MMA for women
MMA is often viewed as a mostly male sport. Even though women have been competing in MMA since the mid 1990’s, there are few organizations which promote female fights and even organize them. As for now, the UFC does not host female fights but Strikeforce does since 2009 (bought up by Zuffa and there are many rumors about Strikeforce going down and UFC taking over the female divisions).
Japan has always been a major spot for female MMA and in the US, names such as Gina Carano and Cyborg Santos have been around for a while. However, from my perspective, female MMA has never been more popular than now and I believe the biggest reason for this is Rhonda Rousey.
Rhonda is in the first place an amazing fighter and athlete. She also handles the media well, does great marketing and is a great MMA spokesperson.
There is absolutely no reason that female MMA should be considered any less than male MMA. I’m positive many of these women would win over many men in the competitive circuit. It’s about time more money goes into this part of Mixed Martial Arts so these athletes can earn more money, therefore live better, train better and get even better as professional fighters!
At Define Defense, we have a nice solid group of great girls/women training MMA. They give some of our guys a hard time and are tough as nails. It is fantastic to see how they enjoy the very tactical and technical sport of MMA and BJJ and stand their ground. We always have everyone work at their level (while pushing their limits) but do not differentiate between male and female MMA clients. Our female members work as hard as anyone else and make our instructors proud!
Don’t ever let yourself get intimidated by the sport. There is no reason to. Try out a MMA class and see for yourself why it’s such a great sport! It’ll increase your self defense skills, get you in great shape and you’ll have a blast doing it!

By Sander Vanacker, owner, head instructor and personal trainer .
Define Defense in Boulder, CO
- Mixed Martial Arts
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
- Self Defense Classes & Workshops
- Personal Training
- Cross Training / TRX Classes
1805 11th Street Suite B
Boulder, CO 80302
(720) 340 6254
Info@DefineDefense.com
About Sander
This blog post is… well about myself. I am not writing this because I love talking about myself or out of narcissistic tendencies. I am posting this because I have had many questions about my background in martial arts, fitness, education etc. This is a great visual way to show everyone what I’ve done since I was a child that relates to my profession now.
I have been involved with a lot of different sports (especially in college of which I don’t have any visual materials for) and always continue to learn and try new things.
Buddy Week
Define Defense will be hosting ‘Buddy Days’ during September 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th. During these days, everyone can bring friends, family, spouses and whoever else they want to join them in our classes.
It doesn’t matter if your guests have done any martial arts or fitness classes before, just invite them to show them what you do and to have some fun!
Anyone is welcome! The person who brings the most ‘Buddies’ will get a free Define Defense T shirt.

Grappling Tournament Sponsors
Back to School Promo
From August 15th until September 15th, we will be running a Back to School promo!
Youth MMA Program:
Any child who signs up, gets a free custom Define Defense Gi (value: $49.99)
Mixed Martial Arts & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Program:
New clients get a free custom Define Defense rash guard (value: $40)
TRX / Cross Training Program:
New clients get a free Define Defense T Shirt (value: $19.99)
Class Pictures
See more pictures of some of our classes earlier this week on Facebook.com/DefineDefense


Pictures by www.JulieKatePhotography.com
Grappling Tournament Sponsorship Opportunities
Grappling Tournament Sponsorships
Many grappling tournaments are based on points which leads to boring matches and people winning by stalling. We have removed the possibility of that by removing the point structure and allowing you to win only by submitting your opponent. This style tournament is the most exciting to watch as well as to compete in.
Define Defense has a significant presence online through our website (over 1,00 views/month) and social media pages (reach of over 9,000 people/week) and will also invite all other studios and training facilities in the Denver and Boulder Metro areas. Our marketing efforts also include spreading posters and flyers in the area hotspots. A professional photographer will be present to capture the tournament’s highlights and share these with the local media.
We are pleased to offer you different levels of sponsorship, please see the options underneath.
You and any other representative of your company would be most welcome to attend so that we could thank you personally for your support.
We are looking forward to hearing from you. In case you have any queries you can contact us at the number underneath. Thank you for your time and considering sponsoring our event.
Sander Vanacker
Owner/Head Instructor
(720) 340 6254
Sponsorship Options
$100 Bronze (5 available)
- Company flyers and information in the gift bag
- Company recognition on Define Defense blog, tournament web page and social media (weekly for 1 month)
- Our undying love and gratitude
$250 Silver: Co-Sponsor (2 available)
- Mentioning of the company’s name during the opening and closing of the tournament
- Company flyers and information in the gift bag
- Company’s banner exposed in the tournament studio
- Company’s logo on Tournament banner (carried on every podium)
- Company recognition on Define Defense blog, tournament web page (under Main Sponsors with logo)
- Company recognition on Social Media (weekly for 2 months)
$500 Gold: Major Sponsor (1 available)
- Will be included in name of tournament as well put your logo up in multiple places in gym
(first Annual Submission only Tournament brought to you by *Company Name*)
- Your logo on our tournament posters, spread throughout Boulder, CO
- Company flyers and information in the gift bag
- Company’s banner exposed in the tournament studio
- Your logo will be on all certificates given to the top 3 contestants of all divisions.
- Company’s logo on Tournament banner (carried on every podium)
- Company recognition on Define Defense blog, tournament web page (under Main Sponsors with logo)
- Company recognition on Social Media (weekly for 4 months)
We will also accept merchandise to raffle away as this gets your name and products out there.
Submission Only Grappling Tournament

Register here: http://clients.mindbodyonline.com/ws.asp?studioid=14713&stype=-8
RESCHEDULED TO A LATER DATE, WILL BE ANNOUNCED SOON!
For more info, contact us at Info@DefineDefense.com
Submission Only
Tournament Rules
Weight Classes:
Men
*155 and under
*155-170
*170-190
*190 and up
*Open Weight
Women
*115 and under
*116 -135
*136-155
*155 and up
*Open Weight
Divisions
Beginner: up to a year
Intermediate: 1 - 3 years (blue belts and wrestlers required to do intermediate)
Advanced 3 years +
Rules
ILLEGAL TECHNIQUES / SERIOUS
Serious violations are marked with an asterisk and are grounds for immediate disqualification without a second warning.
NO striking of any kind
NO pressure points or nerve centers
NO eye gouging, biting, hair-pulling, ear-pulling, pinching, etc. *NO neck cranks(twisting the neck( twisters OK )
NO slams
NO small joint manipulation (fingers or toes)
No Heelhooks(reaping knee OK)
Minor violations are violations nonetheless. Repeated warnings may result in disqualification.
NO covering of the opponent’s nose or mouth with your hands
NO wrestling shoes, no sambo shoes – Bare feet only
Stalling will result in a warning for the first offense. Possible disqualification if continues. The referee will use his judgement to determine if it warrants a standup or a DQ.
General
No time limits, no points. Win by submission only.
Competitors must be clean. Competitors with offensive odors will not be permitted to compete.
If you have Ringworm, Staff infections, Athletes Foot or any other contagious disease, you may not compete.
Fingernails & toenails must be clean & clipped.
Remove all jewelry.
Cover up all open wounds.
Leglocks, including knee bars, are legal at all levels. Heelhooks are illegal at all levels.
Twisters, compressions, muscle locks legal at all levels.
Both competitors must engage at all times. If one person butt scoots and other backs away, the person sitting will be forced to stand.
Rules for Submission Only Tournament September 8th, 2012
Submission Only
Tournament Rules
Weight Classes:
Men
*155 and under
*155-170
*170-190
*190 and up
*Open Weight
Women
*115 and under
*116 -135
*136-155
*155 and up
*Open Weight
Divisions
Beginner: up to a year
Intermediate: 1 - 3 years (blue belts and wrestlers required to do intermediate)
Advanced 3 years +
Rules
ILLEGAL TECHNIQUES / SERIOUS
Serious violations are marked with an asterisk and are grounds for immediate disqualification without a second warning.
NO striking of any kind
NO pressure points or nerve centers
NO eye gouging, biting, hair-pulling, ear-pulling, pinching, etc. *NO neck cranks(twisting the neck( twisters OK )
NO slams
NO small joint manipulation (fingers or toes)
No Heelhooks(reaping knee OK)
Minor violations are violations nonetheless. Repeated warnings may result in disqualification.
NO covering of the opponent’s nose or mouth with your hands
NO wrestling shoes, no sambo shoes – Bare feet only
Stalling will result in a warning for the first offense. Possible disqualification if continues. The referee will use his judgement to determine if it warrants a standup or a DQ.
General
No time limits, no points. Win by submission only.
Competitors must be clean. Competitors with offensive odors will not be permitted to compete.
If you have Ringworm, Staff infections, Athletes Foot or any other contagious disease, you may not compete.
Fingernails & toenails must be clean & clipped.
Remove all jewelry.
Cover up all open wounds.
Leglocks, including knee bars, are legal at all levels. Heelhooks are illegal at all levels.
Twisters, compressions, muscle locks legal at all levels.
Both competitors must engage at all times. If one person butt scoots and other backs away, the person sitting will be forced to stand.
Tentative Schedule for Fall 2012
Here is our tentative schedule for the fall of 2012. As you see, all programs have a great selection of classes and class times.
If you have any recommendations or comments, go on our forum and leave them there. We will be compiling and reviewing them and make any changes that are possible to accommodate your requests.

No Gi Submission Only Tournament in Boulder, CO
On September 8th 2012, Define Defense will host its first annual No Gi Submission Only tournament.
The tournament will take place at Define Defense Martial Arts in Downtown Boulder and will be open to everyone.
Stay tuned as we will be putting up more information soon including fees, divisions, rules and registration links.
There will be no points and no time limits. There will however be rules against stalling.

July 2012 Specials!
July Specials, 2012!
Get $25 credit to use towards gear or merchandise when you refer a new client to us!
Free Define Defense Gi when signing up for a 6 or 12 month MMA membership!
Father's Day: What to Get?
Sunday is Father's Day! Sometimes it can be tricky to figure out what to get your husband, dad, grandpa, godfather etc. So here are some suggestions of the Define Defense Team:
A TRX Suspension Band: These are some of the best workout tools in the world. It may look like an innocent and easy piece of equipment but it will challenge you, no matter what level you are! Many pro athletes use it and Define Defense uses the TRX Suspension Bands every day for general fitness training, rehabilitation and MMA training! If that's not cool enough, keep in mind it was invented by a Navy Seal!
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & MMA classes: Get him a membership or a punch card for BJJ or MMA classes! Little boys love wrestling and grappling and deep inside somewhere, all men are still sort of boys. So give him a chance to learn BJJ & MMA. He will thoroughly enjoy it and learn great skills. It is a lot more than just rolling around on the ground, it's a highly tactical and intelligent ground game with many skills and techniques, call it a human chess game if you want. Plus, what do you have to lose? You get a husband that's in great shape and he can protect you better!
Self Defense: Perhaps your husband or dad has been bugging you for years since he's worried about you. Well, you know what the answer is: Take some self defense classes and take away his worries!
Cross Training / TRX classes: None of the above? No problem, get him a punch card or membership for Cross Training / TRX classes and let him pick when he comes to work out. Define Defense has 7 classes every week and no need to register beforehand. He will get a great and safe workout that will give him fantastic results. The instructors at Define Defense are very individually oriented and make sure you reach your personal goals!
Gift card: Can't decide between all these awesome choices? Well then you can just get a gift card and let him decide for himself! He can even use towards our retail products, such as boxing / MMA gloves, rash guards, pepper spray etc.
You can simply come into our studio to purchase or order something or contact us at info@DefineDefense.com
4 medals at NAGA!
Congrats to Roger, Robert, Will and Michael for winning gold and silver medals at the NAGA tournament on Saturday April 28th, 2012!
Great job guys, we’re proud of you!

Strength & Conditioning for BJJ
The most important thing in BJJ is time spent drilling and sparring. However, if you are planning on competing there are several other factors that matter. Two of the most important factors are strength and conditioning. Are you strong enough to get out of a heavier opponents mount? Do your arms give out when trying to do guillotines? What about your lungs? All of these issues can be addressed when you enroll in a strength and conditioning program.
In combat sports, you are usually matched with an opponent of equal weight and often, as the case with Brazilian Jiujitsu, equal skill or belt rank. Since this is true, it is a good idea to have every advantage over your opponent possible. If your technical ability and size are the same, then the opponent who did more and trained harder will usually win.
The great thing about our strength and conditioning classes is the variety of equipment. For example, when training with TRX bands you can make it as hard or easy as you want. You do this usually by moving closer or farther away from the anchor point. This saves a lot of time usually spent changing weights. Another great thing is the negative resistance training. Negative resistance concentrates on the lowering phase of the exercise. For example, when bench pressing, you would lower the weight very slowly then have assistance pushing it up. This type of training lends itself to great strength gains. It also focuses on stabilization muscles which greatly help your overall strength.
Your overall jujitsu game is by far the most important piece of the puzzle. The more you drill and train, the better you will be. However, if you are matched with an equally skilled and sized opponent, it is usually the stronger more conditioned athlete that wins. Make sure you are doing more than your opponents in all areas of your training. More drills, more rolling, more strength training and more cardio. This is the only way to ensure victory.
By Drew Ash, head Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instructor at Define Defense in Boulder, Colorado
Define Defense in Boulder, CO
- Modern Martial Arts
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & MMA
- Self Defense Classes & Workshops
- Personal Training
- Cross Training / TRX Classes
1805 11th Street Suite B
Boulder, CO 80302
(720) 340 6254
Info@DefineDefense.com
Wednesday extra BJJ rolling time
On Wednesdays, we will be adding an extra hour to practice your BJJ skills. From 6.15-7.15pm, you can come and roll (free sparring/grappling) with others (BJJ members only). No technique will be taught during this hour (there is another BJJ class at 8.15pm), this hour is for rolling only.
Please note: This is a trial run and temporary. This hour can be switched back towards other classes or workshops so keep an eye on the schedule! When anything changes, we will notify you as always on this page or our Facebook page.
My Training Progress & Paleo Preparations
Last Thursday, Mike and his wife Jessica told us more about their experiences with the Paleo diet (aka Cavemen diet). The concept of doing the hunter/gatherer diet really appeals to me since it doesn’t allow anything that was not available at that time in history. And if that isn’t enough, just keep in mind that individuals such as Jason Statham, Frank Mir and Forest Griffin use the Paleo diet to cut weight!
I won’t get into the details since I’m not a nutritionist and also don’t know all the details about the diet but here are some great links if you are interested:
During the month of March, I will strictly follow the Paleo diet. It’s my intention to eat healthier (goodbye manipulated or processed foods) and also lean out. After all, many off the illnesses and diseases we deal with are caused by our nutrition.
To prepare, I have slightly adjusted my meal plan already before starting on the Paleo diet. Since last week, I have slightly dropped to 12% body fat. My workouts have been the same but my meals have been leaner. The 2% drop corresponds well with the weight difference on the scale, however I believe I was holding water before which played a factor in my earlier measurements. My body does adjust quickly and is very responsive, which helps a great amount and just makes me more excited for my Paleo experience!
A few examples of my workout days this past week:
Wednesday:
- Bag striking drills and kicks (45 minutes)
- Shoulder workout with cleans, shoulder raises and front raises (40 minutes)
- Full body strength & conditioning class (60 minutes)
- Modern Martial Arts class, leg heavy (60 minutes)
Thursday:
- Drills and games in the Youth martial arts class
- Full body strength & conditioning class (60 minutes, I focussed mostly on abs and back)
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class (45 minutes)
This wasn’t my hardest week since I took a few days off and lacked some time to work out. However, the training was plenty to maintain and in combination with my adjusted meal plan, good to cut some weight. My average week will contain 4 weight lifting sessions, 3 full on strength & conditioning workouts and a mix of Modern Martial Arts and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 5-6 days/week.

By Sander Vanacker, owner and head instructor of Define Defense Martial Arts & Personal Training.
Define Defense in Boulder, CO
- Modern Martial Arts
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & MMA
- Self Defense Classes & Workshops
- Personal Training
- Cross Training / TRX Classes
1805 11th Street Suite B
Boulder, CO 80302
Our No Gi Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Program - Downtown Boulder
A little more about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at our Define Defense studio:
Our No Gi Jiu Jitsu Classes
My main background in martial arts is stand up fighting and self defense (for almost 19 years now). I have also been training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu since 2008. For the first three years, I only practiced with the gi, based on Gracie Jiu Jitsu.
Before opening Define Defense, I met Drew (our BJJ instructor) and he introduced me to the world of no gi Jiu Jitsu. This was a huge change for me since I had never done Brazilian Jiu Jitsu without the gi before.
Drew doesn’t only teach no gi Jiu Jitsu, he also shows great techniques from catch wrestling, Judo and (my favorite): 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu.
This has made my grappling game improve tremendously and now, I feel much more confident and skilled. Of course, we still go over the basics to have a solid foundation but being able to supplement this with techniques from other forms of submission wrestling has made a huge difference. I am now able to catch Twisters, control people with Rubber Guard, catch calf slicers etc. For me, it has made a huge difference, both skill wise and mentally. I can put things together better and am able to think out of the box and make transitions easier.
Gi Jiu Jitsu is still great and I am very thankful I have learned the basics the way I did. However, I feel much more versatile now that I don’t have to rely on the gi anymore (my opinion, I am aware others may have different experiences).
Also, having so many classes each week makes it convenient for everyone else to fit it in their schedule. It’s also a great workout and combining it with strength & conditioning classes simply makes you stronger and more skilled.
More info on the No Gi Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Program here.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for Self Defense
For self defense purposes, Jiu Jitsu is the ultimate way to protect yourself on the ground. That being said, there is a certain amount of skills you should possess BUT more would be irrelevant for pure self defense situations.
After all, the chances of your attacker knowing a gift wrap choke is extremely small or doing a banana split would be useless. A great self defense course absolutely needs to teach some Brazilian Jiu Jitsu but it should never be the only thing to rely on. After all, if you can avoid going to the ground, you always should (for example: a sexual assault situation), no matter how good your grappling is. There is the issue of ground and pound, plus your attacker’s accomplice may be just around the corner.
Jiu Jitsu is extremely important for self defense since you do not have to rely on strength; instead, technique will help you get back to safety. Knowing how to avoid situations, accurate striking, stand up self defense locks and techniques etcetera play a very important role as well and a self defense course should offer a complete package of all these aspects.


By Sander Vanacker, Define Defense’s certified personal trainer and head martial arts instructor, based in Boulder, Colorado. Take a look at www.DefineDefense.com, www.TrainerVanacker.com or check out our videos on YouTube.com/DefineDefense !
Define Defense in Boulder, CO
- Modern Martial Arts
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & MMA
- Self Defense Classes & Workshops
- Personal Training
- Cross Training / TRX Classes
1805 11th Street Suite B
Boulder, CO 80302
Training the energy systems
Lactic acid tolerance training
This will improve your tolerance but also your body’s ability to buffer it and increase lactate removal from the muscle.
Intervals of less than 1 minute will require 4-8 repetitions with long recovery periods in between (15-30 minutes)
Longer intervals of 2-3 minutes are desirable but only if you can hold the intensity.
This is a very hard workout so don’t overdo it.
Maximum oxygen consumption training
Intervals of 3-5 minutes, max intensity. Heart rate up to 10 beats under your max.
Improve efficiency of the oxygen transport system.
Anaerobic Threshold Training
Tempo training with speed slightly above comfortable. Intensity should be 60-90% of max and you have to hold it throughout your training. Lactate levels will be above 4 millimol and will build up.
Phosphate system training
Short bursts of maximum intensity up to 10 seconds. Long recovery necessary to prevent lactate production.
Aerobic Threshold Training (Long Slow Distance Training)
More than 1 hour
No lactate production
Comfortable intensity (have to be able to talk)
Will improve endurance and recovery time
By Sander Vanacker, Define Defense’s certified personal trainer and head martial arts instructor, based in Boulder, Colorado. Take a look at www.DefineDefense.com, www.TrainerVanacker.com or check out our videos on YouTube.com/DefineDefense !
Define Defense in Boulder, CO
- Modern Martial Arts
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & MMA
- Self Defense Classes & Workshops
- Personal Training
- Cross Training / TRX Classes
1805 11th Street Suite B
Boulder, CO 80302
Energy Systems
Energy required for muscle contraction is released by by the conversion of ATP into ADP+P
Therefore, ATP sources need to constantly replenished by different energy systems:
Phosphagen System
Readily available in the body and can be used instantaneously for efforts up to 8-10 seconds. Very important for weight lifters, sprinters etc. No lactic acid production and no oxygen necessary.
After the effort, in the first 30 seconds, 70% of the creatinephosphate is replenished and in 3 to 5 minutes, a 100% is replenished.
Lactic Acid System
The lactic acid system provides energy for resynthesizing ATP for events up to 40 seconds (first 10 will be Phosphagen system). It breaks down glycogen stored in the muscle cells and liver and produces lactic acid (no oxygen used which creates an oxygen debt).
Restoring glycogen takes 2 hours for 40% and 24 hours for full restoration after a workout with breaks throughout. For a continuous, high intensity workout, it can take 48 hours.
95% of the lactic acid is removed after 1 hour and 15 minutes so the muscle pains you may feel for the next few days are not lactic acid but micro damage in your muscle.
Aerobic System
Fully activated after 60-80 seconds (warmup is important) to produce energy for resynthesizing ATP from AD+P. Energy sources are fats and glycogen (and protein occasionally).
Primary energy system for endurance athletes.
No lactic acid production or buildup.
However, in most cases, the aerobic system and lactic acid system work at the same time! The ratio depends on the intensity of your efforts.
The best indicator of which energy system you are actually using when exercising is measuring the level of lactic acid in the blood. The threshold (point where both energy systems are working but no build up of lactic acid) is 4 millimoles. Over that and you will get a buildup because your body is producing more than it can take away.
You can raise the threshold by training. An athlete with a good aerobic base (endurance) can work with higher intensity before crossing the threshold.
By Sander Vanacker, Define Defense’s certified personal trainer and head martial arts instructor, based in Boulder, Colorado. Take a look at www.DefineDefense.com, www.TrainerVanacker.com or check out our videos on YouTube.com/DefineDefense !
Define Defense in Boulder, CO
- Modern Martial Arts
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & MMA
- Self Defense Classes & Workshops
- Personal Training
- Cross Training / TRX Classes
1805 11th Street Suite B
Boulder, CO 80302
Supercompensation
Everything we do in our training and our training planning is affected by supercompensation. It refers to the biological state your body is after working out and rest. When you work out, your body is fatigued in many different ways and this reduces the functional capacities of your body. After resting, your body will recover and replenish and if the training stimuli were big enough, you will achieve a higher homeostatic level. This means your body will be stronger, you will have more endurance, more glycogen stored etc.
If you do not allow your body to rest before working out again, you will land in a negative spiral and exhaust your body more. This will lead to decreased performance and overtraining.
If you rest too much, you will lose the supercompensation results and you will be right back at where you started. The right (smart) training and the right amount of rest is key!
By Sander Vanacker, Define Defense’s certified personal trainer and head martial arts instructor, based in Boulder, Colorado. Take a look at www.DefineDefense.com, www.TrainerVanacker.com or check out our videos on YouTube.com/DefineDefense !
Define Defense in Boulder, CO
- Modern Martial Arts
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & MMA
- Self Defense Classes & Workshops
- Personal Training
- Cross Training / TRX Classes
1805 11th Street Suite B
Boulder, CO 80302
ADCC
Ill keep this short. If you didnt get to check out ADCC last week you missed out, as it was possibly the most impressive grappling tournament ever. And for those that say rubber guard doesnt work at a high level... Vinny Magalhaes put two-time heavyweight champion through the basic rubber guard path to catch a sweep and win the gold in the heavyweight division. Another big topic was Rousimar Palhares, but I wont give an opinion as there are currently a plethora of articles on the subject as well as it currently headlining one of the most popular mma websites out there. Marcelo Garcia proved to be as nasty as everyone thought he was, making quick work of nearly everyone he faced. He nearly tapped from a guillotine from Kron Gracie in the semi-finals, but got out and won on points. No competitor he faced even scored a point on him. In short, this performance solidified him (in my mind) as the greatest around. Now go train.
By Drew Ash, Define Defense’s BJJ instructor, based in Boulder, Colorado. Take a look at www.DefineDefense.com or check out our videos on YouTube.com/DefineDefense !
It's not too late to get a great deal!
- If you sign up for one of our martial arts programs, you get the remainder of December for free! You membership will only start January 1st but throughout December, you get free classes.
- You can purchase a gift card to use towards Personal Training for yourself or someone else.
- If you get a 10 class punch card for Martial Arts, Yoga, Women's Self Defense or Strength & Conditioning classes, you will get an additional 3 classes for free.
- All retail products in stock (protective gear, merchandise) are 20% off.
Offers expire December 31st! Please remember that, starting January 1st, we will be offering a separate monthly membership for unlimited Strength & Conditioning classes! This program will still be complimentary for our Modern Martial Arts, MMA and BJJ clients in the form of punch cards.
End of the Year Deals
- If you sign up for one of our martial arts programs, you get the remainder of December for free! You membership will only start January 1st but throughout December, you get free classes!
- If you get a 10 class punch card for Martial Arts, Yoga, Women's Self Defense or Strength & Conditioning classes, you will get an additional 3 classes for free!
- All retail products in stock (protective gear, merchandise) are 20% off!
Offers expire December 31st! Please remember that, starting January 1st, we will be offering a separate monthly membership for unlimited Strength & Conditioning classes! This program will still be complimentary for our Modern Martial Arts, MMA and BJJ clients.
Metroseen.com Video!
Music by Roy Dean (www.roydeanacademy.com)
metroseen.com presents Define Defense - Boulder, CO from metroseen.com on Vimeo.
Metroseen is the place where you'll find the best local businesses telling their unique stories on video! These are extraordinary videos telling extraordinary stories. As you discover each place through these vignettes, you'll find that you're discovering your community as well! Check out other videos on www.metroseen.com
Register for 10th Planet seminar!
Join us on this seminar from 6-9pm and learn more about 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu. The seminar will be taught by Matthias Sieber.
Matthias has his own 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu school in Hamburg, Germany (http://www.sportschule-hamburg.de/) and these are his records:
1st Place South German Championship BJJ 2006 -64 kg
3rd Place German No Gi Championships 2006 -67 kg
2nd Place Tap or Snap 2007 -70 kg
2nd Place German Championships Luta Livre 2007
2nd Place Baltic Grappling Challenge 2007 BJJ
1st Place Iron Warrior 2007 -80 kg No Gi
1st Place Iron Warrior 2007 -80 kg BJJ
1st Place German Grappling Championship 2007 -75 kg
Award for Best Technique German Grappling Championship 2007
1st Place Summer Slam 2008 -60 kg
3rd Place Submission Ink 2010 Ontario USA -145 lbs
1st Place NAGA West Coast Championship 2011 -129.9 lbs
2nd Place Quest For The Best (17.09.2011) -139 lbs
This seminar is for everyone 16 years and up (under 18 needs signature from parent).
Space is limited so sign up asap!
$50 for the full seminar. If you sign up for both seminars, you get 25% off.
Contact us at info@definedefense.com or (720) 340 6254 or sign up here:
http://clients.mindbodyonline.com/ws.asp?studioid=14713&stype=-8&sTG=26&sView=day

New tutorial: Triangle Series
10th Planet Jiu Jitsu Seminar with Matthias Sieber
Matthias has his own 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu school in Hamburg, Germany (http://www.sportschule-hamburg.de/) and these are his records:
1st Place South German Championship BJJ 2006 -64 kg
3rd Place German No Gi Championships 2006 -67 kg
2nd Place Tap or Snap 2007 -70 kg
2nd Place German Championships Luta Livre 2007
2nd Place Baltic Grappling Challenge 2007 BJJ
1st Place Iron Warrior 2007 -80 kg No Gi
1st Place Iron Warrior 2007 -80 kg BJJ
1st Place German Grappling Championship 2007 -75 kg
Award for Best Technique German Grappling Championship 2007
1st Place Summer Slam 2008 -60 kg
3rd Place Submission Ink 2010 Ontario USA -145 lbs
1st Place NAGA West Coast Championship 2011 -129.9 lbs
2nd Place Quest For The Best (17.09.2011) -139 lbs
This seminar is for everyone 16 years and up (under 18 needs signature from parent).
Space is limited so sign up asap!
$50 for the full seminar. If you sign up for both seminars, you get 25% off.
Contact us at info@definedefense.com or (720) 340 6254 or sign up here:
http://clients.mindbodyonline.com/ws.asp?studioid=14713&stype=-8&sTG=26&sView=day

A little more about what we do for our clients...
I have met many individuals that practice martial arts and hire a personal trainer or strength & conditioning coach on the side. Or they practice yoga outside of martial arts classes to improve their flexibility, feel in sync with their body etc. At Define Defense, we approach martial arts training through a modern way and want to redefine martial arts and self defense (Define Defense, get it?).
What we do is offer different programs for different purposes:
- Modern Martial Arts for people wanting to learn and practice all the best of different martial arts in a modern and realistic way while getting a great workout (everything from standup, takedowns, throws etc.)
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for all levels and offering a highly effective mix of BJJ and other forms of submission wrestling for a superior ground game
- Mixed Martial Arts: combining Modern Martial Arts and BJJ for individuals who want to learn MMA or compete
- Women's Self Defense without the intimidation of having men around, all the best and most effective ways to defend yourself as a woman
These programs offer different things for different people and are specific to the goal that wants to be reached. Now, as a client you will learn a lot of techniques, tactics, submissions, strikes and much more but what if you want to get stronger, in better shape, more flexible etc? That is why all our clients get complimentary Circuit Training and Yoga classes. These are included in your membership and are taught by certified instructors. There is no more need for separate memberships, gyms, trainers and costs. You get a full training package as a member in our studio. This way, you get a better and more complete training experience without any additional cost. You will actually save money because you don't have to go elsewhere anymore. Our membership fees are highly competitive (the best in the Boulder area) and there are no setup fees or cancellation fees. Our philosophy is to treat others as you want to be treated and we love the community we have at Define Defense.
Some new pics


Our new website
We are pleased to tell you we have expanded our programs and class times. A few changes we have made:
- We have revamped our website at www.DefineDefense.com for your convenience
- We have added an adult Modern Martial Arts class (9 classes + 3 circuit training classes for you to join now!)
- We have added a women's self defense class (now 6 instead of 5)
- The women's self defense program is $250 for 2 months of unlimited classes and includes a pair of gloves (to ensure protection of the wrists).
- A new Brazilian Jiu Jitsu program will be launched this Monday, this program offers 8 BJJ classes throughout the week and also offers 3 circuit training classes, free of charge. All new clients joining the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu program will receive a $50 gift certificate to redeem with their membership. This offer is valid until July 31st.
- Joining both Modern Martial Arts and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu will also be possible with our Platinum Program for only an additional $20 per month, please contact us for more information
- Define Defense has partnered up with Max Muscle Sports Nutrition in Boulder. We are happy to inform our clients that they will enjoy a permanent 15% discount on all products and every new/existing client of the Modern Martial Arts/BJJ program will receive a $75 gift card to Max Muscle!
- You will also find all our videos and pictures on our website and we are adding more every week
- A new blogging website is on its way and don't forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter!
Please note that the revised schedule goes into effect Monday July 27th!
Define Defense is also having custom printed rash guards made to wear underneath your gi or for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. These help you stay cool and prevent mat burns. We will be ordering these in black and silver, short and long sleeves. However, if you are interested in purchasing rash guards, please let me know so we can order appropriately to ensure we have your size and color. The rash guards will be available for only $40. For more info, please feel free to contact us.
The Define Defense team hopes these changes will positively affect your training and we strive to continue to provide a fun and professional training setting.
Thank you for your support and we hope to see you again soon!
Sander Vanacker
Owner / Head Instructor
Define Defense Martial Arts & Private Training
MMA & BJJ Instructor Conor "Hurricane" Heun
Define Defense is proud to announce that Conor “Hurricane” Heun is our new Mixed Martial Arts & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instructor. Conor is teaching the following Friday nights and will be teaching 2-4 times every week starting the end of February. The other MMA classes will be taught by instructor Sander Vanacker. NOTE: All MMA & BJJ classes will be 1.5 hour long!
Conor is a highly skilled and experienced professional MMA fighter who fought under the Strikeforce banner and who also has a brown belt in 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu under Eddie Bravo. He is known for his will power and mental strength as well as his work ethic and technique.
Our 1.5 hour classes will be a blend of MMA and MMA specific Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. As for now, Conor is teaching MMA skills step by step, therefore since a fight starts standing, we cover the standing skills first. In March, we will go over grappling from the bottom, followed by dominant top position etc.
Come train at Define Defense with our instructors Conor Heun and Sander Vanacker now! This month, we give FREE strength & conditioning classes along with our MMA memberships (12mo: $125, 6mo: $140, 3mo: $160), which gives you unlimited access to our 15 classes/week in TRX, Kettle Bell and Warrior Training.
Here is more info on Conor Heun:
PROFESSIONAL RECORD
9 - 5 - 0 (Win - Loss - Draw)
WINS
1 (T)KOs ( 12.5 %)
5 Submissions ( 62.5 %)
2 Decisions ( 25 %)
Follow on:
www.ConorHeun.com
www.Facebook.com/Conor.Heun
Twitter.com/ConorHeun

Unsatisfied and unwilling to give up on his goal of becoming champion, Conor enrolled at Div. III wrestling powerhouse, Ithaca College. Following a redshirt year on the sidelines, Heun notched 20 wins and qualified for the NCAA tournament. He failed to place. Faced with injuries and rising academic pressure, Heun would never again see the NCAA tournament.

After graduating with a BA in English Literature, Conor moved back to Boulder where he opened a silk screening business and became an assistant wrestling coach. Feeling like he was destined for bigger things, Conor moved to southern California where he took a job selling dental equipment. Looking for a way to stay fit, Conor began training at Eddie Bravo's 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu Academy. Encouraged by training partners Jason Chambers and Amir Rahnavardi, Conor stepped into the cage for the first time on May 12, 2006 winning his pro debut by rear naked choke.
Conor soon began training full time under the tutelage of Chris Reilly and Eddie Bravo at Legends MMA. His exciting and aggressive style soon caught the eye of Bas Rutten who recruited Conor to fight for the Los Angeles Anacondas in the International Fight League. After fighting in the IFL for one season, he moved on to fight for Elite XC and now is under contract with Strikeforce. Always one to bring the fight to his opponents, his never boring style continues to make him a star to watch as he battles for the belt.
New Year Resolution Deals!
If you want to work on your New Year Resolutions, you can take advantage of the following deals during January:
All memberships: 50% OFF YOUR FIRST MONTH
All punch cards: 20% additional free classes for the same price!
Before 1/1/13, you can still take advantage of the following deals:
Mixed Martial Arts:
20% off memberships and punch cards
+ a free T shirt or tank top
Self Defense:
Four self defense classes, a Mace 10% Pepper Gel and a Define Defense T shirt or tank top for only $99
TRX / Cross Training:
20% off memberships and punch cards
+ a free T shirt or tank top
Kettle Bell Program:
20% off memberships and punch cards
+ a free T shirt or tank top
Personal Training:
First session is free!
Youth Martial Arts:
20% off memberships and punch cards
+ a free Gi
Holiday Deals
Holidays are coming and Define Defense is in the holiday spirit! We are offering our new clients our best deals to date! We offer high quality training in:
- Mixed Martial Arts
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
- Self Defense Classes & Workshops
- TRX & Cross Training Classes
- Kettle Bell Classes
- Personal Training
From now until January 1st 2013, we offer the following deals:
Mixed Martial Arts:
20% off memberships and punch cards
+ a free T shirt or tank top
Self Defense:
Four self defense classes, a Mace 10% Pepper Gel and a Define Defense T shirt or tank top for only $99
TRX / Cross Training:
20% off memberships and punch cards
+ a free T shirt or tank top
Kettle Bell Program:
20% off memberships and punch cards
+ a free T shirt or tank top
Personal Training:
First session is free!
Youth Martial Arts:
20% off memberships and punch cards
+ a free Gi

Saturday Classes
We will not have classes on Saturday September 8th since our instructors and some of our members are going to the Eddie Bravo seminar in Denver.
See you Friday or Monday!
Only BJJ on Labor Day
Have a great Labor Day! Also, remember that the new schedule is in effect!


