Back Control

In Jiu-jitsu, there is something referred to as "positional hierarchy". This means that certain positions have greater value than others in combat/contest. That value is determined on how much damage you can inflict on your opponent in comparison to the amount the opponent can do to you.

In sport Jiu-jitsu, this hierarchy is reflected in the point system. The most dominant positions. back mount and mount, are worth the most points. Lesser points are also awarded for knee on belly position, guard sweeps, guard passes and takedowns. 

There are hundreds of opportunities for other positions and submissions en route, but the positional advancement we seek in Jiu-jitsu is ultimately aimed at gaining back control.

As I like to put it, we "prompt" our opponents into certain positions by using proper body mechanics.

In the video below, Jiu-jitsu black belt, Jason Scully demonstrates many back mount entry options. I like the video and wanted to share it because it reminds us that in almost all controlling positions, there is an opportunity to take back mount. 

Inside Dynamic Martial Arts--October 2014

Testing for youth and adult students went very well on the 27th. We had over 40 youth members on the mat performing their exam. Everyone got through it and either received a new belt or stripe.  In the future, we do plan to split the testing into two separate times or days. I believe this will accommodate everyone better and help those on the mat stay focused. 

If anyone missed the exam day and still needs to do a make up test, we are scheduling one for October 11th. Talk to your instructor about the times. If you cannot make it on the 11th, be sure to schedule a day with your instructor. 

We are entering an exciting second week in the new cycle. This week our youth students will be working on positional escapes. The adults will be drilling some cool standing guard passes.