- Originally published on the Bartitsu.org site on Tuesday, 28th April 2009
“Introductory Bartitsu” is a new instructional DVD by Allen Reed of the Gallowglass Academy.
Allen begins with an accurate precis of Bartitsu history and then takes viewers through American catch-as-catch-can wrestler Farmer Burns’ warmup routine, focusing on isometric and calisthenic exercises.
The next section introduces basic jiujitsu ukemi techniques (side, front and rear breakfalls) and this is followed by an introduction to some of Barton-Wright’s atemi-waza (striking techniques) as detailed in his Pearson’s Magazine articles.
Subsequent sections take us through many of the jiujitsu techniques demonstrated in B-W’s “New Art of Self Defence” articles, with occasional neo-Bartitsu variations based on Allen’s background in Miyama-ryu jiujitsu and Paracombatives; a complementary section on throwing and counter-throwing from classic pugilism; basic boxing, drawing largely from “Boxing” by R.G. Allanson-Winn; two fundamental low kicks drawn from the savate repertoire and a thorough sampling of the Vigny/Bartitsu cane fighting techniques from B-W’s “Self Defence with a Walking Stick” articles.
The presentation is simple and straightforward, as a progression of individual techniques demonstrated from both sides, often several times. Allen explains the techniques as they are being demonstrated by himself and his assistant Chris Vail. The video and sound quality is clear.
In sum, this 1 hour, 33 minute DVD from Gallowglass is a concise, no-frills introduction to largely canonical Bartitsu techniques. It should be of particular use to beginners, especially those working from volume I of the Bartitsu Compendium.