Book Description

This training guide is dedicated to students of Jiu-Jitsu worldwide. It is the only up-to-date and official training manual of the World Jiu-Jitsu Federation, and it covers blue belt to brown. With over three hundred photographs, this manual is an invaluable source of reference for more advanced students and for coaches.

Book Description

Customer Reviews (6)

History Alive
Actually this is a historical tome of some note.Interesting but very hard to learn from.The point of this book is to show training as it was when Judo was first developed.Every JuJutsuist and Judoka should have this in his/her library.
Worth the price and the time.

The roots of modern Jujutsu
Many people know Kano created Judo, but few know of his contribution
to Jujutsu.

The roots of modern Jujutsu began at the end of the 19th Century
when Kano Jigoro was given the task of taking the old, separate schools
of Jujutsu, taking the best of what was, and creating a hand=to-hand
combat school befitting the new, modernised Japan. This new art,
Kano Jujutsu was adopted rapidly by schools and military, as well as
progressing overseas, gaining practitioners and advocates such as Theodore
Roosevelt. Kano Jujutsu still survives in martial arts schools, albeit in
very few, and as hand-to-hand combat in many modern militaries.

The Complete Kano Jujutsu is a reprint of the classic text, demonstrating
many techniques, as well as an introduction to Kuatsu (healing and first
aid techniques).

This is not a book for beginners, as requires knowledge of techniques,
but serves well to augment training. A must have for people want to
delve deeper into martial arts.

Interesting, but not judo
This book has nothing to do with Jigoro Kano's Kodokan judo.By the time this book was published most of Kano's Judo as it is now known was all ready in existence including the Nage no Kata, Ju no Kata, Kime no Kata, and most of the Gokyo no Waza.The book Judo Kyohon published only 2 years later in Japan in 1908 detailed the Gokyo no Waza and Nage no Kata in their entirety and every technique therein is recognizable in name and form when compared to modern judo.Irving Hancock was a shameless huckster who had some instruction in an older form of jiu-jitsu completely unrelated to Kano's Kodokan Judo.He detailed this form in an earlier book entitled Jiu-Jitsu Combat Tricks published in 1904.He falsely labeled this later book The Complete Kano Jiu-Jitsu as a marketing ploy to try and trick buyer's into thinking they were getting something of Kano's judo, which by that date had gained total dominance in Japan.Very few of his techniques bare any resemblance to Kano's Judo as it was practiced then or now.This book is an interesting look at old style jiu-jitsu and worth buying, but Hancock's claim that it ever had anything to do with Kano's school is totally false.

Contains Judo's "Leg Locks"!
The manual: 'THE COMPLETE KANO JIU-JITSU [Judo]' (c. 1906, 1961) by Harry Irving Hancock and Katsukuma Higashi, may surprise those who have not seen photographs of combat Judo at its inception.Filled with 1906 photographs of Judo "tricks", THE COMPLETE KANO JIU-JITSU displayed a Judo which would not be recognized in today's dojo.

This style of 1906 combat Judo portrayed in THE COMPLETE KANO JIU-JITSU was practiced with the standard white Uwa-gi Judo top but with black leggings with leather knee-pads, and while wearing black shoes.The techniques or "tricks", as the author described them, resembled free-style wrestling with take downs and few throws.

Also, clearly recognizable are the strangle holds and pinning techniques of Tenshin Shinyo Ryu (School of the Natural Way) Jiu-Jitsu and the throwing techniques of Kito Ryu (To Rise and Fall) Jiu-Jitsu; the two styles of Jiu-Jitsu from which the genius Dr. Jigoro Kano developed his Judo.But some have noted that these techniques may be more representative of Tsutsumi Hozan Ryu jiu-jitsu, as practiced by Katsukuma Higashi.

The book THE COMPLETE KANO JIU-JITSU contained the 1906 photographs of two Judo leg-locks (photos No.424 & No.425), and an early Judo leg throw (No. 419), a kick to the groin from standing (No. 416) and from the ground (No. 417).

Overall, THE COMPLETE KANO JIU-JITSU is a superb reference source for the hopologist who wishes to delve into the martial arts past and on Judo history. This work should be read in conjunction with KODOKAN JUDO by Dr. Jigoro Kano, to provide an excellent insight into Judo's development!

One of the best from a historical viewpoint
This book holds a very special place in the history of martial arts education and is certainly one of the most entertaining.I would love to know co-author Hancock's story, especially the circumstances of his training in Japan.Beyond the historical value of this text though lies its usefulness; the techniques shown are the same as those practiced today, and the reader will undoubtedly find some that are not taught.However, one should not get carried away.If you are looking for a book that shows you techniques, there are any number of them on the market that are better than this one.However, if you want a glimpse into the Real Thing, i.e., jiu jitsu as it was practiced in the Olde Days, then this book stands pretty much alone.As a Ketsugo and Brazilian jiu jitsu practitioner, all I can say is...this book is fascinating. ... Read more

Book Description
The moves that Carlson Gracie has taught to such stars as Vitor Belfort, Amauri Bitteti, Murilo Bustamante, Wallid Ismael, Mario Sperry, Kevin Costner, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Mickey Rourke are revealed in this book on the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu style of martial arts. One hundred and one positions that provide a complete game of guards, sweeps, and submissions are detailed. Students will find more aggressive techniques that expand their game in all directions, and advanced practitioners will learn the tips and secrets that make the difference between competence and greatness. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Undisputed Master Discloses the "Secrets"
If, by secrets, we mean quality, high percentage techniques for BJJ, submission wrestling and MMA, then this is true. As well as being an elder statesman of the legendary Gracie family and well recognised master of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Carlson is also the coach of many top BJJ, submission wrestling and MMA champions.

Names like 'Ze' Mario Sperry, Murillo Bustamonte and Rodrigo Medeiros are just a few of Carlson's fantastic stable of students. In this book, we see why they're so successful.

The book is in three parts and starts with Carlson demonstrating techniques for sport Jiu Jitsu. This section covers takedowns, guard work, sweeps and reversals, chokes and cranks, and arm bars and ankle locks.

Carlson demonstrates (or has his students demonstrate) simple and effective techniques. Often, you'll see something done slightly differently to what you're used to. IT's a little light on description. That's a bit of a pain, but it's also part of the reason this is for "Experts Only".

I especially liked the section on the "Jello Guard". Some open guard techniques you've seen before at the big competitions, but performed by the guy who developed them and refined them, giving you details on how to make them work.

The submission wrestling section covers guard work, escapes and defences, chokes and cranks, and arm bars and wrist locks. This section is mostly demonstrated by Carlson's students, but Carlson demonstrates a number of techniques.

Same comments as the previous section. Great, simple, effective techniques. Light on description, but those with some exerience will be able to pick up plenty of detail. Perhaps you'll even pick up a great technique you haven't seen before to add to your arsenal.

The MMA section is my favourite. It covers the clinch, takedown defence, guard work and side control/knee on stomach. The first two are subjects you don't usually see in Jiu Jitsu manuals. The other two parts are covered in a way I've only seen covered by Mario Sperry in his Vale Tudo series.

The standing techniques incorporate strikes that are simple enough for any grappler to use. The takedown defences and clinch techniques are simple and very high percentage.

As I said earlier, this section reminds me of Mario Sperry's Vale Tudo Series. The techniques are simpler and different, but you can see where Ze Mario developed his philosophy.

This section includes THE ABSOLUTE BEST coverage of guard use in MMA/NHB I have seen in a book.

All in all, the photography is good, the techniques are great. The book doesn't teach you how to string techniques together very well, though. They're more a set of ideas to add to your game. The book loses a star because I thought it needed more detailed descriptions in a lot of areas.

Don't let that deter you, though. Especially if you're a somewhat experienced grappler who wants to add to his or her gam or to seehow to implement your existing game into MMA/NHB.

Don't let the title scare you: any level BJJ practioner can benefit from this text.
An excellent book showing the Carlson Gracie method of Brasilian jiu-Jitsu.He does have a unique style all his own, and when mixed with the traditional techniques show in the Renzo/Royler book, you have a great set of books in which to refer to for your class.

This book has helped me immensely, especially the nogi section.I personally prefer and compete mainly in gi divisions, but I do train regularly in nogi once a week.That is where I have really noticed this book helping my game, but it has helped my gi game as well.

Great book that should be found on any Brasilian Jiu-Jitsu practioner's bookself.

Develop A complete game
Just Got this great book, and it is amazing. It covers several aspects of grappling - GI, No Gi, MMA. I would recommend that you purchase this book, only if you have experience as a grappler......although it can be of some use for non experienced grapplers as well.

Solid techniques, indeed from the master
It's hard to argue that Carlson Gracie is a master - he's produced more champions in jiu jitsu and mixed martial arts then the next three or four top coaches combined.This is his first English language instruction manual, where you can see the master and his students executing numerous techniques.Sport jiu jitsu (with Gi), submission wrestling (No Gi) and self defense are all covered.While the material is not an encyclopedia of all the techniques out there, it is well organized and easy to follow for most any audience - even the non-experts.

Great addition for any Jiu Jitsu or Judo Collection
The book is laid out very well and a great resource for any ground fighters judo or jiu jitsu.

The Jello guard is also known and the Dela Riva guard and is a very effective guard and tournament tested. Ricardo De La Riva is one of the greatest jiu Jitsukas of all time mostly due to his revolutionary guard game.

Overall I am impressed with the techniques, and only had one small concern as some of the moves aren't as detailed in script.


... Read more

Book Description
Learn It Here. Learn It Right. Over the last decade, the growing popularity of mixed martial arts competitions has brought international attention to the powerful and practical art of Brazilian Jiu-jitsu. BJJ fighters have taken title after title in championship after championship, and now, with Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Basics, you can learn the techniques that have made BJJ the dominant style in the world of mixed martial arts.

Author and acclaimed instructor Gene Simco teaches his students that a solid mastery of the fundamentals is essential in creating a foundation upon which the more advanced techniques can be built—and that's where this book comes in. With photos and step-by-step instructions, Simco shows you all the moves you'll need to master to take your training to the next level, including:

Primary positions: the Guard, the Mount, the Back Mount, side control, standing techniques, and Passing the Guard

Submissions: Armbars, Triangle Choke, Collar Choke, Kimura Lock, Guillotine, Mata Leo, and Omoplata

Defenses against punches, kicks, take-downs, and more!

Escapes from chokes, grabs, bear hugs, locks, and clinches

Plus warm-up exercises, tips on choosing a school, and Dojo etiquette Whether you're a novice interested in self-defense or a more experienced martial artist looking to raise your ranking, compete in mixed martial arts events, or supplement your current martial art with BJJ techniques, Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Basics is the book to take when you're taking it to the mat.

The Experts Agree ...

"Gene Simco is one of the most Technical Jiu-jitsu instructors on the East Coast. His students are a testement to that." - Brian Cimmins, Grapplers Quest Tournament Director

"I've been training bjj for 35 years and Gene's book is one of the best books in the market. I strongly advise everybody that practise jiu jitsu to buy it."

-- Romero "Jacare´" Cavalcanti (founder of Alliance Jiu-jitsu and one of 5 Rolls Gracie Black Belts)

"I am an old man and a martial arts grandmaster and I thought I knew a lot.I am physically disabled but I practice that which I can practice and even someone with physical infirmities like me can easily learn these straight forward common sense techniques that I somehow missed along the learning trail.But little did I realize how little I really knew until I read the 162 page book BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU BASICS.This is without a doubt the Cadillac, the Rembrandt, the Leonardo De Vinci, the Bruce Lee of jiu jitsu books at the lower belt level." Professor Kenneth L. Haugland

Grandmaster, Soke, Ph.d., 10th Dan

American Combat Judo and Jujitsu Association ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

Huh?
I really was interested in this book b/c it comes with a DVD.I don't understand moves very well just looking at pictures.Unfortunately, a lot of the moves in the book are not on the DVD included.He shows how to do a takedown from the clinch, and a few other things but I can't remember.

Also be aware that there is a lot of controversy regarding the legitimacy of this guy, check any MMA or BJJ forum.Nothing personal against the guy, but I haven't read anything positive about him - but I could be wrong so glean from that what you will.You would probably be better off buying Cesar Gracie's set.It costs more but it's worth it.

good, but basic
The book is ok, but there's nothing there that you wouldn't learn in the first couple months of training.So, if your just starting out it's useful.

Very Poor
I really don't understand how this book can get 5 stars.
The actual content isn't too bad but what really brings it down is the layout and the photos. Most of the photos are tiny and combined with the poor quality paper they seem faded making it hard to distinguish what is going on.
I am waiting on a few other BJJ books I have purchased based on 5 star reviews.I'm now a little bit woried that they will only be as good as this book which I think is very poor.
The DVD however isn't too bad. Some good stuff there.
I was going to give 2 stars due to the DVD but this is a book review so
stuff it just 1 star.

Best book for Students
This book is accurate, intelligent and well thought out.Unlike others, when I buy a DVD player, I don't expect it to cook my breakfast, so when I bought this BASICS books, I was very happy that it contained the essential basic techniques of brazilian jiu-jitsu and not a bunch of flashy moves that will only work on a grappling dummy. I actually purchased this book in an earlier version released by the author a couple of years ago and still use it as a reference now. I did not receive this copy with the DVD included, but purchased the set at Gene Simco's site and am even more pleased with the videos.

No Dust on my Copy.
I personally found this book to be quite helpful.The photos are clear and each person is wearing different colored uniforms, unlike some of the other books mentioned, so the details present themselves very clearly. The descriptions are written in clear, plain English. Any normal human being who is honest will admit that the practice of BJJ is intimidating, so a bit of basic knowledge in book form is a useful tool for any serious student. Anyone doing martial arts for years will tell you that the Basics are all you really need anyway, so yes, I think I really need this book. I also liked the addition ofthe DVD, very few books on the market have this.I suppose there are a lot of white to blue belt experts out there who think they know everything. If you are too smart to learn any more, than this book isn't for you.

The bottom line is, if you are advanced, what do you need a book for anyway? A Basics book is a much needed tool for any beginner. ... Read more

Book Description
Royce Gracie presents an array of fighting strategies specifically designedto succeed under the rules of mixed martial arts competition. Traditional Brazilian jiu-jitsu techniques are combined with new grappling and striking maneuvers to offer practitioners an incredible array of attack options. Royce Gracie's personal tips on training, competing, and sustaining mental stamina, which helped him achieve an unprecedented string of victories at the Ultimate Fighting Championships, are also included. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

No Complaints
Just like I said about UFT vol.2,this is a sport bjj book for begginners.About one in every four moves shown in this book can be translated to mma competition.
The moves inside are divided up as follows;
1)Takedowns-22 moves
2)Guard Passes and The Turtle Position-21 moves
3)Side Control-17 moves
4)Mount-17 moves.
5)Rear Mount-8 moves.
Once again,Royce links the moves together and this is an excellent book.

Great reference, with reservations.
This is a great reference book on BJJ techniques. However, I do agree with other readers that this book really does not cover UFC technicalities (i.e. strikes). Would definitely recommend for someone studying ground techniques but not for NHB/UFC training.

Great Book!
Any fan of Jiu-Jitsu will love this book!My husband read it constantly.Great illustrations and step-by-step directions on how to do each move.A++

Ultimate Fighting Techniques
Royce Gracie is at his simplistic best,Teaching moves that are simple and will be remembered in the ring. Royce Gracie is the only man in octagon history to defeat 3 oppenents in one night 3times to win the first 3 out of 4 UFC Championships.

Plenty of pictures but very few submissions
This book will teach you a lot of very basic drills and ways to move from an offensive position to a stronger offensive position and in many cases teaches you how to defend those same advances.The book has very little about armbars, leg locks and figure 4 triangle leg chokes (although it does have a really cool one to use if you're already mounted past your opponents guard).You'll become efficient at understanding terms like guard, half guard, mount, back, side control and how to move from one position to a stronger using proven techniques.I give the book 5 stars because the techniques presented are well taught using pictures and easy to understand language.This book focuses mainly on techniques used to attack your opponent, today I'm ordering the second book of the series on ground game defense, after all, there's nobody better at defending a ground position than Royce. ... Read more

Product Description
Marcelo Garcia, winner of five Brazilian jiu-jitsu world championships and a man many feel is the best pound-for-pound submission grappler of all time, unveils the secrets behind the most effective guard system in existence-the X-Guard. Unlike most jiu-jitsu instructional books, Garcia leaves no stone unturned. Not only does he show you how to sweep your opponent using the X-Guard from nearly every control position, he shows you how to do it both with a gi and without. Covering everything from grips to timing, this book will be a savior to anyone wishing to compete in jiu-jitsu tournaments, no-gi grappling competition or mixed martial arts. ... Read more

Book Description
In Mastering the Rubber Guard, Eddie Bravo, the only American to submit a member of the legendary Gracie family in jiu-jitsu competition, reveals the techniques and strategy of the Rubber Guard, a revolutionary system of grappling designed specifically for the street and mixed martial arts competition.
Through descriptive narrative and nearly a thousand color photographs, Bravo teaches dozens of unique moves and submissions. Widely regarded as not only the most offensive,
but also the most defensive, guard game in existence, the Rubber Guard will change the way you view and play jiu-jitsu.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (35)

10th Planet JJ rocks
This is the first of two books. I actually broke down and bought this book, after buying his second book "Mastering the Twister" and seeing how good the book is and how it revolutionized my game.

Eddie's bottom game, with the rubber guard is sick. You need to have some flexibility to pull off a lot of these moves. If you don't, follow his stretches and the DO work! Trust me! I could never get my foot anywhere close to my head, but its now nearly behind my head, thanks to doing Eddie's stretches everyday.
You need to have basic jits to understand a lot of these moves and transitions. But, you will love it. There is so muchinformation in here that you brain will hurt from trying to absorb it!
Excellent book and system!

Super
I can't get enough of this book.I have learned so much from following it's flow charts and it has really upped my guard game.I highly recommend it.I have enjoyed this book so much I'm going to drop the 120.00 on the rubber guard DVD by Eddie Bravo.

Great Book!
I've been practicing jiu jitsu for a year. We have worked a lot on Oomoplatas and Gogoplatas, that's where I learned about the rubber guard. There is also a large focus on MMA at my dojo, so I picked this book up and started reading it. A couple pages in I knew this was a great book, and it really is. One of the first series of techniques you learn is the Lockdown, Whip up and the subsequent sweeps from Half Guard. Let me tell you, I train with 2 Colorado amateur MMA title holders and I have got them with these moves every time. I am very impressed with the style and the thought that was put into this book, truly genius. I wouldn't say this book is the end all be all, but it is a great addition to anyone's game. I continually roll with people of all different skills, sizes and abilities and I utilize the techniques in this book very often. Another book I've checked out is BJ Penn - Mixed Martial Arts: The Book of Knowledge, again another solid addition to anyone's game.

Eddie+BJJ=Good,Eddie+Pot=Big Time Nut Bucket!
I bought this book to see new moves to help my game. Eddie feels he must ramble about the most unnervingly boring things in his life. He says Pot only enhances what you already are. Well, Eddie was obviously a self absorbed wanna be rock star, oh sorry, he still is a wanna be rock star. His moves are great and yet there is no way to remember the path he takes which is so contrived with names that you can't remember it will never take hold in the MMA world. But in Eddie's mind his is the one and only system. And he thinks this...Why?...because he beat Royler Gracie once.
And Joe Rogan's rant about the evil conspiracy that is keeping pot out of the mainstream. His pot experience makes him believe he is more relevant in this world than he really is. Another self absorbed, blame my horrible parents for my rotten life, mediocre actor trying to matter.
If Eddie believes his is the best system then make a great book, easy to understand and teach, and do what the Gracie's did...start a revolution.

Amazing
This is an amazing book.The text is veryclear and understanding, the pictures are awesome and really helpful, and this dude is freaking funny.You will learn a lot from this book.I have had it for a month now and have added so much to my transition game. ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (45)

Finally!
The whole purpose of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in the UFC was to make people feel safe by knowing the martial art they practice makes them feel safe.
The contents inside this book are as follows:
1)Defenses against street strikers-14 moves.
2)Defenses against street grapplers-19 moves.
3)Defenses against grabs-17 moves.
4)Defenses against chokes-16 moves.
5)Defenses against headlocks-15 moves.
6)Defenses against weapons-19 moves.
Overall this book could've been better.It was published early in the invisible cities press series,therefore it wasn't as well organized as today's books.The book also lacked common street attacks like groin kicks,biting,getting shoved,headbutted,multiple opponents,how to avoid a fight,and why fights happen,etc.I'm just glad they put this book out though-it's what Grandmaster Helio Gracie wants to see taught first.

Some techs will save you. Others will kill you.
While I respect the Gracie family and its contributions to martial arts, I feel like the self-defense element that originally existed in the BJJ of Helio and Carlson's generation has been chipped away by its posterity. As the "sport" of BJJ gains popularity, the "martial" aspect of BJJ - and its useful techniques - are disappearing.

Nowhere is this trend more evident than in this book. My reaction to the techniques in this book ranged from, "Wow, I never considered that one before," to, "Holy $@!%, that will get you killed!" I have black belts in TKD and aikido, and I have been training in Muay Thai, catch and sambo for a few years now. My brother is ranked in Penjak Silat, and he, like me, agrees that the techniques, especially the knife defenses, will leave you dead. For example, in several of the knife techniques, Royce begins by using a karate- or TKD-style block to stop the knife attack. Someone skilled with a knife, or even some half-sober punk, will be able to slash through your forearm. If you don't believe me, watch the demonstrations in which someone slashes at a side of meat. The gashes are too deep for even the best fighter to "tough out." In aikido and other aiki arts, you're taught to capture the limb and maintain control of the weapon until you can remove it or until you've incapacitated your attacker. You'd have better luck with a simple kote-gaeshi wrist turn against a knife than with any of these techniques.

The grappling, however, was excellent and representative of what we've come to expect from the Gracies. If you skip the knife and gun defenses, you'll have a few slick moves for the street that resemble BJJ before the "sport" folks watered it down. That said, you can save yourself $30 and pick up these techniques by spending a few minutes in the bookstore.

With any hope, BJJ practitioners will one day go back to the martial source and get back to real fighting.

Just my two,

Concise Text and Excellent Step- by- Step Photos make it easy to follow
Simple, to-the-point language and superb photography enable the reader to learn, remember and absorb. Includes basic moves, and also some very advanced moves. Use your judgement, use what you understand (only if necessary, of course!).Re-read what you don't understand...until you get it.This book opens your mind.You start to be able to predict the next step; what you could do next to defend yourself. Some of the images remain engraved in your mind- and then can be recalled and applied, if need be. This book enhances one's existing self-defense arsenal.You realize you can combine some steps and moves... A little of this, a little of that...It all helps, and THAT'S THE GOAL!

Good for th practitioner, difficult for a normal person.
This is a good book from one of the legends of the UFC, Royce Gracie and shows some great techniques for crisis situations and general technique. Most of them time, even as a practitioner of jiu jitsu, if an attacker has a weapon, I'm giving that person my wallet and going on my merry way. That's the best advice for self defense. If you get attacked, then that's another story. Here you can learn how to defend yourself in a simple manner, which is what is usually necessary. A good book for the collection.

Good, But disorganized
The techniques in this book are decent, great to add to your arsenal, but I wouldn't necessarly use them as a first choice.However, I would it is great knowledge in case the situation calls for you to use some of these techniques.
The photography and explanination is very good.Although it is disorderized, with knife attacks seemingly randomly put in various sections of the book.
I would recommend this book if you are already have clinch fighting or grappling intensive martial arts experiance. ... Read more

Book Description
The first book of its kind on the fastest growing marital art in the world, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. The book is unique in its concentration on an thorough treatment of one of the most important aspects of groundfighting, passing the guard. Visually oriented, the volume is teeming with photos and illustrations. Must be seen to be appreciated. SPO027000 ... Read more

Customer Reviews (25)

Great Visual Guide
I really like this book.It's hundreds of color pics. break down each move 1/2 step by 1/2 step and from multiple angles.You don't even need to know how to read.Just follow the pics & arrows highlighting the important grips and positioning.I use volume 2 ("the guard") a little more, but both are really great.

You will pass the guard!!!
This is a great book. Sequence of pictures are taken from two different angles to capture all the details.Tim Cartmell does a great job describing each step of the technique in simple words.
It covers most of the situations encounter when passing the guard. Will definitely boost you BJJ game.

The Best Book on Guard Passing
I'm a blue belt, and this book can definitely improve your top game a lot. No other book cover the subject with so much depth. Sometimes the pictures aren't as crystal clear as Kid Peligro's ones, and you have to get used to the unusual layout. Aside from that the book is awesome and I think intermediate bjj practitioners will get the most out of it.

Great reference and instructions!
I'll start off by mentioning the only negative I can think of or noticed:

There are quite a few typos and grammatical errors in the techniquedescriptions/instructions.However, they only cause a minor distraction, and not enough to warrant giving this book anything less than 5 stars.The reason for this is because all you have to do is look at the accompanying picture and the problem is solved.For example, the instructions will say, "Grab with the right hand or swing to the right" and then you look at the picture and the guy is grabbing with his left hand and swinging to the left.I'm assuming those who buy this book already practice BJJ and are only purchasing the book for reference, so it should be easy to "understand" what the typos meant to say.This, however, leads to the best part of the book.

Everything else about the book is great.The only negative I mentioned above may actually go unnoticed by some.The reason for this is that the pictures are awesome.One may be able to learn a technique just by looking at the pictures.They're that good.The flow and clarity of the pictures makes the detailed instructions seem as an optional supplement.

Another thing that this book does well is it's order.The book starts from the ground up, literally: breaking the guard on your knees, passing the guard on your knees, standing up, breaking the guard standing up, etc, etc...More importantly, whenever the opportunity is given, the authors split the techniques into alternative "finishes" depending on whether or not the opponent reacts.

If you're looking for a well written book with plenty of details for BJJ as a reference, I cannot recommend this more.It's really great to look through and see a technique and think to yourself (or scream out loud), "That's what I should have done in that last fight/roll/etc!"

I will be buying volume 2 for sure.

Great Study on an Important Facet of Groundfighting
Too many books try to cover too much in their text. This often results in poor details, a small snapshot of someone's game, or unconnected techniques that don't integrate well. It is a fantastic idea to spend an entire volume on one aspect of the game.

I'd read Cartmell's good work in "Effortless Combat Throws" and liked it a lot. I'd never heard of Beneville, though, as per most of the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu community.

However, the most important qualification is whther your information is accurate and effective. This book is exactly that.

The book opens up with imporatant details on posture and position. What it is, why you need to get there and - of course - how. This is golden information to the beginner and early intermediate, but more advanced practitioners will even find some useful info here.

Then, onto the guard passes. The passes shown are the same ones you're taught in every class. The details, though, are intricate and accurate. There are a number of options for each pass and photos aplenty, along with concise, accurate text descriptions.

The book covers more than passing and is THE text for the whole game from inside the guard. It covers posture and position, passes from the knees, passes from standing, submission attacks from inside the guard, defenses and counters to attacks and even a great section on a ttacking the turtle position.

More still, the book ends with some great drills that will help you develop the skills described in the book.

This book pioneered the contrasting coloured uniforms on the models and the blue vs white is still a great idea. The photography is great and has views from multiple angles. As said earlier, the text is concise, clear and descriptive.

It's clear that the authors know their subject and have planned this book well. Kudos to them. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

choke review
Fair to good pictorial presentation.However, the vast majority of chokes in this text are actually judo choking techniques!Therefore, these are NOT brazilian choking techniques of origin. ... Read more

Product Description
The Twister is a neck-jarring, spine-torturing submission hold refined and mastered by Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu superstar Eddie Bravo.

Early in his jiu-jitsu career, Eddie Bravo dominated dozens of jiu-jitsu competitions with this unorthodox move. When the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation banned his trademark move, he proved the effectiveness of his entire grappling style by defeating the legendary Royler Gracie without The Twister .

In Mastering the Twister: Jiu-Jitsu for Mixed Martial Arts Competition, Bravo uses over 1,200 color photos and descriptive narrative to illustrate snaring an opponent in the infamous Twister from virtually every control position. Also revealed is the entire Twister Side Control game, dozens of submissions from the mount, numerous routes to take your opponent s back, highly effective ways to pass your opponent s guard, and the secrets of The Truck Bravo's patented control position. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

The 10th Planet System Rocks
Eddie's system is freaking awesome!I am an accomplished grappler and have always been interested in new techniques, etc. I was already familiar with the twister and a couple of the setups, but Eddie's book blew me away. My top game is so sick right now, that not one of my fellow students, nor my coach, can touch me!
If you have some grappling experience, this book will revolutionize your top game.
If you are new, this will help you, but you might get lost in some of the more complex transitions.
Either way, Eddie Bravo and his system kick butt!

matering the twister
This is one of the best jiu jitsu books ever it gives in great detail insight to Eddie Bravo's game.

Mastering the Twister Rulz!
I got this book because I really liked how Mastering the Rubber guard was set up and hoped that Mastering the Twister would be just as useful and enjoyable. I can honestly say that it was and that I was very pleased with the purchase. What I liked about both products was that they both teach a System of techniques that all link together and include "go to" moves for when things don't go according to plan. I also liked the personal stories that Mr. Bravo included; I felt that the combination of these two elements took these books well beyond what most martial arts books provide. The value of these books is that they are useful as reference, good for new ideas as they contain an unorthodox BJJ game, and they are highly entertaining. Definitely well worth the purchase. Keep up the good work!

Excellent follow up to "Mastering the Rubber Guard"
Just like his book on the Rubber Guard, Eddie Bravo's 'Mastering the Twister' is an innovative, effective and insightful system of Brazilian Jiu-jitsu without the gi, that both intermediate and longtime practitioners will benefit in many ways from.

Like 'Mastering the Rubber Guard', this isn't just an encyclopedia of moves and positions, but a complete gameplan and system.There is a flow-chart that details each position as it transitions to the next, and Eddie goes into excellent detail on the intricacies of each technique. Like other Victory Belt published books, this is as good an instructional you will get short of a DVD video release. Highly recommended.

This is advanced BJJ however, so beginners will be adviced not to just jump in without a firm grasp of the basics. It should also be noted that Mastering the Twister is a direct "sequel" if you will to Mastering the Rubber Guard, so it will be good to start with that book first, though not totally necessary. What MTRG did for the bottom game, MTTwister does for the top game.

highly recommended
Anyone interested in no gi grappling should buy this book. This book is very clear and well organized. There are some different and new ideas in this book that should expand your game. This book as well as EB first book Mastering the Rubber Guard are two of the best bjj books you can buy. ... Read more

Book Description
This essential guide provides new practitioners with a thorough grounding in the ancient art of jiu jitsu and advanced students of any martial art with an effective method for integrating jiu jitsu techniques into an existing practice. The book begins with the origins of jiu jitsu in 16th-century Japan, explaining the subsequent rise of judo and Brazilian jiu jitsu to give a complete introduction to the history of the art. Next, training requirements, procedures, and equipment are outlined, preparing the reader for training and combat. The practical section of the book begins with the essential principles governing jiu jitsu, and continues with combination maneuvers; specific positions and their advantages in competition; basic submission techniques; the concept of joined centers; training tips; and a glimpse into intermediate positions and their functions. Full-color photo sequences with expert demonstrations supplement the meticulous descriptions. A glossary, index, and a list of useful international jiu jitsu contacts round out this informative guide. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A superbly presented and highly recommended instruction manual
A very nicely illustrated martial arts instruction manual, "Jiu-Jitsu: The Essential Guide To Mastering The Art" by professional martial arts instructor Hans-Erik Petermann begins with a brief historical overview of how Jiu Jitsu developed as a martial art, then goes on to take the reader through the basic elements of Jiu Jitsu training, providing a 'student friendly', step-by-step instruction into essential Jiu Jitsu techniques, self-defense skills, and even world wide contacts for students, competitors, and practitioners of Jiu Jitsu. A part of the Blue Snake Books' 'The Martial Arts Series', "Jiu-Jitsu" is a superbly presented and highly recommended instruction manual that is the next best thing to being able to study Jiu Jitsu in a dojo. ... Read more

Book Description


Hey Kids!Learn the "hands-on" art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu!!

Learn the nitty-gritty of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu!Charles dos Anjos and Larry Shealy, two Royce Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Network Representatives, have developed a fun, interactive program that teaches Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu just for you!

Their trademarked "Kid-Jitsu(R)" curriculum is a program that will help keep your mind and body healthy."Kid-Jitsu" will help you excel in all areas of your life.Learning the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu will instill self-control, motivation, discipline, and better mental focus while teaching you fantastic self-defense skills.

Larry Shealy has trained with the best of the best ~ Legendary Royce Gracie!This is what Royce Gracie has to say about the "Kid-Jitsu" founder: "Larry Shealy has been a student of mine for over ten years. He received his purple belt (3rd Degree) from me and continues to spread my family's style of Jiu-Jitsu as my Royce Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Network Representative in Jacksonville, Florida.He teaches a very successful youth program.I am thrilled to have him as part of my team." Royce Gracie ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Kid-Jitsu corresponding DVD
Please be aware that this book comes with a corresponding DVD that must be bought from the author.The contact information is in the appendix of the book. ... Read more

Book Description
Rigan Michado, one of the most knowledgeable Brazilian jiu jitsu practitioners in the world, introduced for the first time in published form his famous "Machado Jiu Jitsu" techniques.This book encompasses an enormous variety of techniques, including arm locks, chokes and leg locks. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (23)

Very instructive
I belive this a very instructional book. An image for each move in each technic. Lots of arms, legs and choke technics.Also, lots of tips. Its a litle short on take downs and counter attacks. Anyways, very good book. A must have if your a serius practitioner of BJJ.

Save Your Money
Like other reviews have stated, this book was a HUGE disappointment.The pictures are of poor quality and the descriptions are worthless.The way this book is setup it's impossible to capture any of the details of the moves.As anyone who has studied BJJ knows, the details are key.

I wish I could get my money back for this garbage.

Warning: Not for beginners!
This book assumes that you already know the basic mechanics of BJJ and therefore, it jumps right into the techniques. This books could be used more as a reference to someone who has BEEN learning BJJ for sometime. This book is definitely not for the beginner. The explainations are very vague. A beginner would most likely execute the techniques improperly if not supplementing this book with an actual BJJ course. I would not recommend this for a beginner nor an advanced student.

Best bang for your buck, where submissions are concerned.
Though the book is kind of small, it does have probably the greatest variety of submissions for the least amount of space.Most of the book is devoted to submissions with a gi, but there is a chapter on non-gi hooks.The book is organized, chapter-wise, into the part of the body the hold works (legs, chokes, arms).It's not as detailed as other works, and covers only submission holds (instead of throws, strikes, possitions, reversals), and in that, I think the title is misleading.But if you're going to be using a gi with your submissions, go ahead and pick up this book.

leg locks
It has not nice pictures like Gracies' books but some useful techniques which are absent in their books, so it can complement them. In addition, the face of Machado may give you an inspiration for practicing harder, it is like seen Arnold Schwarzenegger and Franco Colombus developping their muscles in some basement without proper lighting, old jeans etc. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

For Visual Learners Only.
I think that this book is good for people that are good visual learners. Like a previous reviewer said it has no explainations to the techniques. It has the name of the technique in six different languages but no descriptions. But this book is also really cheap and it does have some good pictures so if you got an extra 15 bucks and don't mind carefully studying pictures instead of text buy it. Im glad I added it to my collection considering he's a 9th Degree Black belt under Helio Gracie.

Not impressed!
Master Mansur is one of the legends of BJJ, but this book does not do any justice to him or his system. It is more of a pictorial of moves with no explaination of how to execute them. Unless you have some background in BJJ, this book would be very hard to learn from. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

GreatSelf-Defense Manual
This was one of the first books on self-defense and the martial arts I owned as a child, and being able to find this in print again was exciting.Bruce Tegner remains one of the best authors in the area of self-defense, and this book offers a wealth of information to the reader.Filled with pictures and practical tips, this is an excellent self-study course, or can be used in conjunction with an existing martial arts program.

Great Companion to Combat Hapkido class
Learning Martial Arts requires a good teacher and fellow students to practice with. Especially so, in martial arts like Aikido, Jujitsu, Hapkido etc. where trapping, grappling and throws are involved.
While no book can replace a teacher and participation in a class, this book is an excellent companion if you are taking any of the afore-mentioned martial arts classes.
This book does not provide you with lessons in history and philosophy of jujitsu. If that's what you are looking for try other books.
This one gives you the stuff you need to know and use - plain and simple.

Another great primer for self-taught self-defense
In response to the review that had an agenda to discourage people from picking up a book to learn the basics of self-defense...I'd just like tosay that one of my best friends was attacked one day while walking from thegrocery store by three of his enemies from school (how they became hisenemies is another story) and one of these individuals was armed with aswitch-blade and used it without reserve in his attack.My buddy not onlyescaped with his life but inflicted injuries on all three of the assaliantsleaving them more hurt than he was.Afterwards the police were informedbut the assailants were never caught.Nonetheless my friend attributes hissuccessful defense to what he taught himself from books which includedBruce Lee's Fighting Method and one of Bruce Tegner's guides (I believe itwas Bruce Tegner's Kung Fu and Tai Chi).

So while I understand why manypeople like to think they're giving good advice when they expressplatitudes such as "you must not learn defense from a book!",they're not speaking from the truth but rather, in my opinion, from a verydeep denial that SOME ONE ELSE can actually spend less money and timeteaching themselves something that took them (the ones spending years in amartial arts class) years and expenses to obtain.Now, I am not knockingmartial arts classes.I've simply been shown that they are by no means theonly way of learning defense.

Bruce Tegner's Complete Book ofSelf-Defense is a rather impressive guide.The text is just asenlightening as the photos...Tegner has a very distinct way of writing thatyou can tell comes from the heart.He details an accesible and intelligentmethod for self-defense which is very inspiring.Tegner himself suggestsstudying his methods with a partner.Unfortunately he does not express hisview on someone using the concept of an imaginary opponent in case they donot have a partner to practice with.

The only reason I do not give it 5stars instead of 4 is because he left out many useful things that haveappeared in one of his pervious books, Defense Tactics for Law Enforcement. In that book he covers many areas that should have been listed in thisbook such as how to disarm someone with a gun as well as a more detailedaccount on how to deal with multiple assaliants (in this book he gives somevague advice which is very good, but lacking).

All in all, I would readthis along with Defense Tactics for Law Enfrocement.That book fills inthe gaps left out by this one.

Martial art material is good, but the editorial is poor.
Tegner presents some excellent insights into the striking techniques of martial arts, but his commmentary on the styles left me with a distaste for his work:he puts Judo down as a martial art, then proceeds to draw betterthan 60% of his techniques from Judo!I disagree with his premise thatsomeone could pick up his book and start practicing the techniques shown,safely, without an experienced instructor to oversee the student's work. After 10 years of martial arts experience, I would never advise anyone topick up a book and teach themselves a martial art:they would end up withserious injuries.Books are wonderful to supplement, and enhance, amartial artist's techniques and skills, but they are not a good way tolaunch a martial art career:a book cannot be asked for guidance when atechnique is not working, nor can a book correct your misunderstanding ofwhat is presented.

I recommend this book to martial art students andinstructors -- not to those who wish to begin studying a martial art bythemselves.

Nidan Judo, Nidan Ju-Jitsu.

A good solid introduction to self defense
I bought this book when it was first published as a teen also studying shotokan karate.I have to admit that I find the methods in this book to be more practical than the karate I took.I don't agree with everything Tegnerwrote, but if you are looking to learn practical self defense withoutspending years in a martial arts class, then this book could really helpyou.I would recommend that you also read Rex Applegate, Fairbairn or BradSteiner to add some real dirty methods to your overall training.Butoverall, a good book as a foundation. ... Read more