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Common Jiu Jitsu Injuries and How To Deal With Them (Part II)

bjj injuries part 2
 

By: Tyler Bishop

Since we opened the site several years ago, we’ve experienced a lot of traffic. Over a million visitors to be precise. We’ve released groundbreaking studies, published unique content, and shared rich media that has received incredibly positive feedback (btw… thank you, readers). But, there is one piece of content that we published almosta  year ago that gets more average hits a day than any other. It’s probably not hard to guess what that is; given the title of this post and the graphic at the top. That’s right. Our article on common jiu jitsu injuries is one of the most popular that we’ve done, and we have received a lot of requests to publish another. Welp, straight from your keyboards to God’s ears. Here we go…

Hip Injuries

Hip injuries are the worst. Remember when Chubs said, “it’s all in the hips”. Yeah, he was talking about jiu jitsu … or golf… or hockey. It doesn’t matter. He was right! Whether you’ve actually torn something in your hips, built in imbalances due to overuse/underuse with certain movements, or simply have stinging tightness from sitting all day, fixing your hips is paramount to performing on the mats. Here are a couple of good tips for hip injuries…

  1. “Roll out…” Ludacris (2001). Ole Luda was right. You have to roll your hips out. A lot of tightness and existing injury lies bound up in the myofacial tissue in the muscle surrounding your hips. Step #1 to any form of hip injury treatment should start with rolling out your hips (Spine-Health). This creates the ideal conditions to any of the things we will execute to try to rehabilitate and improve performance. Perform 3-5 times per week (here’s a good reference).
  2. Perform hip mobility exercises. These have personally helped me more than just about anything else. Bird-dogs, fire-hydrants, back bridges, and hurdler exercises have done a world of good for my often injured hips (use Google Images if you don’t know what some of these are). I looked into the types of exercises most recommended by physical therapists for rehabilitating injured or imbalanced hips and these four were most commonly prescribed. Perform them 3-5 times per week.
  3. Stretch. I’ve heard some experts say to avoid stretching or yoga all together. Those people suck and definitely don’t do jiu jitsu. Yoga and specific stretching helps me to ensure proper mobility when I’m on the mats. Below is my favorite yoga series for stretching. I did this everyday for a month and improved my flexibility significantly. It also greatly improved how my hips and shoulders felt. Try performing it no less than twice a week (don’t worry if you can’t do it perfect, neither can I)

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLqnfny6QeM&w=560&h=315]
 
Hope that helps. What injury should we focus on next?

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"It's Science" Videos

It's Science: Gianni Grippo

Full Article In The Next Issue Of Jiu Jitsu Style Magazine

Gianni1

Notable Study Stats:
• 100% of passes were of a leg drag variety
• No sweeps or passes occurred from half-guard
• Won 80% of his matches
• Submitted his opponent in 50% of wins
• Scored first in every match he won
• His average match length was 8 minutes
• 75% of sweeps came from De La Riva or Reverse De La Riva

Abstract: All matches observed of Gianni Grippo, used in this small sample, occurred at IBJJF events, inside his weight division, and in the years 2012-2014. Only techniques, occurrences, and outcomes that were recorded are displayed in the data below (i.e. if no butterfly sweeps occurred, there will not be a representation of that in the sample data charts). Matches were selected at random based on freely available matches online – selected using a random generator from 20 total total IBJJF matches that occurred in in the study timeline. This is a limited sample – but given the estimated amount of matches in this time period – it is well above the percentage necessary to create a scientifically validated trend sampling.

The Breakdown: Gianni Grippo is the youngest competitor we have ever studied. In fact, he has been a black belt competitor for only 1 year so far. It’s a credit to his diligence as a competitor that there is actually a large enough sample to conduct a breakdown. With that in mind, Gianni already displays the characteristic we tend to see in all of our top-competitor breakdowns. Grippo has an incredibly defined tournament strategy and gameplan. This leads to a high winning percentage (80%), and a strong submission percentage (50%).

Gianni is well known for his De La Riva and reverse De La Riva guard game. It’s easy to see why this happens to be the case. This is the foundation that Grippo’s primary strategy is built around. 75% of all of his sweeps that we recorded occurred from DLR or RDLR guard, and he uses these sweeps and attacks to setup his passing and submission techniques. In fact, you could argue that the broadest approach Grippo takes is from the guard. In our study Grippo used 4 different sweeping positions and 4 different sweep-types to attack his opponent from the bottom. As the game further unfolds, Grippo becomes more and more defined in his approach. The only type of pass we recorded Gianni executing in the study was a leg drag pass. What’s more, this leg drag passing strategy led to two separate roads to the back. These roads included a back take from the pass it self, or a back take from an attempted escape once he was able to establish side-control.

Grippo’s submission game was even more defined. The only submission we recorded during the study were chokes from the back. It becomes clear upon reflection that Gianni Grippo has become an expert in walking each of his opponents into a very familiar fate. He has one of the most defined strategies of any competitor we’ve studied; and it all starts from the DLR or RDLR guard.

Taking everything into account, it is obvious that Grippo’s end-game involves the back, and he reverse engineers it from his strongest and most diversified position, open guard. The only downside to having such a defined game is that it paints a very clear picture to opponents as to what your comfort zone is. However, Gianni has seemed to understand this. Recently, in a post on his brand new blog, GianniGrippo.com, ….

Read the rest of this article in the next issue of Jiu Jitsu Style

grippo stat sheet

 

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Interviews

Podcast #16: BishopBJJ team breaks down JJGF and more…

The crew has an all-skate and discusses everything we know about the JJGF as of right now (rumors, truths, etc.), and tries to make sense of it all. We also tell BJJ challenge stories, discuss the rules of BJJ, and what it means to be a black belt.

Have a question for the podcast crew? Submit it here.
[contact-form][contact-field label=’Name’ type=’name’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Email’ type=’email’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Comment’ type=’textarea’ required=’1’/][/contact-form]
 

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BishopBjj News

World Jiu Jitsu Championship 2014 – Podcast Breakdown

BishopBjj.com Podcast Breaking Down Worlds

Check out our latest podcast as we discuss a variety of World Jiu Jitsu topics including:
–       What’s on the docket?
o   Complete Worlds Breakdown

  • Stories
  • Results
  • Trends
  • Futures
  • Memories

o   Eddie Bravo Invitational talk
o   Bloody Elbow article conversation
o   New techniques in BJJ

  • Worm guard

o   Jiu Jitsu Pet Peeves
o   Jons Sour Grapes
o   Jena’s Hate Corner
o   Roosters jiu jitsu travel tip
o   Mikes nerd topic
o   Phil’s Thoughts
 

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BishopBjj News

Jiu jitsu Podcast #14 : Inside Story World Pro Jiu Jitsu

4-28-2014
Check out the latest edition of out podcast featuring the inside story on Abu Dhabi World Pro, and much much more!

 

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BishopBjj News

Winners and Losers – Post-Metamoris III

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By: Tyler Bishop
So the latest installment of Metamoris has finally happened, and the promotion delivered their largest and most anticipated event to date. The event was hyped from the beginning, selling out live attendance on the first day tickets were publically available. But did it live up to the hype?
The events success  depends on who you ask, and what their opinion is about jiu jitsu competition. The facts are as follows; the live experience, stream, and production were more successful and more dynamic than the previous two shows, even though Jeff Glover had many moments that likely had audience members burying their hands in their faces. The updated and streamlined production with little filler between matches provided a well-organized, no-nonsense display for fans. The event appeared professional and provided an adequate stage for top competitors while allowing true fan to appreciate the performance.
While only 2 of the 6 matches on the card finished in submission, many of the matches maintained a high-level of excitement despite the matches finishing in a draw. In fact, the most exciting match of the entire night, the headliner, resulted in a draw; however, it is now being heralded as one the most exciting matches in recent history online. The rule set itself is still not perfect. Some of the  competitors still have not adjusted to the proper way to compete in these matches, and the end result is often a strange series of events (see Lister/Sobral). However, quite subjectively, I can say that this card was more exciting than the past two, and that seems to be the general consensus among popular online jiu jitsu destinations as well.
To improve future shows, Metamoris will likely need to improve the rule set and evolve and build upon current models, but all-in-all Metamoris III appears to have been a success (in terms of execution). Once stream purchase numbers are tallied, I’m sure the organizers will be able to tell you one way or the other if the show was truly a success.
To improve action in the future, perhaps future events should consider four 5 minute rounds, or perhaps two 10 minute rounds. I often advocate this approach based on the success of the old Rickson Budo Challenge event (one of the greatest ever held). Many have never heard or seen of this event, but it provided some the most exciting matches in history. Metamoris and others would be smart to evaluate this extraordinary past event for future ideas.
Using staggered criteria, I think it’s fair to say Metamoris and the fans watching were winners on Saturday evening, but among the other parties involved, who were winners and who were losers? I do my best below to breakdown the events beneficiaries below. Enjoy!
 

Winner: Zak Maxwell, and Guard Passing in Sub-Only events

zak
While the Sean Roberts/Zak Maxwell match ended in a draw, the last 10 minutes were a great display of cat and mouse between Zak and Sean. With so many lighter competitors developing dangerously dynamic guards, it has become difficult for those with a guard passing-style in those lighter weight classes. While the start of this match was a reflection of this construct – with both competitors attempting guard work – Zak made the decision to play the top position about halfway through the match. What was so interesting about this was the strategy that I believe he revealed to all future Metamoris competitors.
Although Zak had to weather the early storm of guard attacks from Sean – fending off multiple omoplatas and armlocks – he was eventually able to find his stride and pass the guard and secure several dominant positions and very close submissions. The final minutes were all Maxwell. What future competitors should glean from this is the flexibility that the Metamoris rule set allows. Typically competitors fear playing against another top guard player due to the threat of being swept or submitted; however if the you can get past the fear of being submitted – under Metamoris rules, competitors can gain a new level of comfort. Let me explain. Let’s say Zak determined that he could avoid the guard submissions. If that’s the case, then all he has to fear are sweeps. Well, there are no points for sweeps and if the opponent wants to play guard it’s likely they will not follow-up on the sweep if they land it. Basically, if you can stay out of submissions you are granted unlimited guard passing attempts. Zak exposed this in the rules and the current dynamic, and almost secured several submissions for his efforts.
It will be interesting to see if others employ this method of attack in the future. In my opinion, both Sean and Zak come out looking very well in this match, but Zak’s display of jiu jitsu exemplified an interesting dynamic about guard passing under these unique circumstances.
 

Loser: Rafeal Mendes

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Rafael Mendes is anything but a loser. However, in this event he did not grow the brand of the Rafa Mendes legend.  Our site has routinely featured Mendes for his dynamic style and dominance, but his performance in this event was a little uninspired.
Although Rafa displayed just how smooth and beautiful his berimbolo attack can be, he was unable to get it to find it’s mark against a very skilled Clark Gracie. It is not my intention to take away from Clark’s performance in my critique of Mendes, rather a critique of Rafa’s approach to the match. Even after 15 minutes of solid berimbolo defense from Gracie, Mendes refused to try a different strategy. Now, I realize I am now calling for a top competitor to play outside his game (something against our scientific analysis’), but Rafa is being debated as one of the best grapplers on the planet. Surely, he could have tried to showcase himself in another area in which he is dominant. Those that watch his AOJ rolling videos were waiting for those flashes of pure domination seen on film. But Mendes seemed determined to stick to a plan that was doomed from the start. The frustration from many seems to really stem form the conservative approach this seems to be from someone who is being debated as one of the best in the game right now. Fair or unfair, a draw wasn’t good enough for Rafael Mendes.

Winner: Eddie Bravo (and his No-Gi techniques), Royler, and the fans

eb
Most fans, myself included, saw the Royler-Bravo matchup as a one-sided affair waiting to happen. As the match began, it looked like that was exactly what it was going to be. However, Bravo showed a lot of heart dealing with the unrelenting pressure passing of Royler early on (someone who made that style of passing famous). Bravo was then successfully able to execute several of his patented sweeps and submission attempts to one of the greatest of all time. The match was back and forth, and ultimately Bravo proved to be more than just a  game opponent. He showed that he belonged in that environment, and that many of the techniques he has often been criticized for hold legitimate application. Bravo did exactly what he was trying to do for years, prove that he could compete with Royler, and that his first win wasn’t some kind of fluke.
Royler and Bravo both come out looking very good after such a great fight. It was the most exciting of the night and included two competitors with a combined age of 90! Both should inspire the next generation on a series of different levels. While I think everyone on the planet would be excited to see a third match, I am quite sure that will be the last time either fighter competes ever again.

Loser: Those that didn’t purchase the live stream

stream
I’m sure many will now complain that we are schilling for Metamoris, but the truth is we’re not…at all. For those that are podcast listeners, you know that Jena and I have never advocated sub-only events. We have also both criticized past events as well. However, this event was a great event to watch, and ended up being a very entertaining production. It was far from perfect in just about every faucet, but it was good enough for anyone that is a fan of jiu jitsu to enjoy. As the rules and production quality evolve, it should be expected that this type of entertainment should continue. It still isn;t to level that the average person could enjoy, but we are fast approaching that era in my opinion.
Most of all, those that missed out on Gracie-Bravo II will never be able to duplicate the intensity of watching that match live. Although the video is widely available online right now, watching the event live felt historical. It was a throwback to the early legendary matches of jiu jitsu that live in todays history books. If you missed it, you truly missed out.

Winner: Kevin Casey

kevincasey
Many only know Kevin Casey by reputation only. Casey is famous for several jiu jitsu controversy’s, including but not limited to; the Spencer Pratt fiasco. However, to take a grappling match on that huge stage against one of the best in the world on only a few hours notice is incredible. It showed true bravery and very little ego. Kevin performed very admirable at the start of the match, and although he faded in the second half, he showcased good technique and was able execute some initiatives against Keenan that few others would have had success with.
Ultimately, I’m not sure it was simply a win-win opportunity by choosing to take the match. Had Casey gone out there and gotten tapped in 2 minutes or less, the crowd would have felt cheated, and Casey himself would have looked like a chump for thinking he could compete with someone of Keenan’s caliber on short notice. However, he competed very well and ended up looking as good as anyone else on the card.
 
What are your thoughts on M3?
 

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BishopBjj News

Epic Pan Jiu jitsu Matches

Checkout my personal collection of favorite Pan matches. Which is your favorite? Vote below.

Clark Gracie vs. Lapela

First up, Clark Gracie vs. Marcelo Mafra. This match was so interesting to watch live. You almost couldn’t believe Clark was able to will himself to victory at the end. It reminded me of Buchecha winning the absolute in 2012 in the final seconds.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vD1QOAh-W_Q?rel=0&w=560&h=315])

Kron vs. Buchecha

Wait, Kron and Buchecha have competed before? Oh yes. Having witnessed the match in-person, I have to say it was one of the most intense and active matches I’ve ever had a chance to see. It’s the match that first made me notice Buchecha. It also shows just how scrappy Kron is.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j1M0Uz2KpQc?rel=0&w=560&h=315])

Cobrinha vs. Rafa Mendes

Few matches make you hold your breath to the point of exhaustion like this one did to everyone in attendance. Cobrinha and Rafa have fought many times. Most of their matches have been very close with the winner only getting a slight edge over the other. Every match except THIS ONE!
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dul-rG1QFvY?rel=0&w=420&h=315])

Jacare vs. Terere

At the time this was the clash of the titans. Looking back this was an epic battle of athletes. there are few competitors now with the equaled athleticism of Jacare and Terere.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1v0Bodj3fKw?rel=0&w=420&h=315])

Roger Gracie vs. Lovato Jr.

Lovato had made a name for himself. He was the best American competing at the time, and Roger was beginning to be at his peak. The match is textbook Roger Gracie. It shows just how good he was in that peroid.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vb66kMc2ZlA?rel=0&w=420&h=315])
Obviously, many of mine are of the modern era. I can’t help it. This is the era I’ve experienced. Not only that, but all the epic matches in history are not all represented well online. Hopefully with the advent of IBJJFTV this will not be a problem for future generations.
[polldaddy poll=7870710]
fuji shirt 1
 
 

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Interviews

BishopBjj Podcast #11: Guest Bear Quitugua f/ Shoyoroll

Check out the latest episode of the podcast featuring Bear from Shoyoroll. We discuss the World Jiu Jitsu Expo, ADCC, The Miyao Brothers, and much more.

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Interviews

Podcast #10: Carlos Machado & More…

podcast 10 image
Check out our latest podcast featuring jiu jitsu legend, Master Carlos Machado.

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Interviews

Podcast #8: Kyle Watson – Jiu Jitsu Growth

kyle watson ufc
Check out our latest edition of the podcast featuring guest Kyle Watson – brazilian jiu jitsu black belt, UFC veteran, Ultimate Fighter contestant, and Pan Am Masters Champion.
We discuss ADCC, the jiu jitsu expo, the growth of jiu jitsu, and a perfect tournament scenario.