timing is easily one of the most important factors in being capable of using the techniques you know while sparring this way.
The two crucial elements involved in timing are;
the proper speed you execute the techniques with and developing a feel for the proper time to act so you don't telegraph what you are doing so your opponent is caught off guard. You'll want to train to execute the technique without overthinking it.
Pay close attention to these two elements while sparring and you'll start to see a huge difference in your ability to execute techniques.
I'll be back next week with some more...
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
10 Things Every Grappler Should Know...
All grappling arts and combat sports require more than just technique alone.
They require elements that enable the grappler to be truly functional and effective. If you're dedicated to practicing your grappling art, whether it's BJJ, Judo, or Wrestling, it's important to practice efficiently and effectively to get the most out of your training.
Over the next few weeks I'll be covering 10 critical elements that need to be understood and included in your training to get the most out of your grappling skills.
If you're relatively new to BJJ or Grappling, then you'll want to take notes on these next 10 posts, they will form a strong basis of your skills and help create a better understanding of your training.
They are not in particular order of importance as they all play a critical role in the development of your game.
1) This week let's discuss How to rely more on technique than on physical strength: Because relying on physical strength, will tire us out faster than if we rely on technique to maximize the use of leverage and momentum. The technical skills involved in grappling are designed around these two principles. It's important to always keep these two aspects in mind when learning and developing your technique.
So from now on develop the habit of paying close attention to how leverage and momentum play a vital role in your technical skills while training.
Next week I'll reveal some more...
They require elements that enable the grappler to be truly functional and effective. If you're dedicated to practicing your grappling art, whether it's BJJ, Judo, or Wrestling, it's important to practice efficiently and effectively to get the most out of your training.
Over the next few weeks I'll be covering 10 critical elements that need to be understood and included in your training to get the most out of your grappling skills.
If you're relatively new to BJJ or Grappling, then you'll want to take notes on these next 10 posts, they will form a strong basis of your skills and help create a better understanding of your training.
They are not in particular order of importance as they all play a critical role in the development of your game.
1) This week let's discuss How to rely more on technique than on physical strength: Because relying on physical strength, will tire us out faster than if we rely on technique to maximize the use of leverage and momentum. The technical skills involved in grappling are designed around these two principles. It's important to always keep these two aspects in mind when learning and developing your technique.
So from now on develop the habit of paying close attention to how leverage and momentum play a vital role in your technical skills while training.
Next week I'll reveal some more...
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Why Escapes Are So Important...
For the past few months we've been looking at some of the more common and useful escapes in Brazilian Jiujitsu.
This week I'd like to discuss the importance of escapes in your training.
When I first got into Brazilian Jiujitsu and Grappling many years ago, it was because of Mixed Martial Arts.
Like many others I was a stand up Striker and saw the value of grappling from the earlier UFC tournament shows back in 1993.
Back then submissions became all the rage and I can remember when people started teaching submissions at many martial arts schools as grappling.
This began my grappling training and although it took a little while before qualified Jiujitsu instructors started popping up everywhere, it taught me a very valuable lesson.
Which leads me to a concept that's very hard for most beginners to get.
Not that it's really complicated, it's actually quite simple, but because it goes against the simple strategy that most beginners think BJJ is about.
The "Grappling means submitting your opponent" strategy.
Most that begin Jiujitsu are quickly taught that position is everything.
This is very important but the value of escapes sometimes gets neglected.
Most beginners still get caught up in the "get the submission" mindset.
But some of the most important skills anyone starting in Brazilian Jiujitsu can develop are their escapes.
This is especially true for MMA training as well as BJJ.
When I first started thinking about strategy in my BJJ game, I did the same thing most do, I thought how can I submit my opponents as fast as possible.
This became the focus of my training.
And so I had to learn the hard way that developing a solid game in BJJ involves alot more than submissions and setting them up.
It involves controling the position and even more importantly escaping bad positions and regaining the advantageous position.
Once I figured this out I thought I had it ALL figured out...
But I was wrong.
There was something missing when I would try to actually escape a bad position.
Many times my more advanced opponents would be able to overwhelm and prevent my escaping and set up a submission.
You see, even though I knew how important this was and developed my escapes, there was still something missing.
I then watched the others who were successful at escaping carefully.
From watching them I quickly realized not only the importance of being able to escape but also that in order to effectively escape bad positions you need to focus on 2-3 different escapes, master them, and work at linking between the escapes to combine them and out think your opponents. The same approach can be applied to your submission game. Although mastering escapes should be higher on your priority list than mastering submissons and set ups.
The reason for this is simple.
If your opponents can out position you then your whole submission game won't come into play.
And if you train in for MMA than this is even more important.
Watch carefully at how many fights end because a fighter gets stuck in a position and is either stopped with strikes or submitted.
You'll quickly understand how important a role escapes play in Mixed Martial Arts.
So to recap;
-Pick 2-3 escapes from each position.
-Master the technical aspects of the escapes.
-Work your timing against an opponent while sparring.
-Put your escapes together in combinations to get comfortable at setting them up.
Watch your whole game improve as a result.
This week I'd like to discuss the importance of escapes in your training.
When I first got into Brazilian Jiujitsu and Grappling many years ago, it was because of Mixed Martial Arts.
Like many others I was a stand up Striker and saw the value of grappling from the earlier UFC tournament shows back in 1993.
Back then submissions became all the rage and I can remember when people started teaching submissions at many martial arts schools as grappling.
This began my grappling training and although it took a little while before qualified Jiujitsu instructors started popping up everywhere, it taught me a very valuable lesson.
Which leads me to a concept that's very hard for most beginners to get.
Not that it's really complicated, it's actually quite simple, but because it goes against the simple strategy that most beginners think BJJ is about.
The "Grappling means submitting your opponent" strategy.
Most that begin Jiujitsu are quickly taught that position is everything.
This is very important but the value of escapes sometimes gets neglected.
Most beginners still get caught up in the "get the submission" mindset.
But some of the most important skills anyone starting in Brazilian Jiujitsu can develop are their escapes.
This is especially true for MMA training as well as BJJ.
When I first started thinking about strategy in my BJJ game, I did the same thing most do, I thought how can I submit my opponents as fast as possible.
This became the focus of my training.
And so I had to learn the hard way that developing a solid game in BJJ involves alot more than submissions and setting them up.
It involves controling the position and even more importantly escaping bad positions and regaining the advantageous position.
Once I figured this out I thought I had it ALL figured out...
But I was wrong.
There was something missing when I would try to actually escape a bad position.
Many times my more advanced opponents would be able to overwhelm and prevent my escaping and set up a submission.
You see, even though I knew how important this was and developed my escapes, there was still something missing.
I then watched the others who were successful at escaping carefully.
From watching them I quickly realized not only the importance of being able to escape but also that in order to effectively escape bad positions you need to focus on 2-3 different escapes, master them, and work at linking between the escapes to combine them and out think your opponents. The same approach can be applied to your submission game. Although mastering escapes should be higher on your priority list than mastering submissons and set ups.
The reason for this is simple.
If your opponents can out position you then your whole submission game won't come into play.
And if you train in for MMA than this is even more important.
Watch carefully at how many fights end because a fighter gets stuck in a position and is either stopped with strikes or submitted.
You'll quickly understand how important a role escapes play in Mixed Martial Arts.
So to recap;
-Pick 2-3 escapes from each position.
-Master the technical aspects of the escapes.
-Work your timing against an opponent while sparring.
-Put your escapes together in combinations to get comfortable at setting them up.
Watch your whole game improve as a result.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Escaping The Half Guard
Getting caught in half guard can be very frustrating.
This week let's watch Daniel Morais' excellent half guard escapes and counters.
Next week I'll be wrapping up this feature on Escapes with a special article.
This week let's watch Daniel Morais' excellent half guard escapes and counters.
Next week I'll be wrapping up this feature on Escapes with a special article.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Escaping the Triangle To Footlock or Kneebar
This week let's watch veteran MMA fighter and grappler Erik Paulson demonstrate a nice escape and counter to the Triangle Choke.
It's important to not let your opponent control your head by pulling it down so that you can posture up and pull off this escape.
Erik goes into a couple of submissions once he's escaped.
Just click on the link to view.
It's important to not let your opponent control your head by pulling it down so that you can posture up and pull off this escape.
Erik goes into a couple of submissions once he's escaped.
Just click on the link to view.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Mount Escapes Continued.
This week we'll look at an interesting variation of the standard elbow escape for the Mount.
Just click on the link to view.
Just click on the link to view.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Mount Escapes; The Bridge and Roll
Probably the most crucial escapes to be mastered are the Mount escapes as this is a very bad position to be in especially in MMA.
You'll want to have at least 2 but preferably 3-4 Mount escapes mastered, that way you can combine and go through them so you can set your opponent up and escape.
This week we'll look at the most basic and critical mount escape; the Bridge and Roll.
This is usually the first Mount escape shown to White Belts but because it's so important I feel it should be mentioned and shown for the beginners.
If you're already able to execute the Bridge and Roll while sparring then definitely work on combining it with other Mount escapes to get more effective at setting it up.
Just click on the link to watch.
You'll want to have at least 2 but preferably 3-4 Mount escapes mastered, that way you can combine and go through them so you can set your opponent up and escape.
This week we'll look at the most basic and critical mount escape; the Bridge and Roll.
This is usually the first Mount escape shown to White Belts but because it's so important I feel it should be mentioned and shown for the beginners.
If you're already able to execute the Bridge and Roll while sparring then definitely work on combining it with other Mount escapes to get more effective at setting it up.
Just click on the link to watch.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Escapes Continued; Passing the Closed Guard
This week let's have a look at Daniel Morais demonstrating some technical details for passing the closed guard.
There is some excellent detail on how to prevent being rolled while standing.
Just click on the link to watch.
There is some excellent detail on how to prevent being rolled while standing.
Just click on the link to watch.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Escaping the Guillotine When Caught Attempting a Double Leg
This week let's check out a simple but effective counter to a Guillotine from an attempt at a double leg.
The Guillotine Choke is a very common counter to a double leg takedown attempt, although there are several simple takedowns that can still be executed when moving through the opponent, this is an excellent counter when caught and your opponent is leaning forward on you.
Working it until it's second nature will prove very effective when you're caught like this.
Like always just click on the link to watch the video.
The Guillotine Choke is a very common counter to a double leg takedown attempt, although there are several simple takedowns that can still be executed when moving through the opponent, this is an excellent counter when caught and your opponent is leaning forward on you.
Working it until it's second nature will prove very effective when you're caught like this.
Like always just click on the link to watch the video.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Escapes Continued: Side Control
This week we'll be continuing our look at escapes staying with escaping side control.
Watch this clip from Brazilian MMA and BJJ fighter Demian Maia, definitely one of the best and most technical MMA competitors out there today.
His video clearly outlines important details to escaping the side control.
As always just click on the link to watch.
Watch this clip from Brazilian MMA and BJJ fighter Demian Maia, definitely one of the best and most technical MMA competitors out there today.
His video clearly outlines important details to escaping the side control.
As always just click on the link to watch.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
The 100 Day BJJ Challenge, Are You Up To It?
Are You Ready For The 100 Day 2008 Brazilian Jiujitsu Challenge?
Right Now is the time to make 2008 the most productive year of training you’ve ever had.
I’ll give you the way to do it and also give you several great reasons to, it’s up to you though, to MAKE it happen!
Just register to receive the 100 day 2008 BJJ Challenge ebook for FREE.
In it are the keys to making 2008 the most productive year of training you’ve ever had.
As the year comes to an end, now is the time to seize this great opportunity to improve your skills.
Here’s what I’m offering you:
Just register to receive your copy of the 100 Day 2008 BJJ Challenge and I’ll send it to your email.
Read through it, put it to use in your training over the next 100 days then email back the questionnaire on how your skills have improved.
Then out of the best ones 4 will be picked to win a DVD prize pack valued at $120.
This is sure to set their training on fire for 2009.
Included in this prize package will be the first issue of the subscription only Audio book CD Advanced BJJ Strategies.
Here's just some of what will be covered on the CD:
-Details on how Olympic Athletes prepare for training.
-Advanced tactics you can apply to your training to make sure you are always improving.
-Advanced tips to apply to your training that will make a huge difference in your effectiveness.
That’s just a small taste of what will be on the premiere CD.
Here’s some of what you can expect from the 100 Day 2008 BJJ Challenge E-book:
-How to make sure every training session you have from now on is productive.
-How to make sure you are optimally recovering from your training.
-How to tailor your training to your body type.
-The best ways to get focused before training.
-What to do after training that ensures you won’t forget what you did in class.
-How to best identify your strengths and weaknesses and work to eliminate your weaknesses.
-How to make the most of your time spent training.
-How to make sure you accomplish your goals by the end of the 100 days.
As you can see the greatest benefit you’ll get from this challenge is the improvement you’ll make at the end of the 100 days.
So let’s get started to making 2008 your greatest training year ever!
REGISTER HERE
Right Now is the time to make 2008 the most productive year of training you’ve ever had.
I’ll give you the way to do it and also give you several great reasons to, it’s up to you though, to MAKE it happen!
Just register to receive the 100 day 2008 BJJ Challenge ebook for FREE.
In it are the keys to making 2008 the most productive year of training you’ve ever had.
As the year comes to an end, now is the time to seize this great opportunity to improve your skills.
Here’s what I’m offering you:
Just register to receive your copy of the 100 Day 2008 BJJ Challenge and I’ll send it to your email.
Read through it, put it to use in your training over the next 100 days then email back the questionnaire on how your skills have improved.
Then out of the best ones 4 will be picked to win a DVD prize pack valued at $120.
This is sure to set their training on fire for 2009.
Included in this prize package will be the first issue of the subscription only Audio book CD Advanced BJJ Strategies.
Here's just some of what will be covered on the CD:
-Details on how Olympic Athletes prepare for training.
-Advanced tactics you can apply to your training to make sure you are always improving.
-Advanced tips to apply to your training that will make a huge difference in your effectiveness.
That’s just a small taste of what will be on the premiere CD.
Here’s some of what you can expect from the 100 Day 2008 BJJ Challenge E-book:
-How to make sure every training session you have from now on is productive.
-How to make sure you are optimally recovering from your training.
-How to tailor your training to your body type.
-The best ways to get focused before training.
-What to do after training that ensures you won’t forget what you did in class.
-How to best identify your strengths and weaknesses and work to eliminate your weaknesses.
-How to make the most of your time spent training.
-How to make sure you accomplish your goals by the end of the 100 days.
As you can see the greatest benefit you’ll get from this challenge is the improvement you’ll make at the end of the 100 days.
So let’s get started to making 2008 your greatest training year ever!
REGISTER HERE
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Escaping Side Control continued.
Building on last weeks escape, this week we'll be looking at another escape from side control.
Pay careful attention to the fine details shown that make a huge difference in the performance of this technique.
Specifically the feet positioning and tips on proper arm placement.
We'll be looking at a side control escape featuring the bridge demonstrated by the phenomenal Marcelo Garcia.
Also be on the lookout for a special announcement I have that I will be making tomorrow.
It will feature a free gift to all my blog subscribers that want to take part.
I will also be giving some information on a new project I have almost completed, all those who want to take their Jiujitsu game to stellar levels will not want to miss out.
For now, just click on the link to view this great video.
Pay careful attention to the fine details shown that make a huge difference in the performance of this technique.
Specifically the feet positioning and tips on proper arm placement.
We'll be looking at a side control escape featuring the bridge demonstrated by the phenomenal Marcelo Garcia.
Also be on the lookout for a special announcement I have that I will be making tomorrow.
It will feature a free gift to all my blog subscribers that want to take part.
I will also be giving some information on a new project I have almost completed, all those who want to take their Jiujitsu game to stellar levels will not want to miss out.
For now, just click on the link to view this great video.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Escaping Side Control
This week we'll be looking at a simple escape from Side Control.
It's very important to note the hand and elbow placement, also make sure you perform it in one swift movement so as to not get mounted during the move.
You'll notice as he reaches for the mat he pauses as he's explaining, this is probably only due to the fact that he's explaining the move as he's doing it.
You'll want to make sure you're performing it as quick as possible straight through.
Main steps once you have your hands in place are:
-Bridge up and reach for the mat.
-Spin your hips downward
-Walk up to the control position.
Just click on the link to watch.
It's very important to note the hand and elbow placement, also make sure you perform it in one swift movement so as to not get mounted during the move.
You'll notice as he reaches for the mat he pauses as he's explaining, this is probably only due to the fact that he's explaining the move as he's doing it.
You'll want to make sure you're performing it as quick as possible straight through.
Main steps once you have your hands in place are:
-Bridge up and reach for the mat.
-Spin your hips downward
-Walk up to the control position.
Just click on the link to watch.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
The Top 10 Escapes Every Grappler Should Know!
Over the course of the next few weeks, I'll be covering a critical part of the BJJ game and that's escapes.
Whether you're into BJJ or MMA you can't afford to neglect this aspect of your training and performance.
We'll start off with number 10 although every one of these escapes can make up an important part of your game.
This is an escape from the back mount in which the most likely threat will be a rear choke, however, this isn't the only threat your opponent can place on you as he can always fake with the choke to set up an armbar as you escape.
Just click on the link above to watch the video.
Whether you're into BJJ or MMA you can't afford to neglect this aspect of your training and performance.
We'll start off with number 10 although every one of these escapes can make up an important part of your game.
This is an escape from the back mount in which the most likely threat will be a rear choke, however, this isn't the only threat your opponent can place on you as he can always fake with the choke to set up an armbar as you escape.
Just click on the link above to watch the video.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
BJJ Combinations
Once again I'd like to share an excellent video of Roy Dean displaying the power of combinations to set your opponent up.
There's actually alot you can learn here, just click on the link to watch the video.
There's actually alot you can learn here, just click on the link to watch the video.
Monday, August 4, 2008
My Annual Challenge.
Every year I set up a personal challenge for myself as a way to step up my training and take it to the next level.
Every year it revolves around a different aspect of training and lasts for up to a week.
One year, the concentration was on sparring to improve the timing and execution of my game.
Another year it was cardio, and another the concentration was on set-ups.
This year I've chosen conditioning, specifically explosive power.
I've devised a grueling set of workouts with my goal being to surpass my personal best.
How about you?
What area of your training would you like to improve?
What aspect of your game do you absolutely need to improve to get to the next level?
If you know in your heart that improving this aspect is absolutely necessary, then setting up your own personal challenge can help you get to that level.
I originally heard about this concept in the book, Living the Martial Way by Forrest E. Morgan.
It's origins trace back to ancient Japan where it was called Musha Shugyo.
Basically it was a warrior's personal quest to go off into the woods or deep into the mountains and embark on a personal challenge that would serve to improve his mental, physical and spiritual toughness.
It was meant to put one in touch with a deeper part of himself.
So ask yourself, what will your personal challenge be?
Are you willing to test yourself and take your training to the next level?
Set up the details of where you will train and get training partners together if you need to.
Record the experience or keep a personal log.
Then make the commitment to yourself and get to it.
I know that committing to a personal challenge every year has greatly benefitted both my training and my life.
Every year it revolves around a different aspect of training and lasts for up to a week.
One year, the concentration was on sparring to improve the timing and execution of my game.
Another year it was cardio, and another the concentration was on set-ups.
This year I've chosen conditioning, specifically explosive power.
I've devised a grueling set of workouts with my goal being to surpass my personal best.
How about you?
What area of your training would you like to improve?
What aspect of your game do you absolutely need to improve to get to the next level?
If you know in your heart that improving this aspect is absolutely necessary, then setting up your own personal challenge can help you get to that level.
I originally heard about this concept in the book, Living the Martial Way by Forrest E. Morgan.
It's origins trace back to ancient Japan where it was called Musha Shugyo.
Basically it was a warrior's personal quest to go off into the woods or deep into the mountains and embark on a personal challenge that would serve to improve his mental, physical and spiritual toughness.
It was meant to put one in touch with a deeper part of himself.
So ask yourself, what will your personal challenge be?
Are you willing to test yourself and take your training to the next level?
Set up the details of where you will train and get training partners together if you need to.
Record the experience or keep a personal log.
Then make the commitment to yourself and get to it.
I know that committing to a personal challenge every year has greatly benefitted both my training and my life.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
The Fundamentals of Brazilian Jiujitsu
Hi, I've been hard at work putting the finishing touches on my latest ebook called The Fundamentals of Brazilian Jiujitsu.
It's more of an outline of all the basics of BJJ.
It's also easily printable so it can be used as a notebook to help stay organized as you learn the basics and put them to use.
What's great is that I put it together in a way that helps form a bigger picture of the art and the options available from each position.
Now for the good news, it's FREE for all my subscribers.
As a part of my committment to helping my readers improve their game, I'll be giving out ebooks such as this periodically for FREE.
So keep an eye out in your email for your free copy. And let me know what you think at:
info@jiujitsuuniverse.com
It's more of an outline of all the basics of BJJ.
It's also easily printable so it can be used as a notebook to help stay organized as you learn the basics and put them to use.
What's great is that I put it together in a way that helps form a bigger picture of the art and the options available from each position.
Now for the good news, it's FREE for all my subscribers.
As a part of my committment to helping my readers improve their game, I'll be giving out ebooks such as this periodically for FREE.
So keep an eye out in your email for your free copy. And let me know what you think at:
info@jiujitsuuniverse.com
Friday, June 27, 2008
The Grappling Trifecta Part 4
The last factor involved in being functional as a grappler; Timing.
This is probably the least understood aspect especially for beginners.
There are even some who have been training for years who don't have a solid grasp of timing.
The best way to develop your timing?
Isolation drills.
Basically you need to isolate individual positions and the techniques from them.
How do you do this?
Do drills against a resisting partner where you work directly off a position.
Let's use the mount as an example. Here you have your opponent mount you, you attempt your escapes, (say, Bridge and roll or elbow escape) and your partner resists until you get it. Pay strict attention to the timing needed for the details of the move.
You then switch positions.
To make it more advanced once you get the hang of it, you do the same drill but have your partner try to submit as well as resist you while you're trying to escape.
You can do this with all the positions and your timing will improve.
The two most critical details involved are proper speed of movement and choosing the proper moment to execute the movement.
There you have it, work all three factors and your skills are guaranteed to improve.
I'll be back next week with something I've been working on for a while.
All I can say is that you'll be glad to be a subscriber!
This is probably the least understood aspect especially for beginners.
There are even some who have been training for years who don't have a solid grasp of timing.
The best way to develop your timing?
Isolation drills.
Basically you need to isolate individual positions and the techniques from them.
How do you do this?
Do drills against a resisting partner where you work directly off a position.
Let's use the mount as an example. Here you have your opponent mount you, you attempt your escapes, (say, Bridge and roll or elbow escape) and your partner resists until you get it. Pay strict attention to the timing needed for the details of the move.
You then switch positions.
To make it more advanced once you get the hang of it, you do the same drill but have your partner try to submit as well as resist you while you're trying to escape.
You can do this with all the positions and your timing will improve.
The two most critical details involved are proper speed of movement and choosing the proper moment to execute the movement.
There you have it, work all three factors and your skills are guaranteed to improve.
I'll be back next week with something I've been working on for a while.
All I can say is that you'll be glad to be a subscriber!
Friday, June 20, 2008
The Grappling Trifecta Part 3
Although it might seem obvious, conditioning is the second most critical aspect in order to be an effective grappler.
The thing with conditioning is that you either have it or you don't.
You can't push yourself far beyond your current level of conditioning when you're gassing out.
So if you don't have it then you'd better work at getting your conditioning level up.
That's the good news, you can always work at improving your conditioning.
It doesn't matter how good your skills are if you don't have the conditioning to consistently be able to pull them off.
The last thing you want is to be incredibly skilled yet not properly conditioned, and to gas out when you're dominating your opponent.
So work at perfecting your techniques, work on your conditioning regularly, either through grappling specific drills and calisthenics, and later this week I'll be discussing the final factor necessary to be effective and reach your highest potential in Jiujitsu.
The thing with conditioning is that you either have it or you don't.
You can't push yourself far beyond your current level of conditioning when you're gassing out.
So if you don't have it then you'd better work at getting your conditioning level up.
That's the good news, you can always work at improving your conditioning.
It doesn't matter how good your skills are if you don't have the conditioning to consistently be able to pull them off.
The last thing you want is to be incredibly skilled yet not properly conditioned, and to gas out when you're dominating your opponent.
So work at perfecting your techniques, work on your conditioning regularly, either through grappling specific drills and calisthenics, and later this week I'll be discussing the final factor necessary to be effective and reach your highest potential in Jiujitsu.
Monday, June 9, 2008
The Grappling Trifecta Part 2
The first and most obvious factor of the Grappling Trifecta is Technique.
This also encompasses strategy as well.
Technical proficiency is probably the most important factor but without the other two, a technical fighter still is not a complete and capable fighter.
Technical skill is mainly acquired through the proper learning and execution of a technique and repetition of the motion and details in order to ingrain them and be able to perform the technique as second nature.
Simply put your techniques need to be properly performed, well exceuted and repeated to the point where you can perform them without thinking about the details involved.
Next week we'll be looking at the second factor involved in the Grappling Trifecta.
This also encompasses strategy as well.
Technical proficiency is probably the most important factor but without the other two, a technical fighter still is not a complete and capable fighter.
Technical skill is mainly acquired through the proper learning and execution of a technique and repetition of the motion and details in order to ingrain them and be able to perform the technique as second nature.
Simply put your techniques need to be properly performed, well exceuted and repeated to the point where you can perform them without thinking about the details involved.
Next week we'll be looking at the second factor involved in the Grappling Trifecta.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
The Grappling "Trifecta"
Over the next few weeks I'll be discussing 3 aspects that are necessary to be fully functional and capable in Jiujitsu and as a grappler.
These 3 aspects are critical for you to be able to pull off your techniques while sparring as well as outthink your opponents.
If you remove any 1 of these 3 from the equation and no matter what techniques you know, you won't be able to use them in sparring, which in the end should be your goal. To be able to use your techniques while sparring.
If your not aware of the grappling "trifecta" you'll want to keep reading as this will help you make a giant leap forward in your training.
Later this week, I'll be covering the first one.
These 3 aspects are critical for you to be able to pull off your techniques while sparring as well as outthink your opponents.
If you remove any 1 of these 3 from the equation and no matter what techniques you know, you won't be able to use them in sparring, which in the end should be your goal. To be able to use your techniques while sparring.
If your not aware of the grappling "trifecta" you'll want to keep reading as this will help you make a giant leap forward in your training.
Later this week, I'll be covering the first one.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Triangle/Armlock Connection Continued.
This week I'm including this excellent video by Roy Dean.
He goes over more details concerning the Triangle/Armlock connection and how to use them in your training and sparring.
Check it out!
He goes over more details concerning the Triangle/Armlock connection and how to use them in your training and sparring.
Check it out!
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Examining The Armlock to Triangle Connection.
Let's look at the connection between the Armlock and the Triangle.
Because of the close positioning of these two submissions, practicing linking them together is a practical strategy.
We can see through this video, one good set up is to make your opponent feel the release of pressure which brings him up, and sets him up for the triangle.
Obviously, if as you are applying the Armlock from the Mount, your opponent starts to rise up, you can switch to the Triangle as well.
This can also be applied from the guard.
When you go to apply an Armlock on your opponent inside your guard and he counters by firmly grabbing his own arm and coming forward to stack you.
You let go of the arm that you were trying to lock while grabbing his opposite arm just underneath the tricep area with a no thumb grip.
Depending on your opponent, who may pull his arm that you were attempting to lock out, which would inadvertently help you. If not you can still Triangle him with it in place.
Pull his arm across your body bringing him close, while wrapping your leg that's on his neck around his head.
Close the Triangle with your other leg to set him up off of his counter.
Another option is using the same arm you were going to lock.
From the guard again you are executing an Armlock.
As your opponent counters and stacks you, slip your foot in as in the video, bring it across the back of his head, close the Triangle with your other leg and again you've transitioned from Armlock to Triangle.
Because of the close positioning of these two submissions, practicing linking them together is a practical strategy.
We can see through this video, one good set up is to make your opponent feel the release of pressure which brings him up, and sets him up for the triangle.
Obviously, if as you are applying the Armlock from the Mount, your opponent starts to rise up, you can switch to the Triangle as well.
This can also be applied from the guard.
When you go to apply an Armlock on your opponent inside your guard and he counters by firmly grabbing his own arm and coming forward to stack you.
You let go of the arm that you were trying to lock while grabbing his opposite arm just underneath the tricep area with a no thumb grip.
Depending on your opponent, who may pull his arm that you were attempting to lock out, which would inadvertently help you. If not you can still Triangle him with it in place.
Pull his arm across your body bringing him close, while wrapping your leg that's on his neck around his head.
Close the Triangle with your other leg to set him up off of his counter.
Another option is using the same arm you were going to lock.
From the guard again you are executing an Armlock.
As your opponent counters and stacks you, slip your foot in as in the video, bring it across the back of his head, close the Triangle with your other leg and again you've transitioned from Armlock to Triangle.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Omoplata Counter to Armlock Escape Part 2
Continuing from where we left off in the previous post. let's take a look at another Omoplata counter to an Armlock escape.
This time picture that the opponent being Armlocked (blue) has a split second of time and pushes Rodrigo's (white) lower leg, (the leg that's closer to Blue's abdomen) off and does a backward roll or scissors his legs and comes around the outside sideways to escape.
This is where white would keep the arm firmly held and bring his leg over the arm he's holding, in an Omoplata position while reaching over the lower back of blue to keep him from rolling.
As previously stated, to build a functional arsenal in Jiujitsu, it's always best to work combinations and counters off of related moves.
In the future we'll be looking at the Armbar to Triangle connection.
When training these submissions, see if you can find their correlation.
This time picture that the opponent being Armlocked (blue) has a split second of time and pushes Rodrigo's (white) lower leg, (the leg that's closer to Blue's abdomen) off and does a backward roll or scissors his legs and comes around the outside sideways to escape.
This is where white would keep the arm firmly held and bring his leg over the arm he's holding, in an Omoplata position while reaching over the lower back of blue to keep him from rolling.
As previously stated, to build a functional arsenal in Jiujitsu, it's always best to work combinations and counters off of related moves.
In the future we'll be looking at the Armbar to Triangle connection.
When training these submissions, see if you can find their correlation.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Omoplata Counter To Armlock Escape.
It's always a good idea to practice linking two techniques together. This way you will be able to perform combinations very fluidly and on the spur of the moment.
The Omoplata is the perfect counter to an Armlock Escape. So practicing linking an Armlock and, if the opponent escapes, flowing to an Omoplata works very effectively.
As we can see in this detailed video of the application stage of the armlock performed by Rodrigo Gracie. Imagine blue countering by pushing on white's leg that is closer to blue's head. Pushing the leg over his head.
Now blue rises up to escape and white continues the momentum spinning while passing his leg over blue's arm (that white should still be holding) while reaching over the lower back of blue to secure the Omoplata.
Next time we'll be looking at a different Armlock Escape and the Omoplata Counter.
The Omoplata is the perfect counter to an Armlock Escape. So practicing linking an Armlock and, if the opponent escapes, flowing to an Omoplata works very effectively.
As we can see in this detailed video of the application stage of the armlock performed by Rodrigo Gracie. Imagine blue countering by pushing on white's leg that is closer to blue's head. Pushing the leg over his head.
Now blue rises up to escape and white continues the momentum spinning while passing his leg over blue's arm (that white should still be holding) while reaching over the lower back of blue to secure the Omoplata.
Next time we'll be looking at a different Armlock Escape and the Omoplata Counter.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Basic Armlock Escape.
Let's take a look at this basic armlock escape shown here from Dave Camarillo.
Ok, now to be able to really perform well in Jiujitsu, you have to be able to think several moves ahead. Let's look at how we can immediately counter this basic armlock escape.
The Omoplata is the perfect counter to an armlock escape and there are several armlock escapes that it applies very well to.
If you watch carefully there is a spot where Mr. Camarillo (in white) has successfully begun to counter the armlock once his arms are properly placed and he has stacked his opponent.
It is at this precise spot that his opponent can choose to abandon his armlock and move into omoplata the timing has to be precise though.
As soon as he lets go of whites arm with his hands, he needs to grab the other arm and use his leg to force white to roll slightly forward to free up some space to get his hips out.
Once they have moved forward and blue's hips are out, he can reach over and grab white's belt or waist to prevent him from rolling forward.
He then secures the submission by leaning forward himself into his opponent, finalizing the submission.
Later on this week I'll be discussing more on the Omoplata countering an Armlock escape.
Ok, now to be able to really perform well in Jiujitsu, you have to be able to think several moves ahead. Let's look at how we can immediately counter this basic armlock escape.
The Omoplata is the perfect counter to an armlock escape and there are several armlock escapes that it applies very well to.
If you watch carefully there is a spot where Mr. Camarillo (in white) has successfully begun to counter the armlock once his arms are properly placed and he has stacked his opponent.
It is at this precise spot that his opponent can choose to abandon his armlock and move into omoplata the timing has to be precise though.
As soon as he lets go of whites arm with his hands, he needs to grab the other arm and use his leg to force white to roll slightly forward to free up some space to get his hips out.
Once they have moved forward and blue's hips are out, he can reach over and grab white's belt or waist to prevent him from rolling forward.
He then secures the submission by leaning forward himself into his opponent, finalizing the submission.
Later on this week I'll be discussing more on the Omoplata countering an Armlock escape.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Countering Your Instincts in Jiujitsu.
This might sound strange but being able to go against your instincts is a necessary part of becoming a capable grappler.
Jiujitsu itself was developed as an art that naturally applies itself against your opponents natural reactions.
The positions and the counters and submissions that come out of these positions were all designed to follow your opponents instinctive reactions and use them against him.
Mount anyone who has no experience and his initial response will be to push you off extending his arms and leaving them open to an armlock or to turn and give you his back exposing himself to a choke.
Get someone in a triangle choke and instinctively they will look down and bend forward moving further into the choke to avoid the pressure. To counter this technique they would need to do the opposite and go against their instincts by looking up and raising themselves away from the choke, but unless someone has practiced this they will never instinctively understand it.
This counter intuitive tactic can be used in your offense and defensive tactics.
Only through consistent practice can you develop the skills to counter your instincts and become more aware in your training.
Jiujitsu itself was developed as an art that naturally applies itself against your opponents natural reactions.
The positions and the counters and submissions that come out of these positions were all designed to follow your opponents instinctive reactions and use them against him.
Mount anyone who has no experience and his initial response will be to push you off extending his arms and leaving them open to an armlock or to turn and give you his back exposing himself to a choke.
Get someone in a triangle choke and instinctively they will look down and bend forward moving further into the choke to avoid the pressure. To counter this technique they would need to do the opposite and go against their instincts by looking up and raising themselves away from the choke, but unless someone has practiced this they will never instinctively understand it.
This counter intuitive tactic can be used in your offense and defensive tactics.
Only through consistent practice can you develop the skills to counter your instincts and become more aware in your training.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
The 2 Technique Principle.
The 2 Technique Principle is probably the fastest teaching method I've ever seen for beginners to become functional grapplers.
The teaching of 2 particularly relevant techniques at a time, along with a unique way of breaking down their application during sparring, always brings the benefits of:
-Quicker reaction time when needed.
-Proper choice of moves when they are called for.
-A beginning student becoming more functional with the few moves they've mastered as opposed to being overwhelmed.
-Better usage of actual technique and better timing in execution.
Instructors who use this method always find their classes are more productive and students retain the lessons better and can actually USE the material ALOT faster.
This makes for more satisfied students too as they enjoy their training more when they see faster, more consistent progress.
Due to the demand I've been receiving by those who have been exposed to this approach, I'm in the process of putting together a DVD that shows the 2 Technique principle in action. It's been shown to take total beginners with a month of training to where grapplers who have been training for a year are, in 2 months!
I'll be going more in depth on this approach in the coming weeks.
The teaching of 2 particularly relevant techniques at a time, along with a unique way of breaking down their application during sparring, always brings the benefits of:
-Quicker reaction time when needed.
-Proper choice of moves when they are called for.
-A beginning student becoming more functional with the few moves they've mastered as opposed to being overwhelmed.
-Better usage of actual technique and better timing in execution.
Instructors who use this method always find their classes are more productive and students retain the lessons better and can actually USE the material ALOT faster.
This makes for more satisfied students too as they enjoy their training more when they see faster, more consistent progress.
Due to the demand I've been receiving by those who have been exposed to this approach, I'm in the process of putting together a DVD that shows the 2 Technique principle in action. It's been shown to take total beginners with a month of training to where grapplers who have been training for a year are, in 2 months!
I'll be going more in depth on this approach in the coming weeks.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Just a Quick Message...
Well actually a quote I'd like to share that I think about often before I train.
"You only advance when you push past your comfort level."
Think about this carefully.
Do you think it's possible to take your Jiujitsu skills to a higher level if you don't push past what you're comfortable with?
Do you think it's possible to improve ANY skill without pushing past what your comfortable with?
I'm not talking about taking a huge leap past what your comfortable with because in Jiujitsu that could end up being dangerous and could get you injured.
What I'm talking about are subtle small increments of pushing past what you regularly do.
It's a good habit to get into thinking about this everytime you go train.
It's also a good idea to write this quote down somewhere you'll see it before training. It could be in your car on your way to training, or like me you can write it on your Gi!
"You only advance when you push past your comfort level."
Think about this carefully.
Do you think it's possible to take your Jiujitsu skills to a higher level if you don't push past what you're comfortable with?
Do you think it's possible to improve ANY skill without pushing past what your comfortable with?
I'm not talking about taking a huge leap past what your comfortable with because in Jiujitsu that could end up being dangerous and could get you injured.
What I'm talking about are subtle small increments of pushing past what you regularly do.
It's a good habit to get into thinking about this everytime you go train.
It's also a good idea to write this quote down somewhere you'll see it before training. It could be in your car on your way to training, or like me you can write it on your Gi!
Monday, April 7, 2008
A Great Basic Reversal.
Here is a great basic reversal from the Guard that can be used in what I like to call a Fork. A Fork is a move that can set up a second move if the opponent successfully resists your move.
The way to set it up off this reversal is if the opponent manages to get his arm back as you are trapping it by his tricep. Imagine he gets it free and posts it on the ground creating a base so you can't reverse him.
Now you can use his resistance to set up a Kimura from the Guard.
The hand you have on the ground will grab his wrist on his basing hand and your hand that is on his tricep will continue around his tricep and grab your own wrist to finish the kimura.
Basically you will go from the move above and if it's countered will continue on to the move below.
The Path To The Black Belt; All I Can Say Is WOW!
Well actually I can and should say ALOT more.
I recently finished reading through this book written by Rodrigo Gracie and Kid Peligro. I think I'll be wearing this copy out in no time as I can see myself returning to it over and over again.
Basically this is an overview of everything that is taught on the way to Black belt.
The great thing about it is that not only techniques are covered but many different topics like how to protect yourself during training and prevent injuries. How to train correctly. Preparing strategy. Learning and retaining single techniques
and even how to select the best techniques for you, on top of all the techniques and drills.
This book makes for THE training manual to own to supplement your training and help keep you focused.
The sections on solo and partner drills are the most complete I've ever seen.
The details provided in the tips on positions and submissions are the most detailed I've seen in a book showing many examples of incorrect ways to apply the techniques as well as the correct ones and clearly explaining the reasons for the subtle differences.
Although no book is a substitute for an instructor, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: The Path to the Black Belt
is the first book that I would recommend as a supplement to training.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Get Ready For A Wild Ride!
This blog will feature tons of information on the techniques and strategies used in Jiujitsu. Feel free to subscribe to receive the blog through email. There will be video footage, as well as features on Gi and No Gi techniques.
I'm working hard to make Jiujitsu Universe THE place for grappling info on the net. Check back often as new info will go up almost daily.
I'm working hard to make Jiujitsu Universe THE place for grappling info on the net. Check back often as new info will go up almost daily.
Monday, March 31, 2008
The Essence Of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu; Rigan Machado
This weeks review features Rigan Machado's book The Essence of Brazilian Jiujitsu.
Rigan begins the book with a question and answer segment that brilliantly addresses several important topics such as Gi vs. No Gi training, as well as the different approaches involved.
An interesting key point that's brought up is the distinction betwen controlling entire regions of your opponents body without the gi whereas with the gi you nee to control specific points.
His philosophy concerning trining for sport and self defense is discussed as well.
The second chapter goes into discussing various armlocks from basics to more advanced.
He does an excellent job of breaking them down and showing the specific etails involved.
The basic armlocks from the guard, cross side and mount are covered as well as standing armlocks and the Flying armbar.
Chapter three looks at Leg Locks.
Again a look at the basics but there are even a few rare leg locks thrown in as well as some positional variations of the knee bar from outside in, inside out, the half guard and north south. Very interesting and rare setups for a foot lock from inside the guard and even from bottom mount are featured as well.
An array of heel hooks and their setups are shown as well.
The chapter ends off with more advanced takedowns directly to knee bars.
Chapter four takes on the topic of Chokes.
It starts off with some details on subtleties involved and then goes right into the techniques like the previous chapters.
Although the majority of the chokes demonstated are with the gi, there are still quite a few no gi chokes shown like the basics, the rear naked choke, the triangle, as well as the rear triangle.If you are looking for gi chokes though, then this book is a great resource. Covering all the necessary gi chokes including the clock choke.
Chapter 5 is my personal favorite chapter as it is dedicated to No Gi techniques.
That is Techniques that are specifically adapted for applying to an opponent who's not wearing a gi.
This chapter looks at a variety of techniques; chokes, leg and arm locks.
Specific details on setting up and controling the opponent without the gi are given and again the photo sequences are excellently depicted.
Overall this book serves as a great resource for anyone who already trains in Jiujitsu and grappling and wants to have a visual training aid to remember key points of different moves. Beginners looking for a good introduction to grappling and those just looking to check it out will also find this book very useful.
More advanced practitioners won't learn anything new here but will find it useful as a reference manual and reminder of the key points of submission.
The only real lacking point is that the key points involved in positions aren't covered in greater detail.
Other than that this book is still highly recommended for the purposes listed above.
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