A connected, pressure-first game plan tailored to older bodies and bad backs.
The Bottom Line
You get a calm, pressure-based top game and conservative bottom options. The focus is control, not athletic scrambles. Skip this if you want modern lapel guards or inversion-heavy attacks.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: Masters hobbyists
Skip if: You want inversion
Tech focus: Pressure Passing, Over Under, Half Guard, Closed Guard, Fundamental Submissions, Knee Cut Variations
Biggest takeaway: Control pace and posture.
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What You'll Learn
Bernardo packages a whole game for aging bodies: knee-based pressure passing on top, and simple half/closed guard on bottom. You avoid explosive scrambles and keep your spine in strong positions.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Pressure Passing
- Knee Cut Variations
- Over Under
- Half Guard
- Closed Guard
- Fundamental Submissions
Format & Level
- Instructional style: System Based, Conceptual
- Skill level: All Levels
- Format: Both
- Runtime: 2 hours and 57 minutes
- Volumes: 7
Should You Buy It?
Wait for daily deal. I saw the value of a single coherent plan when my energy and recovery are limited.
Why Bernardo Faria?
Bernardo Faria is a 5x IBJJF world champion and co-founder of BJJ Fanatics. He is famous for over-under passing, half guard, and a friendly, clear teaching style. Bernardo’s systems favor leverage over speed. He produces highly structured curriculum with live examples. His material is widely used by Masters competitors and hobbyists.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- This is exactly how I want to roll at 40+.
- Clear, beginner-friendly roadmap with safe guards and passes.
- Great details on over-under without killing my back.
- Connected plan across positions, not a random move list.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Pricey compared to smaller sets.
- Some drills feel basic if you are advanced.
- Includes takedowns I skipped due to knees.
Free Preview Lesson
Smart Alternatives
- Foundations of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu – Cheaper fundamentals set with similar philosophy. (Price: $99.00)
- Half Guard Domination 2.0 – If you mainly want bottom half. (Price: $79.00, 4 vols)
Sources & References
Video Breakdowns
Official listing: View Jiu Jitsu For Old Guys: Fundamental Game Plan on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.
