Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is famous for teaching effective self-defense on the ground, but is it possible that BJJ can also improve your stand-up fighting skills? YES! At least it sure helped me! Of course, martial artists love arguing about one style being better than another, but the way I see it— Each style gives you…
Author: Ando Mierzwa
Ando Mierzwa is a martial arts teacher living in Los Angeles, CA.
#78: My First Fight [Video + Podcast]
Welcome to Episode #78 of the Fight for a Happy Life podcast, “My First Fight.” When I was seven years old, my babysitter set me up to fight another kid in the neighborhood. Surprise! Even though the situation was totally ridiculous, the lessons I learned from that fight have stayed with me to this day….
Jump Kick Tips for Self-Defense
Is there anything cooler than landing a jump kick? Many things, actually. But leaping through the air is still fun to do and great exercise. So, here are a couple tips to keep you flying high! If the video doesn’t play, try this link! Jump Kick Tips for Self-Defense TRANSCRIPT Howdy. Ando here from Happy…
#77: Paul Read Interview [Video + Podcast]
Welcome to Episode #77 of the Fight for a Happy Life podcast with special guest, Paul Read. If you don’t follow Paul’s work as a Tai Chi instructor, you should! Many people talk about expressing themselves through their martial arts training, but Paul is one of the few who actually does! I’ve been of a…
#76: Chris Hanson Interview [Video + Podcast]
Welcome to Episode #76 of the Fight for a Happy Life podcast with special guest, Chris Hanson. Chris Hanson is a school teacher, father, lifelong martial artist, founder of Karate Unity… and a really nice guy! As you’ll hear, Chris is on a mission to bring the martial arts community together by training with as…
#75: Talk to Your Body [Video + Podcast]
Welcome to Episode #75 of the Fight for a Happy Life podcast, “Talk to Your Body.” Question—how well do you know your body? If you’re like me, you probably think some parts are strong and healthy… but you label other parts as weak, stiff, or just plain “bad”. You gotta stop that! Whether it’s due…
Head Movement Drill for Self-Defense
If you practice self-defense techniques without moving your head, you’re asking for trouble, my friend! Here’s a simple head movement drill to help keep you safe! If the video doesn’t play, try this link! Head Movement Drill for Self-Defense TRANSCRIPT Howdy. Ando here from Happy Life Martial Arts. In my video, Don’t Be a Bobble…