One of the most persistent criticisms leveled against Judo is surprisingly simple: “Judo won’t work if the other guy isn’t wearing a gi or a jacket.” Historically, however, the American military spent decades demonstrating otherwise. Long before modern…
Combat Judo and America’s WWII Special Reconnaissance Warriors By Barron Shepherd The relationship between the Alamo Scouts and Judo is rooted in the grueling, hand-to-hand combat training required for World War II elite forces.The Alamo Scouts (U.S. Sixth…
Understanding the Cross Hock as a Distinct Combative Takedown The Cross Hock Takedown occupies an interesting position in the history of American military hand-to-hand combat. At first glance, the technique bears a superficial resemblance to Judo’s Osoto Gari,…
The False Lead Advantage The False Lead is an asymmetrical, highly unorthodox combat posture that completely decouples the upper-body weapons from the lower-body base. By placing your right foot forward as your heavy anchor, yet blading your torso…
CROSS TRAINING VS. CROSS RANKING Martial arts are built on discipline, respect, and legitimacy. While two terms – cross training and cross ranking – may appear similar, they represent opposite approaches to growth and recognition within the martial community. As…
Dynamic Kajukenbo emphasizes the evolution of martial arts, blending traditional systems like Karate, Judo, Kenpo and boxing with modern combatives to create a street-ready, adaptable martial art. This makes it highly relevant for those looking to move beyond…
“Barron Shepherd is a tremendous advocate for all the things that make combative training great! Martial artists travel along a path. Some find the beginning of that path in a dojo and remain for a lifetime. Others…
During WWII, military combatives programs prioritized techniques that were practical, easy to learn, and effective under stress. The reverse hip throw was one of four core throws taught across U.S. military training manuals because of its proven success…
Barron Shepherd’s Combat Judo differs from traditional Judo in several key ways, largely in its focus and application. While both are rooted in the same Japanese martial arts principles, Combat Judo is specifically tailored for real-world combat situations.…