This is a really good question, things have definitely changed since I've started Jiu Jitsu.  25 years ago there was no YouTube, Google was just getting off the ground, but more importantly, that was really no catalog or database of videos online. We used to look at books and magazines and and we spent hours trying to figure out how to do moves and techniques.  As time went on, YouTube became a good resource, and more recently instructional from Instructors became a norm and powerful tool to improve Jiu Jitsu.

As far as selection of an instructors, I always encourage to take two things under consideration... body type and ability to teach.  Learning from someone who's body type is much different could be challenging task specially at the beginning of the journey. Second, an ability to explain the concepts is a key, if an instructor is unable to clearly explain things, difficulty of learning goes up significantly. 

This is very important week for the kids, specially with the upcoming competition right around the corner. One, one of the most powerful and efficient takedowns in Jiu Jitsu, and one of the most powerful and effective submissions, all common up this week. What makes it even better both of them are on top of my favorite list. 

Join me this week for NoGi Intermediate on Monday and Wednesday.

Last few weeks, the intermediate class has been working on control and attacks from a Turtle position.  Now, since we all have deeper understandings how our partner is able to control and ultimately take advantage of the situation and their favor, this upcoming week  priority will be in defending and removing ourselves from compromise positions within Turtle system.

Peter Thanos  you have made some huge and amazing changes in your life, specially surrounding diet. Good for you!

What’s the biggest suggestion you would give to those who find nutrition challenging? 

Are you saying you want to be ready for the “equalizer” ? 

This is deep Scott Tresch. Thank you for sharing 

Russell Usauskas good point. 

I think we can assume only certain things, they will always will be a large amount of unknown, specially if we don't know the other person. However, certain things will be safe to assume, bigger and heavier partner will have weight in his advantage. A tall partner will have easier access and distance control. A smaller person will have ability to find small spaces and escape easier.

I do believe more we know about the person, most strategic approach we can have. However, I also do thing. We often underestimate the amount of information that we can learn just by evaluating situation around us.

Jiu Jitsu is a game of strategy, how do you maneuver physically and technically challenges is the question… 

For me personally is not who is faster, stronger, or more experienced but who is able to expose weaknesses at the current situation/time. Jiu Jitsu is a puzzle, it’s a game… be ready ahead of time, study everything, know your partner, know your body and movement.