BJJ Mental Models
Your guide to a conceptual and intelligent Jiu-Jitsu approach. BJJ black belt Steve Kwan and a slate of expert guests explain the concepts, strategies, and tactics behind the gentle art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
BJJ Mental Models
Ep. 130: Position Series: Kesa Gatame, feat. Sonny Brown
This week, we're joined by one of our most often requested guests: Sonny Brown! Sonny, also known as "that other BJJ podcast guy," is working on a kesa gatame instructional. He joins us to share core concepts on this underutilized position.
We debunk common kesa gatame misconceptions:
- "They'll just take my back"
- "They'll just bridge me over"
- "They'll just push my head into an armbar or crucifix"
- "Kesa gatame is only for big guys"
- "Once you get into kesa gatame, you’re stuck there."
Critical control points for kesa gatame:
- Keep your legs at a 90° angle to block the bridge
- Keep their near-side elbow off the mat
- Bring your opponent's chin to your chest.
- Don’t lean your head over to their far side.
Mental models discussed in this episode:
- Do What Works
https://bjjmentalmodels.com/do-what-works/ - Predictable Responses
https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/ - Theory of Alignment
https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment/ - Surface Area
https://bjjmentalmodels.com/surface-area/ - Shifting Platforms
https://bjjmentalmodels.com/shifting-platforms/ - Critical Control Points
https://bjjmentalmodels.com/critical-control-points/ - Center of Gravity
https://bjjmentalmodels.com/center-of-gravity/
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