Martial Arts

The practice of martial arts is deeply rooted in philosophy, tradition, and culture.

The practice of martial arts is deeply rooted in philosophy, tradition, and culture. It teaches not only self-defense but also discipline, focus, and respect. Many people start their martial arts journey with a specific goal in mind – perhaps to earn a black belt, or win a world title, to learn self-defense, etc. . It […]

The practice of martial arts is deeply rooted in philosophy, tradition, and culture. Read More »

“Don’t pretend to be a great master and don’t try to show off your strength.”

Okay, so it seems I need to clarify the use of the word “sensei” as many people still do not understand its correct usage, or even how to introduce themselves without using the term. . Sensei (先生) is a Japanese word people all over the world use in place of “teacher.” But the word “sensei”

“Don’t pretend to be a great master and don’t try to show off your strength.” Read More »

The self-defense mindset at its core, is the fundamental belief that you are worth defending.

Martial artists often speak of having a defensive mindset; that your brain is your best defensive tool for keeping you out of trouble. . Being aware of your surroundings helps you identify dangers and possibly avoiding those dangers. Similarly, being distracted, and unprepared is far more likely to attract predators. Awareness of what is around

The self-defense mindset at its core, is the fundamental belief that you are worth defending. Read More »

There will come a time when you think everything is finished. That will be the beginning.

One of the things that I’ve learned over the years is that it’s important to not only learn something, but to reinforce it as well. How much you practice is just as important as how you learn. We’re all a little guilty of doing things just enough to be proficient without truly mastering a skill.

There will come a time when you think everything is finished. That will be the beginning. Read More »

Keiko (稽古) and Shugyō (修行)

Keiko (稽古) and Shugyō (修行) . Training in the martial arts is not just a hobby; we should contemplate our practice deeply. . The Japanese have six words for training, each signifying a deeper, more encompassing path: Keiko – practice; Renshu – training; Kunren – discipline; Tanren – forging; Kufu – struggling to solve a

Keiko (稽古) and Shugyō (修行) Read More »

Japan judo hits crisis point as bullied, burnt-out children quit.

“Japan judo hits crisis point as bullied, burnt-out children quit.” . “Japan is the home of judo but a brutal win-at-all-costs mentality, corporal punishment and pressure to lose weight are driving large numbers of children to quit, raising fears for the sport’s future in its traditional powerhouse.” – Andrew McKirdy Japan Today June 2022 .

Japan judo hits crisis point as bullied, burnt-out children quit. Read More »