BJJ Mental Models

Andrew Green, a 25-year martial arts coach and creator of the Kids Jiu-Jitsu Playbook, runs Innovative Martial Arts in Winnipeg. He explains why kids need developmentally appropriate coaching. Topics include building kids-first gym culture, gamified engagement like magazines and rewards, emotional regulation strategies, staffing and training coaches, and turning jiu-jitsu into life-skill development rather than just medals.

A concise look at identifying the body part that makes an attack work and why that matters in movement and defense. Analogies like beachheads and spear tips illustrate sending force and holding ground. Practical checks for why escapes fail and common exceptions like posts versus true leverage are highlighted.

Jake O'Driscoll, BJJ black belt and coach from Perth who mentors elite competitors. He breaks down deliberate study: practical note-taking, video review, effortful retrieval and tailoring methods to personality. Conversations cover filtering signal from noise, using training footage to sharpen decision-making, and how to structure individualized tape study.

Explore the concept of force vectors and how they can enhance your BJJ frames. Discover two primary responses to incoming force: meeting it or redirecting it. Learn how to match angles effectively to support weight, and why certain frames can collapse against changing angles. Uncover techniques for leveraging grips and movement to redirect force, transforming your approach on the mat. This insightful discussion emphasizes the importance of identifying force angles for better escapes and positioning.

In this engaging conversation, Erin Herle, a certified mental performance consultant and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Rubens 'Cobrinha' Charles, tackles the concept of self-worth in the sport. She emphasizes the pitfalls of performance-based self-worth linked to belts and rankings. Erin discusses the importance of establishing core values and the dangers of tying identity solely to outcomes. Listeners will also learn practical strategies for cultivating a healthier athletic identity and fostering psychological safety within coaching environments.

Discover the art of creating dilemmas in jiu-jitsu, where opponents are forced to choose between two undesirable options. Explore the triangle-armbar combo, showcasing how it limits defensive choices. Steve draws parallels to chess with the concept of tsukzwang and recalls Hoist Gracie's constricting approach. Learn how to keep opponents on the defensive and the importance of framing tactics with loaded questions. Plus, gain insights on avoiding dilemmas by finding third options through experience and training.

This week, Ryan Rich, head coach at Granite Bay Jiu-Jitsu and co-creator of BJJGames.com, shares insights on game-based learning in Jiu-Jitsu. He explains how premade skill-development games can enhance coaching effectiveness. Ryan discusses the importance of adapting these games to diverse student demographics, balancing skill enhancement with student enjoyment, and the specific needs of youth programs. He also emphasizes the need to blend various teaching methods and assess game effectiveness to keep training engaging and productive.

Discover how table selection, a poker concept, can boost your jiu-jitsu success! Choosing the right training environment is crucial; it can either enhance or hinder your growth. Learn why mismatched goals with coaches matter, and how adjusting your techniques based on your opponent's posture can lead to greater effectiveness. Steve emphasizes that adapting your surroundings often trumps sheer effort when seeking improvements in your skills. Dive into this mindset shift for a more strategic approach to training!

Todd Richards, a BJJ black belt and co-head instructor at Team Rhino Jiu-Jitsu, shares valuable insights on building a structured curriculum following the loss of Keith Owen. He emphasizes the importance of scenario-based drills for beginners and how a well-crafted curriculum supports hobbyists who may not have time for unstructured learning. Todd also discusses the significance of teaching concepts behind techniques, testing philosophies, and the need for progress markers like stripes and belts to guide students in their Jiu-Jitsu journey.

This mini-discussion dives into the importance of 'opening salvos' in grappling, likening them to a boxer's jab. The first engagement can shape the entire match, making timing and technique crucial. Low-commitment strategies, like simple entries, can help control distance and provoke reactions. The psychology of scoring first is explored, emphasizing its advantages. Additionally, transitioning from low-commitment to high-risk moves is examined, with tips on preparation for successful execution. Strategically navigating these elements can enhance your grappling game.