Win the stand-up by winning grips, then apply BJJ-safe trips and throws.
The Bottom Line
You learn how to establish, break, and recover grips with footwork tied in. Drills build timing for trips you can land safely. It is gi-heavy with modest ground chaining.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: Grip-challenged white to blue
Skip if: You train only no-gi
Tech focus: Grip Fighting, Kuzushi, Kouchi Gari
Biggest takeaway: Grip, move, then throw
📋 Jump to a section (Click to expand)
What You'll Learn
A focused course from a 6th-degree BJJ black belt and 4th-degree judoka on how to win the first battle: grips and movement. It teaches grip recovery, off-balancing, footwork, and BJJ-safe throw choices. Great if you keep losing the collar-sleeve war.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Grip Fighting
- Kuzushi
- Footwork Drills
- Kouchi Gari
- Tomoe Nage
- Kuchiki Taoshi
Format & Level
- Instructional style: Conceptual, Drill Heavy, System Based
- Skill level: All Levels
- Format: Gi
- Runtime: 1 hour and 27 minutes
- Volumes: 3
Should You Buy It?
Wait for daily deal. I moved this up because better grips raise every takedown percentage, and this course is dedicated to that skill.
Why Fernando Yamasaki?
Fernando Yamasaki is a 6th-degree BJJ black belt and 4th-degree judoka from a renowned lineage, with decades of cross-training teaching experience.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Recommended by judoka on r/bjj as a solid judo-for-BJJ pick.
- Easy movement drills that make grips click for white belts.
- Throw selections feel safe for BJJ landings.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Mostly gi-based; limited no-gi examples.
- Less depth on follow-up pins or passes.
- Old-school style that may feel slower paced.
Smart Alternatives
- Judo for Jiu Jitsu – Another gi-first curriculum with more throw variety. (Price: $79.00, 2 vols)
- The Judo Academy – If you want a more complete stand-up plus ground plan. (Price: $79.00, 4 vols)
Sources & References
Official listing: View Judo Gripping Systems For BJJ on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.
