TFS#52: Branching Out

This newsletter is officially 1 year old! Thank you for reading and continuing to support this newsletter. It's meant to encourage lower belts to pursue their unique path and grow their Jiu-Jitsu.

Now onto today's topic...

I normally would advise white belts to stay away from flashy moves. Only because you should be focusing on your fundamentals.

Also, if you don’t know the proper movements, you can seriously hurt yourself or your partner.

But as a blue belt, you have the basics down and are ready to explore the wonderful world of Jiu-Jitsu.

Trying new flashy moves out of your comfort zone can help expand your horizon. It requires risk but it's worth the experience.

Here are 3 fun techniques to explore:

1. Flying Armbar​

Before you attempt this move, make sure you understand the basic mechanics of an armbar.

Just like a normal armbar, you’ll want control of your opponent’s elbow and opposite wrist before you launch yourself.

Make sure your hips are below their elbow. Lose control of the elbow, lose the submission.

Don’t hesitate to execute, there is no half-commitment for this move.

2. Tornado Guard​

The tornado guard stems from the half guard, where one leg is between your opponent’s leg.

It’s a great way to setup sweeps or transitions into other positions.

You'll be glad to have multiple tricks up your sleeve.

3. Squirrel Lock​

Some describe the squirrel lock as a kimura done from bottom side control.

So now you’ll have the buggy choke and squirrel lock for offense when you (still) get put in bottom side control.

Remember: safety first!

Don’t compromise safety. That’s why I encourage you to drill the techniques until you are comfortable with movements and understand the potential accidents.

Something worth noting: drill with an upper belt since they'd be familiar with the movements (such as the flying armbar).

For Your Jiu-Jitsu

→ Off-balancing is one of the key aspects of Jiu-Jitsu that doesn’t get enough coverage. Learn to sweep like a boss.

→ Getting your black belt is only a matter of time…so here’s how to stay durable and ensure you achieve it.

→ John Danaher expects his students to do their own warm-ups. I use this as a way to start my day even when I’m not training Jiu-Jitsu.

Closing Words

I’m currently on Twitter so feel free to connect with me @WayneTerran.

I’m also going to start an Instagram and Facebook account which I’ll share when it’s up and running.

If you’re already on either, share your handle with me and I’ll add you automatically!

Branching out and connecting with more people like yourself is my way of giving back to the community.

There are a lot of newsletters and courses out there but I want to build something different, something new. And that starts with the community. Community comes first.

I know I’ll face challenges along the way since it’s never easy starting something new.

If you enjoy this newsletter, there's 2 things you can do:

1. Share this: You can share this link or forward them this email to help a friend sign up to. More readers mean more feedback, and more feedback means better newsletters.

2. Get more: This is my website where I’ve organized a collection of techniques, workouts, and ideas. I don't recommend anything that I feel wasn't helpful.