top of page


BunBuRyoDo - The Way is in the Combination of the Scholar and the Warrior. The Jiu Jitsu way.
The Kanji characters "文武両道" (BunBuRyoDO) proudly displayed below the grandmasters at the Valente Brothers headquarters in Miami carry a profound meaning that resonates deeply within the world of Jiu Jitsu (Jujutsu). One Translation is as "The Way is in the combination of the Scholar & Warrior. Also, The Way is in Both Pen and Sword" & "The Harmony of Intellectual and Martial Arts,"
Self Defense Academy COS
Jun 1, 20254 min read


Why Jiu-Jitsu Builds Better Leaders: A Foundation for Leadership Excellence
In today’s fast-paced and unpredictable world, leadership demands more than just charisma or strategic thinking. True leaders embody resilience, humility, adaptability, and the ability to inspire others under pressure.
Self Defense Academy COS
May 25, 20256 min read


May the 4th Be With You: Unleashing Your Inner Jedi at Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs
Why did Darth Vader become a jiu-jitsu master? Because he’s the ultimate choking hazard! With that Force choke in his arsenal, you’d think he’d be untouchable on the mats. But let’s be real—Vader’s heavy breathing would probably give away his next move faster than a TIE fighter in a dogfight. Here on Earth, specifically at Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs, we’re all about channeling the light side of the Force to empower you with self-defense skills that don’t involve tu
Self Defense Academy COS
May 4, 20254 min read


The Distinction Between Doing and Being: A Journey of Identity and Empowerment
What does it mean to be something versus simply doing something? This question isn’t just philosophical—it’s a lens through which we can understand our passions, our growth, and our purpose.
Self Defense Academy COS
Apr 27, 20255 min read


Success is Something You Attract: The Jiu Jitsu Path to Empowerment
Bowing is a great part about Martial Arts. Imagine standing at the edge of a path, the world buzzing around you—chaotic, unpredictable,...
Self Defense Academy COS
Apr 21, 20256 min read


The Genius of Simplicity: Helio Gracie’s Philosophy and Its Legacy at Self Defense Academy COS
When we think of martial arts, images of complex techniques, flashy moves, and high-flying acrobatics often come to mind....
Self Defense Academy COS
Apr 14, 20255 min read


Finding Strength in Small Steps: Lessons from Dr. Becky Kennedy and Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs
Recently, I had the pleasure of tuning into the Huberman Lab podcast featuring Dr. Andrew Huberman and Dr. Becky Kennedy...
Self Defense Academy COS
Apr 6, 20255 min read


The Power of Rectitude: Why Short Cuts Will Cut You Short
Kegan earning a stripe! Have you ever found yourself at a crossroads, tempted to take the easy way out? Maybe it’s skipping a workout,...
Self Defense Academy COS
Mar 30, 20254 min read


The Power of Perspective: Transforming Life’s Challenges into Opportunities for Growth Through Jiu-Jitsu
Life is a wild ride—a series of twists, turns, and unexpected detours that can leave us breathless, bewildered, or even broken if we let...
Self Defense Academy COS
Mar 23, 20254 min read


What Are We "Really" Defending When We Talk About Self-Defense?
Let’s start with a question: What comes to mind when you hear the term *self-defense*? What is it exactly that you're defending?
Self Defense Academy COS
Mar 9, 20255 min read


Why a Billion-Dollar Exit Won’t Make You Happy (And What Will)
After listening to an episode of the Radical Personal Finance Podcast it made me think, have you ever wondered why some people seem...
Self Defense Academy COS
Mar 2, 202511 min read


# The 6 Rules of Ground Fighting: Mastering the Art of Self-Defense
Have you ever felt vulnerable in a physical confrontation? You're not alone. Many people feel unprepared when it comes to self-defense....
Self Defense Academy COS
Feb 16, 20253 min read


Mastering the 5 elements of Self Defense Jiu-jitsu
At Self Defense Academy COS, we believe in empowering individuals through the art of self-defense Jiu-Jitsu (Jujutsu). Our approach which...
Self Defense Academy COS
Feb 9, 20253 min read


Empowering You: Why Self Defense Academy COS Chooses The Valente Brothers Method
At Self Defense Academy COS, we're not just teaching martial arts – we're empowering lives through the Valente Brothers Method of Jujutsu.
Self Defense Academy COS
Jan 12, 20253 min read


Is the New You Worth Defending?
As the holidays wrap up and the New Year begins, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the past year and setting goals for the one ahead..
Self Defense Academy COS
Dec 29, 20243 min read


If You Give Us Time, We Will Gift You Jiu jitsu
Professor Pedro Valente's words, "If you give us time, we will give you Jujutsu," encapsulate the essence of what we teach at...
Self Defense Academy COS
Dec 22, 20243 min read


Unlocking Mastery at the Valente Brothers' Super Seminar on T-Shirt Chokes
In the world of jujutsu, there are rare moments that transcend the physical art, diving deep into the essence of learning, connection...
Self Defense Academy COS
Dec 15, 20242 min read


Simplifying Up vs. Dumbing Down: The Art of Effective Teaching at Self Defense Academy COS
At Self Defense Academy COS, we believe everyone has the capacity to learn, grow, and excel. Our teaching philosophy, rooted in the...
Self Defense Academy COS
Dec 8, 20244 min read


Safety vs. Comfort: How Jiu-Jitsu Teaches the Value in Discomfort
When we think about safety, our minds often associate it with comfort—a cozy home, a familiar routine, or the absence of challenges.
Self Defense Academy COS
Nov 24, 20243 min read


Discovering Your Why: Vitality Through Purpose on the Mats
In the rush of everyday life, it’s easy to get caught up in the “how” and “what” of things. We focus on "how" we’re going to reach our...
Self Defense Academy COS
Oct 27, 20243 min read
bottom of page
