First Grading Day! E17 BJJ Weekly Newsletter 30/06/2025
- e17bjj
- Jun 30
- 2 min read
Hey team,
Hope you all had a great weekend and managed to enjoy some sunshine—or at least got some well-earned rest. We’ve got a big milestone coming up today, so let’s get straight to it!
Our First Grading Day!
Today marks our first ever grading day at E17 BJJ, and I want to take a moment to recognise how meaningful this is.
BJJ gradings can feel a little different compared to other martial arts—there’s no formal test, and promotions come through consistent training, technical understanding, and application during sparring. It's a long road, and progress isn't always linear. But that’s exactly why every stripe or belt is hard-earned and deeply meaningful.
If you're not grading today—keep training. Everyone's journey is different, and the most important thing is to show up, put in the work, and enjoy the process.
We’ll be heading to the pub -The Nag's Head- afterwards to celebrate (whether you're grading or not, come hang out)!
This Week’s Classes
Fundamentals (Monday, before grading):
We’ll be running a guided open drilling session. If you're new, this is a great opportunity for me to help you go over core movements and positions you will need in BJJ. If you’re more experienced, come work on areas you want to improve—ask us questions, troubleshoot, and get some reps in.
Fundamentals: Top Side Control
How do we control an opponent after we pass their guard? We’ll break down how to pin effectively, stay heavy, and set up submissions or transitions to even better positions.
Fundamentals Plus:
We will be working a last week of guard passing, working on some Headquarters (HQ) positioning. HQ is a great option if you find one of your legs between your partners while passing!
BJJ Tip of the Week: Controlling Top Side Control
The key to good side control? Control the nearside hip.
If you let their hips move, they’ll escape (shrimping!) Block it with your knee, your hip, or your hand—but always be aware of where it is. Bonus points for managing their far arm too and keeping your weight off your knees!
Founders 3 Memberships Are Now Live
Our Founders 2 memberships have officially closed—a big thank you to everyone who jumped on board and helped build the foundations of our academy.
Founders 3 memberships are now available! Still a great value, if you know anyone who might be interested in joining us before we move into a bigger space later this year, let them know about this great offer!
As always—thank you all for being part of this growing community. Whether you're grading today or just showing up and learning, you're progressing.
See you on the mats (and maybe at the pub 🍻)!
- Mouncif
E17 BJJ
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