The New And Improved BJJ Arm Triangle Choke By Neil Melanson

The defining symbol of Brazilian Jiu–Jitsu is often the triangle. For the Gracie Barra logo glorifying it, to lots and lots of logos of different academies, the triangle is the go-to BJJ symbol. There’s a good reason for it too- there are plenty of triangle choke variations that we use in Jiu–Jitsu. You can perform triangle chokes with the arms, legs, and perhaps even a combination of both. Out of the mall, the BJJ arm triangle remains my favorite option. It has been a while though since someone has introduced some variation in this department. Luckily, the wait is now over.

Neil Melanson is the person to follow if you like to submit people in cruel and unusual ways. the catch-wrestler / Sambo / Judo expert turned BJJ black belt has a very unusual and very submission-heavy game. He is also one of the top coaches out there and is not afraid to challenge all the BJJ dogmas and absolutes. Given that he has decades of grappling experience, everything he says has a lot of merit to it. A great example is his “upgrade” of the BJJ Arm Triangle choke that we’re so used to doing.

The BJJ Arm Triangle Choke

BJJ Arm Triangle Choke This choke does have its origins somewhere in Judo, among the Kata Gatame series. It is a choke many people turn to very early on, as it seems simple enough. Conversely, most people end up finishing the move by using strength and power. However, that can only take you up to blue, or perhaps purple belt level. From there on, you need to understand the choke and the fine details to really make it work. An there are plenty of details behind this highly effective Jiu–Jitsu strangle hold.

The BJJ Arm Triangle works like any other triangle choke. It utilizes the opponent’s own shoulder on one side, and the biceps for your arm on the other side of the neck. The moment most people miss is actually forcing the shoulder into the carotid artery on the near side. here’s the key hack for this – forget about pushing with your neck, or squeezing. Instead, look up slightly, aiming to push the shoulder into the neck with your collar bones. This makes the choke infinitely tighter and much harder to get out of. In fact, it renders the “answering the telephone” defense completely useless.

Furthermore, there are ways you can make yourself really heavy from the finishing position while preventing an opponent from any chance of escaping. All you need to do is lie at a slight angle to your opponent (focusing on pushing with the collarbone will determine the best one for you). Once you have it, make sure your legs are bent at the knees. Your feet should be dangling in the air, in fact. This makes you project weight into the shoulder to finish the move while making it notoriously difficult for anyone to try and force you into half-guard.

Finally, always try to finish the BJJ Arm Triangle Choke with one hand. Only when things get messy, should you introduce the other hand into the mix.

The Neil Melanson BJJ Arm Triangle Upgrade

So, what is it the Neil does differently that makes his triangle even tighter? Well, for one, he figured out a way to hide the head. The collar bone in the shoulder thing works extremely well, but has a flaw- people might try and manipulate your head. Neil figured out a way to use the head to push on the shoulder from a different angle, making the BJJ Arm Triangle choke even tighter.

The first thing he does is change the angle of the arm. He places the forearm of the choking arm underneath the back of the opponent. This is something you should do while transitioning into the choke. The goal is to have your palm under the shoulder blades, rather than under the neck of the opponent. This not only makes everything tighter. but also ensures you won’t need the other arm to finish.

The arm position is actually a prerequisite for the head placement that makes the choke much tighter. Melanson figured out that you should place pressure on the rear delt muscle of the shoulder in order to force it into the carotid artery in a very effective manner. To achieve this, the forehead goes on the ground, so that your head can get behind the rear delt and push the shoulder in.

Finally, in order to finish, the configuration of the body is somewhat different from just lying beside your opponent. In a more dynamic type of control, Neil advocates a wide base, with the knee on the near side leg propped up against their hip. this really kills any motion an opponent might have left. Finally, for the finish, Neil posts the free arm wide, to help him push the shoulder even more. A simple flex of the biceps of the choking arm will put everyone you have in this BJJ arm triangle variation to sleep.

Getting To The Arm Triangle

Getting to the Arm Triangle position can often be the trickiest part of the puzzle. There are several positions that you can use to enter with a high percentage of success, and you should stick to them. However, whenever you see an opening make sure you go for it as long as you can achieve one main thing – create pressure early. That means that once you get the arm in place you should already be exerting pressure on the opponent, even though the BJJ Arm Triangle is far from ready.

Side control is the position that you should use to set up most of your BJJ Arm Triangle chokes. It makes a lot of sense tactically as you’re already in position, and all you need is to thread the arm in. If you go for the Arm Triangle from mount or half guard, you can also be successful. However, to finish, you’ll need to get to the side. That means abandoning mount (which is usually not a great idea) or passing half guard (which is usually not easy).

Finally, consider the BJJ Arm Triangle a backup option for situations when you end up losing back control. Instead of just looking for a mount, guiding someone in the Arm Triangle is a much better option, mostly because you already have it set up on the underhook side.

In Summary

The BJJ Arm Triangle choke was due to some innovation. It is not that the previous version did not work. In fact, versions work, from the early muscle-based finishes to the collar bone push, and now the latest Neil Melanson variation. The trick is figuring out the one that works for you. Of course, this upgraded version is a really tight one that offers a lot of places for experimenting and customization to fit your own needs.

BJJ Headlock Escapes For Every Situation

BJJ Ezekiel Choke: A Powerful Arm-In Variation

BJJ Headlock Escapes For Every Situation

BJJ World

Unless you’re training in a Gracie Barra gym, or a self-defense oriented BJJ gym, you most likely do not pay a lot of attention to headlocks. Or, should I say, headlock escapes. That’s not a good idea./ The moment a high-level Judoka walks through the door and gets to a scarf hold (and they will) you’ll instantly regret not having BJJ headlock escapes in your arsenal. They’re not just there for self-defense reasons, but actually have a large application in Jiu-Jitsu, both on the ground, and standing.

Headlocks in BJJ are not a go-to position. The above example of a Judo scarf hold (aka Kesa Gatame) is probably the most widely used headlock variation in the sport. Or is it? When it comes to intentionally looking for BJJ headlocks, the scarf hold tops the list. But, what happens when we’re wrestling on our feet, or dealing with the turtle, or even trying to pass the guard? In most of these situations, albeit unintentionally, we do use a lot of headlock variations. Conversely, headlock escapes are a must if we want to avoid scrambles, and most of those Guillotine choke taps.

The Ultimate Playground Fight Position

Headlocks are a position that comes naturally to people. If you take a look at playground fights, kids usually go for it without even knowing what they’re doing. If 90% of fights end up on the ground (I completely made up that number), then 99% of them involve a headlock of some kind. This is as true for adults as it is for kids, and is just as true for the streets as it is on playgrounds.

Headlocks come in all shapes and sizes, and as such, are based on one basic human instinct – control someone’s head. Since we imitate a lot of movement and momentum with our necks, we instinctually like to control someone’s head when we’re in a fight, be it a street fight or a combat sports match. Of course, with trained people, getting to a headlock is difficult and achieving something with one, even more so However, when trained people start using headlocks, it doesn’t matter how much grappling, or any martial art you know. If you do not have headlock escapes ready to sue, you’ll not just end up on the ground, but suffer along the way as well.

That said, BJJ headlock options go further than most other sports. Front headlocks (like those in wrestling), side headlocks (think Judo), standing headlocks( think Blood Sport), and even rear headlocks are a part of the game. Moreover, they are not just available both standing and on the ground, but also with and without a Gi. In all honesty, a headlock won’t offer too much offense, depending on the variation, given that usually both arms are involved. However, it will pin you and restrict your movement. In certain situations, like front headlocks, they’ll also open up chokes as well.

Standing BJJ Headlock Escapes

On the subject of BJJ headlock escapes, let’s start standing. It is not as much a thing of self-defense, although we’ll cover one such version, bot more of dealing with headlocks when they arise as a result of the standing grip fighting game that we all use to set up takedowns. In that sense, standing BJJ headlock escapes are not just useful, but mandatory.

For starters, the most recognizable standing side headlock defense. Why do you need it? Simple – try using a duck under entry to a rear body lock takedown, and you’ll immediately notice why. Some takedown exchanges, although more than worth the risk, will place you in a difficult spot, like a side headlock for example. The solution here is not difficult, though: look towards your opponent’s torso (to ease pressure on the neck), hug their waist with one arm, place the other arm behind their knee. You can now finish the rear body lock with a block finish, ending up on top, and even getting a shot at an armbar.

The front headlock is another position you’ll often end up in, whether it is BJJ or MMA, and even in self-defense scenarios. While this one can be taken directly to the ground, three’s also a way to deal with it early, while you’re still standing. The key thing is to create distance, by placing one arm on the opponent’s hip. Make it a point to use stiff-arm so that you get a frame. The frame will stop all attacks whether it is takedowns or a Guillotine choke, and allow you to create enough space to pull on the head locking arm and get your head free.

Headlock Escapes On The Ground

BJJ headlock scape options on the ground are available in more varieties, given the heavy focus of the sport on ground fighting. The front headlock makes an appearance here, mostly from the turtle position, as it is different in comparison to the standing front headlock escape. And the movement used is something you’ve been doing for ages in BJJ warm-ups and as part of drills. It is the wrestling sit-out. The movement involves holding the head locking arm with both your arms, and exploding into a sit out, that you then use to switch direction and get the back, or spin out and get a front headlock of your own.

Headlocks on the ground, apart from the front headlock have to do with the Kesa Gatame or scarf hold position most of the time. Escaping from there will require you to have more than one option, though, given how widespread the use of this position is. One simplest option is rolling the top person over like they do in Judo. The trick is in trapping their arm (which you do by gluing the back of your head to the mats), and in bridging. For the bridge, you want to lift up both your hips and shoulders, so that only your head and feet touch the ground. A body lock grip ensures you have a sufficient connection to roll your partner over and acquire a top position.

Another opportunity would be going to the back. This happens when an opponent is holding you down tightly, not allowing you to frame the head. The key moment is getting the elbow of the arm trapped in between you, to the ground. Once that happens, you’ll be able to move your hips, get a hook over their hip and start transitioning towards the back. In most cases, you’ll get mount instead, but that just opens up a direct route to the armbar, give the arm positioning, so why not?

Closing Arguments

BJJ headlock escapes are something that is undertrained but comes in more than useful in both sports and real lie situations. It is not just prudent to know how to defend headlocks for the needs of Jiu-Jitsu. The principles work perfectly if you apply them the other way around, in holding headlocks, and preventing people from escaping, or knowing when to transition. Simply put, have fun with headlocks, and at least master how to avoid and counter the front headlock, if you’re not going to go deeper into that area. You’ll thank me one day.

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How To Get Good At BJJ: Don’t Do These 8 Things!

BJJ World

Why do you train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? Regardless of the finer individual goals and aspirations, everyone trains to get better. Nobody wants to be a white belt forever, or barely progress in the sport. On the contrary, everyone wants a World title, a black belt in record time, and to be able to tap everyone while never tapping out. The black belt, (although not in record time) is the most realistic expectation out of those three for most people. To get that, you need to become good at doing Jiu-Jitsu. So, how do you get good at BJJ? The answer is in the things you should avoid doing, rather than those you should do.

Too many times we try to figure out what to do to become better, for who to emulate in order to find a shortcut or two. Similar to all other aspects of life, this does not work in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Why not think outside the box, or, in this case, completely in reverse? How about the things we should not do? The thought process here is that removing the obstacles to getting good at something, will immediately help you get better at it, won’t it? So, the answer to the question of how to get good at BJJ lies in what not to do.

How To Get Good At BJJ?

Just show up, right? Well, it is not quite that simple. Simply being present in a BJJ academy will help you learn a thing or two, but definitely not get good at Jiu-Jitsu. Of course, people that come in to train usually do not spend most of their time, not training, like they do in commercial fitness gyms. The nature of grappling makes it hard for you to be on your phone, given that there’s a partner counting on your attention and cooperation.

And still, people will figure out incredibly creative ways of slacking through what they don’t like, even if it comes at the cost of them getting good at BJJ. Whether it is skipping warm-up, slacking through drills, skipping rounds at the open mat, or a bunch of other things, looking for shortcuts is in human nature. Well, guess what? Those that actually do make it to World Champion level, and get to tap out most people while rarely tapping out themselves, are the ones that do not look for shortcuts, but rather, the longer and harder road.

There’s no magic formula on how to get good at BJJ. Hard work comes first, and removing all obstacles to your progress is second. However, plateaus and outside factors are not the obstacles you need to be looking to remove. It is those things that keep you in your comfort zone, with at least one foot, that is holding your progress back in most cases. Figure out what the best of the best are not doing on the mats, and replicate that, instead of trying to eat porridge with the exact same recipe Gordon Ryan does, or do the drills the Mendes brothers do.

8 Things to Avoid Doing In BJJ Training

There are far more than 8 things that can hold your progress in Jiu-Jitsu back. However, the list below features the things I’ve seen scamper people’s success and potential over the years on more than one occasion. In simple terms, do your own thing, be all-in when on the mats and try not to look for the easy way out. When the time comes to face that hard way out, and in BJJ, it most certainly will, shortcuts just won’t cut it. This is how to get good at BJJ by not doing certain things:

Slacking

How many times have you slacked through the warm-up, or skipped a rep or two (or ten) when drilling? We are all guilty of this, but it does take a huge roll in our BJJ progress. Simply put, when you’re on the mats, you might as well do everything that’s big asked of you. After all, instructors put together classes with the goal of helping you achieve something. All the drills and exercises and techniques are not just random stuff from their brain. The next time you feel like not drilling or warming up, instead of slacking, do one more rep of everything than anyone else in the gym. That is how BJJ World Champions think.

Seeking Instant Gratification

This is pretty much something that is universally true for martial arts, but in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu it takes on a whole different meaning. I often say to people that if they’re looking to learn something during a single class, they’re in the wrong gym. I believe that to be true of all Jiu-Jitsu academies. Learning BJJ is a lifelong process, and you’ll see results and progress spike up down the road, regardless of how much effort you put in at the moment.

Learn about delayed gratification, and enjoying the fruits of your labor in the future rather than instantly. This is one o the great secrets of how to get good at BJJ.

Avoiding Going In Bad Positions

Suffer, suffer, and then suffer some more. IF you wonder how to get good at BJJ, there’s no better way than to tap. Even if you’re miles better than someone you should not just look to dominate people, but rather go into bad spots and try to figure ways out. You’ll get crushed, smashed, tapped out, and all associated uncomfortable things. So what?

IF you want to learn Jiu-Jitsu, you have to get comfortable everywhere. You won’t be winning all the time, and even more importantly, you need to understand how to turn a bad situation into a good one for you. That will only happen if you go deep into deep waters and battle the sharks.

Being A Lousy Teammate

I can’t restress this point enough. In my academy, you won’t get promoted if your attitude toward people on the mat (and off them) is disrespectful and condescending. You can be as technically gifted as Marcelo Garcia, but if you’re a lousy teammate, your progress will suffer. And it is not just about belts, you won’t get better at BJJ by making fun of teammates or belittling them, even if you’re better than them. there’s always someone better than you, and you wouldn’t want to be in a situation like that. one of the most important aspects of how to get good at BJJ is not being a dou#$&ag and treating people with due respect. It is astonishing how much you can learn from everyone if you just listen to them.

Not Accepting Advice

Another big no-no is being too confident that the way you’re doing things is the only way, and not accepting advice and feedback from people, And yes, that includes lower belts! There’s no ego in BJJ, right? Well, that doesn’t just refer to the ego in rolling, but in every aspect of the sport. Not every piece of advice will improve your game, but Developing the ability to take other people’s opinions into consideration is a huge step in getting really got at Jiu-Jitsu.

Leave Class Early Or Arrive Late

Something that really gets on my nerves, and I know every other instructor will agree is people coming in late for class or leaving early. Exceptions are, of course, not an issue, since we’re not running military academies here. However, doing stuff like these disrupts the flow of the class, the instructor’s denominations, and takes away from everyone’s attention. In other words, it is not just you getting a piece of this information instead of the whole picture, but also everyone else. As far as how to get good at BJJ goes, being punctual and staying for the entire class, not skipping anything, from rolling rounds to cooldown stretches is very important to your progress.

Getting Technically Overwhelmed

If you’re trying to learn everything from every possible Danaher DVD at the same time, you’ll never be able to figure out even the simplest things. It doesn’t have to be DVD’s it can be YouTube videos, Instagram videos, or even stuff you’re learning in class. Here’s just no way you can work on guard passing, back takes, sweeps, submissions, and takedowns at the same time/ You’ll just do bits and pieces of everything and see no progress at all. Instead, focus on one subject, the narrower it is, the better, and go research it and experiment with it for months. Once you feel confident you have an understanding you can go for something else and repeat the process.

This is what the very best grapplers in the world do. there simply is no way to learn different aspects of Jiu-jitsu all crammed together. Divide and conquer!

Not Listening To Your Body

Probably one of the most important aspects of getting good at BJJ. If you can’t go to train because your body isn’t allowing you to, nothing of the above really matters. Why is this point last on our list then? Because of its importance! IF you are too tired, haven’t eaten right, slept too little, or are dehydrated, you won’t be able to perform.. this refers to both physical and mental performance.

The one caveat of how to get good at BJJ that you can’t skip is taking care of your body, and most importantly, listening to it. If you’re not feeling like you can train productively, stay at home! Beter miss out on one training session then get injured and be sidelined for two months.

Closing Arguments

How do you get good at BJJ? Don’t look at what other people are doing, but rather at what they’re not. Learn from other people’s mistakes rather than their successes. It just so happens that everyone’s paths are different when it comes to the approach they take, but mistakes, especially in BJJ, are universal for most. Give yourself every chance of progress and remove every obstacle in your way. Only then can your own goals and aspirations come into play and help you achieve the progress you’re after.

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Teaching BJJ Full Time: Living the Dream Or Just Another Job?

BJJ World

Would you like to do Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as your full-time job? It would be a dream come true, won’t it? Well, that depends, if we’re being honest. Training Jiu-Jitsu is fun and represents a way to shut everything else that’s happening in your life out. The best form of therapy is mat therapy, However, the moment that your hobby turns into your job, things quickly take on another perspective. While the prospect of teaching BJJ full time might sound extremely appealing, you should be ready for what it really means and requires, if you are to truly enjoy it.

Teaching BJJ is not an easy task. Believe me, I am doing it every day, almost all day long. Jiu-Jitsu is highly addictive and will quickly engulf your life when you start training. However, can you really keep all the “magic” alive when and if you decide to make it a full-time career rather than just a thing you enjoy doing in the afternoons? One thing I will tell you if you’re truly passionate about BJJ is to go for it! It will pay off, and might even turn out to be the dream job you’ve always wanted. But, be warned, BJJ as a job, and BJJ as a hobby are two completely different universes, meaning you need to manage your expectations accordingly.

Teaching BJJ Full Time: The Dream Job?

For most people in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, getting to do it as a profession would be a dream come true. I was one of those e people once. To an extent, the notion that teaching BJJ is an enjoyment is true. However, the moment Jiu-Jitsu becomes a job, other variables come into play which you didn’t have to consider when you were just training or teaching for the fun of it.

First of all, unless you have the ability to do BJJ as a job and have a second job as well, then your sole source of income, or at least that major one, will be teaching. That means that just as with every other job, you get all the worries that come with working. Those range between psychological, financial, and in terms of a job in sports, physical aspects. And that is before you even consider all the craziness that comes with running an academy if you have the role of an owner in addition to that of a coach.

All things considered, training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for a leaving is most definitely a dream job. You get to roll every day, all day, you get to do morning, afternoon, and evening classes, train with people of all levels, do privets, lead drill and competition classes… In the meantime, you can spend all your time looking at BJJ videos and reading articles since that is a requirement to become better at your job. Sounds too good to be true, and to a certain extent, it is. It all comes down to what you expect to get out of teaching BJJ as a full-time job.

Pros and Cons Of Running A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy

If you have your own academy, then you’re in for quite a crazy ride. I’m not even going to mention the Covid-19 epidemic, which saw too many academies close their doors permanently, and even some of the biggest one struggle. that’s one of those unpredictable things that you can’t really account for in advance.

What you should know is that running an academy means you spend maybe a third of your time inside the actual academy Yeah, you read that right. In between administrative duties, chores, supply runs, community meetings, and everything else you can and can’t think of, you won’t spend as much time on the mats worry-free as you might’ve thought. That is reality. Moreover, you can expect o take a lot of the work home too, with planning classes, taking care of finances, talking to students, coordinating stuff, working out tournament road trips… the list goes on and on.

Let’s take a look at three of the most important aspects of running your own business, especially a sports-based one:

The Financial Side Of Things

First of all, teaching BJJ is not going to be a gold mine, and especially not at first. As with any other business, there is a potential to grow and make it worth your while, but it won’t happen overnight and you have to be aware of that. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is not a “get rich quick” type of scheme. In fact, I doubt it can help you get rich at any speed.

If you are an owner, you’ll have a bunch of financial stuff hanging over your head: leases, monthly fees, administrative taxes, supplies, and a host of other expenses to balance. The upside of being an owner and teacher is that you will make more money compared to teaching at an academy somebody else owns.

That said, teaching BJ jat an academy works the opposite way. You’ll only have classes to worry about, but there’s hardly an option for you to earn more money, regardless of time spent teaching. It all depends on the size and business plan of the academy and is something you should consider if a more lavish lifestyle is what you’re after.

The Psychological Side Of Things

One of the things I noticed when I made the transition to teaching BJJ was how it affected my mindset. I still love BJJ more than anything else, but I definitely see it differently from when I was just training. Having just trained, then worked at an academy for a salary, and finally, owning and running an academy, I can talk about everything that happens along the way.

One thing you can bet on is that your Jiu-Jitsu game will develop and grow immensely. Spending all your time on the mats, putting classes together, answering questions, rolling, and drilling every day is a recipe for success. That said, you won’t look at training with the same crazy enthusiasm and joy you did when you were just a student. At least not every day, especially if you run multiple different groups per day.

Another thing is the tradeoff between the academy being your escape from the rest of your daily obligations, including a job, to the academy being your job. it can’t be both, so expecting it to still be a place where you can forget about everything is setting yourself up to fail.

Also on the tradeoff side of things is the time you spend with people on your team. While it is always good to get to know your students really well, sometimes, it may start to interfere with running an academy. Remember, you’re the person charging fees, now, reminding people of hygiene, and having to do the “tough talks” with folks. Teaching BJJ is not all sunshine and rainbows.

The Physical Side Of things (Train Fitness Is A Byproduct)

On the physical side of things, teaching BJJ full time means you probably won’t have to worry about fitness… ever again. As somebody who has been elbow-deep in strength and conditioning books and videos for the past 15 years, I can tell you that running an academy full time doesn’t leave much space and time to train other things. However, I can also say that I’ve never been I better shape even trying it. The fact of the matter is, if you are teaching BJJ full time, you’ll be fit and in great shape. If you’re also a competitor, this makes it very easy to maintain weight as well.

The con here is that your body will have to endure extra “mileage” every week. You will have to factor this in because if you get injured, and have to spend time off the mats, it is not just BJJ now, it is your livelihood that’s on the line. Given how fragile our bodies are in relation to the rigors of grappling, this rally does raise the stakes on every roll you do on the mats.

All In All

Teaching BJJ is awesome, and at 35 years old, it is as near to a dream job as it can come. At least for me. Depending on all the stuff I wrote about above, plus your geographical location, your family status, etc, you might not end up enjoying, or even begin able to live off Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a job. If the tradeoff is that you come to hate BJJ because it became your job, you better stick to a different one and leave it as your hobby. After all, it is better to have efficient mat therapy for your mind, than no therapy at all.

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The Most Embarrasing Of All BJJ Half Guard Sweeps

BJJ World

What is the easiest guard to sweep someone from in BJJ? Well, if you don’t know any sweeps, all guards will be difficult, however, if you ask me, half guard, is one of the top spots to use to end up on top. Why? Well, you already have one lag trapped so that’s almost half the job done right there. However, who do you know which of all the BJJ half guard sweeps is the best bet for you? Well, how about one that is so easy it will make your opponents blush!

BJJ half guard sweeps are interesting and fun, but they do tend to overwhelm. How wouldn’t they, when there are so many half guard variations, and different sweeps from all of them? still, if you’re ever stuck with what to do in BJJ remember that simple is best, and the more fundamental you go, the better. So, using Occam’s razor principle, if the simplest solution is usually the best, a sweep from half guard that’s so dumb it will make people embarrassed should be your number one option.

You Only Need A Couple Of BJJ Half Guard Sweeps

If you try to learn all the BJJ half guard sweeps in existence, you’ll have to spend a lifetime chasing a moving target. Instead, you only need a couple of sweeps that will help you get on top of anyone. There are only two things to consider here.

First, you need to pick the half guard that you’ll play. Is it going to be the underhook, half guard, butterfly half guard, lockdown, Knee shield half guard, etc? the reason you need to figure out a half guard you’re going to play is just so you know how to best position your grips for BJJ half guard sweeps.

That brings me to the second thing you need to consider: Some half guard sweeps work from every half guard. Those are exactly the sweeps you want in your arsenal. As long as you know how to set up the grips that will open up the sweeps, the half guard variation you’re playing makes no difference.

Finally, there’s a bonus moment to consider – when you attack with a sweep. Simply put, you could be proactive and try and force the opponent into a sweep, or reactive, and use their passing attempt to set up a sweep trap.

Easy And Embarrassing

Let’s look at one sweep that is utterly embarrassing for whoever is caught with it. From a basic knee shield half guard (aka Z guard), you want to follow some general half guard guidelines – be on your side, frame against the far side arm, and have your knees close to your chest.

The sweep works like a trap, meaning you’ll bait your opponent in thinking they’re passing your guard. The bait is you trying to push his arm toward his legs, which is something that will almost always get a reaction out of the top person. That reaction often comes in the form of them trying to stop over your arm to break the grip. That, however, gives you exactly what you want.

The moment an opponent steps forward, they have all their weight on that leg, but at the same time, you still have their arm. that means they have no base, and all it takes is to push with the knee shield knee to get the easiest of all imaginable BJJ half guard sweeps. The sweep is based on deception and timing, but it does work like a charm. The best part about this sweep si that here’s no stopping it, and the grip you and on the arm gets you in a really good top position as well.

BJJ Half Guard Sweeps And Jedi Mind Tricks

The reason why the simple BJJ half guard sweeps work better than their complicated counterparts is that nobody is expecting them. Doing something so utterly simply as toppling them over because you took away their base without notice seems like the ultimate Jedi mind trick to pull off on someone.

In the case of the embarrassing Z-guard sweep, there’s further fun to have at the expense of your opponents. Holding that far arm at wrist level actually opens up lots of opportunities for you,. If you can’t bait your opponent into breaking your grip, they’ll most likely attempt to posture up in order to change how they pass the guard. Then, you simply followed them up and pass the arm behind their back so that you now grip it with your other arm. Needles to say, the easiest al butterfly-based BJJ half guard sweeps is right here for the taking, with no way of defining it.

But here’s the ultimate kicker – if people manage to present one of these two seeps from taking place, you can always switch to the other one. Moreover, you could et up the same form butterfly half guard, Z-guard, the lockdown, and just about any other half guard you can think of. As is said, a couple of sweeps and a Jedi mind tricks all you need to sweep anyone from the half guard.

Wrap Up

BJJ half guard sweeps are a great way of dealing with more experienced or bigger opponents. or both. They will manage to provide you with a top position, but only if you don’t overcomplicate things. leave the Tornado guard sweeps and crazy overhead stuff aside for while. Simply toppling someone over or sweeping them with their hand tied behind their back might not look as cool, but that’s the more reason people will be embarrassed by them. The best part is, there’s literally nothing they can do about it!

Best BJJ Half Guard Instructionals – The Complete Guide

The Only BJJ Half Guard Sweep You’ll Ever Need!

Black Belt In BJJ Rolling With Strongman: Who Wins?

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What would happen if a strongman entered a BJJ gym? We all know they’re big guys that are just as strong as they look, sometimes even more. However, would that help them against a trained grappler? The answer is of course, different and dependent on plenty of other variables. Check out a video of a black belt in BJJ rolling with a strongman in a friendly atmosphere to discover an answer to this question.

Rolling with big guys is something I quite enjoy, but then again, I am used to it. I was the smallest person in my gym and had to do it from day one, so now, a decade later, I have no problem dealing with beige and strong opponents. I have never, though, grappled with a strongman, one of those huge competitive strongmen that lift boulders and move trucks kind of guy. until I get the chance to do so, though, I can discuss another black belt in BJJ rolling with strongman, and hoping one day I can do the same.

The Small Vs. Big Debate: Who Wins

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was originally designed to help a smaller and weaker person beat a bigger, stronger one. But, then again, all martial arts have a claim like this. In essence, Jiu-Jitsu proved it worked in such a fashion mostly through Helio Gracie.

Helio was a skinny and sickly guy anyway, and he would come off as the smaller one in most matches. He did hold his own though, especially against some really big Japanese Judo specimens of the time. This demonstrated that being small and having a skillset like BJJ can help you not just dispose of bigger opponents, but also ones highly trained in other martial arts.

The debate of small vs. big people in martial arts has always been there. However, that debate can only be solved if we settle a very big aspect of the whole thing. Is the bigger guy trained, and if so, is it in the same combat sport as the smaller guy? Because, if it is grappling, the size will make it difficult for a smaller guy, but certainly not impossible, or in certain cases, not even hard, to win. For example, a black belt in BJJ rolling with a strongman who doesn’t train would have a much different match outcome than enrolling with a strongman that also knows Jiu-Jitsu.

A Black Belt In BJJ Rolling With Strongman

In the video below you can see a black belt in BJJ rolling with a strongman by the name of Martin Licis. He is a Latvian strongman and holder of the “Strongest Man In The World” title which he won in 2019. He gets into a friendly roll with a black belt named Ram Vision.

The idea is that a black belt is going to try and teach a couple of strongmen Jiu-Jitsu, and then roll with the big guys. Of course, it is the rolling part that is really interesting, given the strongmen are not just your typical big guy that stumbles in the gym. That said, Ram weighs in at 145 lbs, while Martin steps on the mats at 330 lbs. If you take a look at the video below you’ll notice from the roll the two strongmen do between themselves that they have no idea what they’re doing. But how will the black belt fare?

As they do the roll you can hear Ram acknowledging how huge Martin is and that it is making a difference. Even though he knows nothing, Martin is difficult to escape from, especially from top positions. Butterfly hooks help Ram deal with him, and as the video goes on the rolls with the other strongman as well, trying to keep him inside the control.

What is apparent, apart from the black belt having fun and not really trying to do anything is that the strongmen are so big and strong, that they can actually manhandle the black belt. Until submissions come into play, that is.

Strength Or Technique?

Both. If this was not a black belt in BJJ rolling with strongman but rather a real match, to a challenging fight, I really doubt the outcome. The technique is good and all that jazz, but in a real-life scenario, dealing with such a huge human being that is extremely strong seems like a losing battle. After all, when the strength of a strongman magnitude comes into play, technique pretty much goes out the window.

Now, combining strength and technique is something you want to achieve as a grappler. The play match between a BJJ black felt and the strongest man in the world clearly demonstrates that if you’re at any one end of the spectrum, you’ll be missing a key piece of the puzzle, You could be freakishly strong, or have incredibly great technique. Having both, though, probably requires an amount of dedication that borders on the impossible.

The best advice for grapplers is to focus on their technique while trying to keep a decent level of strength. That way, against more technical opponents, strength might help you wiggle out. Against stronger opponents, it would be a technique that you’ll turn to. Facing a strongman, though, is still an open question, at least until I can get the feel for what it is to roll with one.

Conclusion

It is always fun to see people trying out Jiu-jitsu for the first time. especially with athletes. However, a black belt in BJJ rolling with a strongman is a new one for me. That said, I’d love to see more rolling, than what is shown in the video, given that rolls are short and in an extremely friendly atmosphere. Perhaps, in the second part of this video, we might just see that one day.

Man Tries to Rob a Woman With a Knife in Front of Jiu-Jitsu Academy. BJJ Black Belt Subdues Him.

A Former MMA Fighter Killed in a Restaurant, the Footage is Truly Bizarre

Major BJJ Events In 2020: What Is Left Of IBJJF, UAEJJF, ADCC?

BJJ World

When 2020 took off, we all had BJJ competition plans. IN January, everything was in order, with the Europeans taking place as usual. February also features a few notable tournaments being held, but then, from March on, almost all competitive BJJ events, especially those open for registration went belly up. All organizations from the IBJJF to the ADCC withheld from organizing scheduled events, and many of them completely cleaned their calendars. However, even with less than two months left of 2020, there’s still hope for competing!

The outbreak of the virus certainly caught everyone off guard, especially those involved in combat sports and combat sports competitions. BJJ events also took a big hit, with not just competitions, but the entire sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu getting sidelined for the better part of a few months. In certain parts of the world, lockdown is still ongoing or has restarted after the recent surge in Covid cases. Still, when it comes to competing in BJJ before the turn of the year, you might just be in luck.

The Match Of The Century: Covid-19 vs. BJJ

Truly, if anyone asks me about the grappling match of the century, I’d have to say it was, and actually still is, the no time limit altercation between Covid-19 and the BJJ world. Most gyms had to close, which was dearly felt all around the globe. As an academy owner myself, I know that for a while there, it felt pretty dark.

Before most academies started closing down, BJJ events of a competitive nature were the first to go. The AJP European got canceled, then the IBJJF cleared out their calendar completely, and ADCC trials got postponed. But at the moment, the was not the sole focus of grapplers. A more pressing issue was, and in certain parts of the world still is, that people can’t even train Jiu-Jitsu.

The fact remains that as a very close contact sport, BJJ is high on the list of activities that could help the spread of the Covid-19 virus and cause clusters. To that extent, there are protocols that have allowed for BJJ gyms to reopen, although they require a lot o adjustment to the way of training we knew, as well as a lot of work. Still, there’s hope for BJJ in this crucial match, even if Covid-19 is currently leading on points. And bringing back some key BJJ events is just the upset we need.

BJJ Events In 2020

How will BJJ events look in 2020, or, if we are being realistic, in 2021 as well? First of all, there will be no audience. There are different protocols that different organizations proposed, but as per the IBJJF, every competitor can bring a coach and one more person to assist them. This, along with social distancing and the mandatory masks and frequent disinfection should lower the risk of the virus spreading among a number of people. Competitors will be asked to wear masks until the moment they step on the mats to compete.

It seems that the protocols (which extend way pas what I just wrote about) have been thoroughly thought out. In fact, we already saw several UAEJJF tournaments, and the IBJJF Pans took place in October, proving that the concept can work. However, the fact remains that travel restrictions do make for an unbeatable obstacle when it comes to the number of international athletes one would expect to show up a ta certain BJJ event.

On that note, what are the events we can look forward to as 2020 draws to a close, and what has been postponed or even canceled?

IBJJF

IBJJF BJJ events restarted with the Pan IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu championship in October, after the promotion clearing out their 202 calendar entirely. While there were fewer people compared to before, the tournament did go in perfect order, obviously encouraging the IBJJF to keep up with at least some of the tournaments planned for 2020.

The Houston International Open is still scheduled for 14 November, which is just around the corner.
The No-Gi IBJJF Pan Jiu-Jitsu CHampionship will try to follow in the success of the October Gi event, taking place between November 21-22 in College Park, GA.
At the same Georgia venue, the Atlanta International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu CHampionship is all set for November 21-22, at the same time as the No-Gi Pans.
The American National IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2020 in both Gi and NO-Gi editions will take place from December 4-6, in Dallas.
Finally, The World Masters IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship is scheduled for December 14-20, as the final of all BJJ events that the IBJJF has on their 2020 calendar.

UAEJJF

The UAEJJF restarted first, putting together events as early as September. They went on to host an event in Brazil in October as well.

November will see The AJP TOUR China National Gi and No-Gi take place in SHangai, on November 21st.

In December, the Rio De Janeiro International Pro Gi is set for December 4 with the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam JIu-Jitsu World Tour-Rio set for December 5-6.

In Europe, the AJP Tour Ukraine National Pro Gi is set for December 12, and the AJP Tour Russia National Pro No-Gi for December 20, in their respective countries.

The Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship, originally scheduled for November has been moved to February 2021.

ADCC

unfortunately, the ADCC scheduled for September 2021 has been postponed, initially until 2022. This will see what is considered to be the pinnacle of BJJ events change toa even-numbered years, given that it only takes place every two years.

The event director Mo Jassim issued the following statement:

“Due to the delays of the ADCC Trials because of COVID-19, we have decided to postpone the ADCC World Championships to 2022. The health and safety of the competitors, audience, and staff is ADCC’s number one priority”

The European ADCC trials have been rescheduled for December 19 in Poland, but it is far from certain that they’ll take place. The Asia and Oceania trails and North American trials have also been postponed. There’ is no new date for the former, while the latter is expected to take place sometime in January 2021.

All In All

202 hasn’t been a good year for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. BJJ events have really taken a hit, although some of the professional events have managed to carry on, at least providing us with something to watch in lockdown. However, there’s light at the end of the tunnel, and those that enjoy competing under IBJJF and UAEJJF rules do have some options left around the world. At least for the time being.

Garry Tonon – Unifying The Systems Instructional Review

BJJ World

Garry Tonon Unifying the Systems DVD Review

What is the best Danaher Death Squad DVD so far? Different folks will have different favorites, of course, but that was all until now. Garry Tonon won eh fight for the best possible DVD up to date, out of everyone in the DDS, Danaher himself. What Tonon opted to do is connect everything, providing the transitions we sorely missed between all the submission systems they use. His 8-part “Unifying The Systems” DVD is a late contender for the best BJJ instructional of 2020, and it may just win!

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Garry Tonon – Unifying The Systems

Garry Tonon Unifying the Systems DVD — Free Videos and Techniques List

Garry Tonon is without a doubt one of the most exciting grapplers of today. He hasn’t had one boring match, and always delivers high-level performances. He is also the man behind two DVDs so far, one on blending submissions with wrestling takedowns, and the other on escaping just about everything in Jiu-Jitsu. His third DVD is his most unique one so far, and is, in fact, the most unique DVD in general. The focus in “Unifying the Systems” is on chaining together everything that his teammates in the form of Gordon Ryan and John Danaher have taught so far in digital editions.

The DDS Submission Systems

Out of all the submission techniques, categories, and concepts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, John Danaher has managed to figure out the most effective ones. In doing so, he created several submission systems that revolve around a key submission but do branch out into other subs as well. The genius move was to include nothing but the highest percentage of submissions in those branches, which made his DDS so successful at submitting everyone.

The systems the DDS use revolve around 6 key submission holds, and all the “daughter” submissions that stem from the. Before I list them all I’ll just add that the squad uses the submissions for strong positional control as well as for finishing, doubling the potential they have to dominate an opponent. The six submission systems used by Danaher and his disciples are:

Leg locks (based around heel hooks)
Kimuras
Triangle chokes
Armbars
Front Headlock chokes
Back Attacks (based around the Rear naked choke)

The “Unifying The Systems” Garry Tonon DVD offers the ultimate blueprint to connect each and every one of these systems with all of the rest, creating a submission loop impossible to escape for anyone!

“Unifying The Systems”: One System To Rule Them All

So far, we have seen Danaher issue 6 DVDs on his submission systems. From there on he focused on his Gi series and, most recently, takedowns. Gordon Ryan has a similar thing, covering mostly position play, but with lots of submissions intertwined. Tonon, I’d dare say, has the simplest BJJ DVD formats of everyone in the DDS, actually making it the easiest to learn from and put to practice immediately.

The 29-year-old, currently fighting professionally under the ONE FC banner, is not just a master of submissions, but also of unorthodox movement. In fact, once you start to explore the Danaher Death Squad submission systems, you’ll find out that connecting them is no easy feat. It is not that you won’t figure out how to get an armbar from a triangle choke, but connecting a leg lock attack with the front headlock might prove to be more difficult. That’s where Garry Tonon comes in.

His “Unifying The Systems” DVD is all about the key transitions that connect the systems. Submissions are the strongest when you attack them during transitions and Tonon is a prodigy at that. Not only that but attacking in this manner opens up dilemma attacks as well, which we know are key to actually finishing a highly skilled opponent. With this instructional, all the stuff you’ve learned, are learning, or plan to learn from the other DDS instructional will make a lot more sense when you start to take them for a test drive on the mats.

The way to look at this new Garry Tonon DVD and digital instructional is the one system to rule them all.

Unifying The Systems Garry Tonon DVD Review

What does this Garry Tonon DVD offer? Well, all the usual Garry Tonon craziness, for one. His hairstyle alone is enough of a reason to pick this instructional up. Apart from that, it is an 8-part BJJ DVD instructional on submissions. Is there any need to explain further why everyone needs to pick it up right away?

The organization of the instructional is also something that really adds to its quality. The DDS submission systems are complicated as is, without introducing transitions to the mix. In “Unifying The Systems” Tonon manages to provide a clear cut structure by focusing on one submission system per volume, and covering the most effective transitions from that system into other systems that complement it.

1. Leg Locks

After getting a quick introduction out of the ways, Garry Tonon goes straight into the goals of his system that combines systems. Without wasting too much time, Tonon goes straight into leg locks, talking about rotational finishes – toe holds, heel hooks kneebars, and ankle locks.

After a short repetition of submission principles, he then ties in transitions into the concept of rotating leg locks. The first avenue he explores is switching between the different leg locks attacks within the system itself. these transitions are key because they’ll then open up options to get to the back, which is the preferred combination of Garry and the DDS.

Back takes off of leg locks work off of the same principles of facing forward or rear when transitioning between leg locks. However, since the back is furthest from the legs, Kimuras, triangles, and front headlocks are the systems that act as go-betweens, connecting all the dots.

2. Back Attacks

On the subject of back attacks, “Unifying The System” starts off with the cross-body ride, something covered in both Danaher’s and Ryan’s DVDs. This is the body configuration that opens up not just rear strangles, but also transitions into armlocks, as the next best thing.

Tonon covers a bunch of different Juji Gatame transitions, including a very cool Lat Juji option that’s unusual and new. Crucifix, triangle, and kimura also make an appearance to help connect everything. There is also a very ingenious way of getting the front headlock from back control, as well as a route back to leg locks.

3. Kimuras

Kimura locks are the main focus of Garry Tonon in this DVD, and for a good reason. the Kimura trap has long been a position that helps people transition in between different positions and submission holds. In the third and fourth volumes, Tonon is all about Kimura locks.

First up are key details on enhancing the Kimura, before moving on to explore how the Kimura and front headlock tie together. Turtle attacks, dorsal setups, and the world-famous Danaher T-Kimura all feature here.

Juji Gateme transitions from the Kimura, along with a very interesting take on getting the legs, wrap this DVD up. Crucifix, Dorsal, T-Kimura, and the scoop are just some of the ways that Tonon likes to connect the Kimura to these submission systems.

4. More Kimuras

Speaking of Kimuras, Tonon extends the transitional power of this move into one more volume, making it the most versatile submission system to transition out of. The well-known direction of getting back control from the Kimura is in focus throughout most of this volume.

The T-Kimura from the top, bottom, and turtle are just some of the ways that Tonon likes to set up back takes by using the Kimura. He also has interesting ways of introducing the cross-body ride to literally climb the back of opponents while holding on to a Kimura.

A section on triangle strangles from the Kimura, mostly from the bottom and via an Omoplata, wrap up this volume, marking the halfway point of the ‘Unifying the Systems” DVD.

5. Front Headlocks

Front headlocks are a staple of grappling, and the DDS like to use them quite a lot, both standing and on the ground. The front headlock system is actually “|the hub” that connects all other systems without too much effort. It is literally a hallway point between all the other submission systems.

Garry Tonon divides this volume into sections, going over precise ways of connecting the front headlock with a specific submission system or subsystem in each. First up are, courses, some finishing details about guillotines, followed immediately by transitioning into leg locks, causing some of the routes already covered before, like dorsal, elevating, and introducing the cradle.

Kimura, triangles, arm locks, and back attacks all get their own sections as well, featuring at least a couple of ways of transitioning from a front headlock control.

6. Arm Locks

Arm locks, similarly to the front headlock and Kimura also offer lots of transitioning options, depending on whether you’re on top or bottom with them. Navigating the system of armlocks opens up this volume before Tonon goes into transitions between arm locks and leg locks, which is subject nobody has covered so far. This route is actually one of the unique things about this instructional.

Back attacks follow, with an interesting take on S-mount among other things. Kimuras and triangles transitions also feature, with several interesting and slightly acrobatic versions regarding the former.

7. Triangles

Triangle strangles are quite powerful on their own, particularly given the DDS systems offer triangles from many different angles. However, “Unifying The System” now all opens up routes of transitioning, and not just into armbars or Omoplatas. Of course, armlocks are available from front, side, rear, and reverse triangles.

The big caveat here is the transition into leg locks, which are available via both the forward and rear-facing methods. This here is a game-changer, as you don’t see many people hunting for leg locks successfully form a triangle choke position.

8. Attacking in 3’s and 4’s

The final volume is actually not one that offers transitions in between the positions. Instead, this is where Garry Tonon puts everything in a blender, making things work via the dilemma principle. Here, it is all about attacking with three or four submissions at once, actually cutting back on transitioning by positioning yourself in slightly unorthodox manners.

Chapters include a specific pattern of attack for each of the six main submission systems, as well as a portion of tips for setting up everything in training.

In Summary

A Garry Tonon DVD is always a treat, but his “Unifying the Systems” instructional is something special even by DDS standards. it is exactly what was missing in the puzzle of all the material they have released in the past couple of years. Tonon actually created a DVD without too much new information but containing the ultimate hacks and details to make everything work for you, the way it does for them.

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Advanced Ground Techniques DVD Review by Satoshi Ishii

BJJ World

Advanced Ground Techniques Satoshi Ishii

Let’ talk about a crazy idea. Would you learn ground Judo techniques to improve upon your BJJ? Most people would think about it twice. After all isn’t BJJ the evolution of Judo, especially in that department? Well, as true as that is, Judo still has a lot to teach us about Ne Waza, or ground fighting. And, when a Judoka of the caliber of Satoshi Ishii is the man teaching, you better listen. His “Advanced Ground Techniques” DVD and digital instructional will change your life!

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Satoshi Ishii – Advanced Ground Techniques

Satoshi Ishii is one of the most accomplished Judoka in the world. But he is much more than just Judoka, he is also one of the best Judo coaches to ever live, and is an overall very experienced grappler. Satoshi is a Judo Olympian, Judo black belt, BJJ black belt, and an MMA veteran with 36 professional fights. In other words, an instructional named “Advanced Ground techniques” by Satoshi Ishii is a must.

The Accomplishments Of Satoshi Ishii

Although born in Japan, Satoshi Ishii has dual citizenship in both Japan and Croatia. He discovered Judo very early in Japan and proved to be a powerful competitor very early on. He won everything there was at all possible levels. Namely, Satoshi Ishii’s most notable accomplishments look something like this:

Olympic gold medal in Judo at the 2008 Bejing Games
Gold at the World Championship Games in Bejing, 2007
Silver at the Asian Games in Doha, 2006
Gold at the Universiade in Bangkok, 2007
Gold at the World U20 Championship, Budapest, 2004
A Gold medal at the Asian U20 Championship in Doha, 2004

Satoshi also has an MMA record of 23-12-1 with eleven of his victories coming by way of submission. He fought under the Dream, World Victory Road, Rizin, Strikeforce, Bellator, and K-1. He also trained with the best in the game, ranging from American Top Team to Black House in Brazil. Satoshi is still an active fighter with Rizin. I could go on but I guess his pedigree so far is more than enough to tickle your imagination about the “Advanced Ground Techniques” DVD.

Judo Newaza Techniques For BJJ

When I first saw this DVD is was really hyped and excited. I’ve spent so much time diving in Judo, Sambo, and catch wrestling to figure out ground stuff that a dedicated DVD instructional on the subject came in as a real gift! Moreover, it is a BJJ DVD by a Jiu-Jitsu black belt and a6th degree Judo black belt.

In Judo, the ground fighting portion is referred to as Ne Waza. The rules of sports Judo do not allow for a lot of time on the ground, which is why people in BJJ often think there’s nothing to learn. On the contrary, the time limits make Judo grapplers that much more effective at pulling off weird submissions with collars or snapping up lightening quick armbars. Moreover, they are the masters of the turtle position, both defensively and offensively. Just pick up the “Advanced Ground Techniques” Satoshi Ishii DVD and you’ll see for yourself.

Satoshi Ishii Advanced Ground Techniques DVD Review

The “Advanced Ground Techniques” DVD by Satoshi Ishii is a three-part instructional covering an intricate system of ground fighting that incorporates both Judo and BJJ. Satoshi is one of the best Judo teachers in existence and is equally good in video format as he is live. While you are limited to what he has recorded, his selection of techniques and organization of the DVD is impeccable.

The instructional opens up with a volume on triangles, before moving on to chokes and turtle attacks in part two. Part three even features guard passes, as well as methods of forcing a Ne Waza situation. All in all, this DVD is amazing for both Judokas and BJJ athletes.

Volume 1

The opening volume of the “Advanced Ground Techniques” Satoshi Ishii DVD is all about triangle chokes, or Sankaku Jime, as they are referred to in Judo. The setups, though are unsealed from a BJJ standpoint, as are the finishes Since going on your back will lose you a Judo match, it is mostly the Yoko Sankaku, or side triangle that Satoshi explores. he sets it up against the turtle, belly down and even in a rolling fashion.

Apart from the triangles, Ishii also talks about turtle breakdowns in a sweeping manner, as well as wrist control and how to choke out a turtled up opponent.

Volume 2

Continuing where he left off Satoshi Ishii starts to explore chokes. Since Judo is a Gi sport and chokes with bare hands are forbidden, all the strangling options come with the help of the Gi jacket. First up is a curious old-school Judo choke called the Yasuhiro Yamashita choke. It is sufficient to say, this one will come in very handy.

A rolling collar choke and some off-balancing options from the side to break down turtles make up the rest of this volume. The very last chapter is all about the Juji Gatame or armbar, and how you can set it up against the turtle.

Volume 3

The final volume of the “Advanced Ground Fighting” Satoshi Ishii DVD covers a choke and a guard pass in the opening chapters. The choke is an arm triangle variation, while the pass is something Ishii has come up with on his own.

The remainder of the volume explores how to force a Ne Waza situation from standing, by utilizing Tai Otoshi and Ko Uchi Gari scenarios.

Final Words

Judo for BJJ is irreplaceable when it comes to standing exchanges in the Gi. However, Advanced Ground Fighting techniques from Judo are just as important and valuable in grappling, with or without a Gi. This Satoshi Ishii DVD is a summary of decades of hard work and experience of an Olympic champion. Truly, this is an instructional that will help you think differently about grappling.

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The BJJ Arm Triangle Choke

The Neil Melanson BJJ Arm Triangle Upgrade

Getting To The Arm Triangle

In Summary

The Ultimate Playground Fight Position

Standing BJJ Headlock Escapes

Headlock Escapes On The Ground

Closing Arguments

How To Get Good At BJJ?

8 Things to Avoid Doing In BJJ Training

Slacking

Seeking Instant Gratification

Avoiding Going In Bad Positions

Being A Lousy Teammate

Not Accepting Advice

Leave Class Early Or Arrive Late

Getting Technically Overwhelmed

Not Listening To Your Body

Closing Arguments

Teaching BJJ Full Time: The Dream Job?

Pros and Cons Of Running A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy

The Financial Side Of Things

The Psychological Side Of Things

The Physical Side Of things (Train Fitness Is A Byproduct)

All In All

You Only Need A Couple Of BJJ Half Guard Sweeps

Easy And Embarrassing

BJJ Half Guard Sweeps And Jedi Mind Tricks

Wrap Up

The Small Vs. Big Debate: Who Wins

A Black Belt In BJJ Rolling With Strongman

Strength Or Technique?

Conclusion

The Match Of The Century: Covid-19 vs. BJJ

BJJ Events In 2020

IBJJF

UAEJJF

ADCC

All In All

The DDS Submission Systems

“Unifying The Systems”: One System To Rule Them All

Unifying The Systems Garry Tonon DVD Review

1. Leg Locks

2. Back Attacks

3. Kimuras

4. More Kimuras

5. Front Headlocks

6. Arm Locks

7. Triangles

8. Attacking in 3’s and 4’s

In Summary

The Accomplishments Of Satoshi Ishii

Judo Newaza Techniques For BJJ

Satoshi Ishii Advanced Ground Techniques DVD Review

Volume 1

Volume 2

Volume 3

Final Words