What we're learning in week 7 at Gracie Barra Saddle Rock
Week 7 at Gracie Barra Saddle Rock – Practicing Mindfulness in Jiu-Jitsu
As we move into Week 7 of the Gracie Barra Fundamentals curriculum, students at Gracie Barra Saddle Rock will explore a powerful theme: Mindfulness in Jiu-Jitsu. In every class and at every belt level, the ability to stay present and aware can greatly impact one’s growth—on the mat and beyond.
Whether a student is executing a takedown or sitting in stillness before class, being mindful shapes how we react, respond, and learn. This value will be reflected in each class across all age groups this week.
Word of the Week: Mindfulness
Mindfulness in Jiu-Jitsu involves:
Being fully aware of your body, breath, and movement
Observing your training partner without judgment
Responding instead of reacting under pressure
Remaining calm and focused in both victory and challenge
Students are guided to slow down, breathe intentionally, and apply technique with purpose. These habits are built over time—and reinforced through each weekly curriculum.
Light Blue Classes: Tiny Champions (3–4) & Little Champions 1 (5–6)
Our youngest athletes are introduced to the foundation of mindfulness in Jiu-Jitsu through structure, play, and routine.
Class A
Self-Defense: Wrist Grab Escape 1 + Wrist Grab Escape 2
Ground Technique: Guard Top – Strong Posture + Opening the Guard by Walking Back
Class B
Stand-Up Technique: Single Leg Takedown Without Grips
Ground Technique: Guard Top – Strong Posture + Opening the Guard by Walking Back
Through repetition and guided movement, students are gently taught to focus their attention and stay engaged—building discipline without pressure.
Orange Classes: Little Champions 2 (7–9) & Juniors (10–13)
Older kids are ready to take mindfulness deeper by focusing on intention during techniques and transitions.
Class A
Self-Defense: Wrist Grab Escape 1 + Wrist Grab Escape 2
Ground Technique: Guard Top – Strong Posture + Opening the Guard by Walking Back
Class B
Stand-Up Technique: Single Leg Takedown Without Grips
Ground Technique: Guard Top – Strong Posture + Opening the Guard by Walking Back
Instructors will encourage students to pause before reacting, ask questions, and notice how they feel in both victory and challenge. This mental habit strengthens their physical game as well.
Dark Blue Classes: Adults & Teens Fundamentals (GB1)
This week’s adult curriculum is centered around control and composure. By focusing on mindfulness in Jiu-Jitsu, students will gain new awareness around how they move, breathe, and flow from position to position.
Class A
Self-Defense (Strike): Distance Management with the Arm + Front Push Kick + Body Lock Takedown + Side mount Control
Sport Jiu-Jitsu:
Open the Guard on the Knees + Over the Leg Guard Pass
Half Guard Pass Using Hook + Hip Elevation + Transition to Mount
GB1 Drill: Open Guard → Guard Pass → Side mount (Taking Turns)
Class B
Self-Defense (Strike): Jab-Cross + Distance Management + Double Leg Takedown
Sport Jiu-Jitsu:
Spider Guard Bull-Fight Pass (Turning the Wheel) + Side mount
Spider Guard Pass with Hips Forward + Side mount Control
GB1 Drill: Spider Guard Pass → Side mount (Taking Turns)
Specific Training: Guard
GB1 Talking Point: The GB Student
By practicing mindfulness in Jiu-Jitsu, adults and teens will sharpen their reactions and refine their emotional control in live rolls.
Mindfulness Begins on the Mat
Mindfulness isn’t only about stillness; it’s about being present. In Jiu-Jitsu, this presence helps us flow better, learn faster, and connect deeper with the art. Mindfulness in Jiu-Jitsu is not only trained—it is lived.
Now is a great time to step on the mat and start your journey.
New students can sign up for a 14-day free trial
At Gracie Barra Saddle Rock, we teach more than just Jiu-Jitsu. We teach kids, teens, and adults how to live with integrity, train with purpose, and grow with every class.
Start your journey today — visit www.gbsaddlerock.com to schedule a free trial!
