A structured four-step side control system that favors dynamic pins and elbow isolation to finish consistently.
The Bottom Line
You learn dynamic pinning, elbow separation, and submission families from side control. You see how side control links to mount and back. You will not get gi-specific grip trees.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: Concept-first learners
Skip if: You dislike long theory
Tech focus: Elbow Separation, Side Triangle, Kimura
Biggest takeaway: Dynamic pins beat static holds
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What You'll Learn
Danaher teaches a four-step approach to pinning, separating elbows, and finishing from side control. The curriculum stresses dynamic pins over static holds and connects cleanly to mount transitions. If you like detailed conceptual scaffolding with precise mechanics, this is it.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Shoulder Pressure
- Elbow Separation
- Kimura
- Side Triangle
- Juji Gatame
- North South Choke
- Mount Transitions
- Reverse Overhook
- Elbow Trap
- Dorsal Pin
Format & Level
- Instructional style: Conceptual, System Based
- Skill level: All Levels
- Format: No-Gi
- Runtime: 9 hours and 1 minute
- Volumes: 8
Should You Buy It?
Buy it now. I like the priority on elbow penetration before chasing submissions; it prevents scrambles.
Why John Danaher?
John Danaher, Renzo Gracie black belt, is widely regarded as a top coach whose systems shaped modern no-gi dominance.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Clear pinning philosophy over static holds; dynamic pressure resonates.
- Four-step method organizes side control for repeatable results.
- Details improved mount transitions off side control for many.
- Deep mechanical explanations suit analytical learners.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Slow, dense delivery; requires patience and rewatches.
- Some worry about overlap with his other New Wave sets.
Free Preview Lesson
Smart Alternatives
- Pin Escapes & Turtle Escapes (GFF) – Pairs well if you need bottom side fundamentals. (Price: $197.00)
- Systematically Attacking From Top Pins: Side Control & North South – Student perspective with rolling breakdowns. (Price: $349.00, 8 vols)
Sources & References
Video Breakdowns
Official listing: View New Wave Jiu Jitsu: Side Attacks – Building a Devastating Side Control System on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.
