TFS#83: Chaining Attacks & Shoulder Strength

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Now, on to today’s topic…

Not Just A Pit Stop

Last week, I talked about the versatility of the Spider-Lasso Guard.

If you’re a lower belt and still trying to figure out what guard you like to play or simply need a way to slow down your opponent, give this guard a shot.

As mentioned before, it’s a great place to control (slow down) your opponent and allow yourself to connect to your favorite guard or attack.

Today, we’ll take a look at a few attack options.

🔑 Key detail: Put some real tension on the spider leg. Whether you’re stepping on the bicep or shoulder. I personally prefer the shoulder since it tilts their body more, making it easier to control their body.

🔑 Key detail: Make sure your Lasso is tight. Pull on the hand and keep your knuckles behind your thigh. If you’re playing shallow lasso, Engage the foot to either push or pull depending on whether your opponent is pulling away or pressing into you. If you’re playing deep lasso, keep your shin attached to your lat and the foot behind their lat.

One easy setup is the Omoplata, which is available on the Lasso side.

And if you feel your opponent resisting the Omo by posturing up, you can connect to the Triangle or Armbar…and even switch back to the Omo depending on how they defend.

To see the whole chain, watch it here.

Shoulder Strengthening

Trying to out muscle an Omoplata or Kimura submission might not be the smartest thing.

I get if you’re in the World Finals and hanging on for the title…maybe, I get it.

But if you’re reading this newsletter, I’m going to assume you’re not a professional fighter.

Tight shoulders become more common as we age, so it’s important to not just strengthen them but to also work on your mobility.

Don’t get injured. Stay on the mats.

Here are tips and exercises that will strengthen your shoulders.

More Resources

🥋 You’ll get a lot out of watching recorded videos of your sparring rounds. An underrated way to use recordings is to prevent injuries. (link)

🥋 Use these 5 methods to improve your Jiu-Jitsu before the new year. You’ll want to get a head start. (link)

🥋 When you’re down on points and need the sweep in competition, here are 5 easy sweeps from Spider-Lasso. (link)

👉 Build resilient, stable shoulders for rock-steady frames, while forging an unbreakable grip and wrists for durability and performance. (link)

*Links with 👉 emoji is an ad or affiliate link.
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Closing Remarks

Most times of the year, your rolls should be playful and explorative.

And exploring includes “losing” and giving up positions.

Some times you have to take one step back to take two steps forward.

If the Spider-Lasso is new to you, get used to entering into the position.

Then you can progress to attempting a sweep or submission.

And if those fail, learn to transition.

Continuous attempts for these moves will build your confidence.

And it’s the confidence that will allow you to execute.

But before we go, I have one question for you:

Stay persistent into the holidays,

Wayne

In the Spider-Lasso's embrace,
Control and transitions find their place.
Chaining attacks, it excels,
With a grip that compels,
A web of finesse in BJJ's chase.

P.S. Don’t forget what your belt really says about you.