My dear friend the legendary Robert K. Koga, founder of the Koga Institute, asked me to share KaizenTao with his Senior Defensive Tactics trainers.

Due to Koga Sensei’s rich background in Judo, he’d taught the traditional Japanese method of break-falling at his Institute. This entailed slapping the ground with arms at 45 degrees at impact to disperse and dissipate the force of the fall. A time and tested method on a tatami or dojo mat, but not as easily done on hard pavement with 30+ lbs service belt and gear. As the saying goes: Nothing hits harder than the ground.

Once Koga Sensei saw how my LEO, MIL and civilians engaged the ground, he asked me to share our training progressions with his senior level defensive tactics trainers. I was going to teach a Ground Engagement class for his Colorado students with an emphasis on making the body the mat and accepting the ground as hard. This in order to keep the arms free and relaxed to draw weapons and return fire mid-roll if need be.

Koga Sensei was extremely fond of his Colorado trainers and wanted our first collaboration together to be in there for his most dedicated and loyal students.

Sadly, we had to cancel the training due to a horrific mass shooting the night before at a midnight screening of the Batman movie, The Dark Knight Rises.

As Sept. 8 marks the six years anniversary of Robert K. Koga Sensei’s passing, I wanted to share this with his Colorado students and all who loved, honored and appreciated this great man. Stay safe out there!

Robert Kei Koga Sensei

*Disclaimer*
Do not attempt without professional supervision

Pro tip:
1. Hold a medium size Swiss-ball/Fitball with one arm and start rolling on a hard surface from a kneeling position.
2. Post one hand on the ground and keep the other lightly hugging the ball at all time.
3. Gently and audibly release the air from your lungs before, during and after the roll.
4. Let your head move as needed and be mindful not to be premature, delayed or excessive with your chin tuck.
5. Let the head move freely and naturally with the spine.
6. Only roll from standing once you’re kneeling rolls are silent.