Blog

BJJ black belt Chewjitsu tackles the gi vs. no-gi belt debate. He explains why a grappler's rank reflects universal skills, not just proficiency in one uniform, and makes the case that a brown belt is always a brown belt.

Discover Islam Makhachev's key training principles for MMA success. This article explores his work ethic, the importance of rest and nutrition, and the value of adapting during sparring.

Which reigns supreme in an MMA ground fight: wrestling's control or Jiu-Jitsu's submissions? This article dives into the debate, featuring insights and pivotal UFC moments that shaped the answer.

This article delves into John Danaher's explanation of what truly separates a fighter from a martial artist. Discover how their motivations differ – one externally driven by objectives, the other internally motivated by the art itself and the constant refinement of skill.

Martial artist and YouTuber Sensei Seth investigates whether striking or grappling is the tougher discipline. Through firsthand training and interviews, he explores difficulty of learning, injury risks, cardio demands, and mental toughness in Muay Thai vs jiu-jitsu. 

Should you train jiu-jitsu in a gi or go no-gi? This article explores the key differences, traditions, and practical benefits of both styles. Learn why some fighters stick to the gi for technique and tournament preparation, while others prefer no-gi for MMA or self-defense. Discover expert insights from top coaches to help you choose the right training approach.

This article explores which martial arts are most effective for cross-training in Muay Thai. Based on a ranking by Alby Tam of Combat Culture, it evaluates 21 styles—including boxing, judo, sambo, and taekwondo—to determine which ones can enhance your Muay Thai skills and which are best avoided.

Thinking about cross-training to level up your Muay Thai? In this first part of a two-part breakdown, Alby Tam of Combat Culture ranks martial arts like Shotokan, Kyokushin, BJJ, K1 kickboxing, Wing Chun, and more—from most to least effective for Muay Thai fighters. Learn what styles actually boost your game.

Mastery in mixed martial arts isn’t just about showing up — it’s about consistent training paired with focused ambition. This article breaks down the long road to earning a black belt, why consistency alone won’t make you great, and how setting specific goals in every session can elevate your game to championship levels.

Improving in martial arts takes time, but training smarter can speed up the process. This article explores effective ways to maximize your progress, from keeping sparring playful to refining your fundamentals. Learn how to avoid common training mistakes and build a strong foundation for long-term success.

Carlson Gracie transformed Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu by breaking from tradition and fostering a competitive training culture. Unlike the formal methods of earlier Gracies, Carlson introduced group classes, live sparring, and innovative techniques that laid the groundwork for modern MMA. This article explores why his impact on BJJ remains unmatched and why he is considered the most influential Gracie fighter.

Achieving realistic goals is the key to long-term success in any area of life. This article explores how to set achievable milestones that challenge you without overwhelming you. By breaking big aspirations into smaller steps—whether in fitness, career, or personal growth—you create a clear path to progress. Using examples from running, martial arts, and skill-building, we show how consistency, strategy, and perseverance lead to meaningful accomplishments.

Every martial artist has a unique temperament that shapes their fighting style. Some excel with patience, wearing down opponents and waiting for the perfect moment, while others thrive on aggression, overwhelming their rivals with relentless pressure. This article explores how personality influences jiu-jitsu strategy, how legends like Royce and Renzo Gracie embody different approaches, and how you can refine your own style for maximum effectiveness.

Rules are the foundation of martial arts, guiding beginners to develop strong fundamentals. However, true mastery lies in understanding when to break them. This article explores key martial arts rules—keeping your hands up, avoiding head movement, and protecting your back—and how experienced fighters strategically bend them to gain an edge. Learn why rules exist, when to follow them, and when breaking them can make you a more effective martial artist.

Success in MMA is about mastering unpredictability. Drawing parallels between jiu-jitsu and the art of throwing a curveball, this article explores how technique, speed, and strategy give fighters an edge. Learn from Firas Zahabi’s insights on developing unique styles and why surprise is key to dominating in combat sports.