Tuesday, 7/26:
King of the hill. I’ve always had respect for this training exercise, but I’ve never been able to “hold the hill” for more than a match or two. This time I did the best I’ve ever done at king of the hill. I was among the first 8 students on the mat, placed in the position to pass guard. After passing the guard I managed to land 2 triangles and a hip sweep, holding my spot on the hill. And boy was it tiring. Fortunately the exercise ended shortly after my 4th match — I doubt I could have gone much longer.
Our tech of the day was the basic pass from top half guard. Assume your right leg is trapped in half guard. Begin by underhooking your opponent’s left arm with your right, then getting your left arm under your opponent’s head, driving your left shoulder into his chin to force his head to his left. Next, place your forehead on the mat beside his head, on the same side that you have underhooked. Pop up onto the ball of the foot that is trapped. Use the foot of your other leg to hook in beside your trapped leg, pushing to create space. Use little popping movements to get your leg out, but try to keep your hips low so that you are not easily swept. Once your leg is free, slide right into top mount.