Blog Feed: Georgette's Jiu Jitsu World

The eyepoke problem in MMA...

Published on 2013-05-10 12:42:00

Check Keebler's thoughts (from Gracie Humaita Cleveland) on the right way to solve the eyepoke problem:

Watch this Wednesday-- from the Dallas Open last weekend

Published on 2013-05-08 15:28:00

Mitch and I worked the IBJJF Dallas Open last weekend and as usual enjoyed it very much.Check out this match between Fabiana Borges (GB) and Mackenzie Dern (GH).

What's new in the Lloyd Irvin rape prevention SEO games?

Published on 2013-05-08 15:26:00

Sorry I've been out of pocket a while... have a major work project that culminates next Wednesday at 6pm (we hope) and after that I'll be able to breathe a little more easily.As far as I can tell you, here's what's new:

Super easy start to a cocktail party or dinner..

Published on 2013-05-03 13:52:00

Hope you have a great weekend planned!!! I'll be in Dallas visiting family and working the IBJJF Dallas Open and then enjoying Cinco de Mayo dinner out with friends...Try this super easy little appetizer.

Joe Rogan puts Lloyd Irvin on blast on his podcast

Published on 2013-05-01 07:39:00

Watch around 1:18 or so:Of course he won't even say Lloyd Irvin's name... giant pussy Joe Rogan!

Gladiator Games, May 4th, Louisiana!

Published on 2013-04-29 13:00:00

The May 4th Gladiators Games will be held at the Comeaux Recreation

Where have I been?

Published on 2013-04-29 10:59:00

Sorry for the silence... I was working from home and being occupied with various projects, etc.

Watch this Wednesday-- Defeating the Sprawl

Published on 2013-04-24 07:52:00

More goodness from 2013 Pan Champion Darren aka Keebler of Gracie Humaita Cleveland:

Bizarre, gluten-free pizza really is good...

Published on 2013-04-17 20:10:00

Don't laugh, it's a cauliflower crust.

Lloyd Irvin Exposed joins the ranks..

Published on 2013-04-15 09:23:00

http://lloydirvinexposed.blogspot.com/

Taking action against Lloyd Irvin and Emory Marketing on MMA Millionaires or Mastermind fraud claims.

Published on 2013-04-11 14:57:00

From a friend who will remain anonymous:"First of all, I think it’s important to note that there’s a whole lot of misinformation out there regarding what happened during MMA Millionaires seminars, private meetings, and phone calls. Some of it is

More Lloyd Irvin Maryland BJJ system-gaming...

Published on 2013-04-11 10:46:00

I see that Lloyd is promoting the URL "maryland-bjj" (instead of lloydirvin.com) on google ads and on facebook ads.Thanks to some friends who remain anonymous, here's another listing of sites Lloyd Irvin has:http://bjjmadeeasy.*com/http://blueprintpa

Lloyd Irvin rape prevention programs have nothing on his SEO gaming programs....

Published on 2013-04-10 11:03:00

Lloyd Irvin has successfully been gaming the SEO (search engine optimization) system on google for a long time now.We all know about his flagrant purchase of

To anonymous....

Published on 2013-04-09 16:01:00

To the charming, hardly literate buffoon who couldn't muster the sack to sign their own name to their comments:Yes, I deleted your comments without publishing them.

What do you think about overly-worn belts?

Published on 2013-04-09 12:39:00

My belt is looking really, really worn.

Why-didn't-I-think-of-that armbar escape into reciprocal armbar.

Published on 2013-04-08 13:06:00

1.

To the owner of LloydIrvinRapeTruth...

Published on 2013-04-07 22:50:00

If the owner of www.LloydIrvinRapeTruth.com is reading this, please email me at georgettejitsu at gmail.

Tearing my hair out.

Published on 2013-04-07 00:10:00

The title refers not to frustration over my grappling, for once, but to the extraordinary amount of hair I lose every time I spar.

Weekend funny--

Published on 2013-04-05 13:55:00

Fight back against Lloyd Irvin's latest SEO (search engine optimization) manipulation

Published on 2013-04-03 15:18:00

Lloyd Irvin recently posted an article that purported to discuss self-defense trends among women, but which really just attempts to boost his SEO profile away from his own revealing patterns and in favor of him continuing to run a business in the mar

Actually, NINETEEN counts.

Published on 2013-04-03 11:10:00

Although the court's website shows eleven felony counts, the indictment actually contains nineteen separate counts– mostly sex offenses, both as principal and as an aider and abettor – but also on kidnapping, robbery and attempted aggravated assa

Schultz and Maldonado indicted today on 11 counts in Superior Court...

Published on 2013-04-02 20:26:00

Today in D.C. Superior Court, eleven counts of kidnapping, first degree sexual abuse with aggravating circumstances, second degree sexual abuse with aggravating circumstances, attempted aggravated assault and robbery were filed against Nick Schultz a

Grip fighting and not overextending.

Published on 2013-04-02 10:15:00

These seem to be my two big battles of late.

Bernardo Faria v. DJ Jackson, Pan 2013

Published on 2013-03-29 11:08:00

Caramelized-Onion and Bacon Risotto

Published on 2013-03-29 10:46:00

This risotto is adapted from a recipe in Open House Cookbook, by Rachel Bay.

Help rebuild academy devastated by fire!

Published on 2013-03-28 11:08:00

Sasser Jiu-Jitsu and Fitness in Oklahoma will be hosting a seminar to benefit the reopening of Pesadelo Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, an Alliance affiliate in Dallas TX which was shut down due to a fire in February.

Watch this Wednesday- Miyao v. Grippo, Pan 2013

Published on 2013-03-27 09:51:00

Just got back last night from the Pan.

A "submissionary" trip bringing jiu jitsu to Ethiopia in May 2013

Published on 2013-03-27 09:39:00

Check out this new project from Sean Coleman connecting students in Atlanta, GA & Jackson, MS with students in Ethiopia through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.They will be embarking on a ‘submissionary’ trip to Ethiopia in May 2013 to introduce the Gentle A

Something's rotten in Camp Springs, Denmark...

Published on 2013-03-21 09:40:00

Title: STATE V JACKSON, DEALONZIOCase: 03841 FECR012155 (SIOUX) (When he was at Northwestern College in Iowa.)https://www.iowacourts.state.ia.us/ESAWebApp/TIndexFrm Here's the statute:http://coolice.legis.iowa.gov/Cool-ICE/default.asp?category=billin

A good instructional for the basics: the B12.

Published on 2013-03-20 11:59:00

Brian Johnson is a Machado blackbelt in Seattle (under David Meyer and John Will) training at the Northwest Jiu Jitsu Academy.

Headed to the Pans...

Published on 2013-03-19 13:16:00

Please don't think nothing is going on with the whole "rape culture-Lloyd Irvin-Keith Owen" confluence of events... I'm just in the midst of having finished two work deadlines and starting a third, due next week, plus training, plus getting ready to

Belated "Watch This Wednesday"

Published on 2013-03-14 13:16:00

Sorry, was scrambling to finish something for work yesterday.

Paleo, gluten-free Sausage and White Bean Stew

Published on 2013-03-10 12:39:00

1-1/2 Tbsp. unsalted butter2 Tbs. coarsely chopped fresh thyme leaves (or 1 Tbsp. dried thyme, or to taste)9 sweet Italian sausages2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil1 medium onion, cut into medium dice3 cloves garlic, minced1-1/2 cups dry white wine, like

Where does Lloyd's money come from?

Published on 2013-03-09 18:48:00

I got an interesting email from a friend and I think it speaks volumes:"Lloyd has a huge following outside the jiu jitsu community, and they have no idea who he REALLY is.

Marcos and David Avellan market soft core "jiu jitsu instruction"

Published on 2013-03-09 00:48:00

Pretty much the Avellan brothers' entire Kimura Trap system is laid out in softcore porn fashion. I figure that there are some people who might like to know what he and Marcos Avellan (the marketing "brains" of the partnership) really think about

Pans is right around the corner!

Published on 2013-03-08 09:41:00

So this weekend is the Chicago Open-- good luck to all you cats. And then March 20-24 is the Pans in Irvine-- good luck to all YOU cats, too. Won't be going this year, to work or compete.

Am I still training? yes of course!

Published on 2013-03-07 13:54:00

With all the insanity in the BJJ world right now, between Lloyd Irvin and Keith Owen, I sometimes despair...But I put it all aside every evening when I get to class.

Watch This Wednesday: Grippo v. Cornelius

Published on 2013-03-06 12:47:00

I know this is up everywhere-- but if you haven't watched the match between Gianni Grippo and Keenan Cornelius at the Boston Open yet, this is a gotta-see.

The revelations on MMA Underground and elsewhere....

Published on 2013-03-06 12:30:00

In case you missed them.... revelations from a former Mastermind member.Read Fuzzy Badfeet's posts here

New patch coming soon...

Published on 2013-03-04 15:26:00

Here's the proof.

Eating crow with Luca Atalla

Published on 2013-03-01 19:23:00

Ryan Hall 3:50pmRyan HallHello Luca,How are you?I am wondering if you would be willing to post a letter that I wrote on GracieMag? I have a lot of experience with what has been going on in the BJJ community lately and I hope that my letter can sha

Sex scandal rocks Team Lloyd Irvin

Published on 2013-03-01 01:06:00

Jiu jitsu fighters flee into the night, apparently.This was posted on my facebook wall in the wee hours by a "Johnny Justice."

Race and jiu jitsu, part one.

Published on 2013-02-28 11:50:00

Just some food for thought on the last day of Black History Month... I will be following up on this in the future!

Wednesday is Watch This Day

Published on 2013-02-27 15:53:00

My friend and sometimes-instructor Darren Branch (aka Keebler, like the elf) is a Gracie Humaita brownbelt under Donald Park and Royler Gracie.

Thinking about keeping women in jiu jitsu...

Published on 2013-02-25 13:52:00

Val Worthington wrote a really uplifting yet realistic and challenging article about focusing on positive ways to integrate men and women in grappling.

Ryan Hall's interview with the Martial Arts Podcast

Published on 2013-02-25 13:45:00

Ryan's interview on the podcast at Hiyaa can be heard here....

Slow-cooker braised apricot chicken and carrots

Published on 2013-02-24 11:48:00

For my friends Bobby and Amanda, who are cooking without the use of an oven....This flavorful stew is delicious served over couscous, quinoa,

Lloyd Irvin's codefendant was not acquitted!!

Published on 2013-02-22 11:46:00

Lately, some folks have been running around like chickens with heads cut off, pointing to an appellate opinion in Virginia and claiming it means Lloyd Irvin is innocent.

Can Keith Owens really handle women in jiu jitsu?

Published on 2013-02-20 14:06:00

Fortunately, my computer had some issues the past few days, and I was in Houston all weekend at the IBJJF Houston Open.

Nakapan Phungeporn comes forward with more info about Lloyd Irvin's ways...

Published on 2013-02-20 08:07:00

Nakapan Phungeporn, blackbelt and co-owner (with his wife Melanie) of BETA Academy in Washington DC, severed his connections with Lloyd Irvin in January 2013.

Premium Ouano Gi Preorder info...

Published on 2013-02-20 07:56:00

OUANO NEW LIMITED EDITION PREMIUM GI ORDER ANNOUNCEMENT-- brought to you directly from John Ouano of New Breed Jiu Jitsu himself: "THIS OFFER IS AVAILABLE UNTIL FROM FEBRUARY 13TH TO THE 24TH ONLY!!!!!!!DON'T BE THE TYPICAL LAZY JIU-JITSU PRACTITIONE

Home away from home...

Published on 2013-02-09 09:57:00

I like that when I come to Vegas, I have a home away from home.

Training in Las Vegas again...

Published on 2013-02-07 10:14:00

I'm very proud that I made it through our Tuesday "Training" which is usually the hardest one of the week... I didn't stop, I didn't quit.

Moldova's first-ever BJJ tournament a huge success....

Published on 2013-02-04 16:31:00

Thanks to everyone, including Christian Graugart and BJJ Revolution in Richmond VA, who helped by donating or providing a gi, patches, and/or money for prizes used in the first-ever BJJ tournament in Moldova!

Thoughts on returning from a layoff...

Published on 2013-02-04 13:14:00

I was off the mats, more or less, for about a year.

Wretched timing to be sick.

Published on 2013-01-31 15:09:00

Well, after a wonderful week of nearly-daily training (crossfit and jiu jitsu) I seem to have fallen prey to another cold.

Did the legal system fail by acquitting Lloyd of rape?

Published on 2013-01-29 18:26:00

In commenting on my Luca post, Anonymous (in part) asked the following:"Can you explain how and why the legal system failed in this case, would it still fail under today's system?"I thought this was a really good question.

I'm on Bullshido's podcast!

Published on 2013-01-27 17:58:00

I spoke today briefly about the Lloyd Irvin rape case... the whole podcast episode is about these issues!http://www.blogtalkradio.com/bullshido/2013/01/27/bullshidonet-clustercast-now-with-extra-proteinIt's on live now... not sure if this link will p

An easy way to do something positive about this rape thing...

Published on 2013-01-26 08:47:00

Meerkatsu, Tatami, and BJJ HQ have teamed up to produce a REALLY cool t-shirt-- the design is secret for now but I will give you a hint, it has a strong woman and a wicked submission-- and all proceeds will go to rape crisis and prevention.

First appearance in NYE rape case, this morning.

Published on 2013-01-24 14:36:00

Luca Atalla speaks for GracieMag about Lloyd Irvin

Published on 2013-01-24 11:31:00

If you haven't read Luca Atalla's post about Lloyd Irvin, it can be found here, but I'll comment below.

a few more tidbits...

Published on 2013-01-23 15:57:00

I thought Madgrappler's comments worthy of repeating/reposting...

An open letter to Lloyd and Luca.

Published on 2013-01-23 11:58:00

Dear Lloyd and Luca,Lloyd's apologia begins as follows, and my responses in red:"I first want to apologize.I want to apologizeto my mother,to my father,to my wifeandto my son for my silence.The public taunting & harassing phone calls you have receive

Lloyd Irvin breaks his silence...

Published on 2013-01-22 15:47:00

His open letter to the world, found here.Let me say, I have some comments to make about replies to my last few posts.

Rapes by teammates unfortunately more common than you think....

Published on 2013-01-20 23:13:00

I am very sorry to say, a number of women have shared stories with me about how they were raped by their BJJ training partners.

Banning? stripping titles? and future background checks?

Published on 2013-01-20 00:31:00

What do you think would be appropriate?Requiring a criminal history and background check before a blackbelt is given?

One of Lloyd Irvin's defenders on Sherdog--

Published on 2013-01-19 23:48:00

While wading through 70+ pages on a TLI rape thread... I was repeatedly annoyed by posts attacking the victim made by EpicBeardMan (by now he's been banned) who seemed to be a troll.

10 tips to prevent rape...

Published on 2013-01-19 23:33:00

One of the few truly useful things I've seen on Sherdog:

Followup to recent comments...

Published on 2013-01-18 15:40:00

Wow, some great comments both here and on facebook regarding these issues.

It's not rape culture... or is it?

Published on 2013-01-17 15:33:00

The big thing lately has been the whole Team Lloyd Irvin rape catastrophe.

I trained.

Published on 2013-01-17 10:34:00

It was cold.

I'm a lazy ass.

Published on 2013-01-16 15:22:00

Well, I meant to get on the mats Monday night, but failed.

Dinner tonight... salmon.

Published on 2013-01-15 12:11:00

From FineCooking.com...This delightfully different champagne-pink sauce has a tangy, sweet, and spicy balance that pairs perfectly with the rich salmon.

Friday's open mat

Published on 2013-01-14 11:22:00

I am back on the mats!I was hemming and hawing about whether I was sufficiently over my cold to train again, when I connected with Kyle, a buddy of Chris's.

Two BJJ guys caught raping woman on video...

Published on 2013-01-09 17:01:00

I know, more than anyone, that you're innocent until proven guilty... but my husband just brought this awful story to my attention.Apparently two Lloyd Irvin guys in DC raped a woman in a parking garage on New Years... and were caught on surveillance

Too much rain.

Published on 2013-01-09 09:02:00

Actually, since we never get rain and have had a drought for two years, the title's not quite accurate... but last night there was just too much rain for me to even go watch class.

When to start training again after being sick.

Published on 2013-01-08 08:48:00

I really appreciate the kind words of support and encouragement, folks.

Preparing to restart jits after a long layoff...

Published on 2012-12-30 20:13:00

Wow... I've been away from the mats for a few months, thanks to IVF.

Charity jiu jitsu seminar benefiting the victims of Sandy Hook

Published on 2012-12-26 22:29:00

Check out

On the East Coast...

Published on 2012-12-20 17:57:00

Sorry for not posting in forever... got busy with work deadlines and our Christmas party (a streamlined, smaller version this year with way less food and no gift exchange... and it was a success, so perhaps people really are satisfied as long as I ma

Cathy "The Bitch" Brown

Published on 2012-12-13 14:45:00

LondonReal TV interviewed Cathy Brown, the first female boxer to be crowned British Champion (previously ranked #3 in the world in the flyweight category before she retired in 2007), and here's a little highlight.Her hands are deadly weapons!

Holiday centerpiece...

Published on 2012-12-06 08:51:00

I don't think I'll do this on my dining room table... but if I could find a smaller branch, and put it on the "bar" that separates my kitchen from my living room and breakfast area, it would be great... found this in today's WaPo article on making th

Mmm, shepherd's pie and sauteed zucchini

Published on 2012-12-06 08:37:00

This is not a traditional shepherd's pie, as I make it with ground beef instead of lamb... but I think it's awesome... it's a great way to use leftover mashed potatoes or it takes hardly any time at all to make some specifically for this dish.

Cooking without an oven...

Published on 2012-12-05 09:19:00

I am happy to take special requests for cooking info!

The jiu jitsu community is the bomb :)

Published on 2012-12-04 09:43:00

First, welcome back from Thanksgiving, did you get fat?

Slideyfoot is coming to visit!

Published on 2012-11-15 09:20:00

I'm pretty excited-- Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and we'll be hosting Slideyfoot for a week!

OH GLORIOUS DAY!!!

Published on 2012-11-07 14:00:00

THANK YOU AMERICA!

Review: the Submission Fight Co "Mini Gi Hanger"

Published on 2012-11-02 16:22:00

There are a lot of nifty things you can do with the mini gi hanger from Submission Fight Co.

Marcelinho and Gabi

Published on 2012-11-01 12:13:00

I just caught this over on DSTRYR-SG's blog... had to repost!

Chewy oatmeal cookies.

Published on 2012-10-31 10:37:00

Yeah, I know they're not gluten free.

Guest post from Brian McLaughlin-- Metamoris commentary

Published on 2012-10-30 15:50:00

Hope you enjoy this guest post by Brian McLaughlin, a BJJ black belt, boxer, and mixed martial artist who runs Precision MMA in the Hudson Valley area of New York."Metamoris was the first submission-only BJJ tournament featuring the top grapplers from today. The event has a lot of people talking about the different philosophies surrounding Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and where the sport is headed, in part because of how it highlighted the different paradigms and approaches that BJJ artists take when al [..]

5 tips for better performance

Published on 2012-10-24 11:41:00

Just read this in a Livestrong email and thought it had plenty of application to jiu jitsu.

Exclusive interviews with Roger Gracie!

Published on 2012-10-19 12:44:00

Check out London Real's exclusive full one-hour interview (and a 3 minute trailer) with BJJ champion Roger Gracie-- Here's the trailer: The hour-long one:

Cranberry Pecan Muffins

Published on 2012-10-19 10:01:00

I'm gluten-free again (going back to NY end of November for another round of egg retrieval!)

The ABCs...

Published on 2012-10-17 12:12:00

It's been a while since my last political post.

Comfort food tonight.

Published on 2012-10-16 08:57:00

Sauteed Chicken Cutlets with Sherry-Olive Pan SauceServes 4-- 320 calories/serving8 boneless, skinless, thin-cut (1/4- to 1/2-inch-thick) chicken breast cutlets (1-1/2 to 1-3/4 lb.)Salt and freshly ground pepper4 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil; more as needed1 small yellow onion, finely chopped1 medium clove garlic, minced1/2 cup sherry, preferably medium dry, such as amontillado1/2 cup lower-salt chicken broth1/2 cup green olives, pitted and slivered3 Tbs. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley1/4 cup sl [..]

what's new?

Published on 2012-10-15 09:43:00

Well, I trained one day last week, on Monday, and it was AWESOME being back!

IVF update...

Published on 2012-10-02 21:07:00

Good news from NYC... Dr. Braverman is wonderful :)

Who's responsibility is it?

Published on 2012-09-25 12:47:00

Hi all!

Common BJJ beginner questions...

Published on 2012-09-18 12:10:00

I received this email from a new BJJ practitioner and thought I would share with you her (anonymous) questions and my answers, for whatever they're worth!Hello,I recently discovered your blog and I was wondering if I could ask you a question. I started BJJ this spring, and since then I've learned a lot, but sometimes it feels like too much. I feel like my instructor just taught me a bunch of moves for a variety of situations but I just can't remember them all-- or if I'm put into a position, [..]

How to deal with an inappropriate woman in your academy.

Published on 2012-09-17 10:54:00

This topic came up in a discussion recently, and one of the participants offered to write a guest post here on the subject.

Congrats Allie the PURPLE, not CLEAR, belt...

Published on 2012-09-13 17:26:00

Allie the Clear Belt is now a purple belt-- well-deserved!

Christy Thomas, first female blackbelt under Relson Gracie

Published on 2012-09-13 17:08:00

Ooh!

Leticia Ribeiro in Florida this month!

Published on 2012-09-07 12:04:00

Hey-- Leticia Ribeiro is running a seminar in Delray Beach FL September 29-30.

Jiu Jitsu Style magazine-- free app! free issue!

Published on 2012-09-05 14:19:00

Jiu Jitsu Style is Europe’s first bi-monthly magazine dedicated solely to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Mango sorbet

Published on 2012-09-04 10:34:00

A cold dessert is the perfect antidote to the late-summer heat. Mangoes can satisfy your sweet tooth while packing in fiber and important nutrients such as vitamins A and C, which together boost immunity, improve heart health and reduce your risk for many chronic diseases. And switching from ice cream to sorbet is a great way to reduce saturated fat and cholesterol.

Farmhouse delivery

Published on 2012-08-29 11:22:00

Just signed up for twice-a-month delivery of fresh organic produce from local farms through Farmhouse Delivery.

IVF #2

Published on 2012-08-28 12:49:00

I haven't been training for the last week mainly due to work busy-ness and self lazy-ness, but also because this whole IVF thing is supposedly our last shot, and with my auto-immune inflammation issues, I'm happy to do whatever I can to minimize inflammation, including work out less (read: not at all.)I've been swallowing handfuls of horse-sized pills every morning... fish oil, vitamins, antioxidants, anti-inflammatories like turmeric and supplements for egg quality like CoQ10.

Rickson Gracie

Published on 2012-08-23 17:47:00

This message is for my old buddy recently returned from a long time away-- sometimes they don't let you pick names like Rickson Gracie!

Diet, fatigue, IVF and Ronda.

Published on 2012-08-20 17:36:00

Well, we're on schedule to go to NY for our second IVF towards the end of September.

Training report.

Published on 2012-08-15 14:33:00

You may recall we've been learning from our new blackbelt this week and the last two, while our usual instructor Donald travels for work.

Guilt-free, fat-free homemade potato chips

Published on 2012-08-14 14:59:00

One of the best birthday gifts ever?

Greatest spoof video of BJJ instructional of all time.

Published on 2012-08-14 12:17:00

If you only have a few moments to devote to yourself today-- please, put those few moments in right now in watching this video.

Disdain for the working class....

Published on 2012-08-14 11:03:00

Reposted from the Washington Post-- by Eugene Robinson "Mitt Romney’s selection of Paul Ryan as his running mate underscores the central question posed by this campaign: Should cold selfishness become the template for our society, or do we still believe in community?Romney wanted the election to be seen as a referendum on the success or failure of President Obama’s economic policies. Instead, he has revealed that the campaign is really a choice between two starkly different philosophie [..]

WTF-- Paul Ryan?!

Published on 2012-08-13 12:04:00

Paul Ryan sucks.

Working on perspective

Published on 2012-08-09 16:02:00

I've managed to (mostly) maintain the zen serenity of rolling without trying to "win," as well as the pursuit of "attribute-free" jiu jitsu, both inspired in me by Henry Akins.

Q&A with Henry Akins

Published on 2012-08-07 14:55:00

Jiu Jitsu Forums has an active Q&A with demigod Henry Akins... here's a bit:-What are some of your most memorable moments on the mat(good or bad)? One of the most profound experiences I had was 2 months into training at the academy there was a guy that would come in the mornings and watch class, he would go off to the side and start doing kung-fu forms and movements and kind of laugh or giggle as the instructor was teaching techniques. One morning he came in and was throwing flying stars [..]

Andrew Brown at the Daily Telegraph is a SEXIST WANKER

Published on 2012-08-06 16:11:00

Andrew Brown, a sensible little chap over at the Daily Telegraph, was having a jolly good time watching the birds on the telly do their precious little Olympic lady-like things, when he came across a phenomenon so unnatural, so depraved, that he upset his tea across the bedsit carpet in horror.It was women... fighting. Like the lads do!

Training jiu jitsu with a sunburn....

Published on 2012-08-06 11:01:00

Saturday morning it was pleasantly warm out (around 78 degrees) and jiu jitsu was cancelled because of a special event held by the gym with whom we share space.

Uchi gari.

Published on 2012-08-03 16:46:00

Our new judo of the week-- the uchi gari.

Rickson's blue belt requirements

Published on 2012-07-30 15:53:00

Magic homemade ice cream without an ice cream maker!

Published on 2012-07-27 11:09:00

Makes 1 quart ice cream 8 ounces strawberries, hulled (1 1/2 cups)1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk1 ounce white chocolate chips1 tablespoon vodka1/2 teaspoon vanilla extractpinch of salt1 1/4 cups heavy cream, chilledYou can use 6 ounces of thawed, frozen berries in place of fresh ones and bar white chocolate in place of the chips—chop it finely before melting it. If you plan to store the ice cream for more than a few days, place plastic wrap directly on its surface.1. Pr [..]

Squee of the day

Published on 2012-07-26 16:46:00

Can't help it-- ran across this picture randomly and it inspired a new feature.

Stay hydrated!

Published on 2012-07-26 13:09:00

We have a new blackbelt at our academy.

Maybe if we just relax? Are you effing kidding me???

Published on 2012-07-24 15:12:00

I can't tell you how many times someone has told me "Just relax, you'll get pregnant."

Chicago area womens' open mat August 5

Published on 2012-07-24 12:36:00

There will be a women's open mat at my friend's gym on August 5. Please help spread the word! https://www.facebook.com/events/322072484553457/ Copa Jiu-Jitsu—Carlson Gracie Team will be hosting a women's only open mat for female grapplers and women interested in learning about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. This event is open to the public and is FREE to all women who would like to participate. We have plenty of mat space available and female grapplers and interested women are welcome to come dri [..]

Blog fixing needed- can you help? Oh, and judo awesomeness.

Published on 2012-07-23 13:58:00

I'm not an HTML person.

Blogger is screwed up...

Published on 2012-07-16 14:21:00

I can't see squat on my blog... at least not properly.

Healthy summer eating...

Published on 2012-07-12 10:18:00

More foodies for you!

Going really fast and not crashing.

Published on 2012-07-09 13:59:00

I'm something of an adrenaline junkie.

What makes Henry Akins' seminars and privates the best I've ever taken.

Published on 2012-07-07 18:27:00

Last Saturday was

Rashguard review-- the Honey Badger by Meerkatsu/Tatami

Published on 2012-06-28 14:54:00

Tatami is releasing the 2012 version of Meerkatsu's Honey Badger rashie at the end of July, and it can be reserved here at the Tatami site, or here at Budovideos.

Pan-seared tuna with quinoa salad

Published on 2012-06-27 14:41:00

If, like me, you're dairy-free, you can skip the feta cheese in this dish-- it's mostly a garnish, and the tomato/olive mixture is still pretty tasty.

Street vs. sport.

Published on 2012-06-26 13:38:00

So, while I haven't been training much "pure" jiu jitsu this month at all, I have been dropping in on some judo classes and some kajukenbo classes, both run by old friends.

A beautiful thought, a call to action...

Published on 2012-06-18 15:19:00

My instructor's blog post on Saturday was inspiring and, yes, felt a little bit like a horoscope entry-- you wonder whether it was written for you because it feels incredibly specific and topical and appropriate.Lately I've been pondering my lack of motivation to go train.

Gluten free!? dairy free?!

Published on 2012-06-18 14:47:00

On Friday my husband and I had a conversation with my Reproductive Immunologist.[Side note:

Come get your Rickson fix here!

Published on 2012-06-15 15:32:00

HENRY AKINS SEMINAR in Austin

How to be a great mediocre BJJ student...

Published on 2012-06-12 18:45:00

Wow.

Braised balsamic chicken and squash for dinner...

Published on 2012-06-12 17:35:00

Is your garden (or farmers' market) bursting with tomatoes and summer squash?

Gi Review: the Submission Fight Co. Light gi

Published on 2012-06-12 12:21:00

The short version: Not light enough to be considered a "light" gi, but well-made and VERY

Low-carb lasagna

Published on 2012-06-06 11:54:00

Lately I'm craving pasta and tortillas.

Jean-Jacques Machado

Published on 2012-06-06 10:38:00

Back from a work trip....

Published on 2012-06-06 10:29:00

Leg lock defense with Alan Belcher

Published on 2012-05-24 10:52:00

I admit, I screamed like a little girl several times during Belcher's recent fight against Rousimar Palhares.

Check out the Jiu Jitsu Laboratory!

Published on 2012-05-23 15:36:00

Prowling through friends' blogrolls is a bad thing to do when one has a lot of work to get done but isn't particularly motivated to do it.Found this cool site, the Jiu Jitsu Laboratory.... written by David, a purple belt in Vancouver.

Eat more fish!

Published on 2012-05-23 11:55:00

I have a bag in the freezer of individually-frozen tilapia fillets and I've been eating lots of fish lately.

Help preserve the grandmasters' legacy!

Published on 2012-05-22 11:51:00

Shamelessly pinched, with a few alterations, from Meerkatsu:A Red Belt (9th degree black belt and above) is the highest rank attainable by a BJJ instructor. There aren't many of these grandmasters around but they are there, somewhere, mostly in Brazil, a few in America. They have stories to tell, they know a lot about the sport and they've probably seen it all already.Film maker Hywel Teague, owner of the popular video site BJJ Hacks, will be making a documentary about these extraordinary me [..]

Train not for competition. Train for life.

Published on 2012-05-21 10:26:00

A family friend of my husband's spent the weekend at our house.

Training while visiting Las Vegas....

Published on 2012-05-18 11:54:00

When I tell people I'm going to Vegas, they always get this knowing half-grin on their faces.

Raptora vs. Predadora

Published on 2012-05-17 11:43:00

My two favorite made-for-ladies gis are the Raptora and the Predadora, both by Predator BJJ (a division of Black Eagle.)

I'm in Vegas!

Published on 2012-05-08 11:23:00

Yep, trained briefly on Sunday afternoon with our super-feather, she knocked out 30 minutes of straight sweep drills before I had to hit the road.

Rough night of training.

Published on 2012-05-04 11:20:00

As I've mentioned, Gracie Humaita Austin separates classes (technique and drilling) from training (hard, directed sparring) from open mat (whatever you want to do.)

The back mount, by Rener and Matt.

Published on 2012-05-03 16:35:00

Last October I was able to attend Rener Gracie's backmount seminar at my old academy.

If no one sees it...

Published on 2012-05-02 11:13:00

So my title refers to a magical moment during training last night.

Oh, I'm sore..

Published on 2012-05-01 10:12:00

A little seoi nage, a little Boys, for your Tuesday morning... A new month at Gracie Humaita Austin and looks like May will be all seoi nage and standing guard passes, all the time.As Donald puts it-- you don't want it to be like Sexual Panther, where 20% of the time it works all the time.

Fish tacos for the fourth....

Published on 2012-04-30 14:32:00

Before I get into my recipe babble... check out this guy Matt's mindmaps of instructionals... Seems cool!

Coming back from hiatus...

Published on 2012-04-30 10:36:00

So, the trial in Houston went well, except that (due to unforeseen circumstances) the judge had to adjourn us early, so we will go back at the end of May to finish presenting the evidence.

Thai spicy shrimp

Published on 2012-04-12 09:16:00

I feel like cooking, and the weather is so nice, it would be a good time to grill on the patio.

For your hump day pleasure...

Published on 2012-04-11 09:42:00

Please observe and enjoy... Henri.

Roll Adapt Win-- we should all be so lucky....

Published on 2012-04-09 20:09:00

A buddy of mine has gone through this incredible endeavor of starting his own clothing company to meet the needs of the jiu jitsu community.

Crispy crunchy healthy

Published on 2012-04-06 13:02:00

Well, I didn't make it to train last night.

That Royler pass...

Published on 2012-04-05 11:42:00

There's a pass one of my teammates has been killing us with lately. I had to ask Donald (our instructor) what it was when I saw it, and last night it was actually part of our curriculum. In short, it's a spinning pass-- you get grips on your opponent's opposite corners, and then you get out of the way while you turn them, like turning a big truck steering wheel.It's pretty sweet, though I feel like my short little arms have trouble with certain variations of the grips especially if they're in [..]

Royler's seminar and Easter dinner, coming this weekend to a me, near me!

Published on 2012-04-04 12:31:00

This Saturday is the Royler seminar at our academy, hooray! and then boo, I have to do my taxes that evening.I know we're supposed to come up with questions for Royler.

How to pass the inverted guard.

Published on 2012-04-03 14:56:00

2012 IBJJF Houston Open, Andre Galvao (Atos) v. Jim Harbison (Lloyd Irvin).Clinic on passing inverted guard starts around 6:30.And random for fun, not necessarily "how to" do anything specific: Gui Mendes (also Atos) v. Pablo Silva (Barra), same tournament.

Tiring training!

Published on 2012-04-02 15:22:00

So, I finally (but inadvertently) did one of our "training" classes...See, at the new academy, there's class, and then there's training, and then there's open mat. Class is pretty standard-- 1.5 hrs long, including a warmup, some drills, self defense and sport technique and lots of drilling, and maybe some positional sparring. Usually there's a separately-scheduled optional open mat after the 1.5 hrs. But training, I'd been told, is more like 60-90 minutes of full-on non-stop sparring. No di [..]

The Voice of Choice (politics, abortion, not BJJ)

Published on 2012-03-30 17:04:00

Payback Is a Bitch for Abortion Clinic Protestors, Thanks to a Brilliant Landlordreposted from Jezebel, by Cassie Murdoch, March 30, 2012.Todd Stave has the unenviable position of being the landlord of a building in Germantown, Maryland, which he leases to an abortion provider called Reproductive Health Services Clinic. So he knows a little something about dealing patiently with anti-abortion protesters. But when they started calling him at home at all hours and harassing his family, he got fed [..]

The Brazilian Legs Drill

Published on 2012-03-29 11:59:00

Relearned it in class Monday night, and been putting it into use ever since... :) Donald suggested we watch the Zak v Kron match to see it in action-- but maybe I have the wrong Zak v. Kron or maybe I'm distracted with work, because I'm not seeing it here! Tell me if I'm wrong!Shoutout to teammate Travis Orr, competing at his first Pan as a brownbelt this weekend. Are you watching it on BudoVideos? I am curious how it will work as I've heard they'll be streaming all the matches, all the time [..]

Check out the Science of Skill!

Published on 2012-03-26 10:02:00

I was recently interviewed as a "top BJJ nerd" by Dan over at ScienceofSkill and I have to say, it's a mesmerizing blog. Mesmerizing because he links to so much cool stuff, and subdivides his content nicely too. There's a section on MicroBJJ for the little guy (and of course, sections about Robson Moura and the Mendes Brothers) as well as performance psychology, skill acquisition, fight strategy... I really dig it :) So I've added Dan's blog to my blogroll (and to my list of reasons the workd [..]

Spring cleaning cookies.

Published on 2012-03-21 12:45:00

Ingredients 1 cup butter, softened 1 cup white sugar 1 cup light brown sugar 2 eggs 2 tablespoons evaporated milk (or regular milk) 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (or maple flavor is good too) 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 cups rolled oats 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips 1 cup flaked coconut 1 cup chopped pecansDirections Preheat the oven to 375. Line cookie sheets with parchment pap [..]

Stupid criminal!

Published on 2012-03-20 16:37:00

Prosecutor friend in another state just emailed me:I was told when I started at this job that by the time we catch a rapist in [my state], it was estimated he had raped six times... Curiously, I just handled a case where the rapist (who was walked in on by a roommate in mid-act and fled) was recognized by that roommate a couple of months later when the rapist walked into her rape counseling center in [large urban city] to volunteer as a counselor. They gave him a bottle of water at the rape cri [..]

Exhilarating weekend!

Published on 2012-03-19 12:47:00

I had a great weekend :)I got to train twice-- a good review class on Saturday, covering high guard armbars when they stand up in your guard, or omoplatas and the omoplata sweep as an option. I had a really fun training partner who was encouraging and didn't make me feel stupid, which was awesome. Because my omoplata sweep? It looks more like I'm having an epileptic fit on the edge of a cliff and my partner has to pull me back from the brink of death.And then afterwards, we did some king of t [..]

A new perspective on competition in jiu jitsu.

Published on 2012-03-15 15:17:00

I want to share with you an amazing and insightful conversation I had this morning with one of my mentors in jiu jitsu and life... but first, another boost for Seana, the purple belt who is battling ovarian cancer at the retardedly early age of 26. And then, the new perspective on jiu jitsu competition, at the bottom. :)Watch this interview with Seana last week at Toronto BJJ where Seana talks about her history in martial arts, where she grew up, her cancer and how she is staying so positive an [..]

Seana-- purple belt, age 26-- cancer fighter. Help!

Published on 2012-03-06 17:57:00

Seana is a purple belt under Jorge Britto at Toronto BJJ. She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at 26. She needs help.More information at: www.facebook.com/HelpSeanasFightAgainstCancer I donated through PayPal. You can too. Also, please do what you can to spread the word.

Tate v. Rousey

Published on 2012-03-05 12:23:00

If you didn't watch Strikeforce on Saturday night, surely by now you've seen the stills, the youtube, and the Gracie Breakdown....In case no, here's the full fight. Here's the Gracie Breakdown (as they note: viewer discretion is advised.)I was THRILLED to death that Ronda won. I didn't like the attitudes displayed by either woman leading up to the fight. I won't use the term "lady" for a reason. I didn't like their behavior during the weighins either. However, I have utmost respect for Rond [..]

Reader question about subscribing....

Published on 2012-03-01 14:19:00

I'm so illiterate when it comes to this stuff. Can anyone help? This reader sent me the following question and I don't have a clue!"I just came accross your blog and love it!!! Is there a way I can subscribe to it so I get your posts in my email?"Thanks!

After cauli ear, that ain't no thang.

Published on 2012-03-01 12:57:00

Working on a "real job" project that's actually fun, and complex, and seemingly infinite; it's like a fractal. Every time I think I have resolved an argument, I see that I could go one level deeper. And every time I think I have the big picture, I step back and see that I was only working on a fraction of the whole. The downside is, I rarely want to get up from my desk and hit the gym during my lunch break. Hopefully this project wraps up in another two weeks or so.Haven't been training much [..]

Teensy treat just for you...

Published on 2012-02-26 19:31:00

A treat to watch-- from the Abu Dhabi World Pro in 2011, Paulo Miyao v. Pedro Torres, purple belt -65kg finals.And a treat to eat: 3, 2, 1 CakeThese individual little cakes are amazing and ready to eat in one minute! They are perfect for whenever you feel like a treat without all the fat and calories that cake can have. Genius idea!INGREDIENTS:1 box Angel Food Cake Mix1 box Cake Mix - Any Flavor2 Tbsp WaterMakes 1 serving.DIRECTIONS:In a gallon ziploc bag, combine the two cake mixes together an [..]

Mitt, really in touch with the average American....

Published on 2012-02-24 15:29:00

"Presidential candidate Mitt Romney on being back home in Michigan:"I like the fact that most of the cars I see are Detroit-made automobiles. I drive a Mustang and a Chevy pick-up truck. Ann drives a couple of Cadillacs, actually. "

Spam and eggs.

Published on 2012-02-24 11:33:00

Jiujiu had a funny post listing the goofy stuff spammers wrote in their "comments" so I actually looked in my spam filter... Here's some:I have been exploring for a bit for any high-quality articles or weblog posts in this sort of area. Exploring in Yahoo I eventually stumbled upon this site. Studying this information So i am satisfied to show that I have a very excellent uncanny feeling I discovered just what I needed. I so much unquestionably will make sure to don’t omit this site and pro [..]

Ronda and Miesha

Published on 2012-02-23 10:14:00

I enjoyed this interview.I think Ronda needs just a tiny bit less of the confidence... not in her skills, but in her own rightness and opinions. She's just a little too free with her words, and I think maybe they'll bite her someday. She comes across too strongly, treading the line of b*tchery. She's already my favorite female MMA fighter bar none because her judo and her armbar give me tinglies, but I would like her more if she seemed more humble. She's right in what she says though... 01:5 [..]

RicksonGracie Dammit! Santorum is such a LIAR!

Published on 2012-02-22 15:16:00

Euthanasia in the Netherlands: Rick Santorum’s bogus statistics Posted by Glenn Kessler here, on the Washington Post at 06:00 AM ET, 02/22/2012. “In the Netherlands, people wear different bracelets if they are elderly. And the bracelet is: ‘Do not euthanize me.’ Because they have voluntary euthanasia in the Netherlands but half of the people who are euthanized — ten percent of all deaths in the Netherlands — half of those people are enthan [..]

Repost: the Art of Flow Rolling

Published on 2012-02-22 13:34:00

Was reminded of this excellent instructional article on the art of the flow roll today, so I decided to share. It's really foundational stuff. Aside from the great article, Christian put together this 37 minute video that is worth everyone's time to watch.The original source is Christian at Zhoozhitzu do Graugardo.

Dang gear is so expensive... a solution is at hand!

Published on 2012-02-17 09:22:00

How much does it suck to buy a new gi... wash it once, and have it shrink too much to be wearable? Or you try to shrink it, and it doesn't shrink enough?How much does it suck to think you like your new gi, wear it a couple classes, and realize that it really doesn't fit you all that well?How much does it suck to start out in BJJ and right off the bat it seems you have to spend $150 on a gi, when you're not even sure you're sticking with the sport?Or how about you move, and you need a Gracie Bar [..]

Ready to perfect your BJJ, network, bond, AND enjoy vacation???

Published on 2012-02-16 12:15:00

Ladies, get ready for the Womens Grapple Camp this summer-- start planning now! I just finished a mini-camp, a 3-day weekend in San Antonio, full of great jiu jitsu taught by Val Worthington and Emily Kwok and fun times with other like-minded gals. I can only imagine what a full week would be like! This one will be hostessed by Mallory Kraft, a blue belt and awesome friend of mine. Here's Mallory (blue gi) last year at the Pan--Here's a picture from a previous camp -- if you start counting [..]

Stupid spammers from Website Design Bangalore

Published on 2012-02-15 10:38:00

Sorry folks. Haven't had time to post anything because every day I'm swamped with anywhere from 50-100 "comments" from this stupid company in India! Their SEO people are obviously morons. Please feel free to send an email to support@nuvodev.com complaining, if you like.

Birth control, insurance, and Catholic hospitals/employers....

Published on 2012-02-09 11:42:00

Reposted from Slate, by Amanda Marcotte:"With all the fussing going on over the Obama administration's sensible refusal to carve out huge exceptions in their new contraception rules for religious-affiliated institutions that serve the public, I fear that there are a lot of misperceptions floating about regarding what it is that Catholic-affiliated hospitals and universities are really like, or how actual Catholics feel about this situation. Some numbers are helpful. Twenty-eight states already r [..]

Screw cutting weight-- FUDGY brownies, I'm tellin' ya.

Published on 2012-02-09 11:32:00

So, if the thought of box-mix brownies for Valentine's (or any-tines) offends... here are some brownies with extra fudginess (substituted pulverized nuts for some of the flour for added richness and less dryness..) Got the recipe from L.V. Anderson on Slate. But before the recipe, a brief report. I pulled myself up to a chin-up position with just my arms (JUST MY ARMS!!!) yesterday... twice... *prance prance* And then did it again with just the help of my tippy-toes on the wall 3 more times [..]

Top 7 reasons nogi is good for your gi game

Published on 2012-02-08 11:16:00

Andrew Smith is an instructor at Revolution BJJ in Richmond VA. He's a first-degree blackbelt in BJJ under Julio “Foca” Fernandez. Smith is a three-time Pan champion (plus a silver and a bronze), a 20x US Grappling champion, and a decorated judo blackbelt. He wrote a nice two-part series on why it's good to train both gi and nogi. I thought the second half, on how nogi helps your gi game, was a good reminder for me and maybe a bit of a kick in the pants to get me out of my kimono a little [..]

Breasts.

Published on 2012-02-07 15:32:00

I'm sure the vast majority of people reading this can point to an aunt, a cousin, a sister, a best friend who has had breast cancer. My best friend Heather from high school has it, and just finished her last chemo treatment on Groundhog Day. (Next up-- surgery, then radiation.) So far, the estimated new cases and deaths from breast cancer in the United States in 2012 (and this is just February) is over 225,000 women and almost 2,200 men with new cases of cancer and almost 40,000 women [..]

Cool interview with Abmar Barbosa.... and some Mendes Brothers for dessert...

Published on 2012-02-07 15:08:00

Check out SubmissionControl's interview with Abmar Barbosa here...And if you're in San Diego, seriously-- go train with those Mendes boys. They are both training 3x a day at Atos San Diego, Andre Galvao's gym, getting ready for the Pan.2009 World Pro Cup finals, Rafa Mendes v. Cobrinha: Rafa v. Bruno Malfacine, looks like ADCC 2011...Rafa v. Guilherme, 2010 World Pro Cup finals:

Cutting weight + craving chocolate = ??

Published on 2012-02-06 15:57:00

This recipe makes 12 really good brownies, only 130 calories each. They're full of chocolate flavor, not dry, chewy and utterly yummy. This comes from Cook's Illustrated which is hands-down the best recipe and "learn how to cook" site on the internet.To keep the texture and flavor just right, use a combination of semisweet chocolate and cocoa powder instead of unsweetened chocolate (which is higher in fat and must be used in combination with more sugar and butter). A little espresso powder [..]

Stupid knee.

Published on 2012-02-06 12:10:00

Tweaked my knee again in class on Saturday. Not even rolling-- just drilling the technique. Actually, I was being the "dummy" for my partner to drill her technique with. That kind of sucked. Also it sucked that I accidentally much-softer-than-punched-but-I-can't-think-of-what-to-call-that her in her mouth while we were drilling something else when we both moved a little unpredictably in the fatal wrong combination of directions... Also it sucked that she accidentally kicked me in the head l [..]

I made it 2 weeks, 1 day.

Published on 2011-07-01 15:30:00

I was supposed to fully rest for 6 weeks.After a week, swimming and "light" walking allowed.I'm sorry, but swimming, alone, in a small kidney-shaped backyard pool, is boring. (I think it would be boring in any shape or size of pool, to be honest.)

The Sixth Minute

Published on 2011-06-28 11:38:00

Click on this picture to enlarge. It's called the Sixth Minute and it's a cool idea, I think. So if you want discount codes emailed to you, check it out.

Summer vacation, lessons learned.

Published on 2011-06-27 14:05:00

I'm taking a vacation from jiu jitsu. My habitually-tweaked knee and a more recent foot injury demand it, so I'm not on the mats until at least August 1. Strangely enough, I'm not going crazy missing it. Weird, right? Part of it is the heat. I s

San Diego??

Published on 2011-06-22 21:25:00

Hey... Southwest Airlines had a sale (ends tomorrow!) and I jumped on a roundtrip ticket to San Diego in November. Looks like I'll be checking out some of the excellent jiu jitsu out there. Talk to me about San Diego! Who lives there? where should

Update: BJJ in Moldova

Published on 2011-06-21 15:18:00

Super happy to share this with you from Bobby:Hey guys,Thanks to everyone who pitched in and made this work. My wife and I are headed to Moldova tomorrow with two or three bags full of gis but I will still have to make at least another trip in August

Leticia Ribeiro/Beatriz Mesquita seminar review

Published on 2011-06-20 13:29:00

Thirty women and girls of all ages and belts braved the heat and humidity of central Texas in June to learn from two preeminent blackbelt champions, and it was so worth it! One week after nailing her sixth world championship, Leticia Ribeiro and her

One deal a day at BJJHQ

Published on 2011-06-13 11:14:00

One deal a day and when it sells out, it's gone-- BJJHQ.com. Check out today's deal-- a Vulkan ProLight gi for only $135. Shipping is only $5!! Only A1 and A4 sizes left, sorry....

Rodolfo Vieira seminar last night...

Published on 2011-06-10 17:10:00

The Carlson Gracie school in San Antonio hosted 6th degree blackbelt Master Julio Cesar Pereira and reigning blackbelt Absolute World Champion Rodolfo Vieira for a three hour long seminar last night, and I was happy to make the 90 minute drive to att

Why have a women-only seminar?

Published on 2011-06-09 12:37:00

From: [name deleted]To: georgetteoden@yahoo.comSent: Thursday, June 9, 2011 11:33 AMSubject: Female BJJ SeminarsHi Georgette,This is [name deleted]. I met you at the __________.I just read your post on the Leticia seminar and wanted to know your thou

Rodolfo Vieira tonight. Leticia Ribeiro & Bia Mesquita, Sunday.

Published on 2011-06-09 10:46:00

I'm driving to San Antonio this afternoon to attend a seminar with Master Julio Pereira and Rodolfo Vieira. Then Saturday, 6x world champion Leticia Ribeiro and 4x world champion Bia Mesquita arrive in Austin, for a ladies-only seminar at my academy

Get your horse, get your bells...

Published on 2011-06-07 11:07:00

From Eugene Robinson, Washington Post, today: "Sarah Palin is a fraud with charisma — and enough political support to effectively hold the Republican Party hostage. She is ridiculous and dangerous in equal measure.Palin is certain about

Weekend report...

Published on 2011-06-06 17:17:00

Spent the weekend in Spring TX with family friends and got to roll at a new (to me) school... Team Gacho. They were very welcoming and friendly, and I had a good time at the women's open mat that afternoon. I put in some time doing nogi as well, wh

Mundials results and writeups...

Published on 2011-06-06 10:54:00

I did not compete at, or work, the Worlds this year.... sadly! But I did watch as much of the Budovideos stream as I could. Thanks to Caleb and Jake for the color commentary; I know from personal experience how overwhelming it can be to try to watc

Gi Review: the Datsusara MMA Hemp Gi

Published on 2011-06-03 12:37:00

I love that there are gi companies out there trying to be innovative. I first heard of making gis out of hemp about two years ago. Unfortunately, that company never took off, so I was never able to buy one. Bummer!But then I heard about Chris Odel

Sarah Pinnochio Palin

Published on 2011-06-03 10:39:00

From the Washington Post, by Glenn Kessler, today...."Former Alaska governor Sarah Palin has spent this week taking a high-profile bus tour up to New Hampshire, in what may or may not be a prelude to a presidential run in 2012. She spent half an hour

MUNDIALS!!!!!!

Published on 2011-06-01 12:42:00

Hot dog, starting tomorrow, more fabulous jiu jitsu on display at the Long Beach Pyramid....If you don't read any other stuff about this year's Worlds, read THIS PIECE by JSho over on the MMA Underground forum. He delves into each [mens'] division

Urgent request for a Worlds competitor...

Published on 2011-05-30 21:41:00

Hey, my teammate found hotel space for Worlds... but I received another similar request from a gal who is competing but whose stay arrangements fell through last-minute. She arrives around 3 pm Wednesday at LAX and might rent a car depending on how t

Stupid foot still messed up...

Published on 2011-05-28 17:00:00

Last week, rolling with a friend, I suffered a weird toe/foot injury. You know how people go for a scissor sweep, and the person bases out by widening their knees and getting lower and heavier, so the next sweep they try is the knee push variation?

Leticia Ribeiro Women Only Seminar- Austin TX, Sunday June 12th!

Published on 2011-05-26 12:35:00

That's all you REALLY need to know... but wait! there's more!AND she's bringing Bia Mesquita, another blackbelt badass, another multiple-time world champion...AND it's only $60! That's TWENTY DOLLARS AN HOUR.... ridiculous, right? What a sweet deal

Like my friend's video please!

Published on 2011-05-26 10:54:00

Help my friend Laura promote women's BJJ and win a scholarship! Like this video and please repost...

"As a whole, women's jiu jitsu is not up to the level of men's jiu jitsu."

Published on 2011-05-24 13:08:00

This is the more complete explication of my friend's position from the other day. Please give it a read and feel free to add your comments at the end. I appreciate his willingness to spend the time and effort laying out what may be, initially, an u

There's always time to fill in the holes.

Published on 2011-05-24 12:37:00

I've been dragging my feet on being promoted pretty much ever since I received my blue belt. I've always felt like I had too many holes, not enough game, for whatever level I was at, whatever stripe or so on.Trust your instructor, everyone says...

Sexy, sexy.

Published on 2011-05-20 16:53:00

OK, first off, I'd like to say that I think Joshua Bell is sexy. You've heard about those lists married people have, of the 5 famous people that they'd be allowed to sleep with, right? Some ladies' lists feature people like Brad Pitt, Jake Gyllenha

Roast chicken and sex.

Published on 2011-05-19 10:32:00

Before I get to the title-reference of the post-- check out Dan's thorough review of the new Black Eagle Predator MKII gi... I'm so excited, I can't wait for mine to arrive. Sounds like it's well suited for competition, and for people who use gi lap

One of my favorite chokes...

Published on 2011-05-18 12:15:00

Stephan Kesting sent out this great video of Marcelo Garcia laying out the essentials for one of his favorite submissions, the north-south choke. I get to this position a lot, but don't finish as often as I'd like. (I do think it's easier to finish

Is mens' jiu jitsu better than womens'?

Published on 2011-05-17 10:29:00

OK-- before we discuss this controversy... my twin niece and nephy? They're home and doing well!!This is Harrison:And here's Harrison with his sister Ella:I'll get to see them weekend after next :)OK, the controversy. Had a conversation yesterday w

Not going to Mundials.

Published on 2011-05-16 15:29:00

My knee feels great when I'm rolling, except when I go butterfly with that leg, or try to catch halfguard with that leg... it's when I stop rolling, sit on the side a while, and then try to walk that it bugs me. Or if I watch a movie, sitting relati

Jiu jitsu math...

Published on 2011-05-13 16:44:00

Cleaning out the inbox still.. came across this reassuring and insightful advice from one of my instructors, Donald. Hope it helps you.. I'm sure it will help me if I remember to put it into action more often!"On Mon, Feb 7, 2011 at 3:48 PM, Georget

PINK gi... in Turkey!

Published on 2011-05-13 16:14:00

I must be getting old. I tried to clean out some of the 1000+ emails in my inbox, which date back over a year... and found one from a cool chick named Sara. I don't remember if I ever posted this stuff!! So if I did, oh well, review :) And if I di

Finally, sending gis and belts to Moldova..

Published on 2011-05-13 11:49:00

Thanks to a cool blue belt in Canada, some gis are making their way to Moldova. Andrei Tarasenco of Gracie Barra is leaving on May 24 and graciously handcarrying gis and belts.I figure the easier thing for financial donations will be to set up a Pay

It's all in your freakin' head...

Published on 2011-05-12 14:15:00

Congrats to Australian purple belt Kit Dale for his Brasileiro win (and thanks to Matt at the Grappling Dummy for the find).... Kit's no slouch, having taken gold recently in the Abu Dhabi Pro World Cup. Check what Kit had to say:"On the way there I

Reviews...

Published on 2011-05-11 12:47:00

Yes, yes I have many reviews to write. Short version here but more to come.Hemp gi: been wearing the crap out of it to test it fully; one loose thread in the seam of the pants and wanted to see if it would disintegrate. Far from it; I really dig th

The Three P's

Published on 2011-05-10 17:08:00

I have posted before about how much I like Cane Prevost's insights about teaching and learning jiu jitsu. Well, he's recently posted another concise exploration of what the Three P's model means and how it came to be. I suggest you give it a read.

Stunning lack of competitive drive.

Published on 2011-05-09 15:58:00

I was about to preface this with "This is how I always get" but that sounded a little funny, as this is only my third spring in jiu jitsu... pretty small sample size. Nonetheless it's accurate. I "always" get fired up to compete after being off the

crap my knee.

Published on 2011-05-07 15:20:00

I woke up this morning with a knee roughly approaching the size of a ruby red grapefruit, and about as likely to bend in the middle. So I alternated warmth and ice, took some ibuprofen, and tried to walk around some to loosen it up. Lately I seem t

Oh HELL YEAH!

Published on 2011-05-05 18:46:00

And saving the best for last.....Yes, that's right... Allie's writing a BOOK!Coming out in 2012...

Gis for Moldova

Published on 2011-05-03 16:06:00

Sorry, too busy at work to investigate this option, but a friend in DC (Hi Home Improvement Ninja! update your blog!) suggested I look into crowdsourcing or crowdfunding to get some charitable donations going towards the Moldova project.Anyone out th

Your assignment, should you choose to accept it...

Published on 2011-05-03 13:07:00

Found this reposted on Side Control's blog. Check it out."Here's your assignment.Ok, check this out, I recently had my students focus on this because at some point you have to become a Master at your go to moves. Most people will become really good

Hahaha the joke's on me...

Published on 2011-05-03 11:32:00

Once registration for the Dallas Open closed, the IBJJF updated the competitor lists... now there's *3* of us in middle heavy... and *2* in middle.. and *4* in light, which is my weight class... so I didn't need to register in middle heavy after all

OK, fine, I signed up.

Published on 2011-04-29 12:09:00

I wasn't going to compete at the Dallas Open, the next IBJJF tournament in Texas on May 8th, because I've slacked off a bit in the workout department and been eating like a condemned criminal, as I noted.But thanks to my friend Steve, I was manipulat

The appalling ignorance of Texas State Rep Leo Berman

Published on 2011-04-29 10:24:00

This is an email my coworker Matt received from a Texas State Representative (from Tyler, Texas.)---------- Forwarded message ----------From: District6 Berman DISTRICT6.BERMAN@house.state.tx.usDate: Thu, Apr 28, 2011 at 9:22 AMSubject: RE: Sharon Gut

Out of it.

Published on 2011-04-27 13:40:00

I haven't trained hard in a while and I miss it. By training hard, I mean training 3x a day, doing conditioning at lunch, timed rounds and round robins and shark tanks and such. I had a pile of stuff blow up at work which took me off the mats again

Sports Day in Moldova coming soon!

Published on 2011-04-21 13:25:00

I just got an email from Bobby-- they're doing a "sports day" in Moldova in late May, and are hoping to run an adults' absolute as an "appetizer" for future BJJ training, so let's finalize the sending-gis program! I'd rather anyone who is donating s

Gathering together my coach-sorcerers and my game.

Published on 2011-04-14 17:41:00

One of the jiu jitsu issues I've put a lot of thought into is the difference between an instructor and a coach. Instructors: Vary in experience level (may have as much as you, may have less, may have more)Might teach you something by accident (by do

Rise above the bullshit.

Published on 2011-04-13 16:15:00

Thanks, Big Mike, for sharing this.I have been dealing with a personal challenge lately, from someone I thought was a friend. It involves gossip, lies, and my refusal to be intimidated. And I happened to stumble across these bits of wisdom from Win

Women's Grapple Camp-- Tampa, May 6-7

Published on 2011-04-12 13:24:00

Registration for Tampa Mini-Camp is open... On May 6-7, 2011, WomensGrappling.org will be holding their next weekend mini-camp at Gracie Tampa in Tampa, FL, USA. It will include two full days of training and discussions, plus an optional Thursday ni

Thoughts on measuring your skills vs your opponents'....

Published on 2011-04-12 12:33:00

Wrote this in response to a friend's musings on his tournament performance this past weekend. My grips are super tired from open mat and class yesterday, so typing is a pain, and I'll take the easy way out with this copy/paste job. "I agree, I've n

Miss you!

Published on 2011-04-08 17:22:00

As you know, work has really been pounding me lately. I love what I do, don't get me wrong, and normally my deadlines are sufficiently spaced apart that I can just walk along across my calendar squares at a normal clip. Lately though, someone set t

Might be a little easier...

Published on 2011-04-06 13:00:00

Two very long days in the office. Today, also in the office, but shorter. Tomorrow, big oral argument in Houston. Sadly, not much time on the mats.Enough time to see this and share with you though...

Eyecandy for you...

Published on 2011-04-04 10:27:00

Thanks Mike for pointing me this way... and thanks for keeping the streets of Brooklyn safe! (Thanks also to all the ladies and gentlemen in blue, brown, or whatever color your uniforms are, keeping us safe here in the US and representing our intere

Please help Roy Dean...

Published on 2011-04-01 13:57:00

Roy Dean is offering his ENTIRE INSTRUCTIONAL SET if you donate $250 to research combating muscular dystrophy... or his new one, the White Belt Bible, is yours for a $50 donation. (Here's a review of the White Belt Bible and I must say, it sounds li

My Pan footage ... *cringe*

Published on 2011-04-01 08:44:00

No, 20-0 was not some elaborate April Fools' joke... haha.. me vs. Jennifer Recinos (and I'm encouraged to add, not only did she win gold at the Pan, but she also won the Abu Dhabi Pro trial in Las Vegas.) I did a quick google of her, and apparently

Making weight... Questions at the end.

Published on 2011-03-31 13:01:00

First... just crazy. I get a weekly email from the Home/Garden section of the Washington Post, and I read one of the articles about kitchen organization. It actually said this nonsense:"Fridge aesthetics. Have you considered artfully arranging the

Reflections on the 2011 Pan.

Published on 2011-03-29 22:38:00

Here's what it looks like before anything gets started:I'll tell you right up front, I didn't post my footage yet. I tried to watch it for the first time this evening, but I couldn't bear to. Ended up fast-forwarding through a bunch of it and even

poopie....

Published on 2011-03-26 08:53:00

I promise a full explanation & footage when I get home... for now, the smartphone version:Big props to my husband, best support crew ever. To Steve Hall, Alliance blackbelt, who cornered me out of the kindness of his heart since there was no one fro

Breakfast get-together at the Pan American Championship

Published on 2011-03-22 11:17:00

I'd love to meet you! So if you'll be at the Pans on blackbelt day (Sunday March 27) I encourage you to come to the tournament hotel for breakfast before all the world-class jiu jitsu explodes your head :) And since I compete on Friday at 1:20pm, I

Please send gis for Moldova BJJ program... current info here!

Published on 2011-03-21 22:46:00

From Bobby McMasters, today! "I don't know if you're good with technology but perhaps you could make a running counter of how many gi pledges you have, how many were sent, and how many I eventually receive (confirmed by my contact here in Romania).

Super basics.

Published on 2011-03-21 15:20:00

David Dunn, a JJ Machado bb, teaches a handful of useful stuff, like counters to the stack pass, reversal from bottom side control, an elevator sweep from bottom half... nice solid basic stuff. Thanks to the guys at DSTRYR-Sg for bringing this to my

Inside Robson's head...

Published on 2011-03-21 11:26:00

Matt and Lindsey, who stayed with me this weekend, train at a Nova Uniao gym in Dallas. Gene, in town for SXSW, got his purple and brown belts under Gustavo Dantas/Nova Uniao. BJJHeroes says this about Gustavo--"Gustavo Dantas was part of the golde

Private, seminar and promotions...

Published on 2011-03-20 15:25:00

Fun weekend... had houseguests and visitors in town.. Kristine, Triin, Lindsey and Matt for the Hillary seminar, and Gene from San Fran for SXSW. Did an hour-long private with Hillary Williams before her excellent 3-hour techfest in San Antonio Satu

New stuff.

Published on 2011-03-19 00:49:00

SXSW, the biggest pain in the ass music/film/geekout festival, has infested my lovely town.The upside, besides seeing Fightville's premiere (ROCKING movie) is hanging out with different peeps.1. Coach Josh, purple belt in BJJ and blackbelt in judo,

Nuclear crisis is freaking me out.

Published on 2011-03-17 09:10:00

One of the most gripping, horrifying, can't-stop-thinking-about-it movies I've ever seen is K-19. Before that, I'd seen The Day After in grade school. I was 7 when Three Mile Island melted down and almost 14 when Chernobyl happened (pictured below).

Gunning down immigrants and other democratic experiments....

Published on 2011-03-16 07:41:00

Published in yesterday's Washington Post, written by Dana Milbank, found here."Here in Washington, the immigration debate is in stalemate. But in Kansas, there has been a breakthrough.This striking achievement came about this week during a meeting of

Registered for the Pans!

Published on 2011-03-15 14:53:00

I registered for the Pans last night. Man, that really puts a smile on my face! Just thinking about the way the crowd vibrates with passion and intensity... ahhhh! Good stuff! Makes me want to hop around and do a dance and pound my fists against

Hot knife.

Published on 2011-03-15 10:42:00

Had a great private this morning with Donald. There's never any lack of stuff to work on. As always... I want passes, so we worked passing. I realize I've been working on passing guard my whole jiu jitsu life. (Secretly I want to be a hot knife a

I love judo.

Published on 2011-03-14 14:45:00

Great weekend. Super busy at work so I'll just bullet-point it:* Fightville premiered at the SXSW Film Festival and I can't say enough good stuff about it. Excellent documentary on the lives of MMA fighters and promoters in small-town Louisiana.

Teaser: the hemp gi...

Published on 2011-03-14 12:43:00

From: Datsusara MMAComing soon... a review of their new hemp BJJ gi...

BJJ abroad-- gis, money, teaching, sheep....

Published on 2011-03-12 08:41:00

From Robert:To all my Moldova BJJ enthusiasts, first of all thanks for all the good ideas. You have inspired me to ask around and try and do some networking based on peoples' ideas. I must apologize because this will be a long post and I know that lo

HELP JAPAN!!!!

Published on 2011-03-11 16:59:00

Japan was hit by one of the largest earthquakes ever recorded on Friday. The magnitude-8.9 quake spawned a deadly tsunami that slammed into the nation's east coast, leaving a huge swath of devastation in its wake. Hundreds of people are dead and many

One man's inspiring journey.

Published on 2011-03-11 10:59:00

I can't tell you how much I love hearing from you readers. I get SO MUCH SUPPORT and encouragement from you! For example, in response to my post the other day about the little girl who was raped, I received the following letter (anonymized by me an

New BJJ app for the iPhone!

Published on 2011-03-11 09:35:00

Read this article on Liam's blog. He interviews Royler Gracie blackbelt Eddie Kone about the new app about to be released, covering all kinds of exciting techniques for maintaining, attacking from, and defending the mount. Unlike many iPhone BJJ ap

If you're looking for a gi or some new nogi stuff...

Published on 2011-03-10 14:25:00

You might have heard me mention once or twice how much I like my Black Eagle gi, but you might discount my enthusiasm because they sponsor me. Really-- it's kind of the other way around. I like the gi, and I can't shut up about it, so the

Brilliant.

Published on 2011-03-10 11:37:00

First, a great little blurb bashing the NYT's abysmal coverage of the gang rape of an 11 year old girl in Texas. As a former journalist (photojournalist, but still) and sexual assault survivor, I wince and hang my head on behalf of that NYT rep

Swinging dead gerbils....

Published on 2011-03-09 11:58:00

I think I need a jiu jitsu field trip. Maybe a month in Brazil (dream on!) or a month in Southern California. I know I can't make it happen till after Mundials (or maybe even Masters/Seniors Worlds in Rio in July?)But reading Jake's aweso

The Sorcerer and the Apprentice.

Published on 2011-03-08 12:02:00

The fabulous advice from Mark Twight, the trainer for the cast/crew of the movie "300," bears repeating again, and again:"If you weren't given the gift you can't get the gift so the best you can do - if your goal is important - is work as hard as yo

Hillary Williams. San Antonio. Saturday March 19. Only $30.

Published on 2011-03-07 23:22:00

ONLY THIRTY FREAKIN' DOLLARS TO TRAIN FOR THREE HOURS WITH ONE OF THE TOP COMPETING FEMALE BLACKBELTS ON THE INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT. 'Nuff said, though I will add it's women-only, from 11a-2pm, and you should contact Lana Hunter for more info. A

Austin Open tournament report

Published on 2011-03-07 10:08:00

Wow, our team really did WELL this weekend! Not all competitors in this picture, and not all medals won are being worn, but it's a start....Donald brought in his top brownbelt, Darren Branch, from Cleveland, and he won his gi division. Bruce,

Update: Gis for Moldova program

Published on 2011-03-06 21:20:00

Here's the email I received from Robert McMasters, the former Peace Corps volunteer there who toured Christian around... I solicit your thoughts and suggestions... and thank you everyone who has so generously offered gis, rashies, money and time for

Online streamed 24-hr grappleathon fundraiser TODAY, March 5th

Published on 2011-03-04 22:08:00

My friend Ashley posted this on her blog and it merits a shout-out!A teammate from my Kingston, Ontario [Canada] club of Martial Arts Planet had the idea to organize a grappling based fundraiser. With a little team effort, the event is taking place t

Please send me gis for the kids in Moldova.

Published on 2011-03-04 09:47:00

I was incredibly moved by Christian's account of the kids training BJJ in Moldova. He wrote:"That place is really an experience. As I wrote in the other post, there are holes in the floor, the lights are old streetlights and the soccer goals are jus

Tournament on Saturday

Published on 2011-03-03 23:56:00

I'm competing in a local tournament, the Austin Open, this Saturday, conveniently located in Austin. It's run by the guys at Fight to Win & World Grappling Circuit and it's usually fairly well put together. I'm also working the tournament for spare

11 submission flow by Erik Paulsen

Published on 2011-03-03 11:03:00

If you're not reading Christian Graugart's fabulous blog on his round-the-world journey as the BJJ Globetrotter, you're MISSING OUT. His photography is awesome and his generous spirit really shines through. Read this post on teaching kids in Burlac

Blogger/Blog reader Breakfast at the Pans--

Published on 2011-03-01 16:08:00

Soooo... anyone wanna get together for some face time and a bite to eat at the Pan American Jiu Jitsu Championship? I was thinking it would be fantastic to meet you in person, maybe Sunday morning March 27, early, before blackbelt day gets started?L

Nutty of the day...

Published on 2011-03-01 12:09:00

From Jake: "10 minutes of skipping [rope] burns the same calories as 30 minutes of jogging" - Jon Hinds, NBA fitness coachFloyd Mayweather:And your non-nutty.... resident badass Tim Kennedy lays down the law. PINK IS FEROCIOUS!I defy you to watch t

Pans camp...

Published on 2011-02-28 22:50:00

Last night... wrestling training. Today... crossfit, then wrestling drilling, and tonight, wrestling drilling, then a private with Daniel Moraes. Mmmm his top game is just.. tight!I am inspired by the changes I see in my body. 7 lbs in 7 days. I

A shank in the elbow, or "How not to hurt people when you visit their academy."

Published on 2011-02-28 10:43:00

First things first. Check out the preemie niece and nephie! That's my husband's brother John, holding Harrison (over 7 lbs!) on the left and Ella (over 6!) on the right. Ella is still getting some assistance with her breathing, and Harrison still

My personal Pans camp....

Published on 2011-02-24 11:13:00

I am really looking forward to Pans and Mundials this year! The Houston Open was a great warmup. Now, I am pushing hard to get in the best possible shape and present the best possible game. With that in mind, I have one, maybe two tournaments betw

Hillary Williams seminar in San Antonio, a week before Pans!

Published on 2011-02-23 00:20:00

HILLARY WILLIAMS, one of the youngest American female bjj black belts, will be coming to Carlson Gracie Texas (San Antonio) for a female-only seminar Saturday 3/19 from 11AM-2PM, $40. Don't miss the opportunity to learn from one of the most active

New Hyper is up!

Published on 2011-02-22 17:53:00

Of course you have to go check out the new episode on Hyper....

Back in the saddle!

Published on 2011-02-22 14:31:00

I had a fantastic 3-day weekend with my girlfriends. Every year for Presidents' Day weekend we get together somewhere in the South, and this time it was in Cocoa Beach, FL. I'll post more pictures and update this post tomorrow. For now, this

Love for Jiu Jitsu and Underpants.

Published on 2011-02-17 15:54:46

Just discovered a fun, well-written blog by a fun grapply girl named Kerawin.She writes:Life is good. Life is sweet. I love love love love LOVE Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I absolutely love everything about it. I love getting worked and bruised and slightly

Girls in Gis, get your grapple on!!

Published on 2011-02-17 14:36:16

San Antonio Texas-- Sunday after next-- join us! Encourage your wimminfolk (and girl chillun) to attend whether they do jits or no.....

The future of womens' BJJ....

Published on 2011-02-16 12:04:29

I was asked this question for a local journalist's interview to be posted on TxMMA.com. Here's my response. Wondering what you think about it or how you would answer... not just for women in Texas, but women in the sport generally. Please

Repost: Dev's First and Second Year Reflections...

Published on 2011-02-15 14:21:00

Again, saving some of what I think are Dev's best insights...His "first year" post (2009):It's been exactly a year since I started this BJJ stuff, and after getting my blue belt Monday, I thought it would be the right time to reflect a little on w

Repost from Dev: Tournament Prep 1 & 2

Published on 2011-02-15 14:04:00

Since Dev is shutting down his blog Fueled by Fear, I wanted to preserve some of his stuff... all that follows is his work.Part One:I wanted to talk a little about tournament prep in this post. I'm not overly experienced, but I've done 5 tourn

Turquoise Timberly

Published on 2011-02-15 08:49:00

Meet Timberly from Auburn AL... she trains at Auburn MMA under Randall Phillips, a brownbelt under Andre Pedemeiras... she dyed her gi turquoise after reading about it here. Congrats on your orange belt!Timberly's brother trains wrestling and MMA the

Houston Open 2011 footage

Published on 2011-02-15 06:49:00

Check back here for updates as I think I did get some footage of other matches which may be of interest. However, first things first! MINE! haha.. and don't forget if you haven't read it yet, my description of the matches and the tournament i

Shinya Aoki-- sweet like candy...

Published on 2011-02-14 22:09:00

Thanks to Thien Ho for the linkup!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Published on 2011-02-14 12:02:00

Happy Valentine's Day everyone :) Hope you had a good weekend. I did! The tournament went really well. I didn't get many photos on my own camera because I was working as scorer, but our team represented well. Here's Rebecca, on the left, winning

How Georgette got her groove back... the chocolate donut post.

Published on 2011-02-11 15:26:00

Hey wow... a tournament, and I'm not stressed out, unhappy, nervous, freaking, or starving and fantasizing about chocolate donuts!OK... a chocolate donut sounds pretty damn good. But really...My biggest relief of fear might be because I'm finally "u

Searching for a light feather ....

Published on 2011-02-10 22:41:00

Ladies-- if you're a feather or light feather brown or black belt and you will be competing between now and the Pan Ams, please message me! Thank you!Trying to get some matches for a girlfriend who just went brown (PARABENS, Suzanne Ramsden, faixa ma

Don't forget to tap....

Published on 2011-02-10 14:01:00

Oli Geddes, badass brownbelt across the pond, in the black gi...

Dangnabbit....

Published on 2011-02-10 11:31:00

I am wearing a wrist brace as I type. And an ankle brace.The wrist happened last night. The ankle happened before Christmas. If you're one of the gals I'm fighting this weekend, so be it. Now you know-- the secret's out. I'm just frustrated. The

New womens' (and mens') gis out there!!

Published on 2011-02-09 11:57:00

Even though I have *cough17cough* gis, I always can use more. I'm SUPER pumped about Black Eagle's second-generation Predator gi, coming out in March. I literally cannot wait to get my hands on one! The Black Eagle I have is my hands-down favorite

Question for you...

Published on 2011-02-08 23:58:00

Man, lots of bits and pieces to share today.1. Cool new instructional just came out from a Roger Gracie brownbelt in the UK... check it..2. Awesome comp class tonight.. takedown wars for me were still full of epic flail but I landed a few and wasn

Red Menace goes down under!!!

Published on 2011-02-07 17:09:00

Hey ya'll... this is Tenee! The newest outpost of Red Menacery is kicking butt and taking names in Australia, with the help of the Gracie Games (on Gracie Bullyproof) and her dad Ray...Keep training, girl, I am POSITIVE you are headed for big t

KTFO

Published on 2011-02-06 01:08:00

I really enjoyed the fights tonight. I like Donald Cerrone and Paul Kelly both... ditto Jon Jones and Ryan Bader... and Rocha! I predicted Anderson Silva would win (even though he's a bit of a cock) and BOOM! what a kick! As I

Weekend report.

Published on 2011-02-05 18:56:00

Friday was an adventure, trying to get to work on treacherously icy streets only to find out it was cancelled (haha, I was there anyways, so I stayed long enough to get a little done before heading to open mats 1 and 2...)At noon open mat, I had some

Could you swim for NINE DAYS STRAIGHT?!

Published on 2011-02-03 14:30:00

I'm going to make a pitch here, for one of my favorite charities... please give it a read and share it if you feel it's a worthy cause.. thanks.Scientists documented an epic feat of endurance: a mother polar bear, forced to swim for over a week

I love when they pay attention to our needs....

Published on 2011-02-03 12:32:00

The other day, I asked Donald (Park, our badass Royler bb) to help me with my closed guard pass, as I was getting scissor swept again which hadn't happened since my whitebelt days.He rebuilt my pass from the ground up and I am ever so much more happy

Abu Dhabi World Pro Trials-- Rio

Published on 2011-02-02 16:01:00

Bia v. Vanessa OliveiraHellen Bastos v. Monica GoncalvesGilbert Burns v. Michael LanghiRodolfo Vieira v. Andre Galvao-- Brazilian trials, ADCC, 2009Fabricio Werdum v. Romulo Barral, Jiu-Jitsu World Black Belt 2007

Contest winner!

Published on 2011-02-02 10:43:00

Congrats to Megan, who suggested Jiu Jiu as Julia's nickname for the contest... Julia picked you as the winner this morning, and if you email me your mailing address, I'll get that Stephan Kesting DVD out to you this weekend! :) Congrats Megan!

Getting ready for Houston.

Published on 2011-02-01 12:10:00

Lately I have been better at focusing on the "fringe" of my jiu jitsu vocabulary (aka the stuff I don't quite know yet, but is very close to being known.) I'm doing a lot of asking someone a question.. then trying their answer out "in the field," no

Motivational video for grapplers...

Published on 2011-01-30 15:27:00

Stephy, the Jiujitsunista, made an amazing highlight/tribute video to all the women grapplers out there. Check it out... it is quite moving.

The "Name Your Julia" contest!

Published on 2011-01-27 11:16:00

OK-- Julia Johansen, bjj blogger and English teacher extraordinaire, is feeling a little handle-less. She needs a nickname!Please won't you help design the appropriate moniker? Whoever wins (if she picks a winner) gets a fabulous BJJ instructional

Awesome throws, flying things, and nonflying things...

Published on 2011-01-27 10:29:00

When Yves Edwards brought in wrestling coach/superstar Zach Lamano to help him get ready for the UFC, I saw them practicing the throw you see the coach do against the student here. It was SCARY awesome.Dave Camarillo is a badass, of course. Check o

Lightweight gis as IBJJF tourney season approaches....

Published on 2011-01-25 12:43:00

The Houston International Open has all the makings of being the Texas/central US warmup tournament for the Pans and Mundials (the IBJJF World Championships). It will happen again this year in Houston, February 12-13. Last year notables like Bruno B

Fuck stasis.

Published on 2011-01-24 10:05:00

(she said, around a mouthful of oatmeal...)Read what the trainer of the actors and stunt crew of "300" had to say about stasis here... (thanks Skinny D!)"Even in the small world of mountain climbing a few guys were convinced that their betters were u

Stasis

Published on 2011-01-23 20:53:00

According to wikipedia, stasis means (in part):"A state of stability, in which all forces are equal and opposing, therefore they cancel each other out. Stasis implies, especially in science-fiction, an artificial pause that stops all physical a

Two genius how-to's

Published on 2011-01-23 16:06:00

First, Abby writes a good post on how to travel with training in mind...Second, Christian (the Globetrotting Grappler) filmed a mini-instructional on how to flow roll, found here on his usual blog, Zhoozhitsu de Graugardo...The salient points of ligh

Scariest moment in jiu jitsu?

Published on 2011-01-21 09:01:00

Please share the scariest moment (or moments) in jiu jitsu for you. Not MMA-- we can do that in another post if you like. Just jits.It can be a youtube clip, story, photo... it can be something happening to another person, or to yourself. It

Xande- DVD review

Published on 2011-01-20 10:44:00

If you're not already reading Jake's outstanding blog The Ground Never Misses, you should be. Especially you should check out his recent review of Xande's 5-dvd instructional... very nicely done.Which makes me feel like I should take a week off

Nice new blogs

Published on 2011-01-19 13:34:00

Well, not new, but new to me... they're on my Favorite Blogs list...Afrorican's blog "Work Play Obsession," Jonna's "Pink Jiu Jitsu" and Shakia's "I Wonder as I Wander"....Among others of course! :)

Los Angeles on a moment's notice...

Published on 2011-01-18 18:14:00

Last week a good friend of mine, a photojournalist from Denmark, called me from Los Angeles and invited me to spend some time there with him while he worked at the Golden Globes. Of course, I jumped at the chance. I was already committed to teachin

New Hyperbole up!

Published on 2011-01-18 15:33:00

New Hyperbole and a Half went up... thanks JC!

Sydney Oz?

Published on 2011-01-18 10:57:00

Hey-- who all trains in Sydney, Australia? Got a girlfriend who's looking for people to train with before the Abu Dhabi Pro Trials.... let me know! Thanks!

Top 50 Jiu Jitsu Blogs!

Published on 2011-01-18 00:40:00

Hey, pretty cool-- my blog was named one of the top 50 BJJ blogs.

cool musics !!! yay pogo!!!

Published on 2011-01-13 11:13:00

It's just funner this way.

Published on 2011-01-13 09:43:00

Tuesday night was competition class... a little unusual since Relson was holding a seminar on 2/3 of our mat space, so our routine was cramped a bit. Still, Donald pushed us harder than usual and it felt like a great workout. We worked on

Homework from a year ago....

Published on 2011-01-11 10:42:00

Last February, Stephan Kesting sent out this homework assignment, and I thought it would be useful to do it again... put down at least two answers to every question.Closed guard submissions: looping choke, numerous gi chokes, triangle, armbarClosed g

Getting serious about passing scissor guard.

Published on 2011-01-10 11:51:00

I had a lovely weekend near Dallas, visiting with my husband's family and seeing the preemie twins again. Of course, didn't train, and sat around eating, so of course, gained weight back (but I'm pretty sure it's water weight.) There's an

Poll: please respond by comments

Published on 2011-01-09 09:19:00

Please write a comment and describe your relationship versus BJJ negotiations (if any.) For example: you're single but future relationships will have to accommodate your desired level of training as part of the deal, as Kitsune mentioned... or you'

I've been lazy/busy...

Published on 2011-01-06 23:22:00

I haven't been writing much about my training specifics, or about how I feel about anything, lately. And I'm sorry. It's a combination of being busy and the holidays and whatever, just everything and life in general intruding. My priorities usuall

Imanari rolling heel hook

Published on 2011-01-06 10:13:00

Thanks to Thien in Melbourne, Oz for pointing this out to me today:

Daniel Roberts' sense of humor....

Published on 2011-01-04 16:59:00

Did you see any undercard fights from the last UFC? Daniel Roberts likes kimuras, and has a sense of humor.. Thanks to DSTRYR-SG for pointing out this funny interview with him...

Back home and back on the mats.

Published on 2011-01-03 23:06:00

Hope you all had a lovely holiday!!I ate, and ate, and ate. Didn't train a stitch (from Dec 26th-Jan 2nd) and man, that SUCKED. I didn't do any kind of exercise except for pushups when I thought about it... gained about 5 lbs over that week, and of