DSTRYR/SG AND BJJ HACKS EXCLUSIVE: "BJJ HACKS BRAZILIAN BLOG"/VOLUME 8

Clark Gracie X BJJ Hacks

Grapplers, here's the latest from BJJ Hacks' "Brazilian Blog," exclusive here at DSTRYR/SG (by Hywel Teague):

Training Brazilian jiu-jitsu in Rio de Janeiro isn't just an endless series of tough training sessions punctuated by trips to the beach and feasts of açaí. It could be, if that's what you want, but for me it's something different.

My time in Rio has exposed me to many, many masters of Brazilian jiu-jitsu, from people my own age who are at the pinnacle of the competition scene, to senior citizens who were training jiu-jitsu when my father was still a child.

Each and every one of these guys has provided me with some kind of insight, be it physical, technical, philosophical or what have you. From tips on 'live' feet versus 'dead' feet when passing guard, to maintaining a positive attitude when times are tough, to the mystical Rickson-esque concept of 'connection'… There is something to be gleaned from everyone.

Royler Gracie X BJJ Hacks

If there's one thing I've picked up while training jiu-jitsu in Rio - it's that I've learned how to learn jiu-jitsu.

I've heard many black belts talk about the day the faixa preta is tied around their waist. They say they don't feel like they've arrived somewhere - in fact, it's like their journey is only just beginning. This used to scare the hell out of me and left me wondering if 10+ years in jiu-jitsu is a price worth paying to feel like you're starting out again, but what they were saying is that the black belt brings an understanding of just how deep the rabbit hole goes.

Terere X BJJ Hacks

I'm fortunate in that I'm in regular contact with literal masters of the art of jiu-jitsu, grapplers whose understanding and application of their skill is sometimes difficult to communicate. however, this approach of finding specialists and then mining them for information on their area of interest shouldn't be limited to only the grand masters, the world champions or the top black belts – it's something that can be done with almost anyone. From picking the brain of that one guy in your gym who's really good at deep half or asking the right questions at a seminar.

Braulio Estima X BJJ Hacks

You're the only person who is responsible for your own development, so spare a thought to how you can 'hack' your own jiu-jitsu to make it better. If you listen carefully you'll come across many parcels of wisdom and insight in my videos. And if you can get anything from our films that will help your game grow, then we've succeeded in out mission. Good luck.