Finally, we get to the submissions. Interestingly, the submission section is relatively small compared to the rest of the book. This is deliberate. Saulo argues that if you attempt a submission without positional dominance, you are gambling. He focuses on high-percentage attacks: the cross choke from mount, the armbar from technical mount, and the bow-and-arrow choke from the back.
The genius of Jiu-Jitsu University is its organizational structure. Saulo organizes the chaos of Jiu-Jitsu into a four-semester curriculum based on belt rank.
Most BJJ books start with an armbar from mount. Saulo does the opposite. The very first chapter, "The White Belt: Survival," is arguably the most important 50 pages ever written in grappling literature.
Saulo posits that a white belt’s only job is to survive. He introduces the "5 Survival Principles":
Unlike flashy submissions, these principles are boring, difficult, and essential. Saulo argues that until you can survive against a larger, aggressive opponent for 5 minutes without getting submitted, you have no business attacking. This flipped the traditional BJJ curriculum on its head and has saved countless beginners from quitting out of frustration.
Before we analyze the book, we have to understand the author. Saulo Ribeiro is not just a world champion; he is a six-time Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu World Champion (IBJJF) and a member of the BJJ Hall of Fame. He earned his black belt under the legendary Rolls Gracie and Royler Gracie.
What separates Saulo from other champions is his reputation as a teacher. While some competitors are naturally gifted athletes unable to explain why a move works, Saulo is a master pedagogue. His conceptual approach—focusing on survival, escapes, and positional hierarchy—changed how BJJ was taught globally. Jiu-Jitsu University is essentially the distillation of his teaching philosophy at the height of his competitive and coaching career.
If you could own only one BJJ instructional book, this is the one.
It has saved countless people from quitting BJJ due to frustration or injury. It will transform your mindset from "I need to tap people" to "I need to be impossible to submit," and ironically, that's the fastest path to eventually submitting others.
One helpful tip: Don't just read it. Put the book on the floor, practice the "survival posture" in mount for 60 seconds while staying calm, then try it in live training. Repeat for each section. That's how you'll get the most value. jiu-jitsu university by saulo ribeiro
Jiu-Jitsu University , published in 2008 by Victory Belt Publishing, is a comprehensive training manual authored by six-time Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) World Champion Saulo Ribeiro
and Kevin Howell. Widely regarded as a cornerstone of BJJ literature, the book provides a structured curriculum mapping out over 200 techniques across different belt ranks. Core Philosophy and Structure
Unlike standard manuals, the book is organized by belt rank, with each section focusing on a specific developmental goal for the practitioner:
White Belt (Survival): Focuses on posture, defenses, and preventing submissions to build a "bulletproof" foundation.
Blue Belt (Escapes): Emphasizes precise, timing-based escapes from inferior positions.
Purple Belt (The Guard): Covers constructing an intelligent, structured guard and developing an attacking mindset.
Brown Belt (Guard Passing): Focuses on efficient, pressure-based passing rooted in balance and timing.
Black Belt (Submissions): Teaches how to finish fights with clean, high-percentage submissions from dominant positions. Key Features
Functional Focus: It emphasizes traditional, high-percentage fundamentals rather than "flashy" or modern techniques. Finally, we get to the submissions
Common Errors: Ribeiro identifies frequent mistakes made at each level and provides practical remedies to correct them.
Rich Illustrations: The book contains numerous step-by-step photographs to demonstrate proper mechanics and positioning.
Accessible Format: It is available in various formats, including standard trade paperback and a spiral-bound version for easier use during drilling. Impact and Reception Jiu Jitsu University - Review - BJJ Mat Rat
Title: Mastering the Art of Jiu-Jitsu: Insights from Saulo Ribeiro's "Jiu-Jitsu University"
Introduction
Jiu-jitsu is a martial art that requires dedication, perseverance, and a deep understanding of its techniques and principles. For those looking to take their jiu-jitsu game to the next level, Saulo Ribeiro's "Jiu-Jitsu University" is a must-read. In this book, Ribeiro shares his expertise and provides a comprehensive guide to mastering the art of jiu-jitsu. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the key takeaways from "Jiu-Jitsu University" and discuss how you can apply them to your own jiu-jitsu journey.
The Importance of Fundamentals
Ribeiro emphasizes the importance of mastering the fundamentals of jiu-jitsu. According to him, a strong foundation in basic techniques such as guard passing, sweeps, and submissions is essential for success in the sport. He stresses that too many practitioners focus on flashy techniques and complex movements, neglecting the basics that truly matter.
To build a strong foundation, Ribeiro recommends drilling basic techniques repeatedly until they become second nature. This approach allows you to develop muscle memory and frees up your mind to focus on more advanced techniques and strategies. The genius of Jiu-Jitsu University is its organizational
The Concept of "Jiu-Jitsu University"
The title of Ribeiro's book, "Jiu-Jitsu University," refers to the idea that jiu-jitsu is a lifelong journey of learning and growth. Ribeiro believes that every practitioner, regardless of their skill level or experience, can continue to learn and improve their skills.
In "Jiu-Jitsu University," Ribeiro provides a framework for understanding the different levels of jiu-jitsu and how to progress through them. He identifies three main levels:
Key Takeaways
Here are some key takeaways from "Jiu-Jitsu University":
Conclusion
"Jiu-Jitsu University" by Saulo Ribeiro is a comprehensive guide to mastering the art of jiu-jitsu. By focusing on the fundamentals, understanding the different levels of jiu-jitsu, and applying key principles and strategies, you can take your jiu-jitsu game to the next level. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced practitioner, Ribeiro's book offers valuable insights and instruction that can help you improve your skills and achieve your goals in jiu-jitsu.
Who is Saulo Ribeiro?
Saulo Ribeiro is a renowned jiu-jitsu instructor and competitor. A black belt under Marcus Aurelio, Ribeiro has won numerous tournaments, including the World Championships and the Pan American Championships. He is known for his technical expertise and his ability to break down complex techniques into simple, easy-to-understand language.
Recommendation
"Jiu-Jitsu University" is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their jiu-jitsu skills and deepen their understanding of the art. The book is suitable for practitioners of all levels, from beginners to experienced competitors. If you're looking to take your jiu-jitsu game to the next level, we highly recommend adding "Jiu-Jitsu University" to your bookshelf.