Category Archives: Uncategorized
An interesting experience
The other week I was contacted by a gentleman who had read this blog and asked if I was interested in a paid gig writing short self-defense related articles “aimed at beginners interested in protecting themselves against random attacks” for … Continue reading
An Experiment in Progress
Periodically I get jealous of the guys who are really, really good at jiu-jitsu and I vow to try to catch up somehow. Perhaps I can take my lunch break to attend the noon classes or start being more consistent … Continue reading
Neil Adams Seminar Review
If you know anything about judo, you know who Neil Adams is: World champion. Two-time Olympic medalist. Five-time European champion. 8th dan. Author of numerous books and videos. Adams is one of the foremost judo instructors in the world. Being … Continue reading
Carlson Gracie Jr Seminar Review
Sometimes it just takes a while before I’m ready for certain lessons. I’ve mentioned before that I love attending weekend training seminars. Over the years I’ve attended dozens of seminars taught by a wide range of instructors covering a variety … Continue reading
Book Review: ConCom: Conflict Communication A New Paradigm in Conscious Communication
I’m starting to think that everything Rory Miller has ever written should be required reading for all martial artists, regardless of their style. Miller is an experienced martial artist and corrections officer. He came to the attention of the larger … Continue reading
Steal My Technique
Being a great martial artist or a great fighter doesn’t make you a great teacher or a great coach, and vice-versa. The ability to demonstrate flawless skills in a fight is different from the ability to communicate those skills to … Continue reading
What makes a style?
The following post is adapted from a comment I made in a discussion over at MartialTalk. Some folks were having some argument over the definition and the boundaries of a martial arts style. One perspective which came up is that … Continue reading
Uncertainties
One of the toughest things for most of us to face up to seems to be the uncertainties in our knowledge. I’m not talking about the obvious gaps in our knowledge. I’ve never studied organic chemistry and I have no … Continue reading
Matt Smith seminar
There’s almost nothing I enjoy doing on a weekend more than attending martial arts seminars. So it was that yesterday I braved blowing snow and treacherous roads driving to Valhalla Academy for a 4-hour BJJ seminar with guest instructor Matt … Continue reading
Book review: Dueling with O-sensei
I earn a living by writing computer code. This means that any time I watch a movie portraying a programmer or “hacker” or “computer expert” I get to wince and bite my tongue to avoid pointing out the sheer ridiculousness … Continue reading
BJJ Contemplations 