tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38358762992321013202024-03-13T14:52:24.641-07:00Tapping like RiverdanceBJJ blog. Brazilian Jiu jitsu, martial arts. UK, england. Jadon Ortlepp's blog of his journey through brazilian jiu jitsu, ideas and comedy thrown into the mix.Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.comBlogger96125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-41627463413389030932015-07-17T06:00:00.000-07:002015-07-17T06:00:22.411-07:00Blogging at Trojan Freefighters and intermittent trainingIll be putting some new content up on the <a href="http://www.trojanfreefighters.com/">Trojan Freefighter page</a> as part of there blog in the upcoming future. I want to do my part to try promote the club and its a good way to keep me writing. Ill be doing some spotlight articles on the coaches and members that train there as well as providing and insight into what training is like for the beginner and those at pro level.<br />
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My own training is currently intermittent as BJJ falls on 3 nights at Trojans and currently I am working 2 of them. But only during term time, so during the holidays I will be training every single night possible to try and make up some long ground. However deep in my heart I believe that steady consistency is definitely better than training in bursts. To try get the most out of my limited training I've been really trying to focus on getting maximum practise in each session. I try to never choose my partners, instead to just make myself available to all comers so I don't unconsciously avoid the hard rolls. When I spar with a much less experienced or able opponent I try and put myself in bad positions and give them opportunities. Ill also only use a very specific tactic to try and explore where I need to improve it. I.E open guard to triangle, closed guard to gi choke, spider guard to sweep etc. With the tough guys I can push myself and try do my best. My one big problem is I am a chatty training partner! sometimes I just need to shut up. I don't try coach those who are at a similar level or above, I just like to give compliments!Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-12426296322468715552015-06-29T12:54:00.001-07:002015-06-29T12:54:44.541-07:00I live!<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">It’s been a long time since I’ve updated!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">But due to special request I thought I would provide an update.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">I had to stop BJJ when I was expecting my son to save some money. Once he was born and we had some idea of
finances I started training Judo again as I had some good clubs near me, its a
3rd of the price and would cross over with BJJ.
I did that for about 2 years, working my way up to brown belt (1st
Kyu). I really enjoyed Judo and made
some good friends at Guildford Police Judo club and Dorking Judo club. One of which was <a href="http://stuartjudo.blogspot.co.uk/">Stuart who has his own blog</a>
and does abit of BJJ. I feel I could definitely
go for my 1st Dan, just need to do a technical grading and then beat a few
people up at competition.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">However!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">I then moved to Worcester!, found a great Judo club but then also found a
nearby BJJ club!. I had been missing BJJ
alot and I couldn’t make time to do both so I am back to <a href="http://www.trojanfreefighters.com/">BJJ at Checkmat (Trojan Freefighters</a>)
Worcester under Paul Severn. I am still
a blue belt but the Judo has helped me from deteriorating too much and has
taught me a different skillset. Judo
guys have a fast groundgame and almost always prefer to be on top. Plus the standup obviously. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">I feel very comfortable now at blue, and am now able to give the higher
belts abit of a harder time and keep myself safe when fighting giant
barbarians. Its been fun acclimatizing
to new opponents with different styles to that Im used to. As alot of them are MMA guys most of them aren’t
used to being attacked with traditional gi chokes, which I love. Downside is they are all leg lock crazy. But everyone has a good attitude and injuries
are rare so I am happy.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Working towards that purple, but may take a while as new clubs often want
you to earn your place in the team first before being promoted. Im in no hurry though.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Enjoying the Journey!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-59513754687202978622010-02-20T13:06:00.000-08:002015-06-03T13:11:52.090-07:00Good vibesIve been stuffing my face with pizza and takeaway the last 2 weeks, felt abit shit at training (an incentive to eat well!)but was mystified at somehow losing weight. Am now 67kg. Ive noticed two things of interest recently:<br />
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Been using the cross choke from guard and mount a huge amount, practically every single roll multiple times and have been getting it quite tight. My hands are feeling pretty strong, hopefully if I can get some more climbing wall practise itll get even better.<br />
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The other note of interest is the psychological aspect. I was successfull a few times and some people gave me some compliments and it gave me a massive unconscious boost to carry on with that tactic. Which has led to me improving it through practise and now forms a big part of my arsenal. All down to positive reinforcement really. So give a training partner a compliment on something they did well and see what effect it has. Ive made it a habit of always trying to give a compliment on something they did well after every roll. You run the risk of sounding condescending but the good vibes are worth it I think as these are the things you draw on when you are at a low point.<br />
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My instructer doesnt give compliments very often but when he does they hold more gravity. I very specifically remember the first time I got to roll fully, Id been waiting for a long time and was very determined. Landed a triangle quickly on a larger opponent. After the roll my instructer told me I did well, very simple and understated but I still carry that with me.<br />
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We put alot of effort into taking care of our physical health so that we can train but the mental aspects are just as important. If you attack every less experienced partner with the aim of submitting them as often and effortlessly as possible then you are gonna kill their confidence, which may hurt their ability and even their enjoyment of the art. Which is unforgivable.<br />
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Let me know if you see any interesting effects after giving someone some positive feedback.<br />
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<br />Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-32000628038805351322010-01-28T10:19:00.000-08:002010-01-28T10:37:54.163-08:00Jiu jitsu brotherhood wisdom"To maximize your potential as a jiu-jitsoka, it’s not enough to just head to class every day and go through the motions. You need to approach your training from several angles.<br /><br />I have a particular system which has worked for my students and I. It’s called the A.C.T. Model. This stands for Attribute Maximization, Conceptual Understanding, Technical Knowledge. This article will provide a general overview of this model. " -<br /><br />Very interesting concept from Nicolas Gregoriades who has just stuck it up on his website: <a href="http://jiujitsubrotherhood.com/2010/01/the-a-c-t-model/">Jiu jitsu brotherhood</a> (goto the link to read the whole article) . Ive mentioned Nic on here before and I quite like his cerebral approach to the complex problem of grappling. I think Ill hit him up for a private lesson one day just to get a better insight into his way of thinking,which may or may not be for me. I tend to think quite alot about BJJ and Ive often found it as much as a hinderence as an advantage.<br /><br />Matt Benyon over at <a href="http://martialfarts.fightlinker.com/">Martial farts</a> has been churning up some super awesome hyper mega material that makes me want to headbut a horse with creative jealousy. Go there, buy his shit and support him so I can be regularly entertained and inspired. <br /><br />Havnt been able to train as much as Id like due to Woking (where I live) roadworks which add another 20 mins onto my journey and make me late for my train. I dont want to ride there on the motorcycle because itll end up being a one way ticket to a private with helio. Its getting lighter though so perhaps soon.Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-63440531279039956292010-01-18T12:25:00.000-08:002010-01-18T12:53:11.813-08:00Now thats more like itFinally got in a good solid week of training, around 7.5 hours including a private I had with Andy. Felt quite achey at the end of it but felt it was definitely a good start to 2010. <br /><br />Private wise I didnt cover anything really specific just some niggling things:<br /><ul><li>Keeping them flat on their back when passing (turns out this was alot more important than I gave it credit for).</li><li>A tighter omoplata sweep ( I was getting the sweep but not keeping the position).</li><li>Knee on pressure (Break the habit of planting the foot on the ground)</li><li>Side control shrimping towards opponent (Ive been going the other way and its been working but it wont in the future.)</li><li>A bjj version of Baz Lurhmans "wear sunscreen", its gonna be awesome.</li></ul>With a few rolls inbetween for good measure. I put this into practise following the next sessions and even though quite small adjustments to stuff I was already doing it made a considerable difference I felt. Especially the first one, I felt I was limiting their ability to move considerably. <br /><br />I got raped in the no gi class, by pretty much everyone. My no gi really does suck. Was good to see Ryan back as I love our mad scramble fests, high lights were him getting a scissor takedown. Then trying it again where I imagined to jump and sit on on him like a balance ball. Then he got me in a banana split/crotch ripper. It was an hour and a half of pure sparring pretty much from many positions.<br /><br />The no gi class did help teach me a good lesson about wrestling though, as Ive been very complacent with just turtling and moving from there, but as people have improved that shit just doesnt fly anymore. Way to much effort now. So my new strategy was to stay on top and give them impression I wasnt gonna pull guard, once I stuff their attempts to get on top most people seem to switch to a bottom game (path of least resistance I guess). I should add that some people have the EXACT same idea...and are better wrestlers than me. Ive been using alot of guard recently so getting back to a proactive passing style felt good.<br /><br />Future thoughts are on more passing and sweeps. Got alot more to write about but Im gonna split it into a few posts.Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-24506735743063958342010-01-04T11:56:00.001-08:002010-01-04T12:03:16.741-08:00Tapping 10 000 times on the road to blackbeltJust found this interesting youtube vid, I normally dislike submissions 101 but Keith Owen is bonafide blackbelt. I mention it here to further highlight the importance of tapping.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/4JsEOI5sLRM&hl=en_GB&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/4JsEOI5sLRM&hl=en_GB&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Let me know what you think.Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-32211577566731197952010-01-03T11:12:00.000-08:002010-01-03T12:39:00.830-08:00Injuries and brazilian jiu jitsuBrazilian Jiu jitsu is a martial art that practises full resistance training with a strong emphasis on competitions, with a great deal of focus on how to render someone unconscious or broken. So injuries will inevitably happen. Control and a relaxed manner are advocated as well which makes it as safe as it is possible whilst still training with full resistance i.e someone trying to stop you and submit you with all their ability.<br /><br />Recently Ive heard and seen a couple of injuries. Almost all are freak accidents, like this recent one in new Zealand where young guy had a serious injury to the <a href="http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2009/12/15/1202380/new-zealand-grappler-seriously">neck</a>, where some of his vertebrae were broken whilst being stacked. One of our very own guys at the club had a freak injury as well where he landed badly on his head during a throw, he has had an operation and last I heard was doing well. So hopefully he will be back on the mats soon, so send Matt Jackson your positive vibes. Get well soon big guy.<br /><br />Ive been lucky and have never suffered a broken bone or serious injury, closest was in kent where my elbow made some rice krispy noises but no lasting damage. Ive been choked out a few times and that was kinda fun and was alot more enjoyable than you would think...<br /><br />So what can you do to help prevent injury?<br /><br /><ul><li>Train with people you trust, if you are brand new then typically the higher grades should have more control and be relaxed.</li><li>Be relaxed and controlled yourself, if you spaz out they might think thats a go ahead to spaz out to. </li><li>TAP, if you cant defend or escape TAP, dont wait for the pain or to be pushed to the limit. Even if nothing breaks that damage will add up if its often enough. TAP, snap or nap as the saying goes.</li><li>Be aware, sometimes legs,arms and fingers get tangled if you roll the wrong way something could pop. And there is often other people rolling right next to you who you might not notice.</li><li>Sit without leaning back on straight arms, if someone rolls into the back of them it will hurt.</li><li>Be a good training partner if you injure your training partners no one will want to train with you, no slams! dont knee them in the face! dont sandpaper their face! dont crank subs on. Control at all times.</li><li>Hygiene be clean! I dont want your staph, MRSA or ringworm. Cut your fingernails and toe nails!</li></ul><p>If you have a serious injury obviously listen to your doctor if its just a sore joint or muscle then theres a couple of things you can do:</p><ul><li>R.I.C.E - Rest, Ice, compression, Elevation. It helps alot.</li><li>Take care of yourself, try not to over train. Take your vitamins, some people advocate fish oils and glucosamine for joints. Make sure you sleep right and eat right.</li></ul>The most common injuries Ive seen are mostly elbow and knee related. Especially knee's as they can often put you out and can happen very suddenly, just the slight wrong angle and to much pressure at the wrong time can lead to something giving it seems. What Ive also seen alot is people coming back to early and training to hard on the injury. Be very carefull and let your partners know, as you are running the risk of putting yourself out for even longer.<br /><br />Like I said before accidents do happen but they arnt that often if you train with good people and do it right.Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-87086056300021809312009-12-31T17:35:00.000-08:002009-12-31T17:36:46.683-08:00Happy new year!<a href="http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs163.snc3/19049_228633138468_73743638468_3092656_2685524_n.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 366px; HEIGHT: 236px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs163.snc3/19049_228633138468_73743638468_3092656_2685524_n.jpg" /></a><br /><div></div>Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-77834515146928462602009-12-21T03:36:00.000-08:002009-12-21T04:07:42.473-08:00Catch up.Trainings going well, been paying attention to my reactionary thoughts while grappling. I used to notice an "arg to much effort" feeling when I was in someones closed guard. Now I notice a much more positive feeling of "you better do something special bucko because Im gonna pass, and Im gonna crush your soul while doing it". Obviously it doesnt always turn out that way but I certainly wouldnt be to annoyed if someone jumped guard on me now. Bottom game is feeling better as well, spending abit to much time under half guard and very little open guard. In my next private Ive chalked up "improve closed guard". Typically on bottom I find myself transitioning between full guard, half guard ( with preference to deep or long half guard), turtle and x guard. Plenty of kimura's Im spotting at the moment, the basic setup being a small explosive movement to get them to base with a hand, and then snatching that up for the kimura when they do.<br /><br />Underneath side control Im still continueing to attack from with a combo of reverse triangles, kimura's and sweeps. With my favourite being a kind of bottom crucifix position where I have trapped one of their arms between my legs. Severly limits their ability to transition or attack and opens up some interesting options depending on their response.<br /><br />Big congrats to our James Hardy (I used to call him spider noodles for the long time readers)who got gold in his division at the Abu Dhabi UK trials just gone, one of my favourite sparring partners who has a great approach to the game and is definitely one of our best. Also big congrats to Daniel Agard who I met a while ago on my travels, who won the absolute!. Young lad to, cant wait to see what he accomplishes.<br /><br />Heres some cool stuff Ive seen since my last post:<br /><br /><object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/8jvVObjQwwE&hl=en_GB&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/8jvVObjQwwE&hl=en_GB&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><br />True and funny!<br /><br />Jacare vs Matt Lindland available on <a href="http://www.mmascraps.com/">http://www.mmascraps.com/</a>.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/a8CL3ZE1COQ&hl=en_GB&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/a8CL3ZE1COQ&hl=en_GB&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br />Not bad Jeff :)<br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/EQioT-ceKi4&hl=en_GB&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/EQioT-ceKi4&hl=en_GB&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br />awesome.Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-84386353674389337712009-11-29T12:05:00.000-08:002009-11-29T12:29:34.279-08:00Training and catch upBeen busy the last 2 weeks so not as much training as I would like. On the plus side Im now Archery leader qualified under GNAS. Archery and BJJ? why not. Im also now riding a motorbike, a brand spanking new Yamaha 125YBR. My first vehicle of any kind so have been trying to gets to grips with that. Lots of adventures already.<br /><br />Had a great training session just gone, lots of stand up throwing practise and full stand up sparring. Recently remembered the strange grip seoi nage setup Micah at Novagen taught and I think Im gonna carry on working on that as I think it gives a nice option when I dont think the tomoe nage is a great idea. The grip relies on them gripping my lapel, I then grip their lapel over their arm on that same side with my other hand gripping their gripping arm sleeve. The throw then works with the same seio nage mechanics of stepping in and twisting, it bends their elbow up at abit of a funny angle which I think helps break down their defense.<br /><br />Another move that Ive seen pop up recently is the reverse triangle, probaly due to Braulio pulling it off against Galvao. The setup Im liking is when they go for a single underleg pass and you slip the free leg under, grip the offending arm and then as they pass the leg link up the triangle while creating room with your hips. I find it harder to finish than a normal triangle though even with pulling the leg and rolling into a reverse mount position.<br /><br />Cardio has dipped slightly from the break but am feeling alright. Have a private with Andy that Ive had since April! need to have a proper think about some stuff I need to work on and use it.<br /><br />Thoughts for this post:<br />Listen to your instructer!, even if something is working well for you if he/she says its not good then listen!. It might work now but it will probaly cause issues for you later, something they can see but you might not.<br /><br />Big congrats to Jude Samuel who won his first Pro mma fight!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=193951076897&ref=nf">Video link</a>Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-19457775793432057402009-11-01T06:23:00.000-08:002009-11-01T06:34:27.319-08:00POSTUREPosture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture<br />posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture posture<br /><br />Seriously, posture.<br /><br />So incredibly simple but so easily over looked. Andy gave us a really good lesson on saturday focusing on posture. Using your core and keeping your hips close to theirs, it seems most people naturally try and make a gap whilst in guard. But this just results in compromising your ability to keep good posture. Why is posture so important? well it means they cant even begin to set up most attacks let alone you try and escape them. In fact I find if I try attack someone in my guard with very good posture that I cant break I end up helping them to pass if anything.<br /><br />Made a point of concentrating just on posture in sparring, and I felt a big difference in myself and my opponents. No more getting triangled for me!Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-63684031773425333522009-10-29T11:24:00.000-07:002009-10-29T12:02:15.076-07:00Roger Gracie visits the clinic<div><div><div><div><div>For those on facebook you will need to view this post at <a href="http://www.jadonbjj.blogspot.com/">http://www.jadonbjj.blogspot.com/</a> to see the pics.<br /><br />Last saturday we had the honour of hosting Roger Gracie as visiting instructer. For those unfamiliar with Roger heres a quick bio from wikipedia:<br /><br />"Roger Gracie Gomes (born September 26, 1981) is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner. He was recently promoted to 2nd degree black belt by Carlos Gracie Jr. He is a member of the Gracie family, the son of Reyla Gracie (who is the daughter of Carlos Gracie) and Mauricio Motta Gomes (one of the six Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belts of Rolls Gracie). His most notable achievement to date is winning the ADCC Submission Wrestling World Championship in 2005, taking first place in the 88–98 kg and Open-weight categories by submitting all eight opponents—a feat that had not previously been achieved. He has also won the BJJ World Jiu-Jitsu Championship (the Mundials) a record 8 times including 6 time in this weight class and twice at open weight. " </div><div> </div><div>Ive met him on a few occasions and his always had a smile and a handshake for me (and everyone he meets). </div><div> </div><div>So there we were milling about and Roger steps and blows us all away with his chi:<br /></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/SungZSOiNYI/AAAAAAAAAG4/Xtk-BoeSZec/s1600-h/blogpic3.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 239px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398092353374401922" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/SungZSOiNYI/AAAAAAAAAG4/Xtk-BoeSZec/s320/blogpic3.jpg" /></a><br /></div><div>He taught a very nice judo outside trip and then a variation where you fake the trip and go for an osoto gari (major outer leg reap). According to Olympic coach Mark Earle who I trained with a while ago, osoto gari has the highest instances of knockouts. Because when properly executed with full force and momentum the uke lands on the top of his shoulders, neck and head....which would suck.</div><div> </div><div>Did some drills instead of some sparring with Sid who was abit injured, always a great partner with lots of usefull advice and observations.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/SunhKa5JWRI/AAAAAAAAAHA/55BXuBWNSHQ/s1600-h/blogpic1.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398093197514201362" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/SunhKa5JWRI/AAAAAAAAAHA/55BXuBWNSHQ/s320/blogpic1.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/SunhxiRF-7I/AAAAAAAAAHo/dqXCWIqlTmo/s1600-h/blogpic2.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 214px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398093869508590514" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/SunhxiRF-7I/AAAAAAAAAHo/dqXCWIqlTmo/s320/blogpic2.jpg" /></a><br /></div><div>He then taught a arm drag manuver. In the next lesson we focused on the knee through standing pass in ALOT of detail, pressure! PRESSURE!. </div><div></div><div> </div><div>We then did a fair amount of sparring.</div><div><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/SunhLEf0jUI/AAAAAAAAAHY/QD5dm0lKKr0/s1600-h/blogpic5.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398093208682270018" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/SunhLEf0jUI/AAAAAAAAAHY/QD5dm0lKKr0/s320/blogpic5.jpg" /></a></div><div> </div><div>I felt pretty good, starting to get better timing and setting up of the straight achilles. Cross choke from mount is everybodies friend.</div><div> </div><div>Whenever we get a guest instructer or special visitor it always results in crazy injuries. Everyone spars harder and tries to use more muscle, as if by a show of pure gripping strength they are gonna quadruple promote you. Anyone other people notice this?<br /><br />Roger was then flooded with people to take pics and sign belts, I dont know why but I can never bring myself to ask for a picture so I opted for sneaking into other peoples :P. I remember asking him if he ever got bored of all the people wanting pictures and so on and he replied very concisely "never".</div><div><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/SunhK-ovxlI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/8ll-5bmndmA/s1600-h/blogpic4.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 355px; HEIGHT: 220px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398093207109092946" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/SunhK-ovxlI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/8ll-5bmndmA/s320/blogpic4.jpg" /></a><br /><br /></div><div></div><div>And of course we had to have the big group picture.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/SunhLfbpYHI/AAAAAAAAAHg/PxlgN356YQc/s1600-h/blogpic6.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 367px; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398093215912517746" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/SunhLfbpYHI/AAAAAAAAAHg/PxlgN356YQc/s320/blogpic6.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Thats me sneaking behind Andy and Roger.<br /></div><div>I took the oppertunity to talk to Roger about his thoughts on my pilgrimage, he seemed quite positive about it although perhaps unsure why I am doing it. The guy is so relaxed I would be interested to see him stressed. So all in all a very fun lesson and it was great to have one of the greatest grapplers alive in the world teaching at the club. </div><div><br />Thank you to all those that took the pictures!.</div><div> </div></div></div></div></div>Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-41325662462901674212009-10-18T11:00:00.001-07:002009-10-18T12:11:10.254-07:00Carlson Gracie Camberley - Mark Earle judo seminarThis visit was slightly different to the others in that it was a seminar, with the main focus being judo but also in applying it to a BJJ context.<br /><br />Gary Lowe who from what I can tell is the heart and soul of the club picked me up from the station. To my amusement we were both sporting blue obi michi faixa rua belts!<br /><br />Mark Earle is the head judo coach for the GB Olympic team and holds the rank of 6th Dan (the lighthouse coloured belt). He has coached Great Britain in 3 Olympics!. His experience in BJJ is minimal but he made constant efforts to explain the techniques in a way that would help our jiu jitsu game.<br /><br />We started off with a light and speedy warm up of touch rugby and some kineastethics. He then made sure we were comfortable break falling, explaining that being comfortable with being thrown would help our stand up.<br /><br />We then went through a series of throws, always breaking it down to absolute basic level and then adding complexity. These footwork drills made a quick and significant difference. We covered seio nage (shoulder throw), ochigari (outer leg reap), a keraaaaazzy drop kata garuma variation (doing a front split and throwing your opponent side ways over you!) a forward and backward variation of that. And a butterfly Tomoe nage type throw which ended in mount, the setup to which was particularly tight.<br /><br />Mark had an assistant throughout called Danny, a GB judo international and nice guy. We went a few rounds of randori (stand up sparring) and when I had a go at Danny he was curtious enough not to smash me through the floor. Against my other opponents tomoe nage was my friend as usual but uchi mata is my deadly enemy. At one point I was paired against a taller opponent and on two, TWO! occasions I got nailed right in the tenders by a uchi mata calf.<br /><br />We then lined up on the wall and we each fought Danny, in a row, without a break with Mark scoring and explaining. There were atleast 10 of us...some atleast 20kg heavier than him. He did not lose a single judo point and beat everyone, although had his back taken a few times but always survived to matte (restart). Awesome thing to see, incredible cardio, heart and ability. Ill be cheering him on in the olympics if he makes the team.<br /><br />My fight against Danny:<br />I knew he was on to my tomoe nage so was tryng to keep him out of his element by attacking his legs. At one point I went for a flying armbar but he got his arm out, and engaged me in newaza. Went for an armbar of his own but I escaped. After standing back up he got me with a sweeeeet uchi mata, very nice feeling to be made so weightless...<br /><br />My camera messed up again so Im waiting on a Mark Phung from Carlson Gracie to upload the picture on facebook. Also had a roll with Mark which was good fun, who is the heaviest 62kg Ive ever engaged with! Mark was good enough to treat me to a protein shake after training which was pretty tasty.<br /><br />All in all I got a much better appreciation of judo and am keen for more, Mark gave me some compliments I feel very proud of.Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-21436882499758320812009-09-24T10:22:00.000-07:002009-10-02T15:13:31.024-07:00Thank you Faixa RuaJust wanted to say thank you on the blog to Faixa Rua for sending me a cool piece of kit to wear on the pilgrimage. The item in question is the Obi Michi wearable BJJ belt, also mentioned recently on Meerkatsu's blog. I first saw a similar item on an american website but was put off buying in fear of taxes. Its a great idea though and I expect it will do well, so Im more than willing to sport it to some clubs and comps.<br /><br /><br /><br />The item in question has split the BJJ community though, some think its abit cheesy (like 80's guitar solo's, others (myself included) think its awesome (like 80's guitar solo's).<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/SsZ6onPep3I/AAAAAAAAAGw/xfEXSmeUPU4/s1600-h/23-81-large.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388128842342639474" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/SsZ6onPep3I/AAAAAAAAAGw/xfEXSmeUPU4/s320/23-81-large.jpg" /></a><br /><br />The material is just like a normal gi belt although different to the normal faixa rua belts. Would I be taking it to far by adding my stripe to it?Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-75307599258971389772009-09-20T03:05:00.000-07:002009-09-21T12:56:28.372-07:00CharacterThere is more to Brazilian jiu jitsu than jiu jitsu, and brazilians for that matter. Character is important, and I think the training itself is a powerfull filter for those with the wrong sort of character. And I guess thats why you get so many guys and girls from different backgrounds but who get on well in the training environment, because of the similar traits needed. Ive often heard of this also being a sort of prequisite for promotion within the art. Even with boatloads of ability you will not get far if you dont treat your training partners well, respect your instructer and dedicate yourself.<br /><br />I think club compatriots invest alot of time, effort and emotion into each other. Things we cannot afford to give everyone, and definitely not those who have shown themselves not to deserve it. Im not just talking about the guy who slams you to escape the triangle, Im talking about the guy who ignores the struggling white belt or refuses to help get a guy ready for a big fight or comp. The guy who only fights those 10kg lighter and then makes excuses when he gets put with a bigger guy. The guy who demands his instructer promotes him or he will go elsewhere.<br /><br />Luckily I dont see those guys very often, they dont last. And the ones that do have a very lonely road.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.brooklynstreetart.com/theBlog/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/brooklyn-street-art_james_jean_maze_jonathan_levine-400x569.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 342px; HEIGHT: 499px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://www.brooklynstreetart.com/theBlog/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/brooklyn-street-art_james_jean_maze_jonathan_levine-400x569.jpg" /></a>Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-40732623717308890682009-09-09T03:35:00.000-07:002009-09-09T04:19:53.747-07:00Mill Hill RGA Grand opening and visitIm battered. Trained Friday – was good. Trained Saturday – was good. Trained Sunday for 4 hours -was awesome. Typically the better the training the more battered and sore I am. On Sunday I attended the grand opening of Mill Hill RGA’s new venue. Myself, Dan, Dave and Rich were representing our front. Loads of people were there, must of been atleast 60. Including black belts Roger Gracie and Nic G. Saw Roger Gracie in the toilets and decided not to shake his hand but did contemplate jumping him and putting on a RNC while he was at the urinal. Just so I could die a legend.<br /><br /><br />Even more awesome was running into some familiar faces, Lawrence venter from RGA Wimbledon; The Jones family; Mathew Benyon from martial farts; Semour yang from meerkatsu;Alex Hare; and of course Nick Brooks the instructer at Mill Hill.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs277.snc1/10424_288720520584_622525584_8873538_7731481_n.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 349px; HEIGHT: 259px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs277.snc1/10424_288720520584_622525584_8873538_7731481_n.jpg" /></a><br />Left to right: Alex, Seymour, Matt,myself,Darren Vitry<br /><br />Tons of people were there so drilling was abit cramped but still learnt some good stuff. Focusing a on a flower sweep variation I dont know the proper name of. Gripping the trousers rather than underhooking the leg though, then going for the sweep, or armbar or switching the grip and going for triangle or omoplata!.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs277.snc1/10424_288720520584_622525584_8873538_7731481_n.jpg"></a><br />We then Sparred....for forever!. Me and Mathew had a tussle which was fun, I was able to dodge the triangles (just!!) but couldnt get to far in setting up much. Then sparred Lawrence which was also awesome, tried for some dodgy americana's from under side control as is my custom but couldnt finish it. Think he tapped me with a choke at some point. Sparred another big RGA blue belt guy Darren Vitry. He gave some great feedback which was really usefull!. Sparred Nick Brooks a whole buncha times! who is one of my favourite people in the world to spar for his feedback and style. I always learn a huge amount from this guy and its always fundemental basic stuff that is so vital. Me and Dale (Mill hill Orange belt - 6 golds in a row: if you meet him he will let you in on this little known secret) met again in a war, this time ending in abit of a stalemate with to be fair the points going to Dale. He has improved his control and tightness tremendously since our last encounter, if I dont step it up he will win round 4 soundly!. In summary I didnt tap anyone...but my defense was pretty good I thought.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs277.snc1/10424_288720320584_622525584_8873510_6492549_n.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 389px; HEIGHT: 257px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs277.snc1/10424_288720320584_622525584_8873510_6492549_n.jpg" /></a><br />Pre Carnage<br /><a href="http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs277.snc1/10424_288720325584_622525584_8873511_5573544_n.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 344px; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs277.snc1/10424_288720325584_622525584_8873511_5573544_n.jpg" /></a><br />Nick and Roger then handed out some belts! a few blues and stripes and a very notable purple to Daniel Strauss!, big congrats to him! purple at 18!<br /><br />Me and my boys then stayed on the mat as we will carry on sparring/training till they kick us off. Nick Brooks shares our enthusiasm and pretty much gave us a private for an hour! Gave me alot to work on, which is a great feeling. POSTURE! HIP PRESSURE! GRIPS! TIMING!!<br /><br />Had a fantastic time! one of my best visits so far.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs211.snc1/7817_127552568659_504568659_2502364_1560963_n.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 354px; HEIGHT: 273px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs211.snc1/7817_127552568659_504568659_2502364_1560963_n.jpg" /></a></div><div>Im in there I promise.</div><div><a href="http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs231.snc1/7817_127135983659_504568659_2496696_6171649_n.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 370px; HEIGHT: 441px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs231.snc1/7817_127135983659_504568659_2496696_6171649_n.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br />I had a case of camera envy so all the photos you can thank Semour Yang at <a href="http://www.meerkatsu69.blogspot.com/">Meerkatsu</a>, Mathew Benyon at <a href="http://www.martialfarts.fightlinker.com/">Martialfarts</a> and <a href="http://www.millhillju-jitsuclub.com/">Millhill RGA BJJ</a>.<br /></div><div><br /><br /></div>Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-2511779098166079972009-09-05T07:47:00.000-07:002009-09-05T08:02:38.178-07:00ApoligiesI Have recently moved to Woking and do not have internet access yet, hence the lack of updates. Doing a pilgrimage visit to millhill tommorow for their grand opening, should be a blast been looking forward to it for a loooong time.<br /><br /><br /><br />Training is going well. Been practising the no posture pass and getting some results with it, Andy helped alot in pointing out its weaknesses which gives me a better understanding of how to impliment it. Been doing abit better recently with a slight change in the way I approach sparring. Be as boring as possible!, if Im passing do not do anything untill Ive got posture even if I have to spend the whole time fighting for it. Or not trying any attacks untill Ive got good grips and broken them down etc etc. Fewer moves the better. Will see where it gets me, possibility of becoming to passive. But am enjoying it and has helped. <br /><br />Will update after millhill.Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-55696190736839090922009-08-13T14:05:00.000-07:002009-08-13T14:21:14.138-07:00Just everday trainingIt occured to me I havnt blogged about normal everyday BJJ training for awhile. So thought I would include a short update.<br /><br />Its going well!. I regard my topgame as my A-game but feel quite comfortable on my back in good or bad positions. Passing wise Ive really tried to slow it down and find the angles, rather than trying to be acrobatic and leaving to much room. My plan is to frustrate and slowly but surely crush their souls untill I can no longer ignore the juicy morsel of the submission. This video here that I saw on Christian Graugarts blog really gave me alot of food for thought, on pressure and angles when passing.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/gYBLirtGJBs&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/gYBLirtGJBs&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><br /><br />I found this pass a really interesting way of using hip pressure and a low posture to create an angle to pass. Goes by many names it seems so Ill let the video explain:<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/AMfKdjf0A2g&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/AMfKdjf0A2g&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/wQxCVjyVjlQ&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/wQxCVjyVjlQ&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Found through bullshido and then Aesopians blog.<br /><br />Been doing more no-gi training which is fun, my shoot is very crappy I prefer to clinch and go roman greco style. But I definitely need to work on the shoot. I keep on trying a no-gi tomoe nage but without much luck unless I have a guillotine type grip. Scrambles are definitely more fun no-gi, something I feel I do ok in but I definitely miss those collar grips.Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-37489871025246164202009-08-11T03:15:00.000-07:002009-08-11T04:25:35.865-07:00MMA and muay thai monday madnessYesterday I attended the MMA session for the first time and the muay thai for the 2nd. Both were taken by Mike Wood. I always enjoy training with Mike as his a similar bodyshape to me and so stuff he shows me I know will work for me as well. His also a good coach. Coaching ability is nearly as important as knowledge in my opinion and more important than competition ability. Being the best in the world doesnt mean you can teach, knowing everything doesnt mean you can teach either. But Mike has good knowledge, great coaching ability and competes regularly. He reminds me of a slightly shorter Hugh Laurie, which matches perfectly with Micks giant Tony Robinson.<br /><div>MMA class:</div><br /><div>Did a fun warm up that got a sweat going and then training revolved around a circuit.Station 1 & 2 medicine ball situp drill, 3 deadlifts, 4 ground and pound on bag, 5 clinch striking and takedowns on bag. 1 round at each station doing the circuit 3 times. </div><br /><div>We then did some partner work, one guy going for takedown the 2nd just defending. Minute each. Going for 2 minutes. Did this first with Kieran who got me with a sweet no gi uchimata, I tried a no gi tomoe nage and we had a chuckle about that. Im not a great fan of shooting for the takedown, preffering to clinch and take them down from there. Then partnered with Rich who DOES have a great shoot, Rich is abit closer to my size so I was able to impose abit more in the clinch pinning him to the wall. But still pretty tough to take down. Good session, really enjoyed it cant wait to start some sparring.</div><br /><div>Thai class:</div><br /><div>Another warm up. 2 brazilians walked in wondering about classes so I chatted to them trying to be part helpful part salesman. One of them mentions how he also appreciates the muay along with the bjj, I mention anderson silva (been a fan of him for a long time). Brazilian guy 1 then asks me if anderson is here!!, I say no just saying I was a fan. Guy then mentions how he trained a little BJJ with anderson who showed him some stuff in brazil. He also mentions how they found out about us from another martial arts club. Precision martial arts in blackwater (<a href="http://www.pmartialarts.com/">http://www.pmartialarts.com/</a>) Their posters at blackwater station had given me a misinformed opinion of them so was good to hear that the instructer was a good guy, especially as he was reccomending us. So Im trying to repay the favour by putting their link in this post, so check them out if your in the area. Anyway back to training!.</div><br /><div>Technique was: jab, cross, hook, push kick, round house kick. Im still chambering kicks and my punches are very loose. But Mike gave me some great positive feedback so I felt good about improving. Im right handed and my partner told me my left leg's kick was considerably stronger, maybe Im forcing the right to much. Mike then worked on me abit trying to get me to turn my hips more, once I slowed it down I think it made more sense to my body. Rather than just going mental.</div><br /><div>We then just had abit of a free mat for 30 mins. Did some no gi sparring with Toby a hefty polish guy, whose calmed down alot since starting. Worked on pressure from top of side control and escaping side control, with some random rolling inbetween.</div><br /><div></div><div>Other news:</div><br /><div>Started following Rafel Lovato jr's blog <a href="http://www.lovatojr.com/">http://www.lovatojr.com/</a></div><div>Andy and bunch of other guys are going to ADCC to watch so ill be teaching some classes while they are away.</div><div> </div><a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v233/kmeyers/motivator4753024pt6.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 383px; HEIGHT: 242px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v233/kmeyers/motivator4753024pt6.jpg" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-56307027665309270462009-08-02T16:01:00.000-07:002009-08-02T16:23:00.301-07:00Stages of personal development within BJJAlthough still at a very infantile stage in my BJJ development I have noticed a series of changes in my attitudes. And wondered if anyone had experienced a similar pattern or any changes in themselves for that matter. Regarding BJJ or normal life.<br /><br /><strong>Stage one:</strong><br />I was obsessed with learning as much as I can, as fast as I could. With quantity seeming to take preference over quality. I start eating better and take up regular running.<br /><br /><strong>Stage two:</strong><br />I constantly talk about bjj to my disinterested friends and family, and they quickly rename it manhugging. At the slightest wiff of alcohol I cant help but play grappling with friends against their will. I insist on showing friends my newest moves. I start getting very competitive in training and search specifically for lesser known novelty submissions online. I discover Eddie Bravo.<br /><br /><strong>Stage three:</strong><br />I feel very confident in my ability, and sometimes hope that some lone chav fancies a rumble. I internally debate whether to double leg, mount and pound or flying guillotine with knee's. I examine all the other men in the pub, paying close attention to their ears and decide I am the mightiest.<br /><br /><strong>Stage four:</strong><br />I feel the highs and lows of winning and losing in competition. I feel responsible for the success of my club compatriates and feel elated when they do well. I know longer seek the submission in all sparring matches, looking to help those with less experience.<br /><br /><strong>Stage five</strong>:<br />I feel more humbled in my abilities, less aggresive and with no wish to be involved in conflict or to use what Ive learnt in a real setting. I am relaxed and easy going, I apply this attitude to all parts of my life. Giving all my focus on basic techique principles and intricacies for weeks on end. I no longer care about winning or losing in sparring as long as Im learning or helping someone else learn. I also find I am able to do a suprising amount of tasks with my feet that I couldnt do prior, and often just lie on the floor feeling more comfortable.<br /><br /><strong>Stage six</strong>:<br />profit?<br /><br />I wonder what change I will next experience since Ive still got a lifetime of jiu jitsu ahead. Please comment if you have experience any personal changes like this.Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-8241264398595268282009-08-02T03:43:00.000-07:002009-08-03T11:58:36.771-07:00MMA DartfordJust returned from Dartford MMA. Good buddy Terry Valler drove me down. Terry had been to this club a while ago so it was nice having someone who could introduce me.Dave the instructer got stuck in traffic so unfortuantly couldnt make it. Fresh purple belt Gary took the class, which was very good. Technique wise it was uchimata (inner thigh throw). Uchimata to knee on to armbar. Armbar backwards roll escape if only 1 leg. Armbar stack escape if they have both. I always have trouble with uchimata, more so than any other throw I would say.<br /><br />Then sparring!Sparred my drill partner who was quite a young kid but has plenty of promise. He opted for the headlock whilst I opted to playing on my back. At one point he got some good pressure when I had half guard. Also defended well when I had him in mount. Mounted triangle however proved to sneaky for him.<br /><br /><br />As is my custom I asked Gary for a role. Was very relaxed and he was keeping an eye out over the class whilst rolling. I was opting for a brabo grip/choke to armbar type deal whilst looking for sweeps. Thought Id sunk the armbar but gary escaped very well using just what he had taught. And then he choked me somehow from a position I was certain I was safe in, turns out this is his thing. We went again and I ended up in his guard where he tried I choke I was pretty sure would only work if he was on top. Top hand forcing one lapel across the throat and the other pulling down on the other lapel. I postured and straightlocked my arms whilst thinking "no problems here". But then I felt myself going deeper down the rabbit hole and had to tap. He let go and we went to go again, but I couldnt move my hand or my face,eyes, or body. I was out....but still conscious just unable to move, wearing a stupid grin on my face. This lasted probaly about 5 seconds and I could feel myself swaying but then I felt ok and just had to sit against the wall for a little bit. Eerie.<br /><br /><br />Then rolled with a whitebelt and a bluebelt where my brabochoke armbar combo paid off a little better. Both were really cool and relaxed guys, and focused on technique and not muscling anything. Also tried some "long guard" that Micah taught me on thursday. Had a fantastic time, and this is another club I would reccomend!. Very nice mats to roll on aswell. After the session we went for some tea/coffee at the cafe just round the corner. Turns out Gary is a green lantern fan! always fun to meet fellow geeky BJJ'ers, more of a batman guy myself but with the GL film looking likely Im taking more of an interest.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs131.snc1/5616_243557810028_554830028_8153858_5260164_n.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 387px; HEIGHT: 277px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs131.snc1/5616_243557810028_554830028_8153858_5260164_n.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Visit their website for more details on the club: <a href="http://www.dartfordmma.com/">http://www.dartfordmma.com/</a>Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-78868744949029146492009-08-02T03:35:00.000-07:002009-08-02T03:43:06.655-07:00Novagen SuttonHad a great time at novagen sutton. The club has only recently opened so was a small class, but great guys. Micah was a very friendly and easy to like guy. Micah also has a club in south africa that he started with his brother in Durban. One of the first if not the first BJJ club. They travelled around to different clubs in Brazil and UK. Micah is a brown belt.<br /><br />Technique wise we covered an overhook to cross choke, with then options of the straight arm lock, triangle or omoplata.<br /><br />Micah also gave me some great tips on the long range half guard which I was abit ignorant of. As Ive been using alot of deep halfguard but been getting flattened to much. Very usefull to be able to change range. Ill post more about half guard variations in the future.<br /><br />We then sparred, me and a blue belt had a fun match. Got caught in a triangle which I managed to escape using the trusty catdip escape and then single lapel choke once I had tired his legs out, but didnt finish. Was quite an even match and couldnt control after passing or finish anything from guard. We had abit of a leglock tussle with him getting the better of achilles lock, I didnt tap and tried to work a calf slice of my own. On second glance I probaly should of tapped to the lock as it was tight and painfull, just not enough for me to expect damage.<br /><br />2nd Roll was with Micah which was enjoyable. But odd. As far as I could see, he never moved. I just simply jumped about and rolled myself into submissions. Another thing Ive noticed with instructers is they giggle to themselves mirthfully whenever I try my cartwheel pass for open/butterfly guard.<br /><br />3rd Roll was with a guy new to the art, he was calm and had pretty good posture. Still learning the ropes obviously but was enjoyable and I worked on that long distance half guard.<br />Had the usual nightmares with the camera, turns out it has a timer that micah found!. Micah also gave me a patch which was really nice to get, good looking patch to. You can check out there website: <a href="http://www.bjj.co.za/">http://www.bjj.co.za/</a><br /><br />If you get the chance and find yourself in sutton, go train with these guys. They are right opposite the train station above a gym so very convenient.<br /><br />MMA Dartford this saturday with my buddy Terry. Looking forward to it! <a href="http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs142.snc1/5256_242358750028_554830028_8127922_7361574_n.jpg%22%3Esnc1/hs142.snc1/5256_242358750028_554830028_8127922_7361574_n.jpg%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20/%3E"><img style="WIDTH: 388px; HEIGHT: 270px; CURSOR: hand" src="http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs142.snc1/5256_242358750028_554830028_8127922_7361574_n.jpg" /></a>Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-91598616142920565642009-07-24T02:10:00.000-07:002009-07-24T02:34:31.997-07:00Muay Thai - my first lesson<a href="http://torontobjj.com/images/muay-thai.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 355px; HEIGHT: 271px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://torontobjj.com/images/muay-thai.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Yesterday I had my first lesson of Muay Thai kickboxing. Really enjoyed it, I have done some striking before In the form of san da (chinese kickboxing) but on recent reflection the coach was abit of a numpty. This class however was taken by Mick Walker who Ive known for a while through the BJJ classes, Mick really knows his stuff and has a great eye for detail. Perfect for a good striking coach. For some reason Mick reminds me of a slightly larger and more violent version of Tony Robinson. Mick takes the thursday classes and Mike Wood takes the monday's. Really looking forward to Mikes class as well.<br /><p>Some thing I didnt realise was long time training buddy Kieran has been doing the class since its inception some time ago. So thats 2nd dan judo, blue belt BJJ and experienced muay thai striker - oh dear mr opponent I do not envy you.<br /></p><p>We did a long warm up that was pretty good. Then one of the guys decided today was the day they wanted to work on some body conditioning!. So 50 leg kicks to the thighs each side and 50 kicks to the abdomen both legs!, and 20 kicks to the fore arms both legs!. Mick then got me working on some basic stuff with a partner. Jab and cross, Mick got me driving from the back foot on the cross which added alot more power. We then moved on to leg kicks, Mick got me to spin alot more on the ball of my foot and corrected my distancing. We then worked on elbows, I was doing more of a fore arm smash so he got me using the boney point. With elbows he got us using what is called "long guard". Which is when they have their arms outstretched, ineffective for punching but great for elbows following kicks.</p><br /><br />Then with swapping with my partner that was it, almost 2 hours mind you. Enjoyed myself alot and if I can get the hang of this striking malarchy then you might see me dabble in some MMA. The club is just at this moment organising a MMA team and training sessions so thats motivated me abit. Its invite only though, and you either gotta have some smoking striking or atleast a blue at BJJ. So I qualify, but want to get my striking up to a decent standard first. Just so I can survive enough to pull x- guard and juggle my opponent like a beach ball.Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-39611940212708571622009-07-11T07:24:00.000-07:002009-07-14T16:16:34.039-07:00Must.get.back.on.trackBeen a loooong time since my last update, life has just been stepping in the way. But Ive been steadily building up a library of content that Ive been dieing to post. Went on a barge trip around France and have been working quite abit which has slowed training annoyingly. And the pilgrimage, but Im hoping to put that right very soon.<br />Heres some holiday snaps though:<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/Sl0PaZEP9OI/AAAAAAAAAGg/0crkuVRsQJY/s1600-h/P1000382.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358456077720483042" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/Sl0PaZEP9OI/AAAAAAAAAGg/0crkuVRsQJY/s320/P1000382.JPG" /></a><br />Showing off my guns at this cool resteraunt. I had snails but avoided the horse burger. <div><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/Sl0O9Cc8w-I/AAAAAAAAAGY/gv4GjthphH8/s1600-h/P1000377.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358455573433861090" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/Sl0O9Cc8w-I/AAAAAAAAAGY/gv4GjthphH8/s320/P1000377.JPG" /></a><br />From this holiday I gained 2kg's in about a week and a very fond love of Desperado's!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/Sl0Ohpkme3I/AAAAAAAAAGQ/dphSOBVYqMc/s1600-h/P1000317.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358455102898600818" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/Sl0Ohpkme3I/AAAAAAAAAGQ/dphSOBVYqMc/s320/P1000317.JPG" /></a><br />Bringing the boat into a lock, we did about 50 of these!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/Sl0RJCos0WI/AAAAAAAAAGo/NDJsuxfAo_k/s1600-h/P1000479.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358457978664833378" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fu4v3UwgV0Q/Sl0RJCos0WI/AAAAAAAAAGo/NDJsuxfAo_k/s320/P1000479.JPG" /></a><br /></div><p></p><div>Giving the camera's a show.</div><div><br /><strong>Club news:</strong><br /><br />Big bunch of our guys recently got promoted to blue, which is fantastic. Myself and some of the older blues each got a stripe.<br /><br />Couple of medals from the british open so big congrats to the guys who do well there, especially Rich who Ive been training a fairbit with in his private lessons. Very steady progression.<br /><br />The guys also held a 6 hour grapplethon at the academy to raise money for a hospice one of our guys works at. Was a great success and everyone did spiffingly. Matt apperantly lost over 5kg'sin sweat.<br /><a href="http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs105.snc1/4778_102880376090_513206090_2580427_4344742_n.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 340px; HEIGHT: 251px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs105.snc1/4778_102880376090_513206090_2580427_4344742_n.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><strong>Pilgrimage news:</strong><br /><br />Aaarg its been killing me being unable to get the momentum going. But its not dead I promise! the dream is still alive. Camberly, Mill hill, Haslemere, mataleon, bjj school battersea, Zt fight skool brighton! Im looking at you!!!<br /><br />The <a href="http://www.grapplingartsassociation.org/">GAA</a> (grappling arts association) also just offered me complimentary insurance and membership which is very generous of them so Ill be sporting a patch in support. These guys do a great job so check them out.<br /><br /><strong>Other news!:</strong><br /><br />Check this awesome video of <a href="http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=1102745223041">Cobrinha showing off his Capoiera</a> .<br />Also funnily enough, Cobrinha asked on his facebook page for questions for a fan interview and he was kind enough to select one of <a href="http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=1102745223041#/note.php?note_id=98455496475">mine</a>. Its in the background/history section.<br /><br />Check out both these blogs. Both are excellent and use quite different formats:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.mmaunltd.com/feature-detail.asp/NewsID/128/a-laymans-journey-into-brazilian-jiu-jitsu.htm">Laymans journey into BJJ</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.sherdog.net/forums/f12/moving-brazil-05-06-2009-a-969605/">Moving to Brazil</a></div></div>Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3835876299232101320.post-89911554417145110322009-06-02T01:48:00.000-07:002009-06-02T02:31:18.772-07:00Carlson Gracie Hammersmith - stop 10! tour is 7.5% complete!<div>Just came back from Carlson Gracie Hammersmith. Had a great time and was made to feel very welcome, good session run by Wilson junior. That place is hot!. On walking in you ascend up a set of stairs lined with photo's from the last 8 years, the place is well worn and I can the jiu jitsu. Funnily enough noticed a picture of one of the instructers and my instructer reffing his fight.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Got in very early but it gave me a chance to observe their basics class and to talk to some of their guys, including a canadian called Vince who seemed to be a member of staff. I say hello to Wilson junior their main instructer. Then I get to meet Dickie their other blackbelt instructer who with Simon Hayes (another blackbelt)sorted my faixa rua gi's. Simon gives me a very warm welcome and I feel good about training here.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Class was pretty busy, met some very cool people and had some enjoyable conversations. Covered the toreando and a bunch of counters, including some crazy knee on head bow and arrow type choke from top turtle. As is my custom I wanted to roll with the instructer. So I got to roll with Simon Hayes, Dickie AND Wilson. Only the 2nd time Ive seen 3 bjj blackbelts in the same room never mind getting to spar with them. Was great fun though and each of them gave me some different and really usefull pointers. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>First up Simon Hayes:</div><br /><div>Big guy and tough. Initially pulled guard a few times but couldnt stop his pass for toffee, he did the single lapel stack choke on me which I love. Picked up on a new detail on gripping the trouser legs. At some point I got figure four footlocked. In his guard I never got a chance to pass and was defending collar chokes and scissor sweeps plenty and getting caught plenty. Defended a few moves but got caught in some subs I cant even describe.Simon gave me some praise for my hip movement which made me feel good about myself, as its easy to get down when being totally outclassed.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Next Dickie Martin:</div><br /><div>Flexable and triangly. Was in his guard mostly, and found myself getting caught in to many triangles. I did have one hand in and one out (a bad habit of mine) but the hand that was in was by his thigh so in my mind should be safe. Dickie demonstrated how it was not and that if I moved it to his knee I could then block the elbow coming out, but would be better off just using 2 in or 2 out. Another fun roll.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The boss - Wilson junior:</div><br /><div>PRESSURE. Arg man...seriously, pressure!. He let me make the first moves but he made sure always to have a good grip. He commented on the importance of grip fighting and how it gets them to play your game. Also got triangled here plenty, trying to work on what Dickie had shown me. But if Wilson got a grip, it was game over straight away - he as able to pull my arm right through. At one point he was just holding side control on me and I couldnt move much so I just waited for a gap. 15 or so seconds go by and Im finding it hard to breath and am thinking about tapping, 5 more seconds and Im feeling very claustrophobic and short of air. I thrash about abit and luckily he changes position before kimuring me from a very odd angle. Another 5-10 seconds and I would of been extremely uncomfortable. He shows me how he put on the extra pressure by getting hip to hip and putting his weight on my diapragm. Great roll and learnt alot inbetween tapping every 5 seconds. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Another guy I dont know asks to go no-gi with me. Simon says something about him being very old friends with Braulio. Simon tells him to go easy which worries me more. Was fun rolling with this guy, think I should of been more attacking though I was putting myself into needless guillotines and could of imposed myself more. He covers my mouth BJ Penn style, neck cranks me and goes for a heel hook - but to be fair he does them with control and does not crank or use to much strength. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I was to be truthfull expecting a very different experience and Im glad I had the oppertunity to correct my assumptions. They dont care where you are from, everyone is welcome and they treat visitors very well. I felt proud to recieve a class Osssss meant for me. Very friendly bunch.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs003.snc1/4149_205442995028_554830028_7167544_1869835_n.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 388px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 263px" alt="" src="http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs003.snc1/4149_205442995028_554830028_7167544_1869835_n.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div> </div><div>Thank you Carlson Gracie Hammersmith for the good training.</div>Jadon Ortlepphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06394508550875825995noreply@blogger.com2