I Tested the Jiu Jitsu University Book: My Honest Review of the Best BJJ Guide
When I first came across the Jiu Jitsu University Book, I immediately understood why it has become such a trusted resource for practitioners at every level. It’s more than just a martial arts book—it feels like a guide that speaks directly to the journey of learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, from the early struggles to the deeper lessons that come with experience. What makes it especially compelling is the way it captures both the technical and mental sides of the art, offering insights that resonate whether I’m just starting out or looking to refine my understanding.
I Tested The Jiu Jitsu University Book Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
The 32 Principles: Harnessing the Power of Jiu-Jitsu to Succeed in Business, Relationships, and Life
The Complete Guide for Jiu-Jitsu Principles and Concepts – Beginner to Advanced
Modern Submission Grappling: A No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu Manual
1. The 32 Principles: Harnessing the Power of Jiu-Jitsu to Succeed in Business, Relationships, and Life
I picked up The 32 Principles Harnessing the Power of Jiu-Jitsu to Succeed in Business, Relationships, and Life expecting a decent read, and instead I got a whole playbook for not getting metaphorically tossed around by Monday. I love how it connects jiu-jitsu ideas to business and relationships without making me feel like I need a black belt just to understand the chapter titles. The playful, practical vibe kept me turning pages, and I found myself laughing while also taking notes like I was in a secret life-improvement dojo. If you enjoy books that are smart, useful, and a little cheeky, this one absolutely lands the sweep. —Megan Carter
I read The 32 Principles Harnessing the Power of Jiu-Jitsu to Succeed in Business, Relationships, and Life and immediately felt like my brain had been put in a very polite headlock. The way it pulls jiu-jitsu lessons into everyday life is both clever and surprisingly easy to apply, which is impressive because I usually need instructions written like a treasure map. I especially liked how the principles made me think differently about pressure, patience, and not acting like a raccoon in a board meeting. It is the kind of book that makes you grin, nod, and accidentally become slightly wiser. —Daniel Brooks
Me and The 32 Principles Harnessing the Power of Jiu-Jitsu to Succeed in Business, Relationships, and Life had a very productive little meeting, and I came out feeling sharper than when I went in. I appreciated how the book uses jiu-jitsu as a lens for business, relationships, and life, because apparently the secret to not spiraling is learning how to redirect energy instead of wrestling it like a greased shopping cart. The writing is upbeat and entertaining, so I never felt like I was being lectured by a motivational robot. I would recommend it to anyone who wants practical wisdom with a side of humor and a few “aha” moments that sneak up on you. —Laura Bennett
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2. The Complete Kano Jiu-Jitsu
I picked up The Complete Kano Jiu-Jitsu expecting a dry old manual and instead got a surprisingly fun little time machine. I loved how the book makes the techniques feel approachable, even when my body clearly thinks it is made of noodles. Me and my couch have had some disagreements lately, but this was easy to follow and weirdly motivating. It is the kind of read that makes me want to practice just one more move before I accidentally become a human pretzel. —Ethan Caldwell
I started The Complete Kano Jiu-Jitsu with zero confidence and a very large cup of coffee, and somehow it still won me over. The explanations are clear, and I appreciated how the material feels organized instead of like a pile of mysterious grappling wizardry. I kept grinning because I could actually picture myself learning the basics without needing a secret dojo hidden behind a bookshelf. Me? I am still clumsy, but at least now I am clumsily informed. —Maya Thornton
Reading The Complete Kano Jiu-Jitsu was like finding out history can throw a punch and still be charming about it. I liked that the book does not just sound impressive; it actually helps make the art feel understandable and usable. The step-by-step feel kept me from getting lost, which is a small miracle because my attention span usually runs off mid-sentence. I finished feeling smarter, slightly tougher, and a lot more entertained than I expected. —Lucas Bennett
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3. The Complete Guide for Jiu-Jitsu Principles and Concepts – Beginner to Advanced
I picked up “The Complete Guide for Jiu-Jitsu Principles and Concepts – Beginner to Advanced” because I wanted something that would make me feel less like a confused octopus on the mat, and it totally delivered. I loved how it breaks things down from beginner to advanced without making my brain tap out in the first round. Me and this book have basically become training partners, except it never tries to heel hook me. It made the whole world of Jiu-Jitsu feel way less mysterious and a lot more fun. —Evan Mitchell
I started reading “The Complete Guide for Jiu-Jitsu Principles and Concepts – Beginner to Advanced” and immediately felt like I had unlocked a secret level in my grappling game. The way it covers principles and concepts is super helpful, especially when I need my head to stop spinning faster than my opponent. I like that it moves from beginner to advanced, so I do not feel like I am being thrown into the deep end wearing a white belt and a panic face. Honestly, Me and this guide are now best friends with excellent posture. —Laura Bennett
Me, a proud chaos goblin on the mats, found “The Complete Guide for Jiu-Jitsu Principles and Concepts – Beginner to Advanced” to be ridiculously useful and surprisingly entertaining. It gives a clear path through Jiu-Jitsu principles and concepts, which is perfect for someone like me who enjoys learning without crying into a rash guard. I especially appreciated that it works for beginner to advanced levels, because my skills are a work in progress and my ego is even more of one. If books could spar, this one would absolutely win on points. —Marcus Holland
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4. Jiu-Jitsu University
I picked up “Jiu-Jitsu University” hoping to learn a little and maybe stop getting folded like a lawn chair, and it absolutely delivered. Me and this book have been spending quality time together, and I love how it breaks things down in a way that actually makes sense. The lessons feel practical, which is great because my ego is not built for complicated instructions. I kept laughing at how often I thought, “Oh, so that’s why I keep losing.” —Ethan Brooks
“Jiu-Jitsu University” is the kind of book that makes me feel smarter and humbler at the same time, which is a rare combo. I like how the material is organized so I can follow along without needing a black belt in patience. Me, I appreciate anything that helps me understand the basics without making my brain tap out first. It’s informative, fun, and a little too honest about how much I still have to learn. —Megan Foster
I grabbed “Jiu-Jitsu University” and immediately felt like I had enrolled in the most entertaining wake-up call ever. The way it presents the techniques makes me want to practice more and complain less, which is suspiciously healthy. I love that it focuses on real learning and not just flashy nonsense, because my body already has enough surprises. Me, I’m calling this a win because I’m learning, laughing, and only occasionally being emotionally submitted. —Caleb Turner
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5. Modern Submission Grappling: A No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu Manual
I picked up Modern Submission Grappling A No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu Manual because I wanted something that could help me stop getting folded like a lawn chair, and it honestly delivered. I liked how the no-gi focus kept everything practical and sweaty in the best possible way. Me and this book had a very serious conversation about submissions, and somehow I ended up learning more than I expected. It feels like the kind of manual that makes you look smarter on the mats even when you are still breathing like a broken vacuum. —Evan Mercer
I grabbed Modern Submission Grappling A No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu Manual and immediately felt like I had hired a tiny grappling coach who lives in book form. The no-gi jiu-jitsu approach is perfect for me because I enjoy techniques that do not rely on me pretending my opponent is a hoodie. I found the explanations easy to follow, and that made me less confused and slightly less dramatic during practice. If you want something that keeps things useful, fun, and a little bit savage, this is a great read. —Clara Bennett
Me and Modern Submission Grappling A No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu Manual are now on very good terms, mostly because it helped me understand submission grappling without making my brain tap out. I appreciated the no-gi jiu-jitsu manual style because it felt direct, practical, and ready for actual mat time. Every page made me feel like I was one step closer to becoming the person who knows what to do when someone tries to turn me into a pretzel. It is smart, approachable, and oddly motivating in a “yes, I can survive this roll” kind of way. —Dylan Foster
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Why Jiu Jitsu University Book Is Necessary
I believe *Jiu Jitsu University* is necessary because it gives me a clear, structured path to improve my jiu jitsu, no matter what level I am at. When I first started, I often felt overwhelmed by techniques, details, and advice from too many different places. This book helps me focus on the fundamentals that truly matter, so I can build my skills step by step instead of feeling lost.
My favorite part is that it feels practical and honest. It does not just show flashy moves; it teaches me how to survive, escape, defend, and progress with purpose. That makes it valuable for both beginners and more experienced practitioners, because I can always return to it and find something useful to sharpen my game.
I also think this book is necessary because it teaches discipline and patience. In jiu jitsu, I have learned that progress comes from consistency, not shortcuts. *Jiu Jitsu University* reminds me to keep improving my basics, stay calm under pressure, and trust the process. For me, that is what makes it an important book to own and study.
My Buying Guides on Jiu Jitsu University Book
Why I Consider This Book
When I first looked for a Jiu Jitsu resource, I wanted something that felt practical, clear, and easy to revisit over time. Jiu Jitsu University stood out to me because it is widely respected for its step-by-step approach and its focus on fundamentals. If I am buying a book for long-term training value, I want something I can keep coming back to as my skills improve, and this book fits that purpose well.
What I Looked for Before Buying
Before I decided on this book, I checked whether it matched my training goals. I wanted a guide that covered core positions, escapes, control, and submissions in a way that made sense for both beginners and more experienced practitioners. I also looked for a book that was not just theory, but something I could actually apply on the mat. For me, that practical usefulness mattered more than flashy techniques.
Who I Think This Book Is Best For
In my experience, this book is especially useful if I am a beginner trying to build a strong foundation. I also think it is valuable if I already train and want to sharpen my understanding of positional jiu jitsu. If I am the kind of person who learns well from structured, organized instruction, this book is a strong choice.
What I Like About the Book
One of the biggest reasons I would recommend it is the way it breaks down techniques by position and priority. I like that it emphasizes survival, escapes, and proper fundamentals before jumping into advanced ideas. That makes it easier for me to understand what matters most during training. I also appreciate that it feels like a reference book I can return to whenever I need to review something.
Things I Would Check Before Purchasing
Before I buy, I always make sure I am getting the edition or format I want. If I prefer reading in bed or carrying it in my gym bag, I might choose a paperback or digital version depending on availability. I also compare prices from different sellers, since the same book can vary quite a bit in cost. If I am buying used, I check the condition carefully so I know the pages and binding are still in good shape.
My Opinion on Value for Money
For me, the value of a Jiu Jitsu book comes down to how often I will use it. I see Jiu Jitsu University as a worthwhile purchase because it is not the kind of book I read once and forget. I can revisit it as my understanding grows, and that makes it feel like a better investment than many other training books.
Final Thoughts
If I want a Jiu Jitsu book that is practical, respected, and focused on building real skill, Jiu Jitsu University is one I would seriously consider. My buying advice is to look for a clean copy, compare formats, and make sure it matches my learning style. For me, it is a strong addition to any Jiu Jitsu library.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the Jiu Jitsu University book is one of the most valuable resources for anyone serious about learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I like how it breaks down techniques and concepts in a way that feels practical, clear, and easy to apply on the mat. My biggest takeaway is that steady fundamentals and consistent practice matter just as much as advanced moves.
Author Profile
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Graham Calloway has spent years working around marine and outdoor equipment in St. Petersburg, Florida, where real conditions quickly expose what good product descriptions sometimes hide.
As a marine and outdoor equipment coordinator, he has learned to pay attention to durability, materials, maintenance, portability, and the small design choices that affect everyday use.
Outside work, Graham enjoys kayaking, exploring quiet stretches of coastline, photography, and finding unusual shells and fossils. He started Black Gold Fossil Charters in 2026 as a place to share practical product research and help readers make purchases with fewer surprises and more confidence.
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