Opening Closed Guard

Opening Closed Guard is a comprehensive history of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) that traces the martial art from its origins to modern times. The book presents extensive research and previously unpublished historical records to document BJJ's development. Authors Robert Drysdale and Marcelo Cohen examine the role of key figures in BJJ's evolution, including the Gracie family and other influential practitioners. They investigate the links between Japanese judo, early catch wrestling, and the emergence of BJJ as a distinct martial art in Brazil. The text incorporates over 200 interviews with BJJ practitioners, family members, and historians to construct a detailed timeline of events. Historical photographs, documents, and first-hand accounts provide supporting evidence for the book's historical claims. The work challenges several established narratives about BJJ's history while exploring themes of mythology, family legacy, and the ways martial arts evolve through cultural exchange. Its analytical approach raises questions about how origin stories shape martial arts traditions.

Most readers describe this as a thorough historical study of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu that challenges common narratives about the art's development. Readers appreciate: - Extensive research and documentation - Demystification of BJJ origin stories - Coverage of lesser-known figures and events - High-quality photos and physical book production Main criticisms: - Dense academic writing style can be difficult to follow - Some readers found the price ($75-90) too high - A few note that certain claims lack sufficient evidence Ratings: Amazon: 4.6/5 (89 reviews) Goodreads: 4.5/5 (58 ratings) Specific reader comments: "Finally a BJJ history book with actual citations and research" - Amazon reviewer "Too much focus on disproving myths rather than telling the story" - Goodreads review "The writing is dry but the information is gold" - BJJ Fanatics review Several readers note the book reads more like an academic text than a casual history book.

Mastering Jiu-jitsu by Renzo Gracie and John Danaher Examines the technical evolution and historical development of Brazilian Jiu-jitsu through the lens of combat effectiveness and strategic principles.

The Cauliflower Chronicles by Marshal D. Carper Chronicles the journey of training Brazilian Jiu-jitsu in Hawaii while exploring the sport's culture, traditions, and transformation from martial art to global phenomenon.

The Book of Five Rings by Miyamoto Musashi Presents martial arts strategy and philosophy through the perspective of a 17th-century samurai, with principles that parallel modern grappling arts.

On Combat by Dave Grossman Analyzes the psychological and physiological effects of combat situations, providing insights into the warrior mindset that shaped martial arts development.

BJJ Globetrotter by Christian Graugart Documents a worldwide journey training Brazilian Jiu-jitsu across continents while exploring the art's different interpretations and evolutionary paths.

🥋 Robert Drysdale is both a decorated BJJ competitor and a trained historian, bringing academic rigor to his research about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu's origins 📚 The book challenges many commonly accepted narratives about BJJ's history, including the role of the Gracie family in its early development 🌍 Through extensive research in Japan and Brazil, the authors uncovered previously unknown connections between early Japanese immigrants and the development of BJJ ⚔️ The book reveals how marketing and mythology became intertwined with BJJ's historical narrative, particularly during Brazil's nationalist period of the 1930s 📅 The research for "Opening Closed Guard" spanned over a decade and included analysis of hundreds of primary sources in multiple languages, including rare documents and newspapers from the early 20th century