Start Here (Eliot Marshall) – In-Depth Review

A modern, structured fundamentals path from a respected coach for your first year.

The Bottom Line

You get a clean layout that coaches can mirror and students can follow. The emphasis is on core positions, safe habits, and repeatable drills. If you want dense theory, pair it with a concept-heavy title.

⚡️ Quick facts

Best for: Structure seekers

Skip if: You dislike planned drills

Tech focus: Takedown Basics, Escapes, Guard Retention, Guard Passing, Back Control

Biggest takeaway: Clarity reduces beginner confusion.

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What You'll Learn

Built by a veteran coach with a reputation for well-run beginner programs, this course maps a fundamentals-first arc you can teach or self-study.

It is recent, structured, and designed to reduce confusion in months one to twelve.

Primary Techniques You'll Drill

  • Takedown Basics
  • Posture
  • Escapes
  • Guard Retention
  • Guard Passing
  • Back Control
  • Submissions

Format & Level

  • Instructional style: System Based, Drill Heavy, Conceptual
  • Skill level: Beginner
  • Format: Both
  • Runtime: 5 hours and 22 minutes
  • Volumes: 8
  • Released: 2024

Should You Buy It?

Wait for daily deal. I see best results when beginners follow one cohesive plan for 12 weeks straight.

Why Eliot Marshall?

Eliot Marshall is a BJJ black belt under Amal Easton and a former UFC athlete. He co-leads one of the most systemized academy networks in Colorado. Students praise his clear coaching voice and supportive culture. His curriculum reflects that ethos: organized, safety-minded, and progressive. Expect a practical classroom feel aligned with fundamentals.

Community feedback

Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.

😍 Why People Love It

  • Easton programs get frequent praise for structure and beginner outcomes.
  • Multiple users cite Eliot as a helpful, approachable coach figure.
  • Community notes he gives back and engages positively with students.

🤔 Common Criticisms

  • Some comments suggest Easton restricts early rolling, which not everyone likes.

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Sources & References

Video Breakdowns

Official listing: View Start Here: A Complete Fundamentals Curriculum on BJJ Fanatics

Additional References

Your next step

You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.

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