Shallow Lake Jitsu

Back in July, I spent a month training Jiu Jitsu under Professor Abrie Kilian. The Kilian Academy in Shallow Lake was an incredible club. It was a beautiful facility hosting championship students with great attitudes. I learned a ton, and the training was great fun. Sadly, due to low enrollment and politics, the club is now closed.

Professor Kilian is a great martial artist, but more significantly, he is a great teacher, who can convey concepts simply and methodically, building through principals and tactics, and tailoring strategy on an individual’s strengths and limitations. He will be truly missed in the South Bruce Peninsula.

Almost daily in class, I was asked “did you make notes on yesterday’s class”. Professor Kilian harped on me even more than I harp on my own students! Well, the answer some days was “yes”! I do make notes! Here is a cheesy sample of my video journal. I provide this not to teach the technique, but as a sample of how quick and simple a video journal can be. Making these videos, or writing the techniques in a logbook transfer the learning from short term to long term memory. Reviewing the lessons afterwards brings it into permanence.