Description
Joint locks are some of the most versatile techniques found in martial art curriculums. They can be used to submit opponents, control rowdy people, or injure attackers, making them ideal for various self-defense and violent encounters, and a must for anyone working in law enforcement or security. Unfortunately, they can also be some of the most difficult techniques to learn and master. That is until now. The Lock On: Joint Locking Essentials series is a comprehensive guide to joint locks and one of the most complete programs available for practical joint locking information. In this original Aiki Productions DVD series, Hapkido and Self-defense instructor Alain Burrese presents detailed instruction on the mechanics of each lock, proper execution, and various applications to enable the viewer to learn the essentials of applying joint locks in any situation. This program is a must for every serious student of martial arts and self-defense. Volume 1: Wrist Locks includes detailed instruction on a variety of wrist locks, including: an explanation of the wrist, outer wrist lock, inner wrist lock, reverse handshake, S locks, faucet locks, and more. If you want to take your joint locking ability to the next level, you must have Lock On: Joint Locking Essentials Volume 1: Wrist Locks. Alain Burrese's martial art and self-defense career started in 1982, and includes living and training in South Korea where he continues to return and train on a regular basis. He teaches Self-defense, Safety, and Martial Art programs around the country and his previous works include Hard-Won Wisdom From the School of Hard Knocks, Hapkido Hoshinsul, and Streetfighting Essentials.
Customer Reviews:
Yes! Indispensable........2007-05-26
OK, all of us have done it! We've purchased DVDs that seem to offer clear insight and instruction regarding specific techniques used in our forms of martial arts. Yet, how many of us have been disappointed to find that the not-so-clear presentations have been poorly illustrated and sequenced?
Alain Burrese brings to this DVD an entirely different style of presentation that allows the viewer to see (almost feel) the techniques being illustrated. Burrese presents his selection of joint locks within the framework of grounded martial arts practices, so the techniques are never simply isolated movements. Yet, his presentation also allows one to see the details of hand placement, footwork, body positioning, etc. that provide the real power for the execution of these techniques.
Burrese has a strong sense of presence in front of the camera, and this dramatically improves the quality of his instruction. Not only are the wrist locks clearly explained and illustrated, but they are also reinforced by Burrese's teaching style, which always includes a summary of what he presents. The camera moves in for close details of each technique after showing the viewer an overall view. Consequently, Burrese never forgets to emphasize that the techniques are rooted firmed in martial arts practices. Yet, Burrese goes further by showing the extreme power of each technique, something that many instructors in dojos are not willing to demonstrate.
These techniques are, indeed, powerful tools and should be practiced carefully with a partner. They are intended for close, confrontational situations, which are usually the real-life situations where defense is needed. Nothing fancy here. Just straightforward techniques that work. I've used some of them before to stop more escalated fight situations, so I know they work. Alain Burrese presents them with the clarity that most instructors cannot.
As I understand it, the "Lock On" series will be comprised of five DVDs, maybe six. If the rest of the series is anything like this one, they will constitute a classic collection for martial artists practicing any form. Furthermore, one should know that Burrese shows these defense practices because they work for anyone, who can maintain the fundamental concepts of martial arts while executing these techniques. I first encountered Alain Buresse's presentations in a DVD entitled "Streetfighting Essentials." I found this to be an invaluable resource, because Burrese was able to bridge the distance between dojo instruction of martial arts and real-life street situations that require quick, spontaneous execution of defense strategies that allow one to survive. With this in mind, I purchased volume I of the "Lock On" series and was pleased to find that Burrese still emphasizes that martial arts practice needs to keep the fighting intent foremost, even after we develop a more philosophical approach to the forms we study.
"Lock On: Joint Locking Essentials Volume 1" is an invaluable instructional DVD for any martial artist. I expect to see many more DVDs by this Hapkido practitioner, simply because he knows what he is doing and knows how to present this knowledge to others clearly through his combination of words and images. This is a professionally produced DVD that I will use for many years. Thank you, Alain, for sharing your skills.
Alain Burrese's dvd series, the next best thing to learning in person!.......2007-04-18
One of the first things that jumped out at me from the onset when I started watching Alain's "Lock On" series of DVD's was the simple yet effective approach that he took in the production and presentation of this series of DVD's. My initial impression was one of being in an actual seminar environment while Alain was teaching instead of merely watching an instructional DVD. You won't find any pointless or ineffective "bells and whistles" with this series; instead what you will find is good quality instruction covering a wide array of joint locking techniques. This particular DVD focuses on wrist locking techniques.
Alain's ability to instruct you on these simple, yet effective wrist locking techniques is the hallmark of a good instructor and it certainly shows in this series. Alain's approach is straightforward and easy to follow as he takes you through each wrist lock numerous times in order to teach you how to execute each technique correctly. Alain takes great care in his teachings to explain to you how some of these techniques although they may appear to be ineffective, can actually be quite effective if applied under the right set of circumstances.
I'm going to take a brief moment here to jump ahead to the end of this DVD where Alain explains the three (3) key elements that need to be present in order for these techniques to be effective. Although each one of these key elements is vitally important in their own right, none of them is exclusive in importance to the others when it comes to applying these wrist locks effectively in a combat or self-defense situation. What you have to remember is that these three (3) key elements have to be combined in order to form a symbiotic entity that is only effective when utilized together in an efficient manner.
These three (3) key elements are as follows:
1. Surprise: If your opponent doesn't know what to expect, he is going to have a more difficult time defending against it. However, if your opponent knows what is coming, he is going to be more readily able to counter it, or avoid it all together.
2. Speed: Executing the techniques shown on this DVD has to be done as fast as possible while still retaining the third key element, which is proper technique. If the technique is executed too slowly, then your opponent will have the opportunity to figure out what you are doing and, as in the case of surprise, be able to counter it or avoid the technique all together.
3. Proper Technique: This should literally be a "no-brainer," but unfortunately that doesn't seem to be the case. I don't know how many times I have personally seen or heard of someone trying to apply a particular technique in a given self-defense type situation when they weren't even executing the technique correctly to begin with. Alain goes to extreme lengths in this series to implore you to practice, practice, and practice, until the techniques he demonstrates become second nature to you where you can execute them correctly without thought or hesitation.
Alain follows the same instructional format for each one of the various wrist locks shown in this DVD. He starts out by explaining some of the finer points of executing each technique followed by various follow up techniques that can be used on your opponent, if it is needed, after the wrist lock has been applied. He then shows several variations of each wrist lock that all are based on the primary wrist lock that was first shown.
Alain takes a very realistic approach to the use of wrist locks and attempts to cover several influencing factors that may or may not come into play while attempting to apply them in a real life situation. I myself watched this DVD on three separate occasions and found something that I had previously missed each time. I have no doubt that were I to watch this DVD again after writing this review that I would find something else that I had previously missed.
One of the many great things that I really enjoy about Alain's teaching style is his, what I like to refer to as, "nuggets of wisdom" that he injects throughout his instruction process. I too use this in my own personal style of teaching and have found that it is very effective teaching technique.
I have a rather large collection of instructional videos that I have accumulate over the years and I can say without reservation that Alain's "Lock On" series is one of the best I have seen so far on the subject of joint techniques. If I were to have only one comment to make on this series, it would be this, "Hurry up and make the rest of them!"
Master Alain Burrese Does it Again!.......2007-03-10
One thing I've personally enjoyed about all of Burrese's body of work is his no-nonsense way of presentation. From Hard Won Wisdom to Hapkido Hoshinsul, From Street Fighting Essentials to the new Lock On Series, Burrese simply knows self defense.
I was excited to receive the evaluation copy of Master Burrese's new Lock On series of Hapkido Instructional DVDs. As usual, there was no let down.
Throughout, Burrese keeps safety in mind. He reminds the viewer that respect for one's training partner is key. Many instructors forget this point, which could cause problems during practice.
Another bonus of Burrese's work is that he packs as much information as possible into one DVD. Unlike other production companies which use fillers like promos for their other products, Burrese and Aiki Productions cram as much knowledge into each DVD as possible. As always, you get the biggest bang for your buck.
The Lock On Series isn't simply for the novice practitioner. Even the seasoned Hapkidoin will find great material here as well as a good reference source. The novice will find clear, precision instruction on basics, controlling and finishing techniques. The expert will find an invaluable reference on fundamental and advanced techniques and tweaks.
When watching Burrese in action, you'll notice his flow and control. Flowing, making a technique fluid and not choppy or hopping around trying to make it work, is essential in Hapkido. Burrese embodies that concept. He emphasizes proper footwork, an oft forgotten key, and whole body technique. He takes time to explain mechanics, a must for Hapkido.
This isnt a simple run-down of locking techniques. This IS a Master Instructor taking the time to show you step-by-step guidance towards mastery.
Kudos to Aiki Productions on clear video and audio quality. Audio quality is often lacking with many manufacturers. Aiki does an excellent job here with that as well as the graphical interface of the DVD.
Melinda Kidder, Owner
Chajonshim Martial Arts Supply
High Quality Reference that Delivers What it Promises.......2007-03-06
With so many martial arts videos and resources out there, the bar has been set pretty high for new material. Alain Burrese sets the standard even higher. This first "Lock On" DVD is a good example of providing a lot of material in a quality manner at a fair price. The DVD runs 87 minutes of solid content.
The "Lock On" project is a very ambitious one. It seems to be designed to focus on Hapkido joint locks without having to get too deep into the striking aspect, the footwork aspect, falls, breathing, finishes and so on. Granted, there has to be some of this to make the locks work out of "isolation" but the 1st video sets a good model.
The DVD is arranged clearly into several chapters, making it very easy to reference and skip around. It starts with a nice exploration of the wrist and some great insight on why wrist locks work the way they do. From there are sections on various locks, including the outer wrist lock, inner wrist lock, overhand outer wrist lock, reverse handshake, standing center lock, s-lock, and the faucet lock.
In each section the lock is explored in a general static sense, with attention paid to the mechanics, then it's shown more dynamically in a variety of situations (like lapel grab, same side wrist grab, etc) with several variations depending on footwork and attacker's intent. Key elements such as footwork, posture, and even finishes are explored to a degree necessary for the technique but not to distraction.
Most of the variations are the old tried and true ones but there were some original ones I really liked as well. There are a few variations I didn't personally care for, such as the jumping locks and the deep crouches, but the mechanics were interesting to see even then. Also, I had never learned the "faucet lock" before but seeing the application of it in the clinch makes me curious about it and I'll try it out on someone soon.
Overall, the production values are very good, with clear photography, good angles and very good verbal descriptions. Attention is paid to more than just the lock, getting into how to shift weight, use the whole body and proper mechanics without getting too abstract and while trying to keep the focus on the locks. The video doesn't pretend to be an "end-all be-all" representation of Hapkido and it sticks closely to its clearly stated goals of exploring wrist locks. There seems to be elements from different Hapkido traditions represented in the variations and this makes it very educational for students of the art.
On a similar note, I like how the material is presented with a stark lack of propaganda that sometimes can be seen in Hapkido videos. He doesn't go overboard in extolling the virtues of the art or in specific lineages and/or purity. The material is presented as its own justification for learning it. I look forward to the second volume and would be interested to see other elements of Hapkido explored in similar ways (e.g. breakfalls, strikes, footwork, etc).
At first glance, people might assume this is "just" a reference for new Hapkido practitioners. This isn't true. The way this DVD is presented makes it a great resource for all levels. For a new HKD student (or even for a student who learns joint locks as part of a Taekwondo Hoshinsool program) this is a nice supplement to classroom instruction on how a lock works and how to do it. For a "new" instructor this provides an excellent resource on how to teach locks and focus on how to "get everything right". For a senior or master instructor, aside from the solid instructional reference, there are enough little variations and ideas to make it worthwhile as well. Best of all, by not being "kwan-specific" it can serve as a great tool for all Hapkido kwans and Hapkido-based arts as well as for those school who use Hapkido or Hapkido elements in their self defense programs (like many TKD schools do).
Overall, I highly recommend this volume for students and instructors alike. The price is fairly average for martial arts videos but it packs a lot more material in than most others do. There is a lot of general reference that is usable by all levels and enough "extra" that will interest seasoned instructors as well.
Description
Lock On: Joint Locking Essentials With Alain Burrese The Comprehensive Guide to Joint Locks Volume 2: Arm Bars & Elbow Locks Joint locks are some of the most versatile techniques found in martial art curriculums. They can be used to submit opponents, control rowdy people, or injure attackers, making them ideal for various self-defense and violent encounters, and a must for anyone working in law enforcement or security. Unfortunately, they can also be some of the most difficult techniques to learn and master. That is until now. The Lock On: Joint Locking Essentials series is a comprehensive guide to joint locks and one of the most complete programs available for practical joint locking information. In this original Aiki Productions DVD series, Hapkido and Self-defense instructor Alain Burrese presents detailed instruction on the mechanics of each lock, proper execution, and various applications to enable the viewer to learn the essentials of applying joint locks in any situation. This program is a must for every serious student of martial arts and self-defense. Volume 2: Arm Bars & Elbow Locks includes detailed instruction on a variety of arm bars and elbow locks including: an explanation of the elbow joint, basic arm bars and variations, arm breaks, armpit clamps, and ground applications. If you want to take your joint locking ability to the next level, you must have Lock On: Joint Locking Essentials Volume 2: Arm Bars and Elbow Locks. Easy access menus. Running length approx: 90 minutes Alain Burrese's martial art and self-defense career started in 1982, and includes living and training in South Korea where he continues to return and train on a regular basis. He teaches Self-defense, Safety, and Martial Art programs around the country and his previous works include Hard-Won Wisdom From the School of Hard Knocks, Hapkido Hoshinsul, and Streetfighting Essentials.
Customer Reviews:
Valuable reading!.......2007-05-26
This is the 2nd of Alain Burrese's "Lock On" series and certainly delivers what it promises. Like volume one, this DVD gives a clear and professional style of presentation in sequential form. The techniques are illustrated well, presented slowly and then quickly, at a distance and in closer detail. Burrese offers the viewer a unique sense of involvement, largely due to his presentation skills, as well as his fine knowledge of techniques. His DVDs are more like workshops than remote illustrations found in most martial arts DVDs. Volume II, as well as volume I, are fine additions to any martial artist's library. I look forward to the remainder of his series, and I understand that volume III is soon to be released. Great buy!
The next best thing to being there.......2007-05-24
This DVD is very nicely done. It is excellently produced, has decent music, good sound, a nice contrast between the white gis and the blue background, and outstanding camera angles so that viewers can easily tell what is going on. Burrese's instructions are clear, straightforward, and precise, making it easy to understand all the important points. The pacing is good too; just the right amount of explanation before each demonstration so that you will know what is going on but not be bored. These demonstrations take place at a variety of speeds from slow to fast so that viewers can get a good flavor of what it might be like to actually perform each technique.
The material is logically organized from simple to complex. It begins by describing the elbow and how to best attack it and then moves on to cover basic arm bars, variations to these basics, arm bars from escort positions (common to law enforcement and security applications), step under arm bars, arm breaks, crossed arms, armpit clamp, and ground fighting. Most importantly, all the important principles that make these techniques succeed are clearly explained so that you can apply them to any lock in any martial art, not only those demonstrated here. These include such things as getting off line, blocking, trapping, spinning, striking, using your whole body weight, taking an opponent's energy, and other factors that can help stop an opponent's follow-on technique(s) while simultaneously facilitating your ability to execute the techniques successfully. Viewers will understand the angle, direction, distance, and proper finish of each application well enough to be able to troubleshoot the techniques when you practice them with a partner.
While most practitioners think of arm bars as defensive techniques, I really like how these applications are demonstrated both defensively and offensively. They are shown from a variety of starting positions including from grabs and punches. The add-ons such as kicks, punches, using "found" objects like parked cars or walls, and finishing techniques add a nice progression to apply appropriate levels of force for controlling an opponent, causing pain, or damaging an adversary.
Burrese moves well, explains clearly, demonstrates effectively, and ensures that viewers truly understand the materials. While no DVD is a substitute for hands-on instruction, this one is so good that it's the next best thing to being there. This is solid, practical instruction. I am confident that the rest of the series is equally outstanding as well. Highly recommended!
Lawrence Kane
Author of Martial Arts Instruction and Surviving Armed Assaults; co-author of The Way of Kata and The Way to Black Belt
Alain Burrese's dvd series, the next best thing to learning in person!.......2007-04-18
One of the first things that jumped out at me from the onset when I started watching Alain's "Lock On" series of DVD's was the simple yet effective approach that he took in the production and presentation of this series of DVD's. My initial impression was one of being in an actual seminar environment while Alain was teaching instead of merely watching an instructional DVD. You won't find any pointless or ineffective "bells and whistles" with this series; instead what you will find is good quality instruction covering a wide array of joint locking techniques. This particular DVD focuses on arm bars and elbow locking techniques.
Alain's ability to instruct you on these simple, yet effective arm bars and elbow locking techniques is the hallmark of a good instructor and it certainly shows in this series. Alain's approach is straightforward and easy to follow as he takes you through each arm bar and elbow lock numerous times in order to teach you how to execute each technique correctly. Alain takes great care in his teachings to explain to you how some of these techniques, although they may appear to be ineffective, can actually be quite effective if applied under the right set of circumstances.
I'm going to take a brief moment here to jump ahead to the end of this DVD where Alain explains the three (3) key elements that need to be present in order for these techniques to be effective. Although each one of these key elements is vitally important in their own right, none of them is exclusive in importance to the others when it comes to applying these arm bars and elbow locks effectively in a combat or self-defense situation. What you have to remember is that these three (3) key elements have to be combined in order to form a symbiotic entity that is only effective when utilized together in an efficient manner.
These three (3) key elements are as follows:
1. Surprise: If your opponent doesn't know what to expect, he is going to have a more difficult time defending against it. However, if your opponent knows what is coming, he is going to be more readily able to counter it, or avoid it all together.
2. Speed: Executing the techniques shown on this DVD has to be done as fast as possible while still retaining the third key element, which is proper technique. If the technique is executed too slowly, then your opponent will have the opportunity to figure out what you are doing and, as in the case of surprise, be able to counter it or avoid the technique all together.
3. Proper Technique: This should literally be a "no-brainer," but unfortunately that doesn't seem to be the case. I don't know how many times I have personally seen or heard of someone trying to apply a particular technique in a given self-defense type situation when they weren't even executing the technique correctly to begin with. Alain goes to extreme lengths in this series to implore you to practice, practice, and practice, until the techniques he demonstrates become second nature to you where you can execute them correctly without thought or hesitation.
Alain follows the same instructional format for each one of the various arm bars and elbow locks shown in this DVD. He starts out by explaining some of the finer points of executing each technique followed by various follow up techniques that can be used on your opponent, if it is needed, after the arm bar or elbow lock has been applied. He then shows several variations of each arm bar or elbow lock that all are based on the primary techniques that were first shown.
Alain takes a very realistic approach to the use of arm bars and elbow locks and attempts to cover several influencing factors that may or may not come into play while attempting to apply them in a real life situation. I myself watched this DVD on three separate occasions and found something that I had previously missed each time. I have no doubt that were I to watch this DVD again after writing this review that I would find something else that I had previously missed.
One of the many great things that I really enjoy about Alain's teaching style is his, what I like to refer to as, "nuggets of wisdom" that he injects throughout his instruction process. I too use this in my own personal style of teaching and have found that it is very effective teaching technique.
I have a rather large collection of instructional videos that I have accumulate over the years and I can say without reservation that Alain's "Lock On" series is one of the best I have seen so far on the subject of joint techniques. If I were to have only one comment to make on this series, it would be this, "Hurry up and make the rest of them!"
Master Alain Burrese Does It Again!.......2007-03-11
One thing I've personally enjoyed about all of Burrese's body of work is his no-nonsense way of presentation. From Hard Won Wisdom to Hapkido Hoshinsul, From Street Fighting Essentials to the new Lock On Series, Burrese simply knows self defense.
I was excited to receive the evaluation copy of Master Burrese's new Lock On series of Hapkido Instructional DVDs. As usual, there was no let down.
Throughout, Burrese keeps safety in mind. He reminds the viewer that respect for one's training partner is key. Many instructors forget this point, which could cause problems during practice.
Another bonus of Burrese's work is that he packs as much information as possible into one DVD. Unlike other production companies which use fillers like promos for their other products, Burrese and Aiki Productions cram as much knowledge into each DVD as possible. As always, you get the biggest bang for your buck.
The Lock On Series isn't simply for the novice practitioner. Even the seasoned Hapkidoin will find great material here as well as a good reference source. The novice will find clear, precision instruction on basics, controlling and finishing techniques. The expert will find an invaluable reference on fundamental and advanced techniques and tweaks.
When watching Burrese in action, you'll notice his flow and control. Flowing, making a technique fluid and not choppy or hopping around trying to make it work, is essential in Hapkido. Burrese embodies that concept. He emphasizes proper footwork, an oft forgotten key, and whole body technique. He takes time to explain mechanics, a must for Hapkido.
This isnt a simple run-down of locking techniques. This IS a Master Instructor taking the time to show you step-by-step guidance towards mastery.
Kudos to Aiki Productions on clear video and audio quality. Audio quality is often lacking with many manufacturers. Aiki does an excellent job here with that as well as the graphical interface of the DVD.
Melinda Kidder, Owner
Chajonshim Martial Arts Supply
Excellent "Instructional" Hapkido DVD.......2007-03-09
The second volume of "Lock On" focuses on "Armbars and Elbow Techniques" and follows a similar format to the first and has the same high production values and ease of access through its chaptering system.
This volume comes off as a bit quicker paced than the first and has more variations to these locks. Again the emphasis is not so much on all the myriad parts of Hapkido, but rather on these specific locks, and to a lesser extant, the footwork, strikes, positioning that go with the locks and their variations. This volume goes a bit deeper in this than the first one does and is very much "concept" based instead of rote technique based. It's clear that Mr. Burrese encourages experimentation and creative application of the techniques past the fundamental level of understanding.
The DVD runs a total of 83 minutes and starts off with a brief introduction and then an explanation/examination of the elbow joint. From there various locks are explored, including a basic (standing) Armbar, variations thereof (including some cool techniques using a knee to create the Armbar), Armbar Escorts, Step Under Armbars, Armbreaks, Crossed Arm (elbow) Techniques, Elbow Clamps, and some very basic "Ground Fighting" (really just a few finishing techniques on the ground). For each category, the basic lock is explored in a fairly static sense and in a dynamic sense. From there, helpful and clear pointers are added and then variations in footwork and positioning are added. Various situations are shown, ranging from same side wrist grabs and punch defenses to using it offensively.
During the narration, Mr. Burrese adds in notations on effectiveness for self defense or for demonstrations, making it clear that some techniques are more for show and others aren't. He makes several references to levels of force and although he never goes into a great depth on it does give enough information for experienced practitioners to pick up on and understand. He is also very clear about showing that these are just one small element of Hapkido and that including the strikes, falls, breathing and other elements of the curriculum are necessary to understand and learn the art as a whole.
As an instructor, this is an excellent reference DVD. His clear narration and obvious experience provides a great model to follow when teaching and puts words to a lot of the "little tips" you show and teach but maybe never really explained verbally (I love how he handled the whole "anchoring" concept). This is truly an "instructional" DVD instead of a demonstration one. The focus is on teaching the material and providing ways to take the concepts and run with them.
For a student learning Hapkido, especially one that plans to someday instruct, this is a very valuable resource and well worth the money. I'd rather see someone buy high quality instructional DVDs like this set instead of having to buy lots of cheaper ones and try to get past the "demo" flavor and self-promotion that is often seen. I heard there may be a few more in the set covering other locks, I'll be happy to buy them and will appreciate them in my collection.
Overall, high quality instructional DVD that I highly recommend to students and instructors alike.
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