If you saw any of the news footage over this weekend, you probably deemed it wise to abstain from Black Friday shopping this year. Here’s a jolly example of what I mean . . .

Makes you glad to know some self-defense, right?

If you’re a wise martial artist like I try to be, then you know the best way to stay safe is to avoid fights in the first place. That’s why I hold out for Cyber Monday–far less bloodshed!

This would probably be a good time to decry the ever-increasing excess of our consumer culture and to extol the true meaning of the holiday season. As much as I would like to do this, I would be A.) preaching to the coverted, and B.) sounding like a hypocrite, as I, myself, am a retailer.

I think we can all agree that some moderation is called for this year?

Okay. Thanks. With that said, here are some sales I personally participated in. Martial artists need gear, and these sales can help you and your favorite training partners stock up for the season.

REI is running a sale on Winter Gear for those of you who like cross training in snow sports.

EMS has a good sale on general items and a “Power Deal” every six hours as well. Great for the adventurer in all of us!

Ring to Cage is giving you 30% off your cart and free shipping. I used some retail jiu-jitsu (i.e. my calculator) to score a $90 set of thai pads for free!

MMA Warehouse has a great clearance section right now that includes holiday bundles. Plus, they have free shipping on orders over $125.

Fighters Market has long been a favorite retailer of mine. For this weekend, they’re offering 15% off and free shipping on orders over $50.

Karate Mart is another great shop with some sweet holiday deals that might appeal to the traditional martial artist on your list.

Another great gift is to sign up for MG In Action. If you click on the link to right, you’ll find amazing lessons from the greatest grappler alive organized in a way that helps you learn at your own pace.

Of course, you could also take a gander at our MMA (Moai Martial Arts) Shop. We’re offering some great products that will suit your favorite martial arts fan (or yourself) perfectly!

Happy Holidays! Stay sane and safe out there!

[Disclosure: I am sponsored by Fighters Market, MG In Action, and Karate Mart. Since I like their sites so much, whatever money I make goes right back to them, but that’s besides the point!]