Posts

see you on the mat

Animal-inspired Exercise

/in /by

These animal-inspired exercises are not only fun and empowering, but each drill is designed to improve your jiu-jitsu training. Even though these are solo drills, exercise is more fun with a friend!

If you are seeking physical education curriculum ideas for your home-school or private school, read to the end of this blog! I’ve got great lesson plans in the works for you!

Benefits of these drills

  • These animal-inspired drills actually mimmic the movement of real animals, so go ahead and add the animal sounds when you train;
  • When you don’t have your training buddy, these exercises are great solo drills;
  • No equipment required, so go ahead and do them inside, outside, in the kitchen, up and down the hallway, at summer camp, on a rainy day, in the rain, etc.;
  • Each exercise provides a full-body, strength and cardio workout in a short amount of time;
  • Of course these exercises are physically challenging, but they are also mentally stimulating; &
  • Each movement improves your future jiu-jitsu training experience.

Let’s get started! With each drill, set a timer and try to do each technique for :30 seconds. Build endurance and strength by adding time. These drills are not meant to be a race. They are meant to be done with the correct form and conditioning.

Bear Crawl

The correct way to do the Bear Crawl is to coordinate the movement of your arms and legs. Begin on your hands and feet. Your knees should be a few inches off the ground. As you move your left arm forward, move your right leg forward. Then with each proceeding step begins with the opposite arm and leg. As you can see from the video, I’m pretty good at the forward motion. But the backward motion is challenging for me. I can physically do the movement, but my body and my brain got a little behind. Be sure to keep your head up and eyes forward.

How does the Bear Crawl improve your jiu-jitsu game? I use the Bear Crawl when I’m about to be submitted by the Triangle submission. I “bear crawl” forward over my opponent which causes them to release the submission. Let me hear you roar!

Leap Frog

A strong leap frog will increase your explosive movement and balance in jiu-jitsu. The goal is not to take fast little jumps. Instead leap as high and as far as you can while at the same time, landing soft and controlled. Begin in a low squat position. Jump up as high and as far as possible and come back down all the way into the low squat. Make sure you control the landing. If you don’t you may hurt your knees or fall forward. After just a few, you will feel the burn.

Alligator Crawl

This is the most challenging movement for me. Much like the Bear Crawl, begin on your hands and feet and also move your opposite arm and leg forward. But in the alligator crawl, you will do a modified push up. As you execute your modified push up, your hip will drop to one side and your bent knee will extend out. You should feel this bent knee extension in your hip flexure. The deeper you can do the push up, the more challenging the exercise.

Coming Fall 2019

Physical Education Lesson Plans

Great Time to join The Great Flip

The animal-inspired drills will be part of a brand new self-defense curriculum from The Great Flip. Each lesson plan will include

  • Warm-up exercises
  • Conditioning drills
  • Stretching
  • Self-defense techniques inspired by Brazilian jiu-jitsu

Welcome to The Great Flip

 

Are you ready to learn simple self defense inspired by Brazilian jiu-jitsu? Welcome to The Great Flip, online self defense and life skills for girls ages six and up.

If you have ever wanted to try a self-defense class, but feel a little intimated by the big gym experience, try training with me, Coach Jody. Each video is approximately three to four minutes in length. I break-down one simple technique per video and walk you through each step. You will watch girls just like your daughters, age range from six to 13 trying the technique. We had so much fun making these videos together. And you will have a ton of fun learning the techniques with your favorite girl friends.  Learning self defense is a great way to get in shape while also learning valuable life skills!

Click on the 2 Ways to Join to learn more about The Great Flip online self-defense videos. See you on the mat! – Coach Jody

The Great Flip is a national program partner for American Heritage Girls

Want to learn a simple self-defense technique right now? Why not!

Let’s learn the Wrist Escape!

Click 2 Ways to join to gain access to more than 20 online self-defense videos! See you on the mat!

 

It’s A Great Time to Join The Great Flip

/in , /by

It’s a great time to join The Great Flip! I am coming up on my one-year anniversary which means there is a solid selection of online self-defense instructional videos to choose from. If you have hesitated to join in the past, the wait is over. Now is the time to learn self defense!

The Great Flip is an introduction to self defense for girls, ages 6 and up, inspired by Brazilian jiu-jitsu, nutrition and faith-based motivation.Great Time to join The Great Flip

If you have ever wanted to try a self-defense class, but feel a little intimated by the big gym experience, try training with me, Coach Jody. Each video is approximately three to four minutes in length. I break-down one simple technique per video and walk you through each step. You will watch girls just like your daughters, age range from six to 13 trying the technique. We had so much fun making these videos together. And you will have a ton of fun learning the techniques with your favorite girl friends.  Learning self defense is a great way to get in shape while also learning valuable life skills!

self defense from the ground up

The majority of the techniques featured in my online instructional videos are centered on escaping dicey situations, such as wrist escapes, choke escapes, bear hugs, etc. and of course becoming comfortable with movements on the ground inspired by Brazilian jiu-jitsu.  But I also introduce  a few submission techniques including The Arm Lock (Kimura), The Triangle and now, I am releasing The Arm Bar.

Learning these techniques in a safe environment will allow you to practice at your own pace with people you trust.

Right now, there are more than 20 videos available to subscribers with many more coming throughout the summer including the “Core 12 Self-Defense Techniques”, the “See you on my mat” video series and many more. Click 2 Ways to Join to learn more and get started.

If you’d prefer to begin with the “Core 12 Self-Defense Techniques” I do offer a non-subscriber program. Check that out too. 

See you on the mat! – Coach Jody

PS. And yes, you can order a Patch just like you see in this blog post. Patches are $3. Send me an email and I’ll process an order for you.

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

Now is a great time to join The Great Flip

Coach Jody

 

 

self defense from the ground up

Self Defense from the Ground Up

/in , /by

“Stay on your feet!” This is the advice I heard a self-defense instructor give a group of middle school students. Great advice. But 80 percent of self-defense situations end on the ground, especially for girls. Then what?

The ground becomes a position of power and strength when you train Brazilian jiu-jitsu!

The Great Flip is an introduction to self-defense inspired by the martial art called Brazilian jiu-jitsu (Bjj). Bjj is designed for smaller opponents to dominate larger ones using technique rather than strength. And Bjj is a grappling sport which means it spend a majority of its training addressing self-defense situation from the ground.

  • Self Defense from the Ground Up
  • Self Defense from the Ground Up
  • Self Defense from the Ground Up

Many traditional martial arts like Karate and Taekwondo have nice qualities but fall short in real-life application. Katas teach nice patterns of movements but do not address techniques required when a girl hits the ground and must defend herself from the floor. If a girl can’t be stronger is a self-defense situation, then jiu-jitsu will make her smarter!

The online videos from The Great Flip are designed for everyone, ages six and up. The program is designed to be fun, playful and empowering. Gain confidence and courage in a controlled environment training online. 

Get started in three easy steps:

The Great Flip overcomes these Fear-Factors!

If learning self defense feels overwhelming or scary, The Great Flip is a great place to start. Here are three fear-factors my daughters experienced and overcame by using my online self-defense program at The Great Flip:

Physical Location

  • Yep, a lot of Bjj gyms smell
  • The gym is too far away
  • The gym is full of fighters and not family-friendly
  • The gym requires a one-year costly contract, uniform fees, etc.

Physical Touch

  • You have to train and roll around with strangers
  • Yep, some strangers smell and are sweaty
  • You might be the only girl at the gym

Physical Fitness

  • You aren’t in shape yet
  • You can’t afford to join a Bjj gym and a fitness center

I developed The Great Flip to give everyone a positive experience.

A Better Experience at The Great Flip

  • Set up a simple training space (home gym). Read this blog to see my simple home gym set up (trust me, it’s very simple)
  • Train with familiar, trusted family and friends
  • Get in shape while you learn empowering life skills

From the Ground Up Skills you will learn as a subscriber

  • Ground Escape Drills
  • Bridges
  • Hip Escapes
  • Hip Bumps
  • Arm Locks
  • Arm Bars
  • Triangles
  • Punch Protection from the Ground

Here’s a glimpse into one on the ground drills you can learn. Find this and other promotional videos on my YouTube Channel at The Great Flip Self Defense. Be sure to subscribe!

Begin your self-defense journey with The Great Flip! Click here to get started!

See you on the mat! – Coach Jody

the great flip break fall

A Self-Defense Technique Every Girl (and Her Mom) Should Learn

/in , /by

Self defense is protection from potential injury. Sometimes this means defending yourself against a bully or aggressor. But today, I want to share one technique every girl (and her mom) should learn. I believe self defense is a life skill. And this technique is definitely a life skill! Check this out.

The Fall

We all do it. The most common reaction to falling to the ground is throwing our arms back to break the fall. And of course, the most common injuries from falls include strained or broken hands, wrists, elbows, arms and/or shoulders. And sometimes serious injury can occur to the head and spine.

the great flip break fall
The Break Fall

Try this test. From a safe seated position, roll backward and try NOT to use your arms or elbows to cushion you fall. We instinctively react by throwing our hands or elbows back to cushion the fall. Statistically, we are more likely to fall than to be involved in a serious self-defense situation. Inevitably, we will accidentally trip then fall or get pushed then fall.

It’s time to learn a new muscle memory and protect yourself from serious injury. Every girl and, yes you too, mom, should learn The Break Fall.

The Great Flip Break Fall

I teach simple self-defense techniques! Nothing difficult or crazy. But definitely life-changing and empowering for you and your daughters. The Great Flip is online self defense and life skills for girls ages six and up. I introduce girls (and her family) to self-defense techniques inspired by the martial art Brazilian jiu-jitsu. These techniques do not require super strength or coordination. As a matter of fact, the techniques will strengthen your body and promote coordination skills. Learning self defense is a great way to get physically fit while learning new life skills. You control the environment and the training partners. The Great Flip addresses three fear factors that girls typically face when they consider learning self defense. 

The Great Flip break fall

Most self defense programs rely on force-driven techniques and movements. But Brazilian jiu-jitsu relies on techniques and leveraging your body to move with intelligence. Girls are more likely to be the smaller person in a self-defense situation. She may not be able to muscle her way out of a situation. Jiu-jitsu will train your body to be stronger, and most importantly, to be smarter. Be sure to read my other blogs or listen to my podcasts in the self defense section to learn more about the benefits of jiu-jitsu for girls.

The Break Fall

There are two ways to subscribe to my online self-defense program. Both programs feature The Break Fall technique. The first program features 12 techniques (six from standing and six from the ground). Each video is approximately three minutes or less so you can watch, try, repeat, and master the technique. You can purchase all 12 videos for a one-time payment. No additional subscription content or videos are included in this option. Click 2 Ways to Join

The best program is a subscription program . For a small monthly fee, you gain access to all 12 techniques … and that is just the beginning. In addition, you gain unlimited access to my private “See You on My Mat” video series. In this series, I take you to my home studio and we break down each technique. I add variations, tips and challenges to the techniques. I also offer nutrition and faith-based motivation resources exclusively to my subscribers. Yes, you can learn these techniques at home. You’ll need a few simple supplies. Read this blog or listen to this podcast.

Click 2 Ways to Join to learn more

A Break Fall Video Promo

Now back to the Break Fall. Here is a video promotion to give you a sneak peak at the Break Fall technique. In this video I have designed a drill to simulate a fall and the proper way to get up off the ground to maintain a safe distance from your partner. This technique is called the Technical Lift. As I progress through the simple moves, I teach the girls about distance management.

 

 

Here is a break down of the first 12 Techniques you will learn from me here at The Great Flip:

The Standing Series includes:

  • The Break Fall
  • The Technical Lift
  • The Break Fall & Technical Lift Drill
  • The Wrist Escape
  • Choke Escape
  • Punch Protection (from Standing)

The Ground Series includes:

  • The Hip Escape
  • The Bridge
  • Ground Protection Drill
  • Hip Bump + Arm Lock Drill
  • Mount Escape
  • Punch Protection (from Ground)

Join me now! When you become a subscriber, gain access to more than 20 videos. More are being added all the time! I’d love to teach you and your favorite girls these simple yet powerful techniques. Subscribe now by clicking 2 Ways to Join!

See you on the mat! – Coach Jody

The Great Flip is a National Program Alliance for American Heritage Girls

faith vs martial arts

Can Faith and Martial Arts Co-exist?

/in /by

Faith and martial arts have co-existed for centuries. Many martial arts carry eastern mysticism origins with it. Symbols on the walls of a dojo or meditations used in the teaching may reflect these origins. Each dojo should be examined and prayerfully considered based on your comfort level. But apart from spirituality, learning a martial art has many benefits such as meeting fitness goals, learning self-defense skills and character development.

I’m thrilled to share a Christian worldview here at The Great Flip. From the beginning of The Great Flip journey, I’ve had three goals:

First, to give girls an online venue to try simple self-defense inspired by Brazilian jiu-jitsu in her own comfort zone with trusted family and friends.

Second, I want to emphasize nutrition as a form of self-defense against illness and obesity. I share recipes, resources and stories to equip and inspire girls to lead healthy, well-balanced lifestyles.

And finally, third, I want to give girls a Grace Place. A Grace Place is a safe space to learn about Jesus and discover his unconditional love for her. The Great Flip is for all people from all backgrounds and beliefs. I welcome everyone to ponder and mediate on the Christian worldview presented at The Great Flip.

Want to go deeper into Martial Arts and Spirituality. Listen to my friend at the Intersection of Jesus and Jiu-jitsu

Words of Wisdom

The martial art’s experience usually includes a moment of wisdom delivered by the wise instructor.  The sense, professor, or coach imparts wisdom to the student. They might talk about respect, authority and teamwork to name a few.

Here at The Great Flip, I have developed a series of “Words of Wisdom” talking points. Consider this my way of adding a spiritual element to the martial arts community. Each Word of Wisdom is downloadable, just look for the PDF file in the blog.  Each Word of Wisdom has a Bible verse, a short message and follow-up questions or comments for you to discuss with the girls in your life.

Feel free to open or close a “self-defense training” event with these talking points. Encourage the girls to memorize the Bible verses and reflect upon the teaching. Check back from time to time. I’ll continue to add The Great Flip Words of Wisdom!

Here’s a Sample from “Words of Wisdom #3”

Girl Power vs. God Power

  • faith vs martial arts

“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” Philippians 4:13

I believe jiu-jitsu is the best martial art for self-defense because it equips a smaller person to defend against a larger opponent. A girl learns to trust techniques, not her own strength.

Today’s culture attempts to convince girls to reach within herself to find strength. “Girl Power” sounds empowering, but in reality, it’s exhausting. Pressure to perform and expectations to succeed crush a girl’s spirit.  Girls suffer from depression and anxiety now more than any time in history. Girl power falls short. Thank goodness for God’s power! A girl can do anything NOT because of who she is. A girl can do anything because of WHOSE she is! Let His power strengthen you!

How would you describe the difference between Girl Power vs. God Power?

Ask God to fill you with His Power and memorize Philippians 4:13.

The Great Flip words of wisdom
Click here to download PDF

Subscribers to The Great Flip gain access to all the Words of Wisdom talking points.

Want to learn more about subscribing to The Great Flip?

Click 2 Ways to Join

To learn more about my online self-defense videos for girls ages 6-18 click here

The Great Flip is a National Program Alliance for American Heritage Girls

rescued from anorexia and the joy of food

Rescued from Anorexia and the Joy of Food

/in , /by

When Kristi Tatro was 16 years old, she was rescued from anorexia. Her story is a powerful testimony of Jesus as her Rescuer and Redeemer! Now with two daughters of her own, she is passionate about sharing the joy of food and the power of positive nutrition. And as the American Heritage Girl (AHG) National Director of Girl Impact, she can share her message of hope with girls everywhere.

And I’m honored, here at The Great Flip, to be in relationship with AHG. The Great Flip is a national program partner to AHG. I am blessed to share self-defense and life skills with AHG  girls, leaders, Troops and their families!  And I’m thrilled to pass along  AHG’s resources. To learn more about my relationship with AHG, Check out this previous blog post.

Podcast with Kristi Tatro, American Heritage Girls 

If you are an AHG fan, you’ll love the imagery of Kristi and I sitting down at the infamous AHG kitchen table. We had a “virtual” kitchen-table conversation so Kristi could share her testimony and expertise in nutrition.  Feel free to pull up a chair, pour yourself a cup of coffee (or tea) and join me and Kristi in this podcast. And if you are about to jump in the car, grab your smart phone, pull up your Spotify, Google Podcast or Anchor Apps and search for The Great Flip in the Podcast settings) Oh, and funny story, we tried to make a video, but our technology skills couldn’t quite pull it off, so lucky for you, I now have a fantastic podcast to share ! Click the play button below.

The  journey that led Kristi to AHG as the National Director of Girl Impact is inspiring.

Kristi has a B.S. in Health Appraisal and Enhancement/Sport Studies with minors in Nutrition and Gerontology.   Kristi is passionate about the next generation. She spent over 10 years working as the Family Ministry Pastor for LifePoint Church, and Four Corners Church, and volunteered her expertise on the leadership team at Anthem House Church; all three in West Chester, Ohio area. She then joined the team at American Heritage Girls, Inc. almost four years  ago and now serves as the National Director of Girl Impact. She oversees the development of the AHG program, builds strategic alliances/partnerships with like-minded organizations and ministries, secures sponsorship’s for AHG events, and manages the Annual Stewardship Campaign as well as major gifts.

Kristi says;

rescued from anorexia and the joy of food

I recently asked my oldest daughter, Kelsie, what her favorite holiday was and she joyfully exclaimed that it was Thanksgiving! When I asked her why it was her favorite, she told me “all the food and all the people!”

I was thrilled and quite surprised that my 15-year-old was so enthusiast about food and community. It is a goal of mine to raise daughters that appreciate the beauty of food and the power of gathering around it.

Holiday gatherings, in the American culture, are mostly associated with an abundance of food. It can easily be a season of over consumption for this reason.  I have tried to be an example to my daughters by doing my best to follow a few guidelines, especially around the holidays:

  • Everything in moderation.
  • Food is to be enjoyed-slow down, be present, and enjoy each bite.
  • Ask myself “what do you really want to eat?”
  • Ask myself “what is my body needing?”

My hope is that we break the cycle of passing down to our daughters any of our negative attitudes towards food and encourage them to see it as a wonderful gift that God has provided for us. May this holiday season be one that brings about new conversations around our relationship with God and the gift of coming together to enjoy the gift of food that He has provided. I’m becoming increasingly convinced that food is one of God’s love languages!

“God created [food] to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth. … [He] richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment” (1 Timothy 4:3; 6:17).

Thank you, Kristi for being vulnerable and transparent in this podcast. You are a shining light of servant leadership for our girls!

Want to learn a simple self-defense and life skill right now?  Watch this video!

The Great Flip is online self-defense and life skills for girls ages 6-18. You can subscribe to The Great Flip by clicking on 2 Ways to Join. Become a subscriber and gain unlimited access to simple self-defense instructional videos and learn in the comfort of your own home and/or American Heritage Girls Troop meeting. The videos are less than three minutes, easy to watch and learn.

If you are an American Heritage Girl leader, check out this page designed specifically for you at www.thegreatflip.com/AHG

American Heritage Girls

  • Yes, The Great Flip has a Patch
  • Yes, The Great Flip serves as an awesome girl leadership opportunity
  • Yes, The Great Flip accomplishes badge work such as the Martial Arts Sports Pin, and the Self-Defense requirement for Pi/Pa Emergency Preparedness

Yes, you need to subscribe to The Great Flip and teach your girls self-defense and life skills

See you on the mat!

Coach Jody

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me via jody@thegreatflip.com.

You can find The Great Flip Podcast in these free apps (be sure to give me a “like” or click the little heart button within the podcast):

Anchor

Breaker

Google Podcasts

Pocket Casts

RadioPublic

Spotify

online self-defense for girls reduces fear

Online Self-Defense for Girls Reduces Fear and Builds Confidence

/in /by

Yes, online self-defense for girls does reduce fear and it builds confidence! The Great Flip was featured in the news with this headline!

I spoke to a Dad the other day who is using The Great Flip videos for his seven year-old daughter. She was very anxious about the big gym experience. Now they are learning self defense at home and her confidence is blooming!

Want to learn more about the three most common fear-factors girls experience and how online self-defense is removing these obstacles? Listen to my podcast

If you are looking to share news and information about my online self-defense program for girls, feel free to use this content. You can also contact me directly through my contact form on the website or my email address at jody@thegreatflip.com

 

Online Self-Defense for Girls Reduces Fear and Builds Confidence

Contact: Jody Token, jody@thegreatflip.com

ST. LOUIS, Sept. 10, 2018 /Christian Newswire/ — Online instructional videos from The Great Flip www.thegreatflip.com give girls a unique way to learn self-defense skills to reduce fear and increase confidence.American Heritage Girls, the national faith-based character development organization for girls named The Great Flip its newest Further Learning Program Alliance partner.

“Self-defense training can be scary for girls. The mere mention of attackers and bullies create anxiety,” says founder and coach, Jody Token. She developed the website www.TheGreatFlip.com to give girls, ages six to 18, a positive experience learning self-defense.

“Now girls can train in their own comfortable environments. When fear-factors are removed, girls can focus on mastering techniques and gain confidence,” says Token. “And no more stinky gyms,” she added.

online self-defense for girls
The Great Flip introduces girls to a martial art called Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ). BJJ promotes the concept that a smaller, weaker person can defend them self against a bigger, stronger assailant using proper technique, leverage, and most notably, taking the fight to the ground.”Statistics show that most self-defense situations end on the ground, especially for girls,” Token explains. “No other marital art addresses the ground game like BJJ,” adds Token.Token leads the girls through a series of simple jiu-jitsu techniques addressing movement and safety from the ground and standing. She teaches effective escapes and attacks. The videos are less than three minutes and are meant to be watched, repeated and practiced until mastery. Many can be found on YouTube and Vimeo by searching “The Great Flip Self Defense for girls.”The Great Flip is a subscription-based website. Families with daughters, home-schoolers, American Heritage Girls, athletic directors, physical fitness educators, Directors of Christian Education, youth ministers and camp directors utilize The Great Flip to meet their fitness, faith and team-building goals.The Great Flip website also provides nutrition resources and faith-based motivation. Token is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu certified instructor and purple belt. She has spent twenty years inspiring young women to be tomorrow’s leaders in the nonprofit industry. She and her husband have two daughters who encouraged her to create The Great Flip.”No one has combined a martial art and a Christian worldview like The Great Flip,” says Token. Visit the website at www.thegreatflip.com.

Click 2 Ways to Join 

 

jiu-jitsu for self-defense

Why Girls Should Learn Jiu-jitsu for Self-Defense

/in /by

Why should girls learn jiu-jitsu for self-defense? I’m pretty sure (or at least I hope) we are in a place in our culture to already know girls are equally capable to participate in martial arts and learn basic self-defense skills. And like it or not, the necessity is real. Statistics reveal that girls are just as likely to be bullied by peers and more likely to be victimized into womanhood. Because we live in a broken world, girls must learn to defend themselves, therefore learning a martial art is a viable option. But why should a girl learn Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) for self-defense? And what additional benefits does self-defense training offer a girl?

Listen and Share the Podcast

Jiu-jitsu for self-defense

jiu-jitsu for self-defense

BJJ is designed for weaker, smaller opponents to dominate larger ones using technique rather than strength. My husband and I have two daughters. We discovered jiu-jitsu was the best option for me and our girls. Many traditional martial arts like Karate and Taekwondo have nice qualities but fall short in real-life application. Katas teach nice patterns of movements but do not address any kind of movement required when a girl hits the ground and must defend herself from the floor. In jiu-jitsu, the game is won on the ground. Jiu-jitsu includes techniques like closed guard, punch protection, arm bars, kimuras, triangles and chokes to name a few. It incorporates Judo which teaches simple take-downs and leveraging. If a girl can’t be stronger is a self-defense situation, then jiu-jitsu will make her smarter!

I like the mindfulness of jiu-jitsu. It teaches girls to assess the situation and act accordingly. In comparison, a popular women’s self defense is the force-driven tactics taught in Krav-Maga, where girls are trained to immediately go for the groin-kick or eye-gouge. Granted, there is a time and a place for exerting force on an opponent, but a knee-jerk reaction may make the situation worse, not better. And quite honestly, I don’t think I could successfully kick or strike someone hard and fast enough (even in their personal space) to deter a mad-man. Jiu-jitsu has taught me to assert myself with my voice and my strong body language, assess each situation and take appropriate action. I’d like to equip girls with the same skills using jiu-jitsu as the foundation. You can read my blog about three life skills for every girl to learn more.

If you struggle with personal “excuses” to begin training jiu-jitsu, read my blog post about the three obstacles I overcame in order to excel at training. Using “The Great Flip” online instructional videos will equip you to overcome three excuses including physical location, physical touch and physical fitness. At any time, click on “2 Ways to Join” and we can overcome these excuses together!

The value of learning self-defense is most likely more than enough to motivate you to step onto the mats right now and begin training, but I’ve discovered BJJ has so much more to offer than self-defense training. And if you gather your friends and train with me at The Great Flip you too will discover these benefits and probably more.

A girl will love her body for what it can do

jiu-jitsu for self-defense

Jiu-jitsu erases insecurities by showing girls the amazing things her body can do. When she steps onto the mat, she can leave behind the “image wars” she is battling. She will discover her body for its ingenuity and beauty. Every ounce of her body is beautifully designed to move. Simple jiu-jitsu techniques will allow her to use her body in powerful and amazing ways. Jiu-jitsu utilizes the strength of girls’ legs to control a stronger person and optimize her flexibility to escape a dicey situation. When she steps off the mat, she will begin to see herself for who she really is … “wonderfully made.” (See Psalm 139:13-14)

Jiu-jitsu gets you in shape

jiu-jitsu for self-defense

Instead of running on a treadmill and pumping weights, you can get fit in a small amount of time and space. I didn’t learn self-defense to lose weight, but while training, I lost twenty pounds and gained amazing muscle mass. My health is better than ever. And not only did I get in shape, but I learned a new life skill at the same time. Girls can be physically and mentally challenged every time she trains. And no, she doesn’t need to be in shape to start training. (That goes for you too, mom and dad) But with time and consistency, like any other sport, jiu-jitsu will produce core strength, flexibility and endurance. The Great Flip instructional videos are a great way to begin your fitness journey or supplement your current routine. If you are wondering what you will need to create a training space at home, read my blog and watch my video called “Let’s get Equipped.” 

Jiu-jitsu forms friendship

jiu-jitsu for self-defense

There’s nothing like wrestling, rolling and sparring with friends and family. Physical touch is healing to the body, mind and spirit in the context of healthy relationships. And Jiu-jitsu requires trust. Girls will need to hug, touch and roll around on the ground to learn. They will need to know that when they practice a technique they have a safe place to train, then trust no one will hurt them.

The combination of physical touch, trusting relationships and playful interaction create an environment for lasting friendships. Girls who train together becomes lasting friends who can rely on each other, encourage one another and have each other’s back for far more than self-defense skills.

Jiu-jitsu is a positive role model

Okay, I’ll just say it … My daughters think I’m cool… sometimes. I’m humbled to say this and slightly amazed. I hope they think I’m awesome because I’m their mom, but they have been my best cheerleaders and encouragers throughout my jiu-jitsu journey. They tell their friends about me. Crazy, right?! Girls who learn jiu-jitsu and value self-defense become role models for other girls. Try my instructional videos at The Great Flip and see if you and your girls walk a little taller and radiate a confidence that other girls desire. Click “2 Ways to Join.”

Jiu-jitsu is healthy living

self defense for girls

And one more thing, Jiu-jitsu is more than self-defense. It includes resources for living a healthy lifestyle. This aspect was a pleasant surprise. I could immediately experience the fitness and friend benefits, but as I got to know the people and the sport, I realized I was surrounded by people who cared about nutrition habits. Soon I was consuming less sugars and eating more protein and veggies. And drinking more water! Of course, the focus on nutrition caused me to be healthier and better at jiu-jitsu.

At The Great Flip, I have three pillars of content in my blog; Self Defense, Nutrition and Motivation. I believe these three pillars are intertwined in jiu-jitsu. It is my hope to share my journey and the journey of others who are experts in these areas. It is my hope these resources will bless you and make your self-defense training much more than self-defense training. Click on Blogs to discover free resources. And when you become a subscriber, I have additional content just for you!

Jiu-jitsu is sharing

Do you have a self-defense technique you’d like me to demonstrate in my next video? I have videos being produced right now ready to upload. I can’t wait to make more!

You can watch free videos on my YouTube channel at The Great Flip Self Defense or here’s a link to a video on my channel https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHhC__zMvBI&t=20s

jiu-jitsu for self-defense

I’d love to hear about your jiu-jitsu journey. Feel free to snap a picture or video of yourself doing the techniques. Then post it on Instagram with a shout-out hashtag #thegreatflip. Or send the media to me and I’ll post it on my page @thegreatflip.

I’d love for you to train with me and enjoy all the benefits of jiu-jitsu. It’s time to click on the “2 Ways to Join” button to get started. Feel free to send me a comment or ask a question through my Contact Form.

See you on the mat! – Coach Jody

see you on the mat

Let’s get equipped!

/in /by

I hope you are ready to press the “2 Ways to Join” button and begin self-defense training with me using my online instructional videos! The first 10 videos are uploaded and ready. Now, I’m waiting to see you on the mat! I cannot wait to introduce you to Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ). You will be amazed at how simple and empowering each technique is to learn. You will learn how to fall properly without injury. Protect yourself from punches, chokes, behind the back “bear hugs” and so much more! Let’s get equipped!

If you are wondering what kind of equipment you might need, I made a list of equipment you may want to consider before you train. Scroll down for the list. But first …

Check out my training space … and my dog!

Want to see the training space in my home? You’ll see the mats I decided to buy, and oh, yes, you’ll meet my dog Brandy, who tends to randomly show up in my videos!

Now, let’s make your equipment list:

You!

Duh. I cannot wait to see you on the mat! You will be so happy you are learning a new life skill!

A training buddy

Grab a family member and/or girlfriend. There are a few videos that can be done individually, but most of the instructional videos require a training partner to get the most value. Plus, training with family members and girlfriends is so much more fun! Go get your training buddy!

see you on the mat

Soft training space

Before you start training, I recommend setting up a designated training space that’s soft. Yoga mats, beach towels and even the carpet is better than the hard floor. The best option would be mats.  As you saw in the video, I bought the interlocking mats . These are reasonably priced and have multi-functions. The folding gymnastic mats are nice too. You can get fancy and buy jiu-jitsu/MMA mats, but that is not necessary. Bottom line, set-up a training space big enough for two people to train. I started with a 4×6 space and I just doubled it to have a little more room. I use the interlocking mats. I recommend the 8×12 space so two people can comfortably perform all the techniques.

I bought my mats on Amazon. The mats come in a 4×6 package for $20. So I spent$40. Share the price with your training buddies! Or, ask your school, church or fitness center if you can borrow mats! Be sure to keep them clean with disinfect wipes or spray before and after use.

Comfortable Clothes

You don’t have to buy fancy work-out clothes, but wear clothes you can comfortably move around in while standing and while moving on the ground.

see you on the mat

No shoes

I prefer to train without shoes. Typically, I’m on an exercise or yoga mat which needs to stay clean. I don’t wear shoes or socks. Plus, wearing socks can be slippery. Training in bare feet will keep your training space clean, strengthen your feet and encourage better balance.

Hair bands

see you on the mat

Yes girls, please pull your hair back into a pony tail or whatever you prefer. When your hair is up and out of your face, you can see better and train better. And when you work with a partner, you are less likely to accidentally pull each other’s hair.

A teachable spirit

I’ll be honest, when I started learning jiu-jitsu, I walked off the mat several times completely frustrated.

see you on the mat

The techniques look so simple and easy, yet I was unable to do them right away. The techniques take practice. Be patient with yourself. The online instructional videos are designed to be watched repeatedly. And you can watch and practice from the comfort of your own home and training space until you master the technique.

I remember going to a one-day self-defense workshop and learning a million cool techniques. But when I got home to share my new knowledge, everything was mixed up or had vanished from my brain. I had not practiced enough to create the muscle memory. BJJ techniques are simple but requires practice.  This is just like any other sport. You can’t expect to hit a three-pointer in basketball or pitch the perfect strike in softball without practice. Come to the mat with a good attitude, willingness to learn, discipline to practice … and you will succeed!

That’s it! Gather yourself, your positive attitude, friends and a soft place to train. See you on the mat!

Remember to tell me about your training space! Send me an email to jody@thegreatflip.com or follow me on Instagram @thegreatflip and use hashtag #thegreatflip in your posts!

Click on “2 Ways to Join” now!

Life Skills for Girls

Three Life Skills for Every Girl

/in /by

Self-defense is a life skill necessary for every girl. The Great Flip was developed to give girls a positive experience learning self-defense. And so far, no one is doing online self-defense video training specifically for girls. However, what you will find if you search the internet for “Women’s Self Defense” is a lot of home-made videos filled with the violent tactics and methods from Krav Maga-style training. In these videos, ladies are instructed to beat, kick and scratch and man dressed in the big marshmallow suit.  Don’t get me wrong, when a woman is attacked, she will need to exert every ounce of herself to escape and save her life. And even some good weapon training! I’m not opposed at all to Krav Maga, but a girl should understand three life skills before she steps onto any martial arts mat and onto the streets.

Listen to the Podcast 

I know I can’t possibly foresee every situation a girl might encounter, but it is my hope to train girls at a younger age to preempt dangerous situations. In my family, we suddenly realized we needed to give our daughters self-defense skills but they were already high school. The girls liked learning the skills and understood the value, but training in a co-ed environment was extremely uncomfortable for them. They had to overcome three fear-factors which I cover in another blog. Click here to read.

 

three life skills for every girlthree life skills for every girl

I like to refer to self-defense as a “life skill.” In this blog I want to share three life-skills that are foundational to self-defense: Assert. Assess. Act.

Applying these three words to a girl’s self-defense game will prepare her to be confident, aware, and sharp decision-makers.

Assert.

An assertive girl is not an aggressive girl. Did you get that? Assertive is not aggressive. Bullies are aggressive. Don’t be a bully. An assertive girl creates healthy boundaries. An assertive girl uses her voice. Her voice is her first line of self-defense. Without any physical altercation, her voice can begin to create boundaries. Her voice can most often deescalate a hyped-up person. When a bully or dangerous person appears threatening, a girls first response should be to use her voice and say NO or STOP.  An assertive girl can stay calm and be courageous while communicating her wishes. If her voice does not compel the person to respect her boundaries, then she can increase the sound of her voice. She can gain attention from others with her voice. Practice the CALL progression: (Calm voice. Assertive voice. Loud. Louder voice.).

An assertive girl practices strong body language. She stands tall and looks confident. Even if she feels small, scared or insecure, she can appear tall and strong with body language that says, “I’m assertive.” Remember the movie “We bought a Zoo”? I’ll always remember the line about courage.

“You know, sometimes all you need is twenty seconds of insane courage. Just literally twenty seconds of just embarrassing bravery. And I promise you, something great will come of it” – the character Benjamin Bee played by Matt Damon.

Now, the reference was about the kind of bravery required to create a positive relationship, but I have applied it many times with my daughters to push through times when they might be scared or insecure. I believe anyone can be brave for 20 seconds in any situation.

Bullies prey on people who appear weak.

Twenty seconds of assertive courage can save a life.

Stand in front of a mirror. Adjust your posture. Stand up tall with your shoulders back yet relaxed. Smile. You are beautifully and wonderfully made! Assert your beauty to the world. It’s contagious!

Assess.

Girls …  (and parents for that matter) put your phone down and lift your eyes up.

Seriously, look up. There’s a big brave world out there, don’t miss it. Be a role model to your children and restrict phone usage, especially in public places, walking to the car, etc. Girls need to learn to asses

s her surroundings. She should begin to assess the behavior of others around her. A great exercise in assessment is “people watching.” Find a café, restaurant or public space and simply watch people. Notice behavior and discuss with your daughter the different behaviors you observe. My husband and I were “people watching,” at an amusement park. Actually, we were watching the teenage boys watch the teenage girls. We had our daughters observe too. They got to see, first hand, how goofy the guys can be when the situation is playful and safe. But they also learned how to read a person’s intentions and behavior just by watching.

Girls who learn to assess a situation and “people watch” starting on the school playground will prepare them for bigger situations. Our girls will be wise and ready to address dark parking lots, spring break parties and traveling abroad.

Act.

When a girl is assertive and has assessed her surroundings, she can act appropriately and make smart decisions. Most of the time, her strong voice and confident body language is all she needs to defend herself. Adding self-defense to these life skills gives her the added ability to take action!

Online Self-Defense from The Great Flip

The Great Flip Self Defense – Assert + Assess + Action from The Great Flip on Vimeo.

The Great Flip Self Defense Videos

The first 10 videos in The Great Flip training series are meant to introduce girls to self-defense using the martial art called Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Your girl will learn how to fall if she is pushed (and not break her wrists or elbows). She will learn how to escape a choke, how to stand up safely, how to escape a bear hug from behind. Here’s the list of five stand-up techniques and five techniques from the ground: The Break Fall, The Technical Lift, The Break Fall + Technical Lift Drill, Wrist Escape, Choke Escape, The Hip Escape, The Bridge, Ground Protection Drill, Hip Bump + Arm Lock Drill and The Mount Escape.

And I post new videos each month for subscribers! These videos add variations and challenges to the first 10 videos.

Click 2 Ways to Join to get started!

What self-defense moves would you like your daughter to learn? Send me suggestions using the Contact form on the home page. Want to preview one of my videos? Here’s a link to the Wrist Escape technique:

The Great Flip Self Defense – Wrist Escape from The Great Flip on Vimeo.

All the videos are under three minutes. They are meant to be watched, learned, practiced and repeated until mastery. Just like in real jiu-jitsu live sparring, I teach while I demonstrate the technique while working with my training partner. You can do this in the comfort of your own home too! To learn more about what you will need to train at home click here to read about the simple set-up to train at home.

Subscribing to The Great Flip and learning self-defense with me is a wonderful gift for the girls in your life. Self-defense is a life skill necessary for every girl. So, grab a training buddy, a soft place to train and I’ll see you on the mat. Click on the “Two ways to Join” now to begin.

Do you know a home-school family, PE teacher, coach, youth group leader, scout leader looking for curriculum to use to teach self-defense? Pass this information along. See you on the mat!

Coach Jody