Week 16 at Gracie Barra Saddle Rock – Mastering Mount Escapes & Embracing Service
Welcome to Week 16 of the Gracie Barra Fundamentals Curriculum
This week at Gracie Barra Saddle Rock, our students are diving deep into the art of escaping from mount and knee-on-belly positions, while continuing to build strong foundational movements and values. Our Word of the Week is “Service”, reminding us that true martial artists strive not just for personal growth, but also to serve their teammates, families, and communities.
Tiny Champions & Little Champions 1 (Ages 3–6)
Focus:
Self-Defense: Front break fall, rocking chair, and technical lift
Ground Technique: Mount escape #2 – Recovering the guard
Specific Training: Mount or knee on belly positional sparring
These foundational techniques help our youngest martial artists learn how to fall safely, build momentum for reversals, and regain control from a tough spot. The emphasis on service encourages these little ones to be helpful and kind both on and off the mat.
Little Champions 2 & Juniors (Ages 7–13)
Focus:
Stand-Up Technique: Double leg takedown with grips
Ground Technique: Instructor's choice – Escapes from mount or knee on belly
Specific Training: Positional training from mount and knee-on-belly
Our older kids continue to develop more assertive and effective takedown skills, while reinforcing guard recovery and positional awareness. This week, coaches have the freedom to choose their favorite escape methods to challenge students and keep learning fresh. The value of service encourages students to support their training partners and take initiative in helping newer students feel welcome.
Adults & Teens Fundamentals (GB1 Program)
Focus:
Self-Defense (Class A): Escape from front bear hug under the arms + grip breaks + outside hook takedown
Self-Defense (Class B): Rear bear hug escape over the arms + knee on belly escape + turning to open guard
Sport Jiu-Jitsu: Mount escapes using bridge and elbow techniques + recovery to closed or open guard
GB1 Drill: Open guard entries, side control transitions, and positional escapes
Specific Training: Mount and knee-on-belly scenarios
Adults and teens will sharpen their self-defense instincts with bear hug escapes and continue their development of technical ground escapes. The recurring theme across all classes is regaining control from dominant positions, which builds both confidence and resilience. The word “Service” resonates especially well with our GB1 students, as many of them lead by example during class and serve as mentors to younger teammates.
Final Thoughts: A Week Built on Skill & Service
At Gracie Barra Saddle Rock, Jiu-Jitsu is more than just techniques and drills — it’s about shaping character. This week’s focus on escaping mount and knee-on-belly positions teaches us to stay calm under pressure and to reverse adversity into opportunity. And with “Service” as our guiding value, we remind our students that greatness comes from giving, helping, and contributing to something larger than themselves.
We’re proud of everyone on the mats this week. Let’s keep training hard, supporting each other, and finding new ways to serve!
