(1 minute 40 second read) Imagine a toolbox filled with tools; wrenches, hammers, screwdrivers, these tools can fix many things….. but how you use them depends on the job. . The martial arts are like those tools – different methods have different goals. . Karate, Judo, Jiu-jitsu, MMA, Boxing – these are all different fighting […]
Master the toolbox, not just the hammer…. Read More »
(2 minute read) It never ceases to amaze me, from the comments on my articles, how many people have such strong opinions about the martial arts, particularly the practice of kata, despite a complete lack of experience. The internet amplifies these uninformed voices, creating a cacophony of assumptions that drown out the true value of
(2 minute 6 second read) I’ve been writing articles for several years now, and probably the most commented and contentious subject of all that I write about has to be Kata. . People just don’t get it. Sadly, there is widespread misunderstanding about this centuries old tradition. . I can’t blame them, as today most
Don’t Just Do Your Kata….. Know Your Kata. Read More »
(2 minute 55 second read) Many dismissive comments I receive state; “Good luck fighting with your kata”. . Kata, often viewed as a choreographed routine, for passing a grade, showing no relation to actual combat. . “The other day I posted a video where I was applying the uppercut technique and a person in his
Many dismissive comments I receive state; “Good luck fighting with your kata”. Read More »
(1 minute 56 second read) The one who controls the distance in an encounter, is the one who controls the situation. . “Maai” (間合い) is a Japanese term that means “interval” or “space between”. It refers to the optimal engagement distance in combat, encompassing both physical separation, and the timing of the attack and defense
(1 minute 31 second read) Martial arts training; principles, techniques, strategies, fitness, they’re all important. But mastering your mind is just as crucial; and for me, that includes avoiding pointless arguments. . It’s easy to get caught up in pointless debates about which style is the best, or which is the strongest, the most effective,
“He who does not understand your silence will probably not understand your words.” Read More »
(2 minute 41 second read) From the comments on a recent article, many people seemed to be offended because of my use of the word “traditional”, some calling me insulting, rude, offensive and more. . I wrote the article with the intention of shedding light on instructors who falsely claim to teach self-defense, who are
Are you a traditionalist, a pragmatist, or both? Read More »
(1 minute 22 second read) Breathing in the martial arts. Easy right? . The most basic function of our body, part of an autonomous system. We don’t have to learn how to do it, we just breathe automatically, we don’t have to think about it. . However, the way you breathe can make a significant
(1 minute 41 second read) There is something very different about being a martial artist; it makes you different from other people, it sets you apart from the crowd. . We all know that anything great requires hard work and sacrifice. It will be tough, difficult, challenging, and it’s going to stretch you and make
“We are made to persist. That’s how we find out who we are.” Read More »
(1 minute 25 second read) Do you ever experience those fluttering butterflies? That exhilarating sensation that arises when you’re eagerly anticipating something you’re about to do or witness? . The martial arts conjures up images of stoic composure, unwavering focus, and nerves of steel. . Yet, beneath the outward calm of experienced practitioners, often lies
(2 minute 26 second read) For me if you have a true interest in the martial arts, I believe it is important that practitioners have some understanding of the history of your art. . And while studying that history, the claim of practicing an “original” kata, as taught by a specific master, raises a crucial
(1 minute 37 second read) While we may sometimes choose to follow the current and see where it leads, ultimately, our choices have lasting consequences. . Something that pops up with regularity is the decision for a practitioner to leave the dojo, and it is rarely a simple one. . It’s a complex and highly
“The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.” Read More »
