Source: http://www.dartfordbjj.com/2011/09/new-firday-class-in-ilford-fitness.html
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Pan Ams 2007, Submissions Highlight
BudoVideos.com put up a 26 minute highlight reel of submissions from the 2007 Pan Ams. Here’s my tally of techniques.
TOEHOLD Toehold countered with an even better toehold.
TRIANGLE Reverse triangle from rear mount.
ARMBAR Knee on belly with gift wrap, try to mount but fall down to guard and get armbar.
ARMBAR Closed guard sweep to belly down armbar when they try to push back.
KIMURA to ARMBAR to REAR COLLAR CHOKE Kimura grip from side control, switch to armbar,…
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/aesopian/~3/0av6-UBzsNk/
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
I?m really feeling much better? I think I?ll go for a walk.
Really fun class tonight. Small group. Nine, including me. with several white belts. I covered class with Scott Y. tonight. Bingo had to fulfill his civic duty. After warm-ups, we worked a couple of basic techniques. I showed the guys a sweep I like, the basic tripod sweep. The following video is very similar to [...]
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/jwDV/~3/dlV0VfGaRbU/
Monday, February 27, 2012
Gi Review: Ronin Brand Gold Class and Insignia gis
Summary
Two very different gi types from same brand. Both models share the same high levels of quality and value for money but I found one of them in particular to be ultra comfortable, with a near perfect fit.
Disclosure: The contents of this report are my own opinions. I have in the past worked with a number of fightwear brands, including Ronin Brand, on various projects which are unconnected with this product.
Introduction
I must admit, before the owner of the fightwear store Kinjisan contacted me, I had never heard of Ronin Brand before. Kinjisan is a proper physical store located in New York and Ronin Brand is their own martial arts uniform brand covering a variety of styles, including judo, karate and BJJ. It sounds like one of those gi companies you sort of heard of somewhere, but never saw anyone wearing. This has changed a lot in the past few months as Ronin Brand has been vigorously marketed on the internet and there have been a number of recent blogger reviews for their two leading BJJ gi models, the Insignia and the Fighter (links at the end of this report). This review will look at their lesser known Gold Class gi, a goldweave model, versus the more popular Insignia, a pearl weave model.
Size, Weight and Other Stats
Gold Class A1 in centimetres (second figure is after three 30 degree washes)
A: 168/163
B: 77/74
C: 60/59
D: 16/15.5
E: 54/53
F: 95/88.5
G: 23/22
Jacket = 1.5Kg
Trousers = 0.6Kg
Price = $114.95
Insignia A2 in centimetres (second figure is after three 40 degree washes)
A: 163/161
B: 79/77
C: 60/58.5
D: 17/7
E: 57/55
F: 96/90.5
G: 25/24
Jacket = 1.1Kg
Trousers = 0.6KG
Price = $129.95
Looking at the figures above, the most interesting aspect to note is the weight difference. The Insignia, despite being a bigger size (A2) weighs only 1.7Kg in total whereas the Gold Class (A1) weighs 2.1Kg. The Gold Class shrunk by a slightly larger margin than the Insignia overall. In both models, the trousers shrank by quite a large margin.
 |
| Gold Class (top) and Insignia (bottom), note the more tapered cut of the white gi |
Details
Both gi models are very plain, with just an embroidered patch on the sleeve but the Insignia is notable for the inclusion of branded tape running along most of the inside seams and on the outside of the trouser leg. With previous gis, I have found that the logo tape can be horribly scratchy and uncomfortable on my skin. But the Insignia tape was as smooth as silk. I definitely did not feel any discomfort - although this reviewer experienced otherwise.
The collars of both gis are covered with basic twill cotton fabric. The Insignia had the much thicker collar but I noticed some of the stitching to be a bit sloppy and coming apart. The Gold Class had zero stitching problems. I liked that non-branded seam tape on the inside cuffs, very comfortable and strong.
Both gis are well reinforced throughout. The Insignia trouser cuffs in particular were well constructed - with 6 rows of stitching. I can live with the simple twill cotton drawstring, I much prefer good quality rope ties on trousers.
The Insignia has a slight glossy sheen to it that did not fade after repeated washing. The online blurb describes it as being made from 'crystal weave' which I must admit, does sound a little like sales patter. As far as I know, 'crystal weave' is the same as the process for 'pearl weave' fabrics in which cotton is mercerised and (possibly additionally) sanforised in order to create a strong yet light and reasonably shrink resistant fabric.
Comfort, Fit and Rolling Performance
When suggesting gi sizes, Doug from Kinjisan recommended the size A1 for the goldweave model and A2 for the Insignia. I trusted that the A2 would shrunk quite a lot as most A2's are too big for me, and I also hoped the A1 would NOT shrink as many A1 gis end up being too small for me after several washes.
After three washes, I'm happy to report that both gis still fit me pretty well. They both shrunk quite a bit but it seems to me that their pre-shrunk sizes took this into account.
The A2 Insignia was always going to be too wide in girth for my skinny body type but the sleeves are perfect in length (sleeve length is a constant problem for me with my long arms). The trousers are made from twill cotton, which I actually really like over other fabric types (ripstop and canvas being two other popular choices) and are a good length on me but being A2, they are very baggy in width more than I would like but certainly still functional. I was very impressed with the lightness and comfort of this model - comparable to any of the leading premium lightweight gi brands I have tried in the past. The Insignia also goes to show that it is possible to use branded seam tape on the inside cuff that is NOT itchy and scratchy, unlike several gis I have reviewed in the past.
The jacket of the A1 Gold Class in my opinion is an absolutely wonderful gi. After three washes it shrunk just enough to fit me like a tailored suit (cut by laser I am told). Added to this is the impressively tapered cut of the arms and torso. It is snug but not tight. The gold weave fabric is soft and superbly comfy but it's definitely no chump in the strength department - the whole gi feels weighty, without feeling heavy. I know that sounds daft in writing, but it's true! It is a very substantial piece of uniform. I feel the trousers are a tad short for my liking and I'll probably swap these for a spare pair from one of my other gis. However I really feel this is one uniform that I will add to my rotation of regular training gis.
Conclusion
I was very impressed with these two gi models. They are both very good quality uniforms being sold at a very reasonable price. The Gold Class model in particular is an outstanding gi and one that I think I will wear for a long time. It reminds me a lot of my very old Atama goldweave Mundial edition, which I long ago retired, but I loved that gi to bits. It is a shame that this model will no longer be made, once the stock has sold (currently only A1, A3 and A5 exist) then they will no longer be available to buy.
The Insignia is very good, it is strong, very light and very comfortable. It is very close to my old Vulkan gi in terms of fit and feel. Watch out for some stitching quality issues but apart from that, it's a very decent effort from Ronin. Crucially, this model will continue to exist for the time being.
What both these gis illustrate is that if one is adventurous enough to look beyond blinging eye-candy and fashionable name brands, there can be some real treasures to unearth with lesser known, but equally good, gi brands such as Ronin. I definitely recommend both gis - the gold weave for those who like a sturdy and substantial weighing (but comfy) uniform and the Insignia for those who need a very light summer, travel or competition gi.
Further Information
Both the Insignia and the Gold Class gis are available through the US Kinjsan online store. For UK and European customers, I don't think you can buy these gis locally, however I do see that the 'Fighter' model (which is similar to the Insignia except it has ripstop trousers) is sold through Grapplers Delight store for a price of �64.99. For further information on Ronin Brand, check out their Facebook page.
For other reviews of Ronin Brand gis, check these here:
White Belt Academy Insignia Review
Gi Reviews - Insignia review
Grappling Addict - Insignia Review
An older Sherdog review of the Insignia
:
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Meerkatsu/~3/ZQlNdV61-A4/gi-review-ronin-brand-gold-class-and.html
BJJ DVD Project ? Mundials 2004, Best Sweeps
Unlike takedowns and guard passes, sweeps are harder to categorize. Fighters have highly developed guards that often blur the lines between textbook positions and straightforward sweeps. What starts as a hook sweep from butterfly guard may end as a backroll from half guard. A fighter may move from half guard to DLR to sitting up guard to butterfly guard to a hook sweep then standing into a single leg (and all that in about 3 seconds.)
This “blending” becomes a defining aspects…
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/aesopian/~3/we65DIow-WI/
Sunday, February 26, 2012
BJJ DVD Project ? Pan Ams 2003
Each week of 2012, I’m watching a disc from my giant stack of BJJ tournament DVDs. This pile contains Mundials 1999-2005, Pan Ams 2001-2005, CBJJO Worlds, Marc Laimon’s banned Mundials and ADCC Remixes, dozens of Brazilian state championships, as well as special events like Rickson’s invitational and the So Cal Pro Am. I also have binder full of Grapplers Quests and ADCCs. (I will get more recent tournaments too.)
My goal is to work through years of Pan Ams, Mundials, ADCCs, and…
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/aesopian/~3/PLLgXHNPYik/
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Friday, February 24, 2012
Twitter Weekly Updates for 2010-01-22
this is interesting: The First MMA video game: http://mma-fighter-videos.com/2010/01/the-first-mma-video-game-video/ # Bookmark and share this post: More »Post from: my BJJ blogTwitter Weekly Updates for 2010-01-22 Related posts:Twitter Weekly Updates for 2010-05-21 Twitter Weekly Updates for 2010-04-23 Twitter Weekly Updates for 2010-04-30
Post from: my BJJ blog
Twitter Weekly Updates for 2010-01-22
Source: http://mybjjblog.com/2010/01/twitter-weekly-updates-for-2010-01-22-2/
Pan Ams 2007, Submissions Highlight
BudoVideos.com put up a 26 minute highlight reel of submissions from the 2007 Pan Ams. Here’s my tally of techniques.
TOEHOLD Toehold countered with an even better toehold.
TRIANGLE Reverse triangle from rear mount.
ARMBAR Knee on belly with gift wrap, try to mount but fall down to guard and get armbar.
ARMBAR Closed guard sweep to belly down armbar when they try to push back.
KIMURA to ARMBAR to REAR COLLAR CHOKE Kimura grip from side control, switch to armbar,…
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/aesopian/~3/0av6-UBzsNk/
Gi Review: Ronin Brand Gold Class and Insignia gis
Summary
Two very different gi types from same brand. Both models share the same high levels of quality and value for money but I found one of them in particular to be ultra comfortable, with a near perfect fit.
Disclosure: The contents of this report are my own opinions. I have in the past worked with a number of fightwear brands, including Ronin Brand, on various projects which are unconnected with this product.
Introduction
I must admit, before the owner of the fightwear store Kinjisan contacted me, I had never heard of Ronin Brand before. Kinjisan is a proper physical store located in New York and Ronin Brand is their own martial arts uniform brand covering a variety of styles, including judo, karate and BJJ. It sounds like one of those gi companies you sort of heard of somewhere, but never saw anyone wearing. This has changed a lot in the past few months as Ronin Brand has been vigorously marketed on the internet and there have been a number of recent blogger reviews for their two leading BJJ gi models, the Insignia and the Fighter (links at the end of this report). This review will look at their lesser known Gold Class gi, a goldweave model, versus the more popular Insignia, a pearl weave model.
Size, Weight and Other Stats
Gold Class A1 in centimetres (second figure is after three 30 degree washes)
A: 168/163
B: 77/74
C: 60/59
D: 16/15.5
E: 54/53
F: 95/88.5
G: 23/22
Jacket = 1.5Kg
Trousers = 0.6Kg
Price = $114.95
Insignia A2 in centimetres (second figure is after three 40 degree washes)
A: 163/161
B: 79/77
C: 60/58.5
D: 17/7
E: 57/55
F: 96/90.5
G: 25/24
Jacket = 1.1Kg
Trousers = 0.6KG
Price = $129.95
Looking at the figures above, the most interesting aspect to note is the weight difference. The Insignia, despite being a bigger size (A2) weighs only 1.7Kg in total whereas the Gold Class (A1) weighs 2.1Kg. The Gold Class shrunk by a slightly larger margin than the Insignia overall. In both models, the trousers shrank by quite a large margin.
|
| Gold Class (top) and Insignia (bottom), note the more tapered cut of the white gi |
Details
Both gi models are very plain, with just an embroidered patch on the sleeve but the Insignia is notable for the inclusion of branded tape running along most of the inside seams and on the outside of the trouser leg. With previous gis, I have found that the logo tape can be horribly scratchy and uncomfortable on my skin. But the Insignia tape was as smooth as silk. I definitely did not feel any discomfort - although this reviewer experienced otherwise.
The collars of both gis are covered with basic twill cotton fabric. The Insignia had the much thicker collar but I noticed some of the stitching to be a bit sloppy and coming apart. The Gold Class had zero stitching problems. I liked that non-branded seam tape on the inside cuffs, very comfortable and strong.
Both gis are well reinforced throughout. The Insignia trouser cuffs in particular were well constructed - with 6 rows of stitching. I can live with the simple twill cotton drawstring, I much prefer good quality rope ties on trousers.
The Insignia has a slight glossy sheen to it that did not fade after repeated washing. The online blurb describes it as being made from 'crystal weave' which I must admit, does sound a little like sales patter. As far as I know, 'crystal weave' is the same as the process for 'pearl weave' fabrics in which cotton is mercerised and (possibly additionally) sanforised in order to create a strong yet light and reasonably shrink resistant fabric.
Comfort, Fit and Rolling Performance
When suggesting gi sizes, Doug from Kinjisan recommended the size A1 for the goldweave model and A2 for the Insignia. I trusted that the A2 would shrunk quite a lot as most A2's are too big for me, and I also hoped the A1 would NOT shrink as many A1 gis end up being too small for me after several washes.
After three washes, I'm happy to report that both gis still fit me pretty well. They both shrunk quite a bit but it seems to me that their pre-shrunk sizes took this into account.
The A2 Insignia was always going to be too wide in girth for my skinny body type but the sleeves are perfect in length (sleeve length is a constant problem for me with my long arms). The trousers are made from twill cotton, which I actually really like over other fabric types (ripstop and canvas being two other popular choices) and are a good length on me but being A2, they are very baggy in width more than I would like but certainly still functional. I was very impressed with the lightness and comfort of this model - comparable to any of the leading premium lightweight gi brands I have tried in the past. The Insignia also goes to show that it is possible to use branded seam tape on the inside cuff that is NOT itchy and scratchy, unlike several gis I have reviewed in the past.
The jacket of the A1 Gold Class in my opinion is an absolutely wonderful gi. After three washes it shrunk just enough to fit me like a tailored suit (cut by laser I am told). Added to this is the impressively tapered cut of the arms and torso. It is snug but not tight. The gold weave fabric is soft and superbly comfy but it's definitely no chump in the strength department - the whole gi feels weighty, without feeling heavy. I know that sounds daft in writing, but it's true! It is a very substantial piece of uniform. I feel the trousers are a tad short for my liking and I'll probably swap these for a spare pair from one of my other gis. However I really feel this is one uniform that I will add to my rotation of regular training gis.
Conclusion
I was very impressed with these two gi models. They are both very good quality uniforms being sold at a very reasonable price. The Gold Class model in particular is an outstanding gi and one that I think I will wear for a long time. It reminds me a lot of my very old Atama goldweave Mundial edition, which I long ago retired, but I loved that gi to bits. It is a shame that this model will no longer be made, once the stock has sold (currently only A1, A3 and A5 exist) then they will no longer be available to buy.
The Insignia is very good, it is strong, very light and very comfortable. It is very close to my old Vulkan gi in terms of fit and feel. Watch out for some stitching quality issues but apart from that, it's a very decent effort from Ronin. Crucially, this model will continue to exist for the time being.
What both these gis illustrate is that if one is adventurous enough to look beyond blinging eye-candy and fashionable name brands, there can be some real treasures to unearth with lesser known, but equally good, gi brands such as Ronin. I definitely recommend both gis - the gold weave for those who like a sturdy and substantial weighing (but comfy) uniform and the Insignia for those who need a very light summer, travel or competition gi.
Further Information
Both the Insignia and the Gold Class gis are available through the US Kinjsan online store. For UK and European customers, I don't think you can buy these gis locally, however I do see that the 'Fighter' model (which is similar to the Insignia except it has ripstop trousers) is sold through Grapplers Delight store for a price of �64.99. For further information on Ronin Brand, check out their Facebook page.
For other reviews of Ronin Brand gis, check these here:
White Belt Academy Insignia Review
Gi Reviews - Insignia review
Grappling Addict - Insignia Review
An older Sherdog review of the Insignia
:
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Meerkatsu/~3/ZQlNdV61-A4/gi-review-ronin-brand-gold-class-and.html
Happy New Year!
Goodness, 2012 already! Where has the time flown? As eagle eyed followers will notice, I've changed the header picture to this blog - as I do every year. Went for a Hell's Angels tattoo kinda vibe, hope you like it cos it's gonna be there for the next twelve months! The pic here is the original which I designed for use as a desktop wallpaper 4:3 ratio - feel free to download and share. Anyway, I thought I'd take this opportunity to reflect on a fantastic year...
Magazines
I'll be honest here, this past year has been an incredibly busy but hugely productive. For me, the year really kicked off when Issue one of Jiu Jitsu Style Magazine was launched. The time somehow felt right to launch a BJJ-specific glossy magazine but it was still a brave move by mag owner Callum as a BJJ only title has never before been published from the UK. I'm happy to report, after one complete magazine year (6 issues) the title has progressed from strength to strength. Each issue delivers top quality professional content and I'm very fortunate to be able to submit interviews and photographs for each issue. It also means I get to meet some of the biggest names in the sport! (More on that later).
The USA was not to miss out either, with its launch of Jiu Jitsu Magazine this year. Again, I have been very fortunate in being invited to submit articles to the publication each issue.
 |
| De la Riva |
Photographing the stars
Speaking of meeting and photographing BJJ stars - this year I was extremely lucky to meet and train with two all time BJJ heroes of mine: Ricardo de la Riva Goded and Leonardo Vieira. I cannot say enough how humble and cool these two stars of our sport were to all of us who attended their seminars. In my guise as a photographer for Jiu Jitsu Style, I also got to meet and snap many other big name BJJ champs, including Robson Moura, Victor Estima, Leo Santos and Rafael Lovato Jr. All of whom were brilliant instructors and lovely people to meet.
 |
| Chico Mendes, Leo Vieira, Ricardo Vieira |
 |
| Robson Moura |
 |
| Lovato Jr (note: stand on box next time) |
 |
| Photo by Stephen King / King Studios Photography |
Events
I didn't compete much this past year. I decided early on that I would concentrate on my media and art. In order to do that effectively I had to scale back my training, consequently putting myself out of contention for proper tournament preparation. I did however attend a lot of events and tournaments, notably, reporting and following the success of my team mate, friend and instructor, Daniel 'Raspberry Ape' Strauss over two Submission 1000 grappling contests. Daniel spectacularly won the first Submission 1000 event, and was runner up in the second Submission 1000 event. In both cases, he defeated higher ranked opponents along the way and proved himself to be one of the best British grapplers on the scene right now.
 |
| Daniel jumping with menace |
As soon as I heard that the ADCC was being held in the UK I knew I would not miss the biggest event of the year. I could not have asked for more. An all areas press pass, two days of amazing fight action featuring THE very best grapplers in the world right now, hanging out with all my BJJ friends and feeling an intense swell of pride as I saw huge numbers of people in the audience all wearing one of the t-shirts that I had designed. I think I can honestly say those were the best two days of my grappling life.
Reviews
The past year saw me continuing to review BJJ gis and other fightgear. Again, I have to repeat how lucky I am to be in a position where I am sent stuff (most often for free) in exchange for an objective review. It's been getting harder to draw the line however, with the increasing amount of freelance design and illustration work I have been doing for (often the same) fightwear companies but reviewing gear is something I still want to keep doing. I hope readers here trust me enough to write an objective and as impartial a report as I can concerning BJJ apparel and I will always disclose my own involvement with the company for complete transparency with each report.
 |
| Mini Meerkatsu reviews the Datsusara Bag |
Since we are on the subject of gis - the most common question I get asked is what is my favourite gi? Well, of all the gis I reviewed in 2011, I have to say I really loved the visual eye-candy of the Gameness Elite, the K2 Premier Elite, Scrambe's 1chiban gi and the Bull Terrier Limited Edition.
But if you ask me what gis I am wearing right now in my gi rotation: it is my tried, tested, thoroughly used and abused Tatami Estilo 2.0 navy gi and my Black Eagle Raptor gi.
For non-gi reviews, I also looked at ear guards, bags and rashguards.
Holiday
Even the Meerkatsu goes on holiday once in a while. Despite suffering the vagaries of the British summer weather in Bournemouth, my couple weeks on the coast was helped by a dose of jiu jitsu training with my friends over at the Gary Baker Academy and the Phoenix MMA Academy.
Japan
Of course, no review of the year can go without mentioning the devastating earthquake and subsequent tsunami that hit the Tohoku region of Japan on the 11th March. It was the biggest earthquake to have hit Japan in recorded history. The Wikipedia entry states over 15,800 deaths and upwards of $34 billion dollars of economic damage caused by the earthquake alone. The wider economic and social impact was immense. The natural disaster mobilised people from all over the world to lend their support. The fightwear industry was no exception and companies big and small all offered their help, many produced special edition t-shirts, donating all proceeds to Japan. Few nations have influenced the fight and grappling community as much as Japan, I think it goes without saying that we all wish for a speedy continued recovery from this natural disaster.
 |
| Scramble 'Endure' t-shirt modelled by Roger Gracie |
Illustration and Design
I have drawn crazy animals and funny cartoony things ever since I can remember. This year was a turning point for me. I decided I would pursue my lifelong dream of becoming an established and well known illustrator. Whilst I have designed various logos and the odd bits and pieces for the fight community, I was never really pro-active about it. The opening of my Meerkatsu Facebook Page (see social media below) helped kick-start this exciting phase of my career. In 2011 alone, I have designed countless logos, mascots, characters and cartoons for people around the world, including Korea, Japan, China, Australia, Guam, Hawaii, Canada, all over Europe and of course the UK.
It's wonderful to see my work come alive on an item of clothing. The highlights for me, from an art and design perspective, have to have been the Raptor BJJ gi I created and the Honey Badger rashguard. I both those cases, I took a blank template and really stamped my own idea of what a fancy piece of fightwear should look like. I'm thankful to all my collaborators and to the fightwear companies who trusted me enough to hire my services.
Social Media
I would like the end this post with a massive thank you to all the readers, supporters, followers etc of Meerkatsu. I started the blog in 2004 without much of a clue what to say and I'm still really just making it all up as I go along. In 2011, over 82,000 of you visited the website and most of you hung around to read more than just my gi reviews. Overall, meerkatsu.com racked up a touch under 382,000 page views and you came from all over the world - including UK and USA obviously, but smaller nations, such as Zimbabwe, Yemen, Laos, El Salvador and hundreds of other places far more exotic than my rainy old London town!
Over on Facebook, I started up my Meerkatsu page in March and in the short space of time, there are now over 2,270 of you following my online antics. I've even begun tweeting the odd comment every few days. I try to post unique content onto each social hub if I can. So for formal reviews and in depth reports, this blog is the place to go, for daily news, thoughts and updates on stuff I've been working on, the Facebook page is the place to go, and for random off the cuff comments and BJJ related thoughts, follow me on Twitter @Meerkatsu.
2012
The following year ahead promises to be just as busy if not busier than the previous. I already have a stackload of cool original and fresh art designs just aching to be unleashed onto the public, plus I am expecting a ton more amazing opportunities to meet, interview and photograph the stars of BJJ. There will be the usual truckload of reviews and I promise to train and compete a bit more too. At the end of the day, everything I do is all about the fun, joy and love for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
To everyone out there, have an AWESOME and HAPPY two thousand and twelve, Osssssss!
:)
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