tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75836198473379016602024-03-14T05:12:31.267-04:00BJJ Family MattersBJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.comBlogger122125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-28808600065432493152012-07-29T09:39:00.000-04:002012-07-29T09:39:03.316-04:00Jiu Jitsu Moms, I need your help!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi27_Pf-r6lwD0UvS5LLZzIZv5KGa5Xqp35e9KjoOM8iLY4o_D2w6ZBaCmc7XTzPmJU8jlnBAngBEZrJwQRlu-1N9hyphenhyphenZz40JHogy7vswRkYYpS1KfeuL2kY76kP1R2AU66eua3fJjBPiqMb/s1600/jjmoms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi27_Pf-r6lwD0UvS5LLZzIZv5KGa5Xqp35e9KjoOM8iLY4o_D2w6ZBaCmc7XTzPmJU8jlnBAngBEZrJwQRlu-1N9hyphenhyphenZz40JHogy7vswRkYYpS1KfeuL2kY76kP1R2AU66eua3fJjBPiqMb/s320/jjmoms.jpg" width="275" /></a></div>
I would love to create a video honoring BJJ Moms and their reasons for
training. I will share it on our blog with the goal of inspiring other
moms. For more information and to participate visit our new and improved site at <a href="http://www.jiujitsufamily.com/2012/07/29/jiu-jitsu-moms-i-need-your-help/">http://www.jiujitsufamily.com</a>BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-2884528017590696432012-07-06T18:52:00.002-04:002012-07-06T18:52:58.336-04:00Lessons Learned From a Broken Arm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitAS4QbFs4_tZG1NskTq-7FgcSqcvkFHbq7pPn11JtfcN7KWXTKsjDu1mzoIPJvBIKRCmn7WnF6ayfMy94IejBOSTUN9NVCkFlIzs5fOyWTss_XzWyNPTdKdcjdPzjxy7OlrHkN4S1JOQT/s1600/cast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitAS4QbFs4_tZG1NskTq-7FgcSqcvkFHbq7pPn11JtfcN7KWXTKsjDu1mzoIPJvBIKRCmn7WnF6ayfMy94IejBOSTUN9NVCkFlIzs5fOyWTss_XzWyNPTdKdcjdPzjxy7OlrHkN4S1JOQT/s320/cast.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Visit our new and improved site at <a href="http://www.jiujitsufamily.com/2012/07/06/lessons-learned-from-a-broken-arm/">jiujitsufamily.com</a> to view this post.<br />
<br />
Thanks!<br />
<br />BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-46570745664140826112012-06-23T11:06:00.001-04:002012-06-23T11:06:38.019-04:00Compete in a CrossFit competion? Here’s what you need to know.<h1 class="post-title single">
<a href="http://www.jiujitsufamily.com/2012/06/23/compete-in-a-crossfit-competion-yes-you-should/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent Link to Compete in a CrossFit competion? Yes, you should! Here’s what you need to know."></a></h1>
<div class="meta single">
<span class="meta-author"><a href="http://www.jiujitsufamily.com/author/admin/" rel="author" title="Posts by Jennifer Stewart">visit our new site at jiujitsufamily.com to read this new post</a></span></div>
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<span class="meta-author"> </span><span class="meta-comments"><a href="http://www.jiujitsufamily.com/2012/06/23/compete-in-a-crossfit-competion-yes-you-should/#comments" rel="bookmark" title="Comments for Compete in a CrossFit competion? Yes, you should! Here’s what you need to know."></a></span> </div>
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<img alt="" class="size-medium wp-image-508 aligncenter" height="224" src="http://www.jiujitsufamily.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/hand9-300x224.jpg" title="hand9" width="300" /><br />
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<dl class="wp-caption aligncenter" id="attachment_508" style="width: 310px;"><dd class="wp-caption-dd">Support from a teammate after
a brutal WOD at Partner Pandemonium. </dd></dl>
</div>BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-62801227617233800972012-06-15T06:56:00.001-04:002012-06-15T06:56:14.711-04:00Time for Beast Mode<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVfi93_ChDV5mnnH2qpJ9LzzKF_sBn_SQlqjUJnbbc2tqnn-L-u2taBKg8aVYrFZcTRs6eZvhaeLy73GZk2QUgwaBMUMlw2Zo31Y0-sn6GUmmavr1AkE23_71R3TclYIutb1t9wH43x_tN/s1600/babe.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVfi93_ChDV5mnnH2qpJ9LzzKF_sBn_SQlqjUJnbbc2tqnn-L-u2taBKg8aVYrFZcTRs6eZvhaeLy73GZk2QUgwaBMUMlw2Zo31Y0-sn6GUmmavr1AkE23_71R3TclYIutb1t9wH43x_tN/s400/babe.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
Time for Beast Mode - another crossfit competition....read about it at <a href="http://www.jiujitsufamily.com/2012/06/15/time-for-beast-mode/">Jiujitsufamily.com.</a>BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-11746539574431427272012-06-14T05:59:00.003-04:002012-06-14T06:00:26.213-04:00A Parent’s Guide to Keeping Kids Interested in Training BJJ<i>New post by Jen at our new site <a href="http://jiujitsufamily.com/">JiuJitsuFamily.com</a></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh12UVCEv6VdTV3kRn9_64deil70ZncvBK_0LOfGirXemC2JEOzXydSzcgd4woVLqvJqmxlS7Bd5a_6Q5UtsSX_e8X7AZjfXkOusiVd84uqkDp-y8zYUSyJjjaRNKE80Lyv9NIWvdjXEr0Q/s1600/nike+bag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh12UVCEv6VdTV3kRn9_64deil70ZncvBK_0LOfGirXemC2JEOzXydSzcgd4woVLqvJqmxlS7Bd5a_6Q5UtsSX_e8X7AZjfXkOusiVd84uqkDp-y8zYUSyJjjaRNKE80Lyv9NIWvdjXEr0Q/s1600/nike+bag.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="wp-caption-text">
This $20 bag helps Hunter
feel prepared for class and showed him that we value his training.</div>
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Read other ways we have helped to keep our kids training consistently for more than 3 years at our new and improved site <a href="http://www.jiujitsufamily.com/2012/06/14/a-parents-guide-to-keeping-kids-interested-in-training-bjj/" target="_blank">jiujitsufamily.com. </a></div>BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-81082456916485388762012-06-10T18:42:00.003-04:002012-06-10T18:42:14.194-04:00Hunter Broke His Arm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVfyYwrWu-pwGR1g-dnddjBRbo8p7RBs-NM9l1dSHNLeWp6csLrfKJRhOdSe5gRqcetNda0Yz-0ZpFSxPOGeOLl8eSfl3pTPIx7Lk9ZYefVxUadpRVMUtF-nNligURf5pTjzf_tpw9C-P1/s1600/IMG_2078-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVfyYwrWu-pwGR1g-dnddjBRbo8p7RBs-NM9l1dSHNLeWp6csLrfKJRhOdSe5gRqcetNda0Yz-0ZpFSxPOGeOLl8eSfl3pTPIx7Lk9ZYefVxUadpRVMUtF-nNligURf5pTjzf_tpw9C-P1/s1600/IMG_2078-001.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
New post about <a href="http://www.jiujitsufamily.com/2012/06/10/bjj-emergency-response/" target="_blank">Emergency Responses</a> on our new site at <a href="http://jiujitsufamily.com./">jiujitsufamily.com.</a> <br />
Please update your links to follow us at our new and improved site.BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-9743215834392003182012-05-27T08:41:00.001-04:002012-05-27T08:42:55.890-04:00Follow us at JiuJitsuFamily.com<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2086803398"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivtvosQ5jFdhJKIKgemVPRMw_hwQmiz9HRTEdaTe_zZYi9Cay-O4IO2nFedE6R4z9ryC3XuGmMHynnfuWiZRl6kdFJWuZHtbLNYexQrlEgDCXEAxnQGEmtuimj4zM8HuFx48dHvT23SMBa/s320/logoyoutube.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Family Matters has officially moved to <a href="http://jiujitsufamily.com/">JiuJitsuFamily.com</a>. Our goal is to be a resource for families who train, or are thinking about training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Please update your bookmarks and links and begin following us at the new site.<br />
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jiu-Jitsu-Family/111222572349488" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="71" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD89MdHacVSIorhAZbQpdo5NydcJ5Tr-vD0Lqd0twYa-W9v0dNpWSxHZ4Oi6HinlH3WXFuPrBvWK6GUT6a9IdmCAkl-9Yfq9h7nopEecg78hkFHfh4IL0jehc0IgIv1AMT6GsTV_CjXYkl/s200/like_us_on_facebook.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<br />BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-21910849771031710732012-05-13T09:37:00.000-04:002012-05-13T09:37:24.230-04:00We're moving to JiuJitsuFamily.com !<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIGRmLEzCtB0tKICUG-h_JIpePoLZw9HUoYIpvPPdnfSgNh6Y3gv52pIMGP3Wfe4Ca4RXkG7dFkZifErs3VWBlv-dUd9hZdibhcPe4Il96qQxMojzdDmuH07itHpx076aNI4kE4BjnMOYb/s1600/jiujitsufamily.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIGRmLEzCtB0tKICUG-h_JIpePoLZw9HUoYIpvPPdnfSgNh6Y3gv52pIMGP3Wfe4Ca4RXkG7dFkZifErs3VWBlv-dUd9hZdibhcPe4Il96qQxMojzdDmuH07itHpx076aNI4kE4BjnMOYb/s320/jiujitsufamily.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
For a variety reasons we are migrating over to a new site. Please visit and continue to follow us at <a href="http://www.jiujitsufamily.com/">www.jiujitsufamily.com</a>. <br />
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We plan to put more of a focus on supporting families who currently train or are thinking about training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Hope to see you there!<br />
<br />BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-77341762701475470972012-05-09T07:38:00.000-04:002012-05-09T07:38:03.122-04:00Digging Deep<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">by Jen </span></i><br />
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Whether I am battling wills with my opponent to finish the armbar, finding the strength to power through the WOD, preparing to make a dynamic presentation in the board room, or dealing with a personal crisis, I am digging from the same source. <br />
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The physical fitness is only a byproduct of the mental fitness that I gain from each day on the mat and in the CrossFit box.<br />
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A little faith along with the support of good coaches helps me to dig even deeper. With that, I can conquer anything!<br />
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<b>One of Logan's and my favorite "dig deep" songs.</b><br />
<object height="360" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/XleOkGsYgO8?version=3&hl=en_US">
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<embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/XleOkGsYgO8?version=3&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="480" height="360" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object>BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-17684144233723626692012-05-08T21:25:00.000-04:002012-05-08T21:25:13.053-04:00Keep Moving<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs2TzRBTOeIQ5au0ZQSqsRWy22Sz7c15ysic9l5XnVrOTP4Mv798gS6K0Rjqw9Bf7GzMhGwfWQq_Z1NcTh-4BGMNpWXcGuS1-MT2KRb6pzFw_Yado_pCzlXwdAHC97rI9f3Zqy9tWIPfpH/s1600/kepmoving.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs2TzRBTOeIQ5au0ZQSqsRWy22Sz7c15ysic9l5XnVrOTP4Mv798gS6K0Rjqw9Bf7GzMhGwfWQq_Z1NcTh-4BGMNpWXcGuS1-MT2KRb6pzFw_Yado_pCzlXwdAHC97rI9f3Zqy9tWIPfpH/s400/kepmoving.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<i> a sonnet by Logan</i><br />
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<br />
The inspiration behind this sonnet, a homework assignment given to Logan, was the overwhelmed feeling from never ending homework. She later realized that it applies to so many other areas in life. (Yes, I am a proud mom!)<br />
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<b>Keep Moving</b><br />
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Sometimes just trying itself seems too hard.<br />
I'd like to give up, but that isn't me.<br />
If I were to quit, I'd never get far.<br />
Move on, I will, despite troubles I see.<br />
Whenever I fall, I'll fight to get up.<br />
Whenever I fail, I'll stand twice as strong.<br />
Success is a battle; not purely luck<br />
Mistakes are lessons as you move along.<br />
When I'm exhausted and tempted to stop<br />
And my mind has been working without a break<br />
When I feel overwhelmed and soon to drop<br />
I'm not so sure how much more I can take<br />
But though it seems there is nothing to gain<br />
I'll keep moving hard and working through pain. <br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b> </b>BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-28826711559825472812012-04-29T15:06:00.001-04:002012-04-29T15:25:45.634-04:00<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFMMXPdTibx0sFw3cVTQVEvA1zIIVlYWZ0xzrYvvV92f7tkBRgxxWJ5Zyyvlpd3hTcMxAKuYcopXu431BUOUU_sc052u16wbV_btphZS8RIS9ENzgMyYds56e29nwNZyeSTOxXJKsrxctn/s1600/openmatmay2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFMMXPdTibx0sFw3cVTQVEvA1zIIVlYWZ0xzrYvvV92f7tkBRgxxWJ5Zyyvlpd3hTcMxAKuYcopXu431BUOUU_sc052u16wbV_btphZS8RIS9ENzgMyYds56e29nwNZyeSTOxXJKsrxctn/s320/openmatmay2012.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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<b>Amazonian Women's Jiu Jitsu Growing Strong in South Florida! </b></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">by Jen</span></i></div>
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After learning of the women's open mats in London
and Girls in Gis in Texas, I hoped for the day
when we would have something similar in Florida.
Thank you Stephanie Dodge for making it happen<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=7583619847337901660"><span style="color: windowtext;">.</span></a> </div>
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Stephanie created the Amazonian Women's Jiu Jitsu community just a few short
months ago. It all began with a Michelle Nicolini seminar that she hosted
last November. After seeing the great interest from women jiu-jitsu
practitioners in the tri county area, Stephanie worked with other schools to
begin hosting monthly women's open mats. The third mat will be held
Saturday, May 12 at the Armory in Jupiter. (I cannot think of a better
way to spend my Mother's Day weekend!) </div>
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Still in the works are t-shirts and patches that will be
sold with proceeds benefiting girls in need of financial assistance for
competitions. </div>
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Stephanie wanted to create a forum where "women with any skill level, age
and from any gym can come to train with other females without fear of
intimidation. We all train together to make a better community for women's
bjj." </div>
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Admittedly, I approached my first open mat with slight hesitation.
Chances are good that I may have to fight some of these girls in a competition.
Do I really want to train with them and let them see how I roll? </div>
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I decided that these mats will be a great place to try new moves. I have no
regrets! Participating in this group has been beneficial to me on so many
levels. If you are a girl in the South Florida
area who is training or interested in training, I suggest that you seriously
consider trying one of these sessions. </div>
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My favorite five reasons for attending a female open mat: </div>
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1. It has helped me realize what I know. The mats are attended by
students of all ages and at all levels. I rolled with a couple of girls who
have only been training a couple of months. I enjoyed teaching them as we
rolled and encouraging them in their training. While helping them, I
gained confidence in what I know. </div>
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2. It has helped me open up my game. The mats usually begin with
warm up then instruction from local female black belt Sofia Amarante. By
working with Sofia and the other girls I am able to pick up new techniques. </div>
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3. The experience of rolling with girls is invaluable. I am one of
three girls at my school. I truly believe that girls roll differently than
guys. Guys are stronger and girls are wiggly. Rolling with
different girls helps me to work with the squirmers. </div>
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4. We are growing a local female jiu jitsu community. While we are all
just a handful of girls in our schools, we are a sisterhood in our community.
When traveling to tournaments we can cheer for one another as a
community.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;">5. The mats offer a chance to try new moves or moves that I struggle with. In class I am often rolling with the same individuals. They know my style and they know when I am trying to set up a certain move. Rolling with a new group on occasion helps me to work on these techniques. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-55301149748364174082012-04-06T07:59:00.001-04:002012-04-06T12:46:06.607-04:00Respect the Bar. Respect the Submission.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>by Jen</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> </i></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdL8Gb9GzkfmEM4QU8VVUgLLKlRGeYJYPxaxJtExXoGp1uIi7HSbhCkYrbZSLwURzrndCMLPUS6JvsPTXdp-JYZDDG_mLuVehmZ5b-HPRNm6Z2EwNxF_nyGgSQDMaMs_AISjxM7vEsV-xy/s1600/annie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdL8Gb9GzkfmEM4QU8VVUgLLKlRGeYJYPxaxJtExXoGp1uIi7HSbhCkYrbZSLwURzrndCMLPUS6JvsPTXdp-JYZDDG_mLuVehmZ5b-HPRNm6Z2EwNxF_nyGgSQDMaMs_AISjxM7vEsV-xy/s320/annie.jpg" width="248" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h2 class="title" id="page-title">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Annie Thorisdottir, one of my heroes</span></span></h2>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Time and time again I hear people say that they don’t want to try
CrossFit or jiu jitsu because they are too old, too overweight or are afraid
that they will get hurt. While I
understand that neither sport may be right for everyone, none of these reasons
are good ones to stay away. A few years
and twenty-five pounds ago I probably would have said the same thing. But somehow I stumbled upon both and now I cannot imagine life without them.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Remember that no one, absolutely no one, is in their comfort
zone in the first few days, even months, of training. The ones that are powering
through the WODS and rolls have most likely been doing this, or something
similar, for years. They too were once
new and they understand how it feels.
Know that the better athletes continue to push themselves out
of their comfort zone. So while they may be
lifting heavier than you, or rolling better than you, they are focused on their
own challenges. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the early days of jiu jitsu I would sit against the wall with
my eyes down when it was time to roll.
“Don’t pick me, don’t pick me,” I’d think. I felt like I was back in school and the teacher was reviewing the assignment that I didn't read. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In CrossFit I’d get butterflies in my stomach before each
WOD because it was filled with skills and lifts that I was not comfortable
with. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To prevent injury my advice is 1) listen to your body 2)
train with quality coaches and 3) respect the bars in CrossFit and the
submission in jiu jitsu. Don’t let your
ego get the best of you. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve had only a few pretty minor injuries in my 3 years of
bjj and 2 years of CrossFit. Most of
which were due to stupid mistakes of letting my ego get the best of me and not
listening to a pain in my body. If you
know you can’t lift the bar safely, drop the weight down. Who are you trying to impress anyway? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Focus on your form. I
cannot stress this enough. Do this whether the bar seems light or
heavy. (Recently I strained my back
because I took the light weight of the bar for granted and got sloppy. My fault. Lesson
learned). It is better to finish slower
without injury then power through a WOD and be injured for weeks.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On the mat, if you are caught in a submission – just tap.
It’s only practice after all. Instead of
worrying about the tap, think about how you got into that situation and how to
avoid it the next time. If you can’t figure it out, ask your partner or ask
your coach.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy and safe training!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-75972163457035796812012-04-05T05:56:00.000-04:002012-04-05T08:00:35.453-04:00My Personal Pans recap<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>by Jen</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am still coming down from my high from the Pans. It was a blessing to enjoy such
an amazing trip. Proudly I am the first student under Marcelo Meleiro to
bring home Pan gold. I won the female
masters blue belt middle weight division, winning two matches by armbar submission.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am working hard to keep this win in perspective. In some ways I believe it can be the luck of
the draw - how you’re bracketed, how you feel that day, how many competitors in
your division and so much more. What matters the most (in my book anyway) is doing all that you can to prepare, leaving everything you have on the mat, and
proudly representing your team with good sportsmanship. Every single person that has the courage to step foot on the competition mat should be celebrated. So while I take a moment to step back and enjoy the success, I focus on future competitions.
My goals are set for these 6 months before the Miami
Open. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My Pan medal belongs to Marcelo, RFLX
Training Center
and all of the students. All that I did to
win it was follow what my coach told me to do.
From incessantly training guard, to how and
when I warmed up that day, to my game plan for the matches – I followed his
leadership. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My teammates never let up on me in training, even on those
nights when I cried from frustration.
Thank you guys! It is because of the hard training and the tips that
they shared with me that I showed up feeling confident and ready. Marcelo thanks for the right words on those
nights when the tears rolled. And John,
thank you for helping to make this trip possible. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lastly, I am humbled by the incredible support I received
from my coach, my team, the Crossfit ATP team, my community of friends and my
family. I was blown away by the love. I cannot forget my number one supporter,
Tom. He put up with my tears and my
anxiety induced bad moods. I love you
baby! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The trip itself was amazing.
I will never forget the energy at the competition, being around jiu jitsu
greats, seeing old friends (Congrats to Allie – gold in her division &
open!) and meeting new ones. Spending
time with John, Marcelo, out teammate Adam, and Tom was probably the best part
of the trip. RFLX is filled with the
best guys around – I’m sure of it.<br />
<br />
My advice to anyone who's on the fence about competing - Do It! You won't be sorry.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJeZQSZimDDrbTkrfLUEzeG_mcDppAn7T5EbYPk0mmWHCGyQ11REHP-z76RNV5BqmTCd-nNdCRlxb5H2-MczTINLMx5GRQrsZwSjeGKzdMoj7HjXssz1QOdZBe3PsprIaKIfJUtYQODafm/s320/NewportBeachgroup.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our trip to Newport Beach the day before we competed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJeZQSZimDDrbTkrfLUEzeG_mcDppAn7T5EbYPk0mmWHCGyQ11REHP-z76RNV5BqmTCd-nNdCRlxb5H2-MczTINLMx5GRQrsZwSjeGKzdMoj7HjXssz1QOdZBe3PsprIaKIfJUtYQODafm/s1600/NewportBeachgroup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTg8Spq3I-is6yC1Ud-8pRRqalzTLUHZ84MN3cq-xsFXcJCnfYz73I2iCVY73O3Bs9_q_1tP6aDaxudbdCuott7kQD0AzUhzPxvIdTmhXafS6xJr9Eh5EWVP_NGw31dMmGmx6E5h_BXxN5/s1600/IMG_1677.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTg8Spq3I-is6yC1Ud-8pRRqalzTLUHZ84MN3cq-xsFXcJCnfYz73I2iCVY73O3Bs9_q_1tP6aDaxudbdCuott7kQD0AzUhzPxvIdTmhXafS6xJr9Eh5EWVP_NGw31dMmGmx6E5h_BXxN5/s320/IMG_1677.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crystal Cove State Park - Breathtaking!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVazaQSYRmatdZKhbs7VUR21oBl6zJL-hihLmlpWqVqxctd3WcaKx054FxLHLpIbTndZDbDTP_hhooSS6ncilyG_bx_Yb2iTDJVGNxha0LFuLbRf1TqZT-kspo0v_Tm5wvHX-qeXcZXAsQ/s1600/podium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVazaQSYRmatdZKhbs7VUR21oBl6zJL-hihLmlpWqVqxctd3WcaKx054FxLHLpIbTndZDbDTP_hhooSS6ncilyG_bx_Yb2iTDJVGNxha0LFuLbRf1TqZT-kspo0v_Tm5wvHX-qeXcZXAsQ/s320/podium.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my happiest moments ever!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic9xv2-vlPAjp_P3ta5i9FXy9X9BgaaqGRjprEKkvhKW-xGCHWFMOFyi36TwZTfZWqZYiACod5uDyoc2k1ffBrfPkU3wqPLdWBv3DvAaogTEEVMO6yP_5z7jBelMW6QYFblSKgcVFMBP9S/s1600/IMG_1728.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic9xv2-vlPAjp_P3ta5i9FXy9X9BgaaqGRjprEKkvhKW-xGCHWFMOFyi36TwZTfZWqZYiACod5uDyoc2k1ffBrfPkU3wqPLdWBv3DvAaogTEEVMO6yP_5z7jBelMW6QYFblSKgcVFMBP9S/s320/IMG_1728.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">RFLX Team - Adam, Marcelo, me, Tom & John! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQFi4oOdRsR8aZzafqu1jtzEG9V9VVx_PbhDVNevG7r6StpWSBLPItmcuD-PETRblaU7VK-jp8kKTpepG8Y7PAxHAFqwfmMXr8zbOrpxEpgfbv8BUbEh7YqBsuPddmyiXAkHAZYTcWE9n0/s1600/IMG_1676.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQFi4oOdRsR8aZzafqu1jtzEG9V9VVx_PbhDVNevG7r6StpWSBLPItmcuD-PETRblaU7VK-jp8kKTpepG8Y7PAxHAFqwfmMXr8zbOrpxEpgfbv8BUbEh7YqBsuPddmyiXAkHAZYTcWE9n0/s320/IMG_1676.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marcelo and John -I couldn't ask for better coaches!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1vSrIzWq6hTejp4T5sF4sYrWHHYxYpbo6PH8Rib6Cell6mst4vgXTNsYiI6SiBhcGr5Zk4XgIyka8-dM4_b8uO__fmwkkKiTgGaYCy5Iul40Gzeuv8LgNhvjVt-VAEOa0j5280kKFsJb/s1600/Seal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1vSrIzWq6hTejp4T5sF4sYrWHHYxYpbo6PH8Rib6Cell6mst4vgXTNsYiI6SiBhcGr5Zk4XgIyka8-dM4_b8uO__fmwkkKiTgGaYCy5Iul40Gzeuv8LgNhvjVt-VAEOa0j5280kKFsJb/s320/Seal.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This little guy was begging for food by the Newport Beach pier</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK6WSKdB6KJcoL2dpBRVp3TWFw-Kzm5cLtzIT3hLcx26olkiOUqDiVCKzleEq0BAGZJrOPNarkIQYYo7bqfug3Y51-XzpPWk33CEmUj_nH0dHnnPwXUu5241vcoWkpyt8Z1z_SEWehTQIi/s1600/IMG_1670.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK6WSKdB6KJcoL2dpBRVp3TWFw-Kzm5cLtzIT3hLcx26olkiOUqDiVCKzleEq0BAGZJrOPNarkIQYYo7bqfug3Y51-XzpPWk33CEmUj_nH0dHnnPwXUu5241vcoWkpyt8Z1z_SEWehTQIi/s320/IMG_1670.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crystal Cove State Park</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDMK1hN1yAto8M17qXLer6nFlZYvrrodWCCaGur9dwMd1fpd8h0jJhITvQyMDr0jzRFUMSpWz2P096FWkcxyol1m-uid93p6aUJ7Zr7vPba1IKM8DbWkY_zI5jiLMngv6Avxon0ldv_Dbk/s1600/TomMatchstart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDMK1hN1yAto8M17qXLer6nFlZYvrrodWCCaGur9dwMd1fpd8h0jJhITvQyMDr0jzRFUMSpWz2P096FWkcxyol1m-uid93p6aUJ7Zr7vPba1IKM8DbWkY_zI5jiLMngv6Avxon0ldv_Dbk/s320/TomMatchstart.jpg" width="276" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tom's match - unfortunately he lost by points</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0XkHgN6GkYLGR1nkxESFDzR3pa1oCUklX86CrI6Rdvp_1zRBWvtWy1csfONgy30QmfVafs66eXWNvApQfH9pYZz65GOVlEUe7MotHtyNY2b5M2YmbVR1XLYhTh_Wk8gIXGlsj8g2YAj2f/s1600/armbar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0XkHgN6GkYLGR1nkxESFDzR3pa1oCUklX86CrI6Rdvp_1zRBWvtWy1csfONgy30QmfVafs66eXWNvApQfH9pYZz65GOVlEUe7MotHtyNY2b5M2YmbVR1XLYhTh_Wk8gIXGlsj8g2YAj2f/s320/armbar.jpg" width="292" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my two matches</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1_R-_SR611NDQkjbAeG81F8e6SfDABTjQG34RX-cTZIyQvg0KC0xnn8GcYhX_DHmvjEE-n1TBUsBE6CyD5feXFXpZp-wXHYplfVqyh0pll40dZL_VMecLtH1B32u_0nh3SyzBTGUR1nGd/s1600/227820_168411213216454_100001427297209_377647_3780008_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1_R-_SR611NDQkjbAeG81F8e6SfDABTjQG34RX-cTZIyQvg0KC0xnn8GcYhX_DHmvjEE-n1TBUsBE6CyD5feXFXpZp-wXHYplfVqyh0pll40dZL_VMecLtH1B32u_0nh3SyzBTGUR1nGd/s1600/227820_168411213216454_100001427297209_377647_3780008_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanks to<a href="http://www.eliasdiamond.com/" target="_blank"> Elias Diamond Cutting</a> for being a great supporter of our school!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-39108889506178669862012-03-25T07:11:00.002-04:002012-03-25T08:34:24.125-04:00The Subtleties<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">by Jen</span></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">Someone
recently commented to me that their child is getting bored with jiu jitsu
because they feel like they are learning the same moves over and over
again. After more thought I wish I would
have explained to her that there are many
nuances of the moves. Those subtleties make the difference between success and failure in
pulling the move off in a roll. Personally,
I pick up at least one new tip with each time we practice a move.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">Take for instance
the very first one I learned, the arm bar from guard. We spend most nights drilling it after our
warm up. It seems simple enough. But try it in a roll and it’s a much
different story. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">So much
depends on how you move your hips, hold your opponent’s arm, position your
legs, your timing, etc. The more instinctive this all
becomes, the easier it is to successfully achieve in a competition match when
the adrenaline is pumped and the anxiety is high. This is true of every move we
practice.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">Here’s my
two cents - be humble about what you think you know. Trust your teacher. He has already traveled the journey to
earning a black belt, and he knows best how to lead you on yours.</span></div>BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-64890945951349113932012-03-05T15:57:00.001-05:002012-03-07T06:39:42.387-05:00Primal Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiaRUNY0qs731f-AtXtVF1maMvrK9wxRwjCYinVSnN_T0dIQD_HrXrqZoPRpockYt_FV0_skyA-VuM4HqroT_WhdyyrHIcooFTJ9mBCHtROKS2x5x9L2SaTXvlzzAFthqxpH7NQXT36XW9/s1600/DSC_0014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiaRUNY0qs731f-AtXtVF1maMvrK9wxRwjCYinVSnN_T0dIQD_HrXrqZoPRpockYt_FV0_skyA-VuM4HqroT_WhdyyrHIcooFTJ9mBCHtROKS2x5x9L2SaTXvlzzAFthqxpH7NQXT36XW9/s320/DSC_0014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
S FL Women's Open Mat, March 3, 2012</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>by Jen</i></span></div>
<br />
<span class="mceitemhidden">Primal eating is still going well. People
keep telling me I look leaner, but the scale is only showing about a five-pound
difference. Tom, </span><span class="hiddensuggestion">on the other hand</span><span class="mceitemhidden">, is seeing a difference physically and on the scale.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="mceitemhidden">The new food processor has made all the
difference. Where has this thing been all of my life? It is a
definite MUST for anyone trying to go </span><span class="hiddenspellerror">Paleo</span><span class="mceitemhidden"> or Primal! </span><br />
<br />
<span class="mceitemhidden">The diet is proving </span><span class="hiddengrammarerror">to be</span><span class="mceitemhidden"> a little tricky
in planning for the Pan Ams. Currently I </span><span class="hiddengrammarerror">am
slated</span><span class="mceitemhidden"> to fight in the Blue Belt Adult Female
Middle Weight division. With the recent weight loss I keep fluctuating
between the low-end of middle and high-end of light divisions. And to
make it a little more complicated, I realized that </span><span class="hiddenspellerror">IBJJF</span><span class="mceitemhidden"> is offering a
female masters division. Currently there are no middle weight master
contenders, but there is one light weight. </span><br />
<br />
Do I stay comfortably in my current division and fight the younger
girls? Do I try to lose a few more and fight masters light weight?
Decisions, decisions. And if I stay in middle, how can I add a few pounds
without adding the sugar, breads and other carbs back to the diet. I
feel too good to go back!<br />
<br />
Lastly, one item of note......I had the pleasure of attending a South Florida female open mat on Saturday. What an
awesome day! We were 34 South Florida
girls and women from different schools uniting together for some serious
training and an afternoon of fun. If you are in South
Florida mark your calendar for the next event on April 7th.
(PS - had a great roll with <a href="http://bjiujitsu.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Megan</a>!) <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/hsinclairphotos/WomenSBJJPart2#" target="_blank">Photos from the Open Mat</a>BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-31040008656565039942012-02-26T12:49:00.000-05:002012-02-26T13:03:32.536-05:00I am Eating Primal ( and my open letter of apology to Tom)<i>Dear Tom, </i><br />
<br />
<i>I should have known. You’ve done it before.
Years ago you suggested we take up running. I threw a tantrum every time it was time to run the track at the Y. But one day, like Forrest Gump, I wanted to keep running, keep running, and keep running. I found it therapeutic and a great way to stay in shape. It was not long before I yearned for my next morning beach run and 5k. </i><br />
<br />
<i> A few years later you suggested we try jiu jitsu. I pouted. I threw a tantrum on the way to the gym. I almost cried and refused to get out of the car. I do not have to tell anyone how that story ends. </i><br />
<br />
<i>Most recently, you suggested we try eating Primal. What?! Give up my bread, my candy, cookies? What will we eat? Do you know how much money that will cost? Do you know how much work that will take?
But you stuck with your plan whether or not I followed. I think you knew that the competitor in me would not last in watching you eat healthier and shed weight without me. So yes, shortly after, I followed. And yes, I love it! </i><br />
<br />
<i>I guess you can say that I don't like change. But thank you for encouraging the changes and bringing out the best in me no matter how much I pout, kick and scream and throw a tantrum. You truly do complete me and help to make me a better person each day. </i><br />
<br />
<i> Love you with all my heart,
Jen </i><br />
<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><i></i></span></div>
<br />
I am in my 3rd week of going primal. Why Primal instead of Paleo? I will not restate the differences that I’ve learned from this <a href="http://www.marksdailyapple.com/whats-the-difference-between-primal-and-paleo/" target="_blank">blog post</a>. The main selling point for me was that I can keep my dairy.<br />
<br />
Tom went all out from the beginning. I started in phases. On Ash Wednesday I gave up the rest of my “forbiddens” (peanut butter and chocolate milk).<br />
<br />
Just a few notes from my experience thus far:<br />
• It really is not that much more expensive. We used to go through bread, chips and other snacks like crazy. We do not buy much of this stuff anymore (just for kids – after all, they are still kids).<br />
• I do not need to eat every two hours anymore. This shocked me. The meals and snacks keep me satisfied much longer.<br />
• The kids are eating the meals without much effort on our part. They like the variety of new meals and snacks.<br />
• My grocery cart is a lot lighter because it is no longer full of foods with bulky packaging.<br />
• It takes a lot of planning. The Primal Blue print cookbooks have been my saving grace. I create my grocery list based on the meals I have planned for each week. This also helps with the budget because I stick to the list.<br />
• Cutting and chopping takes extra time in the kitchen. It’s time to invest in a food processor. It is also time to get the kids involved in prepping.<br />
• It may be the placebo affect, but I feel good.<br />
• Tom has dropped more weight than I have, but again, I feel really good.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjZ0OD_CK34cuHmmV_tQSVpDwpp6kTCxRkQm1pN2H2AzRVpWNCBZdF6eZ6liFMhpcX7VncPQvUCNFHgANUfLxJ0QYjE3EYtdBfYHAGf3V2v98nConxyIM-uamIfgbcELpQ3999TEynP6oB/s1600/forblog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjZ0OD_CK34cuHmmV_tQSVpDwpp6kTCxRkQm1pN2H2AzRVpWNCBZdF6eZ6liFMhpcX7VncPQvUCNFHgANUfLxJ0QYjE3EYtdBfYHAGf3V2v98nConxyIM-uamIfgbcELpQ3999TEynP6oB/s320/forblog.jpg" width="289" /></a></div>BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-37164914308537158992012-02-21T10:21:00.001-05:002012-02-21T10:21:57.858-05:00How to make suspension straps for BJJ conditioning<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/eBNjXy4uAC8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-30704680313821024212012-02-16T05:35:00.000-05:002012-02-16T05:37:04.132-05:00Logan Gets a New Belt<i>by Jen</i><br />
<br />
We were so happy to see Logan get promoted to a green belt this week. Keeping up with her training while balancing a freshman year filled with honors classes, extracurricular activities and a social life, has not been easy, but she has been doing it with grace! Yes, I am one proud Mommy.<br />
<br />
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<br />BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-63066170413074385212012-02-12T06:22:00.000-05:002012-02-12T08:43:48.149-05:00The stages of competition, the way that I see it.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>by Jen</i></span><br />
<br />
I recently identified a cycle of emotions that I traditionally follow around each competition. Here are the stages of competition, at least the way that I see it.<br />
<br />
<b>Stage 1: Discovery</b> - Excitement as I set my sights on a new competition. I mentally debate whether or not I should register, although I know in my heart that I will unless I have a work, budgetary or other personal conflict. I imagine myself excelling! <br />
<br />
<b>Stage 2: Preparation</b> - Focused training towards tangible goals that will lead to my success. I drive my family crazy because the training consumes me and is all that I can talk about! I eat, sleep and breathe for my training. <br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Stage 3: 1 Week Out - Panic</b>. <br />
<br />
7 days out: What was I thinking? I still can't blank, blank and blank (Fill in the blanks with whatever skills I have been working towards.)<br />
<br />
6 to 2 days out - Smart training focused around skill, not intensity, allowing for rest. Eating very healthy.<br />
<br />
1 day out - Extreme panic, rest, good night sleep, mental preparation.<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Stage 4: Day of </b>-Wake up feeling like I either want to cry or throw up. I can't believe I signed up to do this again. Quiet morning meditation, motivational playlist on my Ipod, good breakfast. Let's do this.<br />
<br />
Arrive at the venue and feed off of the excitement of the other competitors. Rely on my IPOD to help get me into the zone.<br />
<br />
Know in my heart that I did everything I could to prepare. Do my absolute best to make my family, coaches and team proud.<br />
<br />
<b>Stage 5</b>: <b>Post Competition -</b> 24 hours post competition - relive everything that I did right, and even more, everything that I could have done better. Feeling so grateful for the team of people who supported me and helped me prepare.<br />
<br />
This leads to a feeling of let down that the big event is over (similar to the let down after a big holiday or vacation).<br />
<br />
Quietly work and train...until I discover the next big competition and start the cycle all over again..<br />
<br />
Do you experience anything similar? <br />
<br />BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-85898849439030028962012-02-02T22:14:00.001-05:002012-02-04T06:19:25.364-05:00I hit the wall......literally.<div style="color: #f3f3f3;">
</div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">by Jen </span></i><br />
<br />
The 8 foot wall at the Heraean Games has already inspired several blog
posts and facebook statuses so I almost chose not to write this post, but it
turns out that the wall has special meaning to me. Too special not to
write about.<br />
<br />
Let me back up for a moment. If you keep up with my blog you know that
I had been training hard for the Heraean Games. The Games were an all female
CrossFit competition that took place the last weekend. The
required standards for the Athena (Masters) division were posted months ago
which helped me to focus my training. But in true CrossFit fashion, at
the last minute, they sprang the 8 foot wall climb on us. I can scale the
6 foot wall at ATP, but 8 feet? Hmm, I don't know.<br />
<br />
Juan and Stephanie, our ATP coaches, helped my teammates and I strategize
our technique the morning of the competition. Approach it like a box jump, get
a good grip on the top, pull yourself up, swing your arms then legs over and
you made it! I did it three times- piece of cake. I got this.<br />
<br />
The Wall was a part of WOD 1. It came after 50 double unders, a 40
calorie row, 30 box jumps, 20 deadlifts, 10 snatches and 10 push ups. I
accomplished that in just over 10 minutes. All I had to do was scale this
wall and pull the sled and I was done. I really got this!<br />
<br />
Jump one - Fail. Jump two - Fail. Jump Three Fail - and so on
and so on and so on. My heart started to sink. I noticed that some
of the others took a running jump approach - let me try this. Back
up, run and SLAM. Face, meet wall. When I began to taste the
blood I looked at Juan and asked if I was okay. He screamed "You're
okay, keep going, keep going!" So I did.<br />
<br />
I remember hearing people that I didn't know, along with my coaches and ATP
members, coaching me and cheering me on. I remember the words of one of
the event organizers playing over and over again in my head, "If you think
you cannot climb the wall, you won't climb the wall." I
was not going to say that I couldn’t climb the wall.<br />
<br />
Finally, after minutes that seemed like an eternity, I gripped the top,
pulled myself up and pulled myself over. The crowd of people, most of
whom I didn't know, roared. Wow! What a feeling!<br />
<br />
In my forty-one years I have hit many walls - personally, professionally,
financially and more. It is the same things that got me over the 8 foot
wall that got me over the others. I’m talking about the support and
encouragement from special people, the words of wisdom from coaches, heroes,
mentors, and bosses, mixed with a little tenacity.<br />
<br />
I went to BJJ tonight still unsure as to whether or not I was going to write
this post. My decision became clear when I figuratively hit the wall while
on the mat. I was getting tapped out and swept like crazy. Remembering the wall helped me to jump a
little higher. Unfortunately I don’t
think it was quite high enough tonight. But that's okay. I have the wisdom and support
of Marcelo and my BJJ family, along with a little tenacity, to climb the many
walls that I will inevitably meet head on in my journey.<br />
<br />
As a side note, you never know who you may inspire in your struggle to climb a wall. A couple of girls came up to me later in the day to tell me that they almost cried when I finally made it over. All the more reason to keep jumping.BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-16442376948820602902012-01-30T19:52:00.000-05:002012-01-30T20:01:34.294-05:00Heraean Games Video<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/35863979?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/35863979">The Heraean Games MMXII</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/jarret23">Jarret Streiner</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
Here's a video from the Heraean Games. I didn't place, but I accomplished what I set out to do. I will post a recap soon. It will include how I slammed my face into that 8' wall. You can find me around the 4th minute wearing a white tank top. <br />
<i>by Jen</i>BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-21994546319160737782012-01-27T07:52:00.000-05:002012-01-27T09:07:41.090-05:00It's Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">by Jen </span></i><br />
<br />
Tomorrow is the day that I have spent months training for - <a href="http://heraeangames.com/">The Heraean games</a> are here.<br /><p>
Unfortunately, I woke up on Wednesday feeling a cold coming on so I've been downing Airborne and Emergen-C, eating lots of chicken soup and getting plenty of rest.
<br /><p>
Pull ups never made their way into the WODs so I relaxed on practicing those. My double unders are better, but still inconsistent. Fortunately or unfortunately (I'm not sure which one) they are the first exercise that I will have to do tomorrow. I hope I do them swiftly, and if I don't, I hope they don't set the tone for the rest of my day.
<br /><p>
<b>Goals for the Heraean Games</b><br />
1. Leave it all on the floor. Bring my very best to each of the 3 WOD's. Give 'til there is nothing left!<br />
2. Remember that I'm there to challenge myself. I'm there to do my personal best. I prepared as hard as I could without sacrificing my work and family responsibilities. I know this in my heart. Now it's time to bring it.<br />
3. Wear blinders. Don't get discouraged if I see my competitors getting far ahead of me. But leave a little window open to help motivate me. This one is going to be a difficult balance.<br />
4. Make my coaches proud. My <a href="http://www.crossfitatp.com/">ATP</a> coaches have been amazing in helping me prepare. I want to reward them for their belief in me and their dedicated coaching. <br />
5. Represent ATP well through good sportsmanship. When all is said and done, that is what really counts.<br />
6. Cheer on my fellow teammates. Jessica, Lauren and April are outstanding athletes - can't wait to see them in action tomorrow!<br />
7. Be a good example to my kids. They have witnessed my battle with the double unders. I want to show them that persistence pays off. <br />
8. Be an inspiration to other woman my age. There are only 8 of us in the Master's division. While still a small group this is double from last year! I would love to be a part of growing this division even more!<br />
9 Move along when (if) I struggle with an exercise. Keep going and don't get discouraged.<br />
10. Relax and have fun! I often realize that my inability to relax is an obstacle when I roll and crossfit. Tomorrow I need to remember to relax, relax, relax! <br /><p>
When all is said and done, The Heraean Games are just another step in my Crossfit and BJJ journey. I have many more tournaments to fight in and competitions to participate in. Maybe, one day, there will even be an RX in my future.<br /><p>
Lastly, thank you Tom for "believing that I can fly."BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-31671617919555918472012-01-05T18:43:00.000-05:002012-01-05T18:44:44.936-05:00JiuJitsuMania World Champion Michelle Nicolini Training Seminar<object width="450" height="259"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/IdV97kUlCbI?version=3&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/IdV97kUlCbI?version=3&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="450" height="259" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object>
<p>
<a href="http://jiujitsumania.com/">JiuJitsu Mania.com</a> posted this video from the Michelle Nicolini seminar in Wellington Florida on November 13.BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-15970400315445959182011-12-31T09:14:00.001-05:002011-12-31T09:14:30.011-05:00Looking Forward to Great Things<i>by Jen</i><br />
<br />
2012 is near. Resolutions are written and filed in a place where I will see them regularly. Now for the fun stuff - here is a glimpse of what I am looking forward to in 2012.<br />
<br />
• I hope to compete in the Pan Ams. This is still not confirmed. I need to be sure I can finance the trip without screwing up my 2012 financial resolution.<br />
<br />
• Competing in other BJJ and CrossFit tournaments, including the Heraean games on January 28th. Who knows, maybe 2012 is the year I start working towards the masters division of the CrossFit Games. I have four years to make the 45+ division, leaving much time to work on those skills. If nothing else I will continue to grow as I train.<br />
<br />
• Watching the 2012 Olympics. This year will be the first that I will be interested in watching the Weightlifting division. And hopefully my inspiration, Dara Torres, will be swimming.<br />
<br />
• Attending female open mats and seminars. There was great energy at the Michelle Nicolini seminar last November and the girls were talking about hosting more consistent female open mats.<br />
<br />
• Watching <a href="http://rflxtrainingcenter.com/">RFLX Training Center</a> flourish. Last August <a href="http://www.novauniaosouthflorida.com/">Marcelo Meleiro BJJ</a> moved from our CrossFit facility to RFLX. Our new home continues to grow and expand. I cannot wait to see what 2012 has in store for our bjj family.<br />
<br />
• Getting my new gi. My Atama Mundial number nine should be arriving any day now! After three years I finally invested in a good one!<br />
<br />
• Fun experiences and celebrations with our family and friends. We are starting off with our very own 5k on the beach on New Years Day and a camping trip to follow within the next few weeks.<br />
<br />
• Another Mud Run or similar challenge. I hope we will bring some new friends this year.<br />
<br />
• Continuing to enjoy training with the family and watching my children grow, flourish and experience new things. <br />
<br />
• Working with Tom to build our home training facility. The mats are upstairs, the weights are on the porch, the pull up bar is in place and we have identified good places to hang a climbing rope and throw some wall balls. Landscaping has never been our forte so it seems perfectly natural to use the big yard as a gym.<br />
<br />
• Those unexpected little surprises that put a smile on my face. Like the Washington DC trip that Logan won for us last year. I have learned that you never know what tomorrow will bring. That is what makes life worth living.<br />
<br />
What are you looking forward to?BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7583619847337901660.post-22561406310404941182011-12-29T08:16:00.000-05:002011-12-29T08:29:03.465-05:00RELAX<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">By Jen</span></i><br />
<br />
Relax! This was the consistent theme in my training this week.
Relax my shoulders as I dead lift.
Relax while doing double unders. <span class="correction alternate" id="GingerWidget-correction-0"> (</span>I realized that I was jumping without breathing. No wonder why I kept screwing up.)
Relax while going for the take down. Logan got the points. I got the lesson.<br />
<br />
As I <span class="correction alternate" id="GingerWidget-correction-1">write</span> this, feeling sore (and feeling my age) after a week of some tough training<i> and</i> with a sprained toe from BJJ last night, I vow to relax and train no more until Saturday morning. With the exception, of course, for a little training in Just Dance 3.BJJFamilyMatters.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01099507523681749867noreply@blogger.com0