“Sharpening the Saw” is Covey’s term for improving your skill level. In Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, aside from the obvious route of logging heavy mat time, there is also the option to do your research while you recover. For me this is a crucial aspect of my game because recovery days at the tender age of 46, are not discretionary.
My latest inspiration comes from two sources:
First, is Eddie Bravo’s “Mastering the Rubber Guard“. I have heard Eddie’s name mentioned a number of times in online forums. There seems to be a fair amount of controversy over the efficacy of his methods and over his advocacy of cannabis use. Wherever there is such controversy, I find there is a whole segment of the population that will reject someone like Eddie out of hand without checking out his technique. As much because I am a contrarian as for any other reason, I have started reading his book before bed. The omoplata from rubber guard was my first read and yes, it works well on some of the other white belts. I like the clarity of the book and the fact that it is a style that features a tight guard system that favours old guys like me who don’t like to get smashed. It DOES require a high level of flexibility but I am working on that anyway.
Second is my friend Chris’ link to Cane Provost’s Blog “The Gentle Art“. I had trouble navigating his site at first because it didn’t seem that he had any recent posts. NOT TRUE. I persevered and linked (check out the link in the sidebar) to some more recent stuff and his videos are very clear and simple. So now I have to find the time to watch them. Again, perfect task for a recovery day when my body is feeling broken.
There is no substitute for rolling with a live partner. But all things being equal, there is MUCH to be gained by investigating old techniques, new techniques, and the unique spin that other players put on their game.
Keep your saw sharp!
