Andre Galvao's Drill to Win: 12 Months to Better Jiu Jitsu

RRP: £30.00

Andre Galvao’s grappling credentials are without question, so when you have the opportunity to learn even a small amount of what he has to offer, you should jump at the chance.

In ‘Drill to Win’ Galvao sets about giving readers a thorough understanding of the oft overlooked, but massively important, drilling in BJJ. First impressions of the book are that it is big, colourful and well constructed; this will take the abuse of being in and out of the gym bag, to and from class, with relative ease. A quick flick through the book shows that there are a huge amount of techniques, all backed up by beautiful illustrations and accurate instructions.

The book itself is very well written; it opens with a miniature, and refreshingly frank biography of Galvao and how he came to be the Jiu Jitsu phenomenon that he is today. It’s reassuring to know that someone who overcame poverty and chronic asthma became the multiple time BJJ world champion, and is now guiding you through your own journey.

The structure of the book is excellent. It begins with a comprehensive index (an often overlooked, but essential component) before starting into the structured drill program. The program itself is set out in days, weeks and months (as the title suggests, the book is meant to cover you for the next 12 months) with training taking place three to four days per week.

Galvao is realistic and honest when he informs the reader that the new drilling programme is not going to take the place of their usual routine, but rather, when used to supplement their routine they should see massive gains in their performance. As with all good programmes of this nature it highlights the need for improved diet; Galvao tells us that it is the foundation upon which the rest of his BJJ is formed. The book then sets about a course of effective drills, each chapter building on the skills developed in the last. Users can quite easily pick and choose drills to suit their specific needs, or to create their own circuit. However, to get the most use of the book readers should follow the book from cover to cover, in order.

In conclusion, the book is excellent and will become a valuable asset to any BJJ practitioner who follows it. The drills in the book are also substantially good for developing general health and fitness, alongside sport specific technique.

A very special thanks to the folks over at Victory Belt Publishing for sending me this copy to review.