A researched, evidence-backed ranking of Kenta Iwamoto instructionals on BJJ Fanatics, with r/bjj sentiment, use cases, and clear buy recommendations.
Samurai Foot Sweeps & Leg Trips
A complete, low impact takedown system that turns kazushi and timing into effortless trips you can chain straight into passes.
Ninja Escapes
A calm, step by step roadmap for back and turtle escapes that works under real pressure.
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🥋 #1 Samurai Foot Sweeps & Leg Trips by Kenta Iwamoto
Instructor: Kenta Iwamoto
Style: System Based, Conceptual, Drill Heavy
Best for: All Levels
Format: Both
Runtime: 1 hour and 23 minutes
Volumes: 5
Biggest takeaway: Timing beats strength for takedowns.
Techniques: Kouchi Gari, Kosoto Gari, Ouchi Gari, Uchimata, Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi, Grip Fighting, Kazushi
- Mastering No Gi Takedowns by Travis Stevens – Focuses on no gi foot sweeps and judo adaptations.
- New Wave Foot Sweeps For Lazy People by Satoshi Ishii – Fresh 2025 release with efficiency first approach.
- No Gi Judo: Foot Sweeps and Trips by Shintaro Higashi – Practical no gi foot sweep concepts from a seasoned judoka.
If your stand up feels like a coin toss, this course gives you structure. Iwamoto shows how to create off balance, win grips, and flow between kouchi, kosoto, and ouchi without muscling. You will not learn big risky throws here, but you will add reliable entries that work in gi or no gi and do not drain your gas tank.
✅ Pros
- Clear standing system that connects grips, kazushi, and finishes.
- Includes no gi adaptations that translate to modern rules.
- Volumes are organized by scenarios, making drilling simple.
⚠️ Cons
- Not for people who want double legs or blast shots.
- Requires partner reps to internalize timing and feel.
- Limited groundwork beyond immediate transitions after trips.
💡 I ranked this first because it solves the hardest part of BJJ for many people, getting the fight to the mat safely. Recommendation: Buy it now.
🥋 #2 Ninja Escapes by Kenta Iwamoto
Instructor: Kenta Iwamoto
Style: System Based, Conceptual
Best for: All Levels
Format: Both
Runtime: 1 hour and 17 minutes
Volumes: 3
Biggest takeaway: Have a calm escape protocol.
Techniques: Back Escape, Body Triangle, Turtle Escape, Granby Roll, Hip Sit, Quick Heist, Whizzer
- Pin Escapes & Turtle Escapes by John Danaher – Broader fundamentals with deep positional theory.
- Only Way Out: Front Headlock and Turtle Escapes by Brian Glick – Danaher lineage approach focused on front headlock and turtle.
- Fundamentals of BJJ Escapes Gi & No Gi by Lachlan Giles – Great overview of core escape mechanics across positions.
If back control terrifies you, this system gives you immediate actions. The body triangle sequences and turtle stand ups are laid out clearly with side switching cues. You will not find advanced leg entanglement counters here, but you will stop panicking and start exiting reliably.
✅ Pros
- Volume structure maps cleanly to common back and turtle problems.
- Great for building confidence to open up your offense.
- Accessible to beginners while still sharpening advanced defense.
⚠️ Cons
- Less focus on counter submissions after the escape.
- Not a comprehensive bottom system outside back and turtle.
- Some sequences need mat time to feel smooth.
💡 I value how this course teaches you to breathe, frame, and switch sides instead of fighting grips in panic. Recommendation: Wait for daily deal.
How we ranked these Kenta Iwamoto instructionals
Rankings prioritize r/bjj reception, how complete the system feels, and usefulness for typical hobbyist problems. We scored structure, specificity of scenarios, and how quickly you can apply lessons live. Tie breakers included recency and whether the approach is distinct from other popular options.
What to buy first if you are unsure
If you compete or want safer takedowns, start with Samurai Foot Sweeps & Leg Trips. If survivability is your main gap, start with Ninja Escapes. You can add the other later without overlap.
Do these work for gi and no gi
Yes. Foot sweeps are taught with clinch and collar tie entries, not only sleeves. Ninja Escapes covers body triangle and turtle, which appear in both formats. Expect to tweak grips, not concepts.
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