Joel Williams

I am a husband, father, and health science professor. I've had the honor of serving Global Martial Arts University as Content Director since 2019. GMAU is the industry leader in online martial arts training. Welcome to the family!

Beginner Bo (Staff) Striking Combinations Explained

The bo staff is one of the most versatile traditional weapons—but for beginners, it can feel overwhelming at first. Where do you start? The answer: simple striking patterns. Instead of memorizing dozens of techniques, focus on a few core patterns that build coordination, control, and flow. These patterns act as the building blocks for everything that comes later in your training.

The Role of Repetition in Building Muscle Memory

Muscle Memory

Repetition is one of the most fundamental principles in martial arts training. Whether practicing strikes, throws, or defensive movements, the goal is to perform techniques so often that they become automatic. This process is commonly referred to as building muscle memory. Let’s dig into this concept a little more – Read on…

Shadowboxing Variations for All Martial Arts Styles

Shadowboxing is one of the most versatile training tools in martial arts. It requires no equipment, can be done anywhere, and allows practitioners to develop technique, timing, and movement without a partner. While commonly associated with striking sports, shadowboxing can benefit athletes from nearly every martial arts style. This blog post highlights different types of shadowboxing.

How to Train Martial Arts Techniques When You’re Short on Time

One of the biggest challenges martial artists face is finding enough time to train. Between work, school, and family responsibilities, long training sessions aren’t always realistic. The good news is that effective training doesn’t require hours in the gym. With a focused approach, even short sessions can produce meaningful improvements in technique, speed, and timing. This blog post has tips for maximizing your training time.