Legendary Brazilian jiu-jitsu coach John Danaher has distilled the complex martial art into an elegantly simple four-step system that reveals the fundamental logic behind this ground-based fighting discipline.
In his appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience, Danaher explained how jiu-jitsu operates as a methodical progression designed to neutralize an opponent’s most dangerous attributes while maximizing control and submission opportunities.
Step One: Take the Fight to the Ground
The first step addresses a critical question: why does jiu-jitsu prioritize ground fighting? Danaher uses the javelin throw as a compelling analogy. Olympic javelin throwers can hurl their projectiles 80 to 90 meters using explosive full-body movement, but if forced to throw from their knees, that distance collapses to a mere 10 meters.
The principle is clear—the closer a human body gets to the ground, the less it can generate explosive force. This makes ground fighting inherently safer, as Danaher notes: “It takes away the single riskiest element of fighting which is quick dynamic movement that can generate kinetic energy.”
Like cowboys branding a steer, the first priority is getting your opponent down where their dangerous explosive capabilities are neutralized.
Step Two: Pass the Legs
Once on the ground, the legs remain a formidable weapon. They’re strong, defensive, and dangerous—capable of delivering devastating up-kicks or securing leg locks and even strangles. Getting past this barrier is essential to establishing control and minimizing risk.
Step Three: Work Through the Hierarchy of Pins
Jiu-jitsu employs a sophisticated system of pins—knee on belly, side control, mount, and rear mount—each scored differently in sport competition. Danaher reveals the underlying logic: “Every one of the pins of jujitsu the value of it is measured by your potential to strike your opponent on the ground.”
Rear mount scores highest because it offers maximum attacking potential while rendering you immune to counterattack. Mount provides a stable striking platform, while knee on belly allows powerful strikes despite being less stable.
Step Four: Submit Your Opponent
The final step involves applying submissions—chokes, joint locks, and other techniques that force an opponent to concede defeat. With position secured and striking potential established, the practitioner can now finish the fight.
This four-step framework demonstrates why Brazilian jiu-jitsu has proven so effective. It’s not just a collection of techniques, but a coherent strategic system built on sound mechanical principles.
