“Mastering the Rubber Guard” by Eddie Bravo is an essential read for any Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner looking to expand their arsenal of techniques. The book covers the history and evolution of the Rubber Guard, a unique BJJ position created by Bravo, as well as detailed instructions on how to master this technique.

Section 1

History and Evolution: In the first section of the book, Bravo explains the origins of the Rubber Guard, how he developed it and the various influences that led to its creation. The author delves into the history of BJJ, the influence of Bruce Lee and the evolution of the guard position, providing a rich context for the reader to understand the significance of the Rubber Guard in modern BJJ.

Section 2

The Rubber Guard: The second section of the book is where Bravo goes into great detail on the Rubber Guard itself. He covers the basic mechanics of the position, including how to control your opponent’s posture and create angles for submissions. Bravo then moves on to the various attacks and transitions that can be used from the Rubber Guard, including sweeps, submissions, and transitions to other positions. The author provides step-by-step instructions and clear illustrations to ensure the reader can fully grasp the techniques.

Section 3

Counters and Escapes: The third section of the book is focused on counters and escapes to the Rubber Guard. Bravo acknowledges that the Rubber Guard is not an infallible position and that opponents will look for ways to counter and escape it. The author provides several techniques to address these challenges, including counters to specific submissions and escapes to other positions.

Section 4

Training and Competition: The final section of the book covers training and competition strategies for the Rubber Guard. Bravo provides advice on how to incorporate the Rubber Guard into your training routine, how to drill the techniques effectively, and how to apply the Rubber Guard in competition. The author also addresses some common misconceptions and mistakes that people make when attempting to use the Rubber Guard in live sparring and competition.

Pros

• Comprehensive coverage of the Rubber Guard concept
• Clear and concise writing style
• High-quality photos that demonstrate each technique
• Attention given to details
• Tips on how to drill and practice each technique effectively
• Provides multiple variations and details for each technique

Cons

• Some techniques may be too advanced for beginners
• Limited coverage of the defensive aspect of the Rubber Guard

Conclusion

Overall, “Mastering the Rubber Guard” is a comprehensive guide to one of the most innovative and effective positions in modern BJJ. Eddie Bravo’s writing style is clear and concise, and the illustrations and step-by-step instructions make it easy for readers to follow along. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in expanding their knowledge and skills in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.