Melissa starts the class with a review of base and posture in the closed guard. Then, Melissa, Chris and Jim go over some of the details to defending the choke in the closed guard. They also cover guard arm lock, triangle, and kimura defense in detail. Enjoy!
We were fortunate to have Erik teach a class at our garage right before his black belt promotion in April of 2019. Erik showed us some great drills for shoulder health and went on to teach a sweep from the closed guard. Erik uses the same collar control he taught in the closed guard to show a couple of take down options. You can find Erik at Take Down Nation in Shiloh, Virginia.
Erik starts Part 2 by covering the details of obtaining the octopus position from top half guard into a back take. Next, Erik uses the “pretzel bolo” to take the back which is a variation of the Berimbolo. He continues to explain the Berimbolo from the smash pass. For conventional pathways to the back, Erik secures back control from the arm triangle choke and north south position. He then goes over the details of his preferred back control and primary offensive move, the rear naked choke. Erik instructs many details of obtaining the RNC and countering counter moves. There are many great tips in this instructional! Enjoy.
Erik covers some classic and progressive ways to get to the back. The series starts on the feet with a transition to front head lock, snap down and attack of the turtle position. The sequence progresses to a detailed instruction of quarter control to back take. The second sequence starts with z guard and half guard. Erik uses the arm attack defense to take the back. Next, Erik goes through the intricacies that make up the octopus hook obtained from half guard into a back take. From side control, the octopus hook allows a base to be built and possibilities open up. Stay tuned for Episode 2 coming soon.
Eddie walks us through a detailed explanation of a lapel wrap sweep and back take starting in the half guard position. Each technique ends with submission options. Eddie also covers a lapel wrap choke option from the closed guard.
In this video, Melissa introduces the Jiu Jitsu version of the Tomoe nage sweep. Chris, Dylan, and Tobin point out additional details to the take down. A nice thing about this take down is, if you screw up, you end up in your guard. Dylan then covers the Arm Spin and Melissa demonstrates the flying de la riva. Tactical guard pulls are great to try in sport matches when the time is ticking.
Chris’ favorite wrestling take down for gi competition is the low single leg. Chris explains the details of the move as well as the answers to the counters and how the details differ when wearing a gi. As always, we cover a think street, train sport and practice art approach. Stay tuned for more Melissa’s Fun House videos coming soon.
Out of The Edge Martial Arts Academy in New Jersey, Rich reviews some passes of the traditional half guard position. Always controlling the hip and the head, he flattens his partner out and uses pressure to transition to a knee slice or obtain mount. Rich covers some of his favorite variations on this fundamental half guard pass. He addresses some of the common answers to the pass counters as well as the back step pass. We hope you enjoy this detail oriented approach to passing half guard!
Contact Rich @Richsab on Instagram or richsab.com and theedgemma.com
In this episode, with the help of Seth, Melissa, Jim, and Chris go over many details of the grandfather of all throws, the fundamental hip throw. They cover some real world applications for this concept. Melissa then delves into a detailed instructional on Tani-otoshi or the Valley Drop which is her personal favorite take down. The Valley Drop is a great option for smaller people as you do not have to load your opponents weight on top of you and can use connection and gravity to get them to the ground. Chris then reviews the 3 counters to a hip throw. Leave a comment below!
Unleash your BJJ potential with the latest episode of Melissa's Funhouse! Dive into advanced techniques with Melissa as she masterfully demonstrates single-leg takedowns and underhook strategies. Learn to dominate with precise head and leg positioning, enhanced by Melissa's unique insights and gripping techniques. Perfect for practitioners eager to elevate their game, this video promises not just skill enhancement but a strategic edge.
Before Melissa gets into take downs, she always reviews proper technical break falls to the rear and side for safety. She covers drills to control the hips and set up take downs such as the basic arm drag, the fundamental body lock, and pummeling for wrestling. Try these drills to help improve your control in the stand up battle. Many of the same principles are applied later in the ground game. Stayed tuned!
Melissa covers the 3 levels of base: Standing, combat base and two knees down. She then moves into a grip break review and grip breaks to offensive positions. Melissa and Tobin then explain some standing choke options. The class ends with collar control and connection from the standing position. We hope you are entertained and learn something too!!
Tobin covers a guard pass from the over passing range by demonstrating the "Bonsai Pass." Through the principles of hip control, base, grips and connection, he explains a controlled set up for the pass in detail. Thanks for watching.
Utilizing a technical stand up from an intermediate distance in the De la Riva guard, Tobin demonstrates a sweep into a tight knee slice pass. Tobin also covers a variation of the sweep based on the opponent sitting back. Thanks for watching!
In this video, Chhi’ covers setting up the Kesa from an attempted knee on belly baseball bat choke as well as transitioning to Kesa from side control. He explains pressure as a technical development through control and attempted submissions.
Learn how technique and position create pressure through use of the Kesa Gatame. Chhi’ explains the position, the application of pressure, preventing the escape, and a sequence of submissions from the position. Don’t miss Tobin’s commentary at the end.
Meet Hamid, a US National Level Judo Coach, training in Judo since 1990 as well as a Jiu Jitsu brown belt with Combat Base. In this instructional, Hamid covers how to have a plan for gripping, protect your lapels and sleeves, and shut down your opponent’s attacking hand. He also covers two throws: one from the Russian Tie and another from the c grip. Enjoy!
Get a bird’s eye view of a private instructional held in the Combat Base Redondo Beach Garage. This video covers holding and regaining posture in the closed guard, using a mobile tripod base, monitoring for strikes in the closed guard and the basics of 3’s as a learning tool. Enjoy!
In this seminar held at Excel Jiu Jitsu in Oceanside, California, Chris demonstrates key principles of standing techniques, covering details on hip control, grips, stance, and transitions to body locks. He also provides instruction on a basic hip throw, a counter to the hip throw, and collapsing takedown options.
During a virtual private lesson, Chris instructs the back take by breaking posture and controlling the hips. The principles of base and posture are explored as well as the evolution of Jiu jitsu.
During this 2016 seminar in Frankfurt Germany, Melissa goes over various ways to drill an armbar from the guard position including climbing, swinging, cross clamp, and flash. There are many fine points and details in this video to help improve your control and allow you to better set up and finish the armbar.
During the November 2022 Seminar in Jakarta, Indonesia, Chris instructs base and posture for a street, sport and art applicable stance. Many principles are revealed in this seminar including connecting hips to grips, keeping your hands up, entry to clinch, owning the hips and transitioning to the hip throw. He explains the concept of the collapsing takedown which is especially good for the aging athlete. Trust your hips!!
Ever wondered what you should do if you are attacked with a knife? Combat Base black belt Jerry Wetzel is a knife defense expert and founder of Red Zone Threat Management Systems. In this video, Jerry introduces some basics of knife defense from standing and the ground. You'll learn how to disarm someone who has a knife safely. The instruction is geared toward the jiu-jitsu practitioner. For more, check out the Red Zone website.
In this video, Chris Haueter shares his knowledge on how to concentrate on a single point to control your opponent. By isolating a single joint or area, you can immobilize your opponent and open up opportunities to pass their guard, sweep, or gain the upper hand.
Looking to keep your opponent from passing your guard? BJJ Black Belt Melissa Haueter has got you covered with her signature "L Principle". This drilling video is perfect for beginners or black belts alike, this simple principle will help keep your opponent frustrated when attempting to pass. So whether you're just starting out or looking to add another tool to your arsenal, be sure to check out this video.
Continuing his seminar across the pond, Chris breaks down his strategies and techniques when your opponent is in your closed guard. He covers breaking your opponent down, keeping them from standing up, and don't forget your ABC's (Always Be Choking)!
In this video of his seminar series, Chris covers the three main passing postures in BJJ and how to control your opponent's hands, head, and hips. He also includes additional closed guard theory. This is essential information for any BJJ practitioner, so be sure to check it out!
If you're looking to up your BJJ game, look no further. Chris Haueter is known for his attention to detail, and in this video, he shares some of the little tricks that have helped him escape even the peskiest opponents' triangle or rubber guard. You won't want to miss these tips - so watch now!
Mitch Langman, head instructor at Dark Carnival, shows how he sets up and finishes a variety of lapel chokes including how to switch to different techniques/grips when your opponent defends. If you're a fan of lapel chokes, and even if you're not, you won't want to miss this one!
In part two of his seminar on bent arm attacks, Chris continues his instruction on how to attack your opponent's arms. This video focuses explicitly on the americana.
In this video, Melissa shows a variety of techniques based on the "hook & vine" guard. You'll start by learning a few basic drills to get comfortable in the position, then you'll learn sweeps, transitions, defenses and even an attacking guard pull. This is a perfect addition to almost anyone's game. Don't miss out!
Join Melissa Haueter for the perfect workout for those who want to lose weight and build muscle at the same time! This full-body, high intensity interval training (HIIT) routine will burn calories while giving you that strong foundation of strength. No equipment required!
In part two of his seminar on bent arm attacks, Chris continues his series on attacks on your opponent's arms. This video focuses explicitly on kimura details while your opponent is in your closed guard.
Watch the premier episode of our new Seminar Series. Bent arm attacks are a great technique to add to your arsenal and can be used both offensively and defensively. Chris provides a master class on how to apply bent arm attacks and also includes some of the finer points on the body mechanics that make these techniques work.
After seeing his calm, cool, and collected demeanor Mark Quesada wants to know how Chhi’mèd Künzang gets mentally prepared for competition.
Combat Base Visalia first degree black belt Kayti Quesada shares her details and secrets for superior connection and awareness drilling. This video is perfect for those looking to learn how to take space away from their opponents while on top.
First degree black belt Mark Quesada shares his concepts and secrets to winning the unwinnable against an opponent who may be younger, stronger, or faster.
In this video, Melissa covers a wide variety of side control hold downs, attacks, and escapes. She also shares one of her all-time favorite submission transitions from top side control to a very tight arm bar.
What is the defining characteristic of Brazilian jiu jitsu that separates it from other martial arts? Chris and Melissa break down their views on what makes BJJ unique.
Join Melissa Haueter in the Combat Base Club series as she breaks down the dynamics of the "Knee on Belly Hold-Down". Dive deep into the mechanics of maintaining the correct posture, initiating choke holds, and transitioning seamlessly between attacks. But wait, there's more! Melissa doesn't just show you how to control, she also reveals escape tactics from this dominant position. Ready to add more layers to your BJJ game? This video is your next stop!
The Combat Base Club BJJ Black Belt Chhi'mèd Künzang shares his vast knowledge of body mechanics and martial arts concepts that can apply to a variety of jiu-jitsu techniques. He also teaches us subtle tricks on how best execute wrist locks, which will surely give your opponents pause on the mat!
Third degree BJJ black belt, karate black belt, and expert catch wrestler Sam Kressin shares his secrets on the setup, entry, and finish of a deadly banana split.
Cowboy Jiu Jitsu black belt Brian Moody demonstrates three different ways that can get an opponent off balance with the "monkey swing" ankle pick series. He shows the correct setup for an ankle pick and then goes on explain different variations that can be used when it fails. A great addition to anyone's takedown arsenal.
Warrior Fitness Center Founder and Head Instructor Benjamin Westrich demonstrates the cloth grip version of the arm drag. In this video you'll learn effective ways to properly setup and execute the arm drag, as well as how to transition the position into a single leg and takedown.
In this video Melissa continues the lessons on butterfly guard, showing the setup, details on working the position, and various options to advance your position with your opponent.
Dive deeper into the closed guard with Melissa Haueter and master the nuances of this essential position. From refining your base to effectively transferring weight onto your opponent's abdomen, Melissa guides you through drills, defenses, and techniques. Elevate your game with her favorite cross climb Armbar and unravel the mysteries of the four pronged attack—choke, lock, sweep, and the back take. Stay sharp and responsive, learning how to prevent, defend, and counterattack with precision. Perfect for those looking to amplify their closed guard prowess!
Mike Dytri asks our most important question yet! What took so long to start this club?
Jason from New World Jiu Jitsu wants to know the best way to defend the knee on belly position in MMA.
Combat Base Brown belt Scott Atkinson signed up for for IBJJF World Masters and wants to know the best training schedule leading up to a competition.
Combat Base Black Belt Pat Becker asks about heel hooks in BJJ competition. Earlier this year, IBJJF released its updated rules, legalizing the application of heel hooks and leg reaping techniques for brown and black belts in no-gi. Chris and Melissa both share their philosophy on training and competing in tournaments with heel hooks.
Southern California Combat Club's head coach Danny Suarez asks about the growth and expectations at each belt level. Chris and Melissa each share their views on the journey to the BJJ black belt and beyond!
Centerline Jiu Jitsu and MMA owner and head coach Jerry Wetzel asks about what to do when hitting a wall in jiu jitsu training. Chris and Melissa provide a few techniques and ways of thinking to help push past those moments.
Resident black belt Andy Hori shows his unique take on an armbar from omoplata. He also shares his entry technique from spider guard as well as another finishing variation.
Mixed Combat Sports head coach Paris Snyder shares his baratoplata techniques, including how to setup, control, and finish. You'll also learn how he likes to get disqualified from jiu jitsu tournaments with his patented tornado kick and double tornado kick.
Efrain Sevilla shares his wealth of knowledge on the two-on-one grip from a standing start position. He shows his techniques for entries, sweeps, and throws as well as a few nice submissions after taking his opponents to the mat.
Erik Anderson, third degree black belt and resident leg lock master, teaches how to enter, attack, defend, and counter against heel hooks. He reviews key concepts on how to control your opponents far leg while still finishing the submission. Don't miss this one if you're looking for a way to up your nogi and/or leglock game.
Casey wants to know how Melissa and Chris handle training with injuries and an aging jiu jitsu body. They each break down their strategies for continuing to train through banged up knees, hips, and just plain getting older.
Centerline Jiu Jitsu and MMA owner and head coach Jerry Wetzel shares his "cthulhu choke" from side control. This sneaky and technical choke can be the perfect weapon against larger opponents. While setting up the choke he details the best way to avoid getting rolled over and maintain side control.
In this video Andy Hori asks how to keep a BJJ class focused and engaging for students. Chris and Melissa both give their take on the best ways to be entertaining, inspirational, and still share some great techniques and knowledge.
In our latest video, Casey Hanmer provides a great tutorial on nogi back attacks and submissions including a reverse triangle and arm lock. She shows her techniques for passing the guard, taking the back, and the optimal ways to counter your opponents defenses.
The Combat Base Club’s own renaissance man Mike Dytri dives deep into the Estima lock submission in the gi. In this video he covers entry into position, baiting your opponent into inverting or regaurding to perfectly enter the Estima lock position, and of course the fine details of maintaining the position and finishing the submission.
Jamico “Wristlock Jay” Elder makes his debut in the Combat Base Club’s Black Belt Series. In this video you’ll learn the finer details on the Kimura and key lock. With his comprehensive teaching style Jay will show submission techniques from side control and closed guard. Don't miss this one!
Third degree black belt Patrick Becker teaches the finer points of straight ankle locks, ashi garami, and general leg entanglements. Learn entries from butterfly guard, combat base stance, and your opponents double ankle sweep as well as details on finishing the straight ankle lock submission.
Is it better to have a well rounded or a specialized jiu jitsu game? Chris and Melissa share their thoughts.
In the premier episode of our newest series, fourth degree black belt and former pro MMA fighter Danny Suarez shares his knowledge with the Combat Base Club. In this video you'll learn the secrets behind his foot trip, fireman's throw, uma plata, and side control arm bar.
Join Melissa Haueter in "Solo Guard & Inversions," a unique at-home training adventure! Discover how a simple wall can transform your solo drills, keeping your BJJ skills sharp and fitness on point. Engage your toes, mimic guard movements, and delve into inversions with step-by-step guidance. From wall walking to dynamic bridge maneuvers, Melissa's exercises ensure a full-body workout. Whether you're honing open guard movements or mastering shoulder rolls, this video is your go-to guide for elevating your solo BJJ practice. Fun, engaging, and challenging — perfect for any Combat Base Club member!
How do you handle challenge matches from those coming into your gym to "test" jiu jitsu?
Ready to amplify your BJJ game with wrestling fundamentals? Chris and Melissa Haueter bring the heat in "Wrestling in Jiu Jitsu: The Pummel". Discover the essence of pummeling beyond the rhythmic dance. From mastering the underhook stance to skillfully using head control, embark on a cooperative journey from basic drills to resistance-based pummeling. Plus, unveil the art of the hip throw, body locks, and the tactical game of positioning. It's not just about the moves; it's the art of control. Dive in and embrace the dance of dominance!
Embark on a solo BJJ journey with Melissa Haueter in "Solo Guard Passing & Arm Bars." Transform your living room into a training ground using just a pillow or a pad! Dive into the art of mastering guard passes and securing arm bars from top positions. Melissa's step-by-step instructions make complex techniques accessible and fun. Whether you're applying shoulder pressure or transitioning into an armbar, this video is your key to solo success. Ideal for Combat Base Club members aiming to refine their techniques at home. Get ready to roll solo with style and efficiency!
Watch Chris and Melissa cover the fundamentals of grip fighting and breaks in gi grappling. In this video you'll learn the primary methods for breaking a collar grips, as well as multiple techniques for escaping sleeve grips.
In this video you’ll learn all about the standard hip throw, the grandad of all throws! Chris and Melissa provide all the basics to the techniques as well as drills you can do to practice each motion of the throw. As a bonus you’ll also see the counter to the hip throw, the hurdle step!
Chris and Melissa share their thoughts on grips. Is it best to strip your opponents grips, or focus on establishing your own? Watch and learn!
Watch the second installment of the fundamentals of guard recovery and retention. In this video you'll learn excellent drills for practicing guard recovery, more retention techniques, and attacks from guard.
Learn the fundamentals of guard recovery and retention. In part one of this series Chris and Melissa cover the importance of the "L Principle" in the bottom guard position and a variety of techniques that will help you keep your opponent from passing.
Chris and Melissa break down the anatomy of chokes in BJJ. The basic philosophies, the technique, and the finish.
Unwind and rejuvenate with Melissa Haueter in this essential Cool Down video. After an intense workout or training session, Melissa guides you through a carefully curated series of stretches and exercises. These movements are designed not just to relax your muscles, but to restore and replenish your body, ensuring you’re ready for your next BJJ challenge.
Elevate your BJJ game with Melissa's expert guidance on Top Positions and Transitions. In this solo training video, she demonstrates a variety of exercises and techniques specifically tailored for practicing and mastering BJJ top positions and seamless transitions, enhancing your control and fluidity on the mat.
Clothing isn't just protective wear; it's a weapon in disguise. Discover various choke techniques using shirts or jackets and manipulate an opponent using their apparel. Further, delve into precise passing methods and strike effectively when you're dominant in their guard.
Being vulnerable on the ground isn't an option. Haueter teaches escape techniques when an opponent is behind, drawing inspiration from wrestling's sit-out drills. Explore variations of traditional wrestling shots tailored for the streets, including the formidable high double-leg shot. Boost your defense, especially from the turtle position.
Secure your dominance with side control techniques specially crafted for street scenarios. This volume zeroes in on retaining control, especially when faced with unpredictable moves like groin grabs. Additionally, uncover the secrets of effective striking from side control.
Dive deeper into adapting BJJ for real-world confrontations. Learn how to modify classical control positions to suit street fights. Harness the power of arm locks, maintain dominance while in your guard, and keep upright adversaries at bay when you're grounded.
"Old School Street Fighting" kicks off with standing essentials. Chris Haueter emphasizes the importance of a firm stance, managing distance, and clinching. Master the art of timing and leverage to take opponents down effortlessly. While the focus remains on upright techniques, get a glimpse into effective ground strategies too.
The latest installation of the Combat Base Club series uncovers more guard secrets. Chris walks through the fundamentals of the simple scissor sweep along with adjustments to the technique for opponents with strong base and good posture. BONUS: Defending the smash pass!
Watch Chris and Melissa cover the fundamentals of escaping the bottom quarter position. In this video Chris teaches the hook and roll, duck under, and recovering guard. Melissa provides a deeper look into recovering guard from this position with some alternatives.
Dive into the dynamic world of level changes in BJJ with Melissa Haueter. This instructional video focuses on the art of changing levels – from high to low and vice versa – and its critical role in BJJ. These solo drills will not only improve your agility but also your understanding of strategic positioning.
Chris and Melissa tackle north south position spine control.
In this episode Chris and Melissa review the several options for escaping from the mount. Watch and learn the fundamentals of protecting yourself while on bottom, various escapes, and fine details. This video features both gi and no-gi techniques designed to get your out from under your opponent.
Chris and Melissa tackle the blue belt blues. How do you advance? How to get to purple belt?
Watch Chris and Melissa review variations of the Kimura. In this video you'll see a standard drill, a standing variation, as well as more advanced techniques for breaking down a resisting opponent and actively creating openings to get and finish the Kimura. You'll also learn how to transition from the Kimura to other submissions and sweeps.
How do you finish the arm bar? When do you abandon and transition? Chris and Melissa offer their insight on what to do when your opponent is successfully defending an armbar.
Strengthen your core and guard game with this targeted video by Melissa. Focusing on exercises that fortify your core muscles, along with practical drills to enhance your guard, this video is a must-watch for anyone looking to build endurance and skill in these fundamental areas of BJJ.
Lay a solid foundation for your BJJ journey with Melissa Haueter's Basic Ground Skills video. Here, you'll find exercises specifically designed to enhance your ground game, providing a strong base for further BJJ skills development. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refresh your fundamentals, this video is an invaluable resource.
Kickstart your training with Melissa's Warm-Up video. Perfect for priming your body before diving into more intense workouts, this basic warm-up routine is designed to gradually increase your heart rate, loosen your muscles, and mentally prepare you for the BJJ training ahead. Ideal as a starting point before exploring other videos in the series.
Don't miss this one! Melissa shares the secrets to her "fundamental five" chokes from the closed guard, she walks through and details each choke step by step. Perfect for any level of jiu jitsu knowledge. Chris adds his specific details including techniques for breaking down your opponent's posture.
In this episode Chris and Melissa will break down a variety of the counters to spider guard including basic one-handed grip breaks, posture and rising up, taxing and tiring your opponent, and even leg attacks as a last resort.
Dive into the intricacies of "The Triangle" with BJJ maestros, Chris Haueter and Melissa Haueter! Discover the foundations of executing this choke, mastering angles, and the art of the squeeze. From optimal hip positioning to the powerful ThighMaster pinch, you'll learn techniques that transform your grip game. Whether you're countering passes or initiating choke attacks, these insights will elevate your triangle proficiency to elite levels. Triangle, armbar, or the iconic omoplata – evolve your BJJ journey with the Haueters!
Join Chris and Melissa Haueter as they delve deep into the mesmerizing world of the Spider Guard in "The Open Guard: Spider Guard". Journey from its history, where sleeve design hindered its mastery, to today's techniques where the grip is only a part of the equation. Experience step-by-step transitions from basic positions to advanced sweeps and submissions.
Learn the art of tracking, how to seamlessly transition from one move to the next, and the secrets of leveraging body mechanics. Dive in, and let your BJJ game weave a web of unstoppable moves!