5 comments about Guerrilla Jiu-Jitsu: Revolutionizing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

1. Really informative technical book. Right up there with Isao Okano's Vital Judo vol. 1 and 2 on a technical level. On a personal level, Dave's struggles to remain relevant in both sports as well as trying to follow the advice of both his Judo and BJJ coaches was one the best parts of the book. It was nice to read a brief history of a young man steeped in Judo tradition and how watching the first UFC led him to BJJ and how that art helped him develop the methods that makes him one of the most sought after pro MMA trainers today.
   I am thankful for Dave's book, because his honest and progressive attitude in Judo and BJJ promotes open-minded cross-training that I hope will bring people together rather than continuing the "closed door" mentality that is currently keeping people apart.



2. Before I begin I want to say what a wonderful time we live in for MMA. Truly MMA is living up to it's title(MIXED martial arts)and this book will most definitely help you to mix your martial arts.
   
   The book begins with an overview of Dave Camarillo, one of the best jiu-jitsu instructors in the world. And explains how he took the two sports he loved(judo was first till he turned 19 and was introduced to jiu-jitsu)and meshed the two together. In such a way that the resulting style is not only simple but incredibly effective.
   
   The photos and layout are, usual with the latest Victory Belt publications, of excellent quality and design. Multiple angles, full color photos, and step by step instruction are just about everything you need. If you are new to either judo and/or jiu-jitsu you will be just as surprised, and delighted, to find training exercises to help you hone your skills when not working with a partner.
   
   I can't forget to mention the "Flying Attack" section. Want to know how to do those crazy mid-air submissions? You can find out how! And how to defend against them too.
   
   Overall, the instruction and concept are excellent. Mixing both judo and jiu-jitsu is fantastic and fun. This book is excellent and if you practice either style you will learn alot. For the beginner, let me ask you this question, how would you like to be setting up that armbar before you even clinch? Exactly, buy the book and find out.
   
   To quote Dave Camarillo in the opening of this book,"Judo is more technical on grip fighting and throws, and its players develop strength and speed. Jiu-jitsu is far more technical on the ground. If you combine the two, you plug the holes in each. Having the ability to chuck and out-grip your opponent certainly won't hurt you in a jiu-jitsu competition, nor will being able to pull out technical submissions during a judo match. At the very least, it gives you options."



3. The title might be a little misleading. This is not a book about Jiu Jitsu ONLY, it is a book about Judo throwing techniques and Jiu Jitsu submissions. Camarillo is truly a master of the grappling arts.



4. Regardless of whether you practice Judo or Jiu Jitsu, this book is for you. Great approach to take downs and submissions. Pictures are good.



5. With advocates like Josh Koscheck, Forrest Griffin, and BJ Penn, there is no doubt the training and instruction of Dave Camarillo works. Bridging the gap between his extensive judo experience and his later love for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) has created an innovative fusion Camarillo calls Guerilla Jiu-Jitsu, a study of the flaws in each practice that, when linked, create a superior fighting style..
   
   A brief introduction invites readers into Camarillo's life, his competition domination, and his legendary flying attacks. Knowing beforehand the author's experience and skill has been vetted in the gi and on the mat makes it easier to dive into the primary content - called "Incorporating Judo and Jiu-Jitsu" - that starts out with some very simplistic movements like rolls, falls, grips that appear trivial upon first glance. If, however, these fundamentals led to Camarillo's success, then who's to argue?
   
   After the first section, the next two sections cover submissions and flying attacks; respectively, the latter being Camarillo's claim to fame. If you'd like to learn some of the basics of armbars, triangles, and various BJJ-oriented submissions, this may be a perfect supplementary addition to your resources. If you're looking for the absolute basics, however, this book may not be the best option. Absolute BJJ basics like the guard are overlooked...which is to be expected when a beginner wouldn't get into Guerilla Jiu-Jitsu.
   
   Nonetheless, this book is packed with useful information, is from an impeccable source, is relevant for both judo and BJJ practicioners, and has tons of full color photos to demonstrate each move in easy to follow steps. Highly recommended for those interested.
   
   The review title is both a joke and a nod to one of the most shocking finishes in MMA history.

5 comments about Mastering the Twister: Jiu Jitsu for Mixed Martial Arts Competition.

1. This is Eddie Bravo's follow-up to his "Mastering the Rubber Guard" book, explaining the top game of his unorthodox 10th Planet BJJ system. For those who don't know, the "Twister" is Eddie's signature hold. It involves hooking both legs around one leg of your opponent, reaching across his back and under the opposite arm, and wrapping up the head for a neck crank; a similar move is seen in professional (show) wrestling called the "abdominal stretch", and it's known in amateur wrestling as the guillotine.
   
   Like "Mastering the Rubber Guard", Eddie's introduction offers no real insight into martial arts or grappling, he's simply on his soapbox about his personal epiphanies about life. This may interest some people, but I'm not one of them.
   
   Once we get into the actual techniques, the good stuff begins. The majority of the book focuses on the Twister and the set-ups, transisions, trouble-shooting, and finishes from it. Chapter 1 is on "Twister Side Control", which is basically a reverse scarf hold position. Eddie uses this position as his primary means to set up and transition to the Twister. However, in this chapter he also includes other holds and transitions, including a variety of chokes, arm locks, and leg locks. The following chapter is on "The Truck", which is essentially a leg ride that creates easy transitions to the Twister and a few different leg locks. This flows together well with his first chapter. It's here where he starts troubleshooting the Twister. The next three chapters are on the Mount, Back Control, and the Sprawl position. Here, Bravo goes over basic controls and finishes. Some are very basic while some are unconventional. I feel that these chapters are where the easiest-to-learn material comes in. Finally, the sixth chapter shows how to transition to the Twister from a number of positions, including guard passes, mount, and back control.
   
   The book uses color photos, multiple camera angles, and color-coded chapter headings, like all Victory Belt books. The production is excellent, as always.
   
   So why only four stars? I'm a firm believer in knowing the basics before moving on to more advanced stuff. For the most part, this book is for intermediate and advanced students. Simply put, if you've never submitted someone with a Kumura from side control or an arm bar from mount, you shouldn't be reading this book yet. If you can't pass guard, the top game here will be useless to you. Also, many of the maneuvers related to the Twister involved taking rolls, which takes a degree of agility that not everyone possesses. So this book is definitely not for everyone.
   
   Still, overall, due to the production and unique techniques it contains, I must recommend this book to those with a year or more of grappling training. These techniques are becoming more and more common on the competition circuit, so if you don't have at least a familiarity with them, you're behind the curve.



2. I'VE TRAINED IN BJJ FOR YEARS I FOUND THE LITTLE TIPS GIVEN IN THIS BOOK HELPED ME OUT MORE THEN ANYOTHER BOOK ON JUJITSU .. THERE ARE ALOT OF VIDEO FROM EDDIE [...]



3. This book is awsome. It is very detailed and gives you submissions, passes and control positions for every move or counter move your opponent can throw at you. So no matter what your catching them in something. It is a very great Jiu Jitsu system and would be a great wepon to add to your arsenal.



4. good book, I got more from the first book mastering the rubber guard.
   
   flexibility is a must.



5. My title expalins it. If your a serious grappler and take the time to learn the techniques in this book, your bound to have some serious fun, especially in competitions and surprising your classmates. That aside, your being learning a lot of moves that tie well together and anyone you train with will benefit as well from this, by learning to defend against the moves and possibly learning to use them as well.
   
   If your going to use it, it's great, if not. Don't waste money on something you don't intend to use or have discipline and plan to use.

4 comments about Passing the Guard: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Details and Techniques (Revised and Expanded Second Edition).

1. Utilizing the guard position in Brazilian JiuJitsu is a dynamic attack posture, whereby, the player is continually attempting to either offensively dominate the opponent who is within the guard, or where the guard-player is attempting to sweep his opponent who is in the guard for an even more dominate mounted position. Due to this dynamic environment of the guard, passing the guard is, likewise, a proactive proposition for the passer. Enter the necessity of: Passing the Guard!
   
   This second updated edition of Passing the Guard has addressed this situationally active position with the same, superior photographically enriched directness that Ed Beneville revolutionized when the Grappling Arts Publications LLC, released the first edition of this book in 2002.
   
   Utilizing multi-camera angles to capture both the technical nuance of the application and the full action sequence of the movement, the reader is provided a detailed analysis of the technique, akin to watching a frame-by-frame video revelation. Nothing is left to speculation with the way the photos unfold and unwrap the technique with the accompanying text. The pages are oversized, glossy and of the highest quality. The photographs themselves are clear and well-taken. With my aging eyes, this is a plus.
   
   With over one-hundred additional pages, encompassing over seventy different methods of passing the guard, ranging from the most fundamental to the more elaborately mastered passing methods, the manual diligently demonstrates and explains just what the guard is and what one must master in order to actively defeat this highly offensive position.
   
   Divided into eight color-coded chapters, the author stresses that this book is primarily for those who will engage in Brazilian JiuJitsu-type sports competition. The reader must then understand that in such competitions, the idea is for one adversary to defeat another adversary with a submission or choke. There are no strikes permitted, and actions are very strictly controlled. One who is the guard is constantly seeking to reposition in order to gain a submission while the one who is generating the guard is highly offensive, attempting to also engage a submission. There is very little NON-movement in such competitions, where movement, counter-movement, and recounter-movements are chronic in their applications on both sides.
   
   The first chapter reveals the importance of fully understanding the basics--both the basics of the various guard positions (this book states seven possibilities of the guard position) and the fundamental requirements needed for establishing a solid, yet active, balanced base within a guard, explicating proper body alignment, hand and head placement, gripping and breaking the closed guard.
   
   I am fanatical about mastering the basics, and this first chapter, alone, details specifics about both guard and passing the guard I have not found in other pictorially-rich manuals addressing the same topic. If we do not have a firm grasp of the fundamentals, then we cannot hope to master anything more advanced. This chapter thoroughly dissects the essentials for passing the guard into its most important common denominators, upon which the rest of the book's passing the guard problems are resolved.
   
   The second chapter specifies how to pass the guard from attacking the knees while both players are grounded. This is an elaborately composed chapter with numerous ways and means of passing the guard are included.
   
   Chapter three provides many safe and viable options for a player who is standing in one's guard posture, attempting to get around this guard to gain control over the player for submission.
   
   Defense and counters to offensive guard actions are covered in chapter four. This chapter, as all the chapters of this book, stresses the importance of maintaining a solid base and adjusting one's balance in order to assist off-setting an attack before the attack is completed. Several of the common attacks addressed, with the appropriate counters, include: the Triangle, the Kimura, the Guillotine, Cross Choke, Armbars, Omo Plata, keylock, and various sweeping actions, to name just a few.
   
   Chapter five covers the half-guard in detail along with the attacks one can implement while in the half-guard. I personally see the half guard as the half mount, so the importance of this chapter must not be taken for granted.
   
   Attacks from inside the guard are explicated in chapter six, which are quite diverse in their applications, but always stressing the need for a strong position before that submission is attempted. We will find numerous attacks to the articulations of one's leg (knee, ankle, foot) here, as well as the Sode Jime.
   
   I found chapter seven quite interesting in that in BJJ competition, as in Judo competition, a competitor will slip into a "turtle posture" so as not to be scored upon. This often occurs when a strong counter-fighter is getting the better of an opponent. Interestingly, this chapter demonstrates what a player can do to negate this protective posture--in effect--to crack the turtle's shell most abruptly and soundly. If one's opponent decides to slip into this default turtle posture, the information and illustrations found in this chapter will offer an aggressive player the how-to for dispatching the passive opponent.
   
   Drills--simple, basic, and challenging drills are located in chapter eight, and all good skills become superior skills through proper and persistent drilling. The material here helps one integrate basic skills through drilling paradigms in order to improve proficiency of one's specific skill set.
   
   At the end of all chapters are what I call an after action summary. What is covered in that chapter is amalgamated into a type of unique flow chart that makes sense of each independent action. This summary creates a unified chaining of the independent parts into a functional whole that extrapolates from the training experience into actual experience. This helps the player to shore up any technical loose ends and offers correct application for said player when he or she attempts movements within diverse situations.
   
   Passing the Guard: Volume One: Revised and Expanded (2009) stands alone in its presentation of the technical expertise, both in its visual instruction format and the wisdom found in the written text pertaining to this subject matter. This text, as well as the other two manuals: The Guard: Volume Two (also Revised and Expanded) and Strategic Guard: Volume Three are required reading and recommended text books for those students who frequent the Hikaze Learning Corner's, Diversified Combat Arts and Sciences Curriculum.
   
   
   Rev. Arthur Bodhi Chenevey, RM, DD
   Hikaze Learning Corner
   Wooster, Ohio



2. Now in a newly revised and expanded second edition, "Passing the Guard: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Details and Techniques" by martial arts experts Ed Beneville (a student of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu since 1996 and studied under 7th Degree Black Belt holder Joe Moreira for the past eight years) and Tim Cartmell (Shen Wu Academy of Martial Arts in Southern California) continues to be an ideal instructional introduction and reference with this new edition including more than sixty guard passing techniques, submissions and submission counters, as numerous drills. Of special note is how the showcased techniques are viewed from different angles with each key point fully illustrated, including photo sequences demonstrating such relevant factors as application, timing and strategy. Expertly organized and superbly presented, "Passing the Guard" is a fundamental and strongly recommended instruction guide and reference for students and practitioners of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.



3. No book is a substitute for solid instruction. But this book can make every time you step on the mat more effective. The biggest difference between this book and others is the abundance of pictures and the words are presented in such a way that you could adapt the move to slightly different situations. Another thing that makes this book so effective is acknowledging what your opponent is likely to do and how to combat that. As a white belt just seeing what an upper belt might do when faced with these passes is also helpful. Each section is relatively short and comes with a big flow chart type of map that summarizes what you can do from just about ever position you find yourself in and what page to refer back to for more detailed instruction on how to get out. As the title suggests the content is mostly about how to pass the guard and a secondary focus is given to submissions,but other positions are covered to a lesser degree in this book as well. If you want the same great format and instruction level but are looking for submissions I would suggest their second book "The Guard"



4. This book is sort of the basic 101 of jiu jitsu. It's a very easy book to go through. Lots of pictures and examples from different angles on how to do the move and then counter the move. I am a purple belt and I still use this book as reference once in a while. Had it for about 5 years.

5 comments about The X-Guard: For Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, No Gi Grappling, and Mixed Martial Arts.

1. Have only read the first half and flipped through the second, but Marcelo does a great job showing his X-guard. If you liked the Eddie Bravo books you will really like this.



2. This is a must have for anyone willing to think outside the box when it comes to BJJ. The introduction itself is worth its purchase. Marcelo defines what it means to sacrifice for any goal or passion we all have inside. The detailed pictures and explaination leave no room for error. Get this ASAP.



3. It's no secret that I really enjoy Victory Belt's books. I think they've nailed the format for describing individuals' games and their specialities. They are definitely the market leader in the arena of working with a fighter to extract the information they need and put it into print.
   
   It shouldn't surprise any readers, then, that I really liked the X-Guard by Marcelo Garcia.
   
   The book has all the hallmarks of Victory Belt's previous works. The large format and detailed colour photography don't disappoint and actually go one better with this edition.
   
   Not resting on their laurels, the guys at VB have introduced detailed inset photos where warranted. This is not a completely original concept by any means, but it is done as well here as with any other publisher.
   
   One of the problems I thought I might have with the book is that I wouldn't be able to identify with Marcelo and the X-Guard. This was an issue with Eddie Bravo's books on the Rubber Guard. I don't really use the Rubber Guard and am not built well for it. I pretty much have had the same problem with the X-Guard.
   
   That was until I read through this book. You see, my butterfly guard is a little...... agricultural. And that, it seems , is my problem with the X-Guard. Not my long legs and extraordinary height - my previous excuses.
   
   The book is split into two sections. The first is on the butterfly guard and the second on the X-Guard, itself. Both are split into three subsections each. The butterfly guard section is the most detailed treatment I've seen of the topic in a book. The three subsections are titled "Basic Positioning & Grip Defense", "Sweeps & Transitions" and "Submissions".
   
   Now, Marcelo Garcia can work his butterfly guard in a way I find amazing. It's something I'd never been able to do terribly well. I could work it well enough against white belts, but always had to let it go against people nearer my own skill level. This book, though, gives solutions to most of the problems I'd encountered in the past.
   
   I had the same problem with the X-Guard. There was just no way known I was ever going to get my giant legs in position. It shouldn't surprise you to find I was doing it wrong, though. The details shown for the X-Guard helped me a great deal, but I believe it's my better understanding of the butterfly guard that has ealed the deal for me.
   
   The X-Guard section is is split up in a similar way to the butterfly guard section with subsections called "Establishing the X-Guard", "Sweeps" and "Submissions".
   
   All-in-all, I'd say this is one of those rare $24 books that have made a heck of a lot more than $24 worth of effect on my game.
   
   It just keeps getting better, too. Erich Krauss and Glen Cordoza have been getting steadily better at writing, too. In the past, I've criticised their spelling and grammar in the introduction sections. Is it better in this book? The truth is, I don't know. I got so engrossed in Marcelo's story, I never bothered to check.
   
   That's got to be a big tick in the box.
   
   After a review like this, I like to put a little disclaimer to it......
   
   I am no Marcelo Garcia fanboy. I've not watched his DVDs all the way through and I've seen maybe three of his matches. I have also been known to give Victory Belt some very pedestrian reviews, but they do impress me with their ability to improve with each publication. This book is the second of their catalogue to go in the Best of the Best category, but probably not the last if the quality continues this way.



4. If you want to add new dimension to your game, get this book. Better yet get his DVD as well.



5. I have flipped thru this book several times and came up with a major problem.
   
   This book is most definitely not for MMA. My class have tried the X-Guard and found it to be worthless. The setup for it is too long and leaves you too exposed to punches and kicks to make it feasible.
   
   If the title were changed to "The X-Guard: For Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and No Gi Grappling." I think it would be an excellent book for such.
   
   Truly none can deny that Marcelo Garcia is one of the best in the world of jiu-jitsu. And after reading some of the book have found the submissions to be excellent. But the X-Guard itself is too open for counters in MMA especially from a striker.
   
   I recommend this book for jiu-jitsu competition only.

5 comments about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: The Closed Guard (Book of Knowledge).

1. A good insight into the basic but highly effective guard. Recommend it to anyone who understands the importance of getting the basics right.



2. I was hoping it would be more exhaustive / detailed, since it deals with one particular -- albeit very important -- aspect of BJJ. One example is in the posture-breaking section: how hard would it have been to show options when your opponent's hands are on your biceps, or else if he's postured up with both hands on your belt? Instead, all of only several posture-breaking techniques assume your opponent is using a staggered grip on your belt and lapel. It's a little thing, but BJJ is all little things.
   
   What this book had going for it, potentially, was to provide a really inclusive roadmap of the closed guard, and I think it's lazy in that regard. You can find all the stuff in this book plenty of other places.



3. This book not only is full of great techniques but the detail and the photos illistrating the techniques are great. I highly recommend this book.



4. This book will help you improve your close guard regardless of your rank and experience. I like the idea of just covering one aspect of the art of jiu-jitsu (Close Guard in this case) and really covering it from learning the basics to advance moves and putting combinations together. The book delivers on its promise.



5. Excellent book, very clear instruction on each technique. Offers some very usable new techniques or variations on those you may already know. I think this book is up there with Saulo Riberio's offering. Apparently BJ is bringing out several books on different aspects of the game. I'll be buying them all, a top addition to your own personal knowledge base if you buy this book.

5 comments about Mastering the Rubber Guard: Jiu Jitsu for Mixed Martial Arts Competition.

1. Eddie Bravo is the man. His Jiu Jitsu system is very innovative and this book clearly outlines it in a way that a a jiu jitsuist at the blue belt level or higher will be able to replicate on the mat.



2. The techniques and the logical flow of this book are nothing less than spectacular. The intro and the move names are nothing short of dreadful. But then, we bought this book for the moves, right? Focus on that, and this book is an easy 5-star book.
   
   Although, I must admit, it is VERY hard to ignore someone of Eddies prominence using this forum to advocate illegal behavior. What was he thinking? Oh yeah, he wasn't, he was stoned.



3. Yes, Eddie smokes pot and advocates it quite a bit in the beginning of the book. Just skip it. Yes, Eddie has names for his moves that are rather moronic. Ignore them.
   
   Neither of these points detract from the quality of the content. There are plenty of reviews discussing the legitimacy of the techniques. I'll skip that and simply say that, with proper training the Rubber Guard can be a very effective tool in a ground game (although those with the long limbs might have some trouble). It is no gimmick.
   
   What impressed me most about this book was the layout. It has one of the most intuitive layouts I've seen. It is certainly the best progression of the Victory Belt family (and that is saying something). While some books feel like a catalog of moves this one actually builds off of each previous move. The sections build off of the previous sections. And it does it in a way that is very natural. Some books you could just skip around learning a technique here or there. In this book you simply start at the beginning and drill your way through the whole thing. You will have learned the fundamentals of the system in a very clear, concise, and logical way. In some of the previous VB books on grappling I've found myself wondering why certain moves were put next to each other-perhaps just because they originate from the same position despite being appropriate in very different situations.
   
   In MtRG, everything flows because the system is about achieving a goal using a set pattern. You simply work your way through the pattern. If you find yourself blocked you try the next technique and move on to the next segment of the list. It's a very cool and very simple way to get a grasp on a ground game. It isn't just a collection of techniques but an overall strategy that allows one to efficiently fight off their back and win. While much of it may seem quite unorthodox to traditional grapplers it is absolutely worth the try. Chances are it will only make you better. For beginners, I'd recommend something more basic, perhaps one of the Gracie books (Theory and Technique is a good start) or Jiu Jitsu University by Saulo Ribeiro. Because Eddie is unorthodox and bases much of what he does off of existing Jiu Jitsu structure it's good to have a solid base before jumping in to Rubber Guard.



4. !! NEEDLESS / GRATUITOUS OFFENSIVE MATERIAL ADVISORY !! Talk about a lack of full disclosure... Be advised this DVD's segments are intro'd by some deranged, psychotic, shirtless, overweight, 60+ year old slob hood-cussing an F-word/G.D.-word blue streak with sticky spit on his lips(complete with close-ups[one disk starts off with him shouting at the viewer, "Hey F###-O!"]), interspersed with the featured fighter blowing cannabis smoke into the camera, & cuts of him with his shirtless & saggy-pants angry-rant wanna-be rap group. The DVD has a 20min diversions into some kind of MTv "Real World", a few music videos, some lengthy into-the-lens dope-induced brain-damaged wandering & pointless cosmic introspection, an episode of "Punked", & more of the F(oul)-mouthed fat slob, & in between all that utter garbage and trash, oh yea, you get some glimpses of ground game instruction.
   
   He might be the alpha & omega of the ground fight, but had I been aware of the tone/topic/theme of the surrounding material, I never would've bought it. I don't understand the modern fascination of attention-getting through offensiveness. It takes no talent, only a willingness.
   
   I have no respect for this guy, his athletic talents notwithstanding, which is probably the only thing keeping him from some crystal meth'-fueled armed robbery with a stolen car if not doing his fighting in the state penitentiary.



5. So everyone is correct about the first 25 pages or so of this book being mostly about Eddie's love of smoking. If you are into that, then great read it and get his viewpoint. If not, don't whine and complain, just skip it and hit the jiu jitsu section. Pictures are easy to see from multiple angles, and the captions clearly explain the action. This is a great book to use in addition to more standard jiu jitsu instruction. Eddie does give you a different way to execute attacks using his rubber guard, which in todays training means you might just know a little more than the next guy.

5 comments about Training for Warriors: The Ultimate Mixed Martial Arts Workout.

1. Great book for someone serious about MMA training. For older martial artists like myself who train for fun and fitness, a lot of new things to try to incorporate into your workouts for variety and a new perspective.
   
   I didn't give the book 5 stars for a couple of reasons. One - it is a pretty large book, and not easily carried to the gym and referenced on the spot. There are loads of full page IFL action photos that add a lot of size to the book, and interrupt the flow of the training info. Two - the text actually started to get comical to me with the constant references to "Warriors". A random sentence; "Today's warrior knows leg training has to take precedence in a warrior's strength work". In that same paragraph I counted the word warrior 7 times! And that's just one paragraph....The book just seemed geared to a much younger "extreme" type audience.
   
   The exercises and exercise photos are great. I made my own flash notes, stuck them in my training binder and ended up selling the book back to the bookstore. It was just too big to carry around. I can get pretty much the same info from the Hatmaker conditioning book, Ultimate Fitness Through Martial Arts by Sang H. Kim, Combat Conditioning by Matt Furey, and my Kettlebell book, all of which are much smaller and faster to navigate.
   
   Overall, a great workout book, just needs some major condensing.



2. I bought this book because I wanted a full spectrum approach to getting fit for MMA, BJJ and just improving general overall fitness. This book gave me everything in one. Rooney is a world class conditioning coach, who goes into specific detail, giving many different exercises that can be done. Everything including following a proper MMA diet, mental aspects, cardio and muscle training are included, make no joke - this is one serious book.
   
   Bottom Line is if you are looking to improve your game and health, then you need to but this book as it will take you MMA conditioning to another level.



3. Many of these drills require a partner, most of the stuff in this book is common in most gyms, not worth the money. I did like the section of weight plate exercises, but that's all I got out of this book. Maybe others would like it and find this product useful, however, I did not.



4. I am a professional Mixed Martial Artist, as well as a certified personal and group trainer. This book is a comprehensive collection of exercises, stretches and nutritional information. I use the content from this book in every class I teach as well as in my personal fighter training. The hurricane workouts are amazing, and my clients, teammates and I are continually challenged. The training exercised and workout programs in this book have taken our strength and conditioning to new levels. I'm psyched for Martin's second Training for Warriors book. The first one will be tough to beat!



5. I got this book four weeks ago and I've never been so excited about working out before then. I feel like i'm 18 again. The hurricaes make my day. After doing those i feel anything is possible. Its a great price for all the valuable information.

5 comments about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Theory and Technique (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu series).

1. This book has a nice little history about the BJJ first family and then goes thru the basics of their game. I find the longer I train the more I come back to this book to refresh on what we do on the mat.



2. This is one of the best books I've read on BJJ. The photos and descriptions make the techniques easy enough for any student of grappling to understand, whether beginner or advanced. The only annoying flaw is Kid Peligro's constant harping on how much more deadly BJJ is than the striking arts because of some flawed competitions in the past. I have been in the martial arts since 1970 and teach both Jujitsu and Karate (also boxed, and do BJJ, etc.) and I know some Okinawan Karate practitioners who could kill a BJJ champion in a fight. But since killing opponents isn't allowed in tournaments, this can never (and should never) be proven. Therefore it's time to get off the comparison kick and understand that grappling and striking have always gone hand in hand (yes grappling is present through all karate kata.) It's the tournament training in Karate, TKD, Kung Fu, etc. that lost in those matches because the competitors were not martial artists, but martial sportsmen. Great difference! Take away the "killing" aspects of an art designed to kill, and how can you then compare? If my hand can grab a gi for a choke, it can rip through a throat or gouge out an eye. And also, statistically, most fights end in 3-15 seconds, usually from sucker or kill punches, not in a grappling session. Yet, BJJ is an awesome art and not just a sport and yes, those in the striking arts should know some grappling, just as grapplers should know about striking (Bruce Lee didn't grapple much but he could fight.) Aside from this, the actual instruction of BJJ this books offers is excellent, although there might have been a bit more at the beginning about shrimping, raising hips, off balancing, etc. Just viewing Royler and Renzo Gracie doing the techniques is enough to recommend the purchase of this book. If not for the silly diatribes, it would easily rate 5 stars.



3. I am new to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This book is great because it shows BJJ for a beginner so it is not too technical. There are many pictures along with written explanations so you can see step by step how to do what is explained. It also shows you how to apply BJJ it to real world situations, much like what you will be facing against a bully (defense against a 2 handed choke, single handed wrist grab, two handed wrist grab, headlock, rear bear hug). That is just a small sampling of what this book has, it also has much much more and it has more technical techniques for more advanced skill levels. The techniques are easy to master with a little practice so you should have no problem performing them in a real world situation. I love this book and it is money well spent.



4. I ordered the book but I was not able to by it because the shipping price was wrong!



5. great book to have to review techniques I've covered in class.
   I received book from the vendor in a decent amount of time and in great shape.

5 comments about Jiu-Jitsu University.

1. Wonderfully well thought out. This is not the average book of submissons, instead this book focuses on movement and escapes which finally make a lock or choke possible. Worth the money to those who already have a handle on basic jiu jitsu.



2. Saulo has done a great job in creating a book that makes sense in how it is presented. Unlike other jiu-jitsu books that just put random moves together page after page, Saulo starts with survival positions- then moves to escapes and so on. If you are tired about reading of escapes, just flip ahead a bit in the book and read about different submission techniques. There are many different pictures depicting the moves as seen from various angles and he also goes into common mistakes that people make while in certain positions or when trying a particular technique. I have many jiu-jitsu books and this is by far my favorite, I highly recommend!



3. This book is a very comprehensive review of BJJ techniques, that I, as a beginner, have found immensely beneficial. I highly recommend it as a useful resource and quite possibly the best book on the subject.



4. I am new to this sport but this book is helping me a great deal. The pictures are excellent. The techniques that are taught are awesome. I would have liked a little more discussions about theory but what this books lacks in theory it more than makes up for in technique. Get this book and you will learn this sport like crazy.



5. Basically, what we have here is a book which is well presented, full of information and certainly useful....if you compete on the mat and/or are only interested in improving your ground game. What I mean is, as per the trend I have noticed since the UFC explosion, many "Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu" books and DVDs seem to mainly focus on the idea of merely supplementing ones current arsenal [generally focusing on the ground aspects...more often with emphasis on competition] vs. treating this form of Jiu-Jitsu for what it was truly meant to be: a complete, practical, "real world" self-defense system as originated by none other than Helio Gracie himself.
   
   It is interesting that Saulo Ribeiro is one of the "most talented" black belts to graduate from the Gracie Academy, yet this book seems to leave out much information critical to pure self-defense. Where are the techniques discussing "closing the gap," establishing control and then commencing with the take-down? Where are the techniques allowing one to establish standing control (via various submissions/locks)? Where are the techniques dealing with an armed opponent? Again, all of this is missing and only the ground game is detailed.
   
   I am of the mind that being able to put a larger, stronger and possibly very violent opponent (with or without a weapon) to the ground is of utmost importance. Without this, the ground game is useless. It is only when you have successfully nullified the initial attack, gained control and taken the "opponent" to the ground that you can truly begin the ground aspect of the art. Again, this very important process is not demonstrated within the pages of this particular book.
   
   After all is said and done, I can only give this book 4 stars. Yes, it is certainly a great reference for the ground aspects of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and definitely enlightening. However, the lack of transitioning from standing to ground and the lack of any real focus on self-defense techniques is disappointing. A book labeled "Jiu-Jitsu University," authored by such a respected individual, should have much broader application. Alas, it does not.

5 comments about Drill to Win: 12 Months to Better Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu.

1. After being involved in Tae Kwon Do, I felt that I needed something more challenging and have found this book meeting my needs for self improvement and a way to continue a better physical conditioning routine. Kudos to the authors of this brilliant book. Senior authletes can learn and improve with Jiu-Jitsu and especially this book.



2. I just received my copy of Drill to Win 3 days ago. I must say, Looking over this book I can see there has been a lot of time and thought into creating this book.
   As a beginner, I particularly enjoyed the layout of the book. I found it very clear and easy to understand. I personally enjoyed the still frame by frame illustrations, very easy to follow. The back story of Andre Galvao was a pretty cool added treat. I believe by reading this book and following the day to day drills the book provides (in depth), will not only aid in the physical aspect but, also the understanding and speed in which I learn this great art of BJJ.
   Great job to all that helped put this book together.



3. I HAVE NOT RECEIVED THIS YET???????!!!!!!! BEEN OVER A WEEK AFTER THE DATE GIVEN BY AMAZON THAT I WAS DUE TO RECEIVE IT



4. I can't give this book a 5 star review because I haven't put in the year of drilling to give it justice to the system.
   
   There are things I like about the book and things I love about it. The introduction to the book was definatly worth the read. Reading of the struggle to championships is always something great to put things in perspective. By the way read about Yoddecha Sityodtong to hear a truly remarkable story
   
   Then came the "diet of a champion" portion of the book. The diet is ok I wasn't too crazy about it to be honest but I think it's something that really just works well for him. To say diet of champion is a big statement and for me being studying in sports nutrition and fitness for a while I don't think it was that great. However I really appreciate more about how he spoke about being disciplined about eating the right things over the wrong.
   
   Now the meat and potato's. The Drills...
   
   The drills were all great some old some new. The thing to appreciate more then the drills themselves in the book are the outline to tells you train them in. the first part of the book helps you build fundamental balance and strength that will carry on as you continue to not only use the book's program but it will definatly help anyone's game. Especially people that may have traveled alot and haven't trained at one place for long(ME). I'd have to say I agree with other people who say it should have a DVD. For me personally I don't think it needs one but I'm speaking from already having BJJ experience. Some new guys may not be able to understand the movements as well.
   
   The most important thing about this book is that you have take in all in and read EVERYTHING. The mental approach and insight he gives you is something truly invaluable. Galvao is all about hard training but he made sure to encourage resting and having fun without the use of drugs or alcohol.
   
   All in all I think it's worth having.
   
   "The man who closes his mind to knowledge is a fool"- Renzo Gracie



5. After going through the book religiously for the past 2 weeks I must agree that the drills in the book will most definitely improve your game, not just the technique aspects of it but also your level of fitness. This book is really exhaustive, I am impress with the amount of content and areas of BJJ that is covered! A MUST have for all BJJ practitioners.
   
   On the flip side, I would also have to agree with some of the reviewers in that some of the drills shown may be confusing to someone who is new to BJJ. I guess because there's just so much info in this book a lot of the drills are not explained very clearly (I'm comparing it to some of the Gracie and Penn books). And although the pictures are coloured and clear they should of used some indicators like arrows or circles to outline minor but crucial areas to focus on; or even enlarge a part of an image. With that said some of the images may also be a little too small. Yeah, a DVD (or a website to see videos of the drills) would definitely help... especially to prevent any injuries by performing the techniques wrongly.
   
   Condition of the book: I was very upset when I got my copy. First of all the alignment of the book was way off! The last letter to the right of the first 20 or so pages have been partially sliced through. Not only that, the corners of the book looked like someone threw the book against the wall. I can't believed I paid full price!
   
   So to end this review, I would say that the layout of the book receives 4 of 5 stars (amount of content = 5 stars!); but because of how bad the condition of the book was (I'm very upset with the QC of printing/binding company who put this book together) I'd have to reduce the rating to 3 stars... sorry. Nevertheless, it is an awesome book!!
   
   Thank you Andre Galvao and Kevin Howell!