
Mini Ep. 31: Asymmetric Warfare
In this week's mini-episode we explain asymmetric warfare (or asymmetric advantages, if you want to be less dramatic). Asymmetric warfare means looking for unfair advantages: places where we are strong and our opponent is weak. In Jiu-Jitsu this often means seeking a superior position, but it can also mean playing to any other advantage we have, including natural attributes, favorite techniques, and match style. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https:/...
5 Dec 202410min

Ep. 313: Second-Level Coaching, feat. Fiona Geisinger
This week we're joined by Fiona Geisinger! Fiona is the founder of Athletic Arts and is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt training out of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. In this episode, Fiona explains second-level coaching, and how athletes of all levels benefit from a "second opinion" by working with other coaches either in-person or remotely. Follow Fiona on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fiona_athletic.arts Connect with Fiona for coaching: https://www.athleticarts.co/ Menta...
2 Dec 20241h 11min

Mini Ep. 30: Predictable Responses
In this week's mini-episode we explain predictable responses. This mental model teaches us that each technique has a series of common reactions, and knowing these reactions allows you to anticipate and "mind read" your opponent. In many ways, knowing a technique's predictable responses can be just as important as knowing the technique itself. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental M...
28 Nov 20248min

Ep. 312: Fulcrums, feat. Kelsey Carter
This week we're joined by Kelsey Carter! Kelsey is a newly minted black belt from Precision Jiu Jitsu Academy in Sacramento. In this episode, Kelsey discusses the physics and mechanics underlying Jiu-Jitsu techniques, emphasizing the importance of fulcrums, weight distribution, and angles during sweeps and submissions. Kelsey provides insights into adapting techniques for different body types and teaching empowering strategies, particularly for women in the sport. The episode also...
25 Nov 20241h 1min

Mini Ep. 29: Alignment Over Position
In this week's mini-episode we explain alignment over position. This is a refinement on the classic "position over submission" concept using Rob Biernacki's alignment framework. It teaches us that having good alignment (base, posture, and structure) is more important than having any particular position. Before you listen to this episode, check out: BJJMM Mini Ep. 1: Base https://podcast.bjjmentalmodels.com/243161/15022850-mini-ep-1-base BJJMM Mini Ep. 2: Posture https://podcas...
21 Nov 20249min

Ep. 311: Complexity and Intensity, feat. Chris Paines
This week we're joined again by Chris "The Villain" Paines! In this episode, Chris explains the two "dials" that coaches and students can use to modulate their training: complexity and intensity. Follow Chris on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisvillainbjj Subscribe to Chris' YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChrisPainesBJJ Buy Chris' instructionals on BJJ Fanatics: https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/instructional-videos/fighter_chris-paines Check out InTheory BJJ ...
18 Nov 20241h 12min

Mini Ep. 28: Position Over Submission
In this week's mini-episode we explain one of the most commonly discussed mental models in Jiu-Jitsu: position over submission. This concept teaches us that it's often better to maintain position than risk losing it by hunting for submissions. This episode explains the reasoning behind "position over submission," as well as the exceptions. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental Mode...
14 Nov 20248min

Ep. 310: Integrating Theory and Practice, feat. Aldo Vergel de Dios
This week we're joined by Aldo Vergel de Dios! Aldo is the black belt head coach at Motion Jiu-Jitsu in Metro Manila, Philippines. In this episode, Aldo discusses a problem relevant to students and coaches alike: how to integrate conceptual Jiu-Jitsu thinking with on-the-ground practice. Follow Aldo on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aldojitsu Train with Aldo at Motion Jiu-Jitsu: https://www.motionjiujitsu.com/ Resources discussed in this episode: BJJMM Ep. 162: The Lang...
11 Nov 20241h 5min




















