Positional Hierarchy

I orginally got this from Jude Ledesma from Berkeley. However, I think it was in a Gracie book; though not sure which one.

I like it because it helps give a beginner a structure to work by ... an understanding of what positions are strategically considered more important than others. I find that it has helped clarify / guide my game. It is a great guide.

Read from top to bottom. It goes from best positions to worst positions in BJJ:

Back with hooks / opponent belly down with you on his back
Back with hooks / you on your back with opponent on you
Mount
Knee to belly
Cross-sides
Turtle / quarters
Half guard
Guard (bottom)
- - - - -
Guard (top)
Half guard
Turtle / quarters
Cross-sides
Knee to belly
Mount
Back with hooks / you on your back with opponent under you
Back with hooks / on your belly down with opponent on your back

Basics: How to Shrimp

Shrimping is to Jiu Jitsu as dribbling is to basketball; as the crawl is to swimming; as breathing is to life (ok … maybe I’m getting a little dramatic). My point is, shrimping is how one moves on the mat. If you learn how to shrimp effectively right off the bat, you’re going to be WAY ahead of the game.

I’m a huge fan of movement efficiency and precision.



Here is how I break it down.

1. Opposites
2. Roll to the front of your shoulder cap / hips facing sideways
3. Hips off the floor
4. Retract bottom hip / butt ends up past your head
5. Straighten out / rigid

I’ll include some drills and some things to work on next installment.

In good health and for the love of the sport,

TO