Here at Nova Gyms we believe it’s important to prepare our BJJ students to be proficient on their feet as well as on the ground. Nova Gyms would like to share with you a couple of Uchikomi (step-in) drills and grip breaking strategies that you may like to incorporate into your training.
Grip Breaking Strategies
The Y grip break. This is a basic strategy that can be effective at removing a strong grip on the sleeve. In this video we are using the strategy to remove a lapel grip. However, the Y grip break is much more effective at removing a sleeve grip rather than a lapel grip. It is a perfect strategy to use against a BJJ practitioner because of the way he/she grabs/grips the very end of the Gi sleeve. Removing a Judoka’s grip at the elbow and/or lapel with the Y strategy is not the best option.
The Elbow Swim grip break. This strategy is a far superior to the Y grip break when dealing with a strong lapel grip. Warning: This grip break can cause injury to your opponent’s wrist and/or fingers if he/she continues to hold on to the lapel. It is important not to injure your training partner(s). It is advised that you let your trainer partner know to let go of the grip when your practicing this grip break.
Uchikomi (Judo Step in)
The Hamburger Drill. This drill will give your students a different way to practice their throwing technique and positioning, as they go from one training partner to the next. You will need three people to do this drill. Each of the three students will rotate throughout the drill. In addition to working on Judo techniques student will also be improving their cardio and stamina.
Power Uchikomi drill. This drill allows students to use all of their explosive energy without completed the throw each time. During this drill students will recognize/feel improper kuzushi, improper foot placement etc. This drill is very dynamic. It provides students a great way to work on the first two parts of a Judo throw Kuzushi (off balancing) & Tsukuri (entry) without the Kake (throw). This drill can be used to practice many types of throws. The way that it was demonstrated in the video, was for a forward throw.