Mastering Jujitsu (Mastering Martial Arts) by Renzo Gracie and John Danaher is a martial arts book published in 2003.
Mastering Jujitsu offers more than just technical instruction, blending the history, philosophy, and strategy of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) with clear explanations of fundamental techniques.
The book covers the evolution of BJJ from traditional jujutsu and judo, highlighting principles like leverage, timing, and positional control. It also delves into self-defense applications, sport versus street scenarios, and the adaptation of BJJ for mixed martial arts.
Danaher’s analytical depth combined with Gracie’s practical experience creates a well-rounded exploration of combat theory suitable for both beginners and advanced practitioners.
These are brief notes highlighting the main points, without delving into the history of BJJ or detailed technical analysis.
Purchase the book by clicking this link!
Enjoy!
Table of Contents
3 Phases of Combat
- Free-Movement Phase
- Standing Clinch
- Ground Combat
Take the opponent into a phase where they are least skilled compared to you
Key Findings from Combat Studies
- Fights often end on the ground
- Ground combat offers more control than standing phases
- Size & strength matter less on the ground
Common Clinches & Transitions
- Collar-and-Elbow Clinch → Transition to Rear Clinch (Duck Under)
- Standing Guillotine → Escape via Outside Russian (Wrist & Elbow Control)
- Over-Under Clinch → Pummel to Double Underhooks → Inside/Outside Trip
- Neck Clinch (Plum) → Snap Down to Front Headlock → Cross Ankle Pick
- Rear Clinch → Rear Trip or Escape via Kimura
- Front Headlock Clinch → Flying Guillotine
Off-balance the opponent (linear or circular) to make them focus on recovering balance
Drills by Phase
- Free Movement
- Shadow Fighting
- Equipment Training (mats, speed/agility)
- Sparring
- Clinch Drills
- Sumo Drill – Score when opponent touches hand/knee to ground or steps out
- Pummeling Drill – Score for rear clinch, headlock, or lifting both feet off ground
- Ground Drills
- Bottom Position
- Rear Mount Escape
- Mount Escape
- Turtle Escape
- Armless-Guard Drill
- Top Position
- Positional Maintenance Drills
- Repetitive Guard-Passing Drill
- Bottom Position
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