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The Power of Rectitude: Why Short Cuts Will Cut You Short

Updated: Apr 4


Kegan from our Youth program testing for his stripe.
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, bending the truth to avoid conflict, or rushing through a task just to check it off your list. We’ve all been there—searching for a shortcut to save time or effort. But here’s the kicker: short cuts will cut you short. That saying isn’t just a catchy phrase; it’s a timeless truth that echoes through every choice we make. And at Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs, it’s a truth we live by through the first and most fundamental virtue of our philosophy—the 753 Code: Rectitude.


What’s Rectitude, Anyway?

Imagine this: You’re facing a tough decision. The pressure’s on, and the quick fix is whispering your name. But deep down, you know what’s right. That inner compass guiding you toward integrity, honor, and moral courage? That’s rectitude. It’s not just about doing the “right thing” when it’s easy—it’s about standing tall when it’s hard. It’s the backbone of who you are, both on the mat and in life.


At Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs, rectitude isn’t some dusty word we pulled from a dictionary. It’s at the core of the 753 Code—a philosophy rooted in the Valente Brothers’ jujutsu method/tradition. Seven virtues, five values, three pillars of mind-body alignment. And rectitude? It’s number one for a reason. It’s the foundation that everything else builds on. Without it, the rest crumbles.


Getting our Jiu jitsu drills in
Drilling to not fall for the trap!

Let’s get real for a second. Why do shortcuts feel so tempting? They promise speed, ease, instant gratification. But what’s the cost? Picture someone training in self-defense who skips the fundamentals—stance, breathing, focus—just to throw a flashy punch. Sure, it might look cool for a minute… until they’re flat on their back in a real situation. Short cuts don’t just cut corners; they cut your potential, your growth, your strength.


Think about your own life. Ever taken a shortcut that backfired? Maybe you avoided a tough conversation, only to watch the problem fester. Or maybe you rushed a project and had to redo it later. That’s the trap: what seems like a gain today robs you tomorrow. At SDA COS, we see it all the time—people come in thinking self-defense is just about quick moves, but they leave realizing it’s about building something deeper. Something lasting.


Kanji Character for rectitude
Rectitude Kanji

Rectitude in Action: The SDA COS Way

Here’s where it gets exciting. At Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs, rectitude isn’t just a concept we talk about—it’s a way of life we practice. When you step onto our mats, you’re not just learning jujutsu techniques tailored for real-world safety; you’re stepping into a mindset. We don’t cut corners in our training because we know that true empowerment comes from doing the work. From showing up. From choosing the harder, truer path.


Our 753 Code starts with rectitude because it’s the spark that ignites everything else—courage, respect, honor. It’s why we don’t rush you through a “quick fix” class. Instead, we guide you, step by step, to uncover your inner strength. Ever wondered what it feels like to stand taller, not just physically but mentally & emotinally? To know you’ve got the grit to face anything life throws at you? That’s what rectitude unlocks.


Why Should You Care?

Let’s flip this around for a moment. What’s holding you back from being the best version of yourself? Is it fear? Doubt? The lure of the easy way out? Now imagine letting that go. Imagine choosing rectitude—choosing to show up fully, to train with purpose, to live with integrity—and watching how it transforms you.


Here’s the thing: you don’t have to take our word for it. You can feel it for yourself. How? By stepping through our doors for a complimentary trial class. No pressure, no gimmicks—just a chance to experience the power of Jujutsu and the 753 Code firsthand. What’s it like to train with a team that puts rectitude first? To learn skills that don’t just protect your body but strengthen your character? There’s only one way to find out.


The Challenge: Embrace The Journey

Large inside Hook from a bear hug
Prancing with Rectitude

Here’s our question to you: What’s one shortcut you’ve been tempted to take lately? And what might happen if, instead, you chose rectitude—the path of effort, honesty, and growth? At Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs, we’re not here to sell you a quick fix. We’re here to help you build something real. Something that lasts.


Ready to see what you’re capable of? Drop by we're located in Downtown Colorado Springs in the Lower Level of the Co-Working Space "The Next Us". Let’s explore the strength that’s already inside you— Curious? Good. That’s the first step. Take it with us. YOU Are Worth Defending!


Rectitude!

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Thought of the Moment - "The only guide to a man's conscience, the only shield to his memory is the rectitude and sincerity of his actions." ~ Winston Churchill



Self Defense Jiu Jitsu Classes in Downtown Colorado Springs
Self Defense Jiu Jitsu in Colorado Springs

The Power of Rectitude: Why Short Cuts Will Cut You Short

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