Neil Melanson BJJ Instructional Videos (Free Techniques by Position)

In the video "BJJ Moves - Half and Half," instructor Neil Melanson demonstrates a technique called the crab attack from the half guard position. He explains how to effectively control an opponent's movements by using pressure and positioning, focusing on maintaining control of the bottom leg and preventing the opponent from escaping. Melanson emphasizes the importance of grip placement and body positioning to set up further attacks, such as stepping

Neil Melanson demonstrates a toe hold technique, emphasizing the importance of positioning and leverage. He advises using the knee's position to set up the hold and explains how to protect the outside while grabbing the opponent's toes. Melanson details the mechanics of sliding back into position and maintaining control by keeping the opponent's knee off the ground to prevent escape. He concludes with a reminder to adjust body positioning for optimal

The video features Neil Melanson demonstrating a grappling technique called "Funk Roll." He explains how to block an opponent's movement, secure an underhook, and maintain control to force a submission, emphasizing the importance of head control during the maneuver.

The video features Neil Melanson teaching a grappling technique called the "Manly Choke," a variation of the guillotine choke that can be applied from the top position in half guard. Melanson explains the mechanics of the choke, emphasizing the importance of hand positioning and body movement to create effective pressure. He demonstrates how to lock the choke by grabbing an "upside-down cable" and turning

Neil Melanson discusses techniques in catch wrestling to control an opponent in half guard. He emphasizes the importance of using underhooks and wizards to maintain control, prevent scrambles, and apply pressure. Melanson demonstrates how to tie up the opponent's leg while using a wizard to keep them down, highlighting the mechanics of shifting weight and positioning to achieve dominance. He also explains the concept of "low shelving

The video features Neil Melanson demonstrating a near side under hook half guard pass, incorporating a leg triangle option. He explains the technique, starting with a leg Turk to gain the underhook position, followed by flaring elbows and applying pressure to the opponent's head. He details the knee cut and the transition to a figure four lock, emphasizing the flow of the movements and the importance of adjusting to maintain

Neil Melanson demonstrates a basic single leg sweep from half guard, emphasizing head position and hip protection. He explains the importance of staying active and maintaining control while executing the sweep. The technique involves securing the opponent's wrist, using proper body mechanics, and transitioning to a dominant position after the sweep. Melanson highlights the need to protect oneself during the maneuver and offers tips for maintaining control and setting up further

The video features Neil Melanson demonstrating a catch wrestling technique called the "cradle cradle sequence." Melanson, a respected MMA coach, explains how this technique can be used for controlling opponents, setting up submissions, and passing guard in grappling. He emphasizes the importance of timing and adaptability when applying the cradle, particularly against opponents who are trying to escape or defend. The technique is presented as a versatile

The video features Neil Melanson, a renowned grappling instructor, demonstrating leg locks, specifically the F leg lock, from the half guard position. He emphasizes the importance of controlling the opponent's movement and maintaining a strong position to prevent sweeps. Melanson shares techniques for staying patient and blocking the opponent's leg while preparing to execute the leg lock.

The video features Neil Melanson demonstrating the "Snap Guard," a technique that transitions from a guard position to a snap down position, incorporating elements from catch wrestling and grappling. Melanson emphasizes the importance of controlling the opponent's knee and using the shin wizard as a key tool. He aims to teach a unique approach to gaining top position that differs from traditional sweeps in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

In the video "3 Directions Of Movement," Neil Melanson discusses three key movements to use when in someone's closed guard: forward (stacking), upward (posture), and backward (docking out). He emphasizes the importance of choosing the correct movement based on the opponent's techniques and tie-ups to avoid getting caught in unfavorable positions. Melanson advocates for simplicity in techniques and maintaining a mindset focused on

Neil Melanson discusses the technique of grapevining in grappling, explaining its advantages and disadvantages. He describes how to effectively execute grapevines by using hooks on the opponent's ankles and emphasizes the importance of lifting to break posture. Melanson highlights the transition from grapevines to butterfly guard and their utility in sweeps. He also notes potential downsides, such as being smothered if

The video features Neil Melanson discussing techniques for improving guard play in grappling. He emphasizes the importance of leg and foot control to slow down an opponent's movements, particularly when attempting submissions like triangles. Melanson highlights the significance of angles in maintaining control and executing attacks, advocating for getting off the center line to reduce friction and enhance mobility. He shares his personal style of smothering opponents and demonstrates

The video features Neil Melanson discussing the "head up hips in" position in grappling. He emphasizes the importance of using body positioning to control opponents, particularly focusing on the advantages of athleticism in fighting. Melanson demonstrates how to transition into an ankle lace submission from this position, detailing the mechanics of folding the legs and securing control. He advises on hand placement and the use of body weight to

Neil Melanson demonstrates the Helicopter Triangle technique, primarily from half guard but adaptable from full guard. He explains the setup involving a cross grip and knee shield, addressing common defensive reactions from opponents. The technique involves releasing the elbow grip, re-grabbing the other arm, and executing a roll while positioning the foot outside the opponent's leg. Melanson emphasizes the importance of hip movement and finishing the triangle

Neil Melanson demonstrates the knee push technique, emphasizing the importance of positioning and leverage, especially when dealing with heavier opponents. He discusses using a foot on the knee to create space and facilitate movement, drawing on his judo background for insights. The technique involves pushing and pulling to manipulate an opponent's weight, allowing for effective transitions and control during groundwork. Melanson stresses the importance of adapting techniques based on

Neil Melanson demonstrates a technique for switching sides during a knee push to the back in grappling. He explains how to transition from a traditional scissor sweep to a knee push when the sweep isn't successful. Melanson emphasizes the importance of winning the scramble over achieving a back mount and shares tips on creating space, using wrist control, and mixing techniques for better effectiveness. He highlights that switching sides can confuse

Neil Melanson demonstrates a technique for executing a far side arm bar from a cross body position. He emphasizes the importance of controlling the opponent's shoulder and head to create discomfort and limit their movement. By using specific hand placements and body positioning, he aims to manipulate the opponent's breathing and focus, making it easier to secure the arm bar. The instruction includes practical tips and tricks learned from other grappling

Neil Melanson demonstrates a guillotine choke setup from a Kimura attack. He emphasizes controlling the opponent's wrist and using an unassuming approach to transition into the choke. After establishing grip and positioning, he instructs on adjusting his hips and waiting for the opponent's movement to secure the choke effectively.

Neil Melanson teaches the "Power Kimura," emphasizing a tight grip and proper positioning. He highlights the importance of keeping the arm bent and using the crook of the elbow to create pressure. The technique involves hugging the opponent's arm to prevent it from straightening, positioning the hips effectively, and applying pressure to the joint. Melanson demonstrates how to use body movement to enhance the grip and control

Neil Melanson teaches the "Power Kimura," emphasizing a tight grip and proper positioning to apply pressure effectively. He highlights the importance of keeping the arm bent and using the crook of the elbow to create a strong hold. Melanson demonstrates how to position the hips and head to maximize leverage, ensuring the opponent cannot escape. The technique is described as powerful and effective, especially against strong opponents.

Neil Melanson explains the cradle system, focusing on proper grip and positioning. He emphasizes using a strong grip with elbows pinched to secure the opponent's head and leg. Melanson advises against relying solely on hand strength, suggesting a butterfly grip for better control. He demonstrates techniques for transitioning from near side to far side cradle, highlighting the importance of keeping the hold tight and using body positioning effectively.

Neil Melanson teaches the fundamentals of the arm-in guillotine choke, emphasizing the importance of leg positioning and hip alignment. He explains how to properly align the head and hips to ensure effective choking mechanics, highlighting the differences in positioning when the head is on one side versus the other. Proper alignment is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of the choke, particularly in an arm-in guillotine scenario.

Neil Melanson demonstrates a variation of the guillotine choke, emphasizing the importance of positioning the grip slightly deeper on the opponent's neck, locking the Gable grip, and effectively moving the opponent's head to create pressure for a successful choke.

Neil Melanson demonstrates the Hand Gun Guillotine Choke, explaining how to position the opponent's head under your armpit and create pressure by pushing your forearms and elbows together. This technique prevents the opponent from rotating their head, leading to quick taps.

Neil Melanson demonstrates the high elbow guillotine as a counter to a double leg takedown, emphasizing a tight grip to secure the submission before hitting the ground.

Neil Melanson introduces a new grappling submission technique from the K-Guard, which he developed and named "K control." He explains that this guard focuses on attacking the legs first to disrupt the opponent's posture, making it easier to transition to upper body attacks. Melanson emphasizes the effectiveness of this approach in both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA, as it forces opponents to react defensively,

Neil Melanson demonstrates a technique called the "Shuck to Arm Triangle," which can be executed from a standing position or while on the bottom. He explains how to set up the move by manipulating the opponent's neck and tricep to create an opening for the arm triangle choke. The technique involves pulling on the opponent's head and shifting their weight to make their legs lighter, allowing for a successful

Neil Melanson demonstrates a grappling technique called the "Boa Head & Arm," focusing on transitioning from a near-side cradle to a towel catcher and then to a choke. He emphasizes maintaining tight control, adjusting weight, and using knee positioning to secure the opponent's arm. Melanson explains the importance of staying mobile and being able to switch between offensive positions, highlighting the effectiveness of the choke when executed correctly

The video features Neil Melanson teaching the "Pullback Triangle" technique in grappling. He explains its application when an opponent counters a technique by ducking under or missing a leg throw. Melanson demonstrates how to transition into the Pullback Triangle from a position where he holds the opponent's shoulder, pushing them away and whipping his leg over their head. He emphasizes the effectiveness of this technique, noting

The video features Neil Melanson demonstrating a technique called the "SHIN WHIZZER FUNK ROLL to SWITCH DARCE." He explains the steps involved in achieving control, transitioning to a cradle, and executing a grip to successfully maneuver into a dominant position. The focus is on maintaining tight control and using body positioning to facilitate the move.

The video features Neil Melanson demonstrating the Shoulder Pin Arm Bar technique, emphasizing the importance of knee pinching to create labrum pressure and secure the position. He instructs on maintaining posture, tucking the chin, and squeezing the knees to achieve a successful submission.

Neil Melanson demonstrates a deadly grappling choke from the cradle position, emphasizing its effectiveness in countering scrambles during Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He explains how to transition into the cradle by using an underhook and controlling the opponent's head, forcing them to react and create openings. Melanson highlights the importance of locking the cradle properly to maintain control and prevent the opponent from escaping.

Neil Melanson demonstrates techniques for using ankle control in grappling to escape from turtle position and gain an advantage. He explains how to leverage the ankle as a tool to manipulate the opponent's hips and upper body, facilitating escapes and scrambles. Melanson emphasizes the importance of being the first to get to one's feet in MMA for striking opportunities and outlines strategies for turning and lifting the ankle to improve positioning.

Neil Melanson demonstrates a technique called "Circling To The Back," focusing on wrist control and head positioning to evade opponents and gain advantageous positions. He emphasizes the importance of practicing this drill to create easier opportunities in grappling, especially when feeling fatigued. The technique involves circling away from the opponent while pinning their wrist to the mat, allowing for a transition to the back or other positions.

The video features Neil Melanson demonstrating a technique called the "One on One to Kimura" from a turtle position in grappling. He explains how to establish a one-on-one grip, transition into a dominant position, and finish with a Kimura lock. Melanson emphasizes the importance of maintaining control and offers various options for movement and attacks from this position, highlighting its relevance in MMA and wrestling.

Neil Melanson demonstrates a technique for transitioning to a dominant position in grappling by controlling the opponent's head and using weight shifts to maneuver behind them.

Neil Melanson demonstrates the Catch Wrestling Crucifix technique, focusing on transitioning from a bottom position to a front headlock, using momentum to secure control, and executing a power half. He emphasizes the importance of body movement and positioning to maintain dominance over the opponent.

Neil Melanson demonstrates the Dragon Sleeper option, a grappling technique for maintaining control or setting up a choke from the back position. He explains how to manipulate the opponent's arm while hand fighting, using movements similar to an armbar to secure the position. The technique involves hooking the opponent's arm and leveraging body mechanics to finish the move effectively, emphasizing adaptability based on the opponent's posture.

In the BJJ Fanatics Podcast episode 645, host Ryan Ford interviews grappling coach Neil Melanson, who discusses the origins of the "K guard," a technique he developed influenced by his friend Caro. Melanson, a black belt in various grappling disciplines and a veteran coach, shares insights from his extensive experience training elite fighters and his contributions to grappling literature. The episode highlights his

Neil Melanson demonstrates a downward arm control grip to counter a corner lock in MMA. He explains transitioning to a half spider position while maintaining control of the opponent's arm. The technique involves off-balancing the opponent by hooking their leg, creating opportunities for sweeps or submissions. Melanson emphasizes proper grip placement and the mechanics of applying a kimura, focusing on using the body effectively to execute the move

Neil Melanson demonstrates a Kimura variation from K Guard, emphasizing the importance of off-balancing the opponent and transitioning to secure grips before executing the technique.

Neil Melanson demonstrates a pendulum sweep setup leading to an arm triangle submission. He emphasizes the importance of getting the opponent to post their hand voluntarily rather than forcing the move. The technique involves controlling the opponent's wrists and using hip movement to create openings. Melanson explains the mechanics of the sweep, including pummeling under the leg, shifting weight, and securing the arm triangle position. He also

In the video, Neil Melanson teaches the arm triangle choke in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). He emphasizes the importance of proper positioning, specifically placing the crook of the bicep behind the neck for an effective squeeze. Melanson demonstrates using one hand to drill the choke, explaining that the head position is crucial for applying pressure correctly. He advises against pushing the shoulder away from the

Neil Melanson demonstrates techniques for countering a ball splitter when attempting a triangle choke. He emphasizes off-balancing the opponent by hooking their leg and pulling their wrist to create space. If the opponent resists, he suggests using a scissor motion to maintain control and potentially transition to a wrist lock or triangle. Additionally, if the opponent tries to reinsert their arm, Melanson advises using the sc

The video features Neil Melanson teaching techniques for dealing with the closed guard in no-gi grappling. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining pressure and control while transitioning to a "head up hips in" position to limit the opponent's movement. Melanson demonstrates how to open the guard and move into saddle positions, focusing on keeping the opponent's legs jammed to prevent escapes. The instructional aims to provide

Neil Melanson demonstrates a counter technique called the "revolver" for when an opponent attempts a double leg takedown while being choked. He explains that if the opponent blades their body to relieve pressure from the choke, they cannot post, allowing the practitioner to roll them over. This maneuver enables the practitioner to regain a dominant position, either standing up or securing the opponent's legs for a

The video features Neil Melanson demonstrating a simple wrestling technique called the "Toe Step Single." He explains how to execute the move by stepping on an opponent's foot while performing a single-leg takedown, making it difficult for them to counter. Melanson emphasizes that this technique is effective for those who may not feel comfortable shooting low and serves as a shortcut in grappling, allowing wrestlers to maintain

Neil Melanson demonstrates a triangle choke technique, emphasizing the importance of maintaining tightness with the legs and positioning the knee higher to prevent the opponent from escaping. He advises curling in and squeezing the hips, while also integrating arm movements to enhance the effectiveness of the hold.

Neil Melanson demonstrates a triangle choke technique, emphasizing grip, positioning, and mobility. He explains how to create pressure and leverage while maintaining control over the opponent's movements. The technique involves using the knee to establish a strong base, isolating the opponent's arm, and finishing the choke by pulling in and locking the position.

Neil Melanson demonstrates the BJJ Patella Lock from the Navy ride position, emphasizing control over the opponent's leg. He explains how to hook the kneecap properly and apply pressure to create pain without relying on strength. The technique involves twisting the knee to potentially cause damage, while also discussing transitions to other techniques like leg locks and MMA setups.

Neil Melanson demonstrates a grappling technique called the "Crab Ride Cross Face Chicken Wing." He emphasizes maintaining a low base and proper leg positioning to control the opponent. Melanson explains how to transition from a tight waist to a crab ride, using body positioning to apply pressure and create leverage for a shoulder lock. He also mentions the effectiveness of combining this move with a downward arm crank, highlighting its

Neil Melanson demonstrates a technique for transitioning from an armbar to a spin through when an opponent stands up to escape. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining control and adjusting to the opponent's movements to avoid being slammed. By pushing on the opponent's leg and pulling his head between their legs, Melanson shows how to off-balance them and complete the technique effectively.

Neil Melanson demonstrates an effective entry into the shin whizzer position, emphasizing his preference for a hip-based approach over traditional butterfly guard. He explains the benefits of this method, including better control and the ability to transition into various positions. Melanson shares his personal experiences and preferences, highlighting the importance of adapting techniques to what works best for the individual. He also discusses the significance of creating reactions from opponents

The video features Neil Melanson demonstrating a technique called the BOA HEAD and ARM. He explains the steps involved, including transitioning from a cradle to a cow catcher, positioning the opponent's shoulder, and applying pressure with hips to secure control, with an option to move to the back.

Neil Melanson demonstrates a variation of the north-south choke called the "butcher shop north-south choke." He explains the positioning and mechanics involved, emphasizing the use of pressure and body positioning to effectively execute the move. The technique involves using the knee under the opponent's head and transitioning to apply pressure on the neck, making it a powerful choke that can be effective even for those who may not

Neil Melanson demonstrates the hip bump technique from the octopus position, explaining how to counter pressure, reposition, and secure a pin.

The video features Neil Melanson demonstrating leg locks, emphasizing the importance of maintaining posture, winning hand fights, and using twisting motions to control the opponent. He highlights the need for aggressive exchanges and proper positioning to prevent the opponent from escaping.