Episode 134

E134 | Bonus | Everything You Want is Downstream: Stop Forcing, Start Flowing in BJJ

Published on: 19th March, 2026

About This Episode

In this episode, I dive into the concept of "Downstream" Jiu-Jitsu. I explore how fighting upstream, forcing techniques that aren't there leads to wasted energy and missed opportunities. I share personal experiences from a recent workshop and practical examples of how resisting a roadblock can actually lead you to your next best submission. Whether you are a white belt struggling with "spazzing" or a coach looking for better ways to explain transitions, this episode is about learning to take what your opponent suggests.

Takeaways

  1. Stop Fighting Upstream: If you have to work too hard for a submission, you’re likely ignoring a better path that your opponent has already opened for you.
  2. The "Side Street" Strategy: When you hit a roadblock in your A-game, don't just stop. Use your knowledge to find the "side streets" that lead to the same destination.
  3. Let Them Suggest the Move: Tactical Jiu-Jitsu isn't about forcing a response; it’s about eliciting a response and then taking advantage of exactly what they give you.

Chapters

  1. 0:00 – Introduction to the Downstream Concept
  2. 1:18 – The Trap of "Forcing It"
  3. 2:40 – The Empty Spot: Lessons from a Passing Workshop
  4. 3:45 – Practical Examples: Collar Drags and Ankle Picks
  5. 5:50 – Transitioning to the Americana & Armbar
  6. 8:15 – Using the Triangle to Find the Omoplata
  7. 9:50 – Marrying Techniques: The Seatbelt to Armbar
  8. 11:00 – The Roadblock: Getting Home via Side Streets
  9. 13:10 – The Power of Private Lessons and Feedback
  10. 15:00 – Final Thoughts: Be Like Water

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David Figueroa-Martinez

Founder, DFM Coaching Bjj

Coach | Writer | Grappler

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About the Podcast

Tapped In: A JiuJitsu Podcast
A Bjj/Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Podcast By DFM Coaching
I am a dedicated practitioner and coach on a mission to help you navigate the complex, rewarding world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Whether you are a White Belt trying to survive your first stripe or a seasoned grappler looking for a competitive edge, I created this show to be your technical and mental mat-side companion.

In every episode of Tapped In, I break down the nuances of submission grappling. I dive deep into the Jiu-Jitsu lifestyle, discussing how to overcome mat burnout, manage BJJ injuries, and develop the "black belt mindset" both on and off the mats.

Why Listen to Me?
Beyond my fifteen years on the mats, I’ve had the honor of sharing my philosophy as a recurring guest on BJJ Mental Models and Fighting Matters. I believe in a structured tactical approach and I bring that same level of high-level conceptual analysis to every episode of this show.

The Training Schedule:
I know your time is valuable. That’s why I release three new episodes every week, each designed to fit perfectly into your daily routine. With a runtime of 14–24 minutes, these episodes are built to give you tactical clarity in the time it takes to drive to the academy or finish a warm-up.

If you live for the grind, the flow, and the constant pursuit of the tap, this podcast is for you. Subscribe and let's level up your game, one episode at a time.

About your host

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David Figueroa-Martinez

I’m David Figueroa-Martinez, Jiu-Jitsu black belt, mindset coach, and founder of Tapped In. This podcast isn’t for hype or highlight reels. It’s for grapplers who train with purpose.

I teach structure, not chaos. Mindset, not ego. Progress, not performance.

Through each episode, I share grounded lessons from the mats, the mind, and the moments that shape who we become, as athletes, as leaders, and as people.

I also run DFM Coaching, where I help White and Blue Belts build clarity and structure through personalized systems, and write Choke Point Chronicles, a weekly series diving deep into strategy, growth, and culture in Jiu-Jitsu.

Whether you’re a White Belt looking for direction or a black belt trying to stay sharp without selling your soul, this is where we train the inner game.