The Purple Guide to Learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 10 Days

I appreciated the honesty—this is not a 'become a black belt in a week' book. The first chapter scared me a little because it described how tired I actually felt on day one, but in a good way. I wish the next chapters had a bit more video links or references, but as a starting point, it's solid. I finished day one feeling like I did something real, not just read a bunch of theory.

The book convinced me to try BJJ at a real gym, which is probably the best outcome. Day one felt realistic, and the 'small win' of just staying on the mat for 10 minutes is something I could actually do. The only reason I'm giving it 3 stars is that I felt a little lost on day two about my budget—the checklist helped, but I still didn't know if a $150 gi was worth it. Still, it's a fair guide for what it promises.

I've been wanting to try BJJ for three years but was too scared of being 'that new guy.' This guide changes everything. The description of day one—the smell of the mats, the awkwardness of trying to just sit properly—was so accurate it made me laugh. But then it gave me a concrete job: 3 technical stand-ups and a 10-minute mat sit. I did it in my living room. I feel like I've started. This is exactly the push I needed.

It's a decent beginner's map. The day one chapter was spot-on about the panic of being on the ground with someone's knee on you. The author doesn't sugarcoat that you'll feel clumsy. The milestones table on day seven helped me realize I wasn't behind schedule—I just needed to practice the sweep more. I docked one star because I found day two's checklist a bit too heavy; I just wanted to know 'can I afford a gi or not.' But overall, it's a good honest start.

The technical stand-up on day four is worth the price of the book alone. I practiced it on carpet for 20 minutes and actually felt my balance improve. The guide broke it into steps that made sense: hand on the floor, foot flat, swing the leg around. By day ten, I could do it without thinking. It's not flashy, but I finally understand why BJJ guys say 'position before submission.' This is a real plan, not a motivational poster.

I bought this because I wanted to see if I could 'handle' BJJ before spending money on a gym. The honesty in the first chapter—about the sweat, the confusion, the little wins—was exactly what I needed. My favorite part was the day seven milestones table: it told me that being able to do 10 technical stand-ups in a row by day ten was a realistic goal, and I actually hit it. It feels good to have a plan I can trust.

As a 5'2" person, I was worried BJJ was only for taller, stronger people. This guide explains that technique beats size, and the first technique you learn—the guard sweep—is built around using leverage, not strength. The day-by-day format kept me accountable. I never felt lost or stupid, which is rare for a beginner's guide. The chapter on buying gear even saved me from wasting $200 on a fancy gi I didn't need yet.

The Day 8 narrative was the most honest representation of practice I've ever read. I recognized myself when the author described losing balance on the sweep and having to start over. It felt reassuring that frustration is part of the process. The book made me realize that solo practice is not a substitute for a class, but it's the perfect way to build confidence before stepping on a mat with strangers. I'm planning my first gym visit after day ten.