Wednesday, 18 January 2012

Reasons for starting Martial Arts

Why does anybody decide to start learning a martial art. For some people it's self defense. For others it's for fun, sport or the lure of a black belt. Many people start for fitness and social reasons.
In my opinion these are all great reasons to start. Any reason to start that's not simply for the sake of causing harm is fine in my book. I started because as a teenager I became facinated with what I saw in Kung Fu movies and fighting video games. It looked cool and flashy and I really wanted a black belt. I still play the games, watch the movies and I'm still training but it's become more about becoming the kind of black belt or person in general that I want to be.
Whatever it is that gets you into a dojo for the first time may not end up being what keeps you there.
Make the most of your training, have goals and have fun.
See you on the mats.

Thursday, 10 November 2011

2011 Good Start

I've been told by most coaches, starting a martial art group is tough but rewarding. I have to admit it is tough but nothing outweighs the satisfaction of seeing students make what you teach work for them.
Starting in the fourth term of the year was a gamble but if anything was a good practice run and reality check.
I know now I will need to aggressively promote Guardant Ju-Jutsu as a Martial Arts class. Merely starting a new grappling team and hoping people will join who have shown interest in the past has had average results.

My own training in 2011 has been amazing. Being graded to Green belt in Judo by Maurie Staples was a highlight as was winning the trophy for "Best Technique Seniors" at the club championships for my "Osaekomi" or pinning technique.
I have to give credit and thanks to my friend Bryan for training with me twice sometimes three times a week in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as well as traditional Ju-Jutsu. He has kept it real and kept me honest catching me with a couple of sneaky "Hadaka-jime" or rear naked chokes.

So bring on 2012 whatever it throws at us, zombie apocalypse, burning rain, alien invasion who knows.
One thing is for sure, it will be a big year with plenty of new developments for me and the Guardant Team.

Merry Christmas everyone. Take it easy over the break and be safe so we can all train hard when we come back.

Wednesday, 5 October 2011

HERE WE GO!

There's a new Martial art school in town ''Guardant Submission Wrestling & Jiu Jitsu.'' The first classes will begin on 24/10/11
 We have plenty of room to grow in the Napier Judo Club's Dojo at 13 Peddie street Taradale Napier. Kids from 5 years old can join in the fun on Mondays at 6:00pm to 6:30pm where they will learn fundamental techniques and play grappling specific games.
Adults train Mondays and Wednesdays 6:30pm till 7:30pm
Bring shorts and t-shirt or rash top. Wear a Gi/grappling uniform if you want.
Your first session is FREE and you have no obligation to join. Hope to see plenty of new faces on the mat. Positive people, willing to learn & share welcome. Bring a friend if you want to. Parents are more than welcome to stay and watch.

Sunday, 31 July 2011

Starting Anyway

I was supposed to be teaching kids & adults classes in submission wrestling beginning of the term but it seems there has been issues with the premises I want to use. Apparently it's not available anymore or at least not just yet. So unfortunately the kids program will have to begin at a later date.
I can however continue with the adults program from 6:30pm to 7:30pm Mondays & Wednesdays in my garage. Space is very limited so contact me for details at waynemperry@hotmail.com or call/txt 021 2563770