A structured bottom 50 50 game with gi-friendly controls and clear reactions.
The Bottom Line
You learn when to sweep, bolo, or back take from bottom 50 50. You will use lapels and weight shifts to trigger attacks. You will not get deep heel hook mechanics.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: gi guard players
Skip if: you avoid the gi
Tech focus: Lapel 50/50, Matrix, Waiter X
Biggest takeaway: Read weight before attacking
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What You'll Learn
Movement Art instructors Salles and Maira teach a bottom 50 50 framework that reads top player weight distribution and counters with back takes, bolos, or footlocks.
Gi details like lapel control are integrated alongside neutral 50 50 strategies.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- 50/50
- Lapel 50/50
- Matrix
- Baby Bolo
- Technical Stand Up
- Waiter X
- Twisting Foot Lock
- Armbar
- 70 30
- Weight Distribution
Format & Level
- Instructional style: System Based
- Skill level: All Levels
- Format: Gi
- Runtime: 2 hours and 43 minutes
- Volumes: 4
Should You Buy It?
Wait for daily deal. I would drill the neutral 50 50 to inside bolo chain before adding lapel layers.
Why Nick Salles and Danny Maira?
Both are Mikey Musumeci black belts and co-founders of Movement Art Academy. They compete actively and teach structured, concept led systems.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Great explanations of when to back take vs sweep.
- Useful lapel options for gi players.
- Weight distribution cues changed my timing.
- Clear path from neutral 50 50 to offense.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Heavy gi focus may not suit pure no gi.
- Less finishing depth than leg lock specific sets.
- Production is simple and utilitarian.
Smart Alternatives
- Modern 50/50 Fundamentals: Passing – Pairs with this course to complete top and bottom game.
- No Gi Open Guard Volume 2: DLR & Waiter – Feeds 50 50 entries from DLR for no gi.
Sources & References
Official listing: View Modern 50/50 Fundamentals: Guard on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.
