Spencer County Martial Arts

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu of Kentucky -- New Blog

2010-04-12T09:45:00.002-04:00

Our blog has moved! Please check http://www.graciekentucky.blogspot.com/ for the latest updates concerning information about our Academy, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu of Kentucky.

Gracie: Guard is the Key Against Hughes

2010-04-05T14:06:00.000-04:00

Gracie: Guard is the Key Against Hughes

by Greg Savage (greg@sherdog.com)
Brazilian jiu-jitsu legend Renzo Gracie will take on iconic welterweight Matt Hughes at UFC 112 “Invincible,” the company’s inaugural Middle East event, and he took some time out of his busy training schedule to sit down with Sherdog.com to discuss his preparations for the bout and his philosophy on the art he has dedicated his life to.

Gracie will be returning to the arena for the first time in over three years for his Octagon debut. Check out this exclusive video interview to hear one of the true gentlemen of the sport talk about his family lineage, his punching prowess and the decision-making process that led to his return to MMA at 43 years of age.

http://www.sherdog.com/news/articles/Gracie-Guard-is-the-Key-Against-Hughes-23659

Using Flow Diagrams « Jiu-Jitsu Brotherhood – a global Jiu-Jitsu resource

2010-03-28T18:53:00.000-04:00

Check out this article on utilizing flow charts to help strengthen your jiu-jitsu strategy, courtesy of the jiu-jitsu brotherhood.

Using Flow Diagrams « Jiu-Jitsu Brotherhood – a global Jiu-Jitsu resource

Doctors Call Bradley Wilson A Miracle

2010-03-28T18:43:00.000-04:00

Here's an article on Spencer County Martial Arts' own Bradley Wilson. A hero, fighter and the toughest young man you'll ever meet.

http://www.southeastchristian.org/outlook/story.aspx?id=2230

Gracie Insider Tip of the Month -- Americana Counters

2010-03-24T20:58:00.000-04:00

Great tips on countering the Americana, courtesy of Rener Gracie. Very detailed explanation on how to prevent a common submission.

Be careful, however, on leaving your free arm exposed and away from your body as you bridge -- it could lead to your opponent transitioning into an arm bar on the opposite side.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CixH-SzPI5w

Kron Gracie vs. Phillipe Della Monica

2010-03-14T23:36:00.001-04:00

Check out the latest competition footage of Kron Gracie. Excellent transitions, defense...everything. Simple, effective jiu-jitsu -- works every time.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EiI_2ILqoA0

Rener Gracie vs. 21

2010-02-28T19:26:00.000-05:00

Very cool videos -- while in Florida, Rener Gracie had the chance to spar with 33 members of the Jacksonville SWAT team and Police Department. About half of them were experienced grapplers and the other half were new to jiu-jitsu, but all of them were in determined to win. The batteries in the camera died during the 21st match so you don’t get see the last 12 submissions. Check it out...
“Fighting 33 opponents is like fighting a giant, you don’t decide when you win, they decide when they lose. “

-Rener Gracie

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONudrmJwL-M

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tGzI9Q0Mb1M&feature=player_embedded

Andrei Arlovski vs. Marcelo Garcia

2010-02-23T11:34:00.000-05:00

This is a good display of Marcelo Garcia's technical ability against a much larger and stronger opponent. Andrei Arlovski, who weighs in at around 240 and is a former UFC champ, is no push-over on the ground. Marcelo uses some excellent transitions and proper weight distribution to neutralize Andrei's size and strength advantage.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HVju68pMQ9Y&feature=player_embedded

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B1KUZ1pJLvg&feature=player_embedded

Turn Your Open Mat into a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Laboratory

2010-02-16T22:26:00.000-05:00

Here's a great article Scott Sale found, courtesy of Matt Kirtley from Aesopian BJJ:

Turn Your Open Mat into a BJJ Laboratory

I’m going to make a bold assumption: You want to get better at BJJ. (I

must be a mind reader.) Open mat can be a secret weapon in your

training if you use it right. These tips will help make sure you do.

Go in with a purpose

What makes open mat good is also what makes it bad: you can do

whatever you want. Without someone running class, it’s all too easy to

waste time, goof off or simply not know what to do. Go in prepared

giving yourself a goal.

Examples:

– Improve move X.

– Improve my escapes.

– Improve my conditioning.

– Try out this new guard.

– Review my basics.

Try picking a topic—a certain position, submission, guard or even

concept—and set your mind on exploring and learning it in depth. It’s

easier to stay focused when you know what you’re focusing on.

It’s time to experiment

Now is your chance to put that encyclopedic knowledge of every BJJ

instructional to use. Is there a move that’s been making waves in

competition that you want to learn? You could bring a laptop or iPhone

to watch instructionals then drill them.

Forget this piece of advice if it doesn’t line up with your goals.

Sometimes drilling those same basics you’ve known forever is the right

thing to do (at least it’s never wrong.)

Don’t get technique overload

Just because you’re free to do whatever you want doesn’t mean you

should pull out every technique you’ve ever Youtubed. Get two

experienced guys on the mat and it can quickly turn into technique

show and tell (“Hey, check this out!” “That reminds me of this…” “You

gotta see how I do it…”) Keep your goals in mind and don’t get too far

off track (unless it’s really something worth checking out.)

Put in the reps

Once you’ve figured out what you want to work on, start drilling. Then

keep drilling. Discipline yourself to put in a healthy number of

repetitions. No skimping on your reps because you don’t have an

instructor keeping his hawk eyes on you. I’m sorry if this is boring

but it’s good for you.

Find the right training partner

Who you train with can make or break an open mat. If they aren’t as

motivated as you, it’s a pain to force them to drill when all they

want to do is talk and spar a bit. You’re better off with a white belt

that has a good worth ethic and is eager to learn than a lazy purple

belt that doesn’t really feel like breaking a sweat. Finding the right

person to team up with can give you a serious boost and make grappling

R&D really fun and rewarding.

Do live drills

Take whatever you working on and make up live drills AKA isolation

sparring for it. This is an fantastic training method that a lot of

people overlook. Your drills can be as simple as starting from a

specific position over and over again to running a series of

situational exercises that increase in complexity as they go. (Message

me on Facebook if you want some example drills.)

Take sparring seriously

Nothing bugs me more than two guys rolling for 1 minute before someone

taps then spending 2 minutes talking about it. Save the discussion for

later. Quick bits of advice or showing someone how to stop a move

they’ve got caught in a couple times is OK. But you’re there to spar.

Now is a good chance to push your endurance and forget time limits and

go until you are absolutely dead.

Film your sparring

If you’ve got a camera and a tripod (or a willing third person), try

getting your sparring sessions on video and watching them afterward.

You’ll often be surprised by the things you do (and don’t do) that you

never realized.

Renzo dropped 14kg to fight with Hughes

2010-02-07T17:20:00.000-05:00

From www.graciemag.com:

Renzo dropped 14kg to fight with Hughes

Renzo Gracie was in Rio de Janeiro this week. But not to train Jiu-Jitsu, work on his boxing with his friend and coach Claudinho Coelho or do physical prep work in Rio’s nature. Renzo was invited to a wedding.

He was not just any guest. Indeed, he was the best man of his uncle George, brother of Renzo’s mother.Saturday night in family for the UFC fighter.

Among his relatives most clued in to the MMA world, the chatter was about how seriously the Jiu-Jitsu professor living in New Jersey was taking his fight against Matt Hughes.

“He lost 14kg for the fight; he’s lean” they said, impressed. In the group were black belts like Daniel Gracie, Carlos Russo, Flavio Canto, Leo Leite and Kyra Gracie. Naturally happy, Renzo drank only water.

And, of course, father to the fighter Grandmaster Carlos Robson Gracie drew everyone’s attention with his storytelling.

The attention of the guests was also drawn to the dialogue between the great master, famous for his catch phrases while presenting the TV show “Heróis do Ringue” in the late 1990s, and Olympic medalist Canto

www.spencercountymartialarts.com

Helio Gracie Lives...

2010-01-31T16:04:00.004-05:00

The following is a repost from Graciemag.com about the one-year anniversary of the death of Grandmaster Helio Gracie:

It was on January 29, 2009, exactly a year ago, that Grandmaster Helio Gracie left us. But while there are still Jiu-Jitsu academies, the weak, women and children getting stronger through the art, his legacy shall only become more and more pervasive.

It needn’t be a special occasion for you to remember the teacher, and no matter what the tribute, it will never be enough to fully honor him. Even so, we set aside this video in which Helio does what he likes doing best.

This match, where he from the bottom choked unconscious an opponent 15 kg his heavier and even advised the distracted referee what he had done, was a milestone in the grandmaster’s career. ”It was the biggest thrill of my life,” he was quoted as saying in the newspapers of the time. And he confirmed it to GRACIEMAG 50 years thereafter: “It is true, because I found out my Jiu-Jitsu was superior to his.”

Check out the video and then read the technical breakdown of the hold, below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HMAu0A-vQm8&feature=player_embedded#

Helio narrated the outcome of the fight: “He didn’t realize my other hand had gone in directly into the flap of the gi. We were trying for the choke, both of us with the hold in place, but it happened that Kato couldn’t get past the barrier of my legs, making my hold more effective and bringing us to the decisive phase of the fight.

“I noticed he gave up the hold to defend his neck, consummating my positional supremacy. I tightened the hold and Kato began to falter, his grip on my wrists weakening. So I held the choke in place and brought the referee’s attention to what was going on: ‘He’s going to pass out.’ The ref didn’t hear me or didn’t understand, but, in the end, I let him drop to the side, Kato landing with a thud,” recounted the professor, on “O Globo” TV.

He will be forever missed.

www.spencercountymartialarts.com

The Triumph of Human Intelligence Over Brute Strength...

2010-01-28T16:28:00.000-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYacMTSYC9I&feature=player_embedded

Xande Ribeiro Sweep From Class

2010-01-27T23:08:00.000-05:00

Excellent technique and timing on this sweep from six-time world champion Xande Ribeiro.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CqJsG8UeKKY

Rafael Lovato Jr. Blog

2010-01-26T23:36:00.000-05:00

Check out this blog when you get a chance. Hosted by black belt Rafael Lovato Jr, the blog features some great training tips and techniques. He's an avid competitor, and there's plenty of tournament advice featured in his posts. Definitely worth a visit and a look.

http://www.lovatojr.com/

See you all on the mat -- tomorrow night!

Brian
www.spencercountymartialarts.com

Women in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu

2010-01-19T17:54:00.001-05:00

Check out this blue belt demonstration from Roy Dean Academy. The student, Caryn Ackerman, is Mr. Dean's first female to be promoted to the rank of blue belt, and deservedly so. Her crisp technique and attention to detail show a high level of proficiency with the blue belt curriculum.

In my opinion, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is the perfect system of self-defense for women. It's all leverage and technique, and Grandmaster Helio Gracie (with his 130 pound or so frame) proved time and time again that his technique could prevail over much larger and stronger attackers. Sure, size and strength will always be factors in an altercation, but it's short-sighted to believe that those elements cannot be overcome with proper training.

Unfortunately, however, women aren't encouraged (and oftentimes are discouraged) to participate in this gentle art because of the popular "MMA-tap-or-snap," brute mentality that is being perpetuated by the mainstream media.

I can speak for our Academy in saying that all are welcome at Spencer County Martial Arts, and love to see increasing diversity on the mats. If your wife or girlfriend has any doubt about the style and if it's a right fit for her, show them this video and invite them to watch a class.

Again, big props to Ms. Ackerman on her achievement.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIhc97XjhPI&feature=player_embedded#

Gracie Insider: Technique of the Month - Armbar Finishes

2010-01-14T17:27:00.001-05:00

Courtesy of Ryron and Rener Gracie. Try working these into your game -- very high percentage moves.

Welcome, 2010

2010-01-01T23:04:00.001-05:00

Team:

We wanted to take an opportunity to say thank you again for your commitment to yourselves and to the Academy in 2009. The school continued to grow with newcomers who contribute to our unique atmosphere in numerous, positive ways.

Veteran students mentored every white belt and greeted everyone who stepped through our doors with a handshake and open arms. Integrity, sportsmanship and strong character are essential tenets of our students' success. We ask that the SCMA family keep to this tradition in 2010 and dedicate themselves to continuing to practice pure Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, as developed and refined by Grandmaster Helio Gracie.

We look forward to starting the new year off on a strong note tomorrow at Saturday's class. Please join us, and tell a friend to come and watch.

See you all on the mat -- and thank you once again.

Sincerely,

The SCMA Instructor Team

Jeff Glover's Travels -- Gracie Barra's Headquarters

2009-12-23T12:06:00.003-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LY5wZCTM3IE&feature=player_embedded

Roy Dean Purple Belt Examination

2009-12-16T17:57:00.003-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JeNMd7EhB6A&feature=player_embedded

Open Mat -- Sunday, Dec. 13 at Noon

2009-12-12T17:43:00.002-05:00

We'll be holding an open mat tomorrow for registered members of SCMA beginning at noon for those who are interested. Come ready to train hard, particularly those who plan to compete on Feb. 12. We plan to train for about two hours.

See you all on the mat!

The Gracie Diet

2009-12-01T19:03:00.000-05:00

While there may not be too many takers on this right before the holidays, here's a good resource on The Gracie Diet. Is anyone at the Academy currently following this?

If so, how is it going? If you tried and fell off, what were the reasons? Maybe this is a good challenge for the school. Anyone out there want to try it out with me for one month? Who knows, maybe it'll become a lifestyle...(we could only hope).

http://www.graciemag.com/en/gracie-diet/

Classic Jiu-Jitsu: Jean Jacques Machado vs. Wallid Ismail

2009-11-24T21:01:00.000-05:00

Circa 1987. Tough back-and-forth match with some incredible technique.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZTxS8mi7zM

Kron Gracie Seminar -- Spencer County Martial Arts School Photo

2009-11-21T19:30:00.000-05:00

Romulo Barral vs. Josh Barnett

2009-11-17T21:48:00.000-05:00

This one starts slow but picks up nicely. Great match.

Josh Barnett VS Romulo Barral
by willyboybjj

http://www.graciemag.com/news/144/ARTICLE/16369/2009-11-16.html

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Rank Descriptions

2009-11-08T16:59:00.000-05:00

Instructor Scott Smith passed this along and wanted to share it with the team. This comes from Professor Roy Harris, a third-degree black belt in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. It's a little long, but well worth the read as it describes what a student should focus on at each rank. Enjoy.

White Belt

This is the belt of paying your dues. This is the belt where you will spend most of your time on his back. You usually end up doing most of the tapping as well.

Your ability to grapple successfully will depend largely on three things:

Your previous martial arts experience, (a grappling background helps a lot)
Your current fitness level, (a higher level of fitness help tremendously)
Your ability to learn visually (visual learners adapt and absorb information more quickly)

Students who come from a wrestling background seem to adapt very well to the slight change in grappling methods. Students who come from an athletic background also seem to adapt quite well.

Those who come from a striking background sometimes have a difficult time adapting. Many have become so accustomed to visually grabbing onto the vertical and horizontal lines of the walls, doorways and ropes to stabilize their equilibrium that they feel very uncomfortable with the diagonal world of grappling. They quickly learn that the ground has not been their friend, and, that they must take some time to acquaint themselves with this new perspective.

The most frustrating part about being a white belt (especially if you have no experience on the ground) is the fact that most of the advanced students will make you tap, or at least positionally dominate you. (I remember feeling frustrated as a white belt.) This frustration usually leads to white belts asking questions like, "How do I get on top of these guys? How do I escape the side or full mount? How do I tap out the blue and purple belts?" Unfortunately, there's nothing you can do right now to immediately change the tables in your favor. Get used to the blue and purple belts tapping you out. Get used to having them positionally dominating you. Consider tapping as a "form of learning", a way of "paying your dues." I remember when I was a white belt. I remember feeling like a rag doll in the hands of the blue and purple belts. I wish there would have been something I could have done to prevent from feeling like that, but there wasn't. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is just one of those "time in service" things. You simply have to put your time in. There are no short cuts!

The only encouragement that I can give to you is this, "Keep training! Your day is coming. The day will come when you will no longer be a white belt. The day is coming when you will be able to escape from any position with finesse and ease. Then, it will be your turn to watch the frustration of the new white belts that enter your school. Then, it will be your turn to encourage them as I have encouraged you!"

White belts are expected to rely on speed, power, strength and explosiveness. For that is all they know. However, once a person dons the "blue belt", the world of Jiu Jitsu suddenly changes.

Blue Belt

This is the belt of survival. It is the belt where the focus of your training must be on escaping from most of the inferior positions (the mount, the guard, the side mount, the wrestler's cradle and headlocks). Having the ability to escape from most inferior positions is paramount to having the ability to get on top of a person, positionally dominate them and making them tap. I know that there are a number of submissions from inferior positions (not necessarily the guard), but these submissions require a high level of speed, power and explosiveness. The reason why these submissions require speed, power and explosiveness is because your body, when placed in an inferior position, can not effectively apply leverage. To compensate for the inability to apply leverage, you substitute it with speed, power and explosiveness to effect the lock. (Anyone who tells you any different is either purposely misleading you or very unknowledgeable with grappling! I know that some may argue this point, but I stand by this point.) Not only do you have an inability to apply leverage from an inferior position, you also do not have control of your opponent's body! So now do you see why escapes are so important to building a firm foundation in grappling?

When you can easily escape the tightest pin (from just about anyone), you will find yourself on top more often. When you find yourself on top, you have more chances for submission. However, you should not jump right into submission just yet because you have not developed the skill to hold someone down with finesses and ease. I have seen too many blue belts begin their journey into submission too soon and often become frustrated because they just can't finish their opponent. They get so close, but they often fail at finishing their opponent. This usually leads the blue belt to seeking out more and more submission techniques. He thinks that the "new" and "sneaky" techniques will make him more skilled at submissions. However, what he doesn't realize is that his inability to finish his opponent is directly related to his inability to positionally dominate him. The blue belt feels good when he has escaped a hold down and has landed on top. However, he also feels like he has ONE SHOT at sinking in the submission. He knows if he fails, he will end up on his back and have to fight for the top position again. So, he usually stalls, waiting for his opponent to make a mistake so he can hopefully capitalize on it.

Once the blue belt has a firm grip on positional escapes, he should then move on to positional dominance: which is "the ability to control an opponent." When the blue belt can readily escape from most of the bottom positions, he should focus his training on learning how to control his opponent with greater ease and finesse. Although anyone can control their opponent if they can use all of their strength for short periods of time. It will take some time before a person can effortlessly hold down their opponent.

Once the blue belt has a good grip on these two aspects, he should then begin to develop a few good submissions. Still, he should not be consumed with them because there are still a few more areas to train before a lengthy period of time should be spent on submissions. (Yes, yes, yes, I know that submissions are the more enjoyable

Purple Belt

This is the belt of momentum and combinations. This is the belt level where the amount of energy you expend to accomplish a specific task should be considerably lower than it was when you were a white belt. Your game should have a certain amount of grace and finesse to it. Your game should not have rely on speed, power and explosiveness to get you into positions or out of positions. Your repertoire of techniques should be very high. However, you should begin to focus your training on your depth of knowledge. The white and blue belts are the belts where you accumulate techniques. The purple belt is the first belt where you must begin to refine your techniques. It is also the belt where you learn to put the basic techniques together into various two technique and three technique combinations, with the use of momentum.

Because you become more reliant upon combinations and momentum, the amount of speed and power required to effect your technique decreases. This is not something a white or blue belt can do just yet because of their limited amount of knowledge and experience.

As a purple belt, you must begin to focus your training on the use momentum. You must train your entire body to FEEL momentum. Up until this point in time, most everything was visual. You must develop a high level of sensitivity so that you can flow with your opponent instead of forcing techniques with speed and power, especially when you grappled people who are much bigger and stronger than you are. Pushing an opponent's dead weight around is exhausting if you do not have a firm foundation in escapes and positioning. You will need to learn to use the momentum that your opponent gives to you, as well as create momentum when his body is not in motion. Momentum will help you to lower the amount of strength you use to perform your techniques.

Your training should also begin to use the basic techniques together into two, three and sometimes five technique combinations. Notice I said "basic" techniques. The purple belt mentality is very different from the white and blue belt mentality. White and blue belts think the answer to their problems is learning more techniques. The purple belt thinks to himself: "I need to refine the techniques I already know and then learn how to reflexively put the appropriate techniques together into flowing combinations." For example, when I first learned the triangle, I thought it was just a matter of throwing my legs over their head and shoulder and squeezing my legs together. Then as I matured in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, I noticed that there were a specific set of components that made up the technique (20 to be exact!). Then, I noticed that these components could be broken down even further into sub-categories. Now (as a black belt), the triangle is no longer a simple technique with three or four movements. It is now a myriad of over twenty (20) different (and subtle) moving parts that must be put together in a specific order so they can all work together towards one common goal: apply pressure to the neck. Once I had mastered the triangle, I needed to put it together with other basic techniques like the arm lock, the hip bump, the sweep, the kimura, a knee lock, etc. Knowing how to combine the triangle with other basic techniques was very important to my development in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu! Once I could combine techniques together and use them in conjunction with momentum, I now felt ready to take on the world. I've noticed the same in many students, both in seminars, at my school and other schools.

The purple belt's mind set should be on the refinement of his current knowledge and the use of momentum and combinations. The purple belt is able to do this because he already has a wide base of knowledge in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I know that white and blue belts want to learn how to do this, but they simply aren't ready for it just yet.

This mindset, along with some rapidly developing skills by the purple belts usually sets the stage for some highly charged matches, especially amongst new purple belts. Why? Because the some of the "veteran" blue belts want to make a purple belt tap. Plus, a number of students who get their purple belts go through a period which I call "testing their wares." They want to see just how they compare to the older, more experienced purple belts, especially those who are about to be promoted to brown belt.

Brown Belt

This is the belt of mastery of ALL the basics and something I call "at-will grappling." This is also the belt where submissions play a big part in the training. When I decide that someone is about ready for their brown belt, I tell them in advance that they are about 9 months to a year away from their brown belt. I give them a schedule of tasks that I want them to work on.

First, they must master each and every escape. I want them to be able to escape every position with the use of their hands AND without the use of their hands (they must know how to push and pull, lift and lower with every portion of their anatomy.). I want them to be able to hold other students down with their hands and without their hands. I want to see them use all of the basic techniques in three and five technique combinations. I also want them to begin to refine their submissions. This is where I begin to use the "at-will grappling" training method. I will tell the student, "for the next thirty days, all I want you to do is apply straight arm locks when you grapple with the other students. No chokes or leg locks. Just arm locks." Then, a month later, I will tell them, "for the next month, all I want you to do are leg locks. Then a month later, I will tell them to choke the other students. So, for each month, they have been given a specific task to master. Because they tell the other students, "All I am going to do is arm lock you today," the student knows what the purple belt is going for. This forces the student to be creative in setting up the arm lock because his opponent knows that he will not try a different submission. Setting up an opponent is a difficult task, however, it is one that needs to be learned at this belt level. (I know the lower belt levels want to learn this stuff, but again, they are simply not ready for it.)

Once the student has gotten pretty good at arm locks, leg locks or choke, I will have him narrow the scope of his training. Now, he must focus on one specific limb. I will tell him, "for the next month, all I want you to do is arm lock your opponent's left arm." This really forces the student to develop a multiplicity of ways to enter into the straight arm lock on his opponent's left arm. The student has the confidence to go for all of these submissions because he has a foundation in positional escapes and positional dominance. If he did not have this foundation, he would be timid to go for the submission because he would not want to end up on the bottom again. However, because he can easily escape from any position, and because he can readily hold down and control his opponent, he can repeatedly try for these submissions time and time again! This is why I do not place a lot of emphasis on submissions until the purple or brown belt levels. Position and control are the most important tools to develop at first.

Once a student has a firm grip on the mastery of his basics, I will promote him to brown belt. Once he has been promoted to brown belt, he must continue to refine his game. He must seek out his weak areas and focus on them. He must also find his strengths and focus on them for an extended period of time because these will define his character as a black belt. Most black belts have a specialty. Some are good at throws. Others are good at collar chokes. I happen to be good at leg locks. I want my brown belts to find their sweet spot and train it like crazy!

Black Belt

This is the belt where a person focuses his training on counters and placing his or her signature on the art. First, let's talk about the signature. Some black belts develop an affinity for leg locks (like myself). Others tend to focus on throws or take downs. Some are exceptional at arm locks. While others are magicians at collar chokes. This is also the belt where you really begin to refine and redefine the art. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu takes on a more personal look to it. The new black belt begins to realize that there's more than one way to skin a cat. He also begin to notice how certain things work for some people while others don't. (Now, let me qualify that last statement: all of these things apply to the black belt who is still refining, growing, learning and adapting. They do not apply to the black belt who is stuck in his old ways, paralyzed by his resistance to change!)

At the black belt level, the learning process starts over again. If a new black belt is honest with him or herself, they realize they know very little about their chosen art. They will also know that there is a difference between a new black belt and a black belt who has consistently been training "as a black belt" for the past ten years. For example, I am a relatively new black belt, someone you might call "a white belt amongst other black belts." I've had my black belt for two years now. Then there's Royler Gracie. He's had his black belt for several years. As a matter of fact, he had his black belt before I even thought about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Plus, he has so many more hundreds of hours competing, teaching and training that there's no way to compare my black belt with his black belt. So, as a new black belt, I am introduced to a new journey, one that is as long and hard as the one I just traveled. However, because I have already traveled a similar road, I am ready to take on this new one!

At the black belt level, a person's technical expertise is very high. However, his ability to skillfully perform all of his technical knowledge will not be as good as some might think. The black belt will obviously have some favorite moves that he does most of the time. However, over time (if he continues to train with the same intensity as he did in the earlier belts), his skill level will continue to increase. The only thing that will be different is that his game will become much smaller. He will not concern himself with "NEW" techniques, but the refining and redefining of the old ones. He will work on the small subtle movements that will make the art much easier and more enjoyable to practice. He will begin to make smaller movements to accomplish the same objectives as the other belt. For example, to a black belt, the difference between escaping and being held down is often the difference between a hip movement of less than one inch. YES, I SAID "ONE INCH!" The black belt's feel and sensitivity of the game is so much higher than the white, blue or even purple belt's game. The black belt begins to move like a shadow. He flows effortlessly around his opponent's movement and follows the path they set. He finds his opponent's weakness and then exploits it. The game is very small and tactile!

Finally, the black belt's knowledge and ability to execute counters will be much higher. For example, when a student performs a basic technique, the black belt is already three or four moves ahead of him. The black belt knows that for every move, there are several counters. For every counter, there are several more counters. Let me show this to you another way:

We will call the bridge and roll escape from the mount (Upa), technique "A". Technique "A" has ten (10) counters to it:

A.1 straight arm lock
A.2 catch your balance with your head
A.3 catch your balance with your right foot
A.4 catch your balance with you left foot
A.5 catch your balance with your far arm
A.6 spin to knee on stomach
A.7 spin to side mount
A.8 turn onto your side
A.9 roll and sweep to mount
A.10 triangle

"A.1" is the first counter to technique "A", the bridge and roll escape from the mount position. "A.1" also has ten (10) counters to it:

A.1.1 heel

hook
A.1.2 sit up and crush escape
A.1.3 sit up and crush escape to knee lock
A.1.4 sit up and remove leg off face
A.1.5 sit up and spin to opposite side
A.1.6 roll over shoulder escape
A.1.7 basic elbow/knee escape
A.1.8 basic elbow/knee escape, go to the back
A.1.9 basic elbow/knee escape
A.1.10 shin

Now, do you see how I could keep going on and on with counters? I could list the ten counters for A.2 and A.3 and so on, and then I could begin to list the counters for A.1.1 and A.1.2 and so on and so on.

Do you now see and understand the progression from white to black belt? The process of becoming skilled at Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is frustrating, very time consuming and nerve racking, however, it is always rewarding!

I wish you continued success in your journey. Keep training hard and smart!

Kron Gracie Seminar at Fall Training Camp in Louisville, Ky. (Nov. 20-22)

2009-11-04T16:22:00.002-05:00

Team:

Sign-up today for Master Pedro Sauer's Fall Training Camp, to be held in Louisville on Nov. 20-22. Last year, Master Relson Gracie taught an incredible session. This year, Rickson Gracie's son, Kron, will be conducting a special session for participants. You will not want to miss this. Never heard of Kron? Check out some of the videos below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ta6gX0JQfk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KS9jBY3Zrnc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVDmDhBHxBo

Schedule

Friday: (Pedro Sauer) 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Saturday: (Strack, Kelly, Manganello) 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and (Kron Gracie) 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday: (Pedro) Sauer) 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Cost (members)*

$225 for all sessions (four total)

Individual Days:

Friday (3 hours): $85
Saturday (6 hours): $160
Sunday (3 hours): $85

Cost (non-members)

$250 for all sessions (four total)

Individual Days:

Friday (3 hours): $95
Saturday (6 hours): $180
Sunday (3 hours): $95

Payments can be made through the online store. For more information call Mike Horihan at 865-696-8000.

*members must have ACTIVE individual membership in the Pedro Sauer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Association. Membership number must be shown to receive the discounted rate. In addition, you're also registered to win an Association Gi through pre-registration. Winner will be announced at the camp.

Congrats To Our New Blue Belts

2009-10-25T22:21:00.000-04:00

Team:

We'd like to say congratulations to Matt, Rob and Derick for an outstanding performance on their blue belt test today. They each displayed tremendous technique and understanding of the fundamentals of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu during their 2.5-hour effort. They represent our Academy and the art well.

Kron Gracie At Fall Training Camp 2009

2009-10-22T09:56:00.001-04:00

Team:

Just received word today that Red/Black Belt Fabio Santos will unfortunately be unable to attend the Fall camp due to a scheduling conflict.

In his place, however, will be Kron Gracie, who will serve as one of the guest instructors at Master Pedro Sauer's Fall Training Camp at Louisville Martial Arts Academy on Nov. 20-22. You will not want to miss this year's camp. Details are as follows:

Schedule
Friday: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Cost (members)*
$185 for all sessions (four total)
$90 single sessions (each session is three hours)
$140 all-day Saturday (six hours total)

Cost (non-members)
$195 for all sessions
$95 single sessions
$150 all-day Saturday

Payments can be made through the online store. For more information call Mike Horihan at 865-696-8000.

*members must have ACTIVE individual membership in the Pedro Sauer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Association. Membership number must be shown to receive the discounted rate. In addition, you're also registered to win an Association Gi through pre-registration. Winner will be announced at the camp.

Feeling Jiu-Jitsu

2009-10-21T18:15:00.000-04:00

Team:

Here's an excerpt from an article featuring Saulo Ribeiro, six-time world jiu-jitsu champion. Take a minute to think about how this relates to your own training. It's sound advice...

"If you think, you are late. If you are late, you use strength. If you use strength, you tire. And if you tire, you die."

This is one of my favorite quotes, and it means that all jiu-jitsu must be based on how you feel your opponent. The timing to make a decision is not based on what you think you should be doing. It is about your body recognizing the move and automatically doing it. It's about muscle memory. For example, when someone is passing your guard, you feel he is passing so you cannot wait to decide what to do. There is no time for thought -- only reaction.

This is one thing I developed a long time ago from my teachers -- my jiu-jitsu would be based on reaction. When you react, you don't give your mind the time to get filled with emotions. You are devoid of anger, fear, and frustration; you are simply moving. If your opponent is pushing your elbow and you're tired and almost hurt, it doesn't matter because you are reacting already; you haven't given yourself time to get upset. That's why I follow this motto: no mind. If you do not think, you must feel your opponent and react accordingly.

Master Pedro Sauer Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Demonstration

2009-10-19T23:03:00.000-04:00

Team:

Below is an excellent demo of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu self-defense -- both standing and ground techniques -- by Master Pedro Sauer. Thanks to black belt association affiliate Matt Strack for the great find!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29dK0gwRRek

Turning Gi Choke From Mount Position

2009-10-19T17:18:00.002-04:00

Courtesy of Master Pedro Sauer Black Belt Keith Owen...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jg8eO_voBdQ

To Move Like A Tiger

2009-10-19T17:10:00.002-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FWjxN-vcts&feature=player_embedded

Blending Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and Judo

2009-10-11T20:45:00.000-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wwGMeZFqal8&feature=player_embedded

Master Pedro Sauer Awards Yellow Belt to Bradley Wilson

2009-10-02T15:07:00.000-04:00

Team:

It's an honor and a pleasure to be able to deliver this news: Master Sauer along with instructor Scott Smith today awarded Bradley Wilson his yellow belt in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. As you all know, Bradley has been in the fight of his life for more than 30 days. The young man has battled leukemia and is making great strides towards a full recovery.

Thank you all for continuing to pray and keeping Bradley and the Wilson family in your thoughts. In addition, the funds donated by all of you went to purchasing Bradley an Association gi and plenty of jiu-jitsu gear. We cannot wait for him to get back on the mats.

Last but not least, thanks to Master Sauer for taking time out of his schedule to pay this young man a visit. As you can see by the photos below, he was surprised and beyond happy.

See you all on the mat!

Happy Birthday, Grandmaster Helio Gracie

2009-10-01T10:35:00.000-04:00

Team:

Take a moment today to reflect on the life and legacy of the father of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, Grandmaster Helio Gracie. With a focus on pure self-defense, he once said that jiu-jitsu is the triumph of human intelligence over brute strength.

Without him, we wouldn't be where we are today.

Thank you, Grandmaster.

Why fear death? I don’t need anything, I don’t have anything, I don’t want anything. I think it’s silly for somebody to be scared of dying. One should be afraid of being born. I have already told my children when I die I want a party, with no alcohol, no hell raising [general laughter]. But I want a party with music, food… I don’t know if you guys believe in reincarnation, but we all go and come back until the day we no longer have to return. My brother [Carlos Gracie, already deceased] used to say the fellow only stops returning to Earth when he mingles with the Whole. Even when you’re thinking just a little bit wrongly, you come back to continue evolving. Hell, my friends, is right here on Earth.

Saulo Ribiero: 2009 U.S. Nationals

2009-09-28T07:24:00.000-04:00

Check out the ippon seoinage to kouchi-gari combo at the 43 second mark:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wVGMxLReRpw&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9WsYxKg_2rI

Oct. 3 Tournament Details

2009-09-24T00:08:00.000-04:00

Team:

Click here for more information on the Pedro Sauer Bluegrass Open Jiu-Jitsu tournament. In addition, I'll print off several of the registration forms and bring them to tomorrow night's class.

See you on the mat!

NAGA Tournament Update

2009-09-20T10:34:00.003-04:00

Team:

Wanted to update everyone to let you guys know that SCMA's Scott Sale won the blue belt no-gi division (three straight wins) and took third in the gi division (two wins, one loss). All-in-all, it was a great day for Mr. Sale.

Here's a photo of Scott with his NAGA sword, which in celebration was used to cut up 20 watermelons into tiny pieces.

Congrats once again, Scott!

NAGA Tournament Update

2009-09-19T13:38:00.000-04:00

Team:

Just heard that our very own Scott Sale took first place in the No-Gi division at NAGA today. He won three straight matches and is now preparing to fight in the open and gi divisions.

Keep up the good work, Scott.

I'll provide more updates as the day advances.

Brian

Saulo Ribiero: Lessons From A Champion

2009-09-18T06:51:00.000-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZeBktuw1ljE&feature=player_embedded#t=223

Judo Throw Combinations

2009-09-11T00:24:00.000-04:00

Team:

Per our class tonight on throw combinations, below is a good video of olympian gold medalist and U.S. team coach Mike Swain explaining several techniques, three of which we covered today.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UsHKY1LCrCk

Chess and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

2009-09-11T00:08:00.000-04:00

Team:

We're always talking about how jiu-jitsu is like chess, so here's an article that articulates the connection on many levels. Enjoy.

http://www.chess.com/forum/view/general/chess-and-brazilian-jiu-jitsu?lc=1

See you all on the mat -- this Saturday!

ADCC 2009 Blog

2009-09-09T19:00:00.000-04:00

Team:

Gracie Magazine has started a new blog dedicated to providing regular updates on the Abu Dhabi Combat Club (commonly referred to as ADCC) submission grappling championship. The next ADCC tournament will be held in Barcelona in about two weeks. There are some major players competing, including Kron Gracie, Marcelo Garcia and Master Pedro Sauer Black Belt Jeff Curran, to name a few.

Bookmark http://graciemagbarcelona2009.wordpress.com/ and begin following the news as the event draws closer. We'll continue to keep you guys informed of the latest as well.

See you all on the mats!

Rickson Gracie Stand-Up Sparring

2009-09-06T13:47:00.000-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NE2OkAzea48

Ricardo Almeida Training Program

2009-09-05T20:52:00.001-04:00

New Wednesday Class Begins This Week

2009-08-31T15:06:00.000-04:00

Team:

Don't forget that this Wednesday, Sept. 2 at 7:45 p.m. begins our first weekly class dedicated exclusively to the blue belt curriculum. Although designed for beginners, all are welcome to attend and contribute to the overall success of helping our newer students build a solid foundation in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu.

The addition of the Wednesday class expands our schedule of instructional offerings. We also offer weeknight classes on Monday and Thursday at 7:45 p.m., and two classes on Saturday; a children's class at 11:15 a.m. and an adult's class at 12:15 p.m. Of course, open mat is on Sunday depending on keyholder availability.

There's much more to come, too. Our Academy is rapidly growing and we appreciate your continued support.

See you all on the mat!

Master Rickson Gracie Spars With Professor Pedro Sauer

2009-08-25T00:08:00.003-04:00

Team:

Thanks to our good friend and fellow Professor Pedro Sauer affiliate Eric Meyers for bringing this footage to our attention. I think it pretty much speaks for itself.

Incredible.

Enjoy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TM4YsEFXOlI&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Efacebook%2Ecom%2Fhome%2Ephp&feature=player_embedded#t=154

Our 300th Post

2009-08-24T23:59:00.002-04:00

Team:

As our Academy has grown, so has this blog. We've averaged about 20 posts a month going back more than one year ago. We try to keep things informative, educational, fun, and respectful...a direct reflection of our community at Spencer County Martial Arts.

Below is a slideshow of tonight's class -- our largest on record. Thank you for making us who we are.

A Stranger in a Strange Town...

2009-08-21T21:51:00.000-04:00

California Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Training

2009-08-19T19:48:00.001-04:00

Team:

Our very own Craig Conard trained recently at The Gracie Academy in Torrance, California with Rorion Gracie's sons. Pictured below is Craig with Rener Gracie, after a combatives class Monday night.

In addition, Brian Phillips is in San Francisco this week for a work conference and trained at a Carley Gracie Academy downtown.

More pics of both sessions are to come.

When you travel abroad, always bring your jiu-jitsu gear! You never know when a good opportunity to learn and expand your knowledge might present itself. Always be open to new experiences and different flavors, especially if they're in line with the Gracie lineage.

See you all on the mat -- tomorrow night!

New Wednesday Night Class Begins In September

2009-08-18T07:21:00.000-04:00

Team:

As our Academy continues to expand, it's important for us to offer our students as many training opportunities as possible. Over the last couple of months our student body has increased tremendously, and it's for this reason that beginning Wednesday, Sept. 2, we'll offer an additional class at 7:45 p.m.

This new class will focus entirely on the blue belt Gracie Jiu-Jitsu curriculum. It's the fundamentals...the foundation from which you'll continue to grow as a martial artist. It doesn't matter if you're a beginner, someone who is close to testing for blue belt, or a seasoned blue or purple belt -- all are welcome to attend.

We plan to have an enhanced emphasis on the details surrounding every technique on the blue belt list. Think of this class as a clinic. Learning to sustain and improve good positions might be a focus one class.

Becoming an escape artist from bad positions might be another. Then there's always the submission aspect to cover, but only after you've established a solid position. The basics of takedowns and self-defense are also essential.

We look forward to seeing you all on the mat for this new class. The Academy is headed in the right direction and it's all because of the commitment you have to yourself and to each other.

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Self-Defense

2009-08-13T22:55:00.001-04:00

Team:

Excellent work on the mats tonight! We spent the bulk of the class covering Gracie Jiu-Jitsu self-defense techniques. Again, the self-defense techniques are what separate traditional Gracie Jiu-Jitsu from the more sportive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

In the following video, Relson Gracie black belts Phil and Ricardo Migliarese demonstrate the Helio Gracie self-defense system. It's one of the most complete series of techniques I've been able to find and the moves are crisp. Remember, these techniques are required for promotion in the art: they're just as important as knowing how to escape cross-side or mount, or passing the guard.

Enjoy, and once again thank you for your dedication to the school and to yourselves.

See you all on the mat -- this Saturday!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aeg926nPCGQ

Explosive Judo Throws

2009-08-10T13:43:00.000-04:00

Pretty incredible stuff. You can see how many of the throws set-up nice submissions as well. Excellent technique throughout.

Boxing Seminar Photos

2009-08-07T19:32:00.008-04:00

Team:

We'd like to once again thank boxing instructor Ray Doemer for conducting an excellent seminar last Sunday. His professionalism and enthusiasm for the sport were evident, and the quality of his instruction was superb. There was no doubt why Mike Tyson, while in his prime, selected Mr. Doemer as one of his trainers.

It's our goal to continue to bring in a wide variety of world-class instruction to our Academy. While our focus is traditional Gracie Jiu-Jitsu as taught and developed by Grandmaster Helio Gracie, it's always important to expand your horizons to include an eclectic mix of tools in your self-defense arsenal. Thanks again, Mr. Doemer. We look forward to working with you in the future.

See you all on the mat!

SCMA's Chris Meeks to Fight Aug. 15

2009-08-07T14:59:00.000-04:00

Team:

Our very own MMA fighter Chris Meeks steps back into the cage on Aug. 15. We'd like as many of the SCMA family to attend as possible, so below is more information about the fights. Let's all come out and support one of our own as he submits another opponent!

Location
Paroquet Springs Conference Centre
395 Paraquet Springs Dr.
Sheperdsville, Ky. 40165

View Larger Map

Cost:
General admission is $25
VIP seating is $40
http://www.hardrockfight.com/index.html

Time:
Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Fights start at 8 p.m.

Professor Luis "Limao" Heredia In Action At Rio Open

2009-08-01T06:26:00.001-04:00

Additional Tournament Footage

2009-07-28T16:39:00.001-04:00

Purple Belt Requirements: Roy Dean DVD

2009-07-27T19:06:00.000-04:00

Team:

Instructor Roy Dean never disappoints in his delivery of crisp technique and solid instruction. Below is a video clip of his latest DVD, "Purple Belt Requirements". It provides a glimpse into the "attack by combination" mindset and, judging from the trailer, Mr. Dean is on-point and has produced another great product.

Remember, though, that it's not a memorization of technique that makes a jiu-jitsu fighter...that's only one part of the equation. It's also a matter of timing and being able to catch and set-up an opponent in the transition...that only comes with time on the mat.

Still, it never hurts to look ahead.

See you all on the mats --tonight!

Tournament Footage

2009-07-27T06:46:00.000-04:00

Team:

Here is some footage of some of our students competing over the weekend. Thanks to Mark Wilson for putting this together and capturing all the action. Like we've said about competition before, sometimes you're the hammer, sometimes you're the nail. We're proud of each of you for stepping out on the mat.

Aug. 2 Boxing Seminar

2009-07-24T00:22:00.000-04:00

Team:

We are proud to host instructor Ray Doomer on Aug. 2 at Spencer County Martial Arts for a two-hour beginner boxing seminar. Mr. Doomer trained Mike Tyson when the champ was in his prime. He brings to us a set of skills that will make our stand-up game very strong.

The cost is $25 and the seminar will run from 3 to 5 p.m. Pay at the door and no special equipment is necessary.

Mark your calendars and come out an support the Academy.

See you on the mat!

Jim Kelly vs. James Clingerman

2009-07-21T07:28:00.000-04:00

From the most recent Ohio Grappling Challenge, Master Pedro Sauer first-degree black belt Jim Kelly fights James Clingerman. Never underestimate the effectiveness of a cross-collar choke.

Open Mat Sunday, July 19, 2009 at 11:30 a.m.

2009-07-18T12:46:00.000-04:00

Team:

We'll be hosting an open mat for registered members of SCMA tomorrow at 11:30 a.m. We'll be going until about 1:30 or 2 p.m. I plan to train gi, but it's your call on if you'd rather work on no-gi technique. Let's train hard and start the week off on a good note.

See you then,

Brian

Tapping Out Mt. Hood

2009-07-17T10:49:00.000-04:00

Team:

In case you weren't aware, SCMA's very own Scott Sale recently climbed Mt. Hood in Oregon. The video below documents the effort, and it's quite impressive. The peak rises more than 11,000 feet and the mountain is considered the Oregon volcano most likely to errupt.

Congrats on the accomplishment, Mr. Sale! That jiu-jitsu is paying off my friend!

Renzo Gracie Footage: Some Old, Some New

2009-07-11T16:47:00.000-04:00

Team:

Thought you might be interested in watching a view interview/action clips of Renzo Gracie. Most of the following can be seen in the documentary "Legend," but there are some interviews in this video that didn't make it into the documentary. Either way, from a historical perspective you get to see and learn a lot about the early days of the art's evolution in Brazil, as well as Renzo's personal development of the style.

Enjoy, and see you all on the mat on Monday!

Recent Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Training Clips at Spencer County Martial Arts

2009-07-08T22:30:00.004-04:00

Team:

Here's a video of recent training clips at the Academy. Everyone's game is improving big time -- enjoy your journey.

See you all on the mat -- tomorrow night!

Open Mat Sunday, July 5, 2009 at 11:30 a.m.

2009-07-05T09:50:00.000-04:00

Team:

Just a reminder that we'll be hosting a gi open mat today from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Come ready to train hard!

Open Mat Tomorrow, July 4

2009-07-03T17:49:00.001-04:00

Team:

We will be holding a gi open mat session tomorrow, July 4, from 11:30 to 1 p.m. Come ready to train hard!

Although regular classes have been canceled due to the holiday, a keyholder has graciously agreed to let our jiu-jitsu junkies get their fix.

See you all on the mat - tomorrow!

No Classes on Saturday, July 4

2009-06-30T10:08:00.002-04:00

Team:

Due to Independence Day, SCMA will have no formal classes on Saturday, July 4. We'll pick back up on Monday, July 6. If any keyholders would like to come in for an open mat over the weekend, please post on the forum the day/time in which you'll be available.

We hope everyone has a fun and safe holiday.

Sincerely,

The SCMA Instructor Team

Professor Bruce Shepherd Seminar Recap

2009-06-29T15:40:00.000-04:00

Team:

Several of us from SCMA yesterday attended Professor Bruce Shepherd's seminar at Full Moon Martial Arts Academy in Jeffersonville, IN. As always, the quality of instruction was incredible and he covered some solid techniques.

We began with a throw combination involving osoto-gari, ouchi-gari, and tai-otoshi. These throws work well off of each other and can be applied in gi and no-gi situations. The rest of the seminar involved a submission series from the Kese-Gatame position and a Q&A. Again, all good stuff.

If you haven't had an opportunity to train with Professor Shepherd, definitely attend the next seminar he conducts. Come armed with your questions, too, as he's like an encyclopedia for all things jiu-jitsu.

We'll see you all on the mat -- tonight!

Open Guard Movement Drill

2009-06-26T15:13:00.000-04:00

Team:

Here's a nice open guard drill that combines movements from two sweeps. Very nice transition from one move to the next. This comes courtest of Kurt Osiander, a black belt under Ralph Gracie. Enjoy, and we'll see you all on the mats -- tomorrow!

Professor Shepherd Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Seminar This Sunday

2009-06-23T14:46:00.000-04:00

Team:

Full Moon Martial Arts will host a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu seminar conducted by Professor Bruce Shepherd, a 3rd-degree black belt under Marcello Ferriera. The seminar will be held this Sunday, June 28th from noon to 2:30 p.m. Cost for the seminar is $25.00 if prepaid, and $35.00 at the door the day of the seminar.

Below is a map from which you can get directions. Let us know if any of you would like to carpool.

Let’s all come out and support Professor Shepherd for what plans to be another excellent seminar!

See you all on the mat – this Thursday!

View Larger Map

Professor Pedro Sauer -- Rolling in Iceland

2009-06-23T09:44:00.000-04:00

Team:

Gracie Iceland Pedro Sauer representative, Johann Eyvindson, posted this video of himself and Professor having a friendly training session at the last seminar. Very good flow and demonstration of technique! Eyvindson was promoted to purple belt by Professor that weekend. In addition, Johan will be bringing eight of his students to the Fall Training Camp in Louisville, Ky., in November. More details on the training camp will follow, but start saving now so you don't miss out!

Congrats again Johann!

Sweet Tournament Technique

2009-06-23T09:14:00.002-04:00

Courtesy of Victor Estima...guard sweep attempt to armbar. Smooth.

Gracie Academy Technique of The Month

2009-06-23T09:00:00.000-04:00

Team:

Here's a nice cross-side to mount triangle-armbar combination attack, from the Gracie Academy's Technique of the Month series.

See you all on the mat -- Thursday!

Eduardo Telles At Pedro Sauer Training Camp -- Video

2009-06-22T22:49:00.001-04:00

Team:

Excellent work on the mats tonight! I'm working on another video of some recent classes and hope to have it up in the coming days. In the meantime, here's a brief training session featuring Eduardo Telles at Jeff Gordon's Academy for Professor Sauer's Summer Training Camp.

See a familiar face in the video? Allan Manganello, from Louisville Martial Arts Academy, has a match with Eduardo at around the 4-minute mark. Good stuff.

See you all on the mat -- this Thursday!

2009 World Jiu-Jitsu Championships

2009-06-20T05:03:00.002-04:00

Team:

Here's a nice video narrative that summarizes the black belt matches from the 2009 Mundials.

Enjoy, and see you all on the mat later this morning!

Marcelo Garcia Interview

2009-06-19T21:50:00.002-04:00

Team:

Great interview with three-time world champion Marcelo Garcia. Check it out and we'll see you all on the mats tomorrow for 2.5-hours' worth of solid training!

http://www.graciemag.com/news/144/ARTICLE/14688/2009-06-19.html

Felipe Costa and Robert Lovi Seminar

2009-06-16T20:35:00.000-04:00

Team:

Attached is a cool video of World Champion Felipe Costa doing some light sparring with Pedro Sauer Black Belt Robert Lovi at a recent seminar. It's nice to see the action at a reduced pace. You get a chance to really examine the transitions between techniques and explore strategy at a deeper level.

Enjoy.

Sometimes You're The Hammer, Sometimes You're The Nail

2009-06-13T09:56:00.000-04:00

Team:

This video is of instructor Roy Dean competing in the 2009 Mundials. Remember, it takes a lot of courage to step out onto the mat, and, win or lose, you walk away with valuable lessons learned. The two matches below show this contrast in action, and we appreciate Mr. Dean for being so humble about his performance...win or lose.

Actually posting a video of oneself losing is a rarity on YouTube. But there's no shame in losing to Victor Estima, that's for sure. Enjoy.

2009 World Jiu-Jitsu Championships

2009-06-12T10:07:00.001-04:00

Team:

Here's an excellent recap of instructor Roy Dean's experience competing in the 2009 World Jiu-Jitsu Championships. Contains some great photos and an thorough summary of his time on the mat.

Enjoy, and I'll see you all on the mat when I return from Colorado!

http://www.roydeanacademy.com/blog/bjj_world_championship_2009/

More 2009 Mundials Action...

2009-06-10T17:26:00.000-04:00

Marcelo Garcia

Brown Belt Super Heavyweight Final

More to come...

2009 World Jiu-Jitsu Championships -- Roger Gracie Matches

2009-06-10T16:10:00.002-04:00

Team:

Here are a few of Roger Gracie's matches from the most recent World Championships. Not sure how long they'll be live on YouTube, but you'll notice that Roger Gracie is a machine. He won all of his matches (I believe there were nine total matches between his weight category and the open-class) with chokes from the mount.

There are some nice takedowns, sweeps and transitions in all three matches that I've linked together below. The next video will automatically play after the previous one ends. Again, I'm not sure how long these will be "live" so catch them while you can.

Train hard while I'm in Colorado -- see you all on the mat when I return!

How Not To Do An Armbar

2009-06-07T17:40:00.001-04:00

Open Mat Sunday, June 7 at 11:30 a.m.

2009-06-06T17:56:00.000-04:00

Team:

We will be hosting an open mat tomorrow at 11:30 a.m. Come ready to train gi or no-gi tomorrow. If you're working on the blue belt curriculum, bring a gi. The session will last until 1:30 p.m.

See you on the mat!

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Purple Belt Demonstration

2009-06-04T13:11:00.000-04:00

Team:

Another solid demonstration courtesy of the Roy Dean Academy.

No-Gi Starts Thursday, June 4

2009-06-03T20:38:00.003-04:00

Team:

Remember that tomorrow's class starts our Thursday/Saturday no-gi curriculum through August. Mondays are still going to be a designated gi class. Come ready to train hard and look at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu through a new lens.

See you all on the mat!

Brown Belt Demonstration -- Roy Dean Academy

2009-06-01T12:04:00.000-04:00

Team:

Here's an excellent demonstration of technique and knowledge of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Courtesy of instructor Roy Dean. You can check out his academy at www.roydeanacademy.com.

Wristlock From Guard

2009-05-30T18:19:00.000-04:00

Although illegal in tournaments, here's a slick wristlock you can work from the guard, as shown by Megaton Dias (one of Royler Gracie's blackbelts). Dias also conducted the first Gracie Jiu-Jitsu seminar I attended back in 1996.

Gracie Insider: Technique of the Month - Reverse Mount Transition

2009-05-26T18:47:00.002-04:00

Very cool technique, courtesy of the Gracie Academy.

Open Mat Tomorrow at 11:30

2009-05-24T18:38:00.001-04:00

Team:

We'll be hosting an open mat tomorrow, May 25 at 11:30 for all registered students of SCMA. Come ready to work hard before you enjoy your Memorial Day.

See you all on the mat!

BJJ Kids Cup Tournament -- Highlights

2009-05-23T20:25:00.001-04:00

Jiu-Jitsu Has No Limit

2009-05-22T22:46:00.000-04:00

Another example of why Jiu-Jitsu is "felt" and not "seen".

See you all on the mat -- tomorrow!

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Brown Belt Examination

2009-05-22T14:48:00.002-04:00

Very good technique and flow displayed in this Gracie Barra Brown Belt examination.

Open Mat: Sunday, May 24 at 11:30 a.m.

2009-05-22T07:13:00.000-04:00

Team:

Open Mat is a go for this Sunday at 11:30 a.m. Open to all registered members of SCMA, come ready to train and with a game plan. For those who have or are working towards their fourth stripe, bring the blue belt curriculum and carve out some time to work it, then work it again.

Remember, Monday's Memorial Day class will be canceled, so get your jiu-jitsu fix in at open mat.

See you then.

Always Attacking...

2009-05-20T00:28:00.000-04:00

Kron Gracie's mentality, what Professor Sauer spoke about at his last seminar. When fighting, go for the submission. Don't get caught up in a point battle. Position, then submission. Attack by combination, similar to the guard submission series we worked in class Monday night.

Eduardo Telles Open Guard Pass

2009-05-17T00:33:00.000-04:00

Team:

Here's a nice technique from Gracie Jiu-Jitsu black belt and world champion Eduardo Telles, who will a guest instructor at Master Pedro Sauer's Spring Training Camp in Maryland. Master Sauer spoke highly of his skill today, and below is an open guard pass that reflects well on Telles' technical ability.

See you all on the mat!

Day One With Master Pedro Sauer

2009-05-16T17:16:00.001-04:00

Team:

Master Pedro Sauer never disappoints in his seminars. Just finished Day 1 of 2 at Louisville Martial Arts Academy, where the majority of time was spent on classic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu self-defense. Master Sauer covered punch block to throw combinations, rear bear hug and gun defenses, and headlock escapes against a much larger and stronger opponent.

Open guard passes and half-guard strategy were also discussed. As always, we ended with some free training. Before the seminar, Master Sauer taught a kids seminar where several of our Spider Monkeys experienced their first seminar and had an opportunity to train with a variety of students from other schools.

We want to thank Louisville Martial Arts Academy for hosting another world-class event. The whole experience was nothing short of incredible today. Here are some photos of Master Sauer and the Spider Monkeys who attended.

More will be on the way tomorrow.

See you all on the mat!

May 16-17: Master Pedro Sauer Returns to Louisville Martial Arts Academy

2009-05-12T09:29:00.000-04:00

Team:

Don't forget that this weekend Master Pedro Sauer, a seventh-degree red/black belt under Helio and Rickson Gracie, returns to Louisville Martial Arts Academy for a two-day seminar (noon to 3 p.m. each day). The cost is $100 for one session and $150 for both days.

In addition, Master Sauer will also conduct a one-hour kids seminar from 11 a.m. to noon for $25.

This seminar is another incredible opportunity to improve your jiu-jitsu and self-defense skills, and learn from someone who is widely considered to be one of the best teachers and technicians in the world.

Click here for directions. No pre-registration is required, but it's always a good idea to arrive early to take care of the paperwork.

If you don't plan on attending the seminar, please note that we will have regularly scheduled classes at SCMA on Saturday.

See you all on the mat!

Cool Machado Brothers Demonstration

2009-05-10T00:03:00.001-04:00

Have a Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-09T17:55:00.004-04:00

Team:

Just a reminder that tomorrow's open mat is canceled due to Mother's Day. We know you jiu-jitsu junkies would like to bring mom in for some training, but we don't want to encourage such shenanigans. Instead, take your mom out for a nice dinner and spend some quality time with her.

Remember, jiu-jitsu has no limit, unless it's Mother's Day.

See you all on the mat -- on Monday!