The Law Of Inertia

Newton's first law of motion (law of inertia) states that an object at rest will stay at rest, and an object in motion will stay in motion unless a force acts on it.

When you're passing guard, you're in motion.

When you run into a frame, they've exerted a force on you and you're no longer in motion.

If your opponent just holds their frame, you're in a state of rest.

In Jiu-Jitsu you don't want to be in rest (for too long)...especially if you're trying to pass guard.

If you don't move you'll allow them to set up their guard.

Don't force your way into the frames. Even if you smash through, you've spent a lot of your energy.

Smashing through can also build a bad habit. When you go up against a stronger person...your smash might not work.

You'll want to move around the frames. Whether it's changing your angles or backing out to reset the position.

Here's how to improve your passing in a few easy steps:

1. Be in constant motion. This doesn't mean you have to the quickest, darting side-to-side. But learn to move smoothly. You won't pass guard on the first attempt so chaining passing techniques will increase your chance of getting through.

2. If you don't like a position, just back out. Don't be afraid to reset. Break collar grips, sleeve grips, or leg grips to get out and free yourself. Back up and start your passing sequence again. This will also tire the guard player out and make them frustrated, giving your sequential attempt a better chance of succeeding.

3. Be patient, and don't force your favorite pass entry. Rather than trying to jump straight into the knee slide, move around and wait for an opening. Think about how you want your opponent to move, make them react a certain way...so it exposes them to your favorite move to counter.

Now let's start rolling...

Technique For The Week

I know I've been writing about guard passing a lot lately.

I prefer to see new students study passing a lot more than other areas. It allows them to connect to other positions and see the importance of prioritization.

Also, everyone can always improve their passing. Applies to all levels.

The video here will give you an excellent overview of the most common possibilities: Complete Guard Passing Overview.

Here is an outline of the video and timestamp:

• Legs are low (5:26)

• Legs are mid (7:00)

• Legs are high (8:38)

• Tilted (13:00)

• Wide Legs (20:01)

• They're sitting up (25:20)

I would recommend you write down a web map to help you see it on paper.

Word On The Tweet

This week I wanted to share what my approach to studying Jiu-Jitsu was.

Seems like a lot of people enjoyed my thread.

This made me want to expand on my strategy in the near future...

Along with that, I also wanted to better understand what got you to start Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Knowing why and what you're looking for in Jiu-Jitsu makes your goal and staying consistent easier.

Also, it helps me improve this newsletter for your future reads!

Closing Thoughts

Passing guard isn't easy.

But it's something you need to improve as your game continues to develop.

Upper belts are more well balanced and can defend against multiple pass techniques so you'll need to continuously work this part of your game.

But also be patient, passing takes lots of repetition and the experience you gain will help you see everything in "slow motion."