📖 Overview
Jiu-Jitsu University presents a systematic approach to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training, written by Saulo Ribeiro with Kid Peligro. The book breaks down techniques from white belt to black belt level, organizing them by both difficulty and strategic purpose.
The curriculum follows a progressive structure, starting with survival and defense fundamentals before advancing to more complex offensive techniques. Each chapter contains detailed instruction accompanied by photographs demonstrating proper form and execution.
Rather than focusing solely on submissions, the text emphasizes position control and defensive strategies as foundational elements. The authors include insights about common mistakes and how to avoid them at each belt level.
The book stands as a comprehensive reference that reflects the methodical nature of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as both a martial art and a system of problem-solving. Its approach underscores the importance of fundamentals and gradual skill development over flashy techniques.
👀 Reviews
Readers describe this as a systematic, technique-focused reference book that covers BJJ fundamentals through advanced concepts. The book's photography and step-by-step instructions receive frequent mention in reviews.
Likes:
- Clear organization by belt level
- Detailed survival and defense techniques for beginners
- High-quality photos showing techniques from multiple angles
- Focus on common mistakes and how to avoid them
- Emphasis on fundamentals and proper positioning
Dislikes:
- Limited coverage of submissions and attacks
- Some find the writing dry and technical
- Advanced sections feel rushed compared to basics
- Paper quality could be better for frequent use
- Photos can be hard to interpret for complete beginners
Ratings:
Amazon: 4.8/5 (2,400+ reviews)
Goodreads: 4.6/5 (2,800+ ratings)
Multiple reviewers note it works better as a reference guide than a standalone learning tool. One frequent comment is "This book helped me survive as a white belt" or similar variations.
📚 Similar books
Mastering Jujitsu by Renzo Gracie, John Danaher
The book presents a systematic breakdown of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu's evolution, mechanics, and teaching methodology from two respected practitioners.
The Grappler's Handbook by Jean Jacques Machado and Jay Zeballos This work delivers technical BJJ instruction through step-by-step sequences that connect fundamental concepts to advanced applications.
5 Rules for White Belts by Chris Matakas The text provides a framework for beginning BJJ practitioners to understand the learning process and technical progression of the art.
The Path: Building a Life of Character Through Martial Arts by Rorion Gracie The book combines technical BJJ instruction with insights into the Gracie family's training methods and philosophical approach.
Drill to Win by Andre Galvao The work presents a methodical training system that focuses on drilling techniques and position-specific exercises for BJJ improvement.
The Grappler's Handbook by Jean Jacques Machado and Jay Zeballos This work delivers technical BJJ instruction through step-by-step sequences that connect fundamental concepts to advanced applications.
5 Rules for White Belts by Chris Matakas The text provides a framework for beginning BJJ practitioners to understand the learning process and technical progression of the art.
The Path: Building a Life of Character Through Martial Arts by Rorion Gracie The book combines technical BJJ instruction with insights into the Gracie family's training methods and philosophical approach.
Drill to Win by Andre Galvao The work presents a methodical training system that focuses on drilling techniques and position-specific exercises for BJJ improvement.
🤔 Interesting facts
🥋 Saulo Ribeiro, the main author behind Jiu-Jitsu University, earned his black belt at age 21 and became World Champion just two years later.
📚 The book breaks down BJJ techniques into five distinct "belts" of learning, following the traditional progression from white to black belt.
🎯 Unlike many martial arts books that focus on advanced moves, this book dedicates nearly one-third of its content to defensive techniques and survival positions.
🌟 Kid Peligro, the co-author, has written or contributed to over 20 martial arts books and is considered one of the most prolific writers in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu literature.
🔍 The photographs in the book were specifically shot to show techniques from multiple angles, with over 2,000 step-by-step images included in the publication.