Jesus and Jiu-jitsu. Finding Faith and Empowerment.

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Where else can you find Jesus and jiu-jitsu in the same blog? Right here at The Great Flip, you will receive faith and empowerment! First, some Jesus, then jiu-jitsu!

  • Have you been hurt or confused by the church?
  • Do you still watch church online?
  • Are you trying to decide if the martial art called, Brazilian jiu-jitsu is right for your family?

You will LOVE this podcast! I discovered my guest, Donavon Riley at the intersection of Jesus and jiu-jitsu. Pastor Riley shares his journey from drugs to faith, lies to truth, lost to found, and faith to empowerment. He shares his 12-year-old daughter’s journey away from taekwondo and toward jiu-jitsu. This podcast is for anyone who seeks to strengthen their faith and increase their courage to walk onto the jiu-jitsu mats. Pastor Riley’s intellect and honesty will inspire you to do both. Pastor Riley can be found at the intersection of Jesus and jiu-jitsu and at a ministry called 1517. org.

Click on the play button below to listen to this Podcast. Please subscribe to The Great Flip Podcast on your favorite podcast such as Spotify, Google, Apple, Anchor, etc. for more.

Do you go to church to give or get gifts?

I recorded this podcast in 2019. That was Pre-pandemic. That seems like a long time ago, doesn’t it?  Many have not returned to church. There are many excuses people give for not returning but I venture to guess one primary reason is their lack of understanding of the true meaning of church according to God’s design.

Church is meant to be a place to receive God’s gifts.

If you go to church to give God your gifts then you are doing it wrong. There is nothing wrong with praising God and giving back to your church community, but that is a secondary response to the primary purpose of the church. Church is meant to be a place to receive God’s gifts.  Yes, I know you can experience God in nature, at home, and anywhere you roam, but the Bible specifically promises the gifts of forgiveness of sins and faith nutrition in the church. In my church, we refer to this as the means of grace. God delivers his grace to us through his word and his sacraments. These are unmerited, unconditional gifts given to you through the crucified and risen Jesus.  The church is where we can receive the gifts to declare and defend the Good News that we are forgiven and free on account of Christ alone (1517.org)

  • I hope the podcast gives you faith and empowerment to return to Jesus at church.
  • I hope it gives you the courage to try the martial art called Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

Welcome to The Great Flip! Coach Jody

I’m Coach Jody and I teach online self-defense, safety and faith-filled empowerment. My online instructional videos are designed for children ages 6 and up (yes, mom and dad too).

Here at The Great Flip, you and your children can learn simple self-defense techniques in the comfort of your own home. Simply subscribe to my online instructional videos. Request a free video and lesson plan.

Why Brazilian Jiu-jitsu is the best martial art for your children

If you are not familiar with Brazilian jiu-jitsu, that’s okay. It was a new concept to me too. But after a lot of research, my husband and I discovered jiu-jitsu and learned it was the best martial art for our daughters because it addresses the ground game situation like no other martial art. Don’t get me wrong, karate and taekwondo are fun, but are not real to life when it comes to self-defense. And Krav Maga looks good in theory, but you better be bigger and stronger and probably faster if you want to be successful at it.

Six reasons BJJ is best for a children’s first exposure to self-defense, because: 

  • BJJ allows students to live drill techniques with success. 
  • BJJ empowers smaller-framed people to use techniques and leveraging versus force to overcome a larger opponent. 
  • BJJ introduces children to physical contact in a safe environment. 
  • BJJ is a “grappling sport” introducing girls to movements on the ground which is realistic to real self-defense situations. Most self-defense altercations (more than 80 percent) end up on the ground. No other martial art addresses ground situations like Bjj. 
  • BJJ empowers, builds confidence, and increases mental and physical strength. 
  • BJJ is referred to as the “gentle martial art” giving girls a positive martial arts experience. 

Benefits of Brazilian Jiu-jitsubullying-fear-germs

  • Self Confidence
  • Bully Prevention
  • Positive Body Image
  • Teamwork
  • Trust & Respect
  • Strength & Flexibility
  • Fitness & Conditioning
  • Life Skill & Character Development

What is Brazilian jiu-jitsu?

Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling-based martial art where the main objective is to control a resisting opponent. Since gaining control over an opponent has been proven to be easier on the ground than in a standing position, much of the techniques of BJJ is centered around the skill of taking an opponent down to the ground and wrestling for dominant control positions. In its application in self-defense, I focus on control, defense and escapes for girls using BJJ principles. There is no striking or kicking in BJJ, but there is training to defend yourself from these attacks at an age-appropriate level. BJJ promotes the concept that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend against a bigger, stronger assailant by using leverage and proper technique. And students of the sport gain a deep understanding of the workings and limits of the human body.  The Great Flip online curriculum will introduce students to foundational Bjj movements and techniques. Students who participate in the curriculum (and continue to revisit the movements year after year) will gain a basic understanding of self-defense skills, prepare for the martial arts environment and improve overall health and wellness. My coaching style is fun, playful and empowering.

Request a free video

Enroll in The Great Flip online courses

The Gentle Art.

“Jiu-jitsu” translates from the Japanese as “the gentle art.” The idea here is that practitioners can execute moves realistically and at full speed without having to worry they will injure their partner. If caught in a submission, practitioners are taught to “tap” their partner to signify discomfort, and the submitter will release the submission. Jiu-jitsu does not believe in strength, it believes in technique. It uses leverage to overcome muscle and weight. 

What you will need to train BJJ from The Great Flip:

Whether you are training at home, at school or after school, you will need these items to get started. 

  1. Membership Plan with The Great Flip. Click here to find a plan that works for you.
  2. Internet connection to stream the videos from Vimeo.com.
  3. Comfortable exercise clothes
  4. A designated training space with mats (interlocking mats, gymnastics mats and/or yoga mats.) Here is my workout space at home: https://vimeo.com/289726478 
  5. A training partner. (I do have a few “no-contact” modifications to get started, but eventually, you’ll need a training partner.)

Teach Martial Arts in your Homeschool PE Class. Click here. 

 

Request a free video

Enroll in The Great Flip online courses

Great Time to join The Great FlipPunch Protection 101    

The Great Flip is a national program alliance for American Heritage Girls.

Here’s one of the devotions I wrote for True Girl, a ministry of Dannah Gresh. Share it with your children!

New Strength

Learning self-defense is fun. It strengthens the body. But God’s power strengthens the body, mind and spirit. “He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:29-31 My daughters are small-framed young ladies. Girls, in general, are smaller and less muscular than our male counterparts. If my daughters were to find themselves in a self-defense situation and their adversary is stronger, no amount of their strength will win the fight.  My husband and I chose a martial art called Brazilian jiu-jitsu. The training method in jiu-jitsu says a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend themselves against a bigger, stronger, heavier opponent by using leverage and weight distribution, taking the fight to the ground and using a number of holds and submissions to defeat them. Jiu-jitsu trains the body and mind to not grow weary, outsmart the opponent and overcome the situation.  When God spoke these words to Isaiah, his people were in exile. They had rebelled against God and overcome by a stronger advisory because of their sin. Yet, God in his mercy promised to rescue, redeem and revive them. Not because of their strength or ability, but because of his power, mercy and love toward them.  When you feel weak, powerless, tired and exhausted, God has good news for you. Romans 5:6 says, “When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners.”  Wow! His death and resurrection power gives you new strength to overcome your toughest battles. Remember your identity and your power comes from Jesus!

Activity Point: Pretend and fly around the room like a soaring eagle thanking God for new strength through Jesus! To learn more about your identity and power in Christ, read Colossians 2. To learn about Brazilian jiu-jitsu contact Coach Jody at her online program www.thegreatflip.com. Contact me and I’ll send you a free video! 

Bio: Jody Token is the creator and coach of The Great Flip, online self-defense, safety and faith-filled empowerment for girls age six and up at www.thegreatflip.com  

online self-defense for girls

A Homeschool Mom’s Review of The Great Flip

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I was blessed to share The Great Flip with Abby Banks, the host of Homeschooling with Moxie Podcast. If you are a homeschooler, you will LOVE Abby’s resources at 4OneMore.

Her criteria for any homeschool resource is that it must be easy to follow for homeschool families. The Great Flip met her standards.

Abby is a former classroom teacher, and now a homeschooling mom of five. She loves to equip and encourage homeschooling families. Her goals on her website and on her podcast Homeschool with Moxie Podcast are to inspire and encourage with actionable strategies to take you from overwhelmed to confident in your homeschool adventure. Her podcast is a great place to listen to interviews with amazing influencers in the homeschool world and beyond.

Abby’s goal was to make sure The Great Flip is easy to use by homeschool parents and worth your time and investment. Here’s what she said in her blog over at 4OneMore.

Jody’s program comes with easy-to-follow lesson plans that you can use at home with your immediate family. Or gather other families from your local homeschool group and use the video lessons together. Another great idea that Jody shared in today’s episode was for your older teen girls to work through the lessons on their own and then use Jody’s plans to teach the curriculum to the younger girls.

Of course, your boys can join in The Great Flip program too even though it was originally created specifically for girls.

In the podcast, you’ll learn about The Great Flip, online self-defense, safety and faith-filled empowerment;

  • how it works for a homeschool PE class,
  • how easy it is to teach (no martial arts experience is required),
  • how it gives your children usable self-defense skills and
  • how you can weave your Christian worldview in homeschool PE class!

Click here and listen to the podcast for more fun details!

HOW TO TEACH MARTIAL ARTS IN HOMESCHOOL PE

Learn more about The Great Flip and watch some of Jody’s videos to get a feel for how you could teach martial arts and self-defense in homeschool PE.

Self-defense not only is a great skill for your girls (and boys!) to learn but working a Christian worldview into the curriculum is what sets Jody’s program apart from others. If this is important to you in your homeschool, you’ll love The Great Flip.

Click here for more information about “Homeschool Martial Arts.”

Click here to request a free video and lesson plan.

Click here to review costs.

 

 

Abby wrote an excellent blog featuring practical tips for making your homeschool PE easy and structured whether you do it yourself or outsource it according to your child’s interests. This is a must-read!

homeschool with moxie

WHAT SHOULD BE TAUGHT IN A PE CLASS?

PE, or physical education, can be thought of in two broad categories. PE instruction can be health-based or skill-based. If you think of these aspects, it will be more clear as to what you can plan to teach in a homeschool PE class.

Of course, PE includes things like:

  • developing motor skills
  • learning sportsmanship
  • physical fitness
  • working up endurance
  • growing coordination, speed, and strength

Sometimes it is easiest to have your kids join a local sports team to “cover” homeschool PE easily. Other times, your child might enjoy a more independent sport, like ice skating or gymnastics. Many high school boys enjoy weight lifting to fulfill their homeschool PE requirements.

For many years, we joined the homeschool gym and swim class at our local YMCA to have that organized “gym class” time with other kids and then to enjoy a splash in the pool.

HOW TO TEACH HOMESCHOOL P.E.

Of course, when you think of the aspects of health and skills that homeschool PE targets, you can also just do homeschool PE in your backyard.

You can set up obstacle courses and have your kids work to improve their time. Go on family bike rides to increase motor skills and endurance. Organize a weekly kickball game with your homeschool co-op. All of these things are easy ways to teach homeschool PE.

Another simple way to teach homeschool PE is to find online fitness videos to use in your own home with your kids.

HOMESCHOOL PE IDEAS

Think of the team sports that your children might join as they grow older. Now work on individual skills related to those team sports.

For example, if your kids might like to join a basketball team, figure out the foundational skills they need to learn and use your homeschool PE time to practice things like dribbling, shooting lay-ups, passing the ball, and such.

HOMESCHOOL PE CURRICULUM

I know that sometimes it’s just easier to have a homeschool PE curriculum planned out for you. That’s why I’m excited to introduce you to today’s guest on episode 175 of the Homeschool with Moxie Podcast.

Jody Token is the creator and coach of an online curriculum for girls called The Great Flip, online self-defense, safety and faith. Homeschool and Christian school families subscribe to her online training videos and learn fun, playful and empowering self-defense skills.

The Great Flip is part of the National Program Alliance with American Heritage Girls.

Listen to my conversation with Jody on episode 175 of the HWM Podcast.

homeschool martial arts

Click here to get started with Homeschool Martial Arts from The Great Flip!

 

Contact Coach Jody

 

 

homeschool martial arts

You Can Teach Homeschool Martial Arts

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You can teach a homeschool martial arts class!

Make your homeschool physical education (P.E.) class fun and functional with homeschool martial arts from The Great Flip.

No martial arts experience is required. I will equip you with everything you need!

 

Here’s how it works (It’s easy to follow.)

#1. Subscribe to one of my online plans.

#2. Designate a training area at home. Click here to see my at-home training space.

#3. When it’s time for P.E. class:

  • Sign into your purchased homeschool martial arts account at The Great Flip.
  • Gather your students to watch and train one or two martial arts skills per training session. Remember, no martial arts experience is required. Simply watch, train and have fun!
  • I recommend at least once or twice a week for homeschool martial arts. But you can do it as much as you’d like. Repeat the program each semester and each year to retain knowledge and improve muscle memory (Just like any sport, you need to practice!

You will replicate an authentic martial arts experience, just like going to a big gym, but you are in charge of the message and a positive experience. Each session can include warm-up exercises, stretching and conditioning drills.

Simply watch the streaming video (less than three minutes) practice together and train.

Want to try one now? Click here to request a free martial arts skill video. 

Read this homeschool mom’s review of The Great Flip

 

Homeschool Martial Arts Resources

You Can Teach Homeschool Martial Arts

How to Teach Martial Arts in Homeschool PE Class

Four Tips for Empowering Homeschool Martial Arts

 

 

The Great Flip is an online self-defense, safety and faith-filled resource for the whole family, age six and up.

Hi, I’m Coach Jody and I’m the creator of The Great Flip. When my daughters and I tried a big box martial arts academy, we were overwhelmed by physical contact, rough teaching style, and uncomfortable spiritual influences. So I created an at-home martial arts experience.

Learning a martial art will increase your child’s confidence and inspire courage. And bonus … Online martial arts puts you in control of a safe experience. No martial arts experience is required. I will equip you with everything you need to teach homeschool martial arts to your children.

The lesson plans and videos will introduce students to fundamental movements and techniques inspired by the martial art called Brazilian jiu-jitsu. You will introduce elements of a martial arts experience to your students including bowing, teamwork, discipline and respect.

The primary objective of The Great Flip homeschool martial arts curriculum is the exploration of physical movement for self-defense inspired by the martial art called Brazilian jiu-jitsu. They will grow mentally, physically and emotionally with this curriculum.

Who is using the homeschool martial arts lesson plans?

The online self-defense curriculum is now available for 1st – 12th grades. The curriculum is being used by educators to meet physical education and extra-curricular goals in the public, private, parochial and home school environments:

  • Mom & Dad
  • Physical education (PE) teachers
  • Athletic directors
  • After-school program directors
  • Homeschool educators
  • Youth leaders
  • Directors of Christian education
  • Camp directors
  • Team-building directors
  • Self-defense instructors

online self defense for girls

The Great Flip Online Martial Arts Curriculum includes:

  • A total of 32 videos
  • Online curriculum PDF
  • Eight lesson plans PDF
  • Eight Talking Points PDF
  • Class Structure Video
  • Warm-up Exercises Video
  • Stretches Video
  • Animal-inspired Conditioning Drills Video
  • Jiu-jitsu-inspired Games Video
  • 20 Self-Defense Technique Videos
  • Seven Bonus Self-Defense Technique Videos
  • A total of 27 Self-Defense Technique Videos

The homeschool martial arts curriculum is complete with downloadable lesson plans, talking points, and online videos for every segment of your class experience including warm-up exercises, stretches, conditioning drills, jiu-jitsu-inspired games and of course, empowering self-defense techniques and movements.

There’s a plan for every budget. Click here to pick a plan.

What you need to provide:

  • Mats
  • Training space
  • Strong WiFi
  • No experience is required
  • A teachable spirit

 

 

Click here to see what you’ll need for your homeschool martial arts training space. 

Click here to request a free video and lesson plan

 

The Great Flip Approach

The Great Flip Curriculum is a non-combative approach to self-defense. The student will not be taught to strike, kick or use aggression or force. They will explore movements in a safe and positive environment. They will learn life skills such as falling safely to the ground. They will learn discipline, teamwork and trust. They will learn about distance management, situational awareness, punch protection, and techniques to de-escalate and escape situations. They will be challenged mentally and physically while learning foundational Bjj movements without fear.

Check out all my podcasts, especially the one called “Homeschool Martial Arts” at KFUO Radio. Click here.

 

 

Educational Outcomes

online self defense for girls

  • Introduction to, and basic understanding of the martial art Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ).
  • Introduction to, and basic understanding of a typical martial art class experience.
  • Introduction to self-defense techniques and physical movements inspired by Bjj.
  • Improved physical fitness by learning and executing movements and techniques.
  • Improved confidence and courage in executing self-defense techniques.
  • Increased control of physical, emotional and mental self.
  • Increased confidence in gaining positive body language skills.
  • Improved situational awareness learning how to assert, assess and take action.
  • Improved character development skills understanding self-defense as a holistic approach to life.

Click here to request a free video and lesson plan

 

Brazilian Jiu-jitsu is best for children’s first exposure to martial arts, because:

  • BJJ allows students to live drill techniques with success.
  • BJJ empowers smaller-framed people to use techniques and leveraging versus force to overcome a larger opponent.
  • BJJ introduces children to physical contact in a safe environment.
  • BJJ is a “grappling sport” introducing children to movements on the ground which is realistic to real self-defense situations. Most self-defense altercations (more than 80 percent) end up on the ground. No other martial art addresses ground situations like BJJ.
  • BJJ empowers, builds confidence, and increases mental and physical strength.
  • BJJ is referred to as the “gentle martial art” giving children a positive martial arts experience.

Benefits of Brazilian Jiu-jitsu

Self Confidence Bully Prevention
Positive Body Image Teamwork
Trust & Respect Strength & Flexibility
Fitness & Conditioning Life Skill & Character Development

What is Brazilian jiu-jitsu?

self defense from the ground up

Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling-based martial art where the main objective is to control a resisting opponent. Since gaining control over an opponent has been proven to be easier on the ground than in a standing position, much of the techniques of BJJ is centered around the skill of taking an opponent down to the ground and wrestling for dominant control positions.

BJJ promotes the concept that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend against a bigger, stronger assailant by using leverage and proper technique. And students of the sport gain a deep understanding of the workings and limits of the human body.

The Great Flip online curriculum will introduce students to foundational Bjj movements and techniques. Students who participate in the curriculum (and continue to revisit the movements year after year) will gain a basic understanding of self-defense skills, prepare for the martial arts environment and improve overall health and wellness.

The Gentle Art.

“Jiu-jitsu” translates from the Japanese as “the gentle art.” The idea here is that practitioners can execute moves realistically and at full speed without having to worry they will injure their partner. If caught in a submission, practitioners are taught to “tap” their partner to signify discomfort, and the submitter will release the submission. Jiu-jitsu does not believe in strength, it believes in technique. It uses leverage to overcome muscle and weight.

A brief history.

In the last days of the 19th century, some jiu-jitsu masters emigrated from Japan to other continents. Mitsuyo Maeda was one such master. Maeda arrived in Brazil in 1915, and settled in Belem do Para, where he met a man named Gastao Gracie. The father of eight children, among them five boys and three girls, Gastao became a jiu-jitsu enthusiast and brought his oldest son, Carlos, to learn from the Japanese master.

For a naturally frail fifteen-year-old Carlos Gracie, jiu-jitsu became a method not simply for fighting, but for personal improvement. At nineteen, he moved to Rio de Janeiro with his family and began teaching and fighting. In his travels, Carlos would teach classes, and also proved the efficiency of the art by beating opponents who were physically stronger. In 1925, he returned to Rio and opened the first school, known as the “Academia Gracie de Jiu-Jitsu.”

Faith-Filled Empowerment.

Coach Jody equips parents to teach unique faith-filled empowerment resources to connect physical activities to social, emotional and spiritual growth. Children will discover their true source of power comes from God’s power (not girl power).

Jody Token is the coach and creator of The Great Flip, a self-defense, safety and faith-filled online curriculum for girls age six and up. Jody has spent twenty years working in the nonprofit industry inspiring young women to be tomorrow’s leaders. Jody intends to counter the culture by exposing “girl power” lies and proclaiming the good news of God’s power. The Great Flip is a national program alliance for American Heritage Girls (AHG). Jody writes content for AHG, True Girl, a ministry of Dannah Gresh and various Christian ministries.  Jody’s daughters inspired her to develop an online self-defense experience to gain a basic understanding of the martial art Brazilian jiu-jitsu and improve overall health and wellness.

Download a free excerpt of My Anti-Bully Ebook.

Request a free lesson plan.

Read blogs to enrich your experience.

Listen to my podcasts to connect you to like-minded Christian leaders.

Gather your family and your friends and train together! Yes, you can share a subscription with a group of families or co-op. But please do not share outside of your group to protect your password and my hard work. Let’s get started!

See you on the mat! – Coach Jody

Click here to shop all plans

Request a free video and lesson plan

 

 

Anti-bully Handbook Coach Jody bullying-fear-germs

 

The Great Flip is an American Heritage Girls national program alliance

To learn more about The Great Flip, click here for the home page

 

 

 

the great flip break fall

Try Two Self-Defense Skills and Drills for only $4.99

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I’m trying a new feature over at DropBox and I would love for you to check it out. For a short time, you can try two self-defense skills and drills for only $4.99. You’ll learn the Break Fall skill, the Technical Lift skill, and then you will put the skills together into a fun drill.

It’s a great way for you to try my self-defense videos without a long-term commitment. Of course, it’s my hope that you will LOVE your training and sign up to gain access to all my videos and save money in the long run.

My videos follow this format:

  • Each video is approximately three minutes in length, easy to watch, rewatch and train with girls age six and older (the whole family can get in on the action too);
  • I teach one technique per video, you’ll see me teach the technique, then watch girls of various ages give it a try. You’ll observe the progression of mastery as the girl progress with age and ability.
  • No martial arts experience is required! Simply watch the online videos and train! I have designed the videos so anyone can watch, learn and train together. 

Click here to get started

Try Two Self-Defense Skills on DropBox

Two Safety & Self-Defense Skills Every Girl Should Learn

Would you know what to do if someone pushed you to the ground? Whether it’s a bully or a slippery situation, Coach Jody, creator of The Great Flip, online self-defense, safety and faith, will teach you and your daughter how to fall and minimize injury. You will also learn how to get up safely. Each video is three minutes or less and equips you to teach your daughter self-defense skills that are fun, playful and empowering for ages six and up. Gain access to all the streaming self-defense videos and Christian worldview resources at www.thegreatflip.com Roll out a yoga mat or interlocking mats and let’s get started! Click here to purchase this training series. 

Click here 

 

The Great Flip is online self-defense, safety and faith-filled empowerment for girls ages six and up.

Overcome fear.

bullying-fear-germsWhat keeps your daughter (and you) awake at night?

  • Bullies
  • Bad guys
  • Fear
  • Anxiety

Give her courage.

  • Create your own online martial arts experience
  • Teach self-defense at home, school and after school
  • An online self-defense training experience that’s fun, playful and empowering

Shop Online Plans

Request a Free Video

Let me know about your experience at jody@thegreatflip.com

Coach Jody

Benefits of online self-defense training:

AT HOME

Learn self-defense skills in the comfort of your own home with trusted family and friends. Homeschool, physical education, after-school enrichment.

AT SCHOOL

Add online self-defense to your school. The Great Flip offers everything you need to teach the martial art Brazilian jiu-jitsu for physical education, homeschool co-op and after-school enrichment.

ANYWHERE

Add online self-defense to an after-school enrichment program, youth group camps and retreats, a fitness center, a martial arts club, almost anywhere! No experience is required. I’ll equip you with everything you need. Let’s get started.

 

Christmas in July

Christmas in July and Servant Leadership Devotions

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Enjoy two summer devotions with your daughters! I wrote these for True Girl’s subscription box resource. The first devotion is about celebrating Christmas in July and the other one is about servant leadership.

When I read this Bible verse it reminds me that peace is more than a feeling to pursue. Peace is a gift to be received.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”  Isaiah 9:6

Christmas in July Christmas in July

Have you ever considered hosting a “Christmas in July” party? When I read this Bible verse it reminds me that peace is more than a feeling to pursue. Peace is a gift to be received. “For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given.”

So why not celebrate the Prince of Peace this summer?

Decorate an outdoor tree, sing Christmas carols, read the Christmas story in Luke two, and make homemade ornaments, popcorn garlands and glitter pinecones. Make Jesus, the Prince of Peace the center of your celebration! 

ACTION POINT: Tell us about your Christmas in July party. What is your favorite Christmas carol? Mine is “Go, tell it to the mountains!”

 

To Lead is to Serve

If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” John 13:14

Have you ever washed someone’s feet? It’s kinda gross; especially if the feet are dirty, smelly or sweaty. 

You’d think the disciples would have washed Jesus’ feet. After all, Jesus was the leader. But Jesus modeled a new way of leadership. Instead of commanding his disciples, he served his disciples by washing their stinky feet. 

Next time you are put in charge as the leader, how can you be a servant leader? Instead of commanding everyone, serve with them to accomplish your goals.

ACTION POINT: How can you be a servant leader? How about washing your parents’ feet? Or plan a service project? 

JODY TOKEN is the creator and coach of The Great Flip, online self-defense, safety and faith-filled empowerment for girls ages six and up. Request a free video at www.thegreatflip.com

Online Self-Defense Training Begins Here

Are you training with me this summer using my online self-defense videos at The Great Flip? How’s it going? Do you know how to escape when someone grabs your wrist? Do you remember what to do when someone grabs you from behind?

My streaming videos are simple, safe and empowering! Request a free video. Click here to begin your self-defense training experience. See you on the mat!

Coach Jody

 

no-contact safety tip your body homeschool martial arts

 

 

 

 

online self-defense for girls

Six Reasons Brazilian Jiu-jitsu is the Best Martial Art for Girls

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Parents tell their daughters to play nice. We instruct them to never hit, kick or hurt people. But the minute she faces a bully, panic sets in. And for that matter, panic strikes the heart of every parent. How should we teach our daughters to defend themselves? Here are six reasons Brazilian jiu-jitsu is the best martial art for girls.

Don’t worry, I couldn’t pronounce it either. Most practitioners go with “BJJ.” Go with it. Now back to my story.

A common reaction to fear, anxiety, low self-esteem, and bullies is a bee-line to a martial arts academy. But which martial art is best?

When my daughters were in high school and soon into college, panic hit my heart. Soon, daddy nor I would be near our little girls. We began to research martial arts.

First, we researched Krav Maga which is a military self-defense and fighting system developed for the Israeli military. It requires a lot of strength, precision, and aggression. Three attributes many girls do not possess especially at a young age. And when confronted by a larger opponent, a girl will not be able to out-muscle the opponent. This style of training might be okay for adults, but not for children.

Two popular martial arts are Karate and Tae Kwon Do. These sports focus on movements and high kicks. These martial arts are fun and will definitely improve coordination skills, but they are not realistic in situational self-defense, especially when the fight goes to the ground. In these martial arts, the “game” is over when someone hits the ground. And in real life, the game is won or lost on the ground. Research reveals that more than 80 percent of altercations land on the ground. A high karate kick might be cool on the mat, but not on the streets.

Then we found Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ).

I discovered the martial art called Brazilian jiu-jitsu. I’ve been a fan ever since. The resources and training at The Great Flip are inspired by BJJ.

Six reasons BJJ is best for a child’s first exposure to self-defense, because:

#1 BJJ allows students to live drill techniques with success.

#2 BJJ empowers smaller-framed people to use techniques and leveraging versus force to overcome a larger opponent.

#3 BJJ introduces children to physical contact in a safe environment.

#4 BJJ is a “grappling sport” introducing girls to movements on the ground which is realistic to self-defense situations.

#5 BJJ empowers girls to build confidence, and increase mental and physical strength.

#6 BJJ is referred to as the “gentle martial art” giving girls a positive martial arts experience.

Benefits of Brazilian Jiu-jitsu online self defense for girls

  • Self Confidence
  • Bully Prevention
  • Positive Body Image
  • Teamwork Trust & Respect
  • Strength & Flexibility
  • Fitness & Conditioning
  • Life Skill & Character Development 

What is Brazilian jiu-jitsu?

Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling-based martial art where the main objective is to control a resisting opponent. Since gaining control over an opponent has been proven to be easier on the ground than in a standing position, much of the techniques of BJJ is centered around the skill of taking an opponent down to the ground and wrestling for dominant control positions. In its application in self-defense, I focus on control, defense and escapes for girls using BJJ principles. There is no striking or kicking in BJJ, but there is training to defend yourself from these attacks at an age-appropriate level.

BJJ promotes the concept that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend against a bigger, stronger assailant by using leverage and proper technique. And students of the sport gain a deep understanding of the workings and limits of the human body. 

The Great Flip online curriculum will introduce students to foundational Bjj movements and techniques. Students who participate in the curriculum (and continue to revisit the movements year after year) will gain a basic understanding of self-defense skills, prepare for the martial arts environment and improve overall health and wellness. My coaching style is fun, playful and empowering. 

Request a free video

Enroll in The Great Flip online courses

The Gentle Art.

“Jiu-jitsu” translates from the Japanese as “the gentle art.” The idea here is that practitioners can execute moves realistically and at full speed without having to worry they will injure their partner. If caught in a submission, practitioners are taught to “tap” their partner to signify discomfort, and the submitter will release the submission. Jiu-jitsu does not believe in strength, it believes in technique. It uses leverage to overcome muscle and weight. 

What you will need to train BJJ from The Great Flip:

Whether you are training at home, at school or after school, you will need these items to get started:

  1. Membership Plan with The Great Flip. Click here to find a plan that works for you.
  2. Internet connection to stream the videos from Vimeo.com.
  3. Comfortable exercise clothes
  4. A designated training space with mats (interlocking mats, gymnastics mats and/or yoga mats.) Here is my workout space at home: https://vimeo.com/289726478 
  5. A training partner. (I do have a few “no-contact” modifications to get started, but eventually, you’ll need a training buddy.)

Request a free video

Enroll in The Great Flip online courses

Great Time to join The Great FlipPunch Protection 101

 

online self-defense for girls

The Great Flip offers faith-filled empowerment interviews, blogs, and podcasts! Click here. 

The Great Flip is a national program alliance for American Heritage Girls.

Coach Jody is a contributing writer to True Girl, a Dannah Gresh ministry, Christian Parenting.org, and Homeschool.com.

New Strength

Learning self-defense is fun. It strengthens the body. But God’s power strengthens the body, mind and spirit. Enjoy this devotion and activity with your daughter. (As featured in the True Girl subscription box.)

“He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:29-31

My daughters are small-framed young ladies. Girls, in general, are smaller and less muscular than our male counterparts. If my daughters were to find themselves in a self-defense situation and their adversary is stronger, no amount of their strength will win the fight. 

My husband and I chose a martial art called Brazilian jiu-jitsu. The training method in jiu-jitsu says a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend themselves against a bigger, stronger, heavier opponent by using leverage and weight distribution, taking the fight to the ground and using a number of holds and submissions to defeat them. Jiu-jitsu trains the body and mind to not grow weary, outsmart the opponent and overcome the situation. 

When God spoke these words to Isaiah, his people were in exile. They had rebelled against God and overcome by a stronger advisory because of their sin. Yet, God in his mercy promised to rescue, redeem and revive them. Not because of their strength or ability, but because of his power, mercy and love toward them. 

When you feel weak, powerless, tired and exhausted, God has good news for you. Romans 5:6 says, “When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners.” 

Wow! His death and resurrection power gives you new strength to overcome your toughest battles. Remember your identity and your power comes from Jesus!

Activity Point: Pretend and fly around the room like a soaring eagle thanking God for new strength through Jesus! To learn more about your identity and power in Christ, read Colossians 2. To learn about Brazilian jiu-jitsu contact Coach Jody at her online program www.thegreatflip.com. Contact me and I’ll send you a free video! 

Bio: Jody Token is the creator and coach of The Great Flip, online self-defense, safety and faith-filled empowerment for girls age six and up at www.thegreatflip.com

 

#thegreatflip

 

Coach Jody’s True Girl Devotions

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There’s nothing better than proclaiming the good news of Jesus’ love … for you! The Gospel (the good news) is my primary concern in every devotion I write. It’s the upside down or “the great flip” of scripture. He took all your sin and gave you his perfection. Martin Luther called it the great exchange, but I call it The Great Flip.

“For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” 2 Corinthians 5:21

When God sees you through the lens of Christ crucified, he sees you restored, redeemed and perfect.  No amount of good work earns this salvation. It is on Christ alone that you are free. It is my hope that from this good news you are compelled to tell your friends and family about God’s great love for them too, thus extending the kingdom of God. Not “for” your freedom, but “from” your freedom.

I was privileged to write devotions for my friends at True Girl, a ministry of Dannah Gresh. True Girl ministers to mothers and daughters to create opportunities to discover deep Biblical truths together, so they grow closer to each other and closer to Jesus. Because once you know the Truth, it will set you free.

Share these devotions with your girls. Participate in the “Action Point” at the end of each devotion to create personal application to each Biblical truth.

 

Health for Your Body and Bones! girl power vs God's power

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones. { Proverbs 3:5–8 } 

It’s important to take good care of your body. Eating whole foods like fruits and veggies, drinking water instead of soda, spending more time being active than you spend on screens, and getting enough sleep are four awesome ways you can do that! But the Bible says there’s something else that brings health and nourishment to you. When you trust in the Lord, you have less stress. When you have less stress, you worry less. When you worry less, your body becomes healthy and your bones grow strong. Why trust God? Because He loves you! “For this is how God loved the world: He gave His one and only Son so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). That is a promise you can trust! Let it sink into your body and bones! 

ACTION POINT: What do you worry about? Write about it in your prayer diary and ask God to help you trust Him with that part of your life. 

 

Rest Is a Gift

“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.” { Exodus 20:8 } ukulele

When it comes to taking care of your body, mind, and spirit, it’s important to remember the Sabbath day. That’s what the Bible calls a day of rest. Rest matters just as much as being active does. After riding your bike or playing soccer, your body needs rest to recover. The same goes for everyday life.

My daughter, Megan, is a senior in college. She struggles with perfectionism and anxiety. But she’s discovered the joy of Sabbath rest. It has changed her life and helped her be more peaceful. She now sees Sabbath as a gift. It provides the motivation she needs to work hard all week, so on Sunday morning, she can enjoy church with her friends, grow spiritually as she hears God’s Word, take communion and celebrate her baptism. Megan doesn’t think about homework or her “to-do” list. Instead, she gives it to God, and He gives her rest and joy. Not every week is perfect, but it’s a pattern of living that’s brought order to her routine. Sunday afternoons, she takes time to hang out with friends, lay on the couch, do art projects, plays her ukulele, or go for a hike. This commandment is now a beautiful gift she enjoys every Sunday. You can enjoy it too! 

ACTION POINT: Talk to your mom about Sabbath. What activities do you need to prioritize during the week to give your family the gift of Sabbath rest? What would you do if that day was free of “to-do” lists? 

 

Motivation 101 jump for joy

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God,  not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” { Ephesians 2:8–9 }

I’m not a math whiz at all. Far from it. But there’s one math equation that motivates me to take care of my body, eat healthy foods, work hard, love God, and serve my neighbor.

It’s this simple equation: Jesus + nothing = everything.

Let me show you the opposite, false equation: Jesus + something = nothing.

The world teaches us to do more to get more. But God’s math is different. When we do good things like show kindness to others or memorize Scripture verses, we aren’t trying to earn God’s love. We already have it! And we cannot take credit for it. Sometimes our bad math even shows up when we think about our salvation story. Anything good we have or do is because of Jesus’ finished work on the cross. That includes God’s gift of salvation. Sometimes it’s hard to understand this and just accept Christ’s death on the cross as a gift. But that’s just what it is: a free gift! 

ACTION POINT: In your diary, write today’s verse. Under it, list a few reasons you are grateful for God’s grace to you. Then, thank God for all of His finished work on the cross. 

 

Receive New Strength

“He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” { Isaiah 40:29–31 }

My husband and I wanted our daughters to learn self-defense skills. We chose a martial art called Brazilian jiu-jitsu. The training method says a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend themselves against a bigger, stronger, heavier opponent. It trains the body and mind to outsmart the opponent, overcome the situation, and not grow weary.

God’s people felt weak and powerless when they were in exile. That means they’d been taken from their home and forced to live in a foreign land. They’d rebelled against God and were overcome by a stronger adversary because of their sin. Yet God, in His mercy, promised to rescue and redeem them not because of their strength or ability, but because of His power, mercy, and love toward them.

When you feel weak, powerless, and exhausted, God has good news for you. Romans 5:6 says, “For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.” Wow! His resurrection power gives you new strength to overcome your toughest battles. Remember, your identity and power come from Jesus! 

ACTION POINT: Pretend to fly around the room like a soaring eagle and thank God for new strength through Jesus! To learn more about your identity and power in Christ, read Colossians 2. 

 

Girl Power Vs. God Power online self-defense for girls

“For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” { Philippians 4:13 } 

When my daughter first saw this verse, she was excited by the possibilities! She could win first place in her cross country meet or ace her math test. But no matter how hard she tried, she didn’t get first place, and that math test was harder than she expected. She felt exhausted and defeated.

Who is the source of your strength? Your own girl power or God’s power? Girl power is driven by results. The promise is conditional. If you work hard enough and win, you get credit. If you work hard and fail, then you feel like a failure. Girl power is fake power. But God’s power is unconditional, never-ending, and a gift from Jesus.

This Bible verse, penned by the Apostle Paul, promises Christ-followers the power of Jesus in all circumstances. That means on bad days, you can be OK. Christ’s strength empowers you in any situation, whether it’s good or bad. If you win, He celebrates with you. If you lose, God strengthens you with His comfort and peace. God’s power is real power. A girl can do anything not because of who she is or how hard she tries. A girl can do anything because of whose she is, and His name is Jesus! 

ACTION POINT: Write “girl power” on a piece of paper. Now rip it up and throw it in the trash. Next, write today’s verse and things you need strength for today. Thank God for His power in your life!

Coach Jody

Your Coach

 Jody Token, a certified Brazilian jiu-jitsu instructor and national girl-ministry influencer, intends to empower girls (age six and up)  to overcome fear with faith and sneak in a few super-power ninja skills.

The Great Flip empowers girls with online self-defense, safety and faith-filled resources. Girls learn simple self-defense skills at home, at school and after-school.

Jody’s daughters inspired her to develop an online self-defense experience to gain a basic understanding of the martial arts, avoid the germy gym, and improve overall health and wellness. The Great Flip is a national program alliance for American Heritage Girls, a Christ-centered character and leadership development program for girls five to 18 years of age. Coach Jody intends to counter the culture by exposing the lies of girl power and proclaiming the gospel of God’s power.

Jody Token, Press Sheet

Contact Coach Jody

Support Coach Jody

 

Click here to request a free video and learn a fun, playful and empowering self-defense skill from Coach Jody

 

 

 

The Great Flip Online Self-Defense Curriculum

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Thank you!  My online self-defense, safety and faith-filled resources have become a big hit for families.

Shout out to American Heritage Girls and True Girls everywhere for becoming faith-filled empowered girls! 💪🏼

It’s time to spread the word to more families so they can incorporate my online resources into their homeschool, in school (for P.E. class) and after-school enrichment activities!

Refer a friend and receive a free gift for yourself and your friend! Click here to learn more.

no-contact safety tip your body

There’s a plan for every budget. Click here to pick a plan.

Why teach self-defense to children age six and older?

Confidence. Courage. Control.  

Learning self-defense will increase your students’ confidence and inspire courage. And bonus … Online self-defense puts you in control of a safe experience.

The curriculum and videos will introduce students to fundamental self-defense movements and techniques inspired by the martial art called Brazilian jiu-jitsu. You will introduce elements of a martial arts experience to your students including bowing, teamwork, discipline and respect.

Who is using Self-defense Curriculum?

The online self-defense curriculum is now available for 1st – 12th grades. The curriculum is being used by educators to meet physical education and extra-curricular goals in the public, private, parochial and home school environments:

  • Mom & Dad
  • Physical education (PE) teachers
  • Athletic directors
  • After-school program directors
  • Homeschool educators
  • Youth leaders
  • Directors of Christian education
  • Camp directors
  • Team-building directors
  • Self-defense instructors

online self defense for girls

The Great Flip Online Self-defense Curriculum includes:

  • A total of 32 videos 
  • Online curriculum PDF
  • Eight lesson plans PDF
  • Eight Talking Points PDF
  • Class Structure Video 
  • Warm-up Exercises Video 
  • Stretches Video 
  • Animal-inspired Conditioning Drills Video
  • Jiu-jitsu-inspired Games Video 
  • 20 Self-Defense Technique Videos
  • Seven Bonus Self-Defense Technique Videos
  • A total of 27 Self-Defense Technique Videos

The curriculum is complete with downloadable lesson plans, talking points, and online videos for every segment of your class experience including warm-up exercises, stretches, conditioning drills, jiu-jitsu-inspired games and of course, empowering self-defense techniques and movements. 

mats for online self-defense

There’s a plan for every budget. Click here to pick a plan.

What you need to provide:

  • Mats
  • Training space
  • Strong WiFi
  • No experience is required
  • A teachable spirit

Click here to read my “Welcome” blog for more information.

Click here to request a free video and lesson plan

 

The Great Flip Approach

The Great Flip Curriculum is a non-combative approach to self-defense. The student will not be taught to strike, kick or use aggression or force. They will explore movements in a safe and positive environment. They will learn life skills such as falling safely to the ground. They will learn discipline, teamwork and trust. They will learn about distance management, situational awareness, punch protection, and techniques to de-escalate and escape situations. They will be challenged mentally and physically while learning foundational Bjj movements without fear.

The primary objective of The Great Flip online self-defense curriculum is the exploration of physical movement for self-defense inspired by the martial art called Brazilian jiu-jitsu. They will grow mentally, physically and emotionally with this curriculum. 

Educational Outcomes

online self defense for girls

  • Introduction to, and basic understanding of the martial art Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ).
  • Introduction to, and basic understanding of a typical martial art class experience.
  • Introduction to self-defense techniques and physical movements inspired by Bjj.
  • Improved physical fitness by learning and executing movements and techniques. 
  • Improved confidence and courage in executing self-defense techniques.
  • Increased control of physical, emotional and mental self.
  • Increased confidence in gaining positive body language skills.
  • Improved situational awareness learning how to assert, assess and take action.
  • Improved character development skills understanding self-defense as a holistic approach to life.

Click here to request a free video and lesson plan

 

Brazilian Jiu-jitsu is best for children’s first exposure to self-defense, because:

  • BJJ allows students to live drill techniques with success. 
  • BJJ empowers smaller-framed people to use techniques and leveraging versus force to overcome a larger opponent.  
  • BJJ introduces children to physical contact in a safe environment.
  • BJJ is a “grappling sport” introducing children to movements on the ground which is realistic to real self-defense situations. Most self-defense altercations (more than 80 percent) end up on the ground. No other martial art addresses ground situations like BJJ. 
  • BJJ empowers, builds confidence, and increases mental and physical strength. 
  • BJJ is referred to as the “gentle martial art” giving children a positive martial arts experience.

Benefits of Brazilian Jiu-jitsu

Self Confidence Bully Prevention
Positive Body Image Teamwork
Trust & Respect Strength & Flexibility
Fitness & Conditioning Life Skill & Character Development

What is Brazilian jiu-jitsu?

self defense from the ground up

Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling-based martial art where the main objective is to control a resisting opponent. Since gaining control over an opponent has been proven to be easier on the ground than in a standing position, much of the techniques of BJJ is centered around the skill of taking an opponent down to the ground and wrestling for dominant control positions. 

BJJ promotes the concept that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend against a bigger, stronger assailant by using leverage and proper technique. And students of the sport gain a deep understanding of the workings and limits of the human body.

The Great Flip online curriculum will introduce students to foundational Bjj movements and techniques. Students who participate in the curriculum (and continue to revisit the movements year after year) will gain a basic understanding of self-defense skills, prepare for the martial arts environment and improve overall health and wellness.

The Gentle Art.

“Jiu-jitsu” translates from the Japanese as “the gentle art.” The idea here is that practitioners can execute moves realistically and at full speed without having to worry they will injure their partner. If caught in a submission, practitioners are taught to “tap” their partner to signify discomfort, and the submitter will release the submission. Jiu-jitsu does not believe in strength, it believes in technique. It uses leverage to overcome muscle and weight. 

A brief history.

In the last days of the 19th century, some jiu-jitsu masters emigrated from Japan to other continents. Mitsuyo Maeda was one such master. Maeda arrived in Brazil in 1915, and settled in Belem do Para, where he met a man named Gastao Gracie. The father of eight children, among them five boys and three girls, Gastao became a jiu-jitsu enthusiast and brought his oldest son, Carlos, to learn from the Japanese master.

For a naturally frail fifteen-year-old Carlos Gracie, jiu-jitsu became a method not simply for fighting, but for personal improvement. At nineteen, he moved to Rio de Janeiro with his family and began teaching and fighting. In his travels, Carlos would teach classes, and also proved the efficiency of the art by beating opponents who were physically stronger. In 1925, he returned to Rio and opened the first school, known as the “Academia Gracie de Jiu-Jitsu.” 

 

Coach Jody offers video-only plans called the Empowered and Strong Plans

Curriculum plans are called Confident and Courageous Plans.

Click here to shop all plans

 

 

Try a self-defense skill inspired by Brazilian jiu-Jitsu.

 

Now watch this curriculum-inspired video.

 

 

About Coach Jody

Coach Jody is a certified Brazilian jiu-jitsu instructor and mother of two daughters. Her daughters inspired her to develop an online self-defense experience to gain a basic understanding of self-defense skills, prepare for the martial arts environment and improve overall health and wellness.

The Great Flip is a nationally-recognized program alliance for American Heritage Girls, a national Christ-centered character and leadership development organization for girls 5 to 18 years of age. Coach Jody has spent twenty years inspiring young women to be tomorrow’s leaders.

Coach Jody

 

Now it’s your turn

Click here to request a free video and lesson plan.

There’s a plan for every budget. Click here to pick a plan.

 

 

AHG

Empower Your Girl to Make Wise Decisions with these Four Tips

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My friends at American Heritage Girls (AHG) asked me to share a devotion empowering girls to make wise decisions. This devotion is part of the AHG Free to Grow Patch Program.  The Great Flip is a national program alliance for AHG. I’m honored to share these tips. To learn more about AHG, click here.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

Tip #1 Use the 10 Commandments to guide your decision-making.

 

The 10 Commandments are clear about certain decisions. For example; Do not steal, Do not lie, Do not murder, Do not covet, etc. You should definitely review these 10 words from the Lord. These 10 commandments serve as a curb (keep you safe), a mirror (see your sin and see your need for a savior), and a sign (point you in the right way of living). The commandments are more than a list of things NOT to do. They can also serve as guides on the good you can do to love your neighbor.

Because of the 10 Commandments, I know not to steal other people’s stuff but instead, I help and serve people to improve and protect their possessions. And this decision goes beyond just stealing things, it addresses the way we use our time and talents. We give our time to work hard (not be lazy or steal away our time or effort). We acquire our goods in an honest way and do not take advantage of others.  

Tip #2  Read the Proverbs

When scripture does not clearly address a particular decision you face, read the book of Proverbs. Proverbs describe wisdom as the beginning of knowledge. According to Proverbs, having wisdom keeps you out of trouble. Wisdom keeps you from looking like a fool and allows you to make wise decisions. Wisdom is more than good judgment – wisdom is Jesus Christ Himself. Wisdom spoke creation into existence. Wisdom created you. When you have decisions to make, you have direct access to Wisdom – that is Jesus your Savior. Read Provers and picture Jesu as your Wisdom.

Tip #3 Surround yourself with godly mentors

Wise people can help you talk out your problems and verbalize your feelings. They can help you find Bible verses that address your situation and guide you to wise decisions. Find wise friends, family and leaders who love the Lord.

Tip #4 Pray

Take your decision-making to the Lord in prayer.

If you cannot come up with your own words, pray God’s word. Pray the Psalms and Proverbs and the Lord’s Prayer. These three resources contain all of God’s promises for you.

The Great Flip about decision-making:

And here’s a “great flip” for you to remember. I bet you are putting a lot of pressure on yourself to make the right decision and feel the anxiety of “what if” I make the wrong decision. In Colossians chapter two, Paul says the answer to God’s mystery is knowing Jesus as your Savior. Everything flows from this truth. No amount of correct or incorrect decisions will save you. Christ alone saves. What a relief!

Jesus made the wisest decision of all when He decided to love you.

When you follow these four tips, you can trust God in your decisions. Even if you mess up, God redeems all things. He redeemed you. He made a wise decision when he made you. He promises to be your decision-maker. He decided to wonderfully make you in your mother’s womb. He decided to send Jesus because he loves you. He decided to forgive you all of your sins when he died on the cross for you. He decided to give you his perfect righteousness when he rose from the dead and defeated sin, death and the devil. He decided to give you the gift of a sound mind (through Christ), talents, skills, passion, and purpose to love and serve others.

You can make wise decisions not to earn God’s love, but because you already have it. 

Watch my video as I share the four tips as I walk through a little general store then in the country with my dog Brandy.

Coach Jody is the creator and coach at The Great Flip online self-defense, safety and faith-filled empowerment for girls age six and up.

Click here to request a free self-defense video.

 

How AHG Troops use The Great Flip patch program, Click here. 

homeschool martial arts

You can teach a martial art with The Great Flip

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You can teach a martial art to your children using my online resources from The Great Flip!

Adding a martial art unit to your homeschool schedule and/or afterschool enrichment will fulfill your child’s physical education requirements and add a ton of value to your child’s character development. Instead of going out to a big box martial arts academy, bring the martial arts experience home. Here are a few reasons why:

  • It’s a fun and healthy outlet to release energy
  • It will improve focus on schoolwork
  • It will boost your child’s confidence
  • It will develop strength and flexibility
  • It will empower your child to overcome fear of bullies
  • You control the schedule and expense
  • It offers real-life application to self-defense
  • It’s a fun activity the whole family can enjoy
  • It puts you in control of the experience

Let’s begin with the last point, first:

“Mom & Dad, you are in control of the experience.”

This was the most important benefit to me. Let me preface this with the fact that I have daughters. I was ultra-sensitive to the messaging at a particular martial arts academy. The environment was male-dominate, built for disciplining boys, and lacked emotional intelligence for motivating different personalities.

I wasn’t looking for a participation trophy for my girls, but I was looking for a place where girls could thrive safely. Depending on your child, he or she may not be ready for a co-ed training experience. As a homeschool parent and coach, you get to control the situation and the talking points. You know how to motivate and discipline your child. When you bring the martial arts experience home, you can teach the skills and motivate your child as you see fit. And of course, you get to control the cleanliness factor too; just saying.

Four tips to begin your online martial arts experience:

#1. Choose a martial art.

I was seeking a martial arts experience that would have a strong self-defense application for my daughters. I picked the martial art called Brazilian jiu-jitsu (Bjj). Bjj is a grappling sport which means there is a lot of ground movement, much like wrestling.

The overall strategy of Bjj is to control your opponent. It focuses on skills to take an opponent to the ground, controlling one’s opponent, gaining a dominant position, and using a number of techniques to force them into submission.

Studies show that 95 percent of street fights end on the ground. The techniques learned in Bjj enable participants to escape, attack or get into a more dominant position.

Bjj is also a martial art designed for a smaller, weaker practitioner to subdue much larger and stronger opponents. Participants use techniques and leveraging skills instead of relying on brute force. All martial arts provide confidence and courage, but only Bjj connects the sport to self-defense in a way that everyone, of all ages, can learn.

#2. Create a training space.

You don’t need a large amount of space to train at home, but to protect the lamp and china, you might want to create a training/fitness space. I purchased interlocking mats. You can also find inexpensive three-fold gymnastic mats. If you want to get fancy and go all out, you can purchase professional Bjj mats. I spent $40 on two sets of interlocking mats. I have a basement/lower level in my house for my exercise space. Some people use their garage or a spare bedroom. Many homeschool families get together in their co-op and/or church to purchase mats and find a communal space to train together. Here’s a glimpse of my little training space at home: https://vimeo.com/289726478

#3 Get a training partner.

You can begin with a few “no-contact” movements and warm-ups, but in order to get the most benefit from the experience, you need a training buddy.  Learning a martial art with your child can be a fun and rewarding experience. Inviting your child’s best friend and a group of friends enhances the experience.

Brazilian jiu-jitsu is referred to as the gentle martial art. You and your child can simulate real techniques in real-time with a low risk for injury. Of course, there’s always a risk, but Bjj lends itself to learning real self-defense skills with low risks. In my instructional videos, I focus on escaping, controlling and submitting techniques inspired by Bjj movements. Click here to request a free video.

#4. Subscribe to a professional online self-defense/martial arts curriculum.

My husband and daughters inspired me to develop an online martial arts experience inspired by Bjj. After seven years of training Bjj and earning my purple belt, I took a leap of faith to bring martial arts to everyone with an online learning platform. My daughters appreciated the opportunity to train at home, train with trusted family and friends and feel empowered. Before launching The Great Flip, I did peek at YouTube, but all I found were sweaty guys filming from their garage. Most videos were designed for older boys and girls encouraging violent and aggressive self-defense tactics. I’m not opposed to aggressive behavior, but for my daughters, I wanted a level-headed approach to their training. Again, Bjj offered the best approach. Children as young as first grade through high school can benefit from my introductory approach. My teaching style is fun, playful and empowering. See you on the mat! – Coach Jody

Check out my streaming videos on Vimeo. Click here.

Contact me for a free lesson plan and videos. Click here.

Jody Token is the creator and coach of The Great Flip, online self-defense, safety and faith-filled empowerment for girls ages six and up. Request a free video at www.thegreatflip.com

The Great Flip is an American Heritage Girls national program alliance.

Coach Jody is a contributing writer for True Girl, a ministry of Dannah Gresh.

Click here to read devotions by Coach Jody.