The more time you spend on the mat, the better you get. But if you spend your time wisely, you can improve two or even three times as fast by following a few simple ideas.

According to the website, Fight Soap is an "ultra premium lineup of soap made for Mixed Martial Arts MMA fighters, strikers, and grapplers". The soap is made with some essential oils that are supposed to have anti bacterial properties. The soap comes in a small plastic container that makes it easy to toss in your gym bag.

I can't always train at my own school. When I am on vacation, a business trip, or just visiting a different area, sometimes I try to find a local school where I can get some mat time in. Several guys have asked me questions about etiquette when training away from home and so I thought I would share some things that I do and that have served me well in the past. This is what I do, and I have always had a great experience. Your mileage may vary.

The production values and packaging for this 2 DVD set are very good. The whole package has a nice clean Zen aesthetic that sets it apart from a lot of other videos. The first DVD opens with Roy sharing some of his philosophy on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and it is nice to get a feeling about where he is coming from.

This is one of those recipes you just have to have some faith in and make. Everyone reads it, says no way, and then when the make it they can’t believe how good it tastes.

They call it Raven’s Run. Robert Kraft was a young failed songwriter when he returned home to South Beach in 1970. He had taken beating from the music business in Nashville, getting no work and having a song ripped off that ended up making the country charts. He was angry, bitter, and a little lost. He began running with some guys from a local boxing club because it helped him feel better. Eventually he worked up to running 8 miles along the beach.

This month we welcome Aaron Blake as Expert of the Month. Aaron started training under Royce and Helio Gracie where he recieved his blue belt, and recieved his black belt from Joe Moriera.

Grip strength is incredibly important for BJJ, especially when training with the gi. A traditional gripper may help with finger grip strength but it won’t help with wrist strength or thumb strength which can both make a difference when trying to hold on to a wriggling opponent. These exercises will help you develop finger, thumb, and wrist strength that is functional for BJJ.

This week the guys take a look at the popular Atama Ultra Light Gi and discuss Pete's 'large base'.

This week Aaron shows us a nice series for dealing with an opponent who has good upright posture in your guard.