Those of us that study pragmatic karate, will always tell you that the karate we practice is for use against “civilian attacks”…. the reason karate was created. That our combative skills are for use against a thug, “ruffian or villain” (Ankoh Itosu precept quote). Someone who is untrained in the martial arts. . But these […]
How bad (or good) are untrained people at fighting? Read More »
“Teaching is far from perfect. It’s messy, and in that mess is where you’ll craft your teaching and truly enjoy the journey.” – Lisa Dabbs . I hate teaching! . Not everyone is well suited to a position as an instructor or teacher. As you climb higher in grade it is expected of you to
You must train against uncooperative and resisting opponents. . A lot of martial arts techniques and applications just don’t work against a non-compliant resisting opponent. Especially so when applied in the ways that the vast majority of people try to apply it. . How many times have you seen bunkai or partner drills with an
You must train against uncooperative and resisting opponents. Read More »
In the martial arts everyone has an opinion, whether that person is knowledgeable or not. The problem these days is that everyone believes what they read and watch on social media, instead of thinking for themselves. . But sometimes you read an article or watch a video that contains new, controversial, or subjective information, and
There is more than one way. Read More »
Why are people so afraid of learning something new or different? Even if you have been doing something for years one particular way, there may be a different way, or a better way. Wouldn’t that be interesting and great to know and learn? Why are you so adamant that there is only the way you
Always willing to learn. Read More »
Should we differentiate one form of karate and its bunkai from another, rename it perhaps? As an example: Sport Karate (Bunkai), Children’s Karate (Bunkai), Practical Karate (Bunkai)? (And probably more)….. Which box would your karate fit into? . Personally, I really don’t like the modern sport karate bunkai, the type shown recently at the Olympics,
Which “box” are you in? Read More »
Karate is a mess. . Even today in the 21st century people still refute what karate is, and sometimes what it isn’t. The majority of modern karate is plagued by dogma. No one seems to know what they are training for and in which context. . Practitioners cling to other people’s ideas with almost religious-like
The practice and purpose of kata in the martial arts is being debated (ad nauseam) once again. Do you believe that kata is the foundation of karate, or do you believe kata is an outdated method of practice that is not relevant today? . “[..] If there is no kata, it is not karate-do, just
“If there is no kata, it is not karate-do, just kicking and punching.” Read More »
“For me the martial arts is a search for something inside. It’s not just a physical discipline.” – Brandon Lee . Loyalty is a very important aspect in any relationship, but especially so in the martial arts between a student, their instructor, and their dojo. . Being a loyal person means that you keep your
“For me the martial arts is a search for something inside.” Read More »
Does a change of character begin when we commence karate training? Does karate improve your character? . Character traits can be built, forged, and altered with a sufficient amount of effort and willpower. The benefits of character building largely depend on your personal values and goals. . However, ultimately, the most important question is how
Does karate improve your character? Read More »
Are you awesome? An amazing “sensei”. Beyond reproach? Just amazing at everything you do? Always correcting others but not yourself?…… Oh dear, guess what?…. We have some bad news for you. . There is, of course, a dangerous line between self-confidence and arrogance – a line to which some people are totally oblivious. . The
In the West, where in some cases teaching Karate has become a business, a simple method of “teaching” to large groups of paying customers without much effort was needed. The “3 years spent on one Kata” idea was brushed off since Western consumers generally don’t have that kind of patience and want quick progress, new
Don’t rely on a “label”. It probably isn’t the right one. Read More »
