Theme & Techniques: Week# 7 Seio Nage, Back Mount Lapel Choke, Guillotine from Guard
Students: Jess, Jeff, Max
Did some different warm-ups today. Max is pretty new so I didn't want to do drilling. I had us do some takedown fitins, grip fighting, and clinch work. We had a lot of time to work on techniques so I added both the wing choke and we looked at bow and arrow.
Looking back probably the tip I gave the most often was concerning the wrists and canting them out as you choke. With the guillotine it was about moving the hips back enough to make space.
Rolling: Back Mount, Closed Guard
Rolled With: Everyone
Had some good rolls, Max is pretty green so after a few times of executing the technique of the day I helped him defend some stuff. I had a conversation with Jess about this after class and how I usually deal with someone that is pretty new. I'll usually go for what we worked on during class a couple of times, mostly to show that it works and for my benefit of practicing it. If it's too easy I'll then help them defend what I'm doing and give some basic pointers.
The rest of the rolling was good. Controlled Jeff from the back and worked on maintaining the back. In guard with Jess I worked a little cross guard and 2 on 1. When I was on top, my goal was to stay out of his spider guard, so I stayed kneeling and worked for pressure passes.
Office Hours Partner: Jeff, Jess
Went over the over/under pass for both of them and showed some details as they both worked on it with me a little previously. Jess and I got a good roll in. We ended up in turtle again and I tried for crucifix as I'm wanting to do. While he was defending I was able to trap his arm as I went for back mount hook and setup the sliding lapel choke.
Showing posts with label Teacher: Me. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Teacher: Me. Show all posts
Friday, March 24, 2017
Wednesday, March 22, 2017
March 22nd 2017 - Gi All Levels
Theme & Techniques: Week# 7 Seio Nage, Back Mount Lapel Choke, Guillotine from Guard
Students: John, Frank, Jess
Got to teach class today. Had everyone drill something as the 2nd half of the warm-up, I chose crucifix. I'm liking adding this section to the classes that I teach, I may need to include some neck exercises too though.
I taught drop seio nage after showing the standard way we teach it. I showed it with the leg grab setup that the kids also are taught. Everyone looked pretty good during reps.
Everyone did well with the sliding lapel choke right away so I showed the bow and arrow too and only gave out a few critiques here and there.
Showed the guillotine as a precursor to next weeks techniques of hip bump and kimuara, as all of these techniques have the same setup. The big tip that helped everyone was to move the hips back enough to make the space needed to get your hands together properly. We also discussed the Marcelotine variation.
Rolling: 8 Minute Escapes, Free Rolling
Rolled With: Jess, John
Since we had a lot of time after drilling and it was on my mind from yesterday I decided to do the 8 minute escapes drill. I believe I was defending first and did my best to not get submitted. Jess did come close once with an armbar from mount as I executed the bridge and roll. I was able to stack and get out of it but his intuition to attempt it was right on. Felt good about my turtle attacks and got to crucifix a couple of times. The last one ended up with Jess arms trapped and then he trapped my legs with his. As I worked for the choke it put the armbar on.
Rolled with John next and he said something like "my goal is to not get choked from north/south." I started with a z-guard and swept, but I kept it for too long and he eventually got the underhook from half guard. He ended up in mount and I had some ground to recover. Somewhere along the line I made it back to the top and just as I was setting up the NS choke the timer goes off so he completed his goal.
Office Hours Partner: John
We went over a lot of stuff after class, maybe teetering on over-information. We discussed my series from 2 on 1, some stuff that I do from mount, and even some deep half stuff.
Students: John, Frank, Jess
Got to teach class today. Had everyone drill something as the 2nd half of the warm-up, I chose crucifix. I'm liking adding this section to the classes that I teach, I may need to include some neck exercises too though.
I taught drop seio nage after showing the standard way we teach it. I showed it with the leg grab setup that the kids also are taught. Everyone looked pretty good during reps.
Everyone did well with the sliding lapel choke right away so I showed the bow and arrow too and only gave out a few critiques here and there.
Showed the guillotine as a precursor to next weeks techniques of hip bump and kimuara, as all of these techniques have the same setup. The big tip that helped everyone was to move the hips back enough to make the space needed to get your hands together properly. We also discussed the Marcelotine variation.
Rolling: 8 Minute Escapes, Free Rolling
Rolled With: Jess, John
Since we had a lot of time after drilling and it was on my mind from yesterday I decided to do the 8 minute escapes drill. I believe I was defending first and did my best to not get submitted. Jess did come close once with an armbar from mount as I executed the bridge and roll. I was able to stack and get out of it but his intuition to attempt it was right on. Felt good about my turtle attacks and got to crucifix a couple of times. The last one ended up with Jess arms trapped and then he trapped my legs with his. As I worked for the choke it put the armbar on.
Rolled with John next and he said something like "my goal is to not get choked from north/south." I started with a z-guard and swept, but I kept it for too long and he eventually got the underhook from half guard. He ended up in mount and I had some ground to recover. Somewhere along the line I made it back to the top and just as I was setting up the NS choke the timer goes off so he completed his goal.
Office Hours Partner: John
We went over a lot of stuff after class, maybe teetering on over-information. We discussed my series from 2 on 1, some stuff that I do from mount, and even some deep half stuff.
Saturday, March 18, 2017
March 17th 2017 - Gi All Levels
Theme & Techniques: Week #6 RNC Defense with O-soto gari, Back Mount: Escape, RNC
Students: Jeff
I've been sick the last few days, unfortunately it's on my bachelor's week. Pretty much gave Jeff a private class as he was the only one to show up. Since he missed the previous week we did a few reps of this week's stuff and then went over the double leg and mount stuff from last week.
We had some good rolls but he's still trying to move straight through my guard, so I chastised him a bit for that and showed him the over under pass.
Students: Jeff
I've been sick the last few days, unfortunately it's on my bachelor's week. Pretty much gave Jeff a private class as he was the only one to show up. Since he missed the previous week we did a few reps of this week's stuff and then went over the double leg and mount stuff from last week.
We had some good rolls but he's still trying to move straight through my guard, so I chastised him a bit for that and showed him the over under pass.
Thursday, March 2, 2017
March 2nd 2017 - Gi All Levels
Theme & Techniques: Week# 4 Standing Headlock Escape to Tani Otoshi, Kneeling Guard Break, Single Under Pass
Students: Daniel, Jess, Jeff, Ben, Shane, Frank
I was the teacher today and had them drill for 3 minutes each again on a technique of their choice. I had them each do it a few times before I started the time to make sure everyone had their technique correct and their partner knew what they were doing. I think everyone got some good work in.
This is a rare week where I'm more excited about the self defense technique than the other stuff. The single under pass is just not something I use that often along with the kneeling guard break, but they are important to know. I showed the elbow push as a counter to the single under pass and everyone seemed to do well with it.
Rolling: Closed Guard Up/Down/Out
Rolled With: Everyone
Gotta give props to Shane today he was able to come up on a sweep when tried a long step pass. His guard is getting pretty good and he's doing an especially good job of recovering. Otherwise had some good rolls and saw some good things when I wasn't rolling. I did complete one single under pass and in the process I almost got caught by the elbow push escape. Saw some good hand fighting from Ben and Jeff they both kept me working to get grips.
Office Hours Partner: Shane, Jess
Shane asked about getting the overhook and people attempting the tozi pass on him every time. I showed him he could go right for a collar grab to frame against their neck.
With Jess, I drilled some z-guard for a while with a little resistance. We also troubleshooted some problems he was having with the over/under pass. We rolled and he did pretty well navigating my guard. I attempted to attack crucifix but wasn't able to get his arm out before we changed positions. We ran into a footlock battle where I was just a little quicker and in a better position.
Students: Daniel, Jess, Jeff, Ben, Shane, Frank
I was the teacher today and had them drill for 3 minutes each again on a technique of their choice. I had them each do it a few times before I started the time to make sure everyone had their technique correct and their partner knew what they were doing. I think everyone got some good work in.
This is a rare week where I'm more excited about the self defense technique than the other stuff. The single under pass is just not something I use that often along with the kneeling guard break, but they are important to know. I showed the elbow push as a counter to the single under pass and everyone seemed to do well with it.
Rolling: Closed Guard Up/Down/Out
Rolled With: Everyone
Gotta give props to Shane today he was able to come up on a sweep when tried a long step pass. His guard is getting pretty good and he's doing an especially good job of recovering. Otherwise had some good rolls and saw some good things when I wasn't rolling. I did complete one single under pass and in the process I almost got caught by the elbow push escape. Saw some good hand fighting from Ben and Jeff they both kept me working to get grips.
Office Hours Partner: Shane, Jess
Shane asked about getting the overhook and people attempting the tozi pass on him every time. I showed him he could go right for a collar grab to frame against their neck.
With Jess, I drilled some z-guard for a while with a little resistance. We also troubleshooted some problems he was having with the over/under pass. We rolled and he did pretty well navigating my guard. I attempted to attack crucifix but wasn't able to get his arm out before we changed positions. We ran into a footlock battle where I was just a little quicker and in a better position.
Thursday, February 23, 2017
February 23rd 2017 - Gi All Levels
Theme & Techniques: Week #3 O-Goshi, Armbar from Guard, Cross Collar Choke
Students: Bob, Jess, Frank, Shane, Jesus, Tim
Thought I'd try something different for the warm-up and had everyone drill something for 3 minutes after the regular floor stuff. Probably wouldn't have done it if we had a first day person but it worked out pretty well. I remember some side control escapes, an omoplata, an o-soto gari, and a loop choke. I was able to get in some crucifix work while a partner went to the restroom.
Here's some tips on the techniques of the week:
Rolled With: Everyone
Had 2 groups and it moved along pretty well and I was able to get in and work as well. From the bottom I was able to hit one cross choke and one armbar and tried to set up each of them a few times. The rest were
Office Hours Partner: Shane, Frank
During my last roll with Jess he had stood up at one point and I had an opportunity for a sickle sweep but he was against the wall so I had to switch to something different, but made the comment that I wanted it. So Shane asked me to go over the sweep after class. I showed it from feet on hips and also as a response to the standing guard break. Frank and Shane drilled it a few times.
Rolled with Frank after that and was hunting the crucifix big time but couldn't find a way to make him turtle or the side control setup that I saw in the Cobrinha video below. I don't think I got the grip on the arm quite right to control it. Frank said afterward he thought I was hunting something in particular because I was skipping other opportunities for submissions.
Students: Bob, Jess, Frank, Shane, Jesus, Tim
Thought I'd try something different for the warm-up and had everyone drill something for 3 minutes after the regular floor stuff. Probably wouldn't have done it if we had a first day person but it worked out pretty well. I remember some side control escapes, an omoplata, an o-soto gari, and a loop choke. I was able to get in some crucifix work while a partner went to the restroom.
Here's some tips on the techniques of the week:
- O-Goshi: I had Bob teach this and probably the biggest point he got across was distance control in your step during the fit in. You want to step at the tip of the triangle as you off balance them and get your belt (hips) below theirs for the throw.
- Armbar: The tip that I gave today that I was told was the most helpful was raising the leg into the armpit to bring their head forward and make the angle better to get your leg over. DON'T CROSS YOUR FEET (most of the time).
- Cross Collar: The first grip needs to be very deep. The other thing that was important to me was the position of the wrist. Don't let your wrist bend around the shape of their neck but jut it into the direction of your neck.
Rolled With: Everyone
Had 2 groups and it moved along pretty well and I was able to get in and work as well. From the bottom I was able to hit one cross choke and one armbar and tried to set up each of them a few times. The rest were
Office Hours Partner: Shane, Frank
During my last roll with Jess he had stood up at one point and I had an opportunity for a sickle sweep but he was against the wall so I had to switch to something different, but made the comment that I wanted it. So Shane asked me to go over the sweep after class. I showed it from feet on hips and also as a response to the standing guard break. Frank and Shane drilled it a few times.
Rolled with Frank after that and was hunting the crucifix big time but couldn't find a way to make him turtle or the side control setup that I saw in the Cobrinha video below. I don't think I got the grip on the arm quite right to control it. Frank said afterward he thought I was hunting something in particular because I was skipping other opportunities for submissions.
Friday, February 17, 2017
February 17th 2017 - Gi All Levels
Theme & Techniques: Week# 2 Standing RNC Seio Nage Defense, Farside Armbar From Side Control, Scissor Sweep
Students: Craig, Jesus, Jeff
Got to teach today and had a good time as usual. I added in a few things to the normal curriculum without trying to be overwhelming. I did the farside armbar from knee on belly and also as a defense to the kimura from side control. I think these were all similar enough that everyone picked up on it.
I also showed the loop choke as Jesus was asking me about it the day before. We did it from butterfly guard but I also showed that it could be a counter to when they drop their hips back during the scissor sweep.
Rolling: Side Control, Closed Guard
Rolled With: Everyone
We had enough time that we each got to roll with each other in top and bottom of both side control and full guard. I was hunting for the techniques of the day but everyone seemed savy enough to avoid them, I'll have to be a little more sneaky in the future. I did hit a scissor sweep but no farside armbars were to be had.
For some reason the cross collar choke from guard has been presenting itself pretty often. Not sure if I'm doing something different to make this more available. I don't always get it but it does lead to other things like 2 on 1 or gift wrap when they try to prevent the choke. Kudos to Craig for surprising me by transitioning from side control to full mount.
Students: Craig, Jesus, Jeff
Got to teach today and had a good time as usual. I added in a few things to the normal curriculum without trying to be overwhelming. I did the farside armbar from knee on belly and also as a defense to the kimura from side control. I think these were all similar enough that everyone picked up on it.
I also showed the loop choke as Jesus was asking me about it the day before. We did it from butterfly guard but I also showed that it could be a counter to when they drop their hips back during the scissor sweep.
Rolling: Side Control, Closed Guard
Rolled With: Everyone
We had enough time that we each got to roll with each other in top and bottom of both side control and full guard. I was hunting for the techniques of the day but everyone seemed savy enough to avoid them, I'll have to be a little more sneaky in the future. I did hit a scissor sweep but no farside armbars were to be had.
For some reason the cross collar choke from guard has been presenting itself pretty often. Not sure if I'm doing something different to make this more available. I don't always get it but it does lead to other things like 2 on 1 or gift wrap when they try to prevent the choke. Kudos to Craig for surprising me by transitioning from side control to full mount.
Friday, February 3, 2017
February 3rd 2017 - Gi All Levels
Theme & Techniques: Headlock Escape Bridge Over, Straight Footlock: Setup and Escape
Students: Craig, Ryal, Jesus, Jeff
Did a few extra partner warm-ups instead of circling up. I had them do the standing guard break to sit-up, the armbar drill, and then some sitouts. When I taught the ankle footlock, I also had them attempt it from the standing guard break and made sure to mention the points from yesterday's post.
Rolling: Guard
Rolled With: Everyone
Had them do a few rounds as partners before jumping in myself and doing an up/down/out with only 1 person getting some rest. Jeff the new guy is doing pretty well, he has the common big guy tendencies of wanting to drive through someone's closed guard. What's funny is that I've had a couple of people finish rolling with him and tell me that he's so strong, where in my opinion they've displayed similar tendencies.
Office Hours Partner: Jeff
Jeff stayed after a bit so we could roll. I caught him with some things and gave him some pointers. Mostly about keeping arms and elbows in and respecting the cross collar grip. I showed him the knee over pass because he got close to the position a couple of times.
I often head to the YMCA after morning classes to get a shower before work. Unfortunately their boiler was broken and they had no hot water. I had a flashback of taking canteen showers in the field as a Marine.
Ready for MMA class in a few hours. Luckily went to bed early last night, but I'm not sure what to expect out of the class.
Students: Craig, Ryal, Jesus, Jeff
Did a few extra partner warm-ups instead of circling up. I had them do the standing guard break to sit-up, the armbar drill, and then some sitouts. When I taught the ankle footlock, I also had them attempt it from the standing guard break and made sure to mention the points from yesterday's post.
Rolling: Guard
Rolled With: Everyone
Had them do a few rounds as partners before jumping in myself and doing an up/down/out with only 1 person getting some rest. Jeff the new guy is doing pretty well, he has the common big guy tendencies of wanting to drive through someone's closed guard. What's funny is that I've had a couple of people finish rolling with him and tell me that he's so strong, where in my opinion they've displayed similar tendencies.
Office Hours Partner: Jeff
Jeff stayed after a bit so we could roll. I caught him with some things and gave him some pointers. Mostly about keeping arms and elbows in and respecting the cross collar grip. I showed him the knee over pass because he got close to the position a couple of times.
I often head to the YMCA after morning classes to get a shower before work. Unfortunately their boiler was broken and they had no hot water. I had a flashback of taking canteen showers in the field as a Marine.
Ready for MMA class in a few hours. Luckily went to bed early last night, but I'm not sure what to expect out of the class.
Friday, January 20, 2017
January 20th 2017 - Gi All Levels
Theme & Techniques: Basic Open Guard: Maintaining the position, Tripod Sweep, Sickle Sweep
Students: Jesus, Matt, Quinton, David (New)
David did pretty well for this being his first class. Like I said in my last post, I would consider the basic open guard to be advanced basics. I enjoyed teaching the sickle sweep and it seemed like everyone got it pretty well.
Rolling: Open Guard
I didn't get to roll during this time due to even numbers. The skill levels of everyone was evident though while watching everyone roll. It was a tell on who has played more guard with Jesus and Quinton having some success with it but Matt and David were getting passed relatively easily. I was really impressed with Jesus, looks like he's figuring stuff out. I remember getting frustrated with strong wrestlers coming in on their first day and giving me trouble and a few months into blue belt I felt like I started figuring things out.
Office Hours Partner: David, Quinton
Rolled a few times after class but it wasn't enough to be fulfilling. I'll have to make it up tomorrow.
Students: Jesus, Matt, Quinton, David (New)
David did pretty well for this being his first class. Like I said in my last post, I would consider the basic open guard to be advanced basics. I enjoyed teaching the sickle sweep and it seemed like everyone got it pretty well.
Rolling: Open Guard
I didn't get to roll during this time due to even numbers. The skill levels of everyone was evident though while watching everyone roll. It was a tell on who has played more guard with Jesus and Quinton having some success with it but Matt and David were getting passed relatively easily. I was really impressed with Jesus, looks like he's figuring stuff out. I remember getting frustrated with strong wrestlers coming in on their first day and giving me trouble and a few months into blue belt I felt like I started figuring things out.
Office Hours Partner: David, Quinton
Rolled a few times after class but it wasn't enough to be fulfilling. I'll have to make it up tomorrow.
Friday, January 13, 2017
January 13th 2017 - Gi All Levels
Theme & Techniques: Koshi Guruma, Triangle Setup, Mounted Triangle
Students: Morgan, Craig, Jesus, Jess, Matt
Had everyone partner up and we did some grip fighting during the warm-up. We had odd numbers so I jumped in to partner up on the throw. Helped Matt with the stepping and mostly his foot placement.
Felt good about how I explained the triangle and showed some tricks that I use being a short leg guy. I think they appreciated my ratchet technique but who knows. I then offered up the bonus technique of mounted triangle saying that this is how I first started completing triangles and threw the armbar in as a bonus bonus.
Rolling: Triangle Position, Closed Guard, Free Rolling
Rolled With: Jesus, Matt, Morgan, Craig, Jess
Used Jared's idea of starting from the triangle position. It really shows that you can still have a long way to go to finish even if you get to the position. I did feel a little more giving today during rolling, being the instructor does that I think. I helped people finish triangles on me and gave them tips to escape mine. Rolling felt good today and felt like I could flow pretty well. I allowed myself to be put into a couple of bad spots so I could work my way out of them. I tried to get to crucifix a few times but nothing today, may focus on that tomorrow.
Students: Morgan, Craig, Jesus, Jess, Matt
Had everyone partner up and we did some grip fighting during the warm-up. We had odd numbers so I jumped in to partner up on the throw. Helped Matt with the stepping and mostly his foot placement.
Felt good about how I explained the triangle and showed some tricks that I use being a short leg guy. I think they appreciated my ratchet technique but who knows. I then offered up the bonus technique of mounted triangle saying that this is how I first started completing triangles and threw the armbar in as a bonus bonus.
Rolling: Triangle Position, Closed Guard, Free Rolling
Rolled With: Jesus, Matt, Morgan, Craig, Jess
Used Jared's idea of starting from the triangle position. It really shows that you can still have a long way to go to finish even if you get to the position. I did feel a little more giving today during rolling, being the instructor does that I think. I helped people finish triangles on me and gave them tips to escape mine. Rolling felt good today and felt like I could flow pretty well. I allowed myself to be put into a couple of bad spots so I could work my way out of them. I tried to get to crucifix a few times but nothing today, may focus on that tomorrow.
Friday, January 6, 2017
January 6th 2017 - Gi All Levels
Theme & Techniques: Head Lock Escape to Back Mount, Kneeling Guard Break to Knee Slide, Knee Wedge Guard Break
Students: Jesus, Craig, Ryal, Matt, Morgan, Jess
Got to teach this morning and was happy to see a good size class for a Friday morning. I had them do the standing guard break drill where one partner just did the standing part 10 times in a row. This drill helped me immensely with my guard passing when we did it in competition classes in the past. I added in the knee wedge guard break that I usually call the violator. I think it lends itself especially well to transition right into knee slide pass. It went pretty well but like usual a few people had trouble getting their knee in the right place.
Rolling: Guard Up/Down/Out
Rolled With: Everyone
Saw some good rolls and people attempting the standing guard break and knee slide. I saw some successes and a lot of good hand fighting. I witnessed Jess pull off a cross guard omoplata sweep. Something that we worked on recently. Gives me warm and fuzzy instructor feelings seeing someone complete a technique that I taught them. I don't remember doing anything out of the ordinary during rolling, I mostly attempted the standing guard break and knee slide.
Office Hours Partner: Morgan, Jess
Had a good couple of rolls with Morgan, then watched him and Jess roll. Talked about Jess leaning forward to much allowing for people to put on kimuras. We talked a bit about tournament rules and scoring and likes and dislikes about submission only vs points.
Students: Jesus, Craig, Ryal, Matt, Morgan, Jess
Got to teach this morning and was happy to see a good size class for a Friday morning. I had them do the standing guard break drill where one partner just did the standing part 10 times in a row. This drill helped me immensely with my guard passing when we did it in competition classes in the past. I added in the knee wedge guard break that I usually call the violator. I think it lends itself especially well to transition right into knee slide pass. It went pretty well but like usual a few people had trouble getting their knee in the right place.
Rolling: Guard Up/Down/Out
Rolled With: Everyone
Saw some good rolls and people attempting the standing guard break and knee slide. I saw some successes and a lot of good hand fighting. I witnessed Jess pull off a cross guard omoplata sweep. Something that we worked on recently. Gives me warm and fuzzy instructor feelings seeing someone complete a technique that I taught them. I don't remember doing anything out of the ordinary during rolling, I mostly attempted the standing guard break and knee slide.
Office Hours Partner: Morgan, Jess
Had a good couple of rolls with Morgan, then watched him and Jess roll. Talked about Jess leaning forward to much allowing for people to put on kimuras. We talked a bit about tournament rules and scoring and likes and dislikes about submission only vs points.
Thursday, December 29, 2016
December 29th 2016 - Gi All Levels
Theme & Techniques: Seio Nage, Double Ankle Sweep, Butterfly Hook Sweep
Students: Daniel, Ben, Bob, Frank, Jess
Had Bob teach a version of seoi nage where we took a lowered collar grip and squared way down. I am feeling pretty good about my kazushi. Working with Bob on the details is paying off.
Some tips on the hook sweep:
Rolling: Closed Guard, Butterfly Guard, Free Rolling
Rolled With: Daniel, Frank, Bob
Went for the butterfly sweep from the bottom every chance I got. During free rolling, I mostly started on the bottom, but attacked for a sweep and tried to push the pace.
Office Hours Partner: Daniel
Worked with him on butterfly sweep mostly the things mentioned above. He helped me with making my crucifix from turtle better. I've gotten there regularly lately but they've been able to escape by stepping over my legs. Once I trap their arm I need to move my hips toward their head instead of hips.
Students: Daniel, Ben, Bob, Frank, Jess
Had Bob teach a version of seoi nage where we took a lowered collar grip and squared way down. I am feeling pretty good about my kazushi. Working with Bob on the details is paying off.
Some tips on the hook sweep:
- It's important to control both your posture and theirs
- Use the underhook to lift their shoulder
- Use your overhook to pull down their other shoulder
- Fall directly to the side not back.
Rolling: Closed Guard, Butterfly Guard, Free Rolling
Rolled With: Daniel, Frank, Bob
Went for the butterfly sweep from the bottom every chance I got. During free rolling, I mostly started on the bottom, but attacked for a sweep and tried to push the pace.
Office Hours Partner: Daniel
Worked with him on butterfly sweep mostly the things mentioned above. He helped me with making my crucifix from turtle better. I've gotten there regularly lately but they've been able to escape by stepping over my legs. Once I trap their arm I need to move my hips toward their head instead of hips.
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
December 21st 2016 - Gi All Levels
Theme & Techniques: Deep Half: Entering from Mount, Side Control, Half Guard; Homer Sweep, Shin Sweep, Kick Sweep to Double Unders
Students: Morgan, Andy, Justin
Small class today and the regular material for the week was pretty basic with kneeling guard break and double under pass which I knew both Morgan and Andy were familiar with. I've been working with Morgan a little bit on deep half so he requested to work on that some more. I'm feeling like I'm developing a seminar type format for this position as I've taught it occasionally. I'm figuring out the best progression which starts with escaping mount to deep half, I think this is a pretty direct approach to getting to the position. Then I'll introduce the Homer Simpson sweep and the students will attempt that through the other entries.
From there I go to side control and finally half guard. I usually teach to get an underhook with the knee shield before going to the position but there are several ways to get the underhook. Finally I add in some additional sweeps using the lapel and the butterfly hook. I hardly ever make it to the waiter sweep and may make that and back takes a part of the advanced seminar.
Rolling: Deep Half Lab, Free Rolling
Rolled With: Everyone
Had everyone go a little lighter on the deep half 2 minute rounds. The person on top went easy on the entry then raised the intensity once they got to deep half to try to prevent being swept. I think this was a good way to get them to work with the position. We finished with a few free rolls and I worked my way to deep half a few times just to challenge myself and prove that it worked.
Students: Morgan, Andy, Justin
Small class today and the regular material for the week was pretty basic with kneeling guard break and double under pass which I knew both Morgan and Andy were familiar with. I've been working with Morgan a little bit on deep half so he requested to work on that some more. I'm feeling like I'm developing a seminar type format for this position as I've taught it occasionally. I'm figuring out the best progression which starts with escaping mount to deep half, I think this is a pretty direct approach to getting to the position. Then I'll introduce the Homer Simpson sweep and the students will attempt that through the other entries.
From there I go to side control and finally half guard. I usually teach to get an underhook with the knee shield before going to the position but there are several ways to get the underhook. Finally I add in some additional sweeps using the lapel and the butterfly hook. I hardly ever make it to the waiter sweep and may make that and back takes a part of the advanced seminar.
Rolling: Deep Half Lab, Free Rolling
Rolled With: Everyone
Had everyone go a little lighter on the deep half 2 minute rounds. The person on top went easy on the entry then raised the intensity once they got to deep half to try to prevent being swept. I think this was a good way to get them to work with the position. We finished with a few free rolls and I worked my way to deep half a few times just to challenge myself and prove that it worked.
Friday, November 11, 2016
November 11th 2016 - Gi All Levels
Theme & Techniques: Half Guard Stuff
Students: Morgan, Jess
As part of the warm-up I had them do a few of the partner exercises that I like. Standing guard break to situp, side control 180 rotations with and without arms, and using harness grips and butterfly hooks to kick them to the side and regain back mount.
Just the three of us this morning so we worked on some other half guard stuff per Morgan's request. I showed some stuff from Ryan Halls Deep Half DVD.
Rolling: Half Guard, Free Rolling
Had some great rolls round robin style and we each got a round on top and bottom with each other. I saw both of them successfully attempt the hip switch pass which has been one of my highest percentage half guard passes.
I free rolled with Morgan a few times after class and almost got caught in a triangle that he threw up. I showed him a defense for over/under pass as I used it a couple of times during the day.
Thoughts:
It's becoming more apparent to me that my game is relatively unique within our school. Not a lot of people attempt deep half guard, cross guard, attack from knee on belly, and do north/south choke. Greg and the purple belts have been helpful in me developing these positions and techniques but ultimately I've been in control of my progress and forming my game.
This is a major difference I've observed between BJJ and other martial arts that I've practiced in the past where it seemed like everyone stuck to a curriculum and wanted to look the same as the instructor. A lot of it has to do with being required to make things work for you in sparring. You're going to naturally gravitate to those techniques that work for you or solve problems that you have during the Jiu-Jitsu journey.
Of course the fundamentals that we learn in beginner class are the most important to understand and get down first, but I'd say after 2 or 3 times through the curriculum a student should start to form their own game. Don't wait for anyone to tell you what you need to work on.
Students: Morgan, Jess
As part of the warm-up I had them do a few of the partner exercises that I like. Standing guard break to situp, side control 180 rotations with and without arms, and using harness grips and butterfly hooks to kick them to the side and regain back mount.
Just the three of us this morning so we worked on some other half guard stuff per Morgan's request. I showed some stuff from Ryan Halls Deep Half DVD.
- Use the knee shield to to get an underhook.
- Knee shield twist sweep
- Knee shield twist sweep to arm drag
- Hip switch pass from the top
Rolling: Half Guard, Free Rolling
Had some great rolls round robin style and we each got a round on top and bottom with each other. I saw both of them successfully attempt the hip switch pass which has been one of my highest percentage half guard passes.
I free rolled with Morgan a few times after class and almost got caught in a triangle that he threw up. I showed him a defense for over/under pass as I used it a couple of times during the day.
Thoughts:
It's becoming more apparent to me that my game is relatively unique within our school. Not a lot of people attempt deep half guard, cross guard, attack from knee on belly, and do north/south choke. Greg and the purple belts have been helpful in me developing these positions and techniques but ultimately I've been in control of my progress and forming my game.
This is a major difference I've observed between BJJ and other martial arts that I've practiced in the past where it seemed like everyone stuck to a curriculum and wanted to look the same as the instructor. A lot of it has to do with being required to make things work for you in sparring. You're going to naturally gravitate to those techniques that work for you or solve problems that you have during the Jiu-Jitsu journey.
Of course the fundamentals that we learn in beginner class are the most important to understand and get down first, but I'd say after 2 or 3 times through the curriculum a student should start to form their own game. Don't wait for anyone to tell you what you need to work on.
Friday, October 28, 2016
October 28th 2016 - Gi All Levels
Theme & Techniques: Koshi Guruma, Standing Guard Break, Torreando Pass, Knee Over Pass, X-Pass
Students: Craig, Tom, Ryal
Was the instructor today and added some throw fitins to the warm-up. We then went right into Koshi Guruma.
We did quite a few reps with the standing guard break and switched out the pass. I liked showing some other options from the standing guard break. I've gone over the x-pass with a few people lately and have enjoyed adding it to my teaching repertoire.
Rolling: Guard, Free Rolling
Made sure to try the standing guard break as often as possible when on top. The topic came up with Ryal if it was good to come up with them or not and I mentioned that it's possible to just stand-up and turn it into some judo. I've been thwarted with this before and would like to think of some go to throws to deal with this.
Played some more cross guard today from the bottom and focused on transitioning to back roll or triangle. Went over being stacked in a triangle with Tom and how I treat it like defending a double under pass and spread my knees out onto their arms until I can get my posture back and lock up the triangle again or go to guard.
Office Hours Partner: Tom
We drilled some cross guard and helped him with some specifics of getting to the position and getting the wrist to the other side. We rolled a few times and had a good discussion about progressing in BJJ.
Students: Craig, Tom, Ryal
Was the instructor today and added some throw fitins to the warm-up. We then went right into Koshi Guruma.
We did quite a few reps with the standing guard break and switched out the pass. I liked showing some other options from the standing guard break. I've gone over the x-pass with a few people lately and have enjoyed adding it to my teaching repertoire.
Rolling: Guard, Free Rolling
Made sure to try the standing guard break as often as possible when on top. The topic came up with Ryal if it was good to come up with them or not and I mentioned that it's possible to just stand-up and turn it into some judo. I've been thwarted with this before and would like to think of some go to throws to deal with this.
Played some more cross guard today from the bottom and focused on transitioning to back roll or triangle. Went over being stacked in a triangle with Tom and how I treat it like defending a double under pass and spread my knees out onto their arms until I can get my posture back and lock up the triangle again or go to guard.
Office Hours Partner: Tom
We drilled some cross guard and helped him with some specifics of getting to the position and getting the wrist to the other side. We rolled a few times and had a good discussion about progressing in BJJ.
Wednesday, October 26, 2016
October 26th 2016 - Gi All Levels
Theme & Techniques: Blue Belt Curriculum Page 1 and some Cross Guard
Student: Ben
Only Ben showed up today and I was so thankful to have at least one. The real curriculum of this week included Standing Guard Break, Torreando Pass, and Koshi Guruma which we covered a little bit of during the process. I had him do a couple reps of each techniques and then gave him a few pointers if I saw some things. A lot of the things were pretty nit picky but I think a few of the things he said were helpful tips.
We talked a bit about cross guard as a position and getting the omoplata. He was skipping over the position a little bit to get to the omoplata which makes it more difficult to get the wrist into the opposite hip.
We rolled a few times with some breaks to discuss a couple of options from positions. He said he liked rolling this way with a little bit of instruction mixed in. I think it has it's time and place and definitely don't want to be the guy that stops a roll for instruction because I'm going to get caught in a submission and I do my best to avoid being patronizing to anyone.
Student: Ben
Only Ben showed up today and I was so thankful to have at least one. The real curriculum of this week included Standing Guard Break, Torreando Pass, and Koshi Guruma which we covered a little bit of during the process. I had him do a couple reps of each techniques and then gave him a few pointers if I saw some things. A lot of the things were pretty nit picky but I think a few of the things he said were helpful tips.
We talked a bit about cross guard as a position and getting the omoplata. He was skipping over the position a little bit to get to the omoplata which makes it more difficult to get the wrist into the opposite hip.
We rolled a few times with some breaks to discuss a couple of options from positions. He said he liked rolling this way with a little bit of instruction mixed in. I think it has it's time and place and definitely don't want to be the guy that stops a roll for instruction because I'm going to get caught in a submission and I do my best to avoid being patronizing to anyone.
Thursday, October 13, 2016
October 13th 2016 - Gi All Levels
Theme & Techniques: Seoi Nage, Cross Collar Choke from Back, Guillotine from Closed Guard
Students: Bhuvana, Shane, Jess, Anthony, Frank
Had them do a standing arm drag to the back to valley drop drill for part of the warm-up. With Seoi Nage I tried to incorporate some of the stuff that Bob has helped me with. Stepping into the tip of the triangle and getting them off balance. One thing I also emphasized today was the importance of falling correctly.
The cross collar choke or sliding lapel choke has actually turned into one of my highest percentage chokes. At first I discounted it because I liked the bow and arrow so much more, but now I go to this first and then if I can't finish it will transition to bow and arrow. I consider this choke pretty direct and I don't have to work as hard.
With the guillotine Bhuvana actually pointed out something that I forgot during instruction which is how Greg gets his hip off to the side. It's a really great detail as you really get out of their way as their head falls to the floor.
Rolling: Back Mount, Guard, Free Rolling
I didn't get to roll that much today due to even number of students. Saw some good stuff and was surprised by Anthony as he just came back from a long break. He was using his flexibility and redirecting bigger guys pretty well. Jess the new guy was doing some good things too but also gassing himself out a bit, won't be long before he gets used to it. I saw Shane setup an awesome triangle and when he got stacked he underhooked the far leg and took total control of his partners posture. So cool to watch people improve.
Students: Bhuvana, Shane, Jess, Anthony, Frank
Had them do a standing arm drag to the back to valley drop drill for part of the warm-up. With Seoi Nage I tried to incorporate some of the stuff that Bob has helped me with. Stepping into the tip of the triangle and getting them off balance. One thing I also emphasized today was the importance of falling correctly.
The cross collar choke or sliding lapel choke has actually turned into one of my highest percentage chokes. At first I discounted it because I liked the bow and arrow so much more, but now I go to this first and then if I can't finish it will transition to bow and arrow. I consider this choke pretty direct and I don't have to work as hard.
With the guillotine Bhuvana actually pointed out something that I forgot during instruction which is how Greg gets his hip off to the side. It's a really great detail as you really get out of their way as their head falls to the floor.
Rolling: Back Mount, Guard, Free Rolling
I didn't get to roll that much today due to even number of students. Saw some good stuff and was surprised by Anthony as he just came back from a long break. He was using his flexibility and redirecting bigger guys pretty well. Jess the new guy was doing some good things too but also gassing himself out a bit, won't be long before he gets used to it. I saw Shane setup an awesome triangle and when he got stacked he underhooked the far leg and took total control of his partners posture. So cool to watch people improve.
Wednesday, October 12, 2016
October 12th 2016 - Gi All Levels
Theme & Techniques: Single Leg-X: Entry from kneeling and standing, Tech Stand-up sweep, Transition to full X
Students: Frank, Chris C
I was a little worried that no one was showing up at 5 till. Frank and Chris mosied on in and I was so happy. After some basic floor exercise warm-ups we did some standing guard break drills and everyone's favorite 180 side control movement drills.
I decided to work on single leg x since I was pretty sure they haven't practiced it and I feel it's pretty useful. The cool thing was that both of them said they had been on the receiving end of it several times but didn't know how to do it.
Rolling: Single Leg-X, Free Rolling
Rolled With: Chris, Frank
Had them roll with each other starting from the SLX position and while they didn't do great from there I got some satisfaction seeing them get to the position without thinking about it every time. I got some rolling in too with a focus on open guard.
Students: Frank, Chris C
I was a little worried that no one was showing up at 5 till. Frank and Chris mosied on in and I was so happy. After some basic floor exercise warm-ups we did some standing guard break drills and everyone's favorite 180 side control movement drills.
I decided to work on single leg x since I was pretty sure they haven't practiced it and I feel it's pretty useful. The cool thing was that both of them said they had been on the receiving end of it several times but didn't know how to do it.
Rolling: Single Leg-X, Free Rolling
Rolled With: Chris, Frank
Had them roll with each other starting from the SLX position and while they didn't do great from there I got some satisfaction seeing them get to the position without thinking about it every time. I got some rolling in too with a focus on open guard.
Friday, September 23, 2016
September 23rd 2016 - Gi All Levels
Theme & Techniques: Standing RNC Defense to O-Soto Gari, Kneeling Guard Break to Single Under Pass, Defense with elbow stiff arm
Students: Craig, Jeff, Jesus, Tyler (New)
Got to teach again this morning and had a decent turnout. I duplicated Wednesday's warm-up and had them work on sit-out and sprawling.
At the end of class while stretching I've been asking if anyone learned anything today. Everyone usually says yes, but not everyone always answers when I ask "what?" Everyone came up with something today which included: "Learned to pick a side with my head when doing the sitout", "Lead with my hips instead of my head when passing butterfly guard to avoid loop chokes." Makes me feel like I did some good instructing.
Rolling: Guard, Free Rolling
Rolled With: Jesus, Jeff
Felt like loop choke is coming back for me as a viable technique, I've been sneaking it in a lot lately from butterfly guard. I think the big thing is that I'm also more willing to roll with it to make it tighter where I used to try to stay upright in guard.
Helped Jeff with defending from side control and mount and enforcing that when defending he needs to try to get back flat on his back. This was quite an epiphany for me when I was told that I actually didn't want to be on my side all the time in side control, because it exposes your arm and back to attacks. Of course in the process of bridging and hip escaping you will be on your side momentarily but you don't want to hang out there.
Students: Craig, Jeff, Jesus, Tyler (New)
Got to teach again this morning and had a decent turnout. I duplicated Wednesday's warm-up and had them work on sit-out and sprawling.
At the end of class while stretching I've been asking if anyone learned anything today. Everyone usually says yes, but not everyone always answers when I ask "what?" Everyone came up with something today which included: "Learned to pick a side with my head when doing the sitout", "Lead with my hips instead of my head when passing butterfly guard to avoid loop chokes." Makes me feel like I did some good instructing.
Rolling: Guard, Free Rolling
Rolled With: Jesus, Jeff
Felt like loop choke is coming back for me as a viable technique, I've been sneaking it in a lot lately from butterfly guard. I think the big thing is that I'm also more willing to roll with it to make it tighter where I used to try to stay upright in guard.
Helped Jeff with defending from side control and mount and enforcing that when defending he needs to try to get back flat on his back. This was quite an epiphany for me when I was told that I actually didn't want to be on my side all the time in side control, because it exposes your arm and back to attacks. Of course in the process of bridging and hip escaping you will be on your side momentarily but you don't want to hang out there.
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
September 21st 2016 - Gi All Levels
Theme & Techniques: Bent over Headlock Escape to Tani Otoshi, Kneeling Guard Break to Single Under Pass, Defense with elbow stiff arm
Students: Tom, Daniel, Ben, Evan
During warm-up I had them work on the sit-out which progressed from an individual exercise, to a partner exercise from headlock position, to attempting a shot, getting sprawled on and then completing the sit-out. This is something that I want to improve on for myself so hopefully they got something out of it too.
Tips on techniques:
Rolling: Guard, Free Rolling
Sat out a few rolls and coached and then was able to get in some rolls myself. Gave pointers where I could. Saw Daniel in an omoplata and told him to do a barrel roll to sweep. He made the comment, "so that's what that's all about." Helped Evan a bit with the basics of half guard and getting on his side. I was able to hit a spiral armbar from side control that I had a textbook setup on so pretty stoked about that.
Office Hours Partner: Daniel, Tom
Rolled with Daniel a few times and apparently he accidentally opened up some stitches that he's been dealing with. Hopefully he'll be able to get back on the mats soon. We discussed north/south choke a bit because he said he's been caught with it lately. Worked on cross guard and shin on shin to single x with Tom after that. I'm trying to help him find his guard.
Students: Tom, Daniel, Ben, Evan
During warm-up I had them work on the sit-out which progressed from an individual exercise, to a partner exercise from headlock position, to attempting a shot, getting sprawled on and then completing the sit-out. This is something that I want to improve on for myself so hopefully they got something out of it too.
Tips on techniques:
- Tani Otoshi: One of my favorite throws in theory but I haven't hit it often in live rolling. The biggest improvement that I see is when people are told to guide their partner around in a circle to their back.
- Single Under Pass: Put an emphasis on separating the steps into 3 specific movements. Moving straight in to lift their hips off the floor, turning 90 degrees, then moving straight forward to move their legs to the ground. Deviating from that can give the guard player some leverage.
Rolling: Guard, Free Rolling
Sat out a few rolls and coached and then was able to get in some rolls myself. Gave pointers where I could. Saw Daniel in an omoplata and told him to do a barrel roll to sweep. He made the comment, "so that's what that's all about." Helped Evan a bit with the basics of half guard and getting on his side. I was able to hit a spiral armbar from side control that I had a textbook setup on so pretty stoked about that.
Office Hours Partner: Daniel, Tom
Rolled with Daniel a few times and apparently he accidentally opened up some stitches that he's been dealing with. Hopefully he'll be able to get back on the mats soon. We discussed north/south choke a bit because he said he's been caught with it lately. Worked on cross guard and shin on shin to single x with Tom after that. I'm trying to help him find his guard.
Friday, September 2, 2016
September 2nd 2016 - Gi All Levels
Theme & Techniques: Side Control: Americana, Bridge to Knee in to Recover Guard, Transition to Mount
Students: Jordan, Craig, Steven, Ben, Tim, Jesus, Evan
Got to teach class again and was happy with the turnout on a Friday morning. Had them do the best case scenario drill (which I need to find a better name for) and Jordan helped me get everyone through it. I think a few of them realized that they need a game plan for tournaments.
Taught the same techniques as Greg since several people used O-soto gari for their takedown and they looked fine. Probably the thing I thought people needed the most improvement on was their bridge and hip escape combination, but I think that comes with time.
Rolling: Up/Down/Out Side Control, Free Rolling
Very cool to have enough people to do 3 groups of up/down/out. Saw a lot of good escapes and transitions to mount. I played some knee on belly and went for the transition to mount several times. Got to coach a few people and tried to evenly spread out my comments.
Office Hours Partner: Jordan
Went over twister side control since it occurred during rolling. Showed him the position and transitioning to mount and the basic back take. Mostly emphasized that when he's on the bottom he didn't want to give me his far leg. We also went over the quarter guard rolling back take as I feel that's an easier technique to learn this movement from. No one else wanted to stay and roll.
Students: Jordan, Craig, Steven, Ben, Tim, Jesus, Evan
Got to teach class again and was happy with the turnout on a Friday morning. Had them do the best case scenario drill (which I need to find a better name for) and Jordan helped me get everyone through it. I think a few of them realized that they need a game plan for tournaments.
Taught the same techniques as Greg since several people used O-soto gari for their takedown and they looked fine. Probably the thing I thought people needed the most improvement on was their bridge and hip escape combination, but I think that comes with time.
Rolling: Up/Down/Out Side Control, Free Rolling
Very cool to have enough people to do 3 groups of up/down/out. Saw a lot of good escapes and transitions to mount. I played some knee on belly and went for the transition to mount several times. Got to coach a few people and tried to evenly spread out my comments.
Office Hours Partner: Jordan
Went over twister side control since it occurred during rolling. Showed him the position and transitioning to mount and the basic back take. Mostly emphasized that when he's on the bottom he didn't want to give me his far leg. We also went over the quarter guard rolling back take as I feel that's an easier technique to learn this movement from. No one else wanted to stay and roll.
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