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Strikeforce gives Unbridled Martial Arts a special discount on tickets


Friday, July 23rd, 2010 at 8:00pm
(Preliminary bouts start at 6:00pm)

<Click here for details>


Cause for celebration!
July 2010 will be our 7-year anniversary & we will be hosting an open house for students and their friends and families.
There will be demonstrations, entertainment, refreshments, games and giveaways.

By invite only.

Friday July 30th at 6:30pm.

Happy Independence Day!

Thanks for all the cooking, Kari!

 

Students:
Awesome outdoor circuit training!
Way to push it.
15 stations. 3 mins each for 45 mins straight.



In celebration of the club's 7th year anniversary:
Every student that made it to class for the 1st day of July can bring in a friend to train for free for the entire month at no obligation.

Just a way to say thanks for your commitment to learn and represent the arts. Without your dedication, we would not have grown into the club we are today.



July 4th Cookout
& Independence Day workout!

UMA students: This sunday bring friends and family and your favorite food to throw on the grill.

We will do an outdoor weightlifting circuit for 45 mins and then eat & drink & celebrate the holiday!



Workout starts at 1pm. Eating by 2pm.
Come burn some calories and then put some right back on!

July 2010 Unbridled Martial Arts celebrates its...
7th Year Anniversary!!

Private Yoga session at Unbridled Martial Arts with Bellingham's premiere Yoga instructor; Summer Huntington.


June 2010 Summer taught a yoga session for UMA students and their friends.
Thank you, Summer; for your incredible teaching skills, vibrant energy and giving spirit! - All of us thoroughly enjoyed studying the art of Yoga under your guidance.

Summer Huntington is the owner of Fit Body Wellness; a mobile fitness company.

Fit Body Wellness provides private and community yoga instruction as well as personal and group workout sessions that are fun and dynamic.

Other services include wellness consulting, coaching, and program designing for individuals and businesses.


Click logo above for details & pricing
or call 360.927.2710 for a free consultation.

Summer is a Health and Fitness Specialist, Wellness Coach and Yoga Instructor. She holds certifications from the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Council on Exercise.


In addition to her yoga credentials, Summer is a certified instructor in Circular Strength Training (CST), which incorporates the use of Clubbells™. Many accomplished fighters such as Alberto Crane, Jorge Rivera, Andrei Arlovski, and Elvis Sinosic swear by Clubbells™ in improving their fitness and conditioning. As a clear testiment of Clubbells'™ effectiveness, the CST fitness system has been adopted by the U.S. Army.

Thanks again, Summer! ~And Namaste.

For the 1st time at Unbridled Martial Arts
we provide lessons for children ages 6 -14

The curriculum that I teach teens and adults (16 yrs and older) includes hardcore self-defense techniques from day one. It’s not appropriate for young children.

This kids program is completely separate from the customary training at UMA. This newly offered course is designed for kids. With each class your child will strengthen his or her character for better self-control and sound judgment while learning that work and play can be done at the same time.

Space is limited. There is an interview process and application waiting list.

NOTE: This is for serious-minded parents who wish to have their child experience martial arts and its benefits, not for parents who are shopping for just any activity to keep their child busy.

Information on private lessons or group workshops


I have been asked for years if I teach private lessons. Occasionally, yes, but for the most part I really haven't. This is because I have been focused on growing the club, and keeping my contribution to the arts very accessible. I want as many people as possible at a time to get something out of it.

The time I give to the club, I give away freely. In order to schedule private sessions, it sacrifices my already limited and valued free time.

Private lessons are for those seeking specific, one-on-one attention and guidance.

Workshops are for groups to engage in a single session program that starts from the ground up.

I now offer both to those who truly want or truly need it.



Frank promotes Unbridled Martial Arts in his book, "Mixed Martial Arts for Dummies"
Now go out and get this book :)

Thanks Frank!!!

FREE TRAINING FOR FIGHT TEAM MEMBERS
If you compete for our school you can train for free and there are opportunities for additional training & coaching. Come talk to me to set this up.

My one main criteria if you enlist strictly for competition is that you can not be a criminal or a jackass.
Not sure? Well, if you committed a homicide you are probably a criminal. If people around you say “could you please not spill your beer on my clothing” you are probably a jackass.
If you talk about MMA about 80% of the time and you train about 10% of the time and shoot heroin or steriods the other 10% of the time, then you are a jackass and you are a criminal.


MMA schools
I am always happy to promote worthwhile seminars and will continue to do so for other schools.

Do not send us last-minute invites to a seminar.
Many places of employment require 2 weeks notice to get time off work. Some of our students who work weekends would have liked to attend but can’t on short notice. Moreover, when you send late invitations it’s just plain insulting and shows that there is not a sufficient turnout and you need $ to cover the cost.

Class structure

There are additional training days available to members.
See the schedule for days & times.
(Weight training, yoga for the martial artist, open mat for grappling)
Expect to see more of a blend between the stand-up and groundwork on the Tuesday & Thursday night classes. Our newly renovated floors now allow for us to train in every range imaginable without breaking to set up mats.
Bring a Gi top if you want to incorporate the use of clothing into your fighting.

“ UMA is Washington’s premier mixed martial arts training facility for adults and teens… blah blah blah! ”
Ha ha.
All kidding aside. Check out our training hall.

  • 2100 sq. ft.
  • Changing room, bathroom, shower, lockers
  • More than 1800 sq. ft. of open mat space (35ft. x 55ft.)
  • 10 stationary punching bags
  • 10 hanging punching bags
  • Thai pads, focus mitts, shin guards, jump ropes, protective eyewear, floor bags, double-end bag, speed bag, throwing dummy, grappling dummy, medicine balls, 3-inch thick undulation workout rope, wall mirrors
  • Dozens of kettlebells
  • Free weights
  • Elliptical treadmill
  • Boxing & MMA gloves, escrima sticks, training knives –for beginners to borrow
  • Wide open bay doors for added ventilation
  • Beautiful outdoor training
 

The great thing about our hanging bags is that we have a custom-engineered pulley system that allows us to move them when not in use in order to optimize training space.

 

There will be a boxing ring in the near future with a revolutionary design that can be easily dismantled to preserve our mat space for grappling.

 

Do you ever see shit like this is in your yard or apartment property without your permission?

 

Either chuck it or insist on compensation for the ad space ~like a free membership.
www.camps4summer.com

Summer 2010 Unbridled Martial Arts will host a spectacular 2-week martial arts and sightseeing odyssey through Thailand, where the national sport is kickboxing.

Click here to see the amazing itinerary.
For more information and to register contact via email ThailandExcursion@UnbridledMartialArts.com or phone (360) 676-9909.


Free Kettlebell classes offered to current UMA students & their family & friends.
Unbridled Martial Arts has over 32 kettlebells available for use from 4 lbs to 70 lbs.

Kettlebells challenge both the muscular and cardiovascular system with dynamic, total-body movements. Their use builds functional strength, stamina, flexibility, and can actually rehabilitate old injuries. The kettlebell is a fun, unique, portable piece of exercise equipment that anyone can use to get in shape—and its versatility is bar none!

Do your body a favor and learn only from certified Kettlebell instructors.

Summer 2008 UMA instructor Rob Eis earned his CrossFit Kettlebell Instructor certification from Jeff Martone, one of the first certified senior Kettlebell instructors in the U.S.

Jeff Martone is the first person to implement kettlebells into federal law enforcement training and has over 15 yrs experience as a full-time defensive tactics, firearms, and special response team instructor.






UNBRIDLED MARTIAL ARTS MAKES IT IN THE NEWSPAPER

On Sept. 29th, 2008 in San Clemente, California, Rob Eis earns rank of PFS apprentice instructor from Paul Vunak

Progressive Fighting Systems (PFS) was founded in 1983 by Paul Vunak, who had trained under Dan Inosanto, Bruce Lee’s top student.

PFS is an organization dedicated to teaching realistic self defense and promoting the expansion of Jeet Kune Do and the Filipino Martial Arts. PFS is widely regarded as a street-effective system known for its emphasis on headbutts, knees, and elbows thrown from the clinch. These techniques form the basis of the system's Rapid Assault Tactics program. Typically the stick and knife are also taught, with techniques drawn from the Filipino martial art of Kali.

As supported in Rob's training with Sifu Vunak, Vunak states, "There is no superior technique in martial arts, only superior training methods."

From ’86 to ’91 Vunak was contracted by the U.S. military to teach hand-to-hand combat to the Navy SEALs. Since then he has also helped train the FBI, the DEA, and more than 50 U.S. police departments.

May 2009 Rob Eis gets certified as a PFS
Edged Weapons Defensive Tactics Instructor
I was fortunate to spend two days of nonstop action in San Jose, California with Navy Seal Team Six Instructor Paul Vunak as he took me through the Navy Seal Knife Fighting Curriculum. I learned the exact same course taught to Special Operations soldiers, the U.S. Navy Seal Team Six, FBI, CIA, DEA and more than 13 other government agencies.

Sifu Paul Vunak exposed many myths around edged weapons defense and shared with me the most comprehensive course relying on the highest level of military training technology to date. I was taught such things as:

• Advanced slash proof secrets of safe knife fighting tactics
• How to avoid getting carved up like a roast
• The three criteria of becoming an edged weapons expert
• Three self-perfection training exercises passed down by Kali masters
• How to gain a 95% advantage in an edged weapon altercation


FREE MUSIC
FOR UMA STUDENTS

Unbridled Martial Arts supports its locals and produces an incredible mix of workout tunes! Twenty-four bands and over 80 mins' worth of music! Many local Northwest Washington bands contributed as well as some local B'ham favorites!

Click here to see & listen to the contents of Volume 1.

For those making fitness part of their New Year’s resolution, here’s a helpful section when looking for a Martial Arts school.
 "Tips on Choosing a Martial Arts School" <click here>

You will see on the UMA Resource page a list of many different schools available to choose from in Bellingham, WA.

Click here to view a 29-page consumer report penned by another school in Bellingham.

The aforementioned report certainly has some useful and insightful information in it. It’s worth a read if you have the time. Not really sure what consumer tips organization the “Martial Arts Professionals Standards Group” is and how one gets selected to become an author for them. A fair amount of the report is structured to point you in only one direction so I can’t say it is fully unbiased.

A few amusing/absurd points and pieces of cautionary advice that I can’t help but highlight are:

  • The author recommends you ask the instructor of a school you are investigating if he has any “Outlaw Biker Gang affiliations.”
    C’mon. Is this comical or is this for real? Are there honestly Hell's Angels dojos out there? I am dying for a prospective student to ask me if I’m an outlaw. I’ll try not to chuckle, at first. Out of the more pertinent questions to ask an instructor I’m not sure if this question would make my Top Twenty list.
  • Under the topic of antiquated training practices, “crotch power” is brought up. Again, c’mon.
    Yes, there is an ancient Chinese Daoist Qigong exercise called "Tie Dang Gong" (Iron Crotch Qigong) where men lift objects tied to their privates. Strange, but true. However I highly doubt any reputable schools in this town are actually offering instruction in this or making this a class requirement. So, as far as giving relevant tips –not really worth mentioning, and hardly something to be concerned with when shopping around for a school.
  • The report declares, “Martial Arts school owners always price their programs what they think they are worth. Always!” I’d almost agree with this and have to stipulate that businessmen/school owners always price their programs what they think they are worth. To me, it is odd when success and worth are defined only in monetary terms.
    As claimed in the report, school owners with programs that aren’t expensive enough are probably going broke. Well, I’m happy to say our school has been going non-stop since 2003, and I’m nowhere near poverty and I’ll never grow tired of teaching. In terms of upgrading, equipment is continually added in to our facility. I just so happen to learn from world-renowned teachers locally, nationally, & internationally. In my studies and travels, I don’t require or expect my students to support my own personal education.
    I think good role models are those that represent service and sacrifice and don’t simply hold their own skills on a pedestal.

As it’s been explained on the FAQ page of this site, if you truly value something wouldn’t you want to share it with everyone, and not only to those that can afford it?



How can that be?
Sure, there are some M.M.A. schools around but are they non-commercial? Do they teach without compromising the lethalness of their arts to meet children’s needs?
Sure, there may be a school that is not commercially driven but does it service only adults and teens over 16 yrs old? Does it teach a style based or reality based?
What makes UMA a “non commercial” school?

Read the following document in PDF format if you’d like to know the answers and more…

SCHOOL GIFT CERTIFICATE

 

Purchase a gift certificate on-line, or directly from the instructor.

On-line purchases can be conveniently made via PayPal. If you didn’t already know, Paypal protects your financial information with industry-leading security & fraud prevention systems. When you use PayPal, your financial information is not shared with the recipient. Once your payment is complete, you will be emailed a receipt of the transaction.

Certificate entitles the recipient to unlimited Tues, Wed, & Thurs classes within a single calendar month.
Certificates must be redeemed within 3 months from the date issued.
When purchasing on-line, the gift certificate will be mailed US Postal Service.

THE SHOCKNIFE™


Unbridled Martial Arts uses the the best training tool technology has to offer -the Shocknife™.

For those who wish to elevate their training to the highest level.

More info: click here

With up to 7,500 volts but less than 1 milliamp, the Shocknife™ provides our knife defense classes with realistic experience against edged weapons.

Rob Eis is a certified Shocknife™ Safety Monitor.


6 Minute video on how to wrap your hands.



New, designer UMA clothing.
Click here to see our full Products Page.
Includes exclusive training items, protective gear, weapons & equipment.

  Insider Tips Page

New page gives various information on such things as: Personal Protection Items, Personal Safety, Health Tips, Strength Training, and Combat Conditioning Equipment.

Give it a look by clicking here.


You may see these “Free workshop” signs such as this one in storefront windows of business & restaurants.


For the often unsung resources for child safety, <click here>

 

 


Some honest facts to factor into dropout statistics from businesses in the fitness & martial arts industry.


Some schools highly pride themselves on the meager amount of new people who abandon ship. What they neglect to point out is that they most likely have very long-term contracts and very high rates. These two characteristics can dramatically reduce the likelihood of a student dropping out, even when the instruction, class material, or overall learning experience is not satisfying or stimulating to the student. Take, for example, a situation when someone, after 2 months, decides to quit at martial arts school that requires a 1-year enrollment contract. That person is still paying for the next 10 months of their 1-year contract, and since they're still on the books, does the school factor them in to their statistics as not having dropped out? Furthermore, don’t costly obligated dues more often than not induce people to continue? I know of several people who have joined pricey schools, didn’t like the lessons, yet kept going because they were trapped. “If I don’t go this month, that’s going to be another $100 down the drain.”

Wouldn’t it be a stronger sign if people continued to train at a school with low rates, no contractual obligations, and the school didn’t automatically extract money from members' bank account?

In his article entitled “Budo & Business: Dispelling A Myth . . .” Gary Gabelhouse, Chairman and CEO of Fairfield Research, Inc.1 and Associate Martial Arts Business Editor of The FightingArts.com 2, states “In our studies of martial artists, only 20% of those who had trained in martial arts are still training 3. Basically, you have a high churn rate, regardless of the quality of the instruction.”

In a 1,000 person survey it was discovered half of all people who start exercise programs quit by six months 4. Likewise, research shows that half of the people who make positive resolutions at the New Year have given up on them by the end of June 5.

It is understood a fair amount of beginners will inevitably drop out. Of course this is not welcomed or embraced, it's just a fact. At UMA every student is taught as though they were in it for the long haul. When investigating a dropout rate at a prospective school it can be far more revealing to find out what amount of their long-term students have abruptly exited. If a senior student has worked through many years of rigorous training what would make them leave the training environment? Rather than focus on the number of newcomers that leave, why not ask if there has ever been a “mass exodus” of employees or advanced students. If so, that might throw up a red flag and say something about the nature of the school operator.

1.Fairfield Research, Inc is a marketing research and consulting firm in the entertainment media and technology industry.
 2.FightingArts.Com is a cyber community and network of traditional martial artists, historians, and writers dedicated to the promotion and understanding of their arts through the medium of the Internet.
 3. Random survey of 10,000 adults stratified by age, gender, and census area.
 4.Berardi, J.M, PhD. (2004). Long Haul Training: An Interview with Gary Homann.
 5.“Auld Lang Syne: Success predictors, change processes, and self-reported outcomes of New Year's resolvers and nonresolvers”, by John C. Norcross, Marci S. Mrykalo, Matthew D. Blagys , University of Scranton. Journal of Clinical Psychology, Volume 58, Issue 4 (2002). John Norcross is a co-author of Changing For Good.

The Out of the Darkness Overnight

Unbridled Martial Arts helped sponsor Felicia Molano in the benefit walk “The Out of the Darkness Overnight” hosted by The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). The AFSP is the leading non-profit organization exclusively dedicated to understanding and preventing suicide through research and education, and to reaching out to people with mood disorders and those impacted by suicide.

The night of June 21st Felicia covered a 20-mile course through Seattle between 7pm and 1am, finishing hours before the closing ceremonies. The proceeds she collected will benefit the AFSP’s continued research, education and awareness programs.
We applaud your commitment, Felicia!
Of the 44 million Americans who suffer from a mental health disorder, only a third receive treatment, citing lack of insurance and cost as leading factors. For more info about The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention or to make a donation, <click here>.
 

Ms. Molano is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor & Chemical Dependency Professional Trainee for the Se>Eye>Chen To>Kw (Youth Home) Lummi C.A.R.E. Program.


In July 2007 UMA student Keith Bolling visited Peru for three weeks.
 While there he hiked the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, visited the Virgin Del Carmin Festival, traveled into the Amazon Jungle and enjoyed the city of Cusco.

Keith is an accomplished graphic designer who has been working in the field for over 8 years.
He is a professional photographer and his latest work has captured Peru’s breathtaking scenery and showcased its vibrant inhabitants.

A week after Keith’s departure an 8.0 magnitude earthquake struck the coast, taking the lives of over 500 people and leaving tens of thousands homeless. Latest numbers indicate there are 35,568 families directly affected and more than 56,000 houses were destroyed by the quake and powerful aftershocks.

 

Keith has recently put some of his beautiful prints for sale with 40% going to Peru’s earthquake relief efforts. (www.PrintsForCharity.com)



To view various slideshows, <click here>
Please pass on this information to others who appreciate fine art prints.

LOCAL Mixed Martial Arts competitions

With the advent of more and more No-Holds-Barred competitions on television I get more and more inquiries from people saying they want to be an MMA fighter, yet they do not know of any local competition sites, they do not train anywhere, or they do not have a consistent training regimen. Below I have listed a few venues to explore for those interested.

CANADA
In Burnaby, British Columbia, there is the “Western Canada Challenge.” It hosts a variety of martial arts competitions from stand-up fighting to ground-fighting: SKIL Forms and Point Fighting, WKC (Face and No-Face Contact) and SKIL Continuous Fighting, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Freestyle Grappling, Modified Pankration and Filipino Stick Fighting.
Further information can be obtained at www.wcmac.ca.

SKAGIT COUNTY
Kalahi Martial Arts Academy hosts Friday night fights in Mt. Vernon with 150 max capacity. The school promotes a good sensibility of competition along with a positive representation of mixed martial arts. All competitors get custom "Fighter" T-shirts and a small honorarium for their participation
Web: www.kalahimartialarts.com / www.myspace.com/skagitmma
(1320 Riverside Dr. Suite G Mount Vernon, WA 98273). Instructor: Lou Faralan

SNOHOMISH COUNTY
Charlie's Combat Club -2811 Wetmore Ave., Everett, WA 98201. The owner hosts N.H.B. fight events at Edmonds Community College. More info can be found here: www.axfighting.com. The competitions consist of MMA, Kickboxing, and Muay Thai. MMA is 3 x 3 min rounds, Kickboxing is 3 x 1.5 min rounds, and Muay Thai is 3 x 2 min rounds. Title fights are 5 rounds and all fights are in a ring.

Those interested in fighting should contact Chaz@Lockflow.com and there is no cost to competitors. Charlie's Combat also has a website called: www.Lockflow.com. They occasionally host Submission Wresting Tournaments at Pacific Northwest Karate Center -1600 Kentucky St B-4 in Bellingham.

KING COUNTY
Local Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and submission tournaments organized by Liberty Events and Promotions, LLC based in Seattle. (further info: click here)

EASTERN WASHINGTON
Fightforce.tv matches amateur fighters for shows as nearby as Spokane, WA, and as far as Butte, Montana. Occasionally they are in need of first-time fighters. Per their promoter, all their fighters receive gloves, fight shorts, products from their sponsors, and medical coverage.
For more info contact Bryan Deats 1-406-570-0758. (gladiatorcombat@hotmail.com)

OREGON
The Gathering of Champions: Amateur Kick-boxing & Mixed Martial Arts Tournament.
Open to all amateur fighters with kickboxing and/or mixed martial arts experience. Both categories include 8 different weight classes. The tournament will take place on four different days, one day a month, with the fourth month holding the championship.
Location: 4149 South Pacific Hwy, #H1, Medford, Oregon 97504. (541) 535-5340. $35.00 entry fee.
Awards: Trophies and/or medallions for all weight classes.
Contact: Grandmaster Donny Omega (omegaforce@clearwire.net)
Rules and regulations can be obtained at http://omegaforce.clearwire.net/events.htm

OTHER LOCAL VENUES
Local casinos put on shows periodically. Check in with the following:
Silver Reef Casino
Nooksack Casino
 Swinomish Casino
Muckleshoot Casino
Emerald Queen Casino
Tulalip Casino

OTHER RESOURCES
A good place to find upcoming fight events to compete at in the Pacific Northwest is the NW FightScene Magazine's website.
For strictly Judo Tournaments: Northwest Judo Yudanshakai.

Our school:
Students at Unbridled Martial Arts receive training designed for sport fighting and street self-defense; the curriculum shows how to modify techniques to succeed in both. Prospective students ask me, “Do you have sparring?” & “Will your training environment prepare me for competition?” Yes & yes. Sparring is done at the intensity level partners agree upon. Since we are currently at a ½ week schedule, an MMA athlete would need to train independently when class is not in session.

Advice:
Know the rules inside & out. Not all events that bill themselves as MMA fights will have the same regulations. Some will allow certain techniques while others may prohibit or modify them.
The following food for thought might not matter to those who are simply out to experience fighting and competition and test themselves. Regardless, here is a bit of advice to fighters. Know where your hard work and/or financial dollars are going.
If you are paying a competitor’s fee, you might like to find out whether the money goes toward future events & fellow competitors or is merely lining the pockets of a promoter who has had no involvement in your training.
If you are competing, do you understand that you may end up signing away licensing for your image? Meaning, weeks, months, or years from now broadcasts or DVDs of the event may be produced and sold and you will not have any creative input or receive any form of residual payment.


UMA students are invited to attend the first officially sanctioned mixed martial arts fight card in California, which legalized the sport in Dec`05!

The former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) middleweight king Frank Shamrock (20-7-1) collides with undefeated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt Cesar Gracie (14-0) in a showdown at San Jose, California’s HP Pavilion on Friday, March 10th. Doors open at 5 PM PST and the first preliminary bout will begin at 6 PM.

Students should contact Instructor Rob Eis for ticket info. Prices start at $30.

RESULTS: Friday's MMA event outsold typical boxing matches at the HP Pavilion.


Frank Shamrock stopped Cesar Gracie in 21 seconds in front the largest audience of a Mixed Martial Arts event to-date!!
A record breaking 18,265 people filled the Pavilion.

<click on above image for CBS Ch.5 News story & video>
"The rules of boxing say you have to stand there and get punched in the head until you fall down. That's a barbaric sport," Shamrock said.
"We've got a sport with honor, respect. If you get caught in a hold, and you think you're done, you tap out."


The Skydive Center in Abbotsford, Canada graciously provides a discount onTandem Free Falls for all UMA members.
Click Here to see UMA Membership benefits for details.


Now released on DVD
Ong-Bak: The Thai Warrior
2003, Rated R, 108 Minutes, Magnolia Pictures

 
What a relief to see a performance with no boring “wire-fu” or repetitive CGI effects.
I purchased this on DVD while in Bangkok the summer of 2004 and was impressed as hell when I got back to the states to watch it. Ong-Bak is 100% real stunts --no strings or computer effects.
Tony Jaa, feted as the next Jackie Chan, will have your sympathetic body reactions jerking you back and forth in your seats.

 

"Possibly the best martial arts movie ever." - Film Threat
(click here to read the review)

Click here to visit the official Ong-Bak movie website

 
You can rent this two-disc DVD at your local “Crazy Mike's Video” store, 1066 Lakeway Dr. (the Cost Cutter Center) in Bellingham, WA for only $2.16. ( .88 cents on Tuesdays!! )

This wonderful and comprehensive documentary explores the exciting world of Muay Thai and is highly worth checking out.

It covers many aspects of the powerful sport from training to techniques, and is filled with sensational clips from actual competitions. It's hosted by legendary Muay Thai master Kruu Yodthong Senanan (a.k.a. Kruu Tui), a Muay Thai boxing teacher and head of Sitryodthong and Payak Arun Boxing Camp. Disc one features "Fist Fighting" and "Techniques To K.O." Disc two features "The Heritage Of Thai Boxing And Its Development".

 
When I was in Thailand for the first time I heard talk of a man dressed as a woman and fighting in Muay Thai competitions. The stories were fact. Here is the truth behind the talk, vibrantly displayed on film.

Beautiful Boxer is based on the true story of how Thailand’s famous transvestite kickboxer, Parinya Charoenphol (Nong Toom) set out to master the lethal sport of Muay Thai to earn a living, and later pay for a sex change operation in 1999.
Prior to 1998, Toom's record was 20 wins and 2 losses. She is now a model and actress based in Bangkok.

Toom is admired by many for his courage and despised by others who think he tarnished the “masculine” image of Thai Kickboxing.
Beyond Beautiful Boxer's trans-gendered theme, the movie demonstrates with great dignity how single-minded determination and courage can enable a person to achieve what their heart truly desires.

The cinematography is extraordinary. It captures the lush scenery surrounding the people portrayed in the movie. Not only is the true-life movie heartfelt and visually stunning, it accurately depicts Muay Thai training camps in Thailand. It shows the violence and the beauty of the sport, as well as the living conditions and culture of the country.

"Rich with insight and cinematic style and beauty, the film tells a uniquely moving and inspiring story." -- Paula Nechak, Seattle Post-Intelligencer


You can find this movie at Film is Truth 24 Times a Second, 211 W. Holly Street.
< click here for Mapquest directions >
Film is Truth is a locally owned and operated VHS & DVD rental store in Bellingham, WA that specializes in foreign films, independent movies, arthouse films, and documentaries.



UMA presents: “The Escrima Training Companion DVD, Volume 1.”

 
Volume 1 will contain a hearty dosage of Double & Single Stick applications at long and short range. It will have interactive DVD menus and accompanying outlined syllabus liner-notes. A bonus feature will include Tactical Baton applications, too.


 
Utilizing his five year experience in Broadcast Television, his work on live productions with Comcast TV, and his filmmaking Degree from Evergreen State, UMA Instructor Rob Eis attests that, “this DVD will prove to be a unique and highly-polished production. It will elevate the practice of those new to the game and veteran Escrimadors alike, as it elevates the standard in professional Martial Arts training videos.” This DVD will only be available to UMA students actively enrolled in the Escrima program. It will also be available in VHS format.

 



Students,

 
Looking to build your Martial Arts library? Need something new to read?
Feed your brain while giving your body it’s duly needed downtime.
Relax, enjoy, and allow some of the following titles from the UMA Recommended Reading List to provide you with an outlet (and an inlet) to your thoughts about martial arts…

 

Click on the bookcase.
If you want more info on a particular title from the list, or if there’s a certain M.A. topic you’re curious to read about, ask the instructor after class.

 



Even if you've never imagined having to use a knife for self-defense purposes, the knife training drills in our Weapons Training Class are tremendously helpful in strengthening such things as coordination, reflexes, and depth perception –just a few key ingredients needed in boxing & kickboxing.

For those interested in adding knife training to your martial arts repertoire, click here for insight into our training methodology and further reasons for practicing with a knife.

Massage

Massage is the most effective therapy for releasing muscle tension and restoring balance to the musculoskeletal system.

Click here for information on adding Massage to Martial Arts training

Sol Rising Massage Therapy now treats students of
Unbridled Martial Arts!

Jonna Oliveres-Chang, co-owner of Sol Rising Massage, has begun offering the tremendous healing benefits of massage therapy to students of Unbridled Martial Arts. Her valuable skills relieve stress, decrease muscle tension & pain, improve joint flexibility, stimulate blood & lymph circulation, strengthen the immune system, help injures heal faster, and aid in injury prevention.

Jonna is a nationally certified licensed massage practitioner and member of the American Massage Therapy Association. She has extensive knowledge of anatomy, physiology and massage techniques.

Swedish or Deep Tissue massage for relaxation or injury treatment, UMA students receive the following discounted rate:
$40 for 1 hour massage
In her services, Jonna also offers Aromatherapy Massage, Hot Stone Massage, & CranioSacral Therapy.
Sol Rising Massage Therapy is conveniently located 1 block south from our studio:
301 W. Holly St. Suite M-3, Bellingham, WA 98225 (located in the Bay Street Village)

click here for Mapquest directions

For appointments: (360)820-0999
oliveres@hotmail.com

Inform the instructor when making an appointment so that your discounted rate can be applied.



Big props go out to Debi Purcell:
UMA student Kari Neumeyer w/ Debi Purcell
-without a doubt, one of the coolest, down-to-earth world-renowned fighters out there!
By visiting Fightergirls.com & DebiPurcell.com you can learn about Debi’s illustrious career and further educate yourself on women impacting & evolving the sport of MMA.

 



Sponsored fighters:
Debi Purcell
Roxanne Modafferi
Jessica Penne

Also check out Debi’s design company that sells vintage 1940 and 1950 aprons called Hollywood aprons by PurPar.


In the news
Local newspaper interviews student in adaptive karate program taught by UMA instructor. Read the article by clicking here.

 
For information on the Max Higbee Recreational Center, click image above for Public Service Announcement..

Information on Rob's role at the Max Higbee Recreational Center.
(click here and here)

Our State Capital’s newspaper, The Olympian, runs the story covering Rob's account of conditions on Phi Phi Island 6-months after Tsunami devastation.
Current issue of RADAR magazine (Sept/Oct.2005) contains 8 pg. article on Phi Phi Island.


BANGKOK -- Six months after a tsunami devastated Southeast Asia, Bellingham martial arts instructor Rob Eis joined reconstruction efforts on Phi Phi Island.

Unbridled Martial Arts' Eis, 34, trained for five days at the Fairtex Thai boxing camp outside of Bangkok before visiting Koh Phi Phi the week of June 20.

Phi Phi Island suffered some of the worst damage in Thailand. All but eight of the bungalows at the island's largest hotel were wiped out on Dec. 26 when waves attacked a narrow isthmus from both sides. The bodies of 750 Thais and internationals were recovered on Phi Phi Island. About 1,000 are missing.

Once a mecca for backpackers, Phi Phi Island was the setting for the Leonardo DiCaprio film "The Beach." Although many hotels and restaurants have reopened since the tsunami, tourism on the island is down 90 percent.

A grass roots organization called Hi (Help International) Phi Phi has teamed up with local business owners to restore the island and encourage travelers to return.

Eis worked with a Hi Phi Phi group of American, English, Irish and Australian citizens to prepare Jong's Guesthouse for its reopening last week. In December, the waves crashed through the hotel, tearing ground floor doors in half. Volunteers cleaned sand and rubble from the ground floor, painted the exterior and designed a brick wall for the front patio.

Restoration efforts on the island have been funded by private donation and volunteer time, no international donations have been used and the Thai government is still deciding how to allocate money.


What remains of a Phi Phi Island Cabana bungalow --the bathroom.

Eis digging a trench for a brick wall in front of Jong's Guesthouse.

Volunteers paint exterior two days before official reopening of Jong's Guesthouse.

Eis with Fairtex trainer "Olympic" Porponrad.

Fairtex Camp in Thailand.


June 2005 Unbridled Martial Arts UMA instructor Rob Eis trained in the powerful skills and intense conditioning of authentic Muay Thai (Thai Boxing) at the world famous Fairtex Training Camp in Bangplee, Thailand.

The Fairtex Camp has been in existence since 1975, and the Fairtex team of elite personal trainers give rigorous & professional Muay Thai training from 7 in the morning to 7 at night.


Click here to see about the Instructor's past studies in Thailand


October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. In 2004 Lummi Victims of Crime (LVOC) hosted a multitude of events to educate and unite the community.

Instructor Rob Eis, in association with Elite Tactical Systems™, devoted his expertise in teaching a 2 hr Self-Defense class for the Lummi Victims of Crime. Lessons were not “classical” martial art techniques that take weeks upon months to perfect. Lessons focused on understanding the nature of violence, the practical maneuvers involved in overcoming real-life physical conflicts, and above all else, the class emphasized the intelligent choices necessary to protect one’s body, mind, and spirit from harmful acts.
The class was free to the public.
Wednesday, October 13 & 27, 2004
from 4:30 – 6:30pm
at the Lummi Fitness Center.


2616 Kwina Road
Bellingham, WA 98226
next to Lummi Health Clinic
Ages 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian.

For over 19 years LVOC has served Lummi Nation and victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse/neglect, homicide, assault, elder abuse and gang violence. The LVOC program provides emergency assistance, counseling, crisis intervention, transportation, legal assistance, support groups, assistance obtaining medical care, violence prevention education for schools and the community, and in the winter of 2003 it opened a domestic violence women’s shelter called Ne-Alis Tokw.

Questions for the LVOC Program and the Domestic Violence Awareness Month campaign please contact Event Coordinator Aaren McBride at (360) 384-2285.

Instructor Rob Eis earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Evergreen State in Olympia, WA and completed his academic studies in relevant subjects of human behavior such as Sociology and Psychology.


Congratulations to Euphrates Greene
On April 29th Euphrates placed 2nd in the Men's Middleweight novice division (171-185 lbs.) of a submission-only tournament in Bellingham, WA sponsored by Lockflow.

WELL DONE, EUPHRATES!!!
* Flyer picture used with permission from Charlie Pearson..

Congratulations go out to our very own Jennifer Valadez!!

Jennifer won the Northern Gold’s Classic Bodybuilding* Women’s Open Middleweight Division held at the Pantages Theatre August 28th in Tacoma. She then went on to win the Women’s overall Champion!!

WELL DESERVED, JENNIFER!!!

* The NPC Weider Northern Gold’s Classic Bodybuilding, Fitness & Figure Championships is a National Qualifier. The top two men and women in each open bodybuilding class qualify for the N.P.C. Nationals and/or U.S.A. Championships.

One-Year Anniversary from 2004


In July 2004, Unbridled Martial Arts celebrated its first anniversary with a special demonstration & Open House.
The Instructor, Rob Eis, and his students illustrated how basic kickboxing skills are used for self-defense, stress reduction, improved coordination, enhanced mental awareness, and for a vigorous workout.
The special event was educational and informative, and it welcomed members of the public and students' friends & family to see their training in action. Spectators not only watched, they joined in basic activities that allowed them to experience the process of learning and doing Martial Arts, too.

Thank you to everyone that attended and made the event a big success!

December 2009 - February 2010

If it snows this winter...
Remember: UMA will never be closed due to snow.

As long as you can make it safely we'll see ya in class.


SEARCHING TO GIVE A SPECIAL GIFT THIS CHRISTMAS?

Click here to go to Products webpage to purchase Gift Certificate

Purchase holiday gift certificates on-line, or directly from the instructor.
Price: $30.00 (+.37 cents postage)
Certificate entitles the recipient to unlimited Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday classes for the month.
Certificates must be redeemed by March 1st 2010.
When purchasing on-line, the gift certificate will be mailed US Postal.


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Phone: (360) 676-9909
Email: info@unbridledmartialarts.com