Mastering Jujitsu (Mastering Martial Arts)

The title lets this book down, no Mastery here but something much more real. Great intro into MMA and its constituent arts, interesting historical overview of JuiJitsu and a delve into the methods of determining the 'roots' of Martial Arts are just icing on an already very tasty cake. Some illustrated techniques are shown, these are chosen to illustrate the various 'stages' and 'ranges' covered in MMA as well as for there relative simplicity and effectiveness. If you are studying MMA this book is an interesting and enjoyable read. If you are thinking of studying and want a painless intro to the subject get this book then go join a club.

Written in cooperation with John Danaher, of Danaher death squad fame. A good read for any BJJ fan

I have been given a paper copy of this text (Kindle version is unreadable) and NOW appreciate the introduction (I didn't get past it on the Kindle!). It sets the scene for WHY Gracie Jiu Jitsu (GJJ) has become so prolific. In a world of points, competitions and elaborate techniques, GJJ still insists on being effective against personal assault - street readiness in a hostile world is crucial (especially in NYC - see Gracie Breakdown for NYPD pummelling their suspects !). Forget the 70's BS films and believing striking will deliver a knockout blow. Most fights end up on the ground. Your transitions from standing to clinching to grappling will be enhanced by this book. Key concepts and actual techniques are illustrated. The final key in the puzzle is simple; commit to attending your local GJJ school to support them during the pandemic (even on Zoom!). Stop waiting until your are lighter, fitter, stronger, more motivated etc. These excuses are stopping you feeling more confident in an increasingly aggressive world. GJJ is evidence-based self defence. You buy car & house insurance right? So invest in some personal safety insurance - buy this book and show up to a class ASAP. Today will be yesterday tomorrow!

This product contains a vast wealth of knowledge regarding BJJs history, its practical use in fighting and self defense and has large sections devoted to both. It is very much so more focused on old school classic Brazilian Jiu Jitsu such as in clinching a striking opponent and how to mitigate the impact of strikes or use them while restraining someone. It is not that relevant to modern sports BJJ and does not contain any new or revolationary moves in that regard but I do not personally consider this a bad thing as the older school of BJJ is often overlooked or forgotten about in most clubs now. I would definitely reccomend this book if you started Jiu Jitsu for self defense or if you are interested in MMA as this is what the book revolves around. It comes from Renzo's perspective and he is one of the best Gracie's to ask about this subject as he was a very active fighter in his day. If you are looking for an understanding of modern techniques such as inversions and berimbolo then you would be better off with another recent competitors DVD. Over all this is a great product for the basics of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and it is those basics that we should spend most of our time concentrating on.

Unputdownable. Does what it says on the tin.

Rather other a technical book, not so enjoyed to read frankly.

Arrived within 24 hours of purchase. The book opens up with a very in-depth look into the art of Jiu Jitsu, and the paths which it has taken on the journey to modern day Jiu Jitsu and BJJ. A quarter of the book is focused on stand up fighting, covering punches, defence, takedowns, and takedown defence. The remaining half of the book covers a range of jiu jitsu movements which are a list of instructions accompanied by images to show you step by step movements. The only problem with the book is something the image can leave you thinking "HOW DID HE GET FROM 2 to 3?" but that's a problem no book can beat. A little bit of patience and you'll really benefit from this book! Highly recommend to anyone who is practising Jiu Jitsu and looking to improve their knowledge of advanced and basic movements. Would also recommend to anyone who is interested in learning basic stand-up fighting!

A great book and a great buy. Stating off with a bit of history and some solid research into the beginings of the modern art of Jujitsu, the authors then move on to cover, in great detail, techniques, and just as important, stratagies, for the various types and stages of combat. Thoroughly enjoying it and I am already putting things into practice.

Love the historical bits.Danaher is an evil genius

Best Jujitsu book on the planet. Gracie provides a solid plan.

Muito bom!

Heel goed en leuk boek over de oorsprong en geschiedenis van BJJ ik had wat meer technieken verwacht.

My husband who does BJJ really enjoys the book. And the shipping was fast! Thanks!