

Stop Winning the "Tuesday Afternoon Battle": John Danaher’s Guide to Rapid BJJ Progress
We’ve all seen it (and likely done it). It’s 3:00 PM on a random Tuesday, and two blue belts are rolling like their lives depend on it. They are sweating, grunting, and refusing to give an inch, terrified that losing a training round somehow diminishes their worth as a martial artist. According to legendary coach John Danaher , this is the single biggest mistake Jiu-Jitsu athletes make. Training isn’t about winning or losing; it’s about skill development . You aren't remember


The “Gym Divorce”: Navigating the Politics and Emotions of Leaving Your BJJ Academy
Leaving your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) academy is a topic that’s rarely discussed openly, yet it’s a reality many practitioners face. Whether it’s a result of relocation, a disagreement with an instructor, or evolving personal goals, the decision to move on from your gym—often referred to as a “gym divorce”—can be emotionally charged and politically tricky. Why Leaving Your BJJ Gym Is a Taboo Topic Most BJJ practitioners spend years at a single academy, forming strong bonds w


BJJ and the Aging Brain : How Grappling Fights Cognitive Decline
Master Helio Gracie in his 90s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is increasingly recognised not only for its physical benefits but also for its...


I Don't Eat Acai or Own a Bulldog: Confessions of a BJJ Outsider
Let me start with a confession that might get me excommunicated from the jiu-jitsu community: I don't live the "BJJ lifestyle." Heck, I...


Don't Half-Ass It: The Secret to Longevity in BJJ
We often talk about "discipline" in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. We talk about the grind, the embrace of the suck, and the sheer willpower it takes to get to the gym after a long day of work. But what if we’re looking at it wrong? I recently watched a clip from Tim Ferriss’s interview with legendary investor Bill Gurley , and it touched on a concept that completely reframes how we should approach our training. It starts with a story about Matthew McConaughey, but it ends with a lesso


BJJ Without Guilt: Why We Reject Tribalism at the Jiu-Jitsu Foundry
The "Pie" is Big Enough for Everyone I have been on the mats for a long time. Being 55 years old gives you a certain perspective on life and the martial arts world—you see trends come and go, you see gyms rise and fall, and you see the very best of Jiu-Jitsu culture, along with some of the worst. As we celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Jiu-Jitsu Foundry this January 2026, I’ve been reflecting on what has kept us strong for a decade here in Petaling Jaya/Klang Valley. It


The Heart & Hustle of Jiu-Jitsu: Balancing Generosity & Sustainability: Our Commitment to Our Members
Today marks the 10th anniversary of The Jiu-Jitsu Foundry . Over the years, we’ve stayed true to what matters most: building skills, supporting each other, and pushing through adversity on and off the mats. We know the hardest challenges aren’t always about a tight triangle or a tough roll—sometimes life throws obstacles our way: losing a job, dealing with a family crisis, or unexpected financial stress. When this happens, paying for your membership can feel overwhelming. Wha


















