The journey in the martial arts, like life, is not just about physical techniques. It’s about the personal growth that comes with the process. When you commit to the path, you’re committing to becoming a better person, day by day, year by year. . It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the demands of others or […]
The Martial Arts Are Like a Mirror: They Reflect Your Strengths and your Weaknesses. Read More »
(Approx 2 minute 40 second read) There comes a point in time, after many years of hard work, teaching, and dedicated training, when instructors begin to entertain the idea of going it alone. It’s a natural progression in any art or profession. After decades of practice and immersion, the question arises: What’s next? . What
The Crossroads of Independence: Breaking Free and Knowing When It’s Time to Go Alone. Read More »
(Approx 2 minute read) Can you remember starting a martial arts class as a beginner? I can, even though it was way back in 1974. . If you’ve never experienced any form of martial art or physical fighting activity, it can feel overwhelming – like stepping into an entirely new world. Starting out can be
The Beginning of Transformation: The Path Ahead Starts Here. Read More »
(Approx 2 minute 10 second read) In 1908, Anko Itosu wrote a letter called the “Ten Precepts (Tode Jukun) of Karate” to draw the attention of Japan’s Ministry of Education and Ministry of War toward karate. . One particular point in Itosu’s fourth precept stands out: the importance of the makiwara. “In karate, training of
(Approx 2 minute 10 second read) Someone commented on one of my articles: “So many words for a simple answer”. When did reading take a step backward for so many people? . I understand that times have changed. Many people today seem to prioritize instant gratification – no waiting, no reading, just give it to
(Approx 2 minute 20 second read) Yue Fei, a legendary general from the Song Dynasty, is a figure whose legacy resonates across cultures and martial traditions. . Though Yue Fei lived in 12th-century China, his story symbolizes universal martial virtues. He is remembered for his loyalty, discipline, and moral integrity – principles echoed throughout the
Echoes of Loyalty: The Honor and Discipline of Yue Fei. Read More »
(Approx 2 minute 20 second read) For most people, kata is a solo performance, mostly there to pass a grade. For a practitioner with limited experience, this is an important stage of practice. If you can’t perform the movements efficiently without an opponent, you’ll have no chance of making them work against an aggressive one.
Kata: More Than a Theatrical Performance – A Record of Practical Combat. Read More »
“‘Ishiki’ (意識) is very important. ‘Awareness – Take more attention and focus’. Without ‘Ishiki’: you wouldn’t realize what is happening here and there. By doing it you see and realize things happening. During everyday training with more attention and focus you will see and realize how your stance, form and technique are. Do not ignore
‘Ishiki’ – Awareness. Read More »
(Approx 2 minute 35 second read) A couple of years ago, I was going through a moment of madness – I seem to have many of them. I felt like I needed a new challenge and briefly considered swapping styles. A new organization had just been established, and I had a massive amount of respect
Back to White: When Values Matter Most. Read More »
(Approx 2 minute read) Close-mindedness isn’t always as obvious as we think. It doesn’t just show up as stubbornness or refusal to change. Sometimes, it hides behind the belief that you already know enough – enough about your martial arts, enough about the world, enough about yourselves, enough about others. . Ask anyone if they’re
Embracing Different Perspectives: Why Listening is Key to Understanding. Read More »
(Approx 2 minute 30 second read) In the world of martial arts, grades, are viewed as a reflection of a practitioner’s journey – a combination of technical ability, deeper understanding, and personal character. . Yet, there are times when we encounter individuals whose grade seems to far outshine their skills, knowledge, or behavior. Such instances
Earned or Given: The Belt Without Merit. Is A Grade for Sale? Read More »
(Approx 2 minute 25 second read) There are plenty of reasons why kata has become somewhat disconnected from real combat. From philosophical and political decisions made by Funakoshi and others following WWII to common training methods, distorted views of how fighting works, and the spread of information lacking depth. . I get so many
Kata: The thread that connects it all. Read More »
