Improve your BJJ game by mastering "Positive Gripping." Learn why gripping with a purpose leads to more submissions and better control. Success in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu begins with the very first contact you make with your opponent. John Danaher emphasizes the importance of positive gripping—gripping with a specific offensive purpose—over negative gripping, which only seeks to deny the opponent. Mastering this BJJ fundamental ensures that every grip you take leads you toward a submission. Position Overview Positive gripping is applied from any position, including standing or seated guard. It is the tactical decision to assert your own control rather than simply reacting to the opponent's movements. Key Concepts Positive vs. Negative: Positive gripping is "gripping for a purpose," while negative gripping is purely defensive and leads to "boring" matches. Grip with a Purpose: Knowing exactly what attack or sweep a grip is meant to set up before you take it. Attacking Cycles: Using initial grips to force a reaction that opens up your true target. Inexorable Progress: Following a sequence of grips that leads "inexorably" to a goal, such as a leg entanglement Pro Tips from High-Level Grapplers Bait the Reaction: A positive grip should "threaten" something to force the opponent to move in a predictable way. Assert Your Will: High-level competitors always try to "assert a grip upon their opponent with a purpose" rather than playing a passive game. Key Takeaways Positive gripping is the spirit of effective Jiu-Jitsu. Always have a clear sense of what you want to achieve. Don't just deny your opponent; assert your own control