Taking on the Journey of a Kids Class

Three months ago I opened a new chapter in my book of Jiu-Jitsu experiences. I started the kids Jiu-Jitsu program at my gym and am the sole instructor. As a blue belt, starting this was a nerve racking task. Not only did I doubted myself, but I wasn't sure where to begin. With the reassurance…

Injury

The most frustrating part of Jiu Jitsu I have experienced so far is being injured and forced off the mat. In my last tournament the ref missed my tap to a belly down arm bar and it caused a hyper-extended elbow and a partial UCL tear in my elbow. If being injured has made me…

coach

Jiu-Jitsu is a sport of lineage and tradition. Skills and knowledge have been passed down from teacher to student for many generations. Without all of the amazing professors, instructors, teachers, and coaches of this art, it would no longer exist. My instructor in particular has effected my life in so many different ways and I…

Fight to Keep Integrity in Jiu Jitsu

With all of the media hype around the McGregor V. Mayweather fight right now, questioning of the future of mixed martial arts and other combat sports is starting to happen. This is due to the recent popularity in vulgar, hostile press conferences accompanied with object throwing and personal attacks, that have nothing to do with…

Refresh Yourself to Focus on the Fight

A new adventure awaits Friday as I step on an airplane and head to Florida. This years two week family vacation is doubling as a camp. When I get back I will have  just a few days before my next jiu-jitsu tournament in Chicago, Illinois, where I will be competing for the second time. I'm…

Mindset

As I'm 5 weeks out from my next tournament I'm beginning to get into my competition mindset and routine. My diet plan has changed, my workout schedule has changed, and my mindset has definitely changed. Mindset is huge in combat sports. If your mind is in the wrong place before and especially during a match, you…

Every time we get in our cars and drive to our gyms we take it for granted that we don't have to fear driving down the roads, that we aren't in armored jeeps going through the desert. Every time we roll on the mats we take it for granted that we aren't actually fighting for…

Thank You Moms For Helping Us With Jiu-Jitsu

The name Mom has many titles. Caregiver, friend, nurse, cook, and supporter are just a few. Moms have a tough job. Jiu-Jitsu moms have an even tougher job. From driving back and fourth to the gym multiple times a week, preparing food for tournaments, taking pictures at testings, and most importantly supporting her favorite athlete…

The Top 5 Reasons for Starting Jiu-Jitsu

It's hard to know when or if you should join a new activity, especially when its something that isn't very ordinary. Although Jiu-Jitsu isn't common, here are my top 5 reasons why you should join. Self Defense Many people have claimed that Jiu-Jitsu is one of the best forms of self defense for women. As…