A Transitional Period in my Life

I had to switch BJJ schools because GBSD closed down.  I really loved training with the people at GBSD: Alby, Brian, Justin, Ryan, and Thuy just to name a few.  I will truly miss my GB family.

Today, Nov. 7, 2015, I officially signed up at ATOS, one of the best and most competitive Brazilian Jiu Jitsu schools in the world.  The cost is more than I would like, but being able to train with some of the best in the world really appeals to me. Iron sharpens iron.

My Fiancée's Classmate is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt

So it turns out that my fiancee's classmate is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt under Fabio Santos! Caleb Queern was nice enough to invite me to drop by Monday for open mat. This is the same Celab that runs the Fightworks Podcast! I was able to get in a few rolls with him and a couple of brown belts.

Troubleshooting Side Control

If opponent sticks their arm between my side control, go to mount. -Justin

Torreando Counter with Arm Drag or Rollover Sweep

Torreando Counter with Arm Drag or Rollover Sweep with Jeff Glover

Detail on Seatbelt Grip From Behind

Brazilian black belt Alex gave me an Brian a tip last night for Seatbelt Grip from behind. The arm that is under your opponent's armpit grips on top of the hand/arm that is over your opponent's shoulder. The reason is that your opponent will likely push off your top gripping hand, in which case you can continue your hand/arm above their shoulder for a choke. This tip was like a light bulb moment.

In class yesterday, Justin went over the following:

• Fireman's Carry (Throw)
• Bow and Arrow Choke (without foot over opponent's shoulder)
• Bow and Arrow Choke with shin to back of opponent's head.
• Brazilian black belt Alex showed a modified Bow and Arrow Choke where you remove your leg from underneath your opponent but without putting your foot on your opponent's shoulder. The key is to remove your leg as you're laying your opponent down.