Essential Techniques in 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu
10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu, developed by Eddie Bravo, is renowned for its innovative approach to grappling, especially in no-gi scenarios. This system is a complete martial art focusing on control positions and transitions, submissions, and defenses that flow together seamlessly. Here, we explore the core techniques that one should master to become proficient in 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu.
Understanding the Rubber Guard
The Rubber Guard is the cornerstone of 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu. It offers an offensive and defensive framework from the guard position, making it difficult for opponents to pass and providing numerous submission opportunities. The main objective of the Rubber Guard is to break down the opponent's posture while maintaining control and transitioning smoothly between different positions.
Basic Positions and Controls
Mastering the basic positions and controls in 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu is essential for setting up submissions and maintaining dominance. These include:
- Mission Control: This is the initial stage of the Rubber Guard where one arm controls the opponent's head, and the other grips one's own shin, creating a strong defensive position.
- New York: Transitioning from Mission Control to a position where the opponent's head is further controlled, making it difficult for them to posture up.
- Chill Dog: This involves placing one's leg across the opponent's back to limit their movement and prepare for submissions.
- Invisible Collar: Similar to New York, but involves an additional grip on the opponent's collar for increased control.
Core Submissions
10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu offers a wide array of submissions, many of which are unique to this system. Here are some core submissions practitioners should master:
- Go-Go Plata: A choke submission using one's shin across the opponent's neck, commonly set up from Rubber Guard positions like New York or Chill Dog.
- Omo Plata: A shoulder lock that can be transitioned into from Rubber Guard by slipping the leg over the opponent's arm and locking it down.
- Arm Bar: A fundamental submission that is also frequently accessible from the various control positions in the Rubber Guard.
- Triangle Choke: A classic choke submission that is often executed from Mission Control by trapping one arm and the opponent's head.
Half Guard Game
Bravo's system includes a sophisticated Half Guard game, which is vital for both defense and setting up attacks. The Lockdown position, which involves locking the opponent's leg down with one's legs, is particularly notable. Techniques such as:
- The Electric Chair: A sweep and submission from the Lockdown that targets the groin and hamstrings.
- Old School: A sweep from the Lockdown that transitions into a dominant position.
- Stoner Control: A transition from the Lockdown leading into submissions such as the arm triangle.
The Twister
The Twister is a signature move in 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu that has gained a reputation for its effectiveness and uniqueness. It is a spinal lock that is set up from various positions, including the back mount and side control. Mastering the Twister requires an understanding of the following transitions:
- The Truck: A position used to set up the Twister, offering control and multiple submission options.
- The Whip Down: A method to transition from the Lockdown to the Truck.
- The Back Take: A route to move from the Truck to back control, from where the Twister can be executed.
Defensive Techniques and Escapes
A crucial aspect of 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu is its emphasis on defense and escapes. Some of the primary defensive techniques include:
- Granby Roll: An effective escape that can be used to transition from bottom positions back to guard.
- Reguarding: Techniques for returning to guard from disadvantaged positions such as side control or mount.
- Back Escapes: Various methods to escape from back mount and return to a neutral or advantageous position.
Conditioning and Drills
In addition to technical skills, conditioning is vital for success in 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu. Practitioners should focus on drills that enhance flexibility, strength, and endurance. Examples include:
- Hip Escapes: Also known as shrimping, these are fundamental for creating space and escaping bad positions.
- Guard Retention Drills: Drills that focus on maintaining and recovering guard, critical for setting up offensive moves.
- Positional Sparring: Practicing specific positions and transitions in a controlled manner to improve timing and execution.
Innovative Techniques
Eddie Bravo is known for continuously evolving the 10th Planet system. Keeping up with the latest techniques and strategies is essential. Practitioners should regularly attend seminars, study instructional videos, and train with experienced partners to stay updated.
Summary
10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu offers a comprehensive and dynamic approach to grappling. By mastering the essential techniques outlined above, practitioners can develop a robust and versatile game that is effective in both competition and self-defense scenarios.
Conclusion
The journey in mastering 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu is continuous, with always more to learn and refine. The core techniques form the foundation, but practitioners must stay adaptive and open to evolving their skill set. With dedication and consistent practice, one can become proficient in this innovative martial art system.