This week, we covered the topic of the sweeps. Sweeping is probably my favorite techniques (even over a submission). We have been drilling lot of hip bump sweep and scissors a lot lately. So it gave me the opportunity to teach some additional sweeps such as tripod sweep (open guard sweeps). Also I had a great pleasure to introduce the De La Riva guard as well. 3 techniques: basic sweep, back take (also known as baby bolo), "single leg" takedown. "Ricardo De La Riva is a legendary Brazilian jiu jitsu black belt from the late  Carlson Gracie ‘s lineage, being one of the most creative guard players to have ever competed in BJJ. Ricardo De La Riva revolutionized jiu jitsu’s guard game with the creation of the (now) famous “ De La Riva guard ” (originally called “guarda pudim”), Ricardo De La Riva also become an accomplished grappling instructor with several important black belts under his tutelage such as  Rodrigo and Rogerio Nogueira, Walter “Broca”,  Helvecio Pe...

This week, we topic of breaking the closed guard for the fundamental program. Guard break is really important because at white belt level, closed guard is mostly used. While Stu is competing in Japan, I decided to let the advanced students drills their own stuff. I think it is important to give time for advanced students to brain storm techniques and to sharpen specific techniques (building your own game): instead of turning every classes into a mini seminar. We also had the visit from Alczndr (BJJ brown belt) who was in a work seminar in Auckland for couple days. Alcznder invited us to visit MMA core anytime when we are visiting Hamilton. Next week, the topic is guard sweeps. Thank for the support.

Recently, Marc has relocated from Auckland to Papamoa. Last Saturday, he visited this new gym on its opening day. Marc really enjoyed the class and plans to continue training with them. For more information please check out their website. http://www.temaru.co.nz/

Choose the closest gyms available to start with. Traffic can be painful during peak hours and the further you have to travel, the more chance you will find excuses to miss training Try to avoid gyms that would not disclose their price online or when you query for it. Some gyms are so expensive that they will only disclose their fees once you have completed their free trial program. Find a gym that has a clear and standardized teaching program. Try to avoid gyms that just have random techniques taught. Be aware of cults. Like many other martial arts, there are instructors that end up taking themselves too seriously to the point that they think of themselves as life coaches. Number one warming sign is when someone describes his BJJ gym as a "Family". Look at the ratio of instructors and students. While, large numbers of students could be beneficial in terms of having more training partners, you do not want to be in an over crowed class when you do not get the required att...