Week 9 at Gracie Barra: Standing Strike- Transitions To The Guard - Sacrifice Throws - Guard
Week 9 at Gracie Barra Saddle Rock – Centering on Safety in Jiu-Jitsu
At Gracie Barra Saddle Rock, we believe that progress begins with protection. As we head into Week 9 of the Gracie Barra Fundamentals curriculum, the focus shifts to one of the most essential principles in martial arts: Safety.
A safe training environment not only builds trust between students and instructors but also creates the foundation for long-term success. This week, lessons are designed to highlight how safety is woven into every stance, grip, and movement—ensuring that students grow with confidence and awareness on and off the mats.
Tiny Champions & Little Champions 1 (Ages 3–6) – Light Blue Curriculum
In our youngest programs, safety will be introduced through structured drills and playful repetition. While their movements are still being developed, their understanding of boundaries, control, and awareness will be gently guided by our instructors.
Class A:
Self Defense: Front Bear Hug Escape
Ground Technique: Guard Bottom – Sweep and Transition to Back
Specific Training: Guard Retention and Positional Awareness
Class B:
Stand-Up Technique: Basic Judo Grips + Off-Balancing Drill
Ground Technique: Guard Bottom – Sweep and Transition to Back
Specific Training: Partner Drills for Movement Safety
Little Champions 2 & Juniors (Ages 7–13) – Orange Curriculum
In Week 9, Little Champions 2 and Juniors will practice control, space management, and proper technique execution—all with safety as the focus. They will be reminded that power must always be paired with responsibility. Learning how to protect themselves, as well as their partners, will be emphasized in every drill.
Class A:
Self Defense: Front Bear Hug Escape Over Arms + Basic Hip Throw
Ground Technique: Guard Bottom – Sweeps & Submissions (Instructor's Choice)
Specific Training: Awareness in Guard Position and Transitions
Class B:
Stand-Up Technique: Judo Grips + Inside Hook Takedown
Ground Technique: Guard Bottom – Sweeps & Submissions (Instructor's Choice)
Specific Training: Positional Control without Force
Adults & Teens Fundamentals – Dark Blue Curriculum
For our adult and teen students, Week 9 of the Gracie Barra Fundamentals is built to reinforce the importance of precision, safety, and controlled intensity. Both self-defense and sport Jiu-Jitsu scenarios will be used to demonstrate that proper technique often prevents injury—for both partners.
Class A:
Self-Defense: Blocking Punches from Turtle + Guard Recovery
Sport Jiu-Jitsu: Pendulum Sweep + Straight Armbar from Closed Guard
GB1 Drill: Pendulum Sweep → Mount → Knee-Elbow Escape
Specific Training: Timing-Based Guard Recovery
GB1 Topic: The GB Method and Partner Safety
Class B:
Self-Defense: Block from Knee on Belly → Turtle Transition → Guard Recovery
Sport Jiu-Jitsu: Back Take from Closed Guard + Triangle Choke Setup
GB1 Drill: Closed Guard Recovery from Side Mount + Submission Entry
Specific Training: Guard Strategy Under Pressure
GB1 Topic: The Role of Safety in Jiu-Jitsu Longevity
Why Safety Is the Starting Point for Success
In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, technical growth relies on trust. Students must know that they are in a safe environment in order to push themselves and explore their potential. That’s why, during Week 9 of the Gracie Barra Fundamentals curriculum, we are placing intentional focus on Safety—in mindset, technique, and training etiquette.
A culture of safety protects bodies, builds character, and allows students to train with consistency. By practicing responsibly, students don’t just avoid injury—they build a deeper connection to the art itself.
Let’s train with control, support each other, and remember: safety is the strongest foundation of all.
See you on the mats!
OSS!
Gracie Barra Saddle Rock Jiu-Jitsu
📍 6770 S Liverpool St Unit B, Aurora, CO 80016
📧 [email protected]
📞 (720)551-6449
