Self Defense Academy COS

06/19/2026

RESPECT. 👊
In the 753 Code, respect begins with something many people overlook: self-respect.
When we carry ourselves with integrity, discipline, and confidence, we create a foundation that allows us to respect others as well. True respect isn’t just saying “yes sir” or “yes ma’am”—it’s learning to be aware of the people around us, considering their feelings, and adjusting our actions to positively impact those we interact with.
At Self Defense Academy, respect is practiced every day. It’s seen when students help new classmates, when training partners look out for one another, and when children learn that strength and kindness go hand in hand.
Respect is a skill. Like any skill, it can be developed, strengthened, and carried into every area of life—at home, at school, at work, and in our community.
This is one of the many principles that makes our academy different. We don’t just teach self-defense—we help develop character through the values found in the VALENTE BROTHERS jiujitsu’ 753 Code.
Come experience the difference for yourself.

06/17/2026

Let’s look at a real-world example. In the video included below, a weightlifting youtube influencer, known for his size and power, steps onto the mats of a jiu-jitsu gym. You can see the confidence in his stride, as if his strength alone will be enough to get him through the fight. What happens next is nothing short of eye-opening. The influencer gets handled—not just by the seasoned instructor, but also by a female student who’s clearly smaller and lighter than he is.

How is this possible?

The answer lies in the principles of leverage, timing, and technique that are at the core of martial arts like Judo and Jiu-Jitsu (Jujutsu).

Maximum Efficiency, Minimum Effort...

https://www.selfdefenseacademycos.com/post/can-a-smaller-weaker-person-defeat-a-bigger-stronger-attacker

06/15/2026

With Father's day coming up this weekend i thought this was a good post of the week. In the ever-evolving landscape of personal development and mental health, few conversations hit as hard as the recent episode of the Huberman Lab podcast featuring neuroscientist Andrew Huberman and renowned family therapist Terry Real. Titled "Defining Healthy Masculinity & How to Build It," this in-depth discussion dives deep into the intricacies of male emotional health, relational dynamics, and the tools needed to foster stronger connections. Released on December 29, 2025, just before the new year, it's a timely blueprint for anyone looking to level up their relationships in 2026.

In the ever-evolving landscape of personal development and mental health, few conversations hit as hard as the recent episode of the Huberman Lab podcast featuring neuroscientist Andrew Huberman and renowned family therapist Terry Real. Titled "Defining Healthy Masculinity & How to Build It," this i...

06/11/2026

☀️ School’s out, but the learning doesn’t stop! 🥋
The backpacks may be packed away, but our kids are still showing up, learning, growing, and having a blast on the mats.
At Self Defense Academy, the mats stay busy all summer long! Whether it’s learning a new technique, helping a teammate improve, or having fun with friends, every class is an opportunity to grow.
Summer break is the perfect time to try something new—and we’re here all season long!

06/10/2026

In today’s complex social climate, the relationship between law enforcement and the communities they serve is constantly evolving. One powerful, but often overlooked, tool for strengthening that bond is martial arts—specifically, jiujitsu(Jujutsu). Imagine if police officers spent time on the mats, training in this art with their community members. The physical and psychological benefits of this kind of interaction could be transformative, fostering trust and mutual respect. But this is more than just an idea; it’s a model that has already yielded significant results, and jujutsu is at the heart of it.

A Case Study: Marietta, Georgia...

https://www.selfdefenseacademycos.com/post/building-trust-on-the-mat-why-police-officers-and-jiujitsu

06/08/2026

In a life-threatening situation, every second counts and every move matters. In the video below its clear to see when facing an attacker armed with a knife, hesitation or a wrong choice can lead to serious injury or worse. Recently, a video from Mexico City, shared by the Valente Brothers group, has captured attention for showing a defender using a side kick to neutralize a knife threat quickly and effectively. This real-world example highlights why the side kick is a critical strike in self-defense training and why distance is your best ally when danger strikes.

Why Distance Matters More Than Strength...

In a life-threatening situation, every second counts and every move matters. In the video below its clear to see when facing an attacker armed with a knife, hesitation or a wrong choice can lead to serious injury or worse. Recently, a video from Mexico City, shared by the Valente Brothers group, has...

06/03/2026

Small group. Big lessons.
When the group gets smaller, the details get bigger.
During a recent training session at Valente Brothers Jiu-Jitsu Headquarters in Miami, Professor Flip worked closely with other students, teachers, and academy owners breaking down every grip, angle, and movement. No shortcuts. No rushing. Just focused instruction, questions, corrections, and repetition.
It’s in moments like these that techniques go from something you know to something you truly understand.
The intensity is in paying attention to the details that make the difference when it matters most.
This personalized approach to training is one of the things that makes our academy special. Whether you’re brand new to martial arts or have years of experience, you’ll receive the guidance and attention needed to grow with confidence.
Ready to experience the difference for yourself? Join us on the mats and discover why so many students call Self Defense Academy their second home.
Train hard. Stay humble. Never stop learning

06/03/2026

In the world of martial arts, skill alone does not define a great teacher. Instead, it is the values they embody, both on and off the mat, that shape the learning environment and the growth of their students. One of the most essential values in the culture of jujutsu is *helpfulness*. This concept goes beyond mere instruction—it is about fostering an environment of mutual support, respect, and growth. For many, the embodiment of this value is seen in the legacy of Helio Gracie, one of the founding figures of Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

The Etymology and Origin of Helpfulness

https://www.selfdefenseacademycos.com/post/the-power-of-helpfulness-in-jiujitsu-a-guide-to-shaping-culture

06/01/2026

We’ve all seen the movies: the hero is confronted, and in a split second, they’ve already delivered a perfect counter-strike. But in the real world—specifically in the high-stress moments we train for here at Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs—reality looks a lot different.

Most people don’t immediately fight or flee. They freeze.

As Mike Tyson famously said: "Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth."

We’ve all seen the movies: the hero is confronted, and in a split second, they’ve already delivered a perfect counter-strike. But in the real world—specifically in the high-stress moments we train for here at Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs—reality looks a lot different. Most people do...

05/27/2026

People think self defense training is all serious faces and intense moments… but at Self Defense Academy, we believe learning works best when you’re having FUN too.
Yes, we train hard.
Yes, we build real-world skills.
But we also laugh, encourage each other, and enjoy the journey together.
Because confidence grows fastest in an environment where you feel supported, challenged, and excited to come back for more.
Come train with a team that knows how to work hard and have a good time on the mats!