There was an attack in Jiu-Jitsu class recently where the opponent throws a left hand, step-through roundhouse punch. The defense involved blocking, stepping in, and sweeping the opponent’s leg resulting in going to the ground. This isn’t surprising at all as I’m there to learn how to do this type of counter-defense. What I noticed though was the difference between this and Kenpo. Kenpo beginners learn to create distance and counterattack with ranged strikes (like kicks or punches). Jiu-Jitsu focused on moving the attack to the ground. So I’ve pondered when do you stand up with your opponent and when do you initiate taking the fight to the ground. Certainly some external circumstances will dictate various answers. Multiple opponents would almost guarantee you don’t initiate taking the fight to the ground. … Read entire article »

The other day my Jiu-Jitsu instructor, Mr. Bosquez, was telling me the story of a recent advanced class where he had to “humble” a few of the students. No one had anything hurt except their pride, which is what he was setting out to accomplish. He said those students had shown signs in recent classes of being satisfied with where they were in the Art. I saw where he was going, but wanted to play … Read entire article »