I train at the world famous Machado Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Torrance California.

   

The lobby of the academy and Bill, the manager, who is also an awesome Jiu Jitzu practitioner. None other than Danny Inosanto, the heir of the immortal Bruce Lee's martial arts legacy, who recently achieved a black belt at the academy, trains here as well.

   

I attend the 10 o'clock class on Tuesdays. Roger Machado, the instructor, is a 4th degree black belt. The first part of the class is devoted to developing techniques to subdue the opponent with the least possible effort, using leverage, balance and discipline. A Jiu Jitzu match is a chess game with each opponent reacting to the changing situation. Here, Roger demonstrates a technique know as a "sweep" to flip the opponent over.

The last part of each class is actual training. I have challenged Roger to a match. Obviously, I must be careful.

 

After a quick takedown, Roger applies painful (but legal) submission hold. Ouch!

 

Another takedown! Another heinous (but perfectly legal) submission!

 

A great workout!