Navigation - Posture: Static And Dynamic

Understanding proper navigation is crucial to avoid getting caught in guillotines and to provide effective defense or offense. Navigation is akin to knowing where you're going, much like not closing your eyes while driving. A common mistake is looking at the space you want to enter, which can lead to being blindsided by a guillotine. High-level practitioners maintain a visual on their opponent and frame until they can safely move underneath.

Static and dynamic postures are essential for maintaining balance and control. A static posture is like sitting back on your heels with your toes on the ground, which allows you to feel where your weight is distributed. Dynamic posture involves shifting weight and testing stability, like moving into a kickstand position without falling over. This is practiced by sliding one leg back and forth while keeping the base constant.

Another concept is the 'pyramid' or 'tetrahedron' shape, which is the most stable structure. Practitioners should practice maintaining this shape with their toes on the ground and shifting weight to each side to test stability. The 'squashing pyramids' posture involves keeping forearms wide like knees and butt back towards heels, then sliding out to a kickstand and back, ensuring elbows stay connected as if controlling an opponent.

The 'torus' shape focuses on balance where the ears and eyes are. If balance is an issue, more dexterity in the feet is needed. Hands should follow the eyes, similar to a tightrope walker, to maintain control while shifting weight to each kickstand position.

These postures and navigation principles are fundamental for avoiding mistakes, maintaining control, and setting up successful attacks in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.