I recently had the opportunity to do some Stand Up Paddle Boarding and really enjoyed the time on the lake. The water was cold and crisp and it was refreshing to jump in after paddling on the lake for a while.

During my time on the lake I noticed a few connections with jiujitsu. When paddle boarding you can sit down or stand up, but you can go much faster when you stand up. However, your base is somewhat compromised when you stand up. There is an inverse relationship between speed and balance on the paddle board. That means when you are lower on the board (sitting) you have a stronger base, but your speed is not fast. When you stand up on the board (higher) your base is somewhat compromised but you can go much much faster.

The same inverse relationship is true for someone passing and attacking the guard. The guard passer can move much faster when they are on their feet, but their base can be compromised much easier. When the guard passer is lower to the ground, they can’t move as fast but their base is stabilized significantly.

I thought this relationship was interesting. I would go out on a limb and say that it might even be a universal norm. The idea that as the hips get further away from from the feet the base is more compromised but movement is faster. Let’s call this idea, the speed-elevation relationship.

In addition to the idea of the speed-elevation relationship, there is a kinetic chain that is important to consider. The chain linking the hips, knees, and feet. This chain is very important. (try running without bending your knees, you won’d go very fast) Opposite to the speed-elevation relationship, engaging the hips, knees, and feet result in an increase of speed and base. Therefore, learn how to engage your entire lower body as you go through different elevations of movement. Doing so will help you develop a type of passing that has both speed and strong base.