March 2025 | Episode #11
Only in Omaha can we go from sub-zero temps to 60 degrees in a matter of days. One week, we’re shoveling snow and defrosting windshields; the next, we’re debating whether it’s too soon for to open up the bay doors (we totally did). But just like the weather, LŌKAHI is heating up, and February has already been a month of big moves—including the launch of our Youth Jiu-Jitsu program and our new Takedown Fundamentals class! From little grapplers hitting the mats for the first time to older grapplers doing buddy carries again, there’s something for everyone.
New Beginnings - Youth Jiu-Jitsu
Our Collective just got a little more energetic with the official launch of our Youth Jiu-Jitsu program! From the very first class, it was clear that these young grapplers weren’t just here to burn energy; they were here to learn, grow, and have fun while doing it. And while pin-escapes, takedowns, and submissions are important—it’s about developing focus, discipline, and problem-solving skills in a way that feels like play. In every class, these kids are learning to push through challenges, listen with intent, and build the confidence that will serve them on and off the mats.
5 Reasons Jiu-Jitsu Is Different from Anything Else
Some people pick up hobbies. Others play sports. But Jiu-Jitsu? It’s something else entirely. Few things challenge you in the multitude of ways that Jiu-Jitsu can! forging not just a new skill, but a new mindset . Here’s why Jiu-Jitsu stands apart:
1. Mushin: Pure Presence
As individuals with busy lives, it can be almost impossible to tune out the distractions. That conversation with your boss, the kids’ PTC tomorrow afternoon, or the grocery delivery you forgot to put in… there’s a lot going on! But because of both the physical and mental demands of Jiu-Jitsu, practitioners often enter into a state of ‘forced meditation’, says Coach Matt Hansen. “There’s no room for anything else.” Similar to Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi’s concept of ‘Flow’, Mushin is what martial artists and Zen Buddhists call this state in which you are purely present with the task at hand.
2. You Can’t Fake Progress
There are no shortcuts, no participation trophies, and no way to “look” good without actually being good. Either your technique works, or it doesn’t. Jiu-Jitsu forces you to put in the work, adapt, and grow—because the mats don’t lie. “Even a student who has only been training for 6 months will notice a big difference,” said Coach Connor Gillen. “Their situational awareness, body mechanics, and their confidence in dealing with difficult situations will surprise them, especially against an untrained opponent.”
3. It’s a Lifelong Pursuit
How many 50-year olds do you know playing tackle football? Unlike many sports that have an expiration date, Jiu-Jitsu evolves with you. As your body changes, so does your game. Whether you’re young and limber or the joints don’t quite move like they used to, there’s always something new to learn, refine, or master. (Fun fact: Coach Matt is going to be 50 next month! He doesn’t look a day over 65, so make sure to sing him a song.)
4. It’s Real-World Self-Defense
Jiu-Jitsu isn’t about flashy moves—it’s about control, both in yourself and of your opponent. Eventually you’ll be paired with and pinned down by someone much larger than you. Jiu-Jitsu teaches us to think through these challenges, to keep ourselves safe, and to ultimately escape or counter. Whether it’s our Foundations lessons on distance management or the Back-attack part of our curriculum we’re moving to next week, Jiu-Jitsu is a way to neutralize bigger, stronger opponents using leverage, awareness, and technique. And while we hope you will never have to use any of your training beyond the mats, it’s always better to have these skills and not use them.
5. Grit & Character-Building
Few things test your ego like getting submitted by someone smaller than you or smashed by someone bigger/better than you - trust me, we’ve all been there... Jiu-Jitsu humbles you, pushes you past your limits, and develops a mindset that carries over into every aspect of life. In Angela Duckworth’s book on Grit: The Power of Passion and Perserverance, she makes the statement that Grit is absolutely integral to having both success and a sense of self-worth. “Can Grit be learned?” Duckworth acknowledges that while some people may have a higher natural baseline than others, Grit is something that can absolutely be developed under the right circumstances.
Jiu-Jitsu isn’t just a sport. It’s a journey—one that shapes the way you think, move, and approach challenges. And once you start, there’s no going back.
Wanna know our process to developing GRIT?
“Outstanding gym! The owners were intentional about everything in the gym, and it shows. Having trained martial arts at several gyms, this experience was second to none.
Experience: The environment is incredibly welcoming. From high level black belts to new students everyone is there to learn, improve, and help the other members. Classes cover a wide range of material from fundamental tactics to advanced techniques, and Mr. J’s leg lock class.
Teaching: The instructors are all experienced, knowledgeable, and skilled at breaking down techniques at all levels. Lessons include demonstration, drilling, and some live situational rolling.
Gym: Everything is well maintained and clean. The locker rooms are spacious and have showers. There’s also a full gym with equipment for a wide variety of training.
Overall: This gym covers everything. The only thing better than the great facilities and instruction is the people that run the facility and it’s members.
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[NEW CLASS] Takedown Fundamentals
Do you suffer from guardpulleritis? Our new Takedown Fundamentals class might be just what you’re looking for.
Combining a fun mix of wrestling and Judo, students will quickly see noticeable progress in their understanding of the stand-up game, no matter their background or level of athleticism. There’s few things more satisfying than a perfectly-timed Sasae, but watching Youtube videos alone won’t give you the muscle memory you need. Make Tuesday’s Takedown Fundamentals a part of your training schedule!
Tuesdays from 5:45-6:45pm
LOOKING AHEAD
New Merch Drop - March 15th
The LŌKAHI Spring merch line is almost here! You can expect NEW rashguards, hoodies, grappling shorts and more! PLUS all pre-orders will be eligible for limited-time discounts.
Upcoming Tournaments
April 19th - Nebraska Jiu-Jitsu Championship Spring Open
Lincoln, NE
May 31st - Grappling Industries
Omaha, NE
Upcoming MARCH Birthdays
Wishing all of our Collective Members a very happy birthday!
4th - Jake Novak
6th - Chancellor Clem
7th - Riley Joyce
14th - Troy Ebel
25th - Corey Kropp
26th - Noah Richardson
“One of the best places I have ever trained! Plenty of space, clean facilities, and some of the best leaders!”