Jiu-Jitsu Unleashed by Eddie Bravo - November, 2005

Since Eddie's new book came out, Jiu-Jitsu Unleashed isn't as important as it once was. Get "Mastering the Rubber Guard" if you can, but this one's well worth a read.

--------------------

Insight Into a Unique Style

Let mefirst say I love the format of this book. It's a shade smaller than other BJJ books I have and is easier to read because of that. Colour photos would have been a help, but the contrasting clothing of the models is good enough.

Content-wise, this book is exactly what it says it is and more. It starts off with the mandatory look at Bravo's history and philosophy before getting to the technical part.

As I've heard said, there's nothing really new in the half-guard section. It's featured because it is such a major part of Bravo's game. What it does give you is a look at the details that make the position work for Eddie. He also explains how he came to incorporate them into his game and why. Further, Bravo gives the reader an idea of how to string the techniques together to come up with a gameplan.

What I've written for the half-guard seems equally true for the sections on the mount and the back, as well. There are pieces that explain the details of what makes Bravo's game unique, but there are really no new techniques. It's a new philosophy. That said, there were still a couple of "A-ha" moments for me.

Where this book really comes into its own for me is the Rubber Guard section. Again, Eddie explains why he began developing the Rubber Guard as his primary guard philosophy and goes on to explain the hows and whys of the technique. I found, although I knew the techniques, I really didn't know the hows and whys or how to set them up. Now I'm getting the hang of it.

I haven't delved too far into the section on "Twister Side Control", despite the fact it's an important part of the book. The side is my strongest area and doesn't need the work. However, if you're interested in seeing how Eddie sets up his trademark technique and what the position can do for you in terms of gameplan, the information's all there.

All in all, this book will provide the reader with a few new techniques and some fantastic ideas on how to incorporate them to fill holes in your game.