BJJ Mental Models

Dive into the fascinating world of crank mechanics in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu! Discover how cranks uniquely target the spinal cord compared to traditional chokes. The discussion humorously tackles common misconceptions around these submissions. Explore the essential mechanics and techniques behind neck cranks while prioritizing safety and consent. Ethical considerations take center stage, ensuring practitioners understand the risks involved. Perfect for anyone looking to enhance their grappling knowledge!

Josh Vogel, co-founder and head instructor at The Jiu Jitsu Company in Philadelphia, emphasizes structured class curriculums and project-based learning in this engaging discussion. He introduces innovative concepts like 'funneling' to align Jiu-Jitsu techniques with individual strengths. The conversation also explores balancing data-driven training with enjoyment, encouraging practitioners to view losses as growth opportunities. Additionally, Vogel delves into the philosophy behind belt promotions, advocating for deeper understanding over mere technique memorization.

Delve into the fascinating world of compression chokes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu! This episode breaks down the mechanics of squeezing your opponent's chest, making it hard for them to breathe. Although not the highest success rate technique, understanding it ensures you're prepared on the mat. Learn how these quirky chokes fit into your defensive strategy, preventing you from becoming another highlight reel victim. Discover the nuances of choking mechanics and elevate your sparring game!

For our 300th episode, there's only one guest that'll do: James "300" Foster!  James is a 3x black belt masters world champion, 4th degree black belt under Giva Santana, and the head coach at Foster Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.  In this episode, James shares how teachers who are also active competitors can balance those two priorities, and even synergize them.Follow James on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/james300fosterSubscribe to James' YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/@James300FosterListen to James' podcast, Nerdy Mewzings:https://www.nerdymewzings.com/podcastTrain with James at Foster BJJ:http://fosterbjj.com/Mental models discussed in this episode:Training Handicapshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/training-handicaps/You Are What You Trainhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/you-are-what-you-train/Plus, Minus, Equalshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/plus-minus-equals/Law of Contrasthttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/law-of-contrast/Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental Models Premium!If you love the podcast, you'll definitely love our premium membership offerings. The podcast is truly just the tip of the iceberg – the next steps on your journey are joining our community, downloading our strategy courseware, and working with us to optimize your game.  We do all this through memberships that come in at a fraction of the cost of a single private.Sign up here for a free trial:https://bjjmentalmodels.com/Need more BJJ Mental Models?Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our newsletter:https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter/Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database:https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/Follow us on social:https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels/Music by Enterprize:https://enterprize.bandcamp.com/Get Jake O'Driscoll's triple threat ankle lock course, FREE:https://bjjmentalmodels.com/jake 

Dive into the fascinating world of air chokes, where cutting off breath provides a tactical edge in Jiu-Jitsu! Discover how these techniques can be safely executed and the psychology behind them. Learn about the connection to famous submissions like the guillotine and why air chokes deserve respect, dispelling myths around them being 'dirty.' Uncover tricks to accelerate their effectiveness by triggering the gag reflex.

Adam Medlock, a Braulio Estima black belt and lead educator from the UK, discusses innovative methods for assessing student progress in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He highlights the TLA cycle (Teaching, Learning, and Assessment) and critiques the limitations of one-size-fits-all approaches. Medlock emphasizes the importance of personalized feedback, innovative tools like video analysis, and the role of self and peer assessments in a supportive learning environment. The conversation delves into how adaptive strategies can enhance both student and coach growth in this dynamic martial art.

Dive into the intriguing mechanics of blood chokes! Discover how compression on the carotid arteries creates effective submissions. Learn about the 'triangle around the head' concept, a game-changer for tightening various chokes. The distinction between choking and breaking mechanics could elevate your BJJ skills. Explore the efficiency of blood chokes versus air chokes and grasp the anatomical principles that make them so potent. This episode promises to enhance your understanding and technique!

Mandy Schneider, a purple belt and rising star from SOUL FIGHTERS Martial Arts, shares her journey navigating the challenges of training after surgery for elbow bursitis. She discusses distinguishing manageable injuries from those needing full rest, and the mental toll of recovery. Mandy emphasizes the importance of setting personal goals and maintaining motivation while sidelined. With insights on resilience and adaptability, she encourages listeners to focus on long-term health and personal growth through setbacks.

Dive into the intriguing concept of dominant angles in grappling. It's not just about position; it's about how your body relates to your opponent's. Discover which angles give you the upper hand and learn to challenge conventional wisdom in Jiu-Jitsu. Gain insights on body alignment that can effectively neutralize your opponent's attacks. This episode will reshape your understanding and approach on the mat!

David Figueroa-Martinez, a black belt and instructor from Gracie La Mesa, dives into the emotional complexities of leaving a martial arts gym. He shares personal anecdotes about vulnerability and growth during transitions, while emphasizing the importance of professionalism. The discussion touches on navigating gym politics and maintaining healthy relationships between coaches and students. Figueroa-Martinez also advocates for choosing supportive training environments that foster psychological safety, highlighting how leaving a gym can reflect positive personal development.