20.01.10 Strengthening the foundations (Diary Entry)

Jan 22nd, 2010 by Jamie Clubb

: Image via Wikipedia

Juniors

Before going through the three ranges I felt it was time to look at the physical base of training. After the warm-up we looked at basic posture for a comfortable state of awareness. We discussed and practiced the state of being in strange surroundings. The state of awareness practiced here would normally come under what Jeff Cooper would label code yellow. It was an opportunity for students to assess how they carry themselves. I gave them a direction and then altered the circumstances, changing it to the final stage of the pre-fight. The poster alters slightly again. This then changes to in-fight, which prompts a dramatic shift in stance and movement.

We practiced some basic techniques through shadow boxing, including some combination work, and then moved onto some proactive partner drills focusing on striking. Next we moved into some stand-up grappling and takedown sparring. Then we covered groundwork with some transitional pins, followed by ground freesparring.

Our first of several junior workshops is scheduled for Saturday 30 January, 10am to 12pm at the upstairs gym at St Nicholas Church of England School, Priory Road, Kenilworth, Warwickshire. See our workshop list for details.

Seniors

The senior class was completely focused on mixed martial arts. After the warm-up we went into some boxing drills. This began with proactive movement drills using the boxing gloves as targets. We followed this with a jab/parry drill. Clinch was next, working on neck wrestling, pummelling, head-to-head control and takedowns. On the ground we went through transitional pins and defences from underneath followed by guard work. The class finished with MMA sparring.

I try to provide enough information in my coaching for students to take home and research for themselves. The different partner drills we covered can be done with equipment like Swiss balls, resistance bands and even weights.