“Always remember that arguing and winning is breaking the reality of the person you are arguing with. It is painful to lose your reality, so be kind, even if you are right.”
Murakami “Always remember that arguing and winning is breaking the reality of the person you are arguing with. It is painful to lose your reality, so be kind, even if you are right.”
Haruki
Haruki Murakami
Idon't wake up every morning thinking I'm the best; I'm not a paragon of virtue, so I find it very difficult to teach anything. When I take the stage, I never think I'm standing at a pulpit; I don't have a lectern to prop up my sacred texts, because I believe that paper can support anything, and I hate the very idea of giving sermons. If you have to choose between black and white, long live the shades of gray! I like to share sincerely, within my limits; but telling what I know doesn't mean I know everything. I believe in the goodness of consistency and example, even when you're wrong, I respect it. Never in the imposition of closed systems, nor in the arrogance of those who think they are better or in possession of the truth.
Teaching is an act of generosity, yes, but this is completely incompatible with suspicion, the fear that one day you will no longer be needed or that you will be surpassed. We all have enough to deal with in our own lives without messing with other people's!
Teaching should be approached as the godfather said, “it's not personal, it's business.” Is killing stupidity an act of charity? Where are the limits? For me, the answer is obvious: when you try to impose your worldview in a self-serving and convenient way, you're going to end up with your face in your own shit. It's never been a good idea to shit where you eat...
All knowledge, if you're not careful, becomes a yardstick for virtues and defects, moralizing and determinism, and ultimately, inevitably, an instrument of control over others. I have enough trouble controlling myself! I don't need to tell others what to do with theirs.
A teacher should be a reference point, someone capable of awakening you by shining light on the darkness of your ignorance, but never a guru on whom you end up hanging, whether out of love or fear. Demanding obeisance, servitude, or devotion is like pissing outside the pot; it's one thing to keep up appearances, but quite another to make those appearances your actual content.
The problem with organizing groups is that they are subject to social rules and well-studied impulses, where the need to relieve tension ends up prevailing. There is a tribe in Africa that always deals with this need for entropy in the same way: when the atmosphere is tense, they first spread the word that the “Tuc Tuc” is coming, so that the frightened people immediately hide in their houses, suspicious; but invariably, one day, the Tuc Tuc arrives at the beach in a boat, hidden behind its mask, and the whole village is forced to attend the event. Once there, the Tuc Tuc unleashes a barrage of blows left and right. Those who can take it go home, while the old folks go with the Tuc Tuc to eat the tribe's protein reserves in a hut specially prepared for the occasion, feasting on the best food, all washed down with fermented drinks until they can't take any more. In conclusion: peace is restored, bad moods and miseries are released, and life goes on until... inevitably, the Tuc Tuc has to return.
Periodically, groups need to relieve their entropy, whether through purges, scapegoats, or manu militari... Even Jesus needed his Judas for his project to work!
Maybe it's my social phobia, or maybe I love myself too much, but getting beaten up doesn't really do it for me. When I was younger, because a man is a man, I would put up with whatever the boss ordered, and if I had to run 13 kilometers, well, there I went, running my guts out. There was a nice trophy at the end and a strong desire for it to lead somewhere; anyway, it was better than not having anywhere to go. Young people need purpose and goals, challenges to navigate their uncertainties; old people prefer to embrace them without suffering, because that comes as standard.
I never completely lost my judgment, not even in those heroic times! After all, if something got the better of me, the extra hormones quickly solved the problem: I jerked off and that put everything else into perspective. That's youth for you... but when your horizon is more Thanatos than Eros, things are different (without ruling out the former... Viagra exists!).
Believing yourself to be the bearer of the flame of truth must have its charm, because there are quite a few who sign up for it, even knowing that it means being sacrificed on the altar. I don't like playing the martyr, nor do I believe those who present themselves as such, so I find it hard to swallow their sacrifice; on the contrary, I am repulsed by the ordeal of blame, gossip and recriminations, which tire and annoy me with their stench of ego, as if everyday life weren't bad enough. As much as I hate the stance of these pseudo-martyrs, the bad thing is that, over time, you grow fond of them, and like the pig that is to be slaughtered for San Martín, you see the knife that will bleed them dry (often self-inflicted) and you know, with absolute certainty, that there's nothing you can do and that if you get in the way, you're sure to get a couple of slashes as a gift.
But one's condition is what it is, and it seems that, like a goat returns to the mountain, my thing is to get myself tangled up in such endeavors over and over again. It's a shitty condition, and the only consolation is being able to say, “Others will come who will do me good.”
Clumsy, long-suffering, and hard-working is my fortune; searching for treasures in the depths, digging with my hands where others see only manure; looking for diamonds in madhouses, in the heights where there is no oxygen, or in the abysses where the pressure crushes you.
The worst thing is that, incredible as it may seem, I always go and find them. So... How the hell can one change? What a mess...
Judas Iscariot
“Believing oneself to be the bearer of the flame of truth must have its charm, because there are many who sign up for the role, even knowing that it means being sacrificed on the altar.”
Enrique de Vicente interview to
Shidoshi Alfredo Tucci on his youtube channel about Ebunto Japanese Shamanism of the indigenous people of Japan
Enrique de Vicente interview to Shidoshi Alfredo Tucci on his youtube channel about Ebunto Japanese Shamanism of the indigenous people of Japan
Career as a Martial Arts Instructor? Sascha de Vries makes it possible
What began as a leisure activity is now a profession with a future: being a martial arts instructor means teaching children, imparting values, and combining exercise, purpose, and personal development on a daily basis. From hobby to profession and from profession to way of life. Just over 15 years ago, this was unthinkable: there were hardly any professional martial arts schools, and training usually took place in clubs or nonprofit organizations for a few dollars a month. Today, professional schools charge membership fees of over $100 per month and offer sound educational concepts, career opportunities, and secure jobs in return.
Career as a Martial Arts Instructor?
Career as a Martial Arts Instructor?
Sascha de Vries makes it possible
Sascha de Vries makes it possible
A pioneer of this development is Sascha de Vries, now 49 years old. The founder of Karate Fachsportschulen (Karate Specialized Sports Schools) can look back on an impressive career: he served in a special unit of the military police for twelve years, most recently as head and state-certified close combat and arrest instructor. He then started his own business with the aim of establishing martial arts as a systematic profession. De Vries was the first provider in Germany to offer both state-recognized vocational training and a degree in martial arts. Those who choose this path spend their days on the mat and attend vocational school or a technical college on certain days. This model is also attracting interest internationally: applicants from abroad can train in Germany and later set up their own school or chain in their home country with the support of the Karate Fachsportschulen.
2. The vision what makes the Karate Fachsportschulen special
“If you think something is impossible, look for a way to make it possible.”
This quote from Bruce Lee not only shapes Sascha de Vries' life, but has also become the philosophy of his company.
Hardly anyone embodies the complexity of martial arts as comprehensively as he does: from white belt to trainer and competitor, from referee to tournament organizer, from close combat instructor in the military police to entrepreneur. Hundreds of tournament appearances and national and international successes mark his career. But anyone who talks to the two-time world champion (ISKA) quickly realizes that for de Vries, martial arts is not a profession it is his identity.
His biography will be featured in detail in an upcoming issue of this magazine. We will also find out which masters have influenced Sascha de Vries, which martial arts he has learned himself, which international greats and celebrities from the world of martial arts he has already had the privilege of meeting in person and exactly what tasks he performed in the military police. Perhaps even which events he has attended and recommends. We will also get a glimpse of his new company headquarters, which covers around 2000 square meters. This report provides deeper insights into his career. The focus here is on his career system.
De Vries combines structure and sporting integrity shaped by twelve years of military leadership and the award of the World Fairness Medal at the IBF World Championships in 2000. His leadership style is clear, appreciative, and consistent.
Career as a Martial Arts Instructor?
Career as a Martial Arts Instructor?
Sascha de Vries makes it possible
Sascha de Vries makes it possible
He is in demand internationally: he appears worldwide as a keynote speaker this year alone at Australia's largest martial arts business event, in the USA, Germany, the Czech Republic, and, for the first time, at the Martial Arts Super Show in Europe. His topics include psychology and science in martial arts schools—whether in teaching, self-defense, marketing, or human resources development—as well as didactics and child-friendly systems.
As a martial artist, his skills and expertise with nunchaku and tonfa weapons are in demand worldwide, as is his experience in military and police tactics.
Ten more locations are to be established by 2030, both nationally and internationally. The focus is on an educational concept for children of kindergarten and elementary school age. The main areas of emphasis are safety, character building, and age-appropriate exercise a concept that has long been copied many times over.
Question:
Sascha, your international network is impressive. But what is the situation in Germany?
Answer:
Within Germany, I have been able to build genuine friendships over several decades with people who are more than just business partners, some of whom I have competed against in many tournaments. We have developed projects together, discussed ideas, and engaged in verbal sparring always on equal terms. Many of them are now at the absolute forefront of the industry they run some of the most successful martial arts schools in Germany.
I feel particularly connected to the co-founders of the Professional Association for Martial Arts Schools in Germany: Jens Richter, Thomas Geiger, Tobias Warzel, Ertekin Arslan, Stefan Roitner, and Markus Schinhammer.
I also have a long history with Toni Dietl, the founder of the Kampfkunstkollegium Deutschland (Martial Arts College of Germany).
Both organizations consciously invest in the future of martial arts, promote the well-being of martial arts schools both nationally and internationally and provide important impetus for innovation in the industry. It is important to me to support this work.
These friendships are a valuable part of my development. I am proud of this network and grateful for the honest exchange over the years.
Interview excerpt International mentors, speaker experiences & family
Question:
You are also in demand internationally as a keynote speaker. Were there people who had a particular influence on you?
Answer:
I was very fortunate to come into contact with impressive people from the international martial arts world at an early age many of whom are now friends. Zulfi Ahmed, Dave Kovar, Roland Osborne, Grandmaster Clark, Fred and Robin De Palma, but also Brannon Beliso and I have supported each other.
We learned a lot about child education from Melody Johnson.
Career as a Martial Arts Instructor?
Career as a Martial Arts Instructor?
Sascha de Vries makes it possible
Sascha de Vries makes it possible
In terms of fighting technique, I was inspired by Dan Inosanto I will never forget his seminars.
All these people played a part in enabling me to be part of this international scene today, as a seminar leader, keynote speaker, and system developer. And I am happy to give something back to the industry because I know how much mentors can give you and how they can change your life!
At that time, it was still unusual in Germany to see martial arts as a viable career option. Much of it was done on a voluntary basis. The first impetus for professionalization came around 2006/2007, partly through the work of Stefan Billen, who highlighted international perspectives. I was already active as a speaker at his events at that time and was able to make important contacts. That was the beginning... And I was never alone in all of this.
After the death of my wife and the mother of my three children in 2011, it was my family who gave me strength, especially: My mother, who always believed in me and was always there for me
Anika (deputy managing director), who has supported me professionally and personally for years, and Kamila my love, my life partner, who has my back and accompanies me on every step of the way. I am truly grateful for all of this.
Two examples show how diverse a career in martial arts can be: Alina started as a student and now heads the central department for recruiting, onboarding, and employee training—she brings structure and creativity and contributes significantly to the positive team atmosphere. Anika was previously a hairdresser and geriatric nurse. She started as a mini-jobber at the karate schools, took countless training courses, and is now deputy managing director, ensuring that day-to-day operations run smoothly with over 60 employees. “Without her, nothing would work here,” says de Vries.
A typical working day often begins with organization: certificates, appointments, exams, communication. Advertising measures, holiday care, and in-house training are also part of the job. The second half of the day is devoted to teaching around four children's courses per day, later independently. Those who already have a black belt can also teach teenagers or adults after a period of training.
With growing experience come responsibility and creative freedom: trainees are supervised, timetables are developed, exams are conducted, and teams are managed. Strategic meetings, internal statistics analysis, and quality assurance are also part of the job.
At headquarters, senior employees lead small teams, manage departments, coordinate cross-location projects, and actively shape further development. Those who wish to do so can start as assistant trainers while still in school. Career changers with a heart for children are also welcome.
Note for international readers:
The dual vocational training system is a model established in Germany that combines practical work in a company with theoretical instruction at a vocational school. Trainees (Auszubildende) receive a training salary from day one, which is usually around 3050% of the starting salary of a fully trained specialist.
In return, companies have the opportunity to integrate young talent at an early stage, provide them with practical training, and prepare them specifically for future tasks. Once the training is complete, both responsibility and salary increase significantly.
This model is internationally recognized as exemplary for its quality, systematic approach, and sustainability in professional development.
Alina Head of Recruiting / Onboarding / Employee Training
Career as a Martial Arts Instructor?
Career as a Martial Arts Instructor?
Sascha de Vries makes it possible
Sascha de Vries makes it possible
State recognized training occupations with martial arts instructors Activities:
Sports specialist
Sports and fitness salesperson
Dual study programs (bachelor's/master's) with martial arts instructor Activities:
Fitness economics
Health management
Sports and exercise therapy
Early childhood education
Prevention and health management
Sports management
Other state recognized training occupations in karate schools:
Dialogue marketing specialist
Office management assistant
Digital and print media designer
E-commerce specialist
Other dual study programs at karate schools:
Human resources management
Marketing
Online marketing
Business psychology
Type of instruction:
Part-time, digitally supported, through partner universities of applied sciences. Can be combined with teaching at a school.
The career ladder at karate schools is clearly structured and practical: Assistant trainer Trainee / student Specialist (with degree) Specialist with vocational trainer qualification Branch manager
District manager Department head (e.g., recruiting, marketing, education)
Those who want to start their own business have the opportunity to join as a licensee or franchisee with professional support from the central team.
Secure, fairly paid jobs are rare in the sports and fitness industry. Karate Fachsportschulen is deliberately setting an example:
Above-average training remuneration, transparent salary scales, bonus models, rail and fuel vouchers as well as
company cars in selected positions, which may also be used privately.
Planning security and personal development are the focus.
Part-time models for young parents, for example round off the package.
Those who perform well and take on responsibility can look forward to long term, stable prospects.
Examples such as Khairi (Tunisia) and Wazhma (Afghanistan) show that Those who work hard, learn German, and share our educational values can successfully establish themselves in Germany even to the point of managing their own branch.
A valid residence permit and German language skills at least at B2 level are required. The structured training system is particularly supportive in combination with clear development paths, practical work, and an appreciative team environment.
Career as a Martial Arts Instructor?
Sascha de Vries makes it possible Career as a Martial Arts Instructor? Sascha de Vries makes it possible
The focus is not on athletic competition, but on the child.
Core values such as respect, discipline, helpfulness, and self-control are taught. In addition, topics such as violence prevention, social integration, age-appropriate physical activity, and building self-confidence are covered.
The teaching concepts are based on modern, child-friendly pedagogy: clear structures, positive leadership, and motivating language.
The overarching goal: to make children strong for life. For a happy, safe, and self-confident life on and off the mat.
From left to right: Sascha, Anika (Deputy Managing Director), Manuel (Dual Student Marketing) Strategic Meeting
All locations work according to clear, uniform standards from teaching methods to room design and quality assurance.
A central component is collegial consultation, supplemented by video analysis, a digital learning system, and practical training courses. This creates a continuous exchange that is open, reflective, and growthoriented.
Ideas and experiences from everyday life flow directly into the further development of the system.
What appears professional and well thought-out today is the result of many years of learning, perseverance, change, and growth.
The team at Karate Fachsportschulen is diverse, motivated, and brings together people from very different stages of life and backgrounds from young assistant trainers and career changers to experienced managers.
What connects them all is a passion for value-oriented teaching, team spirit, and the goal of making children strong for life.
Regular team events, further training, courses with international masters, and joint activities such as a trip to the cinema to see the film Karate Kid Legend strengthen the team spirit. Many also use the training rooms privately, which has resulted in real training communities.
Karate Fachsportschulen consciously invests in the further development of its employees: seminar fees and exams are covered, specializations are encouraged, and international training trips are supported.
The result: a working environment that promotes personal development and fosters a sense of community.
· 12 schools
· +1 franchise location
· over 60 active employees
· Around 1,440 applications per year
· Over 3,600 active students per week
· 94% recommendation rate among parents
· Ø 4.9 stars on Google
· Awards:Best Training Company, Top Company, Best Teaching Team
12. Portraits Faces of Success
JULIUS (23)
3rd Dan Kempo Karate
Student of Sascha de Vries since 2008
Bachelor's degree in Fitness Economics (2024)
Vocational trainer (2024)
Now branch manager in Cologne
"I started karate when I was a little boy. Following my passion, I began training as a group assistant when I was a teenager. This year, I am celebrating my 17th anniversary as a student and my 5th anniversary as an employee. After completing my studies at the Karate Fachsportschulen, earning my 3rd dan, and participating in numerous seminars in London and internal training courses, I now manage the Cologne branch and also teach one additional day in a neighboring district."
Career as a Martial Arts Instructor?
Career as a Martial Arts Instructor?
Sascha de Vries makes it possible
Sascha de Vries makes it possible
JAKUB (27)
2nd dan karate & kickboxing
Started in 2017 (internship),
Sports specialist (2020)
Vocational trainer (2021)
Now branch manager in Neuss
"At Karate Fachsportschulen, I turned my passion into my profession. Over the years, I have had the privilege of getting to know many wonderful people both students and other karate instructors. I have developed my enthusiasm for martial arts and achieved 1st dan in karate and 2nd dan in kickboxing. It was an honor to meet various grandmasters, for example on our team trip to London. I am grateful for the opportunities that Karate Fachsportschulen offers me and look forward to continuing to share my experience and knowledge with others."
MICHAEL (30)
2nd Dan Karate
Start of training (2013)
Sports specialist (2016)
Vocational trainer (2017)
Now expansion manager at Karate Fachsportschulen and first licensee with his own licensed dojo
“After my training, I first managed one of our branches and gained valuable experience there. Today, I am jointly responsible for sales for all our schools. Karate Fachsportschulen offers real career opportunities, supports further training such as professional trainer training or further education in London, and the strong team spirit makes work a pleasure every day.”
ANIKA (44)
Hairdresser (2002)
Started at Karate Fachsportschulen in 2012 (part-time job),
Geriatric nurse (2012)
Full-time at Karate Fachsportschulen (2014)
Sports specialist / sports and fitness saleswoman / office management assistant (2014)
Anika deputy boss & manuel marketing department
KHAIRI (31)
2nd Dan Karate
Vocational trainer (2014)
Now deputy managing director
“As a manager at Karate Fachsportschulen, I can look back on a successful career path where I have been continuously supported and have grown. I really appreciate working in a dynamic environment where I can continuously develop and apply my skills and not just provide young people with advice and support.”
ALINA (27)
Karate 1st dan, taekwondo 2nd dan
Start of studies (2016)
Bachelor's degree in fitness economics (2019)
Branch manager (since 2018)
Master's degree in prevention and health management (2021)
Vocational trainer (2020)
Now Head of Recruiting, Onboarding, and Employee Training
“I started as a student. Now I'm a permanent member of the team with a master's degree and I manage my own department. If you show commitment, you get noticed and can really grow here both professionally and personally. The fact that my boss helped me build this career path makes it all the more special.”
NICKLAS (24)
Start of training as an office management assistant (2023)
“My training at the Karate Fachsportschule is very varied and practical I learn new processes and connections every day. A particular highlight was a training course in San Diego, where I was able to take part in seminars with international education experts.”
SARAH (29)
Start of training (2015)
Sports and fitness saleswoman since (2018)
Vocational trainer since (2021)
Now branch manager in Bedburg
“I completed my training as a sports and fitness management assistant and then went on to obtain my trainer certification. I also became branch manager in Bedburg and am responsible for members and employees. It has helped me grow with my responsibilities.”
Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Sports Science (Tunisia)
Former assistant coach to the national coach in Tunisia
Joined Karate Fachsportschulen after arriving in Germany (2022)
Now branch manager in Grevenbroich
“I started at the Karate Fachsportschulen with Sascha de Vries as a martial arts instructor. Today, I manage my own branch. If you show commitment, you get real career opportunities here: from trainer to manager, with further training such as vocational training as a professional instructor or international courses in London. For dedicated martial artists and martial arts instructors, this is the perfect place to turn your passion into a career.”
Career as a Martial Arts Instructor?
Career as a Martial Arts Instructor?
Sascha de Vries makes it possible
Sascha de Vries makes it possible
The Karate Fachsportschulen stand for modern, value-oriented training in martial arts with clear career paths, high educational standards, and international connections. If you want to get involved, make children strong for life, and grow yourself in the process, this is the right place for you.
We are looking for personalities, not perfection. Whether you have a background in education, are a career changer, a university graduate, or an experienced martial artist: if you want to develop yourself further and enjoy helping others, you are very welcome.
“Knowing is not enough, we must apply. Willing is not enough, we must do.”
Bruce Lee
Further information & applications: www.fachsportschule.de/karriere karriere@fachsportschule.de
Just moved in, but still without outdoor advertising! The new headquarters of the Karate Sports Schools is being built here, covering over 2100 square meters. With its own recruiting and training department, video studio, call center, three meeting rooms, over 50 parking spaces, a barbecue area for Team 3, and much more. Unique in the martial arts world!
In recent years Muay Lert Rit went from total oblivion to being one of the fastest growing fighting arts. Based on ancient Siamese military strategies and close combat techniques, Lert Rit is now ranked among the world’s “deadliest martial arts” by many bloggers and martial artists. The updated version of the ancient combative art that is practiced in all IMBA branches worldwide is raising the interest of self-defence fans for its undeniable efficiency. However, while it seems to be a males’ favourite system, the same cannot yet be said for female practitioners. In fact, the percentage of women involved in Lert Rit is still low, compared to the males’ numbers. In my opinion Muay Lert Rit is a martial art that perfectly suits the self-defence needs of female practitioners for technical and structural reasons. I have been helped to focus the following essential points by one of the leading IMBA’s female teachers, Arjarn Marika Vallone: understanding the female point of view is very difficult for a man, therefore I am a firm believer is sharing thoughts with female practitioners. This kind of brain storming is priceless in order to open a male Muay Boran/Lert Rit instructor’s mind thus helping him to grow and become a much better martial artist and teacher. After all, when confronted by a bigger and stronger opponent, a male fighter is exactly in the same condition of physical inferiority a woman faces all the time. Learning to analyse combat situations from a woman’s perspective will make a male practitioner more objective and his fighting techniques more effective. Let’s see the 4 main reasons why Lert Rit is a perfect Martial Art for women.
Point 1: Muay Lert Rit is based on instinctive movements, not on artificial techniques. Most of IMBA Muay Lert Rit’s offensive and defensive techniques are classified according to the type of Energy Movement that they derive from: each body gesture can be "polished" in order to express your psychophysical energy with maximum effectiveness by making it usable for combat purposes. In-depth studies of the most instinctive gestures (Gross Motor Skills), that can be easily implemented even if someone is exposed to intense stress and the resulting adrenaline rush, have shown that such actions result from a limited number of energy usages. Through a careful process of selection and rationalization, such movements have naturally been transformed into gestures aimed at expressing explosive attacks or defences. The result of this analysis has given rise to eight Basic Energy Principles, which in turn, fluidly combined, produce an almost infinite number of combat actions. Remembering the right technique for the right situation is not possible: however, when the body has assimilated how to instinctively use the correct energy pattern to counter a given threat, it will react without conscious thought, making the defence quick, aggressive and efficient.
Point 2: Muay Lert Rit is not based on muscle strength but it relies on “battle energy”. According to Siamese tradition the special kind of energy that comes into play in all-out combat is called Phalang Yuth (battle energy). Because of its great power, the keys to its development have been regarded for centuries as a secret to be kept hidden. Compared to Gam Lang or muscle energy, Phalang Yuth is much harder to define and difficult to develop. However, training the muscles without caring for Phalang Yuth is not a wise choice. For these reasons, one of the fundamental tasks of a good IMBA Lert Rit instructor is to train his students to understand the Art’s eight Energy Principles and to practice them daily. Through a series of simple exercises executed regularly with or without hand weights or otherwise employing specific apparatus (iron bars, heavy clubs, wooden rings and the like), a Lert Rit fighter’s “battle energy” may be increased drastically. Most of the times women are attacked by males who are obviously stronger than they are. Phalang Yuth can be the “equalizer” that make the defender’s strikes capable of hurting an aggressor that is superior in terms of mass and physical strenght.
Point 3: all Muay Lert Rit students learn since lesson 1 to aim their strikes exclusively at the opponent’s vital points. The study of sensitive or vital points is of utmost importance for the effectiveness of the attacks executed against an opponent. Any strike (carried out with a properly conditioned natural weapon) that attains a vital point produces an enormously greater effect than an equivalent one that is thrown against a less sensitive body area. Knowing the location of these points is also very important in order to be able to properly neutralize attacks carried out against one of them. Muay Lert Rit is a fighting style based on short range striking as a primary combat strategy: each short range blow must be aimed at a specific weak point to maximize its effect. Through knowledge of anatomy and physiology a good fighter can better render an opponent helpless by interfering with one of the following body systems:
-Nervous system
-Breathing system
-Bone system
-Muscle system
-Skin system
It is also true that the mere theoretical knowledge of a large number of vital points that are very difficult to reach in the chaos of a real confrontation is virtually useless: this is especially true if the opponent is dressed in heavy and stuffed clothes (for example for particularly severe climatic conditions). IMBA Lert Rit’s extremely practical approach consists in identifying a very limited number of easily reachable targets that guarantee the success of offensive actions and then continuously train to reach those points with any kind of technique and natural weapon used. A physically weaker woman can actually hurt or maim a stronger aggressor by focusing her (battle) energy-powered strikes on the attacker’s main weak points: when the fury of a female Lert Rit student is unleashed it can produce serious damage to the over confident and careless male attacker.
Point 4: Muay Lert Rit practice builds self-confidence.
In the words of Anni Paavilainen: “Practicing Muay Boran (and Lert Rit) has brought me a lot of self-confidence and belief in my skills which applies also outside the gym in everyday life. I have crossed my boundaries so many times that I didn’t know would be possible in just two years. This has enhanced my confidence not only in sports but in many different areas, too. I feel like I have employed the spirit of the art in many things that I do on a daily basis from relationships to studies and work etc. Maybe this is the beginning of finding the mystical balance that martial arts seems to create in their practitioners.”
Maritza Gamboa wrote in one of his articles: “As members of IMBA Warrior Ladies, our goal is to form ourselves as warriors in life and that is only achieved with daily practice, with constant training and with our own individual improvement.”
Special thanks to the following IMBAWarrior Ladies’ board of directors members:
•Marika Vallone (IMBA Italia)
•Maritza Gamboa (IMBA Colombia)
•Maria Quaglia (IMBA Australia)
•Anni Paavilanen Warnicki (IMBA Finland)
Suggested readings:
• For the women of Colombia by Maritza Gamboa https://www.muaythai.it/for-the-women-of-colombia/
• How my prejudice against martial arts disappeared by Anni Paavilainen http://www.muaythai.it/how-my-prejudice-againstmartial-arts-disappeared/
• IMBA Warrior Ladies by Maritza Gamboa http://www.muaythai.it/imba-warrior-ladies/
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Aite no nai kenka wa dekinu. (A fight without an opponent cannot be carried out) Traditional Jujutsu, known as Koryu, belongs to the ancient and classical forms of Japanese culture. However, the term Koryu is not used exclusively for martial arts. Although there have been and still are many “Ryu-ha” or Japanese combat systems, there are characteristics common to most of them. Strong, violent, objective... Perhaps this part of Bugei Juhappan, which became known as Jujutsu, carries in its classic storyline a strong and sustainable weapon of war. Those who practice techniques related to classical Jujutsu can perceive in its rustic form a functional characteristic for everyday situations experienced during the Middle Ages.
Contrary to Yoroi Kumiuchi or Kumiuchi, when practiced without armor, Jujutsu has in its set of mandatory forms, or more literally translated, established formsSeiteigata. These techniques were developed for when samurai were attacked during their daily lives while wearing their normal attire. Thus, for many, the techniques of Jujutsu were associated solely with self-defense.
The form practiced in Bugei Juhapan should be quick and direct when referring to the aggressor's first attack, that is, among the techniques developed for Jujutsu, the reasoning that the samurai would always be attacked at any moment was preserved.
It is possible to see through the various Heihō (translated as “method of the soldier”) that in most cases the attacker used situations that were common at the time when it was developed, differing greatly from the form developed by Jigoro Kano, later returning to being called Jujutsu and, consequently, after arriving in Brazil, “Gracie Jiu-Jitsu.” and now “Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.” Thus, one can clearly see a difference in the forms applied, even though they are similar between ancient Jujutsu and contemporary Jiu-Jitsu.
Much is asked and questioned about its functionality in a real situation, but it is worth noting that any technique can be easily adapted to imminent situations, since the practice of kakuto no Bujutsu – the real form of combat – was required by most schools.
Some more focused schools taught their students to attack the yin side of the body, establishing unconventional forms such as squeezing nipples, testicles, tearing cheeks, pulling ears, dislocating ribs, and even pulling out the opponent's tongue with their hands.
The forms studied in Katame no Gikō have a special scoring system that differs from the forms learned in Tachi no Gikō. Thus, it is understood that the classical forms aim to recreate the thinking and direction of warfare at the time.
There are several versions of the origin of Japanese Jujutsu. One came from India, another from the Japanese Indians (Ainu), and another through the refinement of techniques that were remnants of these two sources. Some masters claim that Jujutsu is the father of all martial arts in Japan.
Every lineage of Japanese Jujutsu must have documents proving, through the respective names of the Soke throughout history, a family tree and all the Seiteigata practiced. In general, the most commonly used type of documentation is the makimono. Other cultural indicators can be used to recognize the traditional characteristics of a school lineage, including:
As mentioned above, Jujutsu training is imbued with an atmosphere of courtesy and respect, with texts that aim to help cultivate the appropriate Kokoro (heart). The type of training uniform generally characteristic of certain ryu consists of a white Wagi with a dark Hakama, with most color variations ranging from white to black, emphasizing the colors indigo and gray, as long as they do not have Western designs or creations such as camouflage, etc.
An apparent simplicity that dispenses with ostentation in any aspect is characteristic of Japanese ryu. Within the documentation, the use of the ideogram “Den” is always apparent and constant: Shoden, Chuden, Okuden, Menkyo kaiden.
Although appearances are somewhat contradictory today, there is a similarity between the techniques presented by certain Ryu-ha schools. Within the correct tradition, students must first learn the basic forms and only then use them in free attacks. Most of the forms known as Seiteigata feature striking characteristics of everyday life at the time.
It is important to start from the point of view that most traditional “Ryu” emphasize the use of “atemi” as an important tool for completing their movements and sequences, which always end with technical peculiarities corresponding to Nage, Kansetsu, shime, Kudaki, etc.
Without a doubt, combat techniques involving grappling have been around in Japan for much longer than we can imagine. The first references to such unarmed combat arts or systems can be found in historical records, the oldest of which are found in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan), which relate the mythological creation of the country and the establishment of the Imperial family.
Other brief references can be found in older records and engravings depicting sumai or sumo. These unarmed combat systems became known as jujutsu, among other related terms, during the Muromachi period (1333-1568), according to the documentation of various ryu-ha and historical records.
Various methods were developed to neutralize and destroy the opponent with maximum efficiency. Basic methods of attack and striking and grabbing techniques, from a body protection standpoint, were contrary to those of Kumiuchi, which aimed at direct attack against an enemy wearing Yoroi armor. Among the basic forms of defense, various schools developed specific techniques for punching, kicking, kneeing, elbowing, strangling, twisting, and a number of other distinctive features for use on the battlefield.
From a broader perspective, based on the curriculum of many of the classical Japanese arts, however, these arts more accurately defined techniques against an armed opponent. Methods were developed to disarm them with maximum efficiency, such as the use of characteristic weapons such as the jutte, tanto, or kakushi buki, and others, to defeat the enemy in potentially more dangerous attacks. In addition, certain ryu of jujutsu also developed forms of confrontation against enemies carrying long weapons.
Such techniques can generally be characterized as Sengoku Jidai (1467-1568) or Edo Jidai (16001868). It is worth noting that during this period, many of these techniques were performed in the normal street clothing of the period: kimono and hakama.
Although these arts were generally referred to as “jujutsu,” there were many different names for these types of techniques and tactics, ranging from ryu to ryu - Hade, hakuda, jujutsu, kenpo (Sekiguchi-ryu, Araki-ryu, Seigo-ryu), koppo, kogusoku, and koshi no mawari (Takenouchi-ryu and Yagyu Shingan-ryu), kowami, kumiuchi, shubaku, tode, torite, yawara [jutsu] (Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto-ryu, Tatsumi-ryu, and Shosho-ryu), and yoroi kumiuchi (Yagyu Shingan-ryu).
In some traditions, such as Takenouchiryu and Yagyu Shingan-ryu, more than one term was used to refer to the separate parts of their curriculum. Each of these words denotes systems with different contents or characteristics of various techniques.
Although several methods already exist, each based on its own experience, forms and nomenclatures have been determined that have taken on secondary characteristics such as Ryu.
For years, as a Brazilian, I have only had visual knowledge of the practices related to “Brazilian Jiu-jitsu,” without ever having had the opportunity to experience this art and its methods.
I recently had the pleasure of meeting Professor Luis Felipe Martins, from the old school, who has greatly enlightened my observations on the nuances and derivations of what has become a worldwide phenomenon. I leave you with the person who I believe is more than qualified to speak on the subject, given his seriousness and more than 30 years of experience.
The history of Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil is deeply linked to the Gracie family, who adapted and developed the original Japanese style to create what we now call Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). Here is a summary of this journey:
Jiu-Jitsu is a traditional Japanese martial art that developed centuries ago, focusing on leverage, immobilization, choking, and submission techniques—especially effective in hand-to-hand combat.
In 1914, Japanese master Mitsuyo Maeda, also known as “Count Koma,” arrived in Brazil as part of a world tour of martial arts demonstrations. Maeda settled in Belém do Pará and, in 1917, began teaching Jiu-Jitsu to Carlos Gracie, the son of a local politician.
Carlos taught the art to his brothers, especially Hélio Gracie, who was physically weaker and therefore adapted the techniques to rely more on leverage and technique than brute strength. This adaptation gave rise to Brazilian JiuJitsu, a more refined and strategic version of Japanese JiuJitsu.
The Gracie family became famous by launching the “Gracie Challenges,” where fighters from different styles were challenged to prove the effectiveness of BJJ. Over time, the art spread throughout Brazil, gaining strength in gyms, competitions, and even in vale tudo, the precursor to modern MMA.
In the 1990s, Royce Gracie demonstrated the efficiency of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu by defeating several opponents in the early days of the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship), bringing BJJ to the international stage. Today, Brazilian JiuJitsu is practiced around the world, with competitions, federations, and thousands of gyms dedicated to the art.
I graduated in Physical Education with a postgraduate degree in scientific training methodology. I began my martial arts studies with Jūdō at the age of five, where I remained until I was 20. In 1996, I made the transition to Brazilian Jiu-jitsu through Professor Maurício Amaral Martins, with whom I trained for four years.
In 2000, I moved to Blumenau, Santa Catarina, continuing my jiu-jitsu training and physical education studies until graduating in 2004. In 2007, an important year, I earned my black belt in jiu-jitsu under Professor André Marola.
An interesting point to note is that in 2004, while still a purple belt, I founded my own team called “Barão Jiu-Jitsu,” whose insignia and brand I still carry today, participating in various events around the world and training several Brazilian, Irish, and world champions.
Continuing my story, in 2013 I moved to Ireland—the city of Cork—continuing my work with jiu-jitsu until 2024, when, in order to further expand my legacy, I moved to Spain to start a new phase with different projects. Today, on my team, I have 18 black belts who represent me around the world.
I believe it is extremely important to know one's origins in order to understand the modern context. (On-ko) means to value the old, tradition; (Chi-shin) means to learn the new.
It literally means: Ask old questions and get new answers. In other words, to discover new things that we have not experienced, we must seek answers through history. This proverb, which has had a great impact on Japanese thinkers, was coined by the philosopher Confucius (Kung Fu Tsé).
It was my recent visit to Bulgaria which was truly amazing, characterized by the wonderful hospitality and friendship extended by my hosts in the city of Plovdiv. I was honored to welcome guests from Turkey and other countries who joined our training sessions led by Mitko Galabov and Pavel Mitev. Both are long-time masters in KAPAP and Krav Maga, as well as accomplished wrestling coaches who have taught worldwide. Beyond their impressive credentials, they are first and foremost amazing, kind human beings.
We were gifted by an incredible opportunity to share knowledge across various disciplines. We combined Brazilian JiuJitsu (BJJ) Machado techniques with Integrated Jiujutsu (IJJ), and mixed in elements of Sambo, Judo, Japanese and Israeli Jiujutsu. We even incorporated Sumo wrestling techniques into our training.
The Rich History and Varieties of Wrestling
Wrestling is a martial art, combat sport, and a form of entertainment involving grappling with an opponent to gain advantageous positions through various throws and techniques within specific rulesets. Wrestling encompasses numerous grappling-type techniques including clinch fighting, throws, takedowns, joint locks, pins, and other holds. Many wrestling techniques have been incorporated into various martial arts, combat sports, and military hand-to-hand systems.
Wrestling exists in many shapes and forms, with professional wrestling being the most widely recognized as a form of athletic theatre. Other legitimate competitive forms include Greco-Roman, freestyle, judo, sambo, folkstyle, catch, shoot, Luta livre, submission grappling, sumo, pehlwani, and Shuai jiao, among others.
This ancient sport was first documented in the Olympic Games during the 18th Olympiad in 708 BC. The term "wrestling" in Modern English originated from the late Old English term "wræstlunge." It carries with distinction to this day and in many an arena.
The rapid rise in popularity of mixed martial arts (MMA) has increased interest in wrestling due to its effectiveness against other martial arts. Many wrestling techniques have been specifically adapted for MMA, leading numerous martial arts gyms to offer MMA wrestling classes. Wrestling is now considered one of the primary disciplines in MMA alongside Brazilian jiu-jitsu, boxing, kickboxing/Muay Thai, and judo.
The octagon arena highlights the importance of Grappling as an essential component in a martial artist's toolkit. We can clearly see grappling prominence in MMA and the UFC competitions, where it has become a dominant skill alongside boxing and kickboxing in the arsenals of professional fighters.
The origins of today's gladiators come from many branches of the same tree. Shoot wrestling, a relative of catch and freestyle wrestling, formed the foundation of Shooto, a combat sport and pioneer MMA organization founded in 1985. Similarly, Pancrase, another influential MMA organization based on shoot wrestling, predates the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
Another aspect of our visit to Bulgaria involved VIP protection training, featuring walking formations demonstrated with Anelia Branca serving as our VIP model. Masters CDC and IJJ Georgi Genchev, Yasen Mihaylov, and Pavel Mitev contributed valuable insights from wrestling that can enhance walking formations and basic security and protection skills, while Master Mitko Galabov provided support during the demonstrations. It is not just their skill attained on the mats which spoke volumes but also their military careers.
Mitko Galabov has four decades of experience in several forms of martial arts. His base is the national sport of Bulgaria, wrestling followed by catch wrestling, western boxing as well as Mui Thai, Sambo, Judo and more. His goals have always been to learn what is applicable in real life situations for the purpose of self-defense.
Pavel Mitev is now an accomplished coach and competitor in both wrestling and Sumo. He graduated with a sports science degree in Sofia and has over two decades of experience learning and heading the wrestling club “Athletic”. He was a successful head coach of national teams in both Syria and Samoa and prepared athletes to the Olympic games.
Both these powerhouses of martial prowess kept looking for an edge of quality and here joins Avi Nardia to this tale. They began studying under Avi fifteen years ago and in time increased in volumes their knowledge and experience in the many martial paths Avi has experienced and is teaching to the serious practitioners.
In their own words: "We have been lucky having him as a Teacher and Friend, because Sensei Avi Nardia is one of the best and well-rounded Martial Artist of our time."
They have also been learning for over 15 years with Coach Pavel Mitev. one of the Best Wrestling coaches in Bulgaria and Sergey Atemin, a very renowned Kickbox and Muai Thai coach, and have been working to blending these Striking and grappling Martial arts Together and using them for self-defense.
At the end of the meeting, we returned to the gym to share more wrestling techniques, from warm-up exercises to advanced moves, including some Sumo techniques. I'm honored to write about this humble team for the first time in this article. All members carry impressive credentials, including European championships and worldwide experiences in various wrestling styles and martial arts. They exemplify how humble martial artists can be and serve as excellent role models for future generations
As the founder of Kapap/Krav Maga and IJJ (Integrated Jiujutsu), my professional life represents a continuous commitment to evolving and teaching these vital Israeli martial arts systems across the globe. My schedule exemplifies the growing international demand for authentic Israeli combat methodologies, with barely a moment's respite between my various responsibilities and teaching engagements.
My primary role involves serving as a supervisor for Vice Presidential protection details, where I apply the practical defensive tactics developed through decades of Israeli combat experience. This position demands the highest level of expertise in threat assessment, tactical response, and protective formations—skills that form the core of what I later teach to military and law enforcement professionals worldwide.
Upon completing my supervisory duties, I immediately embarked on a rigorous international teaching schedule that illustrates the global reach of Israeli martial arts systems:
Returning to the birthplace of Kapap and Krav Maga, I conducted intensive training sessions emphasizing the authentic roots and modern applications of these combat systems. These seminars attract elite military units, security professionals, and dedicated practitioners seeking to learn from the original source.
As one who first emphasized aggressive determination in the Krav Maga field, I explained how those never involved in its development now display aggression without proper skills—creating dangerous situations for defensive personnel. Many merely copy techniques from watching videos, attempting to demonstrate intensity without mastering fundamentals. This approach may impress the untrained eye, but experienced martial artists can easily spot technical flaws. It's concerning that Israeli martial arts have deviated from their original purpose, though I believe they will improve with time and proper study.
I've already heard troubling reports of an instructor accidentally shooting a student while demonstrating gun disarmament techniques with live weapons—something utterly prohibited in Israeli special forces training. While we cannot prevent all irresponsible actions, my Israel visit aimed to restore proper standards to Israeli martial arts while introducing IJJ principles.
At the dojo of Zdenek Dvorak, who teaches Karate and Kyushu, I led comprehensive training in practical self-defense methodologies adapted for European security contexts, with emphasis on vital points and IJJ. The Czech Republic has become an important hub for Israeli martial arts in Eastern Europe, with growing interest from both military and civilian sectors.
This specialized event represented a unique cross-disciplinary approach, bringing together sumo wrestlers, Olympic wrestlers, and my Israeli martial arts team. The collaboration created a valuable exchange of techniques from different combat traditions, demonstrating how Kapap/Krav Maga can integrate principles from diverse fighting systems. This cross-training approach exemplifies my philosophy that effective combat systems should continuously evolve by incorporating useful elements from various martial disciplines.
In Italy, I conducted dual-track seminars—one specifically tailored for Carabinieri (military police) and another designed for civilian self-defense. The Italian seminars highlight how Israeli Jujutsu, Kapap, Krav Maga, and Integrated Jujutsu can be adapted to different contexts while maintaining their core effectiveness. These seminars emphasize practical applications rather than ceremonial techniques, focusing on realistic threat scenarios.
The Italy workshop was organized by my Italian team coordinator Roberto Lerici, with significant support from Pier Paolo Ibba, a VIP protection and security expert who safeguards prominent actors and dignitaries visiting Italy and Venice. Pier Paolo is also a distinguished martial arts master.
On March 29-30, an international seminar was held in Sestri Levante with GM Avi Nardia and the National Staff of Avi Nardia Academy Italia. Italian Leaders Master Pier Paolo Ibba and Master Altin Qoku were present. The seminar, organized by Roberto Lerici (Instructor and Black Belt of the Avi Nardia Academy Italy), drew numerous participants including teachers and law enforcement professionals. Attendees expressed great satisfaction with the comprehensive training in close-contact knife techniques, firearm disarmament, and police tactics.
Master Altin Qoku
Credentials:
- 6th Dan white/blue belt with Avi Nardia Academy
- 4th Dan black belt in World Asian Defence with Didier Leclinche France
- 2nd Dan black belt in Karate
- Blue belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
- Representative for Italy Avi Nardia Academy
- Self-defense instructor teaching Kapap, Krav Maga, and Israeli Jiu Jitsu at Palestra Kennedy in Perugia since 2000
- Contact: qokualtin30@gmail.com
Christian Burde (Urban Krav Maga)
Christian traveled 1,000 km to join our training. At 53, he brings forty years of martial arts experience, with particular focus on Krav Maga. He has attended over 600 specialization courses across 19 countries including Israel, Germany, France, and many others. Through his Urban Krav Maga school, he has conducted seminars as an instructor in multiple countries.
The three-day intensive camp in Slovenia brought together approximately 200 students from the Netherlands, Germany, Malta, Serbia, USA, Slovenia, and the United Kingdom. As an eight-time full-contact champion, Sensei Gabor Rozsa shared combat-tested techniques and training methodologies. This multicultural gathering demonstrates the universal appeal of Israeli martial arts systems and creates a community of practitioners committed to realistic self-defense training.
Malta Team:
"For the 15th consecutive year, KAF Malta and I proudly joined the annual Spring Camp in Novo Mesto, Slovenia. My sincere thanks go to Shihan Borut Kincl for this enduring opportunity. He has fostered an exceptional community that truly feels like family. The impact made when we return back to Malta after the camp is amazing. We organize an Autumn camp in Gozo, Malta at the end of October, and the learning process is never-ending.
Year after year, the instruction and energy are consistently outstanding, a direct result of the instructors' professionalism. This year, Kyoshi Avi Nardia shared his Jujitsu expertise, expertly linking its concepts to stand-up fighting, particularly Karate. Sensei Gabor Rozsa focused on enhancing strikes through proper body mechanics and posture, emphasizing grounding for maximum stability.
Impressively, the diverse teachings readily integrate into the well-established system Shihan Borut Kincl has built for our organization over the years."
German Team:
"The Camp KAF 2025, organized by the Kempo Arnis Federation under the leadership of Borut and Tina Kincl, was once again a true highlight this year. What makes this camp so special is the atmosphere: martial artists from different countries, styles, and experience levels come together and train on equal footing.
*Regardless of whether someone is a beginner or has decades of experience – mutual respect, shared learning, and the will to grow are what count on the mat. This openness in training is one of the cornerstones of the camp and is reflected throughout all sessions.
*What also stands out is not only the diversity of participants but also the high quality of instructors. Under Borut Kincl's direction, internationally recognized teachers were once again invited this year, including two exceptional figures:
- Avi Nardia, founder of Kapap and expert in BJJ, Jiu-Jitsu, Karate, military close combat, and more.
- Gábor Rózsa from Hungary, known for his outstanding skills in Kyokushin Karate.
Gábor Rózsa impressively demonstrated how timing, speed, precision, and body mechanics play a central role in Karate – and how this knowledge can be transferred to other martial arts. Avi Nardia shared his deep understanding of systembased training, particularly in transitions – from stand-up to ground, technique combinations, locks, throws, and control – always with a focus on real-world applicability and intuitive action.
*Another special aspect of the camp is its cross-style approach. Whether Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Karate, Jiu-Jitsu, or Kapap – it's not about separation, but integration. Techniques are compared, adapted, and integrated. The goal: a deeper understanding of movement, structure, and function – independent of any single style.
The camp content covered a wide range of core topics:
*- Stand-Up Fighting
*- Ground Fighting & Transitions
*- Throws, Locks & Control
*- Drills to Train Intuition and Decision-Making Sparring / Randori in Different Intensities
Especially impressive is the mindset that all participants bring with them. The spirit on the mat is marked by respect, energy, focus, and a genuine will to evolve. Techniques are not just shown – they are understood and embodied. The instructors guide and inspire while also giving space for individual responsibility.
For me personally, Camp 2025 was a complete success. I not only took home new impulses for my own martial arts school but also gained important experience training with high-caliber instructors like Avi Nardia and Gábor Rózsa. The depth of exchange and the speed with which techniques were absorbed and applied – all of this shows the great potential of this format.
I'm grateful to have been part of this journey since 2014, together with Borut Kincl, who drives this movement forward with great dedication and heart. And I'm already looking forward to Camp 2026 –where we will deepen what we've achieved and continue to grow together."
The largest international group came from Germany, from the Karate Club Seelze with their trainer Jan Torborg (Chief Instructor Kempo Arnis Germany).
On Avi Jiujutsu: "The ground fighting with pinning techniques from all possible positions was technically demanding. With a great deal of humor, Avi N. managed to maintain attention throughout the entire seminar. It's always impressive how Avi can either defend himself against any grip or apply a technique from any position. His decades of experience in various martial arts make everything he does look effortless. His opponents, on the other hand, have to give their all to always come out on the short end."
On Borut Knepo Arnis: "The sparring and self-defense techniques, with countless partner changes, demanded stamina and versatility from the participants. With his passion for Kempo Arnis, B. Kincl always manages to get the most out of his participants. He also has a very broad range of martial arts skills, which, combined with his teaching skills, makes him an exceptional trainer who has long been recognized worldwide as one of the best martial artists."
On Rózsa Kyokushin Champion: "His topic was the principles of body mechanics for improving acceleration and stabilization of one's stance and strike/kick. I didn't know someone could be as fast as Rózsa G.! He perfects everything needed for a fast, powerful, and energetic strike/kick, and he himself is tough as steel. I've never seen anything like it in 36 years of martial arts. Furthermore, with his humble and very personable manner, Rozsa is an extremely approachable world-class trainer. He was very successful in conveying the finer details for improving technique to the participants."
Having just returned from these commitments, I am already preparing for my next international engagement in Japan. This upcoming trip will serve multiple purposes:
1. Filming another instructional DVD to add to our existing collection of six comprehensive training resources
2. Conducting specialized Vice Presidential protection training in Japan
3. Leading an innovative seminar that integrates Japanese Jujutsu, Israeli Jujutsu, and Brazilian Jujutsu into a cohesive selfdefense system
This Japanese seminar represents my commitment to respectful cross-cultural exchange, acknowledging the Japanese origins of many grappling techniques while demonstrating how Israeli combat methodologies have adapted these approaches for modern selfdefense contexts.
At a recent conference in Belgrade, I had the opportunity to explain the foundational principles and basic framework of our system. Beyond the physical techniques, I emphasized how our approach integrates:
* Close Distance Combat (CDC) methodologies
* Defensive tactics for law enforcement and security professionals
* Firearm integration within the hand-to-hand combat system
* Vice Presidential protection protocols
* Close Quarters Battle (CQB) techniques
* Comprehensive security training
This integrated approach distinguishes our system from more limited martial arts traditions. By incorporating these elements into the fundamental Krav Maga and Kapap frameworks, we provide students with superior results and more effective solutions to realworld threat scenarios. The system remains true to the pragmatic Israeli approach—emphasizing efficiency, adaptability, and survival above ceremonial elements or competitive restrictions.
My journey as a Kapap/Krav Maga and IJJ (Integrated Jiujutsu) founder involves continuous travel, teaching, and refinement of these combat systems. Through seminars across multiple continents, instructional materials, and cross-training with diverse martial traditions, I work to ensure that these Israeli martial arts continue to evolve while maintaining their core effectiveness as practical self-defense methodologies. The growing international interest in these systems reflects their proven value for military personnel, law enforcement professionals, security specialists, and civilians seeking realistic protection skills in an increasingly unpredictable world.
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Grand Master Martin Sewer presents in this work a complete course of Bak Hok Pai, the style of the white crane. The crane is an elegant animal. With its white feathered robe, one moment it stands like a ruler, guarding its territory. The next moment, it flaps its wings and moves forward at lightning speed. Although everyone has a clear picture of this graceful creature in their mind, most find it difficult to imagine this great bird in a fight. How does a crane actually fight when threatened? Like all animal styles, the crane style was created by studying the animal's strategies and tactics during a fight and transferring them to humans. This also gave rise to the five animal styles that have stood the test of time and are taught in my school today: Tiger, Crane, Snake, Leopard and Dragon. Mastering all these animal styles and the elements that go with them makes one a perfect human being, say the legends of Kung Fu, and it is naturally part of the philosophy of a true warrior to want to constantly improve and achieve perfection. Although the knowledge/skill of the five animals belongs to advanced levels, four of the mentioned styles are even accessible to beginners in the form of seminars. In them, eager students not only get a deeper insight into our Hung Gar, but also learn the first fighting techniques of the respective animal style, and the most common comment is: "I would not have thought that these techniques could be so efficient...!".
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In the journey of life, as in the way of the warrior, it is not our victories or accolades alone that define who we are, but the manner in which we confront life’s inevitable trials. The true essence of a human being is revealed not in times of ease and triumph, but in moments of adversity, conflict, and suffering. Anyone can wear a smile when the sun is shining. It is simple to speak of virtue when surrounded by peace. But when darkness falls— when we are challenged by pain, failure, and resistance—that is when our true nature is called forth.
In Hwa Rang Do, we are taught that strength without discipline is chaos, and courage without suffering is shallow. We train not just to become formidable in body, but unshakable in spirit. Life will not spare us from hardship, but it will offer us the choice in how we respond. Do we yield to fear, resentment, and weakness—or do we rise with honor, compassion, and resolve?
It is in these defining moments—when all comfort has left us and we are faced only with our inner truth—that the warrior within is either born or broken. And so, to understand what it truly means to be human, we must look not only at our accomplishments, but at our endurance, our character, and our unwavering response to life’s most difficult tests.
No matter what path we choose to walk—whether a career, a relationship, a calling, or the martial path itself—it often begins with lightness in our hearts and fire in our eyes. In the beginning, everything feels new, invigorating, and full of promise. The unknown entices us. The challenge excites us. Like a warrior donning new armor for the first time, we stand tall, eager for the battles ahead, not yet knowing their true nature.
But time, as the sages have said, is the great revealer. "Time is the teller of all truths." And as the days turn into seasons, and seasons into years, the novelty fades, the excitement wanes, and the illusion of ease gives way to the reality of resistance. What once felt like an adventure now begins to feel like a test. The path we once rushed toward with passion begins to rise uphill. The dreams we held so tightly become heavy burdens on our backs.
This is the point at which many falter—not because they are weak, but because they were not prepared to suffer. They mistook the beginning for the journey. They embraced the spark, but not the fire. And so, when the weight becomes too much to bear, when the struggle deepens, a quiet voice begins to whisper within us: escape, run, and hide. We start looking for relief, not resolution. We seek the exit, not the lesson. Sometimes, we’re fully aware of it; other times, the desire to give up hides in subtle justifications—Maybe this wasn’t meant to be. Maybe this path is too hard. Maybe there’s an easier way.
But the way of the Hwarang is not to seek escape. It is to confront. To endure. To overcome. The warrior does not choose the path because it is easy; he chooses it because it demands everything—because it calls forth something greater from within. That burden we feel, that weight we wish to cast off, is not there to destroy us. It is there to forge us. To temper our spirit as steel is tempered in flame. To teach us who we truly are beneath the surface of our excitement.
Only when we remain steadfast—when we stop running from the pain and begin to embrace it as part of the process—do we truly begin the transformation from a mere seeker of dreams to a master of self. That is where true freedom lies—not in escape, but in endurance. Not in evasion, but in evolution.
“The path of the warrior is not to conquer others, but to overcome the self, remain loyal in suffering, and rise in the service of a purpose greater than life itself.”
The title of this reflection—“All Things Are Good Until It’s Not”—is not a cynical declaration, but a necessary awakening. It is a call to see clearly, to strip away the comforting illusions that modern life so often feeds us: that everything should feel good, be easy, and unfold according to our desires. This is the delusion. To expect only ease, success, and pleasure on any journey is to deceive ourselves. It is to walk blindly into the battlefield, unarmed and untrained.
The truth—the warrior’s truth—is that hardship is not the exception, it is the rule. Struggle is not an interruption of the journey; it is the journey. Resistance is not a sign that something has gone wrong—it is a sign that something real is taking place. Every meaningful pursuit will, at some point, become difficult. Every path worth walking will challenge us. This is not misfortune. This is life. And this is training.
“But the way of the Hwarang is not to seek escape. It is to confront. To endure. To overcome.”
In Hwa Rang Do, we do not train the body alone—we train the mind, the spirit, and the will.
In Hwa Rang Do, we do not train the body alone— we train the mind, the spirit, and the will. We do not punch and kick for sport; we forge the soul through discipline. Every technique learned, every fall on the mat, every drop of sweat spilled, is preparation for life itself. Because just like in training, life will strike us when we are tired. It will test us when we are unsure. And when it does, it will not ask for our permission.
So, what then do we do, when “the good” turns into “the not”? When the ease becomes effort, and the lightness becomes a burden?
We stand. We breathe. We endure.
We remember that what we are facing is not a mistake—it is the fire through which the sword is sharpened. We do not curse the flames; we become worthy of the forge. The goal is not to avoid the burn, but to withstand it—to be transformed by it.
“Steel is not born in silence, but in fire and pressure. So too, the soul is not awakened in comfort, but in the crucible of adversity.”
In this way, perseverance is more than endurance; it is alchemy. The hardship we resent becomes the force that awakens our dormant strength. The suffering we try to escape becomes the path that leads us inward, where the real battle is fought and won. And it is there—in that place where “all things are good until they’re not”—that we reclaim our power, not as victims of life, but as its courageous participants.
To live with this mindset—not as a reaction to hardship, but as a prepared and conscious way of being— is to walk the path of true integration. It is to align the body, mind, and spirit not merely to survive life’s difficulties, but to transmute them into the very essence of our growth. This is not a concept for the weak-willed. It is the domain of the warrior—of the Hwarang, the flowering knights of ancient Silla, who devoted their lives to a code of honor, courage, and selfless service.
The Hwarang warriors were not born into comfort. They were cultivated through challenge. Their training was brutal, their disciplines rigorous, but their purpose was sacred. They studied not only martial arts and military tactics, but also poetry, philosophy, ethics, and spiritual cultivation. They were scholars and warriors, artists and ascetics. They embodied the principle that to master the world outside, one must first master the world within.
There is no greater embodiment of the truth of resilience and courage than the legendary General Kim Yusin, one of the greatest Hwarang warriors in Korean history. In an early campaign against the powerful Koguryó kingdom in 629 A.D., the Silla army, led by Yusin’s own father, Sohyún, suffered brutal defeat after defeat while attempting to capture Nangbi Castle. Morale collapsed. The battlefield was littered with fallen comrades. Terror spread like wildfire, and the will to fight was all but extinguished. The troops, broken in spirit, refused to rise again.
But Kim Yusin, still a young commander at the time, refused to surrender to despair. With unwavering devotion to the Hwarang virtues of loyalty, filial piety, and courage, he removed his helmet and stood before his father and the army, declaring,
“They have defeated us. But throughout my life I have been guided by loyalty and filial piety. In the face of battle, one must be courageous. I have heard that if you shake a coat by the collar, the fur will hang straight. And that if you lift up the headrope, the whole fishing net will open. Let me become the collar and the border rope.”
With those words, he mounted his horse, drew his sword, and without waiting for orders, leapt over the trench and charged alone into the enemy’s front lines. Like a fire ignited in a sea of ashes, he cut his way through the enemy ranks and struck down their general with his own hand. When he returned holding the severed head high for all to see, the effect was immediate and profound. The Silla soldiers, shamed and inspired, arose as one. Their courage restored; they surged forward in a wave of righteous fury. Over five thousand enemy heads were counted after the assault, and more than a thousand captives were taken alive. The defenders of Nangbi Castle, paralyzed by fear, surrendered without resistance.
This was not merely a tactical victory. It was a spiritual triumph—a testament to the power of one soul, fully aligned with his calling, refusing to yield when all seemed lost. It was a sacred reminder that the spirit of the warrior is not measured by ease or outcome, but by endurance, loyalty, and faithfulness to divine purpose, even when abandoned by hope.
In Hwa Rang Do, this same principle lives on. The discipline we cultivate on the mat is not separate from how we live our lives. How we breathe through exhaustion, how we rise after being thrown, how we remain calm in the face of simulated combat—all of it is a metaphor for how we must navigate the world. The goal is not simply to fight well, but to live well. To be whole. To remain rooted in our values, even when everything around us feels uncertain or hostile.
So, when we face that turning point—when the thing that once felt good becomes painful, when the dream feels more like a burden than a blessing—we do not run. We do not complain. We do not retreat. Instead, we reflect. We integrate. We ask: What is this moment trying to teach me? What strength is it calling forth from me? And in that sacred pause, we discover something far more valuable than relief— we discover our true selves.
To live with this awareness is to walk as the Hwarang walked: with clarity in the mind, strength in the body, and fire in the spirit. It is to understand that all things are good until they are not—and even then, they still serve us. Even then, they are still part of the way.
In the end, we are not here to chase only that which feels good. We are here to become good—strong, wise, and resilient—not in spite of the hardships we face, but because of them. This is the warrior’s path. This is the Hwarang way.
“The discipline we cultivate on the mat is not separate from how we live our lives.”
To live expecting only light is to remain blind to the nature of life. To seek purpose while denying the presence of pain is to walk unprepared into the storm. But to see clearly—to accept that the road will be steep, that resistance will come, that all things are good until they are not—and still choose to move forward, is the mark of the awakened warrior. Not one who fights merely with the body, but one who wars within the soul, in allegiance to a higher call.
This is not about stoicism for its own sake. Nor is it about glorifying suffering as if hardship were a virtue in itself. It is about recognizing that to suffer—and to endure that suffering with grace, courage, and clarity— is a calling rooted in Divine purpose. It is about embracing the fullness of the human experience with the heart of a warrior, the humility of the meek, and the wisdom of a sage. It is about meeting resistance with readiness, meeting loss with loyalty—not only to oneself, but most and foremost to God—and meeting pain with sacred purpose.
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him.”
James 1:12
For it is written throughout the arc of history and scripture: God does not call the strong, He strengthens the called. He chooses the weak to shame the strong, the meek to carry the mantle of greatness, the broken to heal the world. The truest strength, then, is not found in domination or ease—but in surrender, obedience, and perseverance in the face of suffering. The warrior who understands this walks not only in discipline, but in alignment with the will of Heaven.
Like the Hwarang of old, we are not forged in luxury but in fire. Our training—on the mat, in the heart, in the spirit—is a preparation for sacred duty. We must not merely master technique; we must master our impulses, our pride, our craving for comfort. Hardship is not the enemy—it is the anvil. It is the sacred forge where the illusions of self are broken and the light of truth is revealed. Only there do we find a strength that endures, a joy that survives sorrow, and a love that transcends self-interest.
All things are good until they are not. This is not a warning—it is an invitation. An invitation to rise when others fall, to deepen when others distract, to awaken when others sleep. For when comfort fades and struggle sharpens, that is not the end of the story—it is the beginning of transformation. It is the battlefield where God begins His greatest work.
And in that sacred moment, when others turn back or break apart, the true warrior stands—not because it is easy, but because it is righteous. Because the way of the Hwarang is not comfort— it is completeness. It is not escape—it is embodiment. It is not fleeting pleasure—it is eternal purpose, authored by God Himself.
So, stand. Endure. Transform. Not for glory, not for self, but because you were called. Because you were chosen. Because in the furnace of affliction, God is forging in you a weapon for righteousness—a soul that cannot be shaken.
And remember: it is not the ease of the path that reveals greatness, but the strength of the spirit— and the surrender to purpose—that determines the destiny of the warrior.
“But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
2 Corinthians 12:9
Hwarang Forever and May God Bless us with Strength and Courage!
Grandmaster Taejoon Lee
God’s Humble Servant
“Hardship is not the enemy—it is the anvil. It is the sacred forge where the illusions of self are broken and the light of truth is revealed. Only there do we find a strength that endures, a joy that survives sorrow, and a love that transcends self-interest.”
More than a century ago, in our cities, men of different social classes still resorted to sword and saber duels to settle their disputes and in the streets one could meet thugs and muggers ready to use a knife. Times when it was common for a gentleman to leave the house with his cane, often animated, i.e. equipped with a hidden blade. Starting from the treatise of Master G. Martinelli (1908) "Trattato di scherma con bastone da passeggio" interpreted and integrated according to the methodology of the Nova Scrimia, masters Chiaramonte, Galvani, Girlanda and Proietti present a complete work on the use of the cane, which even today can be extremely valid and effective. For cane fencing, Martinelli draws inspiration from the Italian school of saber, with a classical approach, as well as boxing as a means of selfdefense: guard, strikes, parries, feints, spinning and circling steps, jumps, strong blows to the hand, arm, groin and terrifying jabs to the face. The stick placed in good hands is as good as a saber. Of course, it does not cut or pierce, it does not kill, but it brings to reason and, if necessary, brings even the fiercest offender to his knees.
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L'Okichitaw est un art martial indigène basé sur les méthodes de combat des guerriers des nations indiennes Assiniboine et Cri des Plaines. Dans cette compilation, le chef George J. Lépine nous initie à l'utilisation de trois des armes les plus redoutées des guerriers indiens : la massue Gunstock, le Tomahawk et le couteau. Le Gunstock Warclub était l'une des armes d'impact les plus puissantes, car en plus de frapper avec une force incroyable, il pouvait aussi couper ou poignarder. En raison de sa ressemblance avec un fusil, le Gunstock Warclub était également utilisé pour faire croire à l'ennemi qu'il était en possession d'armes à feu. Le Tomahawk de combat était l'une des armes les plus prisées des guerriers, un instrument que l'histoire a inscrit dans nos esprits comme étant agressif et impitoyable. Le chef Lépine explique en détail les concepts de base du Tomahawk, l'entraînement, le lancer, les 20 mouvements, les applications de défense et d'attaque, et les contre-techniques. Enfin, nous découvrirons la méthode traditionnelle d'entraînement au maniement du couteau « Mokiman », seul, en profitant de ce que la nature nous offre, les arbres, le sol, l'eau, ... afin de développer une mécanique corporelle optimale pour offrir le maximum d'impact à l'adversaire. Avec ce travail, Okichitaw continue d'honorer les traditions indigènes pour s'assurer non seulement que ces connaissances demeurent, mais aussi que nous continuons à nous déplacer de la même manière que nos ancêtres.
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There is a notable difference between knife fighting in duels, even deadly ones, and the same weapon used in hand-to-hand combat. We must say that the Italian tradition illustrated in medieval and Renaissance manuals shows great expertise in this regard.
When can we talk about hand-to-hand combat? Whenever we are in close contact, as is the case with two boxers or, even better, two wrestlers. Short distance or close combat is therefore what we generically call Close Combat. If both combatants are holding a knife or a dagger, we are in the realm of hand-to-hand combat with bladed weapons.
“Short distance or close combat is therefore what we generally call Close Combat.”
The Knife in Close Combat The Knife in Close Combat
Even the weapon can be (but not necessarily) different. Those who prefer very close combat like a stable knife with a firm grip, sometimes even with the handle tied to the wrist. This is not always the case. This rule does not apply to everyone. Those who have to prepare military personnel in a short time, training them in hand-to-hand combat, set up courses in which they teach a few things, done well and often using a weapon that remains anchored to the hand even in the most difficult and uncertain moments.
However, the most important role in hand-to-hand combat is played by the free hand. In this case, its use is essential. The free hand not only blocks blows but also grabs the opponent by the arm, leg, head, or clothing, restraining them and trying to prevent them from blocking or deflecting the knife thrust.
Those who know how to fight, who know how to perform effective strangulations and body holds, also know how to move to manage close contact, so all they have to do is add the knife to their skills. In this context, the bladed weapon becomes a force multiplier. The soldier will attack the opponent seeking contact, as if with his bare hands, and will use his knife to deliver the fatal blow. Usually, the most effective attack is with the tip.
The eye, heart, kidneys, liver, and subclavian artery are targets which, if hit with the tip of the dagger, leave the opponent with no chance of escape. Cuts are equally effective but do not always have the same stopping power. However, in a close combat move, if necessary, a slashing blow can be used precisely because the other person is in a hold that significantly restricts their movements. Obviously, the cut must be made in sensitive areas, in parts of the body that, if injured, will cause the opponent to lose consciousness even before death. It is easy to see that the most effective area for this purpose is the neck.
In hand-to-hand combat, throws to the ground are so important that Close Combat is sometimes likened to Combat Judo.
You can strike with a knife before throwing the other person to the ground. In this case, the throw ensures that, in the event of a missed or imperfect strike, the other person cannot immediately counterattack because they are off balance.
Alternatively, you can strike during the throw. The latter is the best option, as none of us are capable of mounting any effective defense or counterattack while our nervous system is busy regaining balance.
Finally, the third option is to throw your opponent to the ground and, as soon as they touch the ground, strike them, taking advantage of the disorientation caused by the throw.
Striking an opponent on the ground with a bladed weapon may cause outrage, but remember that we are not talking about self-defense; we are illustrating the use of knives in theaters of war.
Another very important difference, often overlooked, is the equipment a soldier is equipped with. It is not a matter of taking off your jacket, standing in your shirt sleeves and starting a rustic duel jumping left and right, but of moving with all your equipment on. Just try putting on boots and a heavy jacket and then a backpack on top of them to understand how everything that is easy in the gym immediately becomes difficult in reality.
However, if clothing and equipment are often not taken into adequate consideration during training, even less consideration is given to the different purposes and motivations in the two areas: dueling and close combat. Let me explain: in a duel, the goal is the opponent, while in close combat,
the opponent is only an obstacle on the path to the goal. If you have to reach a position and are attacked by an enemy along the way, you draw your blade and both of you have an interest in resolving the situation as quickly as possible. Furthermore, you must not only survive the encounter, but also remain as unharmed as possible and with sufficient energy reserves to face other obstacles and complete the mission. All these considerations lead to a significant change in combat tactics. Let's not be influenced by movies; they are beautiful because they are fiction, fiction so well done that it seems real, but hand-to-hand combat in a real situation has little to do with cinema and elegance. Those who do not freeze in the face of mortal danger, who do not hesitate and who have an instinctive response, usually prevail.
So, should we train with all our equipment and uniform?
No. Not even the military does that, but at a certain point, training must take these variables into account: clothing, equipment, and above all, uneven terrain that is different from what we find in the training room.
Psychological preparation, especially when it comes to bladed weapons, is equally essential. The baptism of fire, in this case of blood, is a necessary factor in facing a knife fight in an environment where there are no referees or rules, where combat is usually resolved with a lightning-fast winning move, not always by the most skilled, but by the one who has been able to keep a cool head in the face of the ancestral terror that pointed and bladed weapons instill in human beings.
“Striking an opponent on the ground with a bladed weapon may cause outrage, but remember that we are not talking about selfdefense, we are illustrating the use of knives in theaters of war.”
This second work on knife is primarily aimed at those who already have an idea of the biomechanics of close combat movement. Master Skogorev explains in detail some techniques of knife work, such as the basic motor function in defense and attack, the proper position to move and react to the enemy's actions, ways of grasping a knife (hidden and open) and the quick and instantaneous response of defense and attack. Everything is performed according to the principles based on the methods of elimination of the opponent, such as physical balance and knowledge of the strike zones on body and limbs. In the section of knife against knife, these options should not be considered as options of knife fighting, it is only a variant of the use of one's own weapon against the opponent's knife, everything is built exclusively in the environment of self-defense. Also shown is the work of knife against stick, as a method to obtain a real representation of the impact force and speed in a real action. All this in an easy and simple way if you have previously studied the previous lessons. With thanks to all, D. Skogorev, Systemа SV. 76 Min.
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“Larga Mano” (Long Hand) simply means long-distance combat, a method that teaches you to stay away from your opponent and hurt him without even entering the hand-to-hand distance. In a way, the Filipino people were ahead of the times, perhaps because, little conditioned by their traditions, they suffered many invasions and, frequently, their habits and customs were altered. But they knew how to turn their misfortune into advantage, and they learned to absorb and integrate everything that could be useful and increase effectiveness. Their Martial Arts are an excellent example of this. Philippine Arts masters did not pose the problem of remaining tied to such or such custom, but without hesitation, integrated into their own systems personal experiences of Karate or Japanese Judo, Western Boxing, Silat of neighboring Indonesia and the ancient traditions linked to Scrima, the art of self-defense perfected in the Italian peninsula.
When the Philippine Arnis spread in the West, to distinguish it from Fencing, it was called "the living hand fencing", because the hand that did not hold the weapon, actively collaborated in the actions of defense and offense. Thus, the difference between the two systems, the East and the West, is that in Olympic fencing, the unarmed hand is kept safe and used at most to balance the impulse in assaults; in Arnis the unarmed hand is alive and active.
In this work, Professor Maltese shows us the basic positions, defenses and fundamental attacks, guard exercises, blocking, crossing and counterattack in Redondo, the fifth, seventh, eighth and contras defenses, dynamic training and free combat exercises with protections. We will also see the bag training (blows, blockades and counterattacks) and a final chapter dedicated to Sword and Dagger, the Italian art in the Philippine Kali, executed with authentic weapons.
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React directly, quickly, and harshly, and enter close combat protected.
Pressure your opponent and attack decisively without hesitation or interruption, but continue in a goal-oriented manner.
End the fight quickly and consistently. Leave your opponent no chance.
The anatomy of street fighting cannot be defined as a martial art or tradition, sport, or competition, but rather as ruthless street fighting without rules, i.e., aggressiveness, reality, and vandalism.
The anatomy of street fighting cannot be defined as a martial art or tradition, sport or competition, but rather as ruthless street fighting without rules, i.e. aggression, reality and vandalism, which over time becomes a ritual form. Nowadays, a certain level of aggression can be found in every person, but always to varying degrees. The majority of people live or wake up with fear or hatred, anger or stress.
In this text, I mention experiences I have gained in the field of real street fighting. With regard to self-defense, I will give you a few tips on how to defend yourself in a street fight. In most cases, there is no chance of escape. I would like to reiterate that a fight must be a last resort.
In my experience, anyone can be a victim, at any time and in any place in the world...!
It is important to understand that street fighting involves all aspects of combat, such as an attack in a car, in an elevator, in a parking garage or parking lot, on a train, in a hallway, at home, etc. It also involves all combat distances, such as close combat or ground fighting, against a single attacker or multiple opponents. You can be attacked with a knife, such as a one-handed folding knife, a switchblade knife, a switchblade, a razor, a key, or other knives, or with a stick, a broken bottle, an ashtray, billiard balls, a belt, a pistol, a telescopic baton, brass knuckles, a baton, etc. So never forget that malice touches all possible aspects.
In a self-defense course, everything is so simple, but the opposite is true in reality. Most people think that a weekend self-defense course will enable them to defend themselves. You have a slight advantage, but you are certainly not well enough protected against one or more attacks in different situations or at different times.
With the anatomy of street fighting, I would like to say that it would be extremely advantageous to learn about human psychology, as well as the three aspects, the three alarm levels, the factors codes A and B, the diffe-
rent principles, and the vital points of the human body. Finally, knowing and mastering all fighting distances in the area of armed combat or even unarmed combat would be an additional advantage. All of this enables us to survive the fight and be in a better position.
Vital points
As already mentioned, it is also very important to know the various vital points of the human body and what happens when they are attacked and injured, either unarmed, with a knife or other objects. This knowledge about injuries to vital
points allows us to know what to expect and what can happen, and only then can we prepare ourselves accordingly. Here is a brief overview of the most important vital points of the human body.
Forehead
A blow with the palm of the hand, fist, or elbow can cause unconsciousness or even death.
Ears
A blow to the ears with the fist, palm, or elbow can cause deafness and unconsciousness or even lead to serious injury.
Eyes
An attack on the eyes with various finger holds can lead to blindness.
Nasal bone
A blow to the nasal bone with the elbow, fist, or open hand can cause unconsciousness and bleeding.
Teeth
A blow with the fist or elbow can severely damage the teeth.
Throat
A blow to the throat with the fist, the inner and outer edge of the hand or the elbow can cause unconsciousness or damage the windpipe and can be fatal.
Lower abdomen
A kick or blow with the open hand to the genitals causes extreme pain and incapacitates the victim.
Lower abdomen
A blow with the knee or fist to the lower abdomen causes the victim to double over and experience extreme pain. In addition, the victim feels unable to breathe.
It is very important to know that at any moment we find ourselves in, there is a possibility of being attacked. Each of these moments is associated with three aspects, and these always accompany us. These aspects are surprise, doubt, and fear. If we are not aware of these three aspects, have not analyzed them, or have not even trained for them properly, then the chance of surviving an attack is very low. It is therefore a high priority to examine these three aspects of street fighting and analyze them thoroughly in order to increase the chances of surviving an attack. For example, the causes of the three aspects are:
- Surprise - makes us mentally and physically insecure
- Fear - robs us of our wits and makes us powerless
- Doubt - takes away our confidence and leads to physical blockage
Through special training, surprise is redirected into high selfconfidence, fear sensitivity and fear resistance are transformed into extreme self-confidence, and doubt is removed and eliminated. The key to success lies in concrete and effective training with perfect focus.
Level 1: Green – Latent threat
Level 2: Orange – Increased awareness
Level 3: Red – Serious threat
There are countless self-defense systems, but all of them, from private individuals to law enforcement agencies, are confronted with these 3 Danger Level Concepts - D.L.C. Those who understand, train and master these levels will be able to adapt to all situations in order to protect their lives, their families or friends in the best possible way. It is also important to know that the transition between levels naturally depends on the opponent's reaction and can therefore happen quickly. The goal is not to defeat an opponent, but to master any aggression and survive extreme threats.
Anything that is effective is allowed. There are no rules on the street!
Nowadays, it is normal to be confronted with various conflicts. For example, physical, psychological, verbal, and bodily. Many people are confronted with the words quoted above and do not know what to do, how to react, or how to behave, etc. A conflict can take place in different environments and locations and is not always the same. The attackers' goals vary and the aggression that arises is certainly not always the same. So, first of all, in order to understand the anatomy of street fighting, you must first understand and learn the various principles of real selfdefense, which are:
- How do I prepare myself?
- What is the top priority?
- What can I do about it?
- How do I set my boundaries?
- How do I guard my boundaries?
- How do I defend my boundaries?
- Why is less better than more?
- Recognizing and assessing the potential danger.
- Recognizing and assessing the possibility of a confrontation and an attack.
- The mindset and mental strength needed to survive a confrontation.
- The differences between real self-defense and martial arts.
- How to control your fighting spirit, body, and voice to minimize confrontation.
- The vulnerability of the human body and how to translate this knowledge into effective techniques and tactics.
- How to react under stress and how to proceed. As you can see, the field of self-defense is very broad and very dangerous. So, never forget that every moment is a moment when it can happen, and never forget that effectiveness lies in simplicity.
Remember that, unfortunately, it can also happen to you, because anyone can be a victim on the street!
You remember the various psychological and physical factors Code A – B that we may encounter. The reason for these different factors is that, for example, we may have to guess a fighting distance that is unknown to us.
The 2 factors Code A and B are defined as follows.
1. Psychological factors Code A:
- Insecurity
- Forgetfulness
- Lack of concentration
- Poor judgment
- Lack of tactical understanding
- Blockage in finding a safe solution
- Tendency to lose track of things
- Imprecise and illogical thinking
- Guarding and controlling one's own boundaries
- Inability to draw a line at one's own limits
1. Physical factors Code B:
- Trembling
- Sweating
- Insecurity
- Rapid pulse
- High blood pressure
- Incorrect posture
- Muscle tension
- Physical weakness
- Technical and tactical deficiencies in defending one's own limits
So we see that these are just a few different factor codes that can affect us. First, it is very important to know and master all distances and then to strengthen the psychological and physical factors!
So remember, draw your boundaries! Guard your boundaries and defend them 360°.
One day, one of the mothers who had her little daughter Sussi in my class at the Gracie Zurich Dojo approached me with the question: “Franco, I have a son who is two years older than Sussi, but he is blind... Sussi is always talking at home about the cool training she has with you, and I was wondering if I could bring him to you for a trial in Jiu-Jitsu?”
She did not have to wait long for my reply: “Yes, of course, if you (and he) would like, I can also offer you a private (one-to-one) trial lesson, and you could watch the class and let him decide if Jiu-Jitsu is the right way to start with Martial Arts. Monica immediately liked the idea and my offer, and we arranged a day for her son Markus to have a trial lesson with me. About a week later the boy and his mother visited the Dojo and after a very short verbal introduction about me and the roots of our Jiu-Jitsu method, we decided to dress up with our Gis and go to the Tatame.
At that time I had a (more or less) teaching plan for Markus, although I must admit that it was the first one, I taught under these physical restrictions. But I was also very excited to see if my plan would match the boy's expectations. Thank God our two goals for this introductory lesson were almost the same. The boy's goal was to give me a “hard time” as he later told me - laughing and asking Monica if he could join my Dojo for good and get more lessons the same week.
My aim was to give my new young Jiu-Jitsu friend a more normal environment. Before joining the Dojo, I talked to him about training with other kids and how he would feel. From my side, I liked the idea so much that I offered him to train with me privately first, to get some basics and not feel lost when he started training with the kids group. The boy, the parents and I - we all expected some situations that Markus would face in the open group training. But to our great surprise, every one of the kids wanted to train with Markus and teach him his best move. The boy enjoyed it so much that I did not have to wait for other blind children - from different age groups - boys and girls - to come and practice Jiu-Jitsu with us.
The program for the blind kids is based on pure Gracie Jiu-Jitsu the way with teach it, which I have been studying for over 35-plus years. Since 1995, I have run my own Dojo (Gracie Zuerich), offering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as taught by Grandmaster Hélio Gracie and my mentor, GM Pedro Hemetério.
In my program “Blind grapplers” I use (almost) the same material. Some people think that I have had to modify some techniques, but the truth is that Gracie Jiu-Jitsu works perfectly for blind people without any modifications. Only recently I begun to talk more about this unique project because I wanted to give myself enough time to evaluate me and my Dojo in connection with the “Blind Grapplers” project taught since 2014. My well-established and strongly growing Gracie Concepts® network (est. 1995) around the globe also allows me to share this program with other affiliate Dojo partners and beyond.
Upon certain point, I wanted to share my “Blind Grapplers” project with my other students, and I created some “games” to introduce my work. Believe me, this was the breakthrough... It was amazing to see how adults and young people “play” with each other would when you ask them to train completely blinded in Jiu-Jitsu.
“Martial Arts are the perfect tool to get blind people into sports, and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is the top of the food chain!”
“One of the core teachings of Masaaki Hatsumi, the founder of the Bujinkan Dojo and heir to several traditional Japanese martial arts (including Togakure-ryū ninjutsu), is the concept of: Kansei ( ) or “Intuitive Sensitivity”
Hatsumi Sensei places great importance on developing intuitive perception and natural movement rather than relying purely on strength, technique drills, or rigid forms. This idea reflects his deep understanding of timing, distance, rhythm, and the feeling of a situation. He often emphasizes that you shouldn’t fight strength with strength. Rather, “Feel” the opponent. Move freely. Adapt naturally.”
For Bujinkan martial arts practice, this means not relying on prearranged kata but adapting spontaneously and training the body and mind to respond intuitively under pressure. Most importantly this means letting go of ego and control to allow true movement to arise. Hatsumi Sensei believes that real mastery comes when you transcend technique and flow with the situation, something he often refers to as moving into “zero” or “kukan” ( , the space) where you are fully present, yet untouchable.
This reflects not just martial arts effectiveness, but a philosophical approach to life rooted in flexibility, awareness, and balance.”
-April 6th, 2025, by Sean Askew (BKR BUDO)
Anyone who trains Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu knows that at some point in sparring, beginners (and advanced practitioners) can start using brute force instead of proper technique. Immediately the personal ego kicks in and shows its ugly side. I don't like the quote “You either win or you learn!”, written by someone who is a loser from the start, at least that is my opinion. Imagine a warrior (like a Samurai) thinking like that! In western culture, losing is like a disaster and people want to have an “answer” for everything – including losing.
With the help of my brother Demetrio, I created a teaching method that has been used by all our Gracie Concepts® affiliate trainers and instructors for decades. The principle of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is the basis of a program created specifically for our “Blind Grapplers”. However, one of the most important elements used in training blind people - and not only - is our “Progressive Randori System” (short PRS).
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu teaches you different ways of moving your body, and with “PRS” you will learn how to apply each technique under pressure and against different opponents and situations. Randori is often misunderstood and used incorrectly by many BJJ schools. In BJJ, Randori is often called “rolling”, which may sound “cool”, but it is not! In Jiu-Jitsu we do not “roll” at any time. In Jiu-Jitsu we learn to fight and defend ourselves. So I see no point in starting a sparring session by sitting on my butt and getting my opponent on top of me! For someone who is a big and strong person - or an athlete fighting against someone of the same weight and skill level - it may “work” at a certain point, but on the street with NO RULES and NO TIME LIMITS, under heavy conditions it will NOT work for sure... and now imagine a person who is also blind applying this concept! How would this tactic work for them? Guys let's be realistic and serious!
Yes, absolutely - and I tell you more: there is no better sport than Martial Arts for your children, regardless of any physical disability. Yes, it is a challenge! Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and other (real) Martial Arts are better than any other team sport because you must focus on yourself. He (or she) will learn to respect others, because without a training partner no training is possible, and no progress can be made.
Learning fighting skills (with Jiu-Jitsu or any other Martial Art) has been an integral part of human existence since the dawn of civilization. We have used such skills to survive! We always make the mistake of associating Martial Arts skills with traditional Far-Eastern fighting systems. We think of Asian countries like China, Thailand and Japan, but we forget that we have our own history here in Europe. Modern civilization has taught us that fighting is not the answer, but in some cases the only answer - to survive!
Our long and extensive history of Martial Arts (Wrestling, Boxing, etc.) goes back several thousand years. However, let's not make the same mistake of thinking that the creation of Martial Arts is directly descended from the “meditation methods” practiced by Buddhist monks. The belief that several hundred years before Christ, traditions of meditation training in motion made their way from India to China is out of date.
We have romanticized Martial Arts with the aim of making it suitable for the cinema and bringing Western culture closer to “Asian” culture. Fighting is just fighting... there is nothing beautiful about punching someone in the face, kicking them in the leg and breaking their arm. We must name it, otherwise we make the same mistake again and lose the essence of what true Martial Arts is all about. Yes indeed, you will train “your mind and body”, and your soul will be more reach, but it is fighting that we end up doing.
Jiu-Jitsu (or in more modern terms Ju-Jutsu, Tai-Jutsu, etc.) has always been associated with Samurais and Ninjas, a caste of brutal warriors and assassins from Japan. That is true! Kung-Fu (China) and Karate (Okinawa, Japan) have no connection with Samurais or Ninjas at any time in history. Jiu-Jitsu, as it was used after the Samurai era, is a much more modern “product” of the Fighting Arts schools (Bujutsu) in Japan, after the emperor’s decision to close the traditional Fighting schools and promote “Do” (Japanese for “way”) and support the creation of Aikido, Iaido, Kendo, Judo, etc. to promote Japanese culture and sports. There is no such thing as “magic” and supernatural powers in Martial Arts - it is often promoted to believe that warriors are some sort of superheroes. The high level of fitness of those who train is simply the result of in-depth knowledge, hard and consistent work. Movies and TV series of all kinds have played, and continue to play, a major role in popularizing Martial Arts of all kinds.
Blind (and partially sighted) people are often denied the opportunity to enjoy physical activity and its benefits. This is due to all kinds of barriers that the environment place in the way of blind people. Apart from the physical problems that significantly affect access to sporting disciplines, blind people face a few other problems, mainly in the form of a lack of qualified teachers and infrastructure.
A blind person moves in a different way; the body is stiffened, and the person moves in a way that can be defined as "protective". The blind person will need much more time to feel ok and safe in standing, but with Jiu-Jitsu – the person will train also on the ground and have additional “support”; but again, the teacher must be profound with the techniques and positions taught in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. However, blind people who experience such stimulation develop not only harmony in their movements but also a higher sense of self-control.
“Your way of thinking will naturally change as you become more skilled. Therefore, just keep going.”
Nagato Sensei (Bujinkan Japan)
I can assure you that yes indeed, Martial Arts are the perfect tool to get blind people into sports, and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is the top of the food chain! Why am I so convinced? Because I have experienced several Sports and Martial Arts training sessions with blind people. Of course it is different for each of us because we have different needs. But we also have many of the same goals in life when it comes to learning Martial Arts or a Self-defense method.
Jiu-Jitsu at the top because it is based on close combat and one of the most important skills used is “leverage over muscle power”. Technique is the key in Jiu-Jitsu and with repetition you will achieve perfection and automatism. Your reaction under pressure will be perfect, even if your opponent is much bigger and stronger than you.
In Gracie Jiu-Jitsu there is no age limit; men and women can start at any time. Because you learn to adapt Jiu-Jitsu to you, not the other way around. Translating Jiu-Jitsu from the Japanese, we can say that it is a “flexible – adaptable” Art of Defense, sometimes translated as “Arte Suave” (in Brazilian language), and in English as “Gentle Art”.
Jiu-Jitsu is easy to learn, and the basic tools - techniques and tactics - are learned quickly. It covers everything from standing and ground aggression, against armed and unarmed situations. Because of its realism and natural movements, beginner Gracie Jiu-Jitsu training not only progresses in knowledge and skill but also becomes more interesting. While the complete Gracie System may have fewer than 600 techniques, many of these techniques work in different situations and under different conditions. Compare this to other Asian-based Martial Arts that have more than 3000-5000 (!) techniques to learn.
In Gracie Jiu-Jitsu you will never stop progressing and learning, regardless of the color of your belt. The belt color will tell you nothing but how long a person has been training. But it is not here to tell you “How many” techniques he or she knows. The belt is there to motivate youbut in the end, even a Black belt in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu will continue his journey by improving, sharpening and sharing his knowledge.
People in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu will develop a strong attitude. You will gain greater self-confidence and self-esteem. Your mental skills such as concentration and perseverance are part of the whole training. Respect and responsibility for yourself and your training partner is imperative. Progress will come through daily training, not just by showing up. You will be asked to work with your body and mind - fully focused and aware of the “here and now”. How I introduced our Regular members to “Blind Grapplers” ...
The introduction to our regular members to the “Blind Grapplers” project, was fun and exciting from day one! I have created various games and drills in a (natural) progressive method to introduce students to working with blind people and to experience themselves what it means to be, and exercises blinded.
Working with my young Jiu-Jitsu friend Markus and later other kids and teenagers in my “Blind Grapplers” courses and regular classes, I understood the benefits of bringing them together with my regular members at certain moment, however, and whenever they were ready and of course willing to try out new emotions and feelings. One of my goals is to popularize my “Blind Grappling” project beyond our Gracie Concepts® network in Europe. I am more than willing to share my experience with anyone - just give me a call and let's talk about it. The Blind community in Europe needs more of the same (or similar) Martial Arts projects. Some European governments may even support you financially if you present a professional project. Do not take this mission lightly - make it professional, you will be teaching people with very sensitive needs. Always be professional when you start such a project. You will be putting Martial Arts and yourself into a very important project and many people around you will be willing to help you if the work you do is one hundred percent correct. Keep it real!
Ever since its inception the Ocean State Grand Nationals has proven to be a pinnacle for martial arts sports showcase. Preserving every aspect of the Arts has always been its main emphasis and with that in view people tend to gravitate more to this event throughout the years. Martial Arts traces back as far as ancient civilization. Evidence suggests that martial arts have been practiced for thousands of years, with their beginnings dating back at least 3,000 years. Moreover, evidence of fighting strategies in ancient societies such as Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Greece can be found in artifacts, early literature, and archaeological discoveries.
On April 4-6, 2025 at Crowne Plaza Warwick RI everyone anticipated another electrified show as over 2500 competitors from all over the world came to demonstrate their resilience, artistry, skills, tenacity, etc. The OSGN Championship is a KRANE Rated 6A, NASKA Rated 5A as well as a WKC Qualifier. Each year the event gets bigger and better as it seeks to bring a new level of expectation to practitioners to not just show up for the moment but let this dynamic sport transform them continually. Don Rodrigues (10th degree black belt grand master) along with his wife Christine Rodrigues (11 time world champion, a movie stunt coordinator, a great fighter, winner of endless karate championships worldwide) have managed the role as tournament promoters over the years. Together they are a beacon of hope to the Ocean State and the martial arts community at large. Individuals such as Don and Christine must be highly respected and treasured for their passion to not only preserve the arts but for dedicating themselves to ensure that the legacy of martial arts lives on and stay strong. Once again they did an awesome job. Their planning, professionalism and quality service always leave an indelible impression on everyone, that is why 43 years of this Championship deserve more than a just standing ovation, more than mere accolades.
This year’s cash prizes awarded to all top winners in the finals were over $40,000. Among the special guests were Ross Levine 12X Sports Karate Champion and 2X ISKA US Open winner, 9X Warrior Cup winner, 3X Diamond Ring winner, 7X Ocean State winner (5X in Fighting & 2X Weapons), an undefeated pro kickboxer and more. Guest of honor - Mayor of Rhode Island Frank Picozzi showed his full support, greeting guests, competitors and taking pictures with everyone. I had the pleasure of sitting next to him and his lovely wife by the ring side enjoying the finals and engaging in conversations. Mayor Picozzi endorsed my book Fighting Dynamics and Budo International MA Magazine even posed for pictures holding the book and Budo Magazine, Thank you Mayor Frank.
Saturday April 5, 2025 the night time show and finals started with the national anthem. Over 1000 spectators and guests of honor were in attendance. Following with the opening demo by the incredible and talented team form winners. Then came the big surprise award give away to this year’s top supporting school. An 85” smart TV for runner up presented by Mayor Frank Picozzi. There was so much energy in the room as the crowd witnessed the magic and excitement of the night, music blasting as every competitor displayed their forms, kata, traditional kata, musical kata, weapons, and fighting winners finale of this year’s championship.
14-17 Girls black belt forms _Sofia Rodriquez Tores
14-17 Boys blackbelt forms _Wasim Dread
2025 Veterans Award Recipient _Colonel Rhonda Gomez
Girls 16-17 Fighting Grand Champion _Sofia Rodriguez Tores
Women’s traditional weapon _Haley Blass
Men’s Traditional Weapons _John Colman
Women’s CMX Weapons _Kythelyn Ball
Men’s CMX Weapons _Dawson Haltz
13/under Girls Weapons _ Maanda Cortez
13/under Boys Weapons _Michael Melina
14-17 Boys Weapons _Gavin Toran
Sync Traditional Grand Weapons _Team Paul Mitchell
Sync CMX Grand Traditional _Team Paul Mitchell
Men’s Traditional Forms Grand _Diego Rodriguez
Women’s Black Belt Traditional Forms _Kathy Gitaway
Men’s Black Belt CMX Forms Grand _Philip Relay
Women’s Black Belt CMX Forms Grand _Amy Glass
Men’s Black Belt Lt. Wt. Fighting Grand _Bailey Murphy
Men’s Black Belt Hvy Wt. Fighting Grand _Dwain Boren
Men's Open Weight winners at the Ocean State Grand Nationals and $10,000 prize money. The event was sponsored by the Zangari Family and Ocean State Collision Center/ Photos by Tim Stanton. Champion 1st place - Enrique Letona $4000 Guatemala
2nd place - Sandro Peters $2000 Germany
3rd place - Devon Hopper $1000 USA
3rd place - Brandon Ballou$1000 USA
Finalists all winning $500 - Dwayne Morin Canada, Kameren Ali USA, Jason Letona Guatemala and Jacob Roch Canada.
The final two matches were very exciting to watch with the overall winner Savan Alwick who received prize of $4000.
As always this year’s 2025 OSGN Hall of Fame Inductee awards were presented by GM Don and Christine Rodrigues to Lisa Gabriel, Conell Loveless, Manny Reyes Sr and Justin Ortiz. Veteran’s Award was presented to Colonel Rhonda Gomez holder of a distinguished 36 year military career among many things including a proud member of the Don Rodrigues Karate Black Belt family.
To sum it up everyone had a great time at this year’s OSGN event. Until next time all the best to tournament participants, guests, competitors and promoters, enjoy life and be safe. From all of us at Budo Magazine.
GM Maurice Elmalem Budo Magazine Editor
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