Strength, flexibility, cardio, explosiveness… it’s all important. But when it comes to self-defense training, which attribute should be your top priority? To get the most out of your practice time in the martial arts, you might want to consider my opinion. If you agree, let me know! If you don’t, let me know that, too!…
Author: Ando Mierzwa
Ando Mierzwa is a martial arts teacher living in Los Angeles, CA.
The Most Important Stance (You Don’t Practice!) in Karate
In traditional martial arts, you will practice many different stances. But which stance is the most important? HINT: It’s probably the first one you ever learned! Whether you train in Karate, Taekwondo, or Kung Fu, here’s a tip that will put a spotlight on a crucial stance that you may be overlooking. You can either…
#108: The Hardest Part of Self-Defense [Video + Podcast]
Welcome to Episode #108 of the Fight for a Happy Life podcast, “The Hardest Part of Self-Defense.” I have some bad news–the hardest part of self-defense is something you can’t change or stop. What am I talking about? Knowing how far to go when defending yourself. Here’s the problem–bad guys have a plan. They know…
#107: The Art of Moving Furniture [Video + Podcast]
Welcome to Episode #107 of the Fight for a Happy Life podcast, “The Art of Moving Furniture.” I moved twice in the last year—first from L.A. to Raleigh and now to a new place 6 miles up the road. That means I have spent a ridiculous number of hours packing, lifting boxes, and hauling furniture….
#106: It’s Okay to Suck at Martial Arts [Video + Podcast]
Welcome to Episode #106 of the Fight for a Happy Life podcast, “It’s Okay to Suck at Martial Arts.” After almost two years of hiding out from Covid, I finally stepped outside and joined a BJJ school. Well, re-joined, actually. And guess what? I SUCK! Yup. I may only be two years older, but I’m…
#105: Waiting to Die [Video + Podcast]
Welcome to Episode #105 of the Fight for a Happy Life podcast, “Waiting to Die.” My wife and I once found ourselves in a scary situation. Fortunately, we lived to tell the tale… so I’m going to tell it! Of course, you don’t need to survive a scary situation to remind you that life is…
Practice the Jab for Self-Defense and Sparring
Are some martial arts techniques more important than others? Yes! And I’d say the jab is number one! Whether you practice the martial arts for self-defense, fitness, or fun, in this video, I’ll tell you why I decided to practice this basic punch in every training session… and why you should, too. You can either…