Exploring the Art of Base: Review of The Valente Brothers Shokunin Conference

Self Defense Academy COS
Jun 15
6 min read

Updated: 13 minutes ago

I just had the incredible opportunity to travel from Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs to the Valente Brothers Headquarters in Miami. There, I attended an intensive three-day seminar that delved deep into the heart of Jujutsu. As the head instructor at our academy, I am passionate about the transformative power of the Valente Brothers Method. This experience elevated my understanding to new heights.

The seminar focused on the intricate details of Base—a foundational principle in Jujutsu and its many dimensions. We also explored critical techniques for handling active shooter scenarios, including takedowns and weapon disarms. This reinforced the practical, life-saving applications of this art. Here’s a reflection on this profound journey and an invitation for you to discover Jujutsu for yourself at Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs.

The Foundation of Base: Shizentai and Jigotai

In Jujutsu, "Base" refers to the grounded, balanced stance that serves as the cornerstone of all movement and technique. The Valente Brothers Method, rooted in the teachings of Grandmasters Helio Gracie and Dr. Pedro Valente Sr., emphasizes that a strong base is not just a physical posture, but a way of being. The seminar began with an in-depth exploration of two fundamental stances: Shizentai (自然体) and Jigotai (自護体).

Shizentai (Natural Posture)

Translating to "natural body," Shizentai is a relaxed, upright stance. Feet are shoulder-width apart, knees are slightly bent, and weight is distributed evenly. It embodies readiness without tension. This allows for fluid movement in any direction. In Shizentai, you’re poised yet unassuming—like a calm lake rippling into action at a moment’s notice. Professor Pedro provided a detailed breakdown emphasizing that Shizentai is about efficiency. It conserves energy while maintaining the ability to respond instantly.

Jigotai (Defensive Posture)

Meaning "self-protective body," Jigotai is a lower, more grounded stance. It features a wider base and a slight lean, designed for stability. This makes it harder for an opponent to push you off balance. In Jigotai, our center of gravity is lowered, and our bodies angle to protect vital areas, preparing us to absorb or redirect force. This stance is like a rooted tree—unyielding yet flexible in the storm.

We took it to the mats through guided drills to internalize these stances. It became clear that Base is the foundation upon which all Jujutsu techniques are built. Without a solid base, even the most advanced techniques falter. As Professor Pedro has said, “Advanced Jujutsu is not in the advanced techniques, but rather in the advanced application of the basic techniques.” This philosophy resonated deeply, reminding us that mastery lies in perfecting the fundamentals.

Beyond the Physical: The Mental and Emotional Base

Drilling what we learn — Drilling with my partner Jason

My thoughts on how Base ripples through more than just physicality are profound. Beyond the physical mechanics of Shizentai and Jigotai are the philosophical underpinnings of Base. In Jujutsu, a strong base is not just about how you stand; it’s about how you exist in the world. The Valente Brothers Method reminds us that true martial artists cultivate a mental and emotional base that mirrors the physical one: grounded, balanced, and resilient.

The Mental Base

Mentally, a strong base means maintaining clarity and focus under pressure. In chaotic situations, whether a physical altercation or a high-stress moment in life, your ability to stay calm and make sound decisions is paramount. Situational awareness and mental discipline draw parallels between the poised readiness of Shizentai and the calm mind needed to navigate life’s challenges. Jujutsu serves as a metaphor for life: just as you adjust your stance to counter an opponent’s force, you adapt your mindset to overcome obstacles.

The Emotional Base

Emotionally, a strong base is about resilience and self-belief. The Valente Brothers Method, encapsulated in their 753 Code, emphasizes empowerment through education and community. Jujutsu fosters confidence and self-reliance, not just through physical skills, but through the knowledge that you can protect yourself and others. This emotional grounding is akin to Jigotai—a protective stance that shields your spirit from doubt and fear, allowing you to face adversity with courage.

This philosophical perspective has transformed my understanding of Jujutsu. It’s not just a martial art; it’s a way of cultivating a balanced, empowered life. I have begun to see Base as a universal principle: to stand firm in your body, mind, and heart is to live with purpose and strength.

Active Shooter Scenarios: Practical Applications

One of the most intense and practical components of the seminar was the training on active shooter scenarios. In today’s world, the unfortunate reality of such threats makes this knowledge invaluable. The Valente Brothers Method approaches these situations with the same emphasis on simplicity, efficiency, and leverage that defines their Jujutsu philosophy.

Strong Base is critical in chaotic encounters. It provides the stability needed to execute life-saving techniques.

Takedown from Behind

One key technique we practiced was a takedown from behind, which applies to both a single and dual person takedown. Professors Jouaquim & Gui emphasized that stealth and speed are crucial in an active shooter scenario. Using Jigotai as a foundation, we learned to approach an assailant from behind. Staying low and stable was essential to avoid detection. The takedown involved:

Positioning: Move silently into the assailant’s blind spot, maintaining a low Jigotai stance to stay balanced and ready.
Control: Secure the assailant’s legs and use your shoulder as leverage to disrupt their balance.
Execution: Drive forward with controlled force, bringing the assailant to the ground while maintaining dominance.

We practiced coordinating movements with a partner, using synchronized actions to neutralize the threat. The key was maintaining a strong Base to avoid being overpowered, even in chaos.

Firearm Disarmament: Rifle and Gun Removal

The seminar also covered techniques for disarming an assailant wielding a rifle or handgun. These scenarios were practiced with utmost care, emphasizing safety and precision. The Valente Brothers stressed that disarming a firearm requires a combination of Shizentai’s fluidity and Jigotai’s stability. Key steps included:

Neutralizing the Threat: Use quick, controlled movements to redirect the barrel away from yourself and others, usually by grabbing the weapon and twisting it while stepping to the side.
Leveraging Base: Maintain a strong Jigotai stance to anchor yourself as you apply force to wrestle the weapon from the assailant’s grip.
Securing the Weapon: Once the firearm is removed, transition to a control hold or takedown to neutralize the assailant completely.

We practiced these techniques in simulated environments, with instructors creating scenarios that mimicked the unpredictability of real-life active shooter situations. The emphasis on Base was evident throughout—without a stable foundation, the techniques would collapse under pressure.

The Valente Brothers Experience: A Community of Empowerment

Always a pleasure to be in a room with so many great people — Belt Promotion Ceremony

The seminar was about more than learning techniques; it was a celebration of the Valente Brothers community, dedicated to empowerment and growth. The Valente Brothers Headquarters exudes courage and respect, reflecting their philosophy that Jujutsu is about building connections as much as building skills. Training alongside practitioners from around the world, I felt the strength of this community and the shared commitment to the 753 Code—a philosophy of discipline, resilience, and empowerment.

The Valente Brothers carry a deeply rooted legacy from Grandmasters Helio Gracie and Dr. Pedro Valente Sr. Their ability to break down complex techniques into accessible, practical steps makes the experience welcoming for practitioners of all levels. Whether we were refining our Shizentai stance or practicing high-stakes disarms, their clear, encouraging guidance left a profound impact.

Join Us at Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs

This seminar reaffirmed my pride in being part of Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs, a Valente Brothers Method Study Group. Our mission is to inspire and empower our students with the same principles and techniques I experienced at the headquarters. Whether you’re a beginner seeking to build confidence or an experienced martial artist wanting to deepen your practice, we have a place for you.

At Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs, we offer classes for all ages and skill levels, from youth to adults, tailored to your abilities. Our instructor is trained in the Valente Brothers Method and will guide you through the fundamentals of Shizentai and Jigotai. This help you build a strong physical, mental, and emotional base. You’ll learn practical self-defense skills, including techniques for real-world scenarios while cultivating discipline, resilience, and community.

Ready to discover your inner courage? Join us for a complimentary trial class at Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs, located in the heart of Downtown Colorado Springs. Come experience the transformative power of Jujutsu and start your journey to empowerment. YOU Are Worth Defending!

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