Hey guys! Ever wondered where to start with Jiu Jitsu? Or maybe you're looking to brush up on the fundamentals? Well, you're in the right place! We're diving deep into the basics with none other than Jordan, a seasoned Jiu Jitsu practitioner. Get ready to learn the essential moves, understand the core concepts, and build a solid foundation for your Jiu Jitsu journey.

Why Jiu Jitsu Basics Matter

Okay, so why should you even bother focusing on the basics? I mean, flashy moves and complicated submissions look way cooler, right? Wrong! Think of the basics as the foundation of a house. If your foundation is weak, the whole house is going to crumble, no matter how fancy the decorations are. In Jiu Jitsu, mastering the basics is what allows you to execute advanced techniques effectively and efficiently.

First off, the basics give you a strong defense. Knowing how to properly defend yourself in various positions is crucial for survival on the mat. It allows you to avoid submissions, escape bad spots, and create opportunities to attack. Without a solid defense, you'll constantly be on the defensive and struggle to impose your game. For example, a proper guard retention will prevent your opponent from passing and allow you to maintain control.

Secondly, the basics provide a solid offensive framework. Many submissions and sweeps are built upon fundamental movements and concepts. If you don't understand these basics, you'll have a hard time executing more complex techniques. For example, the armbar, a very common submission, relies on controlling your opponent's arm, isolating it, and applying pressure at the elbow joint. This requires a good understanding of body positioning, leverage, and control, which are all fundamental concepts.

Thirdly, mastering the basics allows you to adapt to different styles and opponents. Jiu Jitsu is a dynamic art, and you'll encounter a wide range of styles and approaches. A strong foundation in the basics will enable you to adjust your game, identify weaknesses, and exploit opportunities, regardless of who you're rolling with. You'll be able to recognize familiar patterns and apply the appropriate techniques, even if your opponent is doing something unexpected. This adaptability is what separates a good Jiu Jitsu practitioner from a great one.

Finally, the basics help you develop a deeper understanding of Jiu Jitsu principles. Concepts like leverage, balance, and pressure are essential for success in Jiu Jitsu. By focusing on the basics, you'll gain a better appreciation for these principles and how they apply to different situations. This understanding will improve your overall game and allow you to make better decisions on the mat. You'll begin to see the connections between different techniques and develop a more intuitive understanding of the art.

In short, don't underestimate the power of the basics. They are the bedrock of your Jiu Jitsu journey and will continue to serve you well as you progress. Focus on mastering the fundamentals, and you'll be well on your way to becoming a skilled and well-rounded Jiu Jitsu practitioner.

Jordan's Top 5 Essential Jiu Jitsu Basics

Alright, let's get down to business! Jordan's here to walk us through his top 5 essential Jiu Jitsu basics that every beginner needs to know. These aren't just random moves; they're the building blocks for everything else you'll learn. So, pay close attention, and let's get started!

1. The Shrimp (Hip Escape)

The shrimp, also known as the hip escape, is a fundamental movement used to create space and reposition your body. It's your go-to move for escaping bad positions, improving your guard, and creating angles for attacks. This is probably one of the first things you'll learn, and for good reason. It's absolutely essential for defense and offense. Without a good hip escape, you'll find yourself stuck in uncomfortable positions and unable to mount any effective attacks. Think of it as your get-out-of-jail-free card on the mat. You can practice the shrimp anytime, anywhere, and it's a great way to warm up before training. The more you drill it, the more natural it will become, and the more effective you'll be at using it in live rolling.

To perform the shrimp, start by lying on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground. Then, bridge up, pushing off your feet and shoulders, and move your hips to one side. As you move your hips, bring your knee towards your chest on the same side. Then, extend your leg back out, creating space between you and your opponent. Repeat this movement on both sides, and you'll be shrimping like a pro in no time. Remember to keep your core engaged and your movements controlled. The shrimp is not about brute force; it's about technique and precision.

2. The Guard

The guard is your primary defensive position when you're on your back. It's where you control your opponent, prevent them from passing, and set up your own attacks. There are many different types of guards, but the most common are closed guard, open guard, and half guard. Each guard has its own advantages and disadvantages, and it's important to understand the basics of each one. Mastering the guard is essential for controlling the pace of the match and dictating the terms of engagement. A good guard can frustrate your opponent, tire them out, and create opportunities for sweeps and submissions. It's your safe zone, your fortress, and your launching pad for attacks.

In closed guard, you wrap your legs around your opponent's waist, preventing them from posturing up and generating power. This is a very secure position, but it can also be limiting in terms of attacking options. In open guard, you use your legs and feet to control your opponent's distance and create space. This allows for more mobility and a wider range of attacks, but it also requires more active control. In half guard, you trap one of your opponent's legs between your legs, creating a barrier and preventing them from passing. This is a versatile position that can be used to set up sweeps, submissions, and escapes. No matter which guard you choose, the key is to maintain control, stay active, and look for opportunities to improve your position.

3. The Mount Escape

The mount is a dominant position where your opponent is sitting on your chest. Escaping the mount is crucial because it's one of the most dangerous positions to be in. Your opponent has a significant advantage in terms of control and striking potential. The mount escape involves creating space, turning to your side, and recovering your guard. There are several different mount escapes, but the most common involves bridging and rolling your opponent over. A good mount escape can quickly turn the tables and put you back in control of the match. It's a skill that every Jiu Jitsu practitioner needs to master.

To perform the mount escape, start by protecting your face and neck with your arms. Then, bridge up, lifting your hips off the ground, and turn to one side. As you turn, hook your leg over your opponent's leg on the same side. Then, continue to roll your opponent over, using your momentum to sweep them off of you. As you roll them over, try to recover your guard and establish control. Remember to keep your movements explosive and your timing precise. The mount escape is not about strength; it's about technique and leverage. With practice, you'll be able to escape the mount with ease and confidence.

4. The Armbar from Guard

The armbar is a classic submission that can be applied from various positions, but it's most commonly taught from the guard. It involves isolating your opponent's arm, controlling their body, and applying pressure to the elbow joint. The armbar is a highly effective submission that can be used to finish a match quickly. However, it also requires precise technique and a good understanding of body positioning. A well-executed armbar is a thing of beauty, a testament to the power of leverage and control.

To set up the armbar from guard, start by controlling your opponent's posture and preventing them from posturing up. Then, secure one of their arms, pulling it across your body. As you pull the arm, swing your leg over their head, trapping their arm between your thighs. Then, squeeze your knees together, arch your back, and pull their arm towards your chest. This will put pressure on their elbow joint and force them to tap. Remember to maintain control of their body throughout the submission and to adjust your positioning as needed. The armbar is a dynamic submission that requires constant adjustments and refinements. With practice, you'll be able to apply it with speed, precision, and devastating effect.

5. The Americana

The Americana is a shoulder lock that is typically applied from the mount or side control. It involves controlling your opponent's wrist and elbow, and then rotating their arm behind their back. The Americana is a relatively simple submission to learn, but it can be highly effective if applied correctly. It's a great option for finishing a match when your opponent is turtling up or trying to defend other submissions. The Americana is a sneaky submission that can catch your opponent off guard and force them to tap before they even realize what's happening.

To apply the Americana, start by securing a figure-four grip on your opponent's wrist, with your thumb pointing towards their head. Then, use your other hand to control their elbow, preventing them from escaping. As you control their wrist and elbow, rotate their arm behind their back, applying pressure to their shoulder joint. This will cause them significant pain and force them to tap. Remember to maintain control of their body throughout the submission and to adjust your positioning as needed. The Americana is a versatile submission that can be adapted to different situations and opponents. With practice, you'll be able to apply it with confidence and precision.

Tips for Mastering the Basics

Okay, so you know the basics. Now, how do you actually master them? Here are a few tips from Jordan himself:

• Drill, drill, drill: Repetition is key! The more you drill these moves, the more they'll become second nature.
• Focus on technique, not strength: Jiu Jitsu is all about leverage and technique. Don't try to muscle your way through things.
• Ask questions: Don't be afraid to ask your instructor or training partners for help. Everyone starts somewhere!
• Be patient: It takes time and effort to master the basics. Don't get discouraged if you don't see results right away.
• Roll with different people: Rolling with different training partners will expose you to different styles and approaches, which will help you improve your overall game.

Keep Practicing!

So, there you have it! Jordan's guide to Jiu Jitsu basics. Remember, these are just the starting points. The real magic happens when you put in the time and effort to practice and refine your technique. Now get out there and start rolling! Good luck, have fun, and keep learning!