Why 10th planet?
Why Choose 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu: Benefits, Techniques, and Unique Philosophy
Choosing a grappling system that bridges self-defense, MMA performance, and creative problem-solving defines why choose 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu as your ultimate training path. This no-gi focused art offers unmatched adaptability, fosters innovation in technique, and cultivates a supportive community for all skill levels. In the sections that follow, you will discover:
What 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu is, its founder, history, and guiding philosophy
The key benefits that elevate physical conditioning, flexibility, and real-world application
How 10th Planet differs from traditional Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in attire, techniques, and mindset
The signature moves—Rubber Guard, Twister, Lockdown—and their core mechanics
A beginner’s roadmap through the belt system, gym locations, and early training insights
The influence on MMA, submission-only grappling, and the Eddie Bravo Invitational
The strategic advantages of an exclusive no-gi curriculum for speed, adaptability, and self-defense
By exploring these themes under the umbrella of “Why Choose 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu,” you’ll gain a clear framework to decide if this innovative system aligns with your martial arts goals.
What Is 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu and Who Founded It?
10th Planet Jiu Jitsu is a revolutionary no-gi grappling system developed to optimize ground fighting without the constraints of a traditional gi. It emphasizes fluid transitions, unconventional control positions, and submission creativity suited for Mixed Martial Arts and real-world self-defense. Understanding its origin and philosophical roots sets the stage for appreciating its distinctive approach.
What is 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu?
10th Planet Jiu Jitsu is a no-gi grappling system that emphasizes fluid transitions and unconventional control positions, developed to optimize ground fighting. It focuses on submission creativity and is well-suited for Mixed Martial Arts and self-defense scenarios.
10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu is a non-traditional system of Brazilian jiu-jitsu developed by Eddie Bravo (2003)
This system was designed to be used in MMA competitions.
Who is Eddie Bravo and What Is His Role in 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu?
Eddie Bravo is the founder and head instructor of 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu, renowned for his unorthodox techniques and submission-only competition success. A black belt under Jean-Jacques Machado, Bravo leveraged his wrestling background and open-minded experimentation to craft a curriculum that breaks away from gi-centric traditions. His vision as a coach, promoter, and innovator continues to guide affiliate schools worldwide.
Who is Eddie Bravo?
Eddie Bravo is the founder and head instructor of 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu, known for his unorthodox techniques and success in submission-only competitions. He is a black belt under Jean-Jacques Machado.
Eddie Bravo is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt under Jean Jacques Machado and founder of the Eddie Bravo Invitational (EBI) (2009)
Bravo's system departs from traditional gi-centric traditions.
How Did 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu Emerge from Traditional Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?
10th Planet Jiu Jitsu emerged in the early 2000s when Eddie Bravo departed from the gi environment to explore no-gi grappling’s potential in MMA. By removing the gi, he accelerated positional transitions and prioritized grips on limbs and body hooks rather than cloth. This historical shift catalyzed the development of signature positions like the Rubber Guard, emphasizing flexibility and control over brute strength.
What Is the Core Philosophy Behind 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu?
The core philosophy of 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu rests on three pillars: creativity, innovation, and an evolving mindset. By encouraging practitioners to adapt techniques to their body types, this system nurtures problem-solving skills in dynamic scenarios. For example, exploring alternative entries to submissions sparks novel solutions in live roll, illustrating how open-ended concepts drive continuous technical progression.
What Are the Key Benefits of Training in 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu?
Training in 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu delivers multifaceted advantages that extend beyond mat performance. Practitioners gain real-world self-defense readiness, athletic conditioning, and a mental framework for inventive grappling. These benefits reinforce one another, creating a comprehensive growth environment for martial artists.
Enhanced adaptability across opponent sizes and styles builds confidence in unpredictable encounters
Functional strength and mobility improvements result from constant hip-based control and inversion drills
Cognitive agility flourishes as students learn to devise unexpected entries and counters
A tight-knit community fosters peer support, motivation, and a “no-ego” culture that accelerates learning
Benefits of No-Gi Training
No-gi training enhances adaptability in realistic scenarios by prioritizing body grips and dynamic movement patterns. It also improves athleticism and speed.
Training in a rashguard and shorts isn't just good for your cardio, it's good for your Jiu-Jitsu (Gracie Sutherland Shire)
No-gi training is more easily transferred to self-defense.
By integrating these aspects, 10th Planet cultivates well-rounded grapplers capable of thriving in MMA, sport competitions, and street-self-defense contexts.
How Does 10th Planet Improve Adaptability for MMA and Self-Defense?
10th Planet’s no-gi emphasis teaches grips on the human body rather than fabric, directly translating to scenarios where opponents wear street clothes. Training drills simulate high-pressure exchanges, reinforcing limb isolation techniques that neutralize strikes and enable seamless transitions to submissions. This adaptability empowers athletes to shift strategies instinctively during live combat.
What Physical Conditioning and Flexibility Benefits Does 10th Planet Offer?
Regular practice of rubber guard drills, inversion flows, and half-guard lockdown sequences develops exceptional hip mobility and core strength. These movements promote full-range joint articulation, reduce injury risk, and support explosive bridging actions. Students often report improved squat depth, spinal articulation, and overall functional fitness within months of dedicated training.
How Does 10th Planet Foster Creativity and Innovation in Grappling?
By de-emphasizing rote memorization of standardized drills, 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu encourages experimentation with entries, grip variations, and control strategies. Instructors pose open-ended scenarios—such as creating novel submissions from unconventional positions—that spark creative solutions. This problem-solving culture trains athletes to think critically under pressure and develop personalized grappling arsenals.
What Makes the 10th Planet Community and Culture Inclusive and Supportive?
A hallmark of 10th Planet is its “no ego, no drama” ethos, where practitioners support each other’s growth irrespective of rank or background. Weekly open mats and collaborative problem-solving sessions reinforce a culture of mutual respect. This inclusive environment accelerates skill development and nurtures lifelong training partners committed to collective excellence.
How Does 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu Differ from Traditional Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?
While sharing roots with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, 10th Planet diverges in attire, technical focus, and training environment. Its exclusive no-gi curriculum reshapes positional control, grips, and guard systems. By comparing these distinctions, practitioners can determine which path aligns with their goals in sport, MMA, or self-defense.
What Are the Main Differences Between No-Gi and Gi Training?
No-gi Jiu Jitsu removes the traditional kimono, shifting grips to anatomical targets and accelerating scrambles. This table outlines the core contrasts:
Training Attire
Grip Options
Movement Dynamics
Rashguard & Shorts
Wrist, neck, limb hooks
Faster transitions, less friction
Gi jacket & pants
Lapel, sleeve, pant grips
Controlled pace, fabric leverage
No-Gi Focus
Body control, underhooks, overhooks
Emphasis on wrestling-style takedowns
These differences highlight how no-gi training enhances adaptability in realistic scenarios by prioritizing body grips and dynamic movement patterns.
How Do 10th Planet’s Signature Techniques Differ from Traditional BJJ Moves?
Signature techniques define 10th Planet’s identity, each rooted in no-gi principles and creative control strategies. Detailed knowledge of these moves empowers practitioners to leverage their physical attributes and innovate new variations.
Signature Techniques
10th Planet Jiu Jitsu is known for signature techniques like the Rubber Guard, Twister, and Lockdown, which leverage flexibility and control. These techniques offer submission pathways not typically available in a gi environment.
The system is renowned for its distinctive positions and submissions, including the Rubber Guard, Twister, and Lockdown (Ringside Report Network)
These techniques are designed for MMA and real-world applications.
How Does the Rubber Guard Work and Why Is It Unique?
Rubber Guard is a high-control closed guard variation that uses the top leg to trap an opponent’s posture. It works by:
Securing a deep underhook with the top foot pressed behind the opponent’s head
Creating leverage to break posture through hip-elevation and knee-pressure
Transitioning into submissions (Omoplata, Gogoplata) or sweeps by maintaining tight leg configuration
This technique’s uniqueness lies in its inversion component and use of hip flexibility to immobilize posture without relying on a gi.
What Is the Twister Submission and How Is It Executed?
The Twister is a spinal lock submission that attacks the rotational axis of the opponent’s neck and spine. Execution steps:
Isolate one side by establishing a back-control grip and single-leg ride
Control the far leg with a locked half-guard (Lockdown)
Secure a headlock and apply lateral spinal pressure by twisting the body
By combining back control with lower-body entrapment, the Twister generates leverage against the cervical spine, distinguishing it from standard chokes and armlocks.
How Does the Lockdown Control Opponents and Lead to Submissions?
Lockdown is a half-guard entanglement that secures the inside of an opponent’s thigh using both legs. It functions by:
Applying scissors-style pressure on the trapped leg
Disrupting weight distribution and hindering base recovery
Enabling sweeps or transitions to the Twister by manipulating leg positioning
This control position bridges half-guard offense with twisted-spine submissions, reflecting 10th Planet’s emphasis on lower-body hooks.
What Other Notable 10th Planet Techniques Should Beginners Know?
Beyond core moves, beginners can explore:
The Truck – A body-lock position offering multiple spinal-lock entries
Omoplata Variations – Shoulder lock attacks through flexible guard control
Gogoplata Entries – Choke from Rubber Guard using shin-on-neck pressure
Introducing these variations early builds a foundation for creative sequencing and personal adaptation.
Is 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu Suitable for Beginners and How Do You Start?
Yes, 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu welcomes newcomers by offering structured progressions, supportive classes, and a belt system tailored to no-gi skill development. A clear roadmap ensures beginners build fundamental strength, flexibility, and technique awareness from day one.
Is 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu Good for Beginners Despite Its Unique Style?
Yes, beginners thrive in 10th Planet’s environment because instructors emphasize basic no-gi principles—body-control grips, hip positioning, and safety protocols—before introducing advanced inversions. This gradual escalation builds confidence and reduces injury risk, ensuring novices learn at a sustainable pace.
How Does the 10th Planet Belt System Work and What Is the Progression Path?
The 10th Planet belt system reflects skill milestones in no-gi grappling. Key ranks and criteria include:
Belt Level
Skill Focus
Promotion Requirement
White
Core positions, safety, drills
Mastery of basic sweeps and escapes
Grey to Blue
Rubber Guard, Lockdown entries
Effective application in sparring
Purple
Twister setups, advanced chains
Submission-only competition performance
Brown
Conceptual sequencing, teaching
Coaching peers and strategic innovation
Black
Mastery, system refinement
Contribution to curriculum development
Progression combines technical assessments with performance in open-mat drills and submission-only formats.
How Can You Find a 10th Planet Gym Near You?
To locate an affiliate school:
Visit the official 10th Planet website’s gym locator page
Enter your city or postal code to view accredited instructors
Contact the nearest affiliate to confirm class schedules and trial options
This systematic approach ensures access to certified coaches aligned with the 10th Planet curriculum.
How Has 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu Influenced MMA and Competitive Grappling?
10th Planet’s impact resonates across MMA rosters and submission-only events, where its signature techniques have produced high-profile victories and inspired rule-set innovations. Tracking real-world applications highlights its authority in grappling evolution.
Which MMA Fighters Have Successfully Used 10th Planet Techniques?
Tony Ferguson – Employs Rubber Guard setups to secure triangle transitions
Ben Saunders – Executes gogoplata chokes from closed guard improvisations
Ryan Hall – Showcases leg-entanglement mastery and Twister sequences in grappling matches
What Role Does Eddie Bravo Invitational (EBI) Play in Popularizing 10th Planet?
The Eddie Bravo Invitational revolutionized submission-only competition by spotlighting no-gi expertise and rewarding aggression. As founder and promoter, Eddie Bravo established rules that emphasize submission attempts, fast-paced action, and positional innovation, directly elevating 10th Planet’s profile in the grappling community.
Eddie Bravo Invitational (EBI)
The Eddie Bravo Invitational (EBI) is a submission-only grappling competition created by Eddie Bravo (2009). EBI's ruleset prioritizes finishes over points and has helped to popularize 10th Planet's techniques.
The Eddie Bravo Invitational (EBI) is an exciting new No Gi Jiu-Jitsu tournament ruleset designed to force submission attacks (BJJ Fanatics, 2018)
EBI has been a platform for many top grapplers.
How Does 10th Planet Support the Submission-Only Grappling Movement?
10th Planet affiliates host open tournaments and workshops focused on submission-only formats, reinforcing a culture of constant attack and technical creativity. By providing specialized training camps for competitors, the system sustains the momentum of submission-only events and nurtures a new generation of grapplers.
What Makes 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu’s No-Gi Focus Advantageous?
Exclusive no-gi training aligns practice scenarios with real-world and MMA conditions, sharpening speed, adaptability, and control without relying on cloth grips. This embedding of realistic variables fosters faster decision-making and prepares practitioners for diverse combat environments.
Why Is No-Gi Training More Applicable to Real-World and MMA Scenarios?
No-gi grappling replicates self-defense contexts where opponents wear street clothes, requiring practitioners to secure limb control without fabric assistance. By emphasizing anatomical grips, wrestle-based takedowns, and underhook leverage, no-gi systems deliver techniques directly transferable to unregulated ground encounters.
How Does No-Gi Grappling Enhance Speed and Adaptability?
Removing the friction of a gi accelerates scrambles and positional shifts, training reflexive responses and rapid re-adjustments.
Shortened Grip Exchanges accelerate control changes
Continuous Hip Movement fosters dynamic escapes and entries
Pressure-Based Control teaches leverage over force
These performance enhancements translate into quicker decision loops and improved resilience under fatigue.
What Are the Common Misconceptions About No-Gi Training and Flexibility?
Common concerns about no-gi grappling often overstate limitations rather than reflect training realities:
Believing no-gi demands extreme flexibility overlooks progressive mobility drills taught from belt-level white onward.
Assuming no-gi offers fewer submission options ignores specialized entries like Rubber Guard and Truck setups.
Perceiving no-gi as exclusively for younger athletes neglects structured strength-and-conditioning integration for all ages.
Each misconception dissolves when practitioners engage systematic flexibility and control protocols designed for no-gi success.
Choosing 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu equips martial artists with a forward-thinking, no-gi system that enhances real-world readiness, physical conditioning, and creative grappling innovation. Its signature moves, inclusive community, and impact on MMA and submission-only formats underscore a philosophy of constant evolution. Whether you aim to excel in competitive arenas or develop practical self-defense skills, 10th Planet’s unique curriculum offers a clear pathway from beginner fundamentals to advanced mastery. Embracing this system leads to a transformative training experience grounded in adaptability, innovation, and collective support.
