BJJ Mental Models

Steve Kwan
  • 5.0 (4)
  • WRESTLING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
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.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Ep. 322: Technique Zero, feat. Marc Ste-Marie

    This week we're joined by Marc Ste-Marie! Marc is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and the father of IBJJF "Queen" Brianna Ste-Marie. In this episode, Marc explains the concept of "technique zero," or how we can teach Jiu-Jitsu quicker by reverse engineering and mastering the point of entry. Follow Marc on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kwiksub2021 Subscribe to Marc's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@marcstemarie6821 Resources discussed in this episode: The Fig...

    55 min

  2. 6 DAYS AGO

    Mini Ep. 39: Surface Area

    In this week's mini-episode we explain the concept of surface area, or how much of your body is connected to your opponent when you apply force. You can create more pressure by applying maximal force through the smallest surface area. A classic example is the "shoulder of justice" side control crossface pin. We also discuss other benefits to minimizing surface area, and other types of pressure beyond the physics definition.Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $7...

    8 min

  3. 27 JAN

    Ep. 321: Submission Series: The Woj Lock, feat. Chris Wojcik

    This week we're joined again by BJJ Mental Models sponsored athlete Chris Wojcik! In this episode, Chris breaks down the mechanics and meta relevance of his new signature move, the Woj Lock.Follow Chris on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/chrismwojcikSubscribe to Chris' newsletter, The Grappler's Diary:https://thegrapplersdiary.substack.com/Buy Chris' book of the same name on Amazon:https://amzn.to/4gc74UhBuy Woj Lock the World on BJJ Fanatics:https://bit.ly/wojlockResources discussed in t...

    1 hr

  4. 23 JAN

    Mini Ep. 38: Ratchet Control

    In this week's mini-episode we explain ratchet control, a mental model that fine-tunes rotational submissions, especially the kimura. Ratchet control occurs when you force their limb into an "L" shape and rotate it like an Allen/hex key. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE:https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintroDon't forget to check out BJJ Mental Models Premium!If you love the podcast, you'll definitely love our premium membership offerings. The podcast is truly j...

    6 min

  5. 20 JAN

    Ep. 320: The Language of Injury, feat. Scott Fritzinger

    This week we're joined by Scott Fritzinger! Scott is a BJJ black belt under Dave Camarillo and is the head instructor at Guerrilla Jiu Jitsu Academy Reno. In this episode, Scott discusses "the language of injury," or how our choice of words and delivery can change student behavior and influence the risk of injury in the gym. Follow Guerrilla Jiu Jitsu Academy Reno on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guerrillajjreno Train with Scott at Guerrilla Jiu Jitsu Academy Reno: https:...

    52 min

  6. 16 JAN

    Mini Ep. 37: Rotational Control

    In this week's mini-episode we explain rotational control, a mental model that helps us better secure positions and complete submissions. Rotational control involves either preventing your opponent from rotating their torso, or allowing them to rotate so you can follow and improve your position. Achieving rotational control usually requires you to occupy their elbow-knee space along their torso, or restrict the movement of their far arm/leg so they can't spin. Get our Intro to Me...

    10 min

  7. 13 JAN

    Ep. 319: 4 Pillars of Successful Gyms, feat. Eliot Marshall

    This week we're joined again by Eliot Marshall! Eliot is a BJJ black belt, retired UFC fighter, and owner of Easton Training Center in Colorado. In this episode, Eliot explains the 4 elements that every successful Jiu-Jitsu gym needs to nail: sales, marketing, product, and culture. Follow Eliot on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/firemarshall205Train at Easton Training Center in Colorado:https://eastonbjj.com/Grow your BJJ gym with Easton Online:https://www.easton.online/Mental...

    1h 15m

  8. 9 JAN

    Mini Ep. 36: Waypoints

    In this week's mini-episode we explain waypoints, also known as "pitstops." Waypoints are positions of power where you are particularly well-trained, and feel comfortable that you can outgun your opponent due to experience and skill within the position. Waypoints aren't necessarily the common point-scoring positions, but can instead be "positions within positions" that occur along the way. Examples of common waypoints include the split squat, double unders, and topside quart...

    7 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Steve Kwan
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    378
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 BJJ Mental Models
  • Show Website
    BJJ Mental Models

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