A practical gi stand-up plan built on gripping and kuzushi.
The Bottom Line
Learn the grips that control tempo, the kuzushi that opens lanes, and the throws that score without exposing your neck. It is a framework you can drill and apply fast. If you need reliable two-pointers in IBJJF, start here.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: Gi competitors
Skip if: You only train no-gi
Tech focus: Gripping, Kuzushi, Osoto Gari, Seoi Nage, Foot Sweeps, Uchikomi Drills, Grip Fighting
Biggest takeaway: Win grips, win stand-up.
📋 Jump to a section (Click to expand)
What You'll Learn
Olympic medalist Travis Stevens and coach Jimmy Pedro break down gripping, kuzushi, and high-percentage throws tailored to BJJ. The focus is entries that avoid stalling or guillotine traps.
You get a repeatable stand-up plan for gi tournaments and a clear way to train reps through uchikomi and live integration.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Gripping
- Kuzushi
- Osoto Gari
- Seoi Nage
- Foot Sweeps
- Collar Drags
- Snap Downs
- Uchikomi Drills
- Grip Fighting
- Takedown Linking
Format & Level
- Instructional style: System Based, Drill Heavy
- Skill level: All Levels
- Format: Gi
Should You Buy It?
Wait for daily deal. I scored more collar-drag and foot-sweep points after committing to grip objectives before any throw selection.
Why Jimmy Pedro & Travis Stevens?
Travis Stevens is an Olympic silver medalist in judo and BJJ black belt, known for clear instruction on gripping and throws for BJJ. Jimmy Pedro is a two-time Olympic bronze medalist and legendary coach. Their collaboration adapts judo mechanics to common BJJ reactions and rule constraints, helping athletes earn cleaner takedowns.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Great presentation on gripping and off-balancing for gi BJJ.
- Explains how to train uchikomi and integrate into sparring.
- Widely recommended starter for BJJ stand-up in the gi.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Not ideal for total beginners without a coach on throws.
- Some wanted deeper detail on what makes each throw work.
Smart Alternatives
- The Ultimate Takedown Series Vol. 1: Gripping & Kuzushi, More depth on gripping trees and entries. (Price: $149.00)
- No Gi Judo For Grapplers, If you compete no-gi but like judo-style ties.
Sources & References
Official listing: View The Takedown Blueprint on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.
