In a recent post, John Danaher emphasized one of the most overlooked yet decisive elements in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu – the grip.
According to the legendary coach, every exchange on the mat begins with how you make contact:
Every grappling engagement begins with grip.
How you grip your opponent will affect the rest of that engagement.
He explained that gripping isn’t just a mechanical action, it’s also psychological and strategic:
When you grip with power and authority it will immediately throw your opponent into a cautious and defensive demeanor.
When you grip naively and weakly you’re setting yourself up to be immediately countered.
Danaher’s central message is that every grip must have purpose.
Simply reaching out without a clear plan – without knowing why you’re gripping and what you want to achieve – invites disaster against a skilled opponent:
Have an idea of what you want to accomplish and grip accordingly.
His insight captures a broader truth about grappling and strategy itself – success isn’t only about skill itself, but about intent and direction:
Know what you want to do and know how best to grip to achieve that aim.
Follow this approach and the opening of every engagement will generally go your way.
View this post on Instagram
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide for Calmly Beating Bigger, Younger Opponents
💥 What if slowing down was the fastest way to win?
💭 Tired of Getting Smashed by Younger, Stronger Grapplers?
It’s not your age. It’s your strategy.
If you’re a passionate grappler over 35 who’s sick of getting outpaced, outmuscled, or out-cardio’d by opponents half your age — this 120 page e-book was made for you.
🔓 Unlock the Power of Sloth Jiu-Jitsu:
Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu
Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting? Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35 who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.
Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
