Welcome to Week 13 of the Gracie Barra Curriculum! This week, we’re introducing new self-defense techniques, takedowns, and ground work across all classes, with an emphasis on keeping training fun and engaging. Here’s what students can look forward to as they hit the mats:
Tiny Champions (3-4 years old) & Little Champions 1
Our Tiny Champions and Little Champions 1 will be tackling some exciting new skills this week. In Class A, they’ll learn how to escape a standing rear choke—an essential self-defense move that will teach them confidence and control in tricky situations. In Class B, they’ll practice the one-hand shoulder throw, a dynamic takedown that introduces them to the fundamentals of throws.
For their ground technique, they’ll focus on recovering guard from the bottom turtle position. This technique is great for helping young students understand how to transition from a defensive position back to a more neutral one, putting them in a better spot to regain control.
Little Champions 2 & Juniors
For our Little Champions 2 and Juniors, Class A will focus on defending against punches from the guard position, combining this defense with clinch control and the sit-up sweep. These moves are not only practical but also help build coordination between defense and attack. In Class B, they’ll practice the one-hand shoulder throw, this time from the knees—a modified version that emphasizes balance and leverage.
On the ground, the professor will introduce a variety of sweeps and submissions from the bottom guard. Learning these techniques will teach students how to turn a defensive position into an opportunity for attack.
Fundamentals Class (Adults)
Adults in the Fundamentals class will cover some essential self-defense techniques from the bottom of the closed guard in Class A, including blocking punches and transitioning into a clinch and finishing with a triangle choke. This sequence is powerful and practical, providing a great defense against aggressive opponents.
For the ground technique, students will work on the sit-up sweep from closed guard and the kimura submission from closed guard—both key moves for controlling and submitting an opponent.
Class B will dive into distance management from the bottom of closed guard, utilizing the knee shield to manage space and transitioning into an uptick and technical lift. On the ground, students will work on sweeps from spider guard, a versatile technique that enhances control and mobility.
All Levels & Advanced Classes
For our All Levels and Advanced classes, the focus will be on transitions to guard and sacrifice throws. These moves challenge students to think strategically and adjust their timing. The professor’s choice of ground techniques will further challenge students to elevate their skills, and all classes will finish with specific training and drills to reinforce what they’ve learned.
🗣️Word of the Week: Fun
This week’s word is fun—something that’s at the heart of every Jiu-Jitsu class. While Jiu-Jitsu challenges us both mentally and physically, it’s also a practice that can be incredibly rewarding and enjoyable. Whether it’s the satisfaction of mastering a new technique, the camaraderie with training partners, or the thrill of sparring, Jiu-Jitsu offers a unique kind of fun that keeps us coming back to the mats. As we train this week, let’s embrace the joy of learning, and remember that having fun is an important part of the journey in Jiu-Jitsu.
Week 13 promises to be packed with learning, growth, and, of course, plenty of fun! We look forward to seeing everyone bring their energy and excitement to the mats as we continue building skills and enjoying the journey together.
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If you want to have a FREE trial class, check out our schedule here and give us a call at 720-541-8515 or email us at info@gbcentennial.com!
