Introduction

With the rise of digital learning, martial arts enthusiasts have unprecedented access to a wealth of instructional videos. Nowadays, we can access videos through online platforms, streaming videos and DVDs. I have a huge collection of videos dating back to the 1980s. Over time, I have benefited tremendously from watching Filipino Martial Arts videos. I confess to watching 5-second clips more than 20 times! In addition, I have quite a few private lesson videos that I have compiled over the past few years.

But to truly benefit from these resources, one must approach them with the right strategies. Here are the top ten tips for maximizing martial arts instructional video sessions.

1. Set Clear Objectives

Before hitting the play button, define what you want to accomplish. Whether mastering a specific technique or understanding a broader concept, setting objectives will guide your focus and measure your progress. For example, you want to work on passing the guard in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Videos on this topic would surely help you on your path to BJJ mastery.

If you are not able to view this video, go here.

Side note about Jean Jacques Machado: I’ve long admired him from afar for his mastery of BJJ despite being born with a congenital disorder called Amniotic Band Syndrome which affected his left hand, leaving him without any fingers. I find his video on passing the guard to be phenomenal.

2. Choose Quality Over Quantity

Don’t get overwhelmed by the sheer volume of videos available. Look for content from reputable instructors with solid credentials. High-quality videos are more likely to offer accurate and effective instruction. Start with folks with a great teaching reputation. Professor Chuck Gauss and Professor Ken Smith have produced high-quality videos highlighting their phenomenal teaching ability. Check them out if you can!

3. Create A Distraction-Free Environment

Find a quiet space where you can watch the videos without interruptions. Distractions can lead to missed details that might be crucial for your understanding and execution of the techniques.

4. Watch, Pause, and Practice

In the first go around, I like to watch the entire video to get a feel for the content of the video. After the initial viewing, I usually pause frequently to study the moves. Rewind and rewatch. To retain the technique, find a partner to practice with. What’s the benefit of watching videos if you don’t practice?

5. Use Slow Motion and Rewind

Many platforms offer the ability to slow down or replay parts of the video. Use these features to closely study the intricacies of each move, especially for quick or complex techniques. I like to shut off the sound and watch a sequence in slow motion several times.

Football coaches are notorious for watching and rewinding a play over and over while watching game film of an opponent. I remember watching Coach Rudy Sharkey critiquing our play while going over game film during my high school years. If we effed up on a play, he sure let us know in front of the entire team! How I watch martial arts videos has been greatly influenced by Coach Sharkey.

If you are not able to view this video, go here.

6. Take Notes

Different strokes for different folks on this point.

I like to take notes on my laptop. I often take screenshots of different stages of a technique and type brief descriptions next to them. Written notes alone don’t do it for me. I need visual cues, hence the reason for the liberal use of screenshots in my notes.

Do what works for you.

7. Be Critical and Analytical

Not everything you see may be applicable or effective for you. Be critical about what you learn and analyze how it fits into your style and level of expertise.

In other words, choose the appropriate video for your age and skill level.

8. Implement A Regular Routine

Consistency is key to improvement. Establish a routine for watching instructional videos and integrate them into your regular training schedule.

Speaking for myself, I usually watch my videos for only 15 to 30 minutes daily.

Why?

First, I’m not competing and not studying film of any opponent.

Secondly, I study to optimize my techniques and broaden my knowledge base. This means that I prefer to absorb each technique presented in a video. This may sound cumbersome and time-consuming. But this method has worked for me quite well.

Again, do what works for you.

9. Use Video for Self-Evaluation

I think the most valuable use of video is one of you while training. You may not like what you see of yourself. But, holy cow, you will learn a lot about your technical shortcomings. I remember watching a video of one of my kata during my Notre Dame days and saying to myself, “What the effing hell was that?”

Record your own practice and compare it to what you see in the instructional videos. This comparison can be an excellent way to spot mistakes and correct your form.

If you are not able to view this video, go here.

Yup, that’s me on the right side of the screen, along with my friend Jim Hoff, trying to keep up with our phenomenal instructor, G. Rogers Cooper, in April 1987. I wore out the VHS tape watching this sequence repeatedly during the summer of 1987.

Believe it or not, this 46-second sequence substantially informed my martial arts training for the next few years.

Take advantage of any video of you and study it closely. You will reap huge benefits, guaranteed.

10. Seek Feedback

If possible, seek feedback from a training partner or instructor. They can provide practical advice and corrections you might not notice alone.

Conclusion

Watching martial arts instructional videos can be incredibly beneficial if done correctly. These tips can optimize your learning experience, improve your skills, and deepen your understanding of your art.

Speaking of videos, I will publish my first video blog on Monday, February 26th. To date, I have shot four videos, which will be published weekly. The first four videos will be available to the public and, thereafter, will be available to blog subscribers.

Stay tuned!

Suggested Additional Articles

• Learning with Learning Disabilities: My Top Five Tips
• 6 Reasons To Go Slow
• Angry and Crazy Driver
• “It Has To Be Done This Way!”
• Going Into The Martial Arts Hibernation Season

Before you go elsewhere on the Internet, please consider buying me a beer or a cup of coffee!

I need your help defraying the increasing expenses of the blog/website. You’ll be recognized for your contribution. 😉

A huge thank you in advance!