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

Rol Kids Mat Chats - Health & Lifestyle

This week's mat chats encourage kids to think about their health holistically — covering physical habits, the balance between activity and rest, and mental well-being. This helps promote a balanced, healthy lifestyle both on and off the mat.

Breakdown Kids techniques of the Week:

ROL Kids - Rear Naked Choke – 1. Hands in Place (seated behind partner in seatbelt); 2. Hug the Neck; 3. Grip the Bicep; 4. Hand Behind Head

ROL Kids - Rear Choke Defense (pulled back) – 1. Hands in Place (Partner hugs neck with one arm); 2. Heel & Turn; 3. Shoulder Trap; 4. Look Down and Push

This week's mat chats will be all about Respect.

“Respect is treating others with care.” These mat chats help kids understand the importance of respect for others (Golden Rule), for themselves, and for the martial art of Jiu Jitsu, while encouraging them to apply these lessons both in training and in life.

Kids techniques of the week:

ROL Kids - Transition from Side to Top – 1. Hands in Place (Side Control); 2. Sit & Look at feet; 3. Tap & Step; 4. Top & Heavy

ROL Kids - Cross Choke from Top Control – 1. Hands in Place (Mount); 2. Hand Inside; 3. Other Hand Inside; 4. Lean Forward