Tag: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

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The Journey Of The Black Belt

On By Forged Bjj Krav MagaIn (BJJ)Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Beverly MA, BJJ Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, BJJ Peabody MA, BJJ salem MA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Peabody MA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Salem MA, Bullying, Danvers MA, Fitness, Forged Krav Maga, Forged Self Defense, Kickboxing, Kids Martial Arts, Krav Maga, Krav Maga Beverly Ma, Krav Maga North Shore, Krav Maga Peabody MA, Krav maga salem ma, Krav Maga Self Defense, Krav Maga Self-Defense, Lynn MA, Marblehead MA, MArtial Arts Salem MA, Mixed Martial Arts, Peabody MA, Salem MA, Self Defense, Self Defense Salem MA, Self-Defense Beverly MA, Self-defense Danvers MA., Self-Defense Marblehead MA, Self-Defense Peabody MALeave a comment

                       If you’ve ever trained Martial Arts, you’ve probably received the infamous question: ‘Are you a black belt?’ No matter what discipline you train, it’s the first thing on everyone’s mind. The quality of ‘being a black belt’ seems on par with being a superhero, or having your hands registered as deadly weapons. Black belts certainly deserve praise for the countless hours of training they put in, hundreds of techniques they learned, and unflinching dedication that it took for them to get there. However, should earning a black belt be ultimate goal for a martial artist? It’s what we’re all striving for, isn’t it? Well, ask any coach or talented martial artist and they’ll tell you that their journey didn’t end at the black belt. 

A White Belt Who Never Quits 

            The classic martial arts idiom goes, “A Black Belt is a white belt who never quit.” In martial arts, determination, effort, and willingness to learn are much more important than any belt rank. In some ways, the white belt is the hardest rank to earn, because it requires taking a risk. What if you fail? What if you’re not cut out to be a black belt someday? Sometimes, the most difficult part of a journey is just beginning it. But in the encouraging words of Woody Allen, “90% of life is just showing up.” For those who have the courage to start something new, the rewards will be great. That is why we never forget where we came from, and welcome each new white belt brave enough to start their journey. 

As martial artists learn and grow, their belt colors are designed to represent the sweat and grit that have gone into their training. Persevering through difficulty, frustration, dips, plateaus, and roadblocks along the way can be challenging, but above all, martial arts rewards consistency and sticktoitveness. Every Black Belt who ever lived was once a white belt who barely knew how to throw a punch. For that reason, martial artists stress the difference between getting a black belt, and earning one. Anyone can go online and buy a piece of fabric, but it takes dedication and hard work to truly earn the rank. Mostly, it takes a willingness to be a white belt first. 

The Journey Never Ends 

Why do martial artists always refer to training as a ‘journey’? Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Krav Maga are skills that can always be improved, and never be mastered. As the belt rank goes up, the scope of knowledge left to acquire doesn’t narrow – it grows wider. In fact, when an experienced martial artist earns their black belt, often they find that their journey has only just begun. For this reason, few people quit once they’ve hit this milestone. At that point in their journey, they’ve likely realized that having a black belt doesn’t mean they can’t benefit from any more training. There will always be more to learn, and if a martial artist is truly committed to improving, they’ll be able to learn from any situation. Cross-training between disciplines, helping other students, and teaching are all ways that black belts seek new opportunities to learn. Most importantly, they form a community of people who never quit, and encourage each other and students of all belt ranks to appreciate the journey over a final destination.

We offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu(BJJ),  Krav Maga/Self-Defense and Children’s Programs.

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Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu/BJJ: What Is It And Is It Right For You?

On By Forged Bjj Krav MagaIn (BJJ)Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, anti-bully, Beverly MA, BJJ Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, BJJ Peabody MA, BJJ salem MA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Peabody MA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Salem MA, Bullying, Children's Martial Arts Training, Danvers MA, Forged Self Defense, Kids Martial Arts, Lynn MA, Marblehead MA, MArtial Arts Salem MA, Peabody MA, Salem MA, Self Defense, Self Defense Salem MA, Self-Defense Beverly MA, Self-Defense Marblehead MA, Self-Defense Peabody MALeave a comment

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu/BJJ  is a popular martial arts discipline that is practiced worldwide. It is popular for many reasons, such as the fitness benefits, community, competitive sport aspect, and practical applicability to real life Self Defense situations. Jiu-Jitsu teaches students the discipline and control to de-escalate altercations before they begin, and how to subdue an opponent without punches or kicks. Classes are a great workout, specifically for improving functional strength and endurance. Jiu-Jitsu teaches students how to control their bodies and those of their opponents, making it a great choice for new and longtime martial artists alike.

Advantages of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu/BJJ

BJJ is a grappling art, unlike boxing or karate, which means that it doesn’t involve any punches or kicks. Although this may seem to put it at a disadvantage against other disciplines, it actually allows martial artists to control their opponent more effectively by eliminating the space between them. In a Jiu-Jitsu round, the two opponents are connected at all times, fighting to move from position to position. A round ends either when the timer rings, or one opponent taps to the other’s submission. In BJJ classes, students are taught how to manipulate one another’s energy to allow them to get into a dominant position, and how to safely perform submissions to end a fight. In tournaments, a good submission can win a match, and on the street they can keep an attacker subdued without having to throw a punch.

Since Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is all about control, natural advantages like height and strength are less valuable than discipline and knowledge of the art. Jiu-Jitsu is widely agreed to be the most egalitarian discipline when it comes to opponents of different sizes and strengths. Although good fitness is always useful in a physical art, practicing BJJ actually builds functional strength due to the positions that must be maintained during a match.

What Training BJJ Looks Like

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes at Forged Self Defense cater to students of all levels, from beginners to black belts. Classes usually start with some cardiovascular warmups and stretching, followed by instructional periods during which a coach will demonstrate a technique and give students time to practice it with one another. High intensity drills give students a chance to train the technique with real energy and break a sweat. Classes always end with time for ‘rolling’, or pairing up with a partner and working all the techniques and positions they know. The intensity of rolling can depend on what the coach specifies, the rank of the students, or how gentle or hard they want to go.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu allows students to work at their own pace, and encourages those with more experience to help newcomers. It is incredible for higher-ranking BJJ students to watch white belts begin to understand the fundamentals and grow exponentially in their first few months. The near infinite number of techniques and ways to practice them promotes creativity, and allows students to learn from everyone around them, regardless of belt rank. Jiu jitsu is not something that can ever be mastered, because everyone learns and practices it in their own way. If you are looking for something that challenges your body and mind, teaches you Self Defense, offers a good workout, and provides a great community, give Forged Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu a try.

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Forged Self Defense Salem MA, provides the most realistic and practical Self Defense programs for the North Shore Area including,

Peabody MA, Salem MA, Beverly MA, Lynn MA, Marblehead MA, Danvers MA

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The Importance Of Ground Fighting Along With Stand Up 

On By Forged Bjj Krav MagaIn (BJJ)Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, anti-bully, Beverly MA, BJJ beverly Ma, BJJ Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, BJJ Peabody MA, BJJ salem MA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Peabody MA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Salem MA, Children's Martial Arts Training, Danvers MA, Forged Krav Maga, Forged Self Defense, Inspirational, Kickboxing, Kids Martial Arts, Krav Maga, Krav Maga Self Defense, Lynn MA, Marblehead MA, MArtial Arts Salem MA, Mixed Martial Arts, MMA, Peabody MA, Salem MA, Self Defense, Self Defense Salem MA, Self-Defense Beverly MA, Self-defense Danvers MA., Self-Defense Marblehead MA, Self-Defense Peabody MA, Self-defense salem MALeave a comment

Krav Maga, Kickboxing and Boxing are great striking arts for fighting on your feet. No matter how good you are with your striking, you must be equally proficient on the ground. In order to have the most realistic Self Defense techniques when dealing with a bigger, stronger opponent or with someone who can close the distance and force a grappling situation on you, you must have some Jiu Jitsu skills. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teaches us that no matter how small you are, you can be able to gain a dominant position on your opponent no matter how big they may be.

Did you know that 80-90% of street fights end up on the ground? So, relying only on your striking skills to defend yourself is not only naive but is also dangerous considering the statistics.  Fact of the matter is: if you don’t know how to defend yourself on the ground, then you really don’t know how to defend yourself! The importance of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is to know how to defend against a ground attack and to be able to escape that attack and get back to your feet as fast as possible in a street scenario.

BJJ (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu) is a martial art and combat sport that focuses on grappling and ground fighting with the goal of gaining a dominant position.  It uses joint locks and choke holds to force an opponent to submit and also teaches you how to escape encounters on the ground.  Today, BJJ is practiced for fun, self defense or sport by men and women, hobbyists, professional fighters, military, and law enforcement alike. A lot of people take BJJ for fun, or for the sport element of training in Martial Arts, but the practical street elements are there if the self defense situation were to arise where you needed to get back to your feet in a real life situation.

Looking for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu  Salem Ma?

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978-745-8511

We offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu(BJJ),  Krav Maga/Self-Defense and Children’s Programs.

Forged Self Defense Salem MA, provides the most realistic and practical Self Defense programs for the North Shore Area including,

Peabody MA, Salem MA, Beverly MA, Lynn MA, Marblehead MA, Danvers MA

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Benefits of Martial Arts Training for Kids

On By Forged Bjj Krav MagaIn (BJJ)Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, anti-bully, Beverly MA, BJJ beverly Ma, BJJ Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, BJJ Peabody MA, BJJ salem MA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Peabody MA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Salem MA, Bullying, Children's Martial Arts Training, Danvers MA, Forged Krav Maga, Forged Self Defense, Kids Martial Arts, Krav Maga, Krav Maga Beverly Ma, Krav Maga North Shore, Krav Maga Peabody MA, Krav Maga Self Defense, Krav Maga Self-Defense, Lynn MA, Marblehead MA, MArtial Arts Salem MA, Mixed Martial Arts, Peabody MA, Salem MA, Self Defense, Self Defense Salem MA, Self-Defense Beverly MA, Self-defense Danvers MA., Self-Defense Marblehead MA, Self-Defense Peabody MA, Self-defense salem MALeave a comment

Children’s brains are like sponges: they soak everything up and always need new stimulation. Enrolling young kids in extracurricular activities can provide them with a structured way of learning outside of school and a community of peers to support them. However, finding the right fit according to their specific learning style, developmental needs, and temperament is no easy feat. Martial Arts Training is an extremely popular choice, with over 3 million children in the U.S. participating according to recent statistics, and for good reason. The emphasis on discipline and self-respect in martial arts culture combined with a child-oriented format gives kids the perfect outlet to work on behavior, make friends, and get their energy out. 

Youth Curriculum  

   Martial Arts attracts all types of children. Those who do well in a classroom, and those who don’t. Those who make friends easily, and those who struggle. Those who learn visually, and those who benefit from a hands-on approach. The youth Krav Maga and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu curriculum at the Forged Self-Defense uses a fast paced and varied mixture of activities to make sure everyone is learning skills and having fun, no matter how their brain functions. Line drills in which instructors hold pads for students to work a technique, before sending them off to run through an obstacle course, is a staple drill to keep energy high. Group activities encourage students to work together and learn each other’s names, so no one is left out. Games incorporating techniques and fitness make sure students get their exercise in and energy out so they are happy and tired by the end of each class. The curriculum is designed to be engaging and hands-on, so students are never bored or stuck in one activity for too long. 

Values 

            On top of drills and activities targeted at developing skills like listening, teamwork, and intensity, instructors sit down with the class in a circle towards the end of each class for a “mat chat” to talk about martial arts values such as self-discipline, respect, and gratitude. The kids are encouraged to participate and offer their own interpretations of the topic to show their understanding. Veteran students can often define these complicated concepts in their own words and explain how to use them in everyday life. 

            Since the best time to form habits is in childhood, Forged instructors teach students the right habits to build to succeed in life. Sometimes the mat chat topic of the month is “the mindset of a champion”, or “why should we treat ourselves with respect?” To reinforce these core tenets, students perform both traditional martial arts customs such as bowing to their partners to pay their respect, as well as new traditions such as responding to the call-back “Put your hands in the air and say ‘We’re awesome’!” 

            The effects of this teaching can be seen in how Forged Self Defense students treat one another, and the progress new students make after just a few months. When a student receives their first belt, they are part of a team that they both want to support and earn the support of. Above all, the Forged instructors try to teach that the goal of Martial Arts is not a black belt, but everything they learn on their journey to the black belt and beyond.

We offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu(BJJ),  Krav Maga/Self-Defense and Children’s Programs.

Visit Our Website! www.forgedsalem.com

Don’t Wait!  Call TODAY to sign up for your FREE Intro LESSON 978-745-8511 

Forged Self Defense, Salem MA, provides the most realistic and practical self-defense programs for Massachusetts and North Shore Area including: Peabody MA, Salem MA, Beverly MA, Lynn MA, Marblehead MA, Danvers MA

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Training Martial Arts Through the Holiday Season 

On By Forged Bjj Krav MagaIn (BJJ)Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, anti-bully, Beverly MA, BJJ beverly Ma, BJJ Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, BJJ Peabody MA, BJJ salem MA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Peabody MA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Salem MA, Children's Martial Arts Training, Danvers MA, Fitness, Forged Krav Maga, Forged Self Defense, Inspirational, Kickboxing, Kids Martial Arts, Krav Maga, Krav Maga Beverly Ma, Krav Maga North Shore, Krav Maga Peabody MA, Krav maga salem ma, Krav Maga Self Defense, Krav Maga Self-Defense, Lynn MA, Marblehead MA, MArtial Arts Salem MA, Mixed Martial Arts, Peabody MA, Salem MA, Self Defense, Self Defense Salem MA, Self-Defense Beverly MA, Self-defense Danvers MA., Self-Defense Marblehead MA, Self-Defense Peabody MALeave a comment

The holiday season is a time for celebration and joy, but for many, it can also represent stress. The tasks of dealing with family in town, buying gifts, and adjusting to the coldest and darkest time of the year make it easy to feel overwhelmed in December and lose momentum in Martial Arts Training. The key to balancing festivities with mental and physical health is to stay consistent with the activities that keep you active and working towards a goal. 

Same Year, New You

Everyone knows about the famous statistic: only 8% of people accomplish their New Year’s resolutions, but why is that? People accomplish great things all the time, so how is it possible that so few can keep a New Year’s resolution? The problem is that as appealing as the idea of a ‘fresh start’ might be, it’s not the best way to pursue a goal you’re truly committed to. If you truly want to change your life in some way, why wait for a certain date to begin? 

When we try to start a goal anew, even if we’ve already tried and ended up in the 92% the previous year, we choose to forget the mistakes that we made in the past rather than learning from them. Instead of waiting for the New Year to begin a resolution – whether it be getting into shape, attending more martial arts classes, gaining confidence, or anything at all – make a plan the moment you identify the goal and go from there. Slipping up or straying from your trajectory is normal. What matters is that you get right back on track instead of waiting for the next year to roll around to start again. 

Consistency 

Training Martial Arts is a journey that requires patience, determination, and above all, consistency. In Krav Maga and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu/BJJ, belts and stripes aren’t just handed out. They’re earned through hard work, pushing through apathy and exhaustion, and showing up day after day. While it may be tempting around the holiday season to let training go and promise to work extra hard in the New Year, this mindset may ultimately lead to more stress down the line. No one likes playing catch-up, and staying consistent with training can maintain steady progress and prevent unnecessary burnout. After all, there’s no way to hack martial arts training. Like almost any skill in life, it takes practice and a willingness never to give up. 

Family 

            The holidays are a time for spending with family and friends and showing them how much we appreciate each other. Communities come in many shapes and forms, and many are proud to call their coaches and teammates at Forged Self Defense their martial arts family. We come to Forged to train as well as spend time with our friends and help each other grow and learn. Martial Arts is a skill that is impossible to learn without forming connections, whether it be a personal relationship between a student and a coach, the mutual bond between training partners, or the sense of community in a class of martial artists sweating and having fun. In the spirit of the holidays, it’s worth letting your martial arts family know how much you value them.

We offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu(BJJ),  Krav Maga/Self-Defense and Children’s Programs.

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Forged Self Defense, Salem MA, provides the most realistic and practical self-defense programs for Massachusetts and North Shore Area including: Peabody MA, Salem MA, Beverly MA, Lynn MA, Marblehead MA, Danvers MA

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Benefits of Martial Arts Training for Women

On By Forged Bjj Krav MagaIn (BJJ)Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, anti-bully, Beverly MA, BJJ beverly Ma, BJJ Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, BJJ Peabody MA, BJJ salem MA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Peabody MA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Salem MA, Bullying, Children's Martial Arts Training, Danvers MA, Fitness, Forged Krav Maga, Forged Self Defense, Kickboxing, Kids Martial Arts, Krav Maga, Krav Maga Beverly Ma, Krav Maga North Shore, Krav Maga Peabody MA, Krav Maga Self Defense, Lynn MA, Marblehead MA, MArtial Arts Salem MA, Mixed Martial Arts, Peabody MA, Salem MA, Self Defense, Self Defense Salem MA, Self-Defense Beverly MA, Self-defense Danvers MA., Self-Defense Marblehead MA, Self-Defense Peabody MALeave a comment

            There are many different reasons why women choose to practice Krav Maga or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Martial arts is a journey and a life style that can benefit anyone regardless of gender, but many women are drawn to it for their own personal reasons. Krav Maga and BJJ don’t require genders to be separated for training purposes since they are not traditional team sports, so the community is very integrated and inclusive. The Self Defense aspect appeals to many women hoping to feel more secure and empowered by developing their own abilities, or to improve self-esteem and confidence.

Confidence and Community  

            Women face many challenges to their sense of safety and confidence in everyday life, whether they be physical threats, sexist remarks, or emotional drainage. Learning to be an upstander and losing the fear of taking up space is a crucial part of many women’s Martial Arts journeys. This is taught through developing skills that grant students a sense of accomplishment and belief in their own potential. The kind of people that form this community are extremely supportive of one another, welcoming to newcomers, and always pushing each other to succeed. Women especially lift each other up and strive to help each other realize their own potential.        

Self Defense 

Krav Maga training emphasizes strength and capability over aggression and dominance, and focuses on ways to avoid conflicts just as much as ways to face them. On top of physical techniques, Forged Self Defense teaches students how to avoid becoming a victim by displaying Confidence and capability in their everyday life. For example, someone who walks tall, looks people in the eye, and asserts what they need is not an easy mark for an aggressor. Women, who are often pressured to accept negative behavior, can apply these tenets to feel more self-assured and comfortable in both tricky situations as well as day to day life. 

While body language can go a long way, many women hope to gain from martial arts a better understanding of what to do should a situation escalate and they need to defend themselves against a man. The Krav Maga curriculum at Forged Self Defense includes many techniques that are effective no matter the size or shape of the two opponents, and often provides many variations for different scenarios. Defenses for attacks like a rear bear hug or a choke from behind directly address some of the concerns that students may have, but questions about specific situations are strongly encouraged. 

Furthermore, proficiency in Self Defense concepts taught on the curriculum can enable students to come up with their own solutions to problems, and in-class drills help to develop other necessary skills such as quick reactions, improvisation, and dealing with stressful encounters. These benefits and the cooperative community built around them are part of the reason why so many women as well as men choose to train Krav Maga and BJJ.

We offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu(BJJ),  Krav Maga/Self-Defense and Children’s Programs.

Visit Our Website! www.forgedsalem.com

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Forged Self Defense, Salem MA, provides the most realistic and practical self-defense programs for Massachusetts and North Shore Area including: Peabody MA, Salem MA, Beverly MA, Lynn MA, Marblehead MA, Danvers MA

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Belt Blindness In Your Martial Arts Journey

On By Forged Bjj Krav MagaIn (BJJ)Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, BJJ Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Dragon Within Martial Arts, DWMMA, DWMMA - Dragon Within Mixed Martial Arts, Fitness, Kickboxing, Krav Maga, Mixed Martial Arts, MMA, Self Defense, Thai Kickboxing, UncategorizedLeave a comment

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Belt blindness, when the quest for the next belt becomes more important than the martial art itself, is a common affliction among those training in martial arts like Krav Maga, Thai Kickboxing and  Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu(BJJ). Of course students can be proud of belts they have earned but it is important not to lose sight of the fact that you aren’t working toward your next belt rather, you are furthering your Martial Arts training and your commitment and work are acknowledged by belts. The differences may seem subtle but the effects can be significant.

In pursuit of the belt

Chances are most didn’t start with the sole goal of earning belts but at some point the martial arts journey became secondary to receiving a belt. Obsession over what belt they have, who ranks higher, how they compare to others, and how long to the next belt, took over. And this leads to the primary problem with belt blindness…

Worrying or agonizing over your belt changes your focus to others, where a martial arts journey is about you and the changes you’ve made. When you are frustrated with your coach for not bestowing the next belt or obsessive of the belts of your fellow students you are throwing your energy away on things you have no control over instead of focusing on your Martial Arts Training. You lose the opportunity to truly progress in your martial art and may even irritate yourself into quitting.

Belt levels generally require a demonstration of specific skills but martial arts progression isn’t simply about a checklist. It is a combination of skill growth, time, respect, attitude and commitment. When you pursue a belt instead of the art, your training becomes focused on the checklist not on your overall progress. Yes, the factors on the sheet are important but only working on what you think needs to be done for the belt can blind you to your personal progression opportunities.

In pursuit of a martial art

A martial arts journey requires patience, humility, and an openness to learning which are generally lacking in the pursuit of a belt. A martial artist will learn not only from drills but from experiences, making mistakes, and overcoming obstacles. When you do earn your next belt, it will be a personal representation of all the work you’ve done not simply the completion of a checklist.

Martial arts training can become an integral part of your life by providing any number of benefits like fitness, stress relief, increased confidence in and out of the Martial Arts School, or pride in meeting challenges. These benefits can be easily missed or dismissed if your focus is the next belt and not on your personal journey.

The day you earn a black belt in Krav Maga, Thai Kickboxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu(BJJ) may be the first time you truly appreciate the value of your belt because although your belt journey is done, your martial art journey is just beginning. The experiences that have brought you to the black belt have also taught you that you are never truly done, you are always a white belt, and there are always ways to grow and develop as a martial artist. Those that never move beyond the mindset of a belt quest are unlikely to ever earn a black belt, not because of a coach’s decision, but rather because a pursuit without a purpose isn’t worth pursuing.

When you pursue a martial art, each belt is a representation of your journey. When you pursue a belt you get a belt. Which path you choose is completely up to you.

Dragon Within Mixed Martial Arts offers the most  functional and realistic self-defense and fitness programs in the North Shore area.

We offer Thai Kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu(BJJ), Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), Krav Maga and Children’s programs.

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Can Martial Arts Help You Reach Your Fitness Goals…

On By Forged Bjj Krav MagaIn (BJJ)Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, BJJ Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Dragon Within Martial Arts, DWMMA, DWMMA - Dragon Within Mixed Martial Arts, Fitness, Kickboxing, Krav Maga, Mixed Martial Arts, MMA, Self Defense, Thai Kickboxing, UncategorizedLeave a comment

Gold Fish

There are hundreds of options for conditioning but few have the all around benefits associated with martial arts training like Krav Maga, Thai Kickboxing and (BJJ)Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Classes can offer both cardiovascular and strength benefits through dynamic routines. They also provide an alternative to single focus activities like running or lifting and improve agility which can transfer to other sports or physical activities.

Interval Training

Most martial arts training include intervals, periods of high intensity followed by rest or low level    activity. Rounds may be 2-5 minutes of all out effort with a rest in between rounds. From the bleachers, 2-5 minutes may not seem like much, but working at high intensity can make those few minutes feel much longer. Training in these burst help your muscles work more efficiently under high demands and recover quickly in case you have another round to go. This type of conditioning not only improves your martial arts capabilities but is also associated with:

  • Improved cardiovascular endurance for workouts and day to day activities
  • Improved muscle strength and power
  • Increased metabolism (calorie burning) during and for a few hours after workout

Martial Arts training includes a variety of interval training options. Pad drills in Thai Kickboxing have 2-3 minute sessions where you’re working hard, then you hold for your partner and have down time before you do your next round. (BJJ) Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has 2-3 minute rolls which may be all out or have bursts of activity. Krav Maga principle requires all out defense efforts and training follows that suit. In any of the activities you have potential to reach heavy breathing intensity then have time to recoup before you go again.

Interval training is suitable for the beginner to advanced students since everyone works according to their abilities. Beginners may use rest period as actual rest where more advanced students may use lower activity during the time to keep it challenging.

Core Conditioning

Very few, if any, martial arts skills can be done without the core. A punch loses its bite without pivots and the core helps transfer power from the hip pivot up to the arm. A (BJJ) Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu roll would simply be flailing legs and arms without the core to connect and move your body. Kicks would be impossible without the core’s ability to stabilize the rest of the body while energy moves through the hip and leg.

The core is constantly challenged in martial arts training because it is called on to stabilize you during certain movements, load or transfer power, and manage sudden explosive changes in direction. It is a nice alternative to millions of crunches. Core strength will improve as you practice and many martial art skills will improve as your core strength grows. A strong core will also help to:

  • Decrease the risk of injury to the back and other areas of the body
  • Improve balance and stability
  • Improve efficiency of movement

Muscle Conditioning

Muscle training is associated with strength but faster reflexes, being able to work in full range of motion, and agility are equally important benefits. Healthy muscles also decrease wear and tear on joints, reduce chance of injury, and increase energy levels. Traditional strength training can increase strength but does not always improve function.

Improvements to muscle strength are achieved by overloading muscles and in martial arts this is often done with body weight based exercises. In addition to providing overload, body weight exercises can engage smaller stabilizer muscles that often go unchallenged with traditional strength training. Stabilizer muscles help make movements more efficient and protect joints. Most martial art exercises also encourage movement through a full range of motion which can help maintain flexibility. This type of training can lead to both strength and agility improvements.

Of course, as with any training, the overall effects will depend on the work you put into it.

Dragon Within Mixed Martial Arts offers the most  functional and realistic self-defense and fitness programs in the North Shore area.

We offer Thai Kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu(BJJ), Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), Krav Maga and Children’s programs.

Visit Our Website! www.DWMMA.com

Don’t Wait!  Call TODAY to sign up for your FREE PRIVATE LESSON 978-745-8511 Dragon Within Mixed Martial Arts, Salem MA, provides the most realistic and practical self-defense programs for Massachusetts and North Shore Area including: Peabody MA, Salem MA, Beverly MA, Lynn MA, Marblehead MA, Danvers MA

Where Martial Arts and Self Defense Meet…and Miss

On By Forged Bjj Krav MagaIn (BJJ)Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Dragon Within Martial Arts, DWMMA, Fitness, Kickboxing, Krav Maga, Mixed Martial Arts, Self Defense, Thai Kickboxing1 Comment

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Perhaps you’ve also started or studied a Martial Art as an alternative workout, as part of your path to competition, weight loss, or just general conditioning. You may not have started martial arts specifically for self defense but it’s probably entered your mind. It seems reasonable that you can defend yourself if the need arises but do all martial arts like Boxing, Kickboxing, (BJJ)Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, automatically add up to Self Defense?

Self Defense Difference

As good as your punches or takedowns may be how confident are you that those skills could get the job done against anyone with any degree of training? All martial arts have the humbling moments when you are on the receiving end of a punch, kick, or arm bar. We know that defenses no matter how good aren’t 100%, so what would happen if even one hit got through in a Self Defense scenario? How about if your attacker is an expert in takedowns or the attacker is armed with weapons?

Self Defense has different rules than sport training or more accurately Self Defense has no rules:

  • You’re not matched by physical size or abilities. Chances are your attacker is larger or at least sure they can overpower you.
  • You’re not working with a training partner, just an attacker with their own agenda.
  • It’s not going to happen in a controlled environment…no padded mats in real world just slippery or uneven surfaces and hard ground.
  • Weapons and multiple attackers may be present which means your focus needs to change.

Krav Maga training is not sport training it is solely focused on Self Defense. It is solely focused on getting home safe.

Krav Maga—Combined Defense

Relying solely on your ability to physically overwhelm your attacker through strength or superior skill is a dangerous gamble when you know nothing about the person attacking you. Krav Maga starts with the assumption that you are physically overpowered and instead relies on overwhelming the thought process of the attacker. The attacker’s thought process can be interrupted by a series of moves that can:

  • Maintain constant pressure & counterattack
  • Create pain
  • Off balance the attacker

Fortunately, the strikes and techniques used to interrupt the thought process come from a variety of martial arts so what you’ve learned so far is often incorporated into Krav Maga Self Defense techniques. If you’ve been training, you’ve got a head start. What you may need to close the gap is a change in the thought process, both yours and the attackers.

Krav it Up

Because Krav Maga was designed for a wide variety of people and inclusive of the best techniques of several different martial arts the end product will have a unique signature for each user. So if you’ve trained in Boxing, those are techniques you may build your Krav approach on, if you’ve trained in (BJJ)Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu you may lean on those techniques.

If you are currently taking classes in Boxing, Kickboxing, or other Martial Arts consider exploring Krav Maga to better develop Self Defense strategies using the skills you already have. If regular classes aren’t possible, Self Defense training seminars may help you piece together a Self Defense strategy that suits your strengths. Even a brief introduction can help you begin to understand how to adapt your current skills for efficient Self Defense.

 

Dragon Within Mixed Martial Arts offers the most  functional and realistic self-defense and fitness programs in the North Shore area.

We offer Thai Kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu(BJJ), Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), Krav Maga and Children’s programs.

Visit Our Website! www.DWMMA.com

Don’t Wait!  Call TODAY to sign up for your FREE PRIVATE LESSON 978-745-8511 Dragon Within Mixed Martial Arts, Salem MA, provides the most realistic and practical self-defense programs for Massachusetts and North Shore Area including: Peabody MA, Salem MA, Beverly MA, Lynn MA, Marblehead MA, Danvers MA

Supporting Your Martial Arts Training

On By Forged Bjj Krav MagaIn DWMMA - Dragon Within Mixed Martial ArtsLeave a comment

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A commitment to Martial Arts and Self-Defense includes regular training and practice. Sorting through the puzzle of (BJJ) Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, improving reaction time of Thai Kickboxing, and kicking butt in Krav Maga all require a sound mind and body during training. Some basic steps will help you support your physical and mental health to keep your training on track.  

Sleep

Your body uses sleep to rest and recover, the brain uses it to sort out everything it processed that day and get ready for the next. Not getting enough sleep can affect mood, energy, and mental and physical performance. Over time, not getting enough sleep can even increase risk for chronic health conditions like heart disease and diabetes.

Perhaps you rely on chugging caffeine to stumble through low sleep days, but poor sleep habits will still:

  • Make it harder for your body to recover. Your muscles need to recover from intensive workouts and sleep is the best recovery option.
  • Make concentration difficult during training. Lack of sleep may also make it more difficult to remember what you are learning.
  • Contribute to weight gain which can sabotage all your conditioning efforts.

Adults generally need 7-9 hours of sleep, teens about 8-10 hours, and children around 9-11 hours. The more routine you make your sleep time, the better your sleep will be. Light from electronic devices, including your phone, can make it harder to fall asleep. Avoid these devices for at least an hour before bed.

Nutrition

Physical conditioning needs good fuel and proper building blocks for recovery. If you aren’t supporting your physical efforts with good food, you’ll slow or even stop your progress. Good nutrition does not require extreme diets instead follow basic steps:

  • Focus on whole foods. This means foods that are as close to their natural state as possible. The more processed food is the less nutrition it tends to have.
  • Focus on eating well 80% of the time and allowing some wiggle room 20% of the time. Find healthy options that you enjoy.
  • Beware of diets that severely limit a single food group. They are generally no more successful than plans with balanced food groups, are hard to maintain in the long run, and can decrease your energy during workouts.

Staying hydrated is also important for your best physical performance and recovery. This can be simply done by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, through your workout, and after your workout.

Balanced Training

Commitment to training is an important part of martial arts. Physical challenges are part of the process and breaking out of training ruts may require extra effort but there are limits. Overtraining is the point where training stops being beneficial and starts becoming an obstruction to progress; training intensity overcomes the ability of the body to recover. Physical signs can include:

  • Having low energy, fatigue
  • Frequent muscle and joint pain
  • General aches and pain
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Decrease in performance
  • Headaches
  • Lower immunity—may lead to more frequent colds or sore throats

Overtraining can also lead to:

  • Loss of interest in training
  • Irritability and moodiness
  • Depression
  • Loss of appetite

It is difficult to predict overtraining since everyone reacts different to a training routine. Once you begin to see these signs, scale back on your routine and begin to build a more realistic plan. To help avoid overtraining: