Living the BJJ life style

Deep Half Guard Galore

2010-08-20T10:29:00.000-07:00

Classes 101 - 124 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 173 lbs.
Instructor(s): Cassio Werneck and Brent Goodall

Class(es) Overview:

I really started working Half Guard as a Blue belt but it was not until I saw Jeff Glover's Deep Half Guard DVD that I really started to understand the position. It seemed a perfect fit for me so I began to integrate it into my already decent standard Half Guard game with immediately success.

Although this video is a little grainy it covers what I consider to be the "Big Six" Deep Half Guard sweep:

However there was(are) a few guys we gave me a lot of trouble with the Deep Half Guard so I started to analyze what they were doing. Let us take a look at some of the problems I was having and what should be done to address them.

If the opponent get the cross face blocking your entry into the Deep Half Guard.

Revert back to the standard half guard

If the opponent crosses their legs underneath them. Thereby stopping you from gaining control of an individual leg.

Revert back to the standard half guard

If the opponent gets the under hook the outside arm.

Danger!! - This is a real problem because the opponent can attack with the straight armbar and triangle. On Jeff Glover DVD he shows a technique where you limp your underhooked arm then lift with your outside hook. (We are going to shoot a demo of this technique this weekend and I will update this post when the video is up.)

Tip(s) of the week:

Do not let the opponent get the underhook of your outside arm!!

I cannot over-emphasize maintaining control of your outside arm. This completely disrupts the Deep Half Guard game so be mindful of your arm placement making sure it is very tight to your body or hidden under the opponent's leg in the deep half.

Rolling Overview:
Enjoy each class and each roll. Keep in mind that without your training partners you would have no jiu-jitsu.

Judo Overview: We have been working Tai - Otoshi for the past few weeks. I have always had a some serious issues with this throw so more uchikomis are in my future.

Magic 8 Brawl - My new favorite Android App !!

2010-07-08T10:35:00.000-07:00

Think of the classic Magic 8-Ball on steroids!!

Tried of the other 20 boring 8 Ball apps on the Android Marketplace then download the Magic 8 Brawl you will not be sorry Jaime is funny as HELL!!

MMA fighter and KOTC champion Jaime "El Cucui" Jara answers your deepest questions in a way that only "El Cucui" can.

It is very easy to use simply:
1.) Ask a question
2.) Shake it like a polaroid or simply touch the screen
3.) Get ready for the real truth..even if it hurts..which it might!!

Oh, did I mention that it is also FREE!!

Here are a few screenshots for the app.

Just search for "Magic 8 Brawl" or "iFightVideo" in the Android Marketplace  or  use your Barcode Scanner and scan the Magic 8 Brawl QR Code image:

Anytime I am undecided on what I should do, I start the app and ask Jaime. He seems to have an uncanny ability to either tell the truth or tell me he is going to kick my ass. Either way a decision us made!!

Omoplata always a sweep, never a submission?

2010-07-03T09:15:00.000-07:00

Class 80 - 100 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 170 lbs.
Instructor(s):Cassio Werneck and Brent Goodall

Class(es) Overview:

We worked Omoplatas this week with a bunch of positional drilling and transitions(triangle, straight armlock, taking the back). Cassio always says that the Omoplata is a submission "FIRST" and a sweep "SECOND". However I will admit I have been treating it as the later for sometime. Often when I begin to apply the Omoplata my intent is to transition into a another technique instead of focusing on the Omoplata itself.

The thing I have always appreciated about the Omoplata is that it works against just about anyone regardless the size if a few basic principals are maintained.

This a video by Leo Kirby that goes over some of the principals of getting, maintaining and finishing the Omoplata:

Tip(s) of the week:

Maintain tight control of the elbow.
Maintain tight control of the elbow.
Maintain tight control of the elbow.
Maintain tight control of the elbow.

I over-emphasize maintaining control of the elbow because as long as you do so you have the Omoplata. So do not forget to: MAINTAIN TIGHT CONTROL OF THE ELBOW!

Here is a cool technique of the week a "Flying Omoplata" by Rafael Mendes:

Rolling Overview:
Enjoy each class and each roll. Keep in mind that without your training partners you would have no jiu-jitsu.

Judo Overview: We have been working Tai - Otoshi for the past few weeks. I have always had a some serious issues with this throw so more uchikomis are in my future.

Sergio Penha interview on Fightworks Podcast

2010-06-27T10:37:00.000-07:00

As most of you already know Sergio Penha recently received his Red and Black belt at this years' Mundials.

In addition he is one of my favorite BJJ instructors.

Check out his interview at the Fightworks Podcast:
#217 Sergio Penha, Jiu-Jitsu Red and Black Belt

He has some very interesting insights regarding BJJ and does a great interview.

BJJ Mount Submission - Kimura Variation

2010-06-18T16:20:00.000-07:00

Really dope setup to a Kimura from the mount position. I normally focus way too much on the choke when this Kimura is right there for the taking...enjoy!!

Gi Subs Vol. 1 - The Chokes now on the Android!

2010-05-31T09:09:00.000-07:00

One of the black belts(Marcos Torregrosa) from my school released a BJJ app for the all Android phones called "Gi Subs 1 - The Chokes". It is the first and only full video Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu application on the Android Marketplace

Just search for "BJJ" or "Gi Subs" in the Android Marketplace.
or
use your Barcode Scanner and scan this image:

Here is a technique from the Android application:

Check it out any feedback you might have would be appreciated.

Catching up...

2010-05-16T08:19:00.000-07:00

Class 55 - 70 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 170 lbs.
Instructor(s):Cassio Werneck, Sergio Penha, Brent Goodall

First off just let me say I have not kept up with my blogging the past couple of weeks but in my defense I took my wife on vacation(Las Vegas..more on my trip later) and have been really busy developing apps for the iPhone and Android platforms with iFightVideo.com so cut me some slack.

Class(es) Overview:
I was in Las Vegas during the last week of April and had the pleasure of training at Sergio Penha's academy. Sergio is the instructor to my instructor Cassio Werneck and everybody told he was a legend. Still upon meeting the guy I had no clue what I was in store for.

The guys at Sergio's academy were really cool(By the way Sergio would not accept my mat fee) and I did not feel like anyone was gunning for me. I got some solid rounds in with some of Sergio's brown, blue and white belts. Oh and of course Sergio himself. I held my own against his students but Sergio Penha is on a whole different planet.

To say he is good in BJJ is like saying Magic Johnson was good in basketball. I got tapped 5 times in 10 mins training with Sergio which included: A wristlock, two straight armbars, an Americana off a Brabo(something I have never seen before) and a Cross Choke from the mount.

His pressure from side control is ridiculous he felt like he weighed 400lbs. However his best position by far was the closed guard. Quite simply the best closed guard I have ever felt...EVER!! He uses hip and leg movement along with grips to destroy your base.

Here is one of the sweeps he got on me which ended up with a cross choke from the mount:

Here is the mount wristlock that I got caught with I never saw it coming:

One of his students after class was telling me that Sergio got his black belt in 1974 and that he was only one for 4 Black and Red belts in the U.S. and I believe it. If you are ever in Vegas I highly recommend you check out Sergio Penha - Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu you will not be sorry.

After I got back to town Cassio continued his positional training and focused on sweeping(or escaping) the Big 6 positions(Closed Guard, Half Guard, Side Control, Mount, Back, Sitting up guard) . During this past week it has been all about the under stack pass.

Check out the variation of this pass by Judo Ne-waza legend Kashiwazaki.

What I really like about the Kashiwazaki variation is how he controls to far side arm to complete the pass.
Tip(s) of the week:

On the under stack pass square up to the opponent and drive your weight forward putting his knee onto his forehead.
Control behind the knee and not in front of the knee to reduce the chance of the triangle.
Stack the opponent so that only his shoulders are touching the mat.
Use your chest to pass instead of lifting up to clear the head.

Rolling Overview:
Kneebars and footlocks are everywhere!!

Judo Overview: We worked foot sweeps this week. I still need to work on my but I am committed to at least two judo classes a week.

Gi Subs 1 Lite on the Android Marketplace

2010-05-07T08:21:00.000-07:00

One of the black belts(Marcos Torregrosa) from my school released a BJJ app for the iPhone/iPod touch called "Gi Subs 1 - The Chokes" in the summer last year.

Well they finally got around to releasing a free "Lite" version for the Android Marketplace. The "Lite" version contains all of the step by step technique breakdowns but only 3 of the video instructional. They encountered some issues with the size app containing all of the video so they decided to give away a scaled down version for "Gratis".

Just search for "BJJ" or "Gi Subs" in the Android Marketplace.
or
use your Barcode Scanner and scan this image:

Here is a technique from the Android application:

This is their first Android app so any feedback you might have would be appreciated.

X-Guard and a little Judo..??

2010-04-19T07:37:00.000-07:00

Class 48 - 54 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 166 lbs.
Instructor(s): Cassio Werneck
Daniel Morales
Class(es) Overview:
Cassio worked a bunch of positional drills from not only the Big 6 positions(Closed Guard, Half Guard, Side Control, Mount, Back, Sitting up guard) but also some of my new favorite(again) the X-Guard. However you cannot talk about the X-Guard without talking about Mr. Marcelo Garcia.

This is an interesting transition into a kneebar from the X-Guard that I have been working:

In this video this guy shows an attack on an armbar from the X-Guard as well.

Tip(s) of the week:
My biggest problem with using the X-Guard against advanced students is the transition to into it. Cassio showed an "alpha" guard entry which I plan on filming in the near future that has been working pretty well for me.

Rolling Overview:
I was rolling at full strength and my cardio is starting to improve. I continue to refine my grappling gameplan ...going to give the America's Cup a shot..God help me!

Daniel(Judo) went over the O-Goshi and Harai Goshi. Here is what the Harai Goshi looks like:

Check out this guy's modified low O-Goshi against a crotching opponent:

Judo Overview: Taking falls hurts...PERIOD. I do not care how good your ukemi it still never feels good. Getting the timing for executing throws has to be the most difficult part to learn. I am going to keep at it twice a week.

BJJ it's a helluva lifestyle!!

2010-04-17T10:55:00.000-07:00

As BJJ practitioner who is nearing 40 years old I feel a kinship with the "O.G." BJJ guys. I have been a long-distance fan of Fabio Santos for awhile and this video epitomizes why...Enjoy!

On to the next one

2010-04-07T07:26:00.000-07:00

Class 44 - 47 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 167 lbs.
Instructor(s): Cassio Werneck

Class(es) Overview:
Cassio This week we worked on some of the standard half-guard sweeps including the old school and basic deep half guard sweep.

Tip(s) of the week:
I have been playing a lot of deep half guard the past couple of months and one thing that I noticed was that there is a danger of getting caught in a shoulder lock when sweeping you opponent to the back. If you do not hide your far arm under their leg. I will be releasing a video in the next few weeks that addresses this problem.

Rolling Overview:
I was rolling at full strength unfortunately my cardio is now suffering the effects of not training hard for over a month. Lots of "sweep and hold" to control the pace of my rolls. Really starting to work my grappling gameplan my goal is to go through the exact same steps every roll without having to think about it and end up getting the same submission.

Additional thoughts:
Happy hunting to the guys(and gals) going down to the 2010 Pan-Ams in Irvine, CA from Capital City BJJ and Cassio Werneck Jiu-Jitsu. Kick some ass!!

Don't forget people the BJJ Pan Ams 2010 is being streamed live courtesy of Budovideo.

Getting my mojo back..(40-43)

2010-03-29T21:41:00.000-07:00

Class 40 - 43 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 165 lbs.
Instructor(s): Cassio Werneck and Marcos Torregrosa

Class(es) Overview:
Cassio did hour long rolling sessions this week. These are really cool because it forced me to find my rhythm and flow with my technique. I was definitely tired when the class was over but rolling without having to think about the timer allow me to focus on technique and not strength.

Marcos went over some very nice guard passing technique. He allowed me to record several of them which I will be posting to my blog when I get the "go ahead".

This is a sweep that I have been working from the guard. Enjoy!

Rolling Overview:
I was just coming back from the pinched nerve in my neck this week so I was still only rolling at about 75%. However I did roll for the entire hour(s) at Cassio this week.

Don't forget people the BJJ Pan Ams 2010 is being streamed live courtesy of Budovideo.

On April 11th, we will be streaming the 2010 Pan Jiu-Jitsu Championships live from the Bren Events Center at the University of California, Irvine!

Check out the trailer

Drill baby Drill !!

2010-03-19T09:32:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I know drilling moves you already "know" really sucks when you could be working on the new "Super Reverse De La Riva Helicopter Kimura Armbar" that you saw on YouTube last night.

I will admit that even after five years of training BJJ that I can count on both hands the number of times I have actually drilled the same technique more than 25 repetitions in a row.

Think about it....how much longer do you think it would take to "really" learn a sweep when the only time you actually execute it is during rolling with an opponent who is offering 100% resistance, compared to doing same sweep 100 times in a row against an opponent who is giving you varied levels of resistance?

Look at the numbers:
10 minute rolling session = 2-4 technique reps.
vs.
10 minute drilling session = 100 technique reps.

Based on the math you would need at least 20 rolling sessions(probably closer to 50) to get the number of reps from strictly rolling that you get would from a single drilling session.

Personally I love music when doing BJJ drills because it helps me develope rhythm. Check out the reggae music they use in this one:

Although no one has formally defined the number of reps required for drilling a technique. In my humble opinion it has to be at least 100 reps. After all one of the key points of drilling is to develop muscle memory for each technique.

Here is the much hated but a great proponent of drilling...Master Lloyd Irvin

By the way I would like to see people stop hating on Lloyd Irvin so much. People hate his marketing strategies but no one can hate on the fact that the guy creates World Class levels BJJ fighters.

Get off my back, dude!!

2010-03-19T08:42:00.000-07:00

Class 38 - 40 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 162 lbs.
Instructor: Cassio Werneck

Class(es) Overview:
Cassio went over back control escapes.

This is basically the escapes that Cassio went over:

This escape from Saulo Ribeiro Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Revolution Series 1(the best BJJ instructional of all-time in my opinion) is still my favorite:

There are a few guys at my academy that love the "Body Triangle" so here is my go to escape:

Rolling Overview:
Still only rolling at about 50% because of the pinched nerve in my neck. However I did roll every round which is a good sign.

Slow as a Turtle

2010-03-10T07:13:00.000-08:00

Class 36 and 37 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 164 lbs.
Instructor: Cassio Werneck

Class(es) Overview:
Cassio has been going over Turtle Guard the past two classes. Several of the sweeps that he showed are also shown by the "Turtle Master" Eduardo Telles in his DVD series Turtle & Octopus Guard Starring Eduardo Telles. One of the things that is interesting to remember about the turtle is that it is primarily a reactive position. An over-aggressive opponent can expose himself to a plethora of sweeps and submissions.

I think these two techniques turtle techniques go together like "peanut butter and jelly" the basic difference is where your opponent is controlling you from.

1.) Turtle Roll Over(Inside)

2.) Turtle Roll Over(Outside)

Key Points:
1. Protect your neck!! This should go without saying but in the Turtle guard it is the first rule.
2. Make sure you dominate the elbow of the arm that the opponent is trying to hold you with. No elbow control..no sweep!
3. Keep your hips attached to your opponent to maximize the power of the roll.
4. Use this techniques in combination!! Often the first attack with simply off balance your opponent, forcing him to focus on maintaining position. It is at the time that you transition into another technique.

A big problem I have using the Turtle guard against higher level opponents is them getting ahead of me from a technique standpoint and getting to my back. Here are some techniques I use to prevent that from happening.

1.) Ankle Control(Running to the back)

2.) Tackle them!
This is easy technique that I like to use when the opponent tries to circle to the back. It is pretty high percentage but your timing has to be on point:

Rolling overview:
I am still feeling the effects of that pinched nerve therefore I am still rolling "light". I think I am going to ratchet it up today and have normal training so that I can gauge my progress. I gotta start back on my grind ASAP if I have any hopes on fighting at the Pan-Ams.

The hustle never stops.

Rumors of my demise(35 of 200)

2010-03-05T13:00:00.000-08:00

Class 35 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 167 lbs.
Instructor: Cassio Werneck

Class Overview:
Cassio had us working Granby rolls to escape side control, turtle and to re-establish guard. However after being off the mats with a pinched nerve in my neck I wanted no parts of any shoulder or neck rolls.

Key Points:
1. Sit up before the opponent has established full side control.
2. Clear your hips before you initiate the Granby roll.
3. If the opponent follows you continue to a second Gramby roll to regain guard.

Here is a video which shows some pretty interesting Gramby style sweeps which can be done from multiple different positions:

Rolling overview:
I after being out for solid week with a pinched nerve I decided to forego rolling in order to one see how my neck would be after class. I believe that was the right move because I did have some pain later on in the day. I gotta start back on my grind next week if I plan on fighting at the Pan-Ams.

Here I am sporting some serious bling around my neck..check out my "Meds" smile!!

The hustle never stops..

Who pinched my nerve? (35 of 200)

2010-03-02T20:18:00.000-08:00

Well the neck stingers that I have been getting while rolling have finally caught up with me. On Friday I started having what I can only describe as excruciating pain in my left shoulder that kept getting worst during class and the subsequent crossfit training. I finally broke down and went to the doctor and was diagnosed with a pinched nerve:

I am supposed to be out for two weeks but I am going to the chriopractor tomorrow to see if I can cut that down to a week. Keep your fingers crossed for me!!

Chad of MMAHitFit had us do his Workout of the Day today:

6 Tabata rounds of:
Squats
Burpees
Situps
Sprawls
Pushup
Sitouts

Class 35 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 165 lbs.
Instructor: Cassio Werneck

Class Overview:
Cassio continued his single leg takedowns from the sitting up guard against an standing opponent.

Rolling overview:
With my shoulder killing me I only rolled twice and just worked on flowing.

Project Brabo - Part 1

2010-02-26T09:01:00.000-08:00

As part of my on-going obsession with the Brabo Choke I have put together a YouTube playlist of some really cool Brabo Choke instructional video.

The hustle never stops..

When I get big enough there aint gonna be room..

2010-02-24T19:16:00.000-08:00

The Crossfit is really starting to effect my cardio. In fact this is how strong I am feeling:

Chad of MMAHitFit had us do his Workout of the Day today:
10 rounds of:
10 Seoi Nage(Entry - 5 each side)
10 Box Jumps
15 Pushup

Class 34 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 163 lbs.
Instructor: Cassio Werneck

Class Overview:
Cassio continued his single leg takedowns from the sitting up guard against an standing opponent.

Rolling overview:
I tried working gi brabo chokes every roll with very little success. My "T-rex" arms are really a problem. Even when I have my opponent's posture completely broken I still cannot lock the choke in against anyone over 130 lbs. My plan is to continue trying to work the brabo until I figure out an entry that will allow me to actually finish the choke. In fact I am putting together a huge blog post with all of my brabo notes.

In addition I got a chance to roll with "Yemaso" and was fighting for my life the whole round...hail storm of submissions!!

The hustle never stops..

34 of 200

2010-02-23T07:07:00.000-08:00

Class 34 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 163 lbs.

Instructor: Cassio Werneck

Class Overview:
Cassio had us working single leg takedowns from the sitting up guard against an standing opponent.

Key points(Turtle/Double Leg):
1. Keep you head inside.
2. Maintain firm control of single leg.
3. Keep arms tight to reduce chance for under hooks

Rolling overview:
I rolled 3 rounds one handed because my left hand is still giving me trouble. It is funny how some training partners are cool and will stay away from your injury and others could really give a damn if you are hurt. My buddy Pedro saw I was rolling one handed and put his arm under his belt as we rolled. Mi hermano!! Another guy I rolled with early actually grabbed my hand and squeezed it. Oh well it beats sitting out. I am really starting to research and drill my brabo chokes. I will be posting about it in the near future

Chad of MMAHitFit had us do his Workout of the Day today:

10 rounds of:
1 min of jumping guard
1 min of grip fighting
1 round of academy carrying your training partner.

I can really feel the difference that the crossfit is starting to have on my cardio. If you have a chance stop by and workout with Chad the Mad Scientist.

The hustle never stops..

33 of 200(picture day)

2010-02-20T13:08:00.000-08:00

Class 33 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 165 lbs.

Instructor: Marcos Torregrosa

Class Overview:
It was picture day over at Capital City BJJ so I went over there to train. We had a pretty big turnout.

Marcos continued his guard retention series and had us drilling keeping guard without using our hands. However your opponent is allowed to use his hand....Very tough!!

Capital City BJJ has a very nice academy
and I must say I love the big timeclock they have for keep time on the rounds.

Rolling overview:
I rolled two rounds but my left ring finger continues to hurt like hell. I was able to train one handed. On Monday I am going to Kaiser for x-rays but there is not much they can do.

I spoke with Marcos after class and he said I need to start working on my leglocks and refining my guard passing so be on the lookout.

The hustle never stops..

How bad do you want it.

2010-02-19T13:36:00.000-08:00

Class 32 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 165 lbs.

Instructor: Marcos Torregrosa

Class Overview:
Marcos had us working to regain position after the opponent ACTUALLY passes the guard into side control. He showed the initial setup into turtle position and a transition into a double leg when the opponent is passing with the "Over Under" pass(or Pancake pass) as it is shown in the following video:

Key points(Turtle/Double Leg):
1. Sit up and away before opponent before he establishes head control.
2. Turn into turtle position keeping elbows in tight.
3. Be aware of any collar grips as you finalize position.
4. Continue to turn in the direction that you sat up in and use near side arm to check the opponent's near side leg.

Rolling overview:
I rolled all the rounds but I probably broke my left ring finger after my training partner. He rips my seemly tight collar grip with both off hands and finger felt like I slammed it in a car door. I am going to train over at Capital City BJJ tommorrow with Marcos but it will probably be one handed.

Chad of MMAHitFit had us do his Workout of the Day today:

As many as possible rounds in 12 mins.
20 Double leg takedowns(setup and entry)
10 Jump Squats

I did 7 rounds and it was horrible!! My legs and back are completely fried..

The hustle never stops..

31 of 200

2010-02-17T20:48:00.001-08:00

Class 31 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 163 lbs.

Instructor: Marcos

Marcos had us drilling to defend the guard pass this week. Pretty much the same stuff we drilled on Monday. He also showed a cool entry to the reverse triangle/kimura and a reversal sweep off of a guard pass.

Key points(reverse triangle/kimura);
1. Control the space with inside knee.
2. Rock your opponent to create enough space to secure reverse triangle.
3. Continue to pull on the opponent's arm to tighten triangle.

Key Points(reverse sweep):
1. Off of the opponent's over under leg control he attempts to pass.
2. As the opponent passes the near leg and begins dropping shoulder onto your check push his near side arm in towards his chest(Toby suggested pushing at the elbow...good tip brah!).
3. Secure an over the back belt grip and pull on the belt as you bridge and roll under him to secure sweep.

Chad of MMAHitFit had me do his Tuesday WOD today:

Gi or No Gi.
4 rounds
25 pushups
25 pullups
25 situps
25 squats

I only rolled 3 rounds and my allergies are starting to act up. My cardio still is not where it needs to be. I have to make sure I drink my green shake in the morning and hit it hard in class. I have to push harder!!

The hustle never stops..

8 weeks until the Pan-Ams

2010-02-16T11:39:00.000-08:00

Class 30 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 163 lbs.

Instructor: Marcos

Marcos had us drilling to defend the guard pass this week. We were doing basic hip movement to defend the toreando pass as well as spinning through in order to take the back.

Key points:
1. Hip movement in order to get the space to move.
2. Using hands to control the distance between you and the opponent.

Chad(of MMAHitFit) began his 8-week Crossfit preparation for the 2010 BJJ Pans-Ams. Here is what the workout looked like:

With a training partner using a Gi or No Gi.
5 rounds
Row 500 meters
50 sit-outs
50 reverse hip escapes

It was not too bad in fact I did 6 rounds to push myself. However I know that the intensity is going to ramp up over the next few weeks. Looks like I will head over to Capital City BJJ and train some judo as well tonight.

The hustle never stops..

Unmountable - Defending against the mount

2010-02-14T20:13:00.000-08:00

As promised I broke down and shot the video for "Unmountable" last week. At my academy there are a couple of guys who have outstanding mount control so I started using the technique in this video to keep those guys off of the mount.

The biggest thing to remember is that the timing has to be right although compared to other movements in BJJ the margin for error is actually quite large. As long as you maintain control of the near-side leg and move your hips before the opponent finishes his move to the mount you are golden.

To be honest I am not really that comfortable in front of the camera but what the hell. We also shot two sweet videos with ADCC West Coast Trials Winner Marcos "Yemaso" Torregrosa so be on the look out for those next week.

29 of 200(Sciatica begins)

2010-02-12T21:23:00.000-08:00

Class 29 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 163 lbs.

Instructor: Cassio

Cassio showed a guard pass off a Butterfly sweep attempt today.

Key points:
1. Bring free leg back so that the opponent cannot underhook it.
2. Lift up on the opponent's inside leg(non-hooking leg) driving him back.
3. Secure top side underhook and drive weight forward opponent's head.
4. Continue to drive weight forward putting your head next to the opponents.
5. Drop hips and drive through into side control.

Even after the rest day yesterday my hip is in worst shape today. It appears that I am dealing with a touch of sciatica. It feels like I got kicked in the ass by a horse but come to think of it I should be used to getting my ass kicked by now.

The joy of being a middle-aged BJJ guy. I rolled three rounds and paid for it this evening.

We shot a bunch of video today with Marcos and Shavz. I should have it all edited by Tuesday so be on the look out for it in the next few weeks.

Cassio is interested in shooting some techniques on a regular basis. If I can get him to shoot something once a week that will be really cool. He had a funny blooper during our filming with Marcos.

My BJJ brother Chad Satterfield(BJJ brown belt and owner of MMAHITFIT) is starting an 8 week Crossfit program for the Pan-Ams in April. It is going to be 2 months of hell but our cardio is going to be off the hook.

Thanks for the help Chad...but you are still an evil man!!

The hustle never stops..

28 of 200

2010-02-11T07:01:00.000-08:00

Class 28 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 163 lbs.

Instructor: Cassio

Cassio reviewed more Sitting guard another meeting at work caused me to miss warm ups.

Key points:
1. Bring trapped knee to the mat
2. Secure underhook
3. Turn hips out slighty and sprawl out

I rolled every round but my right hip and low back are really tight making it really hard to play half or open guard. The hot epsom bath helped but I may take Thursday as a rest day.

I am starting to work through the problem I was having with Robson's side control.

Cassio helped me with the half guard back take.

Key points:
1. Use both arms to keep opponent over your hips.
2. Feed top lapel to your far side hand and drop elbow tight to the opponents back.
3. Come up onto knee like going to turtle.
4. Pull lapel while moving hips out going.

Have to get some more reps in.

The hustle never stops..

27 of 200

2010-02-09T13:00:00.000-08:00

Class 27 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 163 lbs.

Instructor: Cassio(no-gi)

Cassio reviewed more Half guard passing but unfortunately I was held up in a work meeting and missed all the techniques. That sucks!!

Key points: None

I rolled every round but I am feeling really stiff lately. I have to start stretching to increase my flexibility.

I attempted to work Robson's side control but was having problems controlling the near side arm. The key point that I was missing was turning the opponent onto his side and bringing shin against their back to trap the arm.

Have to get some more reps in.

The hustle never stops..

26 of 200

2010-02-09T06:45:00.000-08:00

Class 26 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 164 lbs.

Instructor: Cassio

Cassio reviewed Half guard passing and passing when the opponent sits up for a single leg.

Key points:
1. Get underhook
2. Control the near side arm
3. Head to floor (near side) next to the opponent's head
4. Keep hips low

I rolled every round and was pretty beat by the end of class.

Shavz and I drilled the techs for passing the half guard that Cassio showed us last week.

I am attempted to work Robson's s-mount to the back take but I am having problems getting the arm wraps. Gotta keep at it though.

The hustle never stops..

25 of 200

2010-02-08T06:57:00.000-08:00

Class 25 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 164 lbs.

Instructor: Cassio

Cassio reviewed the De La Riva sweeps. I was paired up with Eric again he is a good training partner. He is very active and rolls competively.

I sat out for one round but next week I have to start turning up the intensity and not sitting out any rounds.

I am still working Robson Moura's side control and half guard stuff. I am struggling with the Half guard duck under hook sweep I have to get some reps with Shavz.

Cassio showed some good techs for passing the half guard. The big thing is to use the leg down to control the guy's bottom leg while switching sides with hips down.

24 of 200

2010-02-05T11:00:00.000-08:00

Class 24 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 164 lbs.

Instructor: Cassio

Cassio reviewed the hook sweep to taking the back and sweeping from the x-guard. All in all it a been a good week which focused on attacks from the close guard.

I am starting to feel much lighter although I think I may be overtraining. I am feeling tired and broke down before class.

However next week I have to start turning up the intensity and not sitting out any rounds.

I continue to try to work Robson Moura's side control and half guard stuff. I was showing his s-mount to RNC in class today. Once it is setup it is almost impossible to stop. Perhaps I will show it in video at some point.

23 of 200

2010-02-05T07:31:00.000-08:00

Class 23 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 165 lbs.

Instructor: Cassio

No-gi class and Cassio reviewed the hook sweep from the closed guard to the kick over single leg sweep.

Good rolls today although I am still working that half guard and transition sweeps.

22 of 200

2010-02-03T10:20:00.000-08:00

Class 22 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 165 lbs.

Instructor: Cassio

I got out late from meeting at work and missed warmups and all techniques.

I am still working that half guard and transition sweeps. Still had some really good rolls though. I can feel my timing getting better.

Started checking out Robson Moura's Super NoGi series...very nice stuff. I will be reviewing this DVD soon.

21 of 200(Cassio's return)

2010-02-01T13:53:00.000-08:00

Class 21 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 165 lbs.

Instructor: Cassio

Cassio return from Brazil after vacation. We went of the hook sweep when your opponent stands in your closed guard and a triangle varation after the sweep.

No easy rolls today. I trained with Marcos, Brad, Chad and Eric my cardio is beginning to hold up quite well. Starting to hold my own and attack a lot more.

I gotta try to get in for training on Wednesday if my work meeting gets off early. The San Jose Judo tournament is next Sunday so if I am going to compete I have to get in to judo class this week.

20 of 200 - Flying Triangles

2010-02-01T06:07:00.000-08:00

Class 20 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 167 lbs.

Instructor: Marcos

Marcos went over three different entries into the flying triangle and none of them seem to work for me.

I even went as far as breaking out the Mino HD and trying to figure out what I was doing wrong but after watching my clumsy attempts I will not be posting them here.

As much as I do not like to I am going to have to start drilling techinque at least twice a week and getting my two days a week of Judo. The Pan-Ams are in 10 weeks so it is time to put up or shut up.

19 of 200

2010-01-27T07:37:00.000-08:00

Class 19 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 166 lbs.

Instructor: Chad

Chad was covering for Marcos who was out sick. He went over headlock escapes from side control. Good self-defense techiques!!

Had some good rolls but got completely smashed by Nate(brown). Definately gave me some things to work on before the Pan-Ams and Mundials.

18 of 200

2010-01-26T06:10:00.000-08:00

Class 18 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 166 lbs.

Instructor: Derrick(no-gi)

Derrick went over taking the back from turtle control and a seatbelt grip.

On of his key tips was to run the guy forward with the grips to break his base before looking to pull him into a back taking position.

He also showed a pretty cool one hand rear naked using your head to finish the choke.

Starting to recovery my strength even though I still have a few more days of the antibotics and I only rolled every round and the energy felt good. Tomorrow is a rest day unless my meeting at work gets cancelled.

16 of 200

2010-01-25T07:07:00.000-08:00

Class 16 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 168 lbs.

Instructor: Marcos

Marcos reviewed all of his half guard passing techniques for the week.

I still feel drained because of the antibotics and I only rolled once because I did not want the ear swelling up again.

Happy hunting to the guys from my academy who are going down to ADCC trials in Santa Cruz.

17 of 200

2010-01-25T06:01:00.000-08:00

Class 17 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 167 lbs.

Instructor: Marcos

Marcos went over good ol' fashioned cross chokes from the guard. Cross chokes are basic jiu-jitsu but that does not mean they are easily mastered.

My fingers are in such bad shape from years of abuse I tend to shy away from cloth choke but I need to start working more gi chokes.

Props to my boy Marcos "Yemaso" Torregrosa for winning gold at the ADCC West Coast trials and earning a trip to Abu Dhabi. Happy Hunting at ADCC in April 2010.

15 of 200

2010-01-23T07:26:00.000-08:00

Class 15 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 167 lbs.

Instructor: Marcos

Marcos went over a cross knee pass from the half guard and a cross choke that is available from that pass.

I felt a little drained because of the antibotics and my ear swelled up again but all in all my rolling was fine.

I have to shoot unmountable next week for sure. I have been using this principal against everyone including a certain black belt with much success.

Be on the look out for the unmountable post coming soon.

Pan Ams are coming soon gotta keep grinding.

Happy hunting to the guys from my academy who are going down to ADCC trials in Santa Cruz.

14 of 200

2010-01-21T06:18:00.000-08:00

Class 14 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 167 lbs.

Instructor: Marcos

Marcos went over a shoulder/wrist lock combo and a back take from half guard (top).

Crossfit was light today:

1000 meters rowing
40 sit outs
50 situps

I noticed my earlobe was huge after training today so I went to the doctor and found out it was an boil and I got antibotics to treat it.

I am taking a rest day today trying to get the swelling to go down some so I can train fri and sat.

13 of 200

2010-01-18T20:06:00.000-08:00

Class 13 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 168 lbs.

Instructor: Marcos

Marcos went over his pressure control techniques from the top half guard.

Key points being:
1. Open the top lapel.
2. Reach around the head and grab top lapel under the opponents armpit.
3. Make sure the elbow stays in contact with the floor.
4. Drive shoulder into the opponent's neck by dropping weight and not squeezing.

Marcos also went over a back take to a lapel choke the was really sweet. I will be refilming it soon.

Started ramping for the Pan-ams with a crossfit workout after class today:

7 rounds of:
-15 thrusters
-12 pullups
- 9 vert jumps

Brown belt also showed me a tip one getting your knee through to the opponent's hip when going for the kimura on the bottom half guard.

12 of 200

2010-01-16T21:38:00.000-08:00

Class 12 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 168 lbs.

Instructor: Marcos

Marcos reviewed the back taking he had been showing all week. I got completely wrecked by Marcos today...it was beyond ugly but I know I can execute much better. Furthermore I have start imposing my game instead of reacting.

I have to start ramping up my training for the Pan-ams in April.

Saturday is my cheat day so I grubbed BIGTIME at my buddies playoff party but no drinks.

I have been killing people(except Marcos) with that 2 on 1 control so I am adding it to my competition BJJ gameplan. I just have to work out some gripping and positional issues that I had using it against Marcos. If I can get it so that it is effective enough to for him to change his guard then I can start transitioning into my x-guard game.

More to come God willing.

11 of 200

2010-01-16T10:02:00.000-08:00

Class 11 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 168 lbs.

Instructor: Marcos

Marcos showed another back take from the closed guard that I plan on putting into my BJJ gameplan. The crossfit after class kicked my butt. Chad is an evil man.

I have to start ramping up my training for the Pan-ams in April.

Saturday is my cheat day so I plan on grubbing for dinner.

One more class on Saturday to close out the week.

More to come God willing

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

10 of 200

2010-01-15T07:08:00.000-08:00

Class 10 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 167 lbs.

Instructor: Marcos

My team meeting got cancelled so I got a chance to train on Weds. Marcos showed a dope back take from the half-guard. I plan on reshooting this for the site in the near future.

Today is also my brother birthday so we are going to Mikuni's so I expect the weight to be up tomorrow.

I really have to on finishing kimuras on stronger opponents maybe get some reps in this weekend.

More to come God willing

9 of 200

2010-01-12T19:59:00.000-08:00

Class 9 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 166 lbs.

Instructor: Derrick

We went over some back takes from leg wraps. Really good no-gi stuff.

Fought off a footlock today but I am paying for it now. My foot is sore like I stepped on a rock. Soaked in epsom salt bath tonight..helps the aches and pains.

My cardio is really starting to improve with all the training but my body needs a rest. Unless my meeting at work gets cancelled I am taking Weds as a rest day.

That crossfit yesterday still has me broken down.

The hustle never stops so I can't stop hustling.

8 of 200

2010-01-11T17:39:00.000-08:00

Class 8 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 166 lbs.

Instructor: Marcos

More back taking only this time from the deep half guard. Marcos showed a really nice transition using the outside hook and ducking underneath.

Did crossfit today and it was horrible. I need crossfit but I really hate it. Chad is an evil man.

The body is holding up although I forgot my green smoothie at home and had no energy today. I will be hitting up no-gi tomorrow...God willing.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

7 of 200

2010-01-10T06:16:00.000-08:00

Class 7 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 167 lbs.

Instructor: Marcos

Marcos decided to go "bear crawl" crazy and has the class doing them for like 10 mins straight during warmups.

More work on taking the back and several roll thru chokes using the gi. Took a vicious knee to the groin during training..thank God I was wearing a cup though.

Got handled(again) rolling with Brad. Gotta step up my strength training next week and at least two judo classes.

Shooting for the San Jose judo tourney on Feb. 14th

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

6 of 200

2010-01-08T19:37:00.000-08:00

Class 6 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 168 lbs.

Instructor: Marcos

Did controlling the turtle and taking the back...very much needed.

Marcos also showed a sweet shin behind the head roll thru choke from the turtle position.

I can feel the gas getting better..154lbs here I come. More green smoothies but tomorrow is my cheat day...hello sushi!!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

5 of 200

2010-01-07T20:49:00.000-08:00

Class 5 of 200 BJJ classes
Weight 169 lbs.

My shoulder is bothering me quite a bit after judo on Tuesday but I trained no-gi at Cassio's today.

Derek showed some butterfly sweeps including the body lock sweep. My shoulder was toast after rolling with Jaime the first round.

I hit up a green smoothie(kale, carrot, apple, wheatgrass) and the energy was good today.

I am going to take a mortin 800 and try to get the swelling in my shoulder down so I can train tomorrow.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Still I rise

2010-01-06T07:27:00.000-08:00

Class 4 of 200 in BJJ
Class 1 of 100 in Judo

I trained back to back yesterday and I am suffering from the after effects today.

Some good news is that I weighed in at 169 this morning down 6 pounds in the past two weeks. I simply cut out all processed foods(no animal products) and started making green smoothies every morning. I can feel the difference in my energy and cardo.

Year of the Dragon - 2010

2010-01-05T13:25:00.000-08:00

One my New Year's Resolutions is to start blogging more(at least about BJJ). The other was to attend at least 200 BJJ classes during the year.

So far I am at class #197.

I promise to post more stuff this year as as I make a serious push for the Pan Ams and Mundials.

Gi Subs 1 - The Chokes iPhone App

2009-08-20T07:04:00.000-07:00

One of the black belts(Marcos Torregrosa) from my school has released releasing a BJJ app for the iPhone/iPod touch called "Gi Sub - The Chokes".

It is a pretty sweet application for those that train with the Gi. There are some chokes on it that I have never seen before.

It is available on the the Apple App Store:

Here are a couple of the techniques for the iPhone application:

Any feedback you might have would be appreciated.

Capital City BJJ

2008-12-31T14:29:00.000-08:00

If you live in South Sacramento, CA you might want to check out Capital City BJJ
Headed by Cassio Werneck black belt Marcos Torregrosa and Terry Maxwell, Capital City BJJ offers superior instruction and training for men, women and children, a comfortable atmosphere for both newcomers and those returning to the sport, and the opportunity to learn from some of the best BJJ practitioners in Sacramento, California.

BJJ Game Plan

2006-10-08T13:15:00.000-07:00

This is my first attempt at a complete written game plan for BJJ. This a work in progress and I will be adding and removing content until I am comfortable with it.

Closed Guard Attacks Series

1.) Button hook Series (Two on one can be used!!)

Setup: i. Cross Grip(Right Hand) ii. Button Hook(Left Hand) far side grapping lapel before releasing iii. Right Hand to Shoulder iv. Hip out to the left v. Thigh up on elbow (Right Leg staying hooked)

a. Armlock - If opp. does not defend near side hip out move.

b. Far side Arm bar - If I am able to control the far side arm with the button hook.

c. Triangle - If opp. defends but far arm is free. Bring far leg through and finish.

c. Cross choke - If overhook is deep enough and opp. neck is undefended.

d. Sweep - If opp. far arm is controlled. Apply scissor sweep to that side

2.) Reverse Kimura grip series – If I cannot move hips to the outside or button hook cannot be setup.

Setup: i. Two on one on opp. right hand ii. Push opp. right hand into his belly as far as I can. iii. Use knees to bring opp. forward iv. Overhook opp. right arm with my left arm v. Attempt to escape hips to my left. vi. Left arm hooks opp. right bicep

a. Wrist lock - If I cannot move hips out
b. Triangle - If I can push opp. hand through

c. Go to Back(Arm drag) - If opp. pushes into to me
i. Two on one on opp. right hand ii. Push opp. right hand into his belly. i. Use knees to bring opp. forward ii. Use right arm to pull opp. through to the ground left arm iii. Escape hips to my left. iv. Take his back v. Apply RNC

Closed Guard Sweeps Series

1.) Button hook Series (Two on one can be used!!)
2.) Scissor Sweep
3.) Pendulum sweep
4.) Hip heist sweep
5.) Marcelo Hook and Roll
vii. Two on one on my opp. arm
viii. Close distance(Bring chest to his chest) and bring opp. using legs
ix. Bring Overhooked arm around behind head(Pressure with elbow).
x. Underhook far arm and clasp hand.
xi. Get far side leg hook(inside hook).
xii. Lift with under hook and chop near leg (scissor style).

3.) Closed Guard Passes Series – Scenario: I am in my Opp. guard

a. Saulo Pass(If I am in opp. closed guard)
i. Use my left hand to control opp. belt or gi pants with elbow controlling hips.
ii. Use my right hand to control gi pants at knee with downward pressure
iii. Come up onto right foot far enough away from opp. not to be hooked.
iv. Bring rotating to right with right leg while dropping hips back to open guard.
v. Side left knee over opp. right thigh(keeping low)
vi. Side body through securing side control

b. Standing Pass(If I am in opp. closed guard)
i. Use my left hand to control opp. belt or gi pants with elbow controlling hips.
ii. Use my right hand to control opp. left gi sleeve.
iii. Stand with right leg applying pressure from right.
iv. Stand with left leg applying pressure from both sides with knees.
v. Apply downward pressure with left hand to opp. left knee.
vi. Thrust hips forward and shake off guard.
vii. Side left knee over opp. right thigh(keeping low)
viii. Side body through securing side control.

c. Marcelo Wrist trap Pass #1(Standing)
i. Get arm control on opp. biceps.
ii. Trap wrist to the ground
iii. Post head on upper body
iv. Stand up(raising my hips and opp hips)
v. Circle hand around opp. body.
vi. Feed wrist to opposite hand
vii. Scoop Head and Stand up
viii. Push down on inside of knee
ix. Pass guard

d. Marcelo Wrist trap Pass #2(Down to knees)
i. Get arm control on opp. biceps.
ii. Trap wrist to the ground
iii. Post head on upper body
iv. Stand up(raising my hips and opp hips)
v. Circle hand around opp. body.
vi. Feed wrist to opposite hand
vii. Come back down to the ground
viii. Right arm across opp. face(Elbow against opp ear)
ix. Switch wrist grip to right hand.
x. Sit on side and use left hand to free guard.

Open Guard Series

1.) TBD

Half Guard Series

1.) Escapes Series (Two on one can be used!!)

a. Armlock
i. Cross Grip(Right Hand)
ii. Button Hook(Left Hand) far side grapping lapel before releasing
iii. Right Hand to Shoulder
iv. Hip out to the left
Thigh up on elbow (Right Leg staying hooked)
2.) Passes Series
3.) Submissions Series(Two on one can be used!!)
a. Kimura
ix. Right Hand to Shoulder
x. Hip out to the left
b. Barbo choke
xi. Right Hand to Shoulder
xii. Hip out to the left

Closed Guard Series

4.) Overhook Series (Two on one can be used!!)
c. Armlock
Setup: Cross Grip(Right Hand)
xiv. Button Hook(Left Hand) far side grapping lapel before releasing
xv. Right Hand to Shoulder
xvi. Hip out to the left
xvii. Thigh up on elbow (Right Leg staying hooked)

Side Control Series

1.) Cap’n Crunch Series (Two on one can be used!!)

2.) Kesa Gateme Series (Two on one can be used!!)

3.) To the back

4.) Near side armbar

5.) Gi chokes

6.) Escapes
i. Cross Grip(Right Hand)
ii. Button Hook(Left Hand) far side grapping lapel before releasing
iii. Right Hand to Shoulder
iv. Hip out to the left
v. Thigh up on elbow (Right Leg staying hooked)
vi. Finish Arm lock.

Back Control Series

1.) TBD

Mount Control Series

1.) TBD

Turtle Guard Series

1.) TDB

Goals:
• Get more sweeps from various positions
• Improve Guard game (Open and closed) to gain more submissions
• Get proficient in cross and X-Guard
• Get proficient in Triangle – Omoplata – Arm Bar chain
• Get proficient in Half-Guard sweeps
• Master Saulo Riberio JJ Rev. DVDs(Watch at least 1 hour per week)
• Master Marcelo Garcia X-Guard and Back DVDs(Watch at least 1 hour per week)

Takedown Series - Scenario: From Knees

1.) Arm drag series
2.) Pull Full Guard
3.) Pull Half Guard
4.) Cross Arm Sweep
5.) Uchi Mata Sweep

O Gurma

2006-07-12T17:29:00.000-07:00

I know this is a Judo throw(not BJJ) but I love this throw I must learn it!!

When the attacker punches, block and step through with a deep step — you need to get your advancing foot almost level with their rear foot. Turn through 180° while gripping under their rear armpit or by the belt if they're tall (and you're not). Using this hand, draw his balance forward, but not so he's bent over. When he's on the verge of falling, bring your leg up and backwards into his stomach, while continuing to draw him forwards — he should wheel about your leg.

As Sensei John Hamer will tell you, o-guruma is one of a continuing set of throws each of which is applicable depending upon how far you step through: koshi-guruma (if your feet end up between the attacker's feet), ashi-guruma (if you step through a little further), uchi-mata (if your feet end up either side of his rear foot) and o-guruma (if you pass his feet altogether). So even if you can't do the throw you originally planned because you've stepped through too far, there's always an alternative throw you can do instead.

Common mistakes:

* Not stepping far enough
* Not turning through enough
* Not getting the leg high enough
* Trying to execute the throw before you've taken the attacker's balance
* Losing your balance
* Making him bend in the middle
* Standing too far away from the attacker when trying to perform the throw

Back in the swing of things

2006-07-06T09:41:00.000-07:00

I have been back training since mid-May and things have been going fairly well. The groin is still about 80% and I have to wrap it before every training session but it is a small price to pay.

Overall I think my gi game is progressing what I have been trying to do is focus on basic movements and chaining submissions. I also recently purchased Eduardo Telles New Turtle Guard DVD and so far I am very impressed(I plan on doing a more detailed review in a future blog).

I had been using the turtle guard as a transition when my guard is passed but after Eduardo Telles dvd I am not using it to launch attacks and for sweeps.

I have been also been trying to roll with bigger/stronger guys in order to force myself to use more techinique. It's hard on the ego but benefits me in the long run.

Cassio has had us doing position rolling(for about the past two weeks) where one guy starts in a dis-advantaged position and must escape while his training partner goes for the submission. This has been very helpful because it has given me an opportunit y to work on escapes.

In addition I have the opportunity to improve positions I normally stay away from like "mount" because in the past I have had trouble keeping control from that position.

More to come...God Willing.

Peace,
TMG

Malik's wins his Judo pool and Dad pulls groin

2006-04-17T13:45:00.000-07:00

That's right sports fan I have been out of action since April 4, 2006 due to a groin strain that I received in Judo class. Suck for me and I'll be out until at least May 1, 2006. I have seen a doctor and they have started me on physical therapy I will blog my progress..keep your fingers crossed!!

On happier note my son Malik won the 11-12 year old white/yellow belt pool at the Okubo Invitational Tournament. Here is some video from one of his matches:

Words and cannot express how proud I am of him...good job!!

Cassio's Side Control Submission Sequence

2006-03-31T21:13:00.000-08:00

Lately I have really be working on sequence-based submissions. What that means is chaining together submission attempts together based on your opponents response to prior attempts.

In class today Cassio showed is a flowing submission sequence (Kimura to Armbar to Triangle to Oma Plata):

Position: Have opponent in side control with far arm controlling near hip and the opponent's far arm trapped between your face and shoulder by your near arm.

Step #1:
Rotate counter-clock wise dropping your near knee on to opponent's near shoulder and far knee pinching into opponent's back. As this is doing you are pulling the opponent up towards near leg. Secure Kimura.

Step #2:
If opponent defends the kimura, then bring far leg up against opponent's back. Fall back into armbar.

Step #3:
If opponent rolls out of armbar, then transition into Triangle. Making sure to control opponent's near arm and far hip.

Step #4:
If opponent wraps leg then transition into Oma Plata

After a two week break due to some family business it is good to be back training. Look for more techinques real soon.

"forca a horna"

Saulo Riberio Jiu-Jitsu Resolution - Half Guard Sweeps

2006-02-19T12:21:00.000-08:00

Saulo Riberio Five commandments of the Half Guard:

Commandment #1 - "Thou shall not to get flatten out on back"
Get on your side as soon as possible. because getting flat make half-guard movement very difficult.

Commandment #2 - "Thou shall not get crossfaced"
Getting crossfaced takes away half of your control. Use bottom arm to defend the the crossface while making sure not to extend arm.

Commandment #3 - "Thou shall get underhook"
Getting underhook means that the opponent cannot attack the head without you going to his back. The underhook is a key component of most half-guard sweeps. Keep top arm tight to body to ensure that opponent does not get underhook. Grab belt when possible!!

Commandment #4 - "Thou shall use top knee to control distance"
The knee is the last resort if the opponent is able to open half guard.

Commandment #5 - "Thou shall crunch body up under opponent body"
This allows you to Getting underhook means that the opponent cannot attack the head without you going to his back. The underhook is a key component of most half-guard sweeps.

Ok..enough with the fluff some of the more memoriable Half Guard pass techniques.

Half Guard Sweep #1 :

Feed trapped leg to out side hook and stretch him out.
Near arm comes over to secure the leg(May not be needed).
Come up on bottom elbow.
Squeeze knees together and pull trapped leg out from under opponent.
Drive weight towards opponent to complete sweep.

Half Guard Sweep #2 (If opponent kicks over during #1):

Under hook opponent's near leg with your far leg.
Kick hook over and follow opponent

Half Guard Sweep #3(As opponent switches hips on a the pass) :

Get on side
Get up on elbow
Use top elbow on opponent back to grab his belt.
As opponent drives his weight down bring leg up.
Scoot hips under and around opponent.
Take his back and choke him out.
Squeeze knees together and pull trapped leg out from under opponent.
Drive weight towards opponent to complete sweep.

Saulo Riberio's Jiu-Jitsu Resolution - Half Guard Passes

2006-02-19T11:53:00.000-08:00

First off let me just say that Saulo Riberio Jiu-Jitsu Resolution is the best GI series on the market today. I love this dude's game because it's all about technique. In Saulo's own words "Too much strength...you are going to get tired. Jiu-Jitsu is not about strength."

As it relates to passing the half guard Saulo first rule(one that applies to every pass) is:
"Flatten you opponent out before you start the pass.(Circle towards feet)"

Ok..enough with the fluff some of the more memoriable Half Guard pass techniques.

Half Guard Pass #1 :

Get near arm under opponent. shoulder
Drop head over to opposite side.
Raise hips and get up on toes
Drop trapped knee over opponent inside thigh
Switch hips inside and bring knee thru
Secure side control

Note: A elbow lock can be obtained from Half Guard Pass #1 by reversing body position and locking trapped shoulder.

Half Guard Pass #2(Not able to get near arm under shoulder):

Switch side by turning back to opponent's head.
Use near arm to lock in opponent's hip.
Walk trapped foot up until knee clears half guard.
Use far knee(bottom) to trap opponent's bottom hip.
Pull trapped leg free
Switch hips
Secure side control

Half Guard Pass #3 to mount(Not able to get near arm under shoulder):

Switch side by turning back to opponent's head.
Use near arm to lock in opponent's hip.
Bring back up to opponent's chin
Walk trapped foot up until knee clears half guard.
Switch hip over and drop knee to near side(as if to mount).
Bring head across to far side and secure near shoulder.
Bring far leg inside to free trapped leg
Secure mount

Half Guard Pass #4 (Trap hips):

Move back and drop chest onto opponent's hips.
Secure overarm lock on hips.
Bring head to far side.
Move hips towards trapped leg.
Extend trapped leg.
Secure side control.

Half Guard Pass #5 (Saulo's favorite):

Opponent gets underhook.
Secure overhook on opponent's arm and grab his belt..
Adjust body switching hips toward far side.
Swing far leg up and over to sit on opponent's near side.
Grab top leg at the knee.
Use free leg to push on opponent's bottom knee.
Switch hips
Secure side control.

Saulo Riberio Jiu-Jitsu Resolution - Guard

2006-01-23T18:45:00.000-08:00

More notes from Saulo Riberio's Jiu-Jitsu Resolution. Good stuff.

Riberio Sweep(Tech. #2):

Grab right pants leg at knee.
Grab left sleeve.
Drop left foot tight against opp. right foot
Move hips slightly to left side(Stay tight!!).
Bring forward to create momentum
Move back and bring right leg up and around under opp. armpit

Saulo Riberio JJ Resolution - Mount

2006-01-23T18:03:00.000-08:00

First off let me just say how impressed I am with the entire Saulo Riberio Jiu-Jitsu Resolution set as whole. Very good stuff dude worth the money.

Overall notes:

Get hooks in to rest or transition
Weight down

Mount Escape #1 - Forward resistance

Create arm frame on opp. waist(Hand over fist) - Do not push!!
Bump over shoulder
Bring bottom leg through for half guard

Note: As soon as you get mounted place arm frame in place.

If "hooks in".....

lock in his hooks tight
Use opposite foot to free bottom hook

If "knee are high"

Move hips and legs to create space
Secure arm frame

Mount Escape #2 - No forward resistance

Bump(side) but not over the shoulder instead up like hip heist escape
Use top arm to "pinch" leg at the knee(Elbow is lever)
Follow through with hips just like hip heist escape.

Transition to knee on belly choke from mount(Very Nice!):

Grab collar and open right collar
Reach left hand across to inside right collar(thumb-in) not so deep make sure to keep arm
Move to left and place opp. and dismount into knee on belly(right).
Drop left elbow down toward mat.
Reach right arm in(under)and secure opp. right elbow
Step up on left leg dropping down leg to finish the choke.

Ezekiel Choke mount

Get hooks and one hand under head. (Use forearm in throat to get opp. to lift leg)
Drive off hand through opp. off hand until elbow reaches floor.
Then drive head to opp. off hand to move elbow off
Make lock in tight grabbing inside sleeve and across neck to finish choke

Combo Attack(Choke & Armbar) from S-mount(Very Nice!)

Grab collar and open right collar
Reach left hand across to inside right collar(thumb-in) not so deep make sure to keep arm in contact with body.
Side right knee around until touch opp. head making sure to lock foot against hip.
Wait and see how opp. defends.

If "opp. defends choke"...then take armbar!!
If "opp. defends armbar"..then take choke!!

Cross Choke from Mount(Notes):

Not to deep grip
Base out on either foot.
Raise body up to finish choke

Promotion to Blue Belt

2005-12-21T15:24:00.000-08:00

That's right boys and girls yours truly was promoted to the rank on Blue Belt on Dec. 16, 2005.

To be honest I was a little surprised that Cassio decided to promote me before his trip back to Brazil from the holidays.

Overall I'm flattered but not 100% sure that I truly deserve it. While I can see some definate progress there are still some pretty big holes in my game but I have been trying to increase my mat time(4 times a week for the last 3 weeks) focusing on conditioning and postioning.

The major areas I am working to improve are:

1.) Conditioning-Although it's alot better than before I still need some serious work. Much respect to crossfit.com for all of the help so far.

2.) Positioning-Specifically when dealing with guys who come from wrestling background. I'm still having trouble getting position at the start of a roll and wasting a lot of energy defending and escaping instead of attacking.

3.) Sweeps-I have picked up some guard and half-guard sweeps, now I am trying to adapt them to be body type for maximum effectiveness.

The thing about the promotion is now it forces me to step my game up which is a good thing overall. However I do not ever want to become so afraid to get beat that I stop attempting techinques.

This BJJ thing is a marathon and not a sprint.

"forca a horna"
TMG

Getting back in the grove..Double attacks from the guard

2005-11-25T14:49:00.000-08:00

After 2 months of sporatic attendance to class I'm finally starting to get back to my 2-3 times a week routine. It's been tough because I been getting it handed to me for like the past 2 weeks.

Anyway I have been reading the BJJ MasterText which I highly recommend to anyone starting out in BJJ and I thought I'd record a few notes on double attacks from the:

1.) Hip Heist sweep to Kimura - This a damn good idea and I'm surprised I haven't thought of it.

2.) Key Lock to Arm bar from side control

3.) Cross choke to Arm bar from the mount

Sneaky little side control choke

2005-09-08T09:01:00.000-07:00

This little gem is courtesy of the Cesar Gracie Jui-Jitsu Advanced Disc 3

Arm and Leg choke from side control

Setup: Top with opponent in side control
Grip: Near arm under head on lapel, off arm trapping opponent's off arm,

Important points:

1.) From good side control run near arm under opponent's head and get lapel grip(thumb in and four fingers out).
2.) Off arm over opponent's off arm trapping... if possible!
3.) Switch base with bottom leg forward and top leg back.
4.) Lean forward..a little and pass top leg over to other side of opponent's head.
5.) Hook head and pull arm thru to finish submission.

Transition to Side choke

Note: Used if during the previous choke you opponent's off arm is freed and he pushing hooking leg off of head.

Steps 1-3 are the same
4.) Swing head in under opponent's off arm(the arm that is pushing the hook leg off) while bring ing the hand hold lapel around neck to opponent's off side.
5.) Switch base and bring bottom knee in and across opponent's off side.
6.) Finish the submission.

Side Control Escapes

2005-09-07T19:53:00.000-07:00

Instructor: Cassio

These are techinques that I really need to get down cold.

==== Wednesday class (9-07-2005) ====

Underarm(near arm) hip out

Setup: Bottom in opponent's side control(Side headlock).
Grip: N/A

Important points:

1.) Drive arm inside
2.) Hip out and scissor
3.) Drive weight toward opponent's outside knee.
4.) Grab outside knee and driving opponent into side control.

Underarm(outside arm) w/ choke

Setup: Bottom in opponent's side control(Side headlock).
Grip: N/A
Note: Cannot get arm thru to do previous escape.

Important points:

1.) Drive arm under opponent's body(across belly).
2.) Scissor inside
3.) Continue around to north-south and reach arm inside to start choke.
4.) thread non-choking arm thru under arm and around behind head.
5.) Duck head and roll

-- Rolling Results --

Negatives(s):
a.) Giving up back way too often.
b.) Playing too defensive.

Positive(s):
a.) Decent hip movement early on in maintaing guard
b.) Used Scissor sweep to get reversal.
c.) Decent guard passes.

Sweeps..De La Riva and Closed Guard

2005-09-01T09:16:00.000-07:00

I am going to try to go to a weekly format for posting instead of everyday..we will see how it goes. All in all this week I feel like a pretty much SUCKED. I'm not trusting my techinque enough and still using a lot of strength. This is turn is causing me to get very fatigued during training at which time all techinque goes out the window.

This week Cassio primary focused on different sweeps:

==== Tuesday class (9-30-2005) ====

Reverse De La Riva sweep

Setup: Bottom Open Guard with opponent standing
Grip: Sleeves

Important points:

1.) Place foot on opponent hip and push to drive his leg backwards.
2.) Under hook foot/ankle on the opposite side of the leg that is pushed back(step #1).
3.) Arch back and thread the leg of the hooked foot/ankle side through opponent's leg
4.) Roll weight backward to complete sweep in mount.

Reverse De La Riva overhead sweep

Setup: same as previous
Grip: Lapel and Sleeve

Important points:

1.) Steps #1 -3 from previous
4.) Maintain grip on lapel and use the hand that was hooking ankle to reach up and grab opponents belt.
5.) Reverse foot position and squeeze feet together to get a firm hook on opponent's outer thigh
6.) Pull Lapel and Belt in one motion along with pulling hook in loading opponent's weight over your hips.
7.) Extend legs and hips up over head and maintain grips. The opponents momentum should pull you into mount.

-- Rolling Results --

Negatives(s):
a.) Wasted too much energy trying to muscle and gassed out.
b.) Still having trouble with Knee on Belly escapes
c.) Poor balance in 100-Kilo lead to mulitple reversals
d.) Smashed head trying to "Gator roll"...gotta get that head on the opponent's side

Positive(s):
a.) Defended fairly well against upper belt.
b.) Decent hip movement early on in maintaing guard
c.) Used Royce Gracie side control choke to get a submission

==== Wednesday class (9-31-2005) ====

Closed guard sweep

Setup: Bottom Closed Guard with opponent on knees
Grip: Lapel

Important points:

1.) Opponent stands and as he does you under hook on foot.
2.) While keeping closed guard extend hips and arch back to the opposite side of the hooked foot and pull foot toward your body at the same time to execute sweep.

Closed Guard to knee hook sweep

Setup: same as previous
Grip: Lapels as in cross choke

Important points:

1.) Opponent stands
2.) Side closed guard down legs until your feet are right below the knees.
3.) Load up oppponent over hips by pulling lapels and bring hooked knee over body.
4.) Extend hooks on knees straight up and then over to execute sweep.

-- Rolling Results --

Negatives(s):
a.) Wasted too much energy trying to muscle and gassed out.
b.) Had trouble passing guard(Kept getting ankle grabbed while trying to stand)

Positive(s):
a.) Defended sweep attemtps fairly well.

Promotion Day..but not for me.

2005-08-20T18:25:00.000-07:00

Well I'm back from a week's vacation in the Sausalito with my wife(and girlfriend).

I returned in time to attend my first promotion ceremony. Lots of good BJJ guys got their due in getting promoted.

The surprise of the day was "Brown Belt" Richard getting promoted to Black belt. Big props to Richard on a huge achievement.

With my batteries recharged I plan on training at least 4 times a week until the holidays. My guard game is coming along slow but it's coming along.

I promise to be more diligent in my blogging.

Peace,
TMG

More side control escapes

2005-08-06T20:15:00.000-07:00

Class: Saturday
Instructor: Ernest

The whole focus was again drills based on escaping side control.

Side control escape

Setup: Side control

Important points:

1.) Hip out while pushing with forearms
2.) Bringing outside arm under opponents armpit.
3.) Bring inside leg up and under to obtain half-guard.
4.) Make sure you get shoulder inside onto sterum and turn on side.
5.) Finish by closing into closed guard

============= Rolling Results ================

Roll #1
Opponent: Dustin
Rank: Blue(but not really)

Result: Got submitted by arnbar and triangle.

Error(s):
a.) Wasted too much energy trying to muscle Dustin and gassed out.

Positive(s):
a.) Defended numerious armbar attempts.

Roll #2
Opponent: Wes
Rank: White(but not really)

Result: Got submitted by clock choke that almost broken my jaw. I should have heel hooked to defend.

Error(s):
a.) Wasted too much energy in prior match with Dustin and gassed out.
b.) Allowed guard pass into side control..(knee on belly)
c.) Didn't get to side before knee on belly came.
d.) Tucked chin in to defend choke the wrong way.

Positive(s):
a.) Defended numerious choke attempts.

Roll #3
Opponent: Jack
Rank: White

Result: Got submission via cross choke.

Error(s):
a.) Missed decent armbar attempt due to by allowing too much distance.

Positive(s):
a.) Able to get side control
b.) Able to get in good position to execute good armbar attempt.
c.) Defended one serious guard pass attempt.

SIde control escape

2005-08-03T20:30:00.000-07:00

Class: Noon
Instructor: Cassio Werneck

The whole focus of the was drill based on escaping side control.

Side control escape and sweep/a>

Setup: Side control

Important points:
1.) Use forearms(do not grip) under opponent's chest
2.) Hip out while pushing with forearms
3.) Bring inside arm under opponent's arm and arch over toward opposite wall
4.) Come up into seated position bring outside foot in as hook. (Note: You gotta get make sure you have enough space between you and you opponent to come up into seated position.)
5.) Bring opposite shoulder to the and lift hook at the same time to complete the sweep.

============= Rolling Results ================

Roll #1
Opponent: Dustin
Rank: White

Result: Got three armbar submissions. Dustin was just coming back after a week lay-off..welcome back brah!

Error(s):
a.) Allowed guard pass into side control.

Positive(s):
a.) Able to break opponent's posture from closed guard.
b.) Able to break opponent's posture.
c.) Defended two serious guard pass attemtps.

Roll #2
Opponent: Dan
Rank: Blue

Result: Submitted by Armbar.

Error(s):
a.) Missed decent armbar attempt due to bad balance.
b.) Lost focus and allowed an Armbar from starting postion

Positive(s):
a.) Able to get side control
b.) Able to get in good position to execute good armbar attempt.
c.) Defended one serious guard pass attemtp.

Roll #3
Opponent: Richard
Rank: Blue

Result: Stalemate

Error(s):
a.) Missed serious armbar attempt due to good defense
b.) Gassed myself out trying to open opponent's grib in order to finish armbar.
c.) Unable to transition from armbar into choke or kimora

Positive(s):
a.) Able to get side control
b.) Able to get in good position to execute good armbar attempt.
c.) Escape side control back into full guard.

Lesson: Sometimes if the techinique is not there then don't force it.

King of the hill pt. 1

2005-08-01T19:53:00.000-07:00

Class: Evening
Instructor: Cassio Werneck

The whole focus of the was drill based from the closed guard. We did the 30 reps per side of each of the following:
1.) Arm Bar
2.) Kimura
3.) Triangle

After class Cassio announced the "King of the Hill" was going to occur during the "24 hours of Jiu Jitsu". The premise is two team with one man from each team competing. The winner stays in the middle and fights the next guy from the opposing team.
One guy starts in the closed guard and the other starts on his back.

3:00 mins per match

The team scoring is as follows:
1 point for a stalemate
2 points for a controlled pass
3 points for a submission.

I had the pleasure of watching the advance class actually do a "King of the Hill" and I must say I was very impressed.

============= Rolling Results ================
Context: The rolling was 3 mins for each side starting in a closed guard(triangle position).
Goal: Guy on bottom was going for submission. Guy in guard tried to escape.

Roll #1
Opponent: Mark
Rank: White

Result: Got one armbar submission and one wristlock. Did not submit.

Roll #2
Opponent: Dustin
Rank: Purple

Result: Submitted by two Armbars.

Roll #3
Opponent: 'Big' Al Reyes
Rank: Purple

Result: Submitted to one Armbar. Got Armbar submission

Note: Thanks again Mr. Miyagi.

Passing the guard

2005-07-29T21:47:00.000-07:00

Class: Evening
Instructor: Gus

Gus has some crazy warm-up and this day was no exception. We did leapfrogs, over/unders and something he called 'Weakest link'. In 'Weakest Link' the group was split into teams and each team link arms. Then the two team link up in the middle and begin to pull trying to separate the other team from the chain.

BTW..Our team won 3-2.

Technique #1 Controlling both knees to pass the guard into side control

Setup: Closed guard

Important points:
1.) Open Guard using standard 'Gus' opening(Knee in butt crack w/ outward pressure on one leg.
2.) Secure the inside of both knees with hands.
3.) Hop up and push opponents knees toward his head. Lot of pressure!!
4.) Step back bring feet to the floor. Lot of pressure!! According to Gus you should be almost able to do a handstand.
5.) Bring controlled knees to either side while hopping around to the opposite side. Lot of pressure!!
6.) Bring crown of head into opponents chest while maintaing.....Lot of pressure!!
7.) Bring weight down and knees in tight to opponents back......Lot of pressure!!
8.) Release inside leg and place across opponents torso(forearm on the mat)
9.) Bring opponents outside leg up towards head and then down to the mat in a single flowing motion.
10.) Finish by securing side control.

Technique #2 Controlling both knees to pass the guard into knee in belly

Setup: Closed guard

Important points:
1.) Open Guard using standard 'Gus' opening(Knee in butt crack w/ outward pressure on one leg.
2.) Secure the inside of both knees with hands.
3.) Hop up and push opponent's knees toward his head. Lot of pressure!!
4.) Step across toward opponent's hip(foot should be on mat but in contact with hip) while making sure the leg that does not step through is outside of the opponent's leg(reduce chance of opponent pulling half-guard).
5.) Pivot around like corkscrew bringing the knee of the foot that stepped through into the belly of the opponent while swinging the other leg around(leg should be extended creating a base).

Technique #3 Knee on belly escape.

Setup: Opponent has knee on belly.
Note: This was a side techinque I got from Dustin based on my question.

Important points:
1.) DO NOT FLATTEN OUT!!
2.) As soon as knee on the belly happens hip out away from knee trying to get shoulder up. GETTING SHOULDER UP IS KEY!!
3.) If opponent's base leg is close enough it can be used for getting more power into the 'hip out'.
4a.) Bring hips/knee back inside in order to half-guard or full guard depending on the distance created.

or
4b.) Bring knees around(think turtle escape) and secure the knee that was in the belly for a single-leg takedown attempt.

============= Rolling Results ================

Roll #1
Opponent: Joe
Rank: White

Result: Submitted to mounted keylock

Error(s):
a.) Did not pull guard properly allowing side control to occur.
b.) Too slow bring knee up to prevent mount.
c.) Got distracted defending choke to attempt mount escape.

Positive(s):
a.) Able to recover and get half guard.
b.) Defended numerous choke attempts.
c.) Defended numerous key lock attempts.

Roll #2
Opponent: Joe
Rank: White

Result: Submitted to Cross Choke

Error(s):
a.) Did not pull guard properly allowing side control to occur.
b.) Too slow bring knee up to prevent mount.
c.) Got distracted defending choke to attempt mount escape.

Positive(s): None, the first roll was like 4 mins and I was pretty spent.

Roll #3
Opponent: New white belt
Rank: White

Summary: Instructional work

Roll #4
Opponent: 'Big' Al Reyes
Rank: Purpl

Summary: Instructional work with Al showing me the finer points of guard control.

Important points:
1.) Hip out
2.) Turn and get onto shoulders (get hips off the ground using feet as base).
3.) Pivot hips back inside while coming up into a more seated position.
4.) Maintain grips and pull opponent back into guard.

Note: Thanks again Mr. Miyagi.

Cross Choke from closed guard

2005-07-27T10:58:00.000-07:00

Went to evening class and got their after most of warm-ups. Traffic was very nasty.

Technique #1 Standard Cross choke from the guard

Setup: Closed guard

Important points:
1.) Slide hands(flat) in as deep as possible.
2.) Clench tight fists
3.) Bring guard down
4.) Keep elbows tight to the body and down towards floor

Technique #2 Cross Choke from closed guard with Gi seam grip.

Setup: Same as above

Important points:
1.) Instead of going underneath the gi grab is from above.
2.) Rotate the first hand arm in to put more pressure on carotid.

Technique #3 Wrist lock/Arm Bar variant grip.

Setup: Guy in closed guard posts arm in stomach to defend chokes above.

Important points:
1.) Walk legs up and trap shoulder on the same side as the first hand applying the choke.
2.) Lock feet and squeeze locking shoulder in place.
3.) Apply wristlock on arm that has trapped shoulder. Pressure toward opponent's body
or
3.) Apply armlock on arm that has trapped shoulder. Rotating arm trapped shoulder making sure opponent's hand is facing away from trapped shoulder.

Kick off post

2005-05-20T19:15:00.000-07:00

The purpose of this blog is to chronicle not only my progress in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu but to allow me to document the techniques I learn in class so I won't forget them.

After years of watching the fighters in Pride and UFC I finally decided at age 33 to look at BJJ.

I started BJJ training at Werneck's World Class Jui Jitsu

with 2003 World Champion Cassio Werneck.

God help me,
Travis