TFS#103: Sweeps and Attacks, Little Joints, & Experience

If you’re actively trying to improve any skillset, you’ll have to take risks.

Luckily, Jiu-Jitsu provides the perfect learning grounds for that.

Trying new techniques or ideas during sparring is the safest place to fail.

The last thing you want to do is say “gosh I wish I knew X and did Y when I was a lower belt.”

Invest in yourself by taking risks and putting yourself in new environments.

Speaking of new environments, I’m trying to gather interested people who are dedicated to improving their Jiu-Jitsu on a focused community board.

It’ll be dedicated to Jiu-Jitsu topics—so no more doom scrolling on social media.

And it’s got black belts dedicated to answer all your questions while providing reference videos.

If you’d like to learn more about this community, feel free to reply to this email with any questions you may have.

Now on to today’s topic…

TECHNIQUE OF THE WEEK

Options When They Posture

Last week, we went over chain of attacks from Closed Guard.

Controlling your opponent’s posture is important since it keeps them unbalanced and uncomfortable.

However, in the event that they begin to stand up, be ready to deal with this situation with sweeps or transition to a guard.

Most people like to threaten with a sweep.

Lumbarjack Sweep → Mount. This is a nice option because it’s simple and should be your first option. After you get your opponent on the ground and while you try to come up into Mount, they may stiff arm you. Which you can use to attack the Armbar.

But if the sweep isn’t quite there, you can transition into a few strong guards.

One of the easiest is the X Guard.

From this guard you have a plethora of attacks and other sweeps.

JIU-JITSU LONGEVITY

More On Your Digits

I noticed that last week’s section on finger health was quite popular.

Aside from stretches, here are some workouts for your fingers.

Also, if you’re looking to tape your finger, watch this quick video.

MORE RESOURCES

Resources you’ll love

🥋 Learn Jiu-Jitsu…faster. (link)

🥋 Lower back hurts because you got stacked? No, you’re just getting old. Work on your lower back with this video. (link)

🥋 If your hip flexors are tight and weak, chances are, you may have trouble with guard retention. Fix it here. (link)

👉 You only need this one exercise if you’re trying to improve your Jiu-Jitsu strength. (link)

🥋 If you refer subscribers, I’ll feature you in this section! (link)

Links with an 👉 emoji is an ad or affiliate link. Save your spot here.

CLOSING THOUGHT

Something to ponder

You can’t substitute experience.

Most people make decisions based on their past experience and will share advice based on what they know.

That’s normal.

But be wary of those who make bold claims and speak confidently—it’s quite a skill.

Ultimately, it’s your job to go out, meet a lot of people and decide who you want to trust and listen to.

Don’t get caught up in arguments if there’s no end resolution.

Sometimes, they’re intentionally trying to rile up emotions.

When you get out and experience more of the world, you’ll find yourself more grounded.

You’ll know the worth of your words and your actions.

Until next week,

Wayne

P.S. Where knowledge comes from.