"Position before submission." Life, like Jiu Jitsu, isn’t won by brute force—it’s won by strategy, patience, and control. When things feel overwhelming, I remember to get to the right "position" first. Control the chaos - especially in my mind. Then, and only then, make the move.

Control. In Jiu Jitsu, it's about controlling your opponent, your position, your movements—never rushing, never wasting energy, always knowing your next step before your opponent does. In life, control is about mastering your emotions, your reactions, and your environment. It's knowing when to push and when to hold back. It's about responding, not reacting. Control turns chaos into opportunity. LOL - alright journal entry done for the day - time to eat an apple.

This week we emphasize the importance of recognizing, using, and building upon your strengths in training and beyond.

“Use your strengths to build new strengths.”

Technique Breakdown:

ROL Kids - Kimura Bump from Guard - 1. Hands In Place (Closed Guard); 2. Hug the Arm; 3. Hip Bump; 4. Top Control

ROL Kids - Open Guard Sitting - 1. Hands In Place (Closed Guard - Hand on Hip, grip on lapels); 2. Knee In & Sit Back; 3. Loop Under & Grip Shoulder; 4. Pass to the Side

ROL Kids - Scissor Sweep - Hands in Place (Grip Lapel/Grip Sleeve); 2. Knee Inside; 3. Get to Elbow & Load; 4. Scissor Legs

LOL! Yeah the jiu-jitsu = weight loss paradox is real! The better we get with technique the less we sweat on the mat!

The easiest technique for me? It's not about the move, it's about the mindset. Staying calm under pressure is where I have learned to thrive since I first started. I started to realize maintaining control of my mind lets me control the mat. The technique follows naturally when you're in command of your mental game. Everything else - just the flow.

Yea - closed guard was and is still unappealling to me, but I have almost finally accepted that as a smaller guy it's a great way for me to set myself up for better positions especially against more experienced players.

MAT CHAT - SHARING JIUJITSU

“Grow together, stronger together.”

This week we emphasize the importance of sharing knowledge and supporting each other in Jiu Jitsu, showing that by helping one another, everyone becomes stronger.

ROL Kids - Arm Lock from Top Control – 1. Hands in Place (Mount – choose arm); 2. Hug the Arm; 3. Step Over and Sit; 4. Pinch and Fall Back

ROL Kids - Top Control Escape - Drag Over – 1. Hand in Place (Mount); 2. Frame Hip and Get to Side; 3. Trap the Foot and Drag; 4. Hip Escape and Re-Guard.

MAT CHAT TOPIC: HISTORY OF JIU-JITSU

“Honor the past, build your future.”

From 8th century samurais in Japan, 20th century Brazil, UFC in the 90s, to Rol Academy today - we will connect the dots leading all the way to our students training today.  This week we remind students that by learning from the rich history of Jiu Jitsu, they are laying the foundation for their own growth and success.

ROL Kids - Top Control Escape (trap, bridge and roll) – 1. Hands in Place (Mount); 2. Trap the Arm; 3. Trap the Foot; 4. Bridge and Roll

ROL Kids - Key Lock from Top Control – 1. Hands in Place (Mount); 2. Push the Arm; 3. Grab their Wrist; 4. Grab your wrist; 5. Paint the Mat