John Zapala

16 Jun 16:39

I’m massive on visualizing - going over techniques way too many times in my head until I can do it on the mats. I listen to audiobooks like Gracie’s 32 Principles and the Zen Jiujitsu books. I study fights, but now I’m really excited about the UFC going BJJ in this new series: https://www.youtube.com/live/61M_EvA1eyU?si=SBRcvdzkoZjt-rmE

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26 May 22:25

Great topic! I’ll be visiting Randy Couture's gym in Las Vegas this June with my kids — can’t wait to soak it all in. You're right about calling ahead! If I can give any advice - be respectful. Traveling is a great way to experience new styles, make connections, and level up your game. Let me know if you’ve got any tips for Xtreme Couture!

25 May 13:54

Cus D'Amato - legendary trainer and Mike Tyson's coach - once said the most beautiful sound was when two punches sound like one. This week in striking, we are going to work on mastering the mechanics of the 1-2 combo. https://youtube.com/shorts/UAOtzR-lw5g?si=2aeozLijOFYvtOOy

22 Apr 09:31

I’d create a class called “Pressure & Presence: Jiujitsu for Dominance and Control.” It would focus on using weight, posture, and mindset to overwhelm opponents before submissions even begin—teaching how to control the fight through positioning and pressure. 

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07 Apr 09:21

This week's JiuJitsu Mat Chats center around Trust. Here is our Key Message About Trust:

Trust is earned through actions, honesty, and respect.

Trusting yourself is the first step to achieving your goals.

Building trust with others makes us stronger as a team and as individuals.

These mat chats encourage students to think about trust in multiple dimensions, fostering stronger relationships and self-confidence. "Trust is built with respect."

03 Mar 15:01

This week's mat chats will be about Decisions & Choices. "Decisions Shape Our Path!" Our discussions will center around how decisions matter (even the small ones), making smart choices, and how we can learn from our decisions - good and bad.

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Loop choke - but now that you know, is it still sneaky?

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17 Feb 14:17

This week's mat chats should help kids understand that winning is about more than just the outcome of a match. It's about effort, respect, and dedication.

Defining Winning"Winning is doing your best."

Chat 1: Winning Isn't Just About The Score

Chat 2: Winning With Respect

Chat 3: Winning Through Hard Work

09 Feb 13:16

Sometimes stepping back is the smartest move you can make. In Jiu-Jitsu, and life, constant action without reflection can stall your progress. A lion doesn’t have to hunt every single day to stay dangerous. 

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