A self defense & martial arts knuckle destruction techniques!

Let’s face it, 90% of people on this planet that fight, use punches and strikes as a majority of their arsenal of moves.

I first learned this technique in a martial arts seminar, from expert, Tom Cruise. No not the movieactor, but the guy who has trained the Navy Seals,Army Rangers, US Army and even many SWAT teams.

This technique is designed to protect you from being punched in the face, while at the same time destroying your attackers punching hand. You ready?

The next time a punch is coming at you, grab the back of your head with your dominant hand, and make a triangle with your elbow facing your attacker.

This will do a few things.

First of all, it will protect you from getting punched in the face. Secondly, if you keep your hand behind your head and keep the triangle formed, stick with it and use your elbow to smash your attacker’s hand.

It works extremely well and I’ve used it in jail with great success in many fights. When your attacker punches your elbow, he will break his knuckles and will be a useless baby crying in pain!

About the Author

Article by Steve Gibbs. Discover 37 Bone Busting Self Defense Techniques For Free!
Click here for self defense techniques!

Undefeated UFC Fighter Frank Edgar Finds ‘The Answer’ to Adding Lean Muscle Mass with Supreme Protein
Fresh off another dominant first-round victory, undefeated UFC fighter Frank Edgar pauses to reflect on his hard-won success and to credit his favorite mega-anabolic snack, Supreme Protein bars, for helping him pack on the lean muscle mass that has helped him surprise opponents with his new-found strength and power. (PRWeb Aug 26, 2007)

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Johnny Powers Pro Wrestling Champion and Sports Promotion Icon Launches International Mixed Martial Arts Venture
Pro wrestling champion and sports promotion icon Johnny Powers launches his 1Fight Network with "The Warrior Spirit" MMA Cage Series in Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada on September 29, 2007. The series will then head through the US, Mexico and Brazil and will be featured on PPV and in international TV syndication. (PRWeb Sep 5, 2007)

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A Brief Guide To Goju Ryu
Goju ryu was developed by Chojun Miyagi, who was born in 1988.He took the name from a chinese text called “bubishi” which explains the eight precepts which make up the training in this style of martial art.

7 Quick and Natural Ways to Increase Your Energy for Martial Arts Training

“7 Quick and Natural Ways to Increase Your Energy for
Martial Arts Training”

-by Joshua Black

? 2006 Joshua Black -All Rights Reserved

1. A no-brainer, but most people don’t follow it: Get at least
8 hours of sleep each night. Actually the perfect amount of
sleep has been found to be 8.2 hours. No amount of pills,
potions, or energy drinks can make up for the lack of required
sleep

2. Drink a ton of water on the days that you train. Slam 2-3
glasses 20 minutes before training to make sure your body is
adequately hydrated before you sweat profusely for a few hours.
Hydrate well during your workout too. You’re mostly made of
water, don’t lose it at the gym.

3. Take a multi-vitamin every day. Most of the food we eat
no longer contains all of the vitamins we need, despite how
good (or bad) your intentions are. Choose a multivitamin of
high quality, and pick one that is sex-specific. Women need
iron supplements, men don’t. Men should have a lycopene
additive. You may also want to add an additional large dose
of vitamin C (500 mg+). You will notice a huge difference
in your daily energy if you have picked high quality vitamins.
The change usually takes 1-2 weeks to notice.

4. 10-15 minutes of meditation and deep breathing just before
working out. Find a quiet place to sit. Close you eyes and focus
only on your breathing, nothing else. This will empty your mind
of energy-draining stress and will dump extra oxygen into your
system, getting your body ready for training.

5. Eat a thick peanut butter and jelly sandwich on wheat bread,
15-20 minutes before working out. The peanut butter will
provide you with long lasting protein energy, while the jelly will
give you that quick sugar boost to get you started during cardio
training. The wheat bread is used instead of white, to avoid the
fat-generating carbs from white flour.

6. Perform the cardio portion of you workout first when you have
peak energy, then focus on forms and technique. This will give
your body all of the advantage it needs to get optimum training
results, and then your mind will be clear for techniques later.

7. Eat small meals 4-6 times a day, instead of 2-3 large ones.
This will keep your metabolism level up all day long and give
you increased energy, instead of feeling like you gorged yourself
3 times a day like most people.BREAK#

#TITLE#Martial Arts Secrets Used By Military Special Ops

The History of Muay Thai
A brief history of the formation and development of Muay Thai. With origins in Thailand, Muay Thai is a popular sport in many Eastern countries.

Do You Wear A Belt Rank You Don’t Deserve?
Imagine that you’ve been training BJJ for a few months and have been enjoying everything that’s involved with the training: the technique, the camaraderie, the confidence that you’ve developed, the friendly mat rivalries that you’ve developed with your training partners, the locker room trash-talking, trying to guess who’s going to be the next person to get promoted, and the fact that there are no expectations or pressure to perform. Then one day, as your class ends, your instructor calls you up and rewards you with your belt promotion to the next rank. Are you happy, heck no!

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Weight Training and Martial Arts Training- Should You Do Both?

Should You Add Supplementary Weight Training to your Martial Arts Training?

There are four things you should consider before you add supplementary weight training into your workout schedule:

? Speed

? Flexibility

? Endurance

? Strength

Martial arts training will naturally help you improve in all of these areas, but many people wonder if they need to add supplementary weight training to increase these areas. The answer is maybe.

The first determination of whether or not you should do separate weight training is how it will affect your martial arts training. If weight training will take the place of your martial arts training, then I don?t recommend it (especially for beginners). Advanced martial arts students can make the determination depending on their personal goals.

When you?re making the decision, consider this:

? You can add weights if you have your martial arts training regime down cold ? you don?t want your martial arts training to suffer so that you can weight train on the side.

? If you do choose to weight train, educate yourself or get a trainer so that you get the most out of your training.

? Make a plan before you begin anything.

To make a plan, you need to figure out where you want to improve. You need a balanced body to be a good martial artist, so if you do decide to add supplemental training, it should be to improve this balance. Is there a part of your body that is not up to par with the rest of your body? Do you have plenty of endurance but lack speed?

Here?s an example of what I mean. I had a student that had perfect form. She was worried that her technique wouldn?t work in a real situation. She practiced slow and accurate movements, so the answer for her was to start training for power or speed to make her movements more real-world applicable.

In the ?old days? martial artists were not purists if they did strength training along with it. The thing is, even in the Shaolin temples, the Kung Fu practitioners had exercises like moving granite balls and doing hundreds of movements with iron rings on their arms ? it sounds like a form of weight training to me.

If anyone tells you that weight training will harm your martial arts training, they are only right if you stop or reduce your martial arts training to weight train. If you break your training down into sections and focus on the parts of your body or goals that you need to balance your body, then you can train accordingly without affecting your martial arts training. If you?re still not sure whether or not you?re weight training affectively, just make sure you do an hour and a half of martial arts training for every hour of weight training you do.

FeelSaferNow.com Offers Tips and Strategies for College Students to Stay Safe on Campus
With increased crime and theft incidents at college campuses, it is more important than ever to help your college student stay safe, be aware and prepared to defend themselves and their personal property. (PRWeb Aug 31, 2007)

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The Xtreme Fighting Association (XFA) to Debut in Las Vegas
The Xtreme Fighting Association (XFA) is coming to Las Vegas and will showcase the excitement of stand up fighting with knock-down, knock-out action from the world's most exciting and talented athletes. The XFA is an association of the top martial arts executives, managers, promoters, coaches, trainers and fighters in the world. (PRWeb Aug 10, 2007)

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The 4 Secret Things That You Must Do If You Want To Be Successful At Judo
If you want to learn what you must do to become a better judo player or a better grappler, then you MUST read this article.

Strengthening Your Body and Mind
Martial arts is an extremely powerful way of keeping fit, improving your mind and strengthening your reflexes. It requires a lot of commitment, but it is well worth the effort.

Martial Arts for Children - A Note to Parents About Motivation Problems and Child Development

I want to address a common parental concern that I continue to encounter, both in my role as a martial arts teacher, and as a fellow parent. This is in the difficulty that many parents often encounter in getting their youth student to martial arts class only to be even more confused at their child’s enthusiasm when they are actually in class. “I have to fight to get them here,” or “He just wants to play with his friends,” are common complaints that I hear from frustrated parents.

Often, these parents consider letting their son or daughter quit but then come to find that’s not what the child wants. “How,” they ask me, “can he want to keep training but fight me when it’s time to come?”

They find it very difficult to understand the contradiction between having to fight to get their child to class and the fact that they have so much fun when they get there.

To solve the ‘mystery’ and eliminate the misunderstanding we must first understand the way a child thinks and the way their brain has developed to this point in their young lives.

What makes them resist coming to class but enjoy it once they are here? The answer is…

…timing.

And this, is linked to the physiological development and growth of their brain.

Quite frankly, children (and some adults) have not developed an understanding of the concept of scheduling and timing. That is to say that, once they have become involved in something, that is what they want to do. Anything else, regardless of how pleasurable or necessary, at that moment is seen as a hindrance to ‘this moment’s fun.’ Whether it is watching TV or playing with their friends, or whatever, once a child becomes involved in something, anything, that “thing” gets ALL of their attention - period.

Don’t blame the child or think that you must be a bad parent or the only one dealing with this sort of thing. It is completely natural. The reality of the matter is that…

…your child cannot do what you ask because…

1) He or she is NOT an adult in a smaller body

2) The parts of the brain that process this type of information and data, quite literally, hasn’t developed yet, and…

3) He or she has been ALLOWED to get involved in something that you know will capture his or her attention before you need them to go to class

And, therein lies the secret for overcoming both the frustration and the confusion. Just don’t allow your young martial artist to get into anything that you KNOW will make him or her not want to stop when it’s time to go to martial arts or karate class.

Won’t they go stir-crazy? What’s a child to do while waiting?

Good question. And the answer is…

…practice “preparing for class.” This simple step will actually help your child to develop the skills you’re looking for and promote brain growth in those areas.

So, instead of letting them drift into TV Land or whatever, at least for the hour or so before you’ll be leaving for class, have them “get ready.” Make it a rule that they have to make sure that they have their uniform, belt, and equipment. Have them practice their moves by “showing you what they learned last class” or “what their favorite techniques are.”

We as parents and teachers, must help our children over these moments with gentle reminders of other commitments and necessities until they learn this for themselves. Unfortunately, until a child learns to project their thought processes forward to specific time periods (as opposed to the general “can we ____ sometime?” or “when will it be tomorrow?”) they will have to be taken away from things they are engaged in ‘at the moment.’ I know it’s rough, but it’s also “natural.” And, no amount of wishing for an easier job as a parent will make your child’s brain work any differently. The fact is that, until this skill develops, YOU will have to be there as a stand-in to help them through.

So, the next time you have to do something like coming to martial arts class, try giving your child a “heads-up” before they become involved in any activity. Once they get in the habit of thinking ahead and preparing for a future event, they will do more and more of it on their own. Until then, it will take a little nudging, prodding, and reminding. But then again, if it didn’t, we parents would be out of a job!

About the Author

Jeffrey Miller is founder of Warrior Concepts Int’l. He specializes in teaching self-protection and personal development in a way that’s easily understood by modern students. Subscribe to his newsletter at http://www.warrior-concepts-online.com

Popularity: unranked [?]

Kung Fu: History And Basic Principles
The Term:

Historically, the term ?Kung Fu? is not really featured in any ancient texts. It was first coined by a Frenchman named Jean Joseph Marie Amiot, a missionary who lived in the 18th Century, in reference to Chinese martial arts. Kung Fu is also called Gongfu, Wushu, or Kuoshu, and originally denotes expertise in any skill, and not exclusive to martial arts.

Brief History:

The practice, philosophy, and concept of Kung Fu can be traced back to ancient Chinese texts such as Zhuang Zi, Dao De Jing, and Sun Zi Bing Fa (Art of War written by Sun Zi), all written between 1111-255 BC. These texts contain passages related to the practice, propagation, and principles of Chinese martial arts, or Kung Fu as it is known today.

One theory regarding the first written history of Kung Fu suggests that the Yellow Emperor, who reigned from 2698 BC, wrote the first treatise on Chinese martial arts. Others give credit to Taoist monks for introducing an art form that resemble modern Tai Chi around 500 BC. Then in 39-92 AD, Pan Ku included “Six Chapters of Hand Fighting” in his discourse on the history of the Han dynasty (Han Shu). As the popularity of martial arts progressed, a physician named Hua T?uo also wrote his own treatise entitled, ?Five Animals Play” in 220 AD.

Kung Fu had become a common word in the West beginning in the late 1960s, popularized by martial arts movies and TV series. The Western world today has also seen an immense upsurge in the creation and production of martial arts movies starring great actors/masters such as Jackie Chan and Jet Li.

Basic Principles:

The concept of Kung Fu revolves around three basic principles ? Motivation, Self-discipline and Time.

According to experts, the real motivation behind learning Kung Fu is inspiration and not force, which should come from an inner craving to learn and develop the mind and body. Motivation here is the fundamental driving force. There is no external or worldly gain for the learner, and the only reward is that of knowledge, skill, strength and wisdom.

In Kung Fu, discipline is complementary to motivation. Discipline puts motivation into deed and action. A learner has to make an effort into what he has been motivated for, and self-discipline helps him get started and guides him to achieve that goal. Therefore, without discipline, motivation is just a dormant state of mind.

Time is the path to perfection in martial arts. Once motivation and self-discipline have set in, a learner has to spend a considerable amount of time putting mind and body into practice. A truly inspired learner does not have the privilege to waste time, stay idle or indulge in fruitless activities. Everything done by him/her should reflect real motivation and self-discipline.

Variants and Styles:

With the passage of time, numerous variants and styles have come up in martial arts, or Kung Fu. Some of the more popular ones include Karate, Escrima, Wing Chun, Jujitsu, Judo, Tae Kwon Do, Shaolin, White Crane, T’ai Chi Ch’uan, and Bagua Zhang.

<a href="http://martialarts-hq.com/">Martial Arts HQ</a> offers articles, tips and tricks about different martial arts.

Where To Get Your Martial Arts And Self Defense Equipment
When you start training martial arts or Self Defense you will need the adequate martial arts of Self Defense equipment.

Both types of equipment are different and you should know what to look for when shopping for martial arts or self defense equipment.

The most common place to buy martial arts or self defense equipment is in the local dojo. Most dojos, training centers, etc?. have a small store where you can buy or order the martial arts or self defense equipment you need for your practice.

Buying your martial arts or self defense equipment at your local dojo has a lot of advantages. You will get expert advise from your teacher. He knows your needs and what type of martial arts or self defense equipment you are going to need for his classes. He will also be the best person to advise you on the quality of the different brands due to his years of experience with many different suppliers.

The negative part of buying martial arts or self defense equipment at your local dojo is the price. Buying only a minor wholesaler, the discount margins are very small and this will reflect itself in the prices your teacher has to charge for the martial arts and self defense equipment he or she sells.

The second possibility is buy your martial arts and self defense equipment at a local specialized store. The advantage is a lower price than in your local dojo or gym, you can touch, feel and try on the equipment before you buy to see if you like it and if the size fits you. You can get some advise from the salesperson about the different brands of martial arts and self defense equipment they sell.

The downside is the fact that most salespersons in those shops are non practitioners of the martial arts or self defense so they have no practical experience with the equipment they sell. This may lead to mistakes that will cost you money.

The third way to buy your martial arts or self defense equipment is to shop for it online. There are many suppliers to be found online that will ship the goods to your doorstep. To find them just type: martial arts or self defense equipment in google or any other search engine and you will get thousands of listings for this term.

The advantages are obvious : no need to leave your home, low prices and shipping to your doorstep but the inconveniences are also very obvious: You can not feel, try or touch the equipment before finishing the payment and receiving the shipment of your martial arts or self defense equipment. You won?t be able to get advise from a real person, face to face. Some suppliers will be happy to assist you in your selection of martial arts or self defense equipment by email or phone. If you have to return an order for whatever reason you will have to take care of the shipping and packing and refunds can take time to be paid.

So before starting to shop for your martial arts or self defense equipment take a look at the above and consider what is the best way for you. Some people will be limited to one or two possibilities and others can only buy their martial arts or self defense equipment online but wherever you go to buy yours, consider the warranty and the refund policies of all 3, the local dojo, the specialized shop and the online supplier.

This can save you a lot of headaches. Things do break and sometimes it just isn?t manufactured as it should be so warranty and refund policies will help you determine the professionalism of the seller and save you time and headaches.

Peter Vermeeren is a traditional martial arts teacher for over 30 year. His websites can be found here: <a href="http://www.takaharudojo.org" target="_blank">http://www.takaharudojo.org</a> and <a href="http://www.kamikaze-portal.com" target="_blank">http://www.kamikaze-portal.com</a>

Martial Arts Training: More Than Just Self-Defense

According to the FBI, four women die everyday as a result of domestic violence and about 130,000 women report that they’ve been victims of rape or attempted rape annually. Because of statistics like this, many women enroll in self-defense classes to learn the skills they need to defend themselves.

The thing is, a short-term self-defense class may not address all of the areas you need to be able to fully defend yourself. While martial arts classes won’t specifically train you for combat and fighting, they will give you the ability to defend yourself if you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to practice self-defense. The best part is that this self-defense isn’t always physical. What most people don’t know is that in a good martial arts class you’ll learn a variety of skills to help you gain the awareness, peace and physical conditioning you need to be a stronger person, in all aspects of your life.

Confidence. All the physical defense skills in the world won’t help if you don’t have the confidence needed to use them. That’s the beauty of martial arts training. In order to successfully train a martial art, you need to have your mind and body in tune with one another. This self-awareness gives you the confidence your need to control and defend yourself if needed. You’ll be able to handle everyday and extraordinary situations without losing your temper. You’ll be able to stand your ground. You’ll appear to be (and will be) more confident - and people who appear to be confident are less likely to be the victims of violence because they don’t look like “easy targets”.

Focus and Awareness. While training martial arts, you need to focus and concentrate on what you are doing so that you don’t injure yourself or those around you. This focus and concentration carries over into other aspects of your life as well. Soon, you’ll find yourself better able to concentrate on work, school and home. You’ll even find yourself being more aware of your surroundings which can help you avoid potentially harmful or violent situations.

Peace. Training martial arts will also give you an inner peace that can change your life. First of all, to effectively train martial arts, your workout will always be changing. You’ll never get bored with your workout because it will always be challenging to your abilities (both physical and mental). In addition to that, training martial arts is a great stress reducer. You probably already know that regular physical exercise can reduce physical stress, but what you don’t know is that martial arts go one step further to reduce emotional stress as well. Activities such as martial arts that require you concentrate on your movements and your core strength can give you full stress relief in one activity.

Strength and Conditioning. When you train martial arts, you use your entire body. You cannot use just one muscle set at a time. The exercises are always changing and evolving to give you the maximum out of each training session. Martial arts also increase your flexibility which is great because people who are flexible suffer fewer injuries, have better posture and are better able to relax their muscles.

If you are interested in learning more about how martial arts can help your self confidence, please contact one of my three locations in Bellevue, Lynnwood or Kent, Washington at 800-508-6141or martialadvice@hotmail.com to set up a free 2 week trail orientation.

Also, please see our web pages at www.kungfutemple.com and www.martialarts-instruction.com

Sincerely,

Robert Jones
Master Instructor
6th Degree Black Belt
Owner, the Academy of Kempo Martial Arts

About the Author

Mr. Robert Jones runs three successful martial arts schools located in Bellevue, Lynnwood, and Kent Washington. He has been helping families make positive changes in their lives through martial arts for over 20 years. He has also written two guides on how to pick a martial arts school. One for adults and one for parents wanting to pick the right school for their children. He can be reached at 800-508-6141.

Popularity: unranked [?]

UFC 70: Nations Collide in Manchester
There is going to be an exciting event titled UFC 71: Liddell vs. Jackson scheduled on Saturday, May 26, 2007 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, ….

Martial Arts Film Star Karen Sheperd Headed to Atlantic City
“The Karate Diva” Karen Sheperd heads to the Mega Martial Arts Expo in January 2005

Mixed Martial Arts

Mixed martial arts, better known as MMA, is a form of sports that involves the use of a mixture of martial art combat techniques to win over the opponent. MMA has become very popular in recent years and MMA championships like the “UFC” or Ultimate Fighting Championships have become very popular.

MMA began with pitting one martial art technique with another under minimal rules, so that the martial art which would be the most effective in day to day life could be found. Modern mixed martial competitions have evolved from such events, but rules are much stricter due to which, the sport has been promoted into acceptance. However, there is no centralized sanctioning authority for mixed martial arts and the rules vary from place to place or organization to organization.

Striking and grappling are the common techniques used in MMA. Striking techniques involve kicks, knees and punches while grappling techniques involve the use of holds, sweeps and throws. Techniques like eye-gouging, biting and fish hooking are considered illegal in most MMA competitions. Other techniques like head butts, spinal locks and elbows may or may not be considered legal in different MMA organizations.

In MMA competitions, victory is based on the judge’s decision, submission or knockout. A competitor’s corner man can also decide the outcome of the match and so can the match doctor if the competitor is injured to an extent that he/she can no longer fight properly.

Competitors participating in MMA have to train themselves in a variety of fighting styles so that they can effectively overcome their opponents. MMA training usually involves stand up, clinch and ground combat. To make the stand up combat effective, boxing and kickboxing are taught. These improve kicking, punching, kneeing and most important of all-footwork. Freestyle wrestling is taught to improve clinching. Additionally, competitors are trained in Muay Thai to improve the striking power during a clinch. Training in Brazilian Jujitsu and Sambo improves ground combat by improving the competitor’s positioning. Further, shoot wrestling, catch wrestling and judo are taught to enhance the competitor’s ground combat abilities.

Some of the best competitors are well rounded fighters. But, they all specialize really well in one aspect of mixed martial arts. Sometimes this style is so dominant that it is overwhelming for the other opponent.

Success in modern martial arts lies in adapting many styles. These styles have to be altered accordingly. Today, MMA competitors do not train in a particular style but train all the styles together. Flexibility plays a very important role in succeeding in MMA competitions. MMA is physically a very demanding sport and being competent is the only key to success.

About the Author

For more information, please go to our site:
http://www.ocjj.com

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Martial Arts Training Techniques
Are you learning the basic principles of movement in your martial art? Is your instructor showing them to you? In this article we will go over some of them.

Martial Arts: The Number One Way to Combat Bullying

As parents, we do everything we can to protect our children from harm and to provide them with the skills they need to be healthy, successful adults. The problem is, we are not with them all the time. What our kids do at school is sometimes a mystery to us. Are they polite to their teachers? Do they participate in class? Are they bullying other kids? Are they being bullied? There is something you can do to help get them on track to be successful in school and to avoid the bully-trap - even when you’re not around: Enroll them in a martial arts class.

One of the biggest misconceptions about enrolling children and teenagers in martial arts is that the kids become aggressive and, therefore, a likely bully. The fact is, however, that martial arts do just the opposite. Bullies often have sense of superiority over others and their environments and lack impulse control. Often time, bullies don’t know how to manage their anger so they take it out on people they deem weaker than themselves. Many times, bullies are being, or have been, bullied at some point in their lives as well. Martial arts help solve these problems.

Martial arts can also help kids who are being bullied. Bullies thrive on attacking (physically or emotionally) people that they see as weak. Kids who are bullied often have (generally as a result of the bullying) low confidence levels, inability to concentrate on school work, lack of focus and high stress levels which make them look even weaker. Martial arts help solve these problems too.

The many benefits of martial arts for children are a great way to combat bullying, but as you read on, you’ll see that the benefits extend way past bullying and will help your children succeed in other areas of their lives as well:

Concentration and Focus. Training martial arts is not a mindless activity. It requires complete concentration and focus at all times during training. The best part about this needed concentration, however, is that it carries over into all parts of your children’s lives. You’ll notice (and your children’s teachers will probably also notice) that they will be able to focus more on their school work and they might even have more successful grades.

Confidence and Control. Martial arts will help your children get in tune with their minds and bodies. This will help kids better understand themselves, their actions and their options. They know that they don’t need to lose their temper to handle stressful situations and they’ll also know that they have the ability to physically defend themselves if needed. All of this knowledge will increase their confidence and over all demeanor making them appear (and be) stronger individuals and less likely to be a victim of a bully. It will also help prevent them from bullying others because they will be more aware of themselves and those around them.

Stress Reduction. You probably already know that physical exercise is a great stress reliever for you. Do you also know that it works for your children as well? Any type of exercise such as jogging or playing sports can relieve the physical stress that your children feel from daily life - and it may be more than you’d expect. Training martial arts goes one step further, however. It will also help your children relieve their emotional stress because martial arts require them to concentrate their training, not dwell on their problems.

Respect. If you send your children to the right school, their martial arts instructors will both command and deserve respect from all of their students. They will also be able to instill in your children that all people deserve respect, especially adults.

If you are interested in learning more about how martial arts can help your self confidence, please contact one of my three locations in Bellevue, Lynnwood or Kent, Washington at 800-508-6141or martialadvice@hotmail.com to set up a free 2 week trail orientation.

Also, please see our web pages at www.kungfutemple.com and www.martialarts-instruction.com

Sincerely,

Robert Jones
Master Instructor
6th Degree Black Belt
Owner, the Academy of Kempo Martial Arts

About the Author

Mr. Robert Jones runs three successful martial arts schools located in Bellevue, Lynnwood, and Kent Washington. He has been helping families make positive changes in their lives through martial arts for over 20 years. He has also written two guides on how to pick a martial arts school. He can be reached at martialadvice@hotmail.com or at the Academy of Kempo Martial Arts. 800-508-6141

The Karate Secret No One Wants You To Know
Have you seen the History Channel’s new show Human Weapon yet? Its pretty friggen good.

Popularity: unranked [?]

“Sci-Fighter” Star Don “The Dragon” Wilson headed to Atlantic City
World kickboxing champion Don “The Dragon” Wilson is set to attend the Mega Martial Arts Expo at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino.

Aikido of Austin to Sponsor Japanese Summer Cultural Festival
Sponsored by Aikido of Austin, the summer festival will feature martial arts, Taiko drummers, Okinawan dance, and Japanese food.

8 Technical Aspects of the Martial Arts

In the past Japanese samurai, Mongolian horsemen, Manchu bannermen, and European knights spent a lifetime learning the highly complex art of fighting. It took many years of discipline to master the techniques of unarmed fighting and fighting with weapons, and training was honed by close-quarters combat that resulted in real fatalities. Although soldiers continue to be trained in these arts today, given the advanced technology of modern warfare they are less likely to engage in unarmed fighting. Unarmed fighting has become more of a civilian sport, and the techniques practiced are less lethal. Many practitioners study only a limited number of fighting techniques within a single system. Others like to gain diverse skills, and most martial arts schools include the study of techniques from different systems. In some systems, advanced study is not offered until a practitioner has been studying and training for many years and gained a certain level of skill.

Types and features of fighting include: long- and short-range unarmed fighting, armed fighting, grappling, the use of pressure points, self-cultivation, single- and multiple-opponent fighting, fighting without injuring the opponent, and avoidance of fighting.

In long-range unarmed fighting, participants have time to react to visual stimuli, which allows the execution of both powerful strikes as well as subtle feints. In short-range unarmed fighting, practitioners must react quickly to tactile stimuli. Feints are difficult to do, as speed and reflex assume importance.

When using grappling techniques, leverage and physical strength are important. Participants wrestle each other to gain submission of the other or find a weak spot for striking. At this range, pinching, biting, and spitting may also be used if not forbidden by the rules.

In armed fighting, the reach of the practitioner is increased and strikes are more destructive. Each weapon and range has its own techniques, and several weapons are generally studied. For efficiency and simplification, a well-designed teaching system will emphasize similarities in technique.

Incorporating the knowledge of pressure points can increase the effective use of traditional techniques and add a new range of options. When striking the body, for example, the target point can be chosen to bring about a specific effect.

Self-cultivation techniques enhance moral, emotional, and physical development. Some martial arts schools have character development as a main goal. Acquiring skill in a martial art form takes patience, dedication, and persistence, all of which benefit the practitioner in developing strength of character. A school focusing on self-cultivation emphasizes techniques and training that encourage and support this development.

Traditional duels and modern sparring matches consist of single-opponent fighting. Expert fighters are pitted against each other and must follow a definite set of rules in fighting until one is declared the victor. In this type of fighting, footwork can be simplified, as quick turns are rarely needed. In such matches, opponents tend to be equals in skill.

Some martial arts systems, especially those that focus on basic self-defense, teach avoidance of fighting altogether. Techniques include instruction on how to become aware of potentially violent confrontations and situations, defuse them before they arise, and de-escalate them if they occur. In these systems, fighting would be engaged in as a last resort when it is unavoidable.

About the Author

Steven Gregoire has been training in the martial arts since 1986. Currently
he operates Tigerstrike.com A martial art
equipment and supply store.

Martial Arts Leaders Give More Support for the New Museum
The Martial Arts History Museum continues to receive support from martial arts leaders across the globe

Popularity: unranked [?]

Self-Defense Within Martial Arts Training Demands a Real-World Perspective

This story is being offered in response to a request made by my teacher, Soke (Grand Master) Masaaki Hatsumi, during a recent training visit to Japan. During one of the training sessions, Soke was suggesting that everyone, regardless of rank, should make it a point to talk to those with actual combat experience and to learn from these people. The point was, if you do not know what a real fight is like, you will not be able to train properly for an authentic situation.

I was asked to share some of my experience in dealing with an attack and the following story came to mind. Though I have much experience with dealing with danger and dangerous people, this particular situation stands out as both a successful outcome where I was able to use some of my ninpo-taijutsu martial arts training, and a learning experience where I was actually able to control both my awareness and response, instead of mentally shutting down and “hoping” for the best.

The incident occurred many years ago while I was stationed in, what was then, West Germany. I was serving with the United States Army Military Police Corps. My partner and I were called to respond to a unit where a serviceman was assaulting others, including the officer-in-charge.

When we arrived at, what we thought was, the location of the incident, there was no one but the Charge of Quarters present. He had no idea about the incident. What none of us knew was that the ‘problem’ was occurring next door and moving in our direction.

While my partner and I were confirming the call with our superiors, the attacker entered the building where we were. He was obviously intoxicated and shouting racial insults and demanding satisfaction before he started a ‘real war.’ By the smell of him, he had been drinking heavily and primarily whiskey. His clothes showed signs of a struggle and at this point I wasn’t sure if I was facing an attacker or the victim of an assault.

I immediately tried to calm the individual and find out what the problem was. As I was doing this, several other soldiers, including the command duty officer entered the building and became involved. The belligerent soldier was going on with his racial attacks and how he was attacked by what he thought were his friends. It was then that he turned his attention to me and began implying that he had martial arts experience and “didn’t have to prove himself to anyone.”

During this, and later after interviewing witnesses, we found that the individual had tested for his black belt in another martial art earlier that day and was out ‘celebrating’ with his friends. Witnesses testified that the more intoxicated he became, the more he started “showing off” to his friends which involved hitting and kicking. Eventually, his friends had had enough and then attempted to stop his obnoxious behavior by pushing him away and leaving him behind. This only made him more “playful” at which time he jumped on his friends resulting in them throwing him down on the ground. It was this that finally enraged him enough to chase them to the barracks and begin attacking others.

As he was telling me that he didn’t have to prove himself, he also made statements that I only thought that I was tougher than him because I carried a gun, a nightstick and wore an MP helmet. I responded by removing my helmet and handing my night stick to my partner in an attempt to neutralize any perceived threat that I might be projecting and bring the soldier’s anxiety level down. I informed him that the gun stayed where it was but that we needed to talk like civilized men so we could solve whatever problem was going on.

The soldier continued on with the “I’m a black belt and don’t need to prove how tough I am” speech when he closed the distance and, from about an inch from my face, stated that, “I’m going to show you how tough you’re not.”

I ordered the soldier back and before I knew what was happening, I sensed his fist coming up between our bodies toward my jaw. I rode off the strike which landed before I could evade and then backed out as he began to flail widely with both arms at my head and body. I remember taking up a hoko-like position (a guarding posture in ninjutsu designed to create a protective ‘bubble’ that is difficult for the attacker to get through) to cover against the incoming attacks and having to simultaneously deal with an officer who thought that I was the one doing the attacking!

At one point, I realized that his right arm had wrapped around my left forearm and that a ‘musha-dori-like thing’ (uplifting elbow - shoulder dislocating technique) was happening. I remember moving to capture his balance and laid him down when suddenly his feet went out from under him. Later I found out that, in an attempt to help, my partner chose that moment to sweep my assailant’s legs out from under him. I felt the soldier’s shoulder give way as I applied the lock and took him down. This didn’t help with the anxiety and emotional pressure I was dealing with as I was now worried about a possible ‘police brutality’ charge for excessive force.

This injury didn’t deter his aggression though as he continued to fight against our restraint. We were finally able to subdue him and get him onto his stomach to be handcuffed when his wife and young child entered the building. I don’t know how they found out about the situation but there they were. I felt sad for them and was only able to give a look of apology for having to do this. Again, more stress was added in that I didn’t want to have to physically hurt this man in front of his family.

Unfortunately, their presence only served to escalate the problem. When the soldier became aware of his wife and child, he blamed my partner and I for his “embarrassment” and began to fight against his restraint again. I am not a big man and this soldier’s build was easily 150% of my own size and weight, so holding him was a serious problem. Having to improvise and immobilize the man, I placed my night stick between the handcuff chain and his back and applied leverage against his spine which created a situation where he would only hurt himself with his continued resistance. This was only necessary for a moment or two, as he passes out from his exertion.

As I related during my initial telling of the story at the Hombu Dojo (’main training hall’0 in Noda-city, Japan, my legs begin to shake and I can feel my breathing change as I recall this situation and many others like it. It does not control me or the way I go through my life in the ordinary sense that I am not afraid to associate with people or the like. What it has done is imprinted on me much more than just a step-by-step memory of the events, and I’m sure that my recollection of these is less than accurate because the experience was much more emotional and from what Soke has called “budo-nerves” orientation or perspective than from any sort of memorized technique string.

I will simply end this by saying that, this situation is one that has forever changed my perspective on how I should train, and as a teacher, how I should train my students. It has taught me that kata-like, step-by-step training is only a piece of the training puzzle but, anyone who believes that they will fight this way is deluding themselves. Conversely, it has also taught me that training that is just henka-based, where the basics like cover, distance and the like are not drilled until they become second-nature and the student just “does whatever” in an attempt to imitate (his or her teacher) is also deluded. This type of practice is necessary but, again, only a piece.

I am in complete agreement with Soke when he points out that it is the ability to go between the animal instinct response required for surviving an attack and returning to the civilized state to live a happy life, unstained by fear, defensiveness or antisocial behavior because of the attack that should be the goal.

Let me also say that, I respect Soke and the Shihan master instructors that I train with. But, not simply because they are Soke and the Shihan. I respect these people and continue to train in this art precisely because my own experience with having to handle danger tells me that what they have to offer is authentic and “on the mark” with that experience. Because I know that should I ever be attacked again, it will be the lessons that I have learned from them and not my admiration of them or their abilities that will help to insure that my family gets to have me around a little while longer. In a world filled with martial artists and instructors who want trophies, admiration and to ‘look good,’ it is comforting to know that there are still those who have what the true warrior needs to create a life worth living and the power to protect that life from whatever might harm it.

About the Author

Jeffrey Miller is the founder and master instructor of Warrior Concepts International. He is the author of “The Karate-Myth” and the Danger Prevention Tactics video, among others. For more info, subscribe to his ezine here.

Must Count Martial Arts Announces new Internet marketing strategy for firm
Must Count, a Self defense - Self Protection company updates its web marketing program

Matt Ewin vs. Martin Kampmann Confirmed As The Main Event For Cagewarriors Strike Force 2 - UK vs. the World
The Cagewarriors Fighting Championships are proud to announce that Danish star Martin Kampmann will replace Damien Riccio in the Main Event of Cagewarriors Strike Force 2 at the Skydome Arena in Coventry on July 16th

Popularity: unranked [?]

Are You Available to Teach?
Whether you own a studio or simply want to work from your home, teaching workshops to schools, hospitals, and at corporate retreats is very profitable, and a great way to build your business.

Ten Things You Should Know about Martial Arts Summer Camps for Kids

Would you like to see your child gain self-confidence, learn goal setting skills, concentrate, gain self-discipline, and acquire life skills that he or she will have for a lifetime? Of course you do; we all want the best for our children.

A Martial Arts Summer Camp is a complete success enhancement program for your child, which will challenge his or her mind and body. Here are just ten of the many benefits you can expect your child to receive in just one summer.

Concentration: Your child will learn to increase his or her attention span. Focusing is major problem for children; especially for boys, but martial arts are completely filled with concentration drills.

Stress Management: Kids are taught how to constructively deal with stress. Just by getting some physical activity, behavior will improve when children come home. Without recess and physical education, children have a lot of “bottled up” energy.

Self-Discipline: Your child is taught how to set priorities and get ahead. Children have to multi-task, but martial arts training will give them perseverance and the ability to prioritize their daily lives for success.

Respect: Your child will demonstrate courtesy and respect at home. How? Once he or she practices courtesy and respect all day - this habit will be carried home.

Anger Management: We provide a safe outlet for dealing with anger. Kicking and punching bags is very safe, if supervised by a qualified martial arts instructor. This allows kids to “blow off some steam,” without hurting themselves.

Motivation: Your child will be inspired to achieve. Positive energy is rampant, within a martial arts setting, and this inspires children to excel in every aspect of their lives. As you already know, motivation is what turns dreamers into achievers.

Self-Defense: Every child will learn physical and non-physical self defense. As a by-product of attending a martial arts intensive, such as a kid’s summer camp, every child can adequately protect him or herself.

Total Fitness: Children receive a complete workout every day they attend a martial arts summer camp. It is not natural for children to sit in front of a television set all day. It is much healthier for them to run, kick, jump, and yell. This also helps them sleep better, too.

Time Management: Your child will learn many time saving drills that make your life easier. Children need to have structure and order gently reinforced, so that it can be ingrained within their consciousness.

Goal Setting: This is contagious in a Martial Arts atmosphere. When your child earns his or her first colored belt, he or she realizes goals by continually putting forth effort. This skill is also applied to an academic setting for maximum success.

These are ten of the many life skills your child, will gain from a Martial Arts Summer Camp.

? Copyright 2006 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

About the Author

Paul Jerard is director of Yoga teacher training at Aura in RI. He’s a master instructor of martial arts and Yoga. He teaches that along with fitness. He wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? For Yoga students who want to be a teacher.
http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

Karate - Benefits and Bonuses
Karate has many benefits, but also has hidden bonuses. For a child the benefits are numerous. Many pre-school age children are able to participate in karate where they couldn’t in any other sport because of their age and ability.

Gong Lik (Forward Energy)
Gong Lik is generally translated as Forward Energy or Forward Press and is a well known energetic used in many of the Martial Arts but how it is used and executed varies between the different individual Arts.

Popularity: unranked [?]

Tatami flooring for Yoga, Martial Arts and Judo schools

InterlockingFloormat.com is expanding their partnership with all Yoga, Martial Arts, Judo, Karate, Aikido, Tae Kuan Do, and exercise schools. The partnership program will promote all Yoga and Martial Arts schools on its partner webpage. All instructors and studios background, website and contact information are introduced on their page .

InterlockingFloormat.com is expanding their partnership with all Yoga, Martial Arts, Judo, Karate, Aikido, Tae Kuan Do, and exercise schools. The partnership program will promote all Yoga and Martial Arts schools on its partner webpage. All instructors and studios background, website and contact information are introduced on their page .

This is a free marketing opportunity to promote your exercise school in a high traffic website and increase your yoga and martial arts instructors reputation. Interlockingfloormat.com is also providing risk free interlocking floor mat sample for all yoga and exercise partner in the program. If any partner is interested to resell or promote the interlocking floor mat for their students, they can receive very aggressive resell pricing or rebate. All partners can increase extra income by introducing a gorgeous interlocking floor mat to their students and earn it without extra effort.
See these existing partners in http://www.interlockingfloormat.com/partners.htm
InterlockingFloorMat.com is a manufacturer-direct distributor and wholesaler for EVA form mats. Their interlocking puzzle mat products include tatami style mats and educational music puzzle mat. These products are widely using at home, yoga studios, fitness centers, martial arts, Judo, Karate, Aikido, Tae Kuan Do and exercise schools. With high quality EVA foam material and cutting edge technology, these interlocking puzzle mats provide a safe, comfortable, waterproof, anti-fatigue soft-tile for businesses and homes. Please visit www.interlockingfloormat.com for detail.

Marketing Department
Partners@interlocingfloormat.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

ESPNEWS will broadcast Chuck Liddell weighing in for UFC 71 while wearing his UFC Signature Series shirt available at Soliscompany.com.
Chuck Liddell prepares for UFC 71 wearing the UFC Signature Series shirt he helped design. The entire Signature Series collection is available Soliscompany.com. ESPNEWS will broadcast the event on May 25 at 4PM PST.

Qinna (Chin-Na) Seminar in Maryland, March 25
Qinna workshop in Maryland by Master Willy Lin. Qinna (Chin-Na) is the Chinese martial art of joint locking.

Popularity: unranked [?]

The Importance Of Having The Right Training Gear When Competing In Mixed Martial Arts
Having the right training gear is obviously very important for practicing all forms of martial arts. If you want to be the best fighter you can be, it’s important that you combine the best training equipment with a attitude of persistence.

The Baroni - Shamrock Saga Is About To Come To A Head
Despite what the record books will eventually show, the real Shamrock vs. Baroni fight started years ago. The showdown to their fight on Friday, June 22 is the continuation of an on going verbal, and sometimes visual, battle between the two.

Is All This Martial Arts Training Gear Necessary?

*Please note: While this piece was written directed at parents of youth members, adult students should keep all of the relevant safety points in mind. Remember: Safety and vigilance are not ‘things’ to do. They are constant states of mind.

Occasionally, a staff member or I will have a parent come to us with something like: “This past year, my daughter grew six inches and gained 50 pounds. As a result, I had to buy protective gear twice. It’s so expensive and she is heading for another growth spurt. Is all this equipment necessary?”

The answer, honestly, is Yes! You see, a lot more is changing than height and weight. We as parents and teachers easily notice the emotional and physical changes in children as they grow older, however, the mental and skeletal changes we can’t see are just as important and unpredictable. During growth spurts, the bones are growing quicker than the muscles and tendons.

Even as they reach their full height, their skeletal and muscular systems are not fully developed making them vulnerable to injury. During the growth spurts, your child will probably be less coordinated until he or she adjusts to the physical change. This is normal, but can cause injuries if protective gear does not fit properly.

Are you considering buying a larger size so it lasts longer? Please keep in mind that mouth guards are relatively inexpensive, especially considering the protection they offer. Make sure they fit properly and replace them with new ones as needed. Head gear should always fit properly. Tight head gear may cause headaches, but loose head gear my slip and blind a child momentarily from an oncoming punch or not offer the protection where needed. As children advance in martial arts, the foot and hand gear will usually wear out before it can be outgrown. If the foot gear is a little large, consider wearing padded insteps for a better fit. Be certain the fingers fit in the hand gears’ finger tabs.

Periodically check the equipment at all flex or stress points for wear; this is any place the gear bends, flexes or has an air hole. If you have any questions about fit or wear, ask your child’s instructor.

Also, take advantage of the academy’s sales and let friends and relatives know during gift giving holidays like birthdays and Christmas, etc. if there is something they can order from the school that your son or daughter might need.

It not only helps you to keep your child’s gear in top-notch shape, but also shows your child that other members of the family, like grandparents, aunts and uncles, etc. are just as involved and supported of the training as you are.

Also, to assist in preventing bone and muscle injuries during growth spurts, be certain your child warms-up and then stretches before any physical activity. Have them stop if stabbing pain occurs (aching and burning is natural as the muscles are taken to greater ranges).

Stabbing pain is not normal and can cause serious injury. Train your child to avoid continuous repetitious motions that can affect growth development. Call your health care provider with any questions or concerns you may have.

Above all, be mindfully aware of safety and the steps needed to protect your most precious assets - the lives of yourself and those you love!

About the Author

Read more like this by subscribing to the author’s newsletter here For seminar & media requests, call (570) 988-2228 or go to his website at www.warrior-concepts-online.com

Pyramid of Threats: Realistic Self-Defense Goals
There are many different reasons to begin training in the martial arts. But whatever your reason, self-defense was probably at least part of it. And if this is the case, it’s probably a good idea to consider what you can hope to accomplish through your training.

Popularity: unranked [?]

Bollywood Movie Review - Lage Raho Munnabhai
Okay fingers up, how many of you have seen this movie? May not be a blockbuster or a box office hit hindi movie but it is definitely worth a watch. Perhaps more than once. Why? Just imagine, Sanjay Dutt tackling his enemy by following the principles of Mahatma Gandhi. For the uninitiated, he is a beefcaked bollywood actor with a really mean mafia look who looks like a former Brisbane Lions regular player. I was refering to the former of course. This is definitely one of my favourite movies as the story, screenplay and entertainment factors are brought up very well. This movie goes down as one of the most meaningful movies in Indian film industry. The essence of the movie is about applying the teachings of Gandhi in today’s world and downright hilariousness is ensured from the pairing of Arshad Warsi and Sanjay Dutt. Hahaha… watch it. No seriously… watch it. Story: This is the second installment to the Munnabhai MBBS movie series. The kind hearted don, Munnabhai (played by Sanjay Dutt), researches day and night on Mahatma Gandhi in order to impress the lady of his dreams and that is when Gandhi appears in front of him either as a soul or a figment of Munnabhais hallucination. An adventure then starts in a meaningful way for him where he learns how to deal with people and their problems by applying Gandhis principles. Screenplay: Perhaps the sole challenge of the movie is the application of Gandhis philosophy to solve todays people related problems and it is carried out so well in the movie. The comic timing of Sanjay Dutt and Arshad Warsi is flawless. Boman Irani, in his typical fashion of doing something different in each movie, contributes further to the comedy by portraying a very stereotypical image of a Sardar. Even though the comedy does justice to the entertainment factor on a high scale, it does not deviate from the central theme and is able to deliver all the messages beautifully. Cinematography: Cinematography is done fairly well according to a typical Indian movie standard. Video Editing: There is not much video editing for the movie since there is no need for it. It is mainly focused in songs, especially in the Pal Pal song sang by Bollywood melody queen, Shreya Ghoshal.

- Thanaseelan, click on <a target="_new" href="http://www.worthofwordplay.blogspot.com">http://www.worthofwordplay.blogspot.com</a> to view his main blog. Don't forget to check out the categories on his blog.

A Martial Artist’s View of Jet Li’s Latest & Last Martial Arts Film: “Fearless”

There must have been only a dozen people attending the Florida showing of Jet Li?s latest and reportedly last martial arts film, ?Fearless.?

But numbers lie, because you can?t judge how ?boffo? this film is from its box office numbers.

This is gem, I?m sure you?ll agree, when you see it.

In this movie, Li?s character is descended from a father who could have been the martial arts champ of his province, if he hadn?t shown mercy and followed through with a punch he had already expertly launched at his adversary?s heart.

Li swore that he would redeem the family honor and win the title that eluded Papa.

As he journeys toward greatness, Li learns many things about love, life, revenge, and honor, and we see him mature as a martial artist and as a hero.

This movie is masterful at examining the role of restraint in a warrior?s life; a theme I have written quite a lot about, lately. Let me say, by the time the end of the movie is achieved, a great harmony between a battler?s motivations is consummated, almost improbably, but witnessing this outcome is very moving.

I suppose I knew that this was Li?s last contribution to martial arts films, and touched by this cinematic farewell as well as by the tightly woven story, I found myself immobilized as the credits ran.

Though you?ll see some good action and intense swordplay and wire-assisted leaps, this offering is more about internal strength than anything else.

You might see it and conclude as I did, that Li is the real deal, and most important, he leaves his fans and sometimes overly enthusiastic brawlers with more to ponder than their speed or athleticism.

He shows that the martial arts are a noble and humane endeavor, and their true aim is the perfection of character.

Karate - General Background
Karate, or Karate-do, loosely translates empty hand (”kara” means empty and “te” means hand). This art is indeed predominantly concerned with fighting with bare hands and feet. The basic principle is to turn the body into an effective weapon to defend and attack when and where it is appropriate. History:
Karate is one of the most widely practised of the oriental martial arts. It evolved during one of the Japanese occupations of the island of Okinawa, part of the Ryukyu chain of islands, in the 15th century. Its roots, however, can be traced back much further than this - all the way back to ancient India. Many people hold the view that what we regard today as the oriental martial arts have their roots in India. In fact, when we look at such disciplines as yoga and the breathing techniques that originated in India, there does seem to be a great similarity between those and many of the modern martial arts systems. Zen Buddhist monks took the Indian fighting techniques to China from as early as the 5th century BC. Bodhidharma, an Indian monk, travelled at the end of the 5th century AD from India to China, where he became an instructor at the Shaolin monastery. He taught a combination of empty hand fighting systems and yoga. This became the well-known Shaolin Kong Fu - the system on which many Chinese martial arts systems are based. In 1470, the Japanese had occupied the island of Okinawa. The law of the land dictated that anybody found carrying weapons would be put to death. In order to protect themselves from local bandits, who largely ignored the prohibition on weapons, Zen Buddhist monks developed the empty hand system known as “te”, importing new techniques from China. Eventually the new art was translated as “t’ang” (China hand), but was familiarly known as “Okinawa-te” (Okinawa hand). It was not until the 20th century that t’ang became known as Karate-do. The suffix do was added by Gichin Funakoshi’s son Yoshitaka Funakoshi, in friendly opposition to his father’s Okinawa-te style. Practice and demonstrations until that time had been extremely violent. Punches were not pulled and full contact was an integral part of the Okinawa-te style. Yoshitaka Funakoshi transformed the techniques of Okinawa-te into a gentler system, seeking not to deliver blows fully, but to focus strikes at skin level. The do suffix expressed the move away from the aim of the warrior and towards physical and spiritual development. Styles:
There are numerous styles of karate practised. Wado Ryu and Shotokan are just 2 of them. Other popular systems include Shinto Ryu, developed in 1948, and now one of the main systems in the world. It is also important to realise that the various styles of Karate are the results of the personal ideas of many individuals about how each basic technique should be carried out or applied. The different techniques within the styles of Karate also dictate whether strength, speed, hand or leg techniques are emphasised. Competitive Karate:
Karate has been a self defense system and a form of physical exercise. The competitive and sporting elements have a further part to play in the individual’s enjoyment of this activity. It is because of the possibility of participation in competition that many people take up this art. Competition is not the only reason for engaging in this art. It is possible to learn Karate without participating in competitions, however for some people, competition provides motivation and stimulation for training. The sense of achievement that comes from just taking part can be carried over into everyday life.

- Thanaseelan, click on <a target="_new" href="http://www.worthofwordplay.blogspot.com">http://www.worthofwordplay.blogspot.com</a> to view his main blog. Don't forget to check out the categories on his blog.

Popularity: unranked [?]

Suggestions for Getting the Best Martial Arts Training - Attending Ninja Camps and Seminars

One of the many things that can stop someone with a heartfelt desire to study authentic martial arts under a qualified teacher is…

…the teacher or program is nowhere near where they live.

I can certainly relate to the distance that one must travel to get the training you want. I, for one, have always made it a point that, if I wanted something of value, I was willing to do whatever it took to get THAT thing. In the early days of my training in the martial art of Ninjutsu, I had to travel great distances, especially during my time with the US Army while stationed in such places as North Carolina and the then West Germany.

Many people find it difficult to believe that the closest that I ever found myself to my teacher’s school was… 9 HOURS! That was, of course, driving one-way.

Now that I’m a tenth degree Black Belt, I do most of my training in Japan (which I am required to do once each year as a minimum). That means that I have to…

…drive 1 to 4 hours to an airport…

…fly (if it’s non-stop) for 14 hours to Japan, and then…

…ride trains for about 2 hours or so to get to where I’m staying…

…BEFORE I can begin training.

And, where many of my students complain about spending hundreds of dollars on training - I spend THOUSANDS - EACH time I go for training!!!

Many of the prospective students who contact me for training are only one or two hour’s drive from my academy. I have several other students who drive that, and farther - some as far away as Canada - on a regular basis. One of these students does this an average of once a week to do private training or seminars with me. That’s not devotion, and it’s not loyalty (he has access to other teachers much closer to him). That is, however; a man who is true to his desire to get what he needs to become the person that he wants to be!

As I see it, you have three choices (settling for getting “good-enough” training from a local school notwithstanding)…

You can…

1) Continue to wait for “someday”…

2) Watch for, and attend events like Camps, Seminars, perhaps augmenting that with videos, books, articles, and the like, deciding that you will at-least train at this level, or…

3) Do whatever you must to live true to yourself and take control of the only life you have. If you truly want the confidence, power, and control that comes from this art and philosophy that is out there…

… you must get the ball rolling. No one else can do it for you.

The choice, as always, is yours.

About the Author

Jeffrey M. Miller is the founder and director of Warrior Concepts International in Sunbury, Pennsylvania. He hosts annual Spring and Fall Ninja Training Camps as well as a full schedule of seminars. Subscribe to his newsletter

Shotokan Karate - General Background
History: Shotokan is both a young and an . It is ancient because its roots are deeply entrenched in the past, and young because, as it is expressed today, it is an art that is less than a 100 years old. Shotokan is characterised by its long and low stances, its powerful techniques and its dynamic forms. The founder of Shotokan, Gichin Funakoshi, was an Okinawan. He trained in the oldest of the Okinawan te (hand) systems as a young man and in the early 20th century brought what he had learned in the island of Okinawa to mainland Japan, where he demonstrated his art before the Emperor. He originally intended to return to Okinawa but was persuaded to to remain and continue teaching in Japan. Funakoshi’s pen name was Shoto (waving pines) and kan (hall). Hence Shotokan can be translated to mean “Shoto’s hall of the way of the empty hand”. While Funakoshi was the originator of Shotokan, it was really his son, Yoshitaka Funakoshi, who developed it into the form we know today. It rapidly grew in popularity, supported, encouraged and regulated by the powerful Japan Karate Association. Before long, it was to be found all over the world. Triads: Shotokan is built on what are known as triads, which are both real organisations and metaphors for something much deeper within the human psyche. There exists the physical triad of kihon (basics), kumite (sparring) and kata (forms), which require dedicated training and the constant perfecting of technique. This is followed by the moral triad of justice, mercy and compassion and finally by the ethical triad of duty, honour and loyalty. If we put all of the 9 triad principles together (9 symbolises perfection) we achieve the whole, rounded person. When these principles are practised in a martial art, they illustrate one of the fundamental concepts of Shotokan, as advocated by the founder, Gichin Funakoshi. His aim was to focus on the development of the human character as a whole being, rather than on winning and losing. Significance: While Shotokan is a wonderful form of relaxation or sport for many people, for those who practise it seriously it has a much deeper and wider significance. This deeper realisation, however, can only come after years of dedicated practice. While this is a dimension of the art that emerges rather slowly, Shotokan can still be enjoyed at all levels by hundreds of thousands of people throughout the world.

- Thanaseelan, click on <a target="_new" href="http://www.worthofwordplay.blogspot.com">http://www.worthofwordplay.blogspot.com</a> to view his main blog. Don't forget to check out the categories on his blog.

Kenshiro Abbe Sensei 50th Celebrations
THE KENSHIRO ABBE 50th CELEBRATION EVENT
14th May 2005 Crystal Palace Sports Centre London. UK
By Henry Ellis

Henry Ellis, a direct student of the legendary Budo master Kenshiro Abbe Sensei, from 1957 describes the great event at the Crystal Palace Sports Centre, London, to celebrate this great teacher and his arrival to Great Britain in 1955 and the subsequent inception of Aikido. Tribute website to Kenshiro Abbe Sensei at http://www.KenshiroAbbe.com . . .

The Bushido ZaZen International Society Annual Dinner

In February 2004 Derek Eastman and I were invited as guests at the annual dinner of The Bushido Za Zen International Society by its Chairman Mr Arnold Davies Hanshi an old student of Kenshiro Abbe Sensei and a close friend of my own good friend Bill Woods Sensei. These names alone meant that this evening was to be something special with so much history and martial arts background between us.

As we arrived we were met by Mr Clive MacDonald, a member of the Bushido ZaZen. Mr MacDonald and Mr Davies had been instrumental in putting together many of the facts to help with the protection of the true history of British Aikido during the great British Aikido Board Controversy.

Memories of Kenshiro Abbe Sensei

Mr MacDonald immediately brought several pints of beer to our table and from then on the conversation flowed along with the beer. As we spoke of our memories of the legendary master, Kenshiro Abbe Sensei, I said ” Do you realize that it is 50 years next year since Abbe Sensei arrived in Britain ! “. We all discussed the importance of this date, I then suggested that, as we all belonged to the Essex Aikido Forum ( EAF ), which is a group of like minded people interested only in Aikido without its politics, we agreed that we should organise a celebration of such an important date. Mr MacDonald called over Mr Davies who, without a moments hesitation, gave the event his full support and financial backing.

The Organising Committee

Before the evening was over we realised that this event would be bigger than anything ever previously organised by the EAF or any other Aikido organisation for that matter. We decided there and then that we would need a working committee if we were to put this very special event together. Mr MacDonald approached two other senior EAF member, Mr Mike Leavy and Mr Eric Gillett, who agreed to join our organising committee. I then approached Mr David Humm the administrator of the very popular website the ” National Aikido Communication DataBase ” . Mr Humm had also been involved in our efforts to protect the history of British Aikido. He also became a willing committee member. Mr Rob Peck agreed to be the secretary We now had a full committee of seven members who were now totally committed and dedicated to putting together the greatest Aikido seminar ever in the United Kingdom. I don’t believe that any one of us on this night were able to grasp the enormity of the task we had pledged to undertake.

The Venue

As the word spread throughout the Aikido and MartialArts communities and, from the interest that was now being generated, we now knew that we would need a prestigious venue After much deliberation and following a visit to Crystal Palace Sports Centre, we soon realised that this was to be the final venue. This was to be a wise decision as, with its great hall and facilities along with the accommodation blocks and restaurants, It would later prove to be capable of hosting the planned event comfortably. The event attracted 430 students. 60 guests, 370 spectators and visitors totalling almost one thousand people on the day With students from all over the UK — USA — France — Holland — Germany, Czechoslvakia.

The Teachers of the Day

As this day was to celebrate the arrival in the UK of Kenshiro Abbe Sensei in 1955, and the subsequent inception of Aikido. It was decided to invite the five surviving direct students of Abbe Sensei from the 1950’s/60’s mentioned below.

I, Henry Ellis and Derek Eastman had already agreed, now I had to approach my old friends, Sensei Ralph Reynolds and Sensei Hayden Foster, who willingly offered their support.

Sensei Ken Williams, first student of Abbe Sensei, was also approached. He had to decline due to prior commitments. He did however provided a letter of dedication to be read out at the event. I then approached Sensei Bill Smith Shihan MBE, who sadly had to decline due to health issues. His son Phillip attended to represent his father and the AikiKai. Now we had a full Aikido teaching team. The event was officially under-way. We also received a letter of tribute to the memory of Abbe Sensei from the Doshu Moriteru Ueshiba ..

The Guests

The guest list was a who’s who of the Martial-Arts world in the UK. There were 60 guests and, with respect, I am unable to mention them all but, the following will give some insight.

Mr F Motai of the Japanese Embassy — Sensei Bill Woods Aide / Secretary to Kenshiro Abbe Sensei 1955 - Sensei Bill Stopps, Personal Aide to Matsutaro Otani Sensei from 1947. - Sensei Robin Otani, Pesident of the British Judo Council. - Mr P, Don of Sport England. - Sensei N Jones, my personal guest. - Ms Jenny Earle, World Judo champion.

Mr Ken Cottier Shihan, a member of the Aiki-Kai World Council. Mr Gigs Shouten, a special guest from Holland. Joe Curran Sensei who read a letter of tribute to Abbe Sensei from Kazuo Chiba Shihan.

The Budo Demonstrations

During the mid day part of the event there was a break for the students while the Budo demonstrations were carried out by some of the very best exponents of the various arts on display. This was a unique event where students were now able to witness many of the Budo arts that they had never seen before.

Aikido -Judo — Karate — Iaido — Kyudo — Kendo — JuJutsu — Ju Kendo

The Event and The Day

This was a very wonderful and special day for me after almost 50 years of practicing Aikido. On the morning of the event as I entered the great hall at Crystal Palace Sports Centre to the electrifying sound of the Taiko Drummers and masses of students around the mat area plus many more queuing at the door to register. I walked onto the concourse floor to see all the various stalls set out. Mr Don Baney a specialist in Japanese works of art had a fine display of Samurai armour and swords, for more information visit: http://www.geocities.com/britishaikido/japanese_swords.htm The atmosphere was fantastic, an indication of the great day ahead. I met so many people that I had not seen for so many years.

There was a raffle at the end of the day with a prized valuable ShinKen sword, presented by Nine Circles Budo Equipment Supplies. A hand made Tanto presented by Sensei Dave Rogers of New Mexic,o USA. Other prizes included the book ” Positive Aikido”, Gi’s, bokkens, shinai’s and many commemorative T-Shirts.

This was indeed a very special day.

I was privileged to be at the great event in 1963 held by Abbe Sensei at the Royal Albert Hall in London where I was assistant to Mikoto Nakazono Sensei. I never thought that I would ever see another event to equal that one. On this day of celebration and commemoration of the life of Abbe Sensei, I believe I saw the event to eclipse all others.

Henry Ellis Event Liasion Officer
Co-Author of Positive Aikido
Principal Coach Ellis Schools of Traditional Aikido
http://www.EllisAikido.org
http://www.geocities.com/britishAikido

Henry Ellis born 1936. Co -author of Positive Aikido. A direct student of the legendary Budo master Kenshiro Abbe Sensei from 1957. Ellis has had articles published in several International Martial Arts magazines, he has written several articles on the proud history and lineage of British Aikido. Protecting the legacy left by Abbe Sensei from those that have attempted to alter the facts to advance their insatiable ego’s.

No copyright on this article..
Henry Ellis co-author of Positive Aikido and the Principal Coach of the Ellis SChools of Traditional Aikido UK - USA.. He is a direct student from 1957 of the legendary Budo master Kenshiro Abbe Sensie. Ellis has written many articles on the history and lineage of British Aikido, several articles have been published in International Martial Arts magazines.

Popularity: unranked [?]

The Cagewarriors Fighting Championships Announces A Date For Their Rescheduled Ultimate Force 2 Show
Cagewarriors are proud to announce that the previously postponed “Ultimate Force 2″ Ultimate Fighting/Mixed Martial Arts show has been rescheduled and will take place at the Doncaster Dome in South Yorkshire, England on October 15th

Choosing a Self Defense / Martial Arts School: a Parent’s Guide

Daddy, I want to take Karate!

Mommy, Jimmy on the bus hit me again today

There are many reasons why parents want to sign their children up for Self Defense or Martial Arts classes. Once you have made the decision, now you are faced with many different options and questions. What style? How much does it cost? Is my child to young?

Martial Arts and Self Defense Styles

There are as many different styles of Martial Arts as there are religions in the world. You have probably heard of Karate, Tae Kwon Do, Jujitsu, and even Aikido, but there are still numerous styles and offshoots of the Major styles.

So what Style is the Best and what style should I choose?

In reality, it is this authors opinion that the style of Martial Arts your child will learn is not that important. What is important is the method of teaching and training that your child will undergo. With Martial Arts training your child should learn self-discipline, self-respect, and self-esteem, along with the confidence and ability to defend themselves.

The Instructor, (or Sensei) is the key. I suggest that all parents visit several locations with their children to observe the Instructor at work. Make sure you visit a beginners class as well as an upper level class. The beginners class is where your child will start.

Does the instructors personality and philosophy match your morals and ideals? Does the class participate in any Eastern Religious practice that doesnt match your faith? Do you want your child viewing this instructor as a role model? Most children will look up to their Martial Arts & Self Defense Instructors as role models and will be in awe of their skills and abilities. Make sure that this person who will be dealing with your children matches your values.

It is also important to view an upper level class. The beginner classes are usually very tame, and the teaching philosophy is tailored to a younger audience. However, the older the student is, the real teaching and training methods are put into effect. You may feel comfortable with how the instructor teaches the younger beginning students, but may not be comfortable with how they handle the older students.

Cost

The majority of Martial Arts & Self Defense Locations (or Dojos) run their business on a membership basis. Customers must sign contracts, where they are obligated to pay for a certain time period to participate. The locations are run like a gym membership, you pay for a certain length of time and may participate as often as you desire.

Unfortunately, rarely are the hidden costs discussed when signing up for a class or membership. What are the hidden costs? The most over looked cost is the testing fee. In Martial Arts there are numerous skill levels that are equated to a belt rank. After a certain period of time and training, the student is ready to advance to a new level or belt in their martial arts style, and a belt test will be performed. This belt test almost always required the student to pay a belt-testing fee. I have seen fees from $50 up to $500 depending on the belt rank. Parents, make sure you inquire about these fees and are comfortable with them before you sign any contract.

Another hidden cost is required items to purchase. Some locations require that you purchase a uniform with the schools logo. The average cost of these uniforms range from $30-$50. As the child advances in rank, protective sparring gear is required. Now this is normally mandatory for the childs protection and safety, but can be expensive. Normal safety gear for Martial Arts consists of Foot Pads, Hand Pads, Head Gear, Mouth Piece, Groin Cup, and optional Spar Vest. Depending on the style and sizes all this gear together cost about $150 retail or higher.

So Parents, factor in the total cost of classes, testing fees, and required equipment when making your decisions.

Age

At what age should my child begin Martial Arts or Self Defense? Now this is an often-debated issue. I have seen children as young as 4 years old participate in Martial Arts or Self Defense training. Some have been successful while others it was just to young. The age of which a child should start Martial Arts or Self Defense classes should be judged on an individual basis and be determined by the parents. Some key points to consider. Does the child have a good attention span? Has the child participated and flourished in other group activities? Is the child comfortable in larger group settings?

If the child is currently enrolled in grade school and has no problem adapting to those settings or conditions then they should be considered old enough to participate and benefit from Martial Arts or Self Defense instruction.

Solis Releases Chuck Liddell, The Iceman Affliction Signature Tee in UFC 71
Chuck Liddell, “the Iceman”,” releases his new Affliction UFC Signature Series at Solis, www.soliscompany.com. Liddell is the current Lightweight Champion of the world for the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Chuck Liddell defends his title on May 26, 2007 at the MGM in Las Vegas in UFC 71.

Popularity: unranked [?]

The Karate Secret No One Wants You To Know
Have you seen the History Channel’s new show Human Weapon yet? Its pretty friggen good.

Learn Ninja Secrets
To learn Ninja secrets you need to be prepared to apply them to the modern world. Your everyday life should be filled with practicing the Ninja secrets which you learn.

The History of Muay Thai
A brief history of the formation and development of Muay Thai. With origins in Thailand, Muay Thai is a popular sport in many Eastern countries.

Emotion-Based Defensive Response - A Non-Traditional Martial Arts Approach to Self-Defense

When discussing self-defense training, we really need to be discussing more than just learning some tricks and techniques for dodging punches or escaping locks and holds. Why then, are most instructors content with stopping at, and most students satisfied with learning, self-defense in a vaccuum?

Well, I have my own beliefs, mostly involving the fact that most have never been in a real-world self-preservation situation with an assailant out to do maximum damage with any technique or weapon they choose. Basically…

… they don’t know any better.

In this issue, I want to look at a foundational idea that the rest of our training philosophies should take into account if we are to prepare ourselves in the most efficient and effective way possible.

First, we need to consider the learning curve of the average human being. When we think about how we learn best, aside from the methods that we might have been exposed to along the way, it becomes obvious that the “natural” way to learn can be seen in the following pattern:

Do - Think - Feel

That is, the most effecient and effective learning model for most of us is to:

* Do the ‘thing’ in a hands-on fashion.

* Think about the ‘thing’ - work at understanding what makes it ‘tick’ and how it can be used - it’s impact and use for us.

* Have an emotional response - we either like-it, don’t like-it, or it doesn’t matter.

So, what’s the problem you might ask. That’s the way martial artists train in just about every dojo or training center around.

The problem is that…

… the above formula is only half the equation!

The problem is that, we may learn best this way but, we operate very differently when under stress. I don’t mean just danger, but any time stress factors play on us. Whether we’re talking about fear, sadness, happiness, or whatever, we simply operate in a different way than we learn. And, this must be accounted for in the learning curve or we will simply be unprepared for a real-life encounter with an attacker.

The difference that I’m speaking of is really an exact opposite of the learning formula. When under stress, human beings operate by the formula:

Feel - Think - Do

This means that in a life-threatening situation we will:

* Have an emotional reaction - to the type of attack, the assailant, the environment, rules and regulations that we are bound by, and a hundred other factors.

* Access memories, beliefs, and mental functions - and then, based on what we think about the situation and what we know…

* We go into action - and do the best we can with what we know.

To say that the formulas are different, is more than an understatement.

What are we to do with this information? How can it help us to better train to be prepared for a life-saving situation?

Quite simply - we can make sure that we are producing and working under a particular emotional mode when training for self defense. This will require a training atmosphere akin to that used by actors-in-training than what we are typically used to seeing in a martial arts academy.

The Four Base Emotions

The human being enters the world with four base emotional triggers that, based on future stimuli and the addition of the higher mental functions, combine to produce the many emotions themselves. But, from a primative, self-preservation perspective, it is these 4 base impulses that we will concern ourself.

The four base emotional responses to stress are:

* Confident, stability - we’re basically unmoved by the threat, because there is no perceived threat.

* Defensive repulsion - we are overwhelmed by the source of the impulse and instinctively cover our targets or pull away to a safer distance.

* Aggressiveness - we quickly move in to take control of the situation.

* Evasiveness, avoiding - we sidestep or evade the problem, seeking primarily to completely avoid having to deal with the problem at all.

While there have been countless martial arts and self-defense systems that have been designed around a particular emotional response mode, no one mode is right or wrong in and of itself. Each one is an option to be channelled and used as a tool, if only we knew how.

About the Author

Jeffrey Miller is the founder and master instructor of Warrior Concepts International. He is the author of “The Karate-Myth” and the Danger Prevention Tactics video, among others. For more info, subscribe to his ezine here.

Popularity: unranked [?]

Martial Arts Film Star Karen Sheperd Headed to Atlantic City
“The Karate Diva” Karen Sheperd heads to the Mega Martial Arts Expo in January 2005

An evolutionary Quantum Leap in precision Martial Arts training equipment

Are You Looking For A New Way To Improve Your Martial Arts?

Imagine for a minute that you have a home personal martial arts training partner that works tirelessly to teach you only the best techniques. A martial arts dummy on which you can practice and learn what strikes and defences work for you.

Imagine having this martial arts training device available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day and who can take everything you’ve got, so you never have to hold back - all day, every day.

Imagine having this advantage in your training - a partner who will not hesitate to strike back if there is any opening or gap in your defences.

Well it is not just a dream anymore, it is a reality in the Martialarm Martial Arts Machine.

Up Until Now We Have Not Had A Realistic Training Partner

Experienced martial practitioners will love the Martialarm because you can create new techniques due to its constant forward force and so it strike back. The Martialarm is used to practise in the control of any opponent’s arms: and new unique techniques will develop from training on it! The ability to enter into your opponents space and really improve your attacks are just some of the benifits of training with the martialarm, also control over the opponent’s attack and defence capabilities because of the constant forward force and resistance to the center. The Martialarm attaches to a wall and is used like a wooden dummy for martial arts training!

Other martial arts training devices are not easily used by the new student because they are not a simple representation of an opponent in an attacking or defensive position. The Martialarm is and so it does teach the new student how to handle that by constantly drilling his techniques on the martialarm.

What is the Martialarm?

The Martialarm Machine Is The Only Martial Arts Tool that allows you complete realism in all your martial arts training of kung fu, karate, krav maga, jeet kune do, tae kwon do, kempo and more..

The Martialarm is a Martial Arts training machine used to develop the entry and trapping skills of any martial artist - in any style. The Martialarm is designed to actually test your techniques so to improve them and for you to gain the amazing ability to trap and control your opponents hands and arms. This is because the Martialarm moves and reacts like a real opponent.

If you own a dojo or training school, using the Martialarm Training Partner increases your new student sign up and also retention rate; because adding modern training equipment for your students is essential. Today more than ever you must offer value for money in student training and that means you teach them ‘everything you’ve got’. The Stuff That Really Works and Works In The Street - 24/7! This is exactly what the Martialarm does! It puts the experienced martial artist or the new student to the test!

Only the martialarm movies show how the Martialarm really works in full combat conditions. The Martialarm moves and twists up, down, left, right and all the variations like a real opponent would. Any pressure placed on the arms internal springs will be distributed over the shoulder and elbow joints and so it will springs forward - so it does strike back!

The Martialarm Martial Arts Theory

#1 — Safety

You must maintain 100% safety when entering into the opponents attack range, this means to limit any variables that could occur by covering them. (Methods of entry must be sophisticated yet simple, fast as well as safe!)

#2 — Attack

You must have the ability to attack at will, with no concern or hesitation. The attack should incorporate a total control of the opponents weapons. (Attacks must be structured to have within them a 100% defense!)

#3 — Adaptability

Techniques, attacks and defenses must flow but not necessarily at a constant pace. Adaptability to choose what’s next is key!

How Often Do You Hear Yourself Saying: “I’ll Get Back Into Training Next Week…”?

Many people give up on their martial arts training because it stops being fun. The reason why this happens is because they’re not being challenged enough so it becomes repetitive.

Break through your training block!

Add an exciting new dimension to your training that will bust through your boredom and make your martial arts training exciting again!

The Martialarm will give you the active, dynamic training workout that will renew your interest in the martial arts.

Don’t procrastinate, decide to get active again!

Your Own Personal Training Partner - Hangs Right on Your Wall!

The traditional wooden dummy is quite bulky and requires a big chunk of space to set it up properly for training. That’s fine if you have a big training hall, but you probably don’t have that much space to devote to your training.

The Martialarm fits into even the smallest training areas.

With its compact design, it’s easy to make space for it, even if you live in a tiny bachelor’s apartment! Or if you have a training hall, the Martialarm is small enough for you to put up a bunch of them so more students can benefit from training with them.

It’s very easy to set up and it hangs conveniently on your wall, ready and waiting for your next urge to train.

http://www.martialarm.com

“This is the answer to the only problem I had in my martial arts training, ‘How to effectively test a technique?’. I can now experiment using full power which I could never do before with my normal training partner.” L. Baxter

About the Author

This article was submitted by P. Sundbye who has been training in various martialarts for the last 11 years including Wing Chun Kung Fu, Aikido, Tong Long and the Lee Total Control system.

For more information and martial arts news visit http://www.martialarm.com/martialarm.html

Cagewarriors Announce That All VIP Tables And Tickets For Their “Strike Force” Show Are Sold Out
The Cagewarriors Fighting Championships are pleased to announce that all VIP Tables and VIP Tickets for their May 21st “Strike Force” event are now sold out.

Popularity: unranked [?]

Martial Arts Leaders Give More Support for the New Museum
The Martial Arts History Museum continues to receive support from martial arts leaders across the globe

Tedoradze vs. Blackledge Re-Arranged For Cagewarriors Strike Force 3 On October 1st.
The huge heavyweight Ultimate Fighting/Mixed Martial Arts encounter between the Wolfslair Academy’s Tom Blackledge and the former CWFC Heavyweight Champion Tengiz Tedoradze has been brought forward by 2 weeks to Cagewarriors Strike Force 3.

Aikido of Austin to Sponsor Japanese Summer Cultural Festival
Sponsored by Aikido of Austin, the summer festival will feature martial arts, Taiko drummers, Okinawan dance, and Japanese food.

Keys To Choosing The Right Martial Arts School

1. Location

The key to learning any martial art is practice. To make this easy for you, look for a school near your home, work or school. The easier it is for you to get there, the more time you?ll spend practicing and the better you?ll get. Eliminate those ?Well, it?s kind of a long ways away, so I?ll just watch TV tonight? excuses.

Note to husbands: Watch out for schools located in malls as they give you wife an excuse to shop while your kids are in class! (The location of a school says nothing about how ?good? it is…give every school a fair evaluation while you?re checking them out.)

2. Instructor

You want to be sure that you get along well with your instructor, especially if you?re going to commit to a school for a period of time. Keep in mind that a martial arts instructor is just like any teacher or coach that you have had, their job is to teach you the art and help you improve. Pay special attention to their personality, philosophy, energy, motivation and how they treat other students. If you?re having a difficult time making a decision, go with your gut feeling…this is a decision that has to be right for you. Remember, selecting an instructor is not a life-long decision so don?t take too long to make a decision. Get started, learn about the arts and change instructors later on if you feel it?s in your best interest.

3. Style

You want to be sure the schools you?re looking at offer styles that will help you accomplish your goals. If your goal is meditation, you probably don?t belong in a jujitsu school. But don?t get too picky either. Just because you always wanted to be like Bruce Lee doesn?t mean you have to practice Wushu. Many martial artists train in different arts through their career and end up creating a style that is a combination of all their styles.

Again, this isn?t a permanent decision so it?s better to just get started with a school nearby that has an instructor you like.

4. Costs

Look for schools that offers 1-2 introductory classes for free. These benefit both you and the school by ensuring you?re a good fit before making you commit to anything.

If you?re going to invest in a ?martial arts education?, make sure it?s within your budget. You don?t want you or your kids to get started and become excited about martial arts, just to have to quit due to finances.

Some schools require contracts (or ?tuitional agreements? as they are often called) while others don?t. Don?t be afraid of tuitional agreements, often times these schools are extremely interested in seeing you or your child succeed, which is why they want you to make a longer-term commitment after a free class or two. There are also excellent instructors who don?t want to see money interfere with a martial arts education, so they opt to not require contracts and charge on a per-class basis.

Both contract and no-contract schools are good options, just be sure to give location and instructors more weight than payment structure when making a decision to commit to a school.

If you would like to learn more about Martial Arts or are interested in finding a martial arts school in your area, go to http://www.experiencemartialarts.com.

About the Author:

Javier Lozano, Jr. has been training in the martial arts for over 15 years. He is currently part owner of Experience Martial Arts and will be opening a martial arts school shortly.

Popularity: unranked [?]

MARTIAL ARTS and Adult ADHD: Overcoming The Symptoms

The symptoms of ADHD can be devastating for school-aged children, but they can be even more debilitating for adults who feel like they don’t have a place to turn for help. Adult ADHD has the same symptoms as those present in children (including inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity). The fast-paced lifestyle that many adults lead also adds stress that can aggravate the symptoms. However, training martial arts is a great way to alleviate these symptoms and overcome the stress they cause.

THE SYMPTOMS

1. Inattention.

The first symptom of adult ADHD is the inability to focus and lack of attention. This includes not being able to follow through on tasks, not being able to focus on what other people are saying and not being able to organize thoughts, tasks and activities.

2. Hyperactivity.

The second symptom of adult ADHD is hyperactivity. People who suffer from this symptom feel the need to fidget with hand and feet. They also tend to get up out of their seat often (even when it’s not an appropriate time) or simply feel an urge to move around. They also tend to talk excessively and are always “on the go”.

3. Impulsivity.

The third symptom of adult ADHD is impulsivity. People who have difficulty waiting their turns, who often interrupt and who answer questions before they’ve been completed may suffer from this symptom.

THE “TREATMENT”

Training martial arts solves for these symptoms of adult ADHD. To be successful in whatever martial art you choose, you need a high level of physical control. The only way to reach this is through lots of practice and self-discipline. This ability to control your body also helps you to discipline your mind. These two skills feed off of one another and carry over to other parts of your life. The more you learn to control your body, the more you control your mind. The more you can control your mind, the more you’ll be able to control your body. This control carries over to other parts of your life as well: Once you can control your body while training, you’ll be able to start controlling your urges to move and fidget. The same goes for your mind. As you discipline your mind, you’ll be able to concentrate and focus on your daily activities, your job and your relationships.

In addition to practice and self-discipline, martial arts teach breathing techniques. Many of them use the slow breathing techniques that have been used by martial artists for centuries. Similar to how specialists help people deal with panic attacks and stress, martial arts use breathing techniques for both physical and mental health and to create the body and mind connection. This connection allows you to run at a peaceful and happy level because you have achieved mastery over your mind and body.

If you’re still not convinced, take the word of someone who’s experienced the effects personally: Jody Walsh spent most of his life not finishing projects and dealing with hyperactivity. He wanted a way to treat his ADHD symptoms without relying on medication for his entire life. That’s when he decided to start training martial arts at Temple Kung-Fu Studios. “The first thing I noticed was that the breathing techniques helped me to calm down, be patient and focus on one thing at a time,” he says. “The physical applications showed me to be more aware of what my body is doing at all times.”

Even if you haven’t been officially diagnosed with adult ADHD, you may suffer from some or even many of the symptoms. If so, you owe it to yourself to start alleviating the stress in your life. The self-discipline and self-awareness needed to train martial arts helps you stay in control of your environment and life. The best place to find these skills is at a fine martial arts school. Why not give it a try? You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. To make it even easier, I’ll help you get started. Just contact me and I’ll send you my free report on how to pick a martial arts school.

If you are interested in learning more about how martial arts can help your change your life, please contact one of my three locations in Bellevue, Lynnwood or Kent, Washington at 800-508-6141 or martialadvice@hotmail.com to set up a free 2 week trail orientation.

Also, please see our web pages at www.kungfutemple.com and www.martialarts-instruction.com

Sincerely,
Robert Jones
Master Instructor
Temple Kung-Fu Studios

About the Author

Mr. Robert Jones runs three successful martial arts schools located in Bellevue, Lynnwood, and Kent Washington. He has been helping families make positive changes in their lives through martial arts for over 20 years. He has also written two guides on how to pick a martial arts school. One for adults and one for parents wanting to pick the right school for their children. He can be reached at 800-508-6141

Kicking Versus Kissing
Imagine encountering a martial artist who has practiced a certain move, such as a snap kick, a million or more times. It’s powerful and more explosive and devastating than any other snap kick in the world. His mastery has become the stuff of legend, so much so that students seek him out. They, too, wish to have such a strong snap kick, but also they bring him their problems dealing with life, in general. “Can this master help them?” asks this top speaker, best-selling author, and black belt in kenpo karate.

When You Spar, How Hard Should You Hit?
Improve your martial arts training with a realistic look at options for various levels of contact sparring

Popularity: unranked [?]

Martial Arts and The Zone

On the occasions you delivered the perfect strike; blocked without the need to think or performed a near flawless kata, did it feel difficult? Or did you get the sense it happened by itself? If you have experienced such moments you were in The Zone. The Zone is a place where athletes describe this sort of experience. Studies suggest its a state of ‘effortless merging of action and awareness’. So what stops us from getting there? Factors such as stress or attempts to try harder can interfere. Often our efforts to train harder result in unnecessary muscular responses that prevent us reaching the effortless state of The Zone.

It is my belief that our natural state is to be in The Zone. Diligent practice of the martial arts can help us to experience this shift of consciousness. The Zone is an altered state where things can happen with little or no perceived effort. In these moments our response appears to precede conscious thought and is executed near to perfection; right timing, right effort and entirely appropriate to the situation.

I am sure we have all experienced moments like this. For example, in one competition I scored ippon with a jodan mawashi geri to the side of my opponents exposed face. Afterwards my opponent congratulated me on my technique commenting he didn’t see it coming, to which I could honestly reply, “Neither did I”. I was only aware of the execution of the technique once my leg has started its recoil. Where had it come from? At some level my senses had registered the target, selected the most appropriate technique, fired it off, made the lightest of contact and started the recovery before I had become aware of it! This was probably my ‘finest hour’. But how can we be capable of such remarkable feats one moment and be totally incompetent the next - I lost the next round and was appallingly slow.

Whilst the patterns (techniques) residing at a subconscious level can be called upon with incredible speed and effectiveness, I believe this can only happen if we are in a balanced state. Another word for this is poise, this is not to be confused with posture. Poise is a state of totally appropriate activity, both at a muscular and ‘mental’ level. When we are in this state there is ‘optimum integration of the postural reflexes, consciousness and appropriate use of learnt patterns’. That is, we can get out of the way and let the processes just happen. Nerves, tension and stress will interfere with this process if we allow ourselves to react negatively to these situations such as stiffening the neck, an action that will impede the balance reflexes. Likewise, over-confidence has a similar affect of preventing the unity of self and action as, in my view, it will reduce our level of alertness and state of readiness. The ego really should be left at the door of the dojo!

So perhaps to heighten our chances of getting into The Zone we need to focus on ‘being in the moment’. Only by being consciously aware of the moment or ‘the here and now’ can we ensure inappropriate muscular activity is not present in our actions. This takes time and involves going back to some very basic movements (pre-martial art techniques) such as everyday simple activities and Zazen to experience a stillness and awareness that will help in more demanding activities.

About the Author

Roy Palmer is a teacher of The Alexander Technique and has studied performance enhancement in sport for the last 10 years. In 2001 he published a book called ‘The Performance Paradox: Challenging the conventional methods of sports training and exercise’ and is currently working on a new project about The Zone. More information about his unique approach to training can be found at http://www.fitness-programs-for-life.com/martial_arts_training.html

Exclusive Never Before Seen Nancy Benoit Photos Now Online
Wrestling News Desk posts photographer's moving tribute. (PRWeb Aug 15, 2007)

Aikijutsu Academy of Indianapolis and Ted Hanulak Sensei Announce Unveiling of New Senso-Ryu Dojo Website
The Aikijutsu Academy of Indianapolis, the traditional Japanese hombu (headquarters) martial art dojo of Senso-Ryu Aikijutsu under the tutelage of Ted Hanulak Sensei, is proud to announce the unveiling of the new website http://www.aiki-jutsu.com. (PRWeb Aug 1, 2007)

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MartialArtsPride.com Expands UFC MMA Product Offering
MartialArtsPride.com, a CAS Enterprises, LLC Internet property, announced its plans to further expand is product line, concentrating more on UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) and MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) equipment and apparel. For officially licensed UFC Gear, MartialArtsPride.com will rely heavily on Century, LLC and its exciting new partnership with the UFC. MartialArtsPride.com has also already added to its line of MMA Shorts by becoming an authorized dealer for Combat Sports International. (PRWeb Jul 24, 2007)

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Popularity: unranked [?]

Alvarez, Prangley Victories Highlight Bodog Fight’s American Debut
Eddie Alvarez and Trevor Prangley Victories Highlight and other MMA Fight results at Bodog Fight's American Debut (PRWeb Jul 21, 2007)

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Martial Arts Management: Is Your Dojo Thriving or Just Surviving?

Is your dojo a business, a lifestyle, a hobby, a temple, a recreation center, or a mixture of these things?

This is a fundamental question that every dojo needs to answer, and you really should highlight one or two things and focus on improving them.

All too often dojo owners and managers are unclear about their aspirations and it not only confuses everyone but it leads to ultimate dissatisfaction and to failure.

For example, I am aware of a martial arts dojo that offers excellent training but because the sensei has been hopelessly ambivalent about its missions, the organization has always been beset by financial troubles.

In most of his writings this leader has derided money, often admitting he is ?not a businessman? and that business practices defile the purity of the martial arts.

If you despise money, chances are very good that you?re going to scare it away.

Through some communications with him I was able to point out this blind spot and he changed his rhetoric, instituted an advisory board, and made it easier for people to support the dojo through donations and participation in fundraisers.

Instead of constantly being on the precipice, he is now on a stronger financial footing and he can focus on being what he is: a great teacher.

Specifically, what can you monitor to determine if your dojo is financially healthy or unhealthy? I believe REFERRALS from existing students are incredibly significant:

(1) They are a reliable indicator that your current students are pleased with their instruction. Are they bringing in their friends and family on a regular basis? If not, either they falsely believe the dojo doesn?t need to enlarge its base, or they aren?t convinced it is a place for everyone.

(2) Referrals are ?free.? Your marketing costs are nil when someone brings a friend to the dojo.

(3) Referrals introduce you to new networks. That person who is brought in belongs to several new groups that can help you to grow, that you wouldn?t tap without a personal introduction.

Make it known to your students that the dojo is interested in thriving and they can help by inviting friends to observe a class. Devise brief demonstration programs for visitors in which they can participate that will show them a few nifty techniques.

St. Augustine said ?There is no joy in heaven over empty churches,? and the same thought pertains to dojos.

The Xtreme Fighting Association (XFA) to Debut in Las Vegas
The Xtreme Fighting Association (XFA) is coming to Las Vegas and will showcase the excitement of stand up fighting with knock-down, knock-out action from the world's most exciting and talented athletes. The XFA is an association of the top martial arts executives, managers, promoters, coaches, trainers and fighters in the world. (PRWeb Aug 10, 2007)

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Popularity: unranked [?]

Action Star Suzzana Stefankovicova in talks with Ratti Entertainment
Suzzana Stefankovicova is in discussions with Ratti Entertainment Group for the “Black Salt” film and video project

Sport Relief Goes…All Out for India
Take 13 celebrities, put them in 90-degree heat and ask them to take on India at their own game - Cricket!

Josh Barnett, “Baby Faced Assassin,” Releases Affliction Signature Shirt at Solis
Josh Barnett, “Baby Faced Assassin,” releases new Affliction UFC Signature at Solis. Barnett made UFC history in 2002 as the youngest fighter in history to win the UFC Heavyweight Championship title. Other signature shirts in the series Randy “the Natural” Couture and Chuck “the Iceman” Liddell.

Here’s How To Cut Down On Martial Arts Injuries

A martial arts practitioner is as prone to injuries as any other sporting person. Those who do not take precautions and take the correct steps to lessen martial arts injuries, he/she will surely suffer high levels of pain. This article will share the three golden rules that every martial arts student must follow in order to avoid, if not control injuries. Read on.

Do some Warm-ups before engaging in practice. Before starting the training, perform a range of warm up exercises. The warm up exercises will prepare you for more strenuous movements during the training proper. By making the body more flexible and responsive, the chances of injuries arising from sudden twists and turns will be reduced.

Learn all the right techniques from your instructor and practice them regularly. On account of wrong moves, you will do yourself some serious damage. It is always advisable to do the right techiques and take extra care when sparring.

Every martial arts student is prone to sprains due to the overuse of ankles, elbows and toes. A wrong kick or a wrong fall can cause a nasty sprain in the foot. Ankle sprains may also happen when a foot gets caught in an old mat. Similarly, a throw may lead to a fall that may shake up your backbones. It is important to adopt a balanced posture before throwing a kick.

Elbows are especially vulnerable to joint manipulation. It is important to learn the right technique from your instructor when going in for a lock. Most masters advise a slight bend in the joint as a good way to avoid elbow sprain.Similarly, in a grapple it is better to accept defeat than try to break the grip by injuring yourself. You also need to learn the right techniques when throwing a punch or kicks. Many times beginners end up ‘jamming’ their fingers or toes while trying to hit out.

Wear proper protective equipment. Normally, all contact sports result in a range of cuts and bruises. This may happen on account of not wearing proper protective clothing. Never do boxing practice without a helmet and a mouth guard. Also, make sure that the helmet fits you well. There have been many cases where martial arts students have to be taken to the hospital on account of a head injury.

These are three golden rules that every martial arts student must follow - the only way you can reduce you the injuries and enjoy the sport.

About the Author

Callie Armstrong is a writer for http://www.AllergyHero.com. Her insights on dieting, exercise and health can be read at http://www.body4beach.com

Popularity: unranked [?]

ESPNEWS will broadcast Chuck Liddell weighing in for UFC 71 while wearing his UFC Signature Series shirt available at Soliscompany.com.
Chuck Liddell prepares for UFC 71 wearing the UFC Signature Series shirt he helped design. The entire Signature Series collection is available Soliscompany.com. ESPNEWS will broadcast the event on May 25 at 4PM PST.

Martial Arts Film Star Karen Sheperd Headed to Atlantic City
“The Karate Diva” Karen Sheperd heads to the Mega Martial Arts Expo in January 2005

Absolute Speed and Power Training for Martial Arts

It hardly takes much convincing to conclude that having blinding speed of punches or bone-cracking power in kicks are the most desireable assets for Martial Artists to posess. Remember Miyamoto Musashi stated in his famous text “A Book of Five Rings” that one ultimate goal of the warrior is to learn to end the fight with a single blow! That’s exactly where speed & power come in! The idea is to make them as specific as possible so as to achieve the most applicable results. In this article we will attempt to explore some of the best methods available to get those results.

Economy of Motion. Basically the more you practice your peticular techniques, the more your nervous system becomes familiar & you naturally get faster. Its a really good idea to use mirrors because you can self-coach so to say & strip away wasted movements as well as learn to utilize power centers (like the hips & legs). For example you can immediately make your punch will be twice as powerful by springing off the slightly bent legs when you execute it. Think of your body akin to a coiled up snake about to strike!
Think SPEED! Sounds simple but when you start thinking you are fast you will actually start moving faster. Get over any preconceived mental limitations you may have. The other aspect of this notion is to keep the thought of speed on the forefront of your mind. As you train to do those skills you wish to be faster & stronger at make a conscious effort to do them with your best speed & power efforts! Time yourself. Count down how many strikes or roundhouses you can land on a target or heavy bag in a 10 second period. Seek to improve your numbers every session.
Overspeed methods A.K.A. Forcing faster muscle memory! The abridged version goes like this:You have an innate speed at which muscles can fire off & move any given limb. Factors like motor unit recruitment, neural efficiency/capacity, & strength ratios effect this. What we are going to do is teach the nervous system to coordinate movement & build muscle memory at faster speeds! To speed up punches wrap a tubular resistance band or even bungee cord around your wrists and anchor the other end or have a partner stretch it out. Now release & throw the arm into motion with the added speed. Relax the opposing muscles to avoid any “braking” effects. The same proceedure can be performed on kicks by binding the band to the foot.10-20 reps 2 times aweek will be enough to develop noticeable results.
Specific drills to build power. Much can be done with a simple medicineball & even bodyweight outside of what you are already familiar with. Here are some to get started on:
Power absorbtion exercises:How the theory works is that you can’t create more power than you can absorb. So it only makes sense to start here before we start “jumping” into plyometrics! For upperbody power, drop push-ups are king! Assume a position upright but on your knees with both arms at chest level slightly more than shoulder width apart bend aprox 90?, now drop to your hands without hesitation and forcefully contract when the hands touch the floor as to limit the amount of arm bend. The higher the “drop” the more force is absorbed, thus the more power potential to develop. The same concept is easily adapted to the lowerbody by doing drops from a 4′-5′ surface landing in a 1/4 squat. For pulling power, hold yourself at the top of a pull up position & fall to “catch” yourself about 1/2 through the pull ups range of motion.You’ll find after performing as little as 10 reps each you’ll be plenty sore! Its a good idea to work these 4-8 weeks, 2 times a week before progressing to the next phase…

Plyometric Kung Fu:Okay to begin lets start with punching/pushing power. Clapping push-ups work great but I feel the need to mention that the idea is to “bounce” off of each rep. Not just get the clap in! In fact forget the clap, just repetitively hop off the floor from this position. Its the fast reaction off the landing that matters so focus on that. One idea that will work good on the legs is to depth jump right into a kick. Peticularly a jump-kick! Now these are good starters…ready to leave elementary onto High School? Get a partner & medicineball (start with light ball, please!). Have him Throw it (throw, not toss) at you. The first step its to rebound it as soon as it touches your hands. Next level of progress is to actually strike the oncoming ball out of the air with a chop, punch, palm, & even any various kicks you desire to build power onto. This drill works some serious plyo-power into your martial arts! Start with a light 3 lb. ball & slow throws gradually working up to faster throws & heavier balls.Obviosly the further you are able to displace the ball/target the more power you have gained(Like a baseball batter). Kind of works as a measuring devise as well. For you solo practitioners get a bouncy type med-ball & react off the rebound of a wall throw. Please exercise caution as this last one is alot more difficult than it sounds & takes some serious getting used to.The great thing is you can build accuracy at the same time you get faster & more powerful techniques. Lastly plyometrics like these are intense, so only work out with them 2 times a week.
If you’d like to learn more about speed,the science of power training, & plyometrics stop by our site Bionicplyometrics.com & read up. If you have any specific question you’ll be able to contact me here as well.

About the Author

Mark learned plyometrics as well as other modalities of training as a professional & collegiate gymnastics instructor.Mr. Sias now is a Firefighter/Paramedic which allows him much free time to study science of sports training & consult many tainers across the country.

Josh Barnett, “Baby Faced Assassin,” Releases Affliction Signature Shirt at Solis
Josh Barnett, “Baby Faced Assassin,” releases new Affliction UFC Signature at Solis. Barnett made UFC history in 2002 as the youngest fighter in history to win the UFC Heavyweight Championship title. Other signature shirts in the series Randy “the Natural” Couture and Chuck “the Iceman” Liddell.

Popularity: unranked [?]

Action Star Suzzana Stefankovicova in talks with Ratti Entertainment
Suzzana Stefankovicova is in discussions with Ratti Entertainment Group for the “Black Salt” film and video project

Inner Secrets of Martial Arts and Free Bonus

What’s more is a lot of people training in a martial art reach a plateau. They don’t feel like they are progressing. They feel that there’s something missing. Or even if starting, the basic training seems just so boring. They’re right, there is something missing which enriches the whole experience many times over. But for you it could be very different.

Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll discover
in Inner Secrets of Martial Arts Success:

* Your most effective weapon. Your MIND! And how you must use it for success in all things.

* Street effective techniques that will save your ass. (Don’t be one of the many martial artists who get whipped big time out there in the real world)

* The amazing proven training technique that allows you to train effectively without sweat ON YOUR OWN in the comfort of your home. (Next time you train at the dojo you will be already better than the rest of your class.)

* What your 6th sense is, how to improve yours and how to destroy your opponents.

* Find why learning completely on your own just won’t do.

* The truth about the one inch punch, made famous by Bruce Lee, and how to perform it. (It’ll take some practice, but once you “get it” it will unlock many skills)

* The secret of rookie Australian Wing Chun students who won world full contact titles and how you can benefit immensely from it.

* The essence of what professional athletes pay $1000’s for at their special training camps disclosed. Only you won’t have to pay mega dollars for it like they did!

* Why sparring is essential to your development as a martial artist.

Here’s what a few people just like you have said already:
————————————————————–

“Thanks for this brilliant book”.

“I love the chapter on learning from the matrix. I love the film, and this made me enjoy it even more, looking out for the phrases and meanings. Also the section on advanced training, because I’ve already achieved my Black belt in Tae Kwon Do this section gave me ideas on which direction to go next.”

————————————————————–

Adam Ford - Great Britain

There you go, the proof speaks for itself, doesn’t it?

Find out more about Inner Secrets of Martial Arts…

About the Author

How Can Some Small, Soft Bodied Old Man Quickly and Easily Whip Someone Twice His Size and Half His Age? Find out now!

Martial Arts Museum Adds two New Board Members
The Martial Arts History Museum has added two new board members to their team.

The New First Lady of Martial Arts Entertainment
The New First Lady of martial arts entertainment is at the center of what is lined up to be the next big trend in the action film and martial arts industries.

Popularity: unranked [?]

Kenshiro Abbe Sensei 50th Celebrations
THE KENSHIRO ABBE 50th CELEBRATION EVENT
14th May 2005 Crystal Palace Sports Centre London. UK
By Henry Ellis

Henry Ellis, a direct student of the legendary Budo master Kenshiro Abbe Sensei, from 1957 describes the great event at the Crystal Palace Sports Centre, London, to celebrate this great teacher and his arrival to Great Britain in 1955 and the subsequent inception of Aikido. Tribute website to Kenshiro Abbe Sensei at http://www.KenshiroAbbe.com . . .

The Bushido ZaZen International Society Annual Dinner

In February 2004 Derek Eastman and I were invited as guests at the annual dinner of The Bushido Za Zen International Society by its Chairman Mr Arnold Davies Hanshi an old student of Kenshiro Abbe Sensei and a close friend of my own good friend Bill Woods Sensei. These names alone meant that this evening was to be something special with so much history and martial arts background between us.

As we arrived we were met by Mr Clive MacDonald, a member of the Bushido ZaZen. Mr MacDonald and Mr Davies had been instrumental in putting together many of the facts to help with the protection of the true history of British Aikido during the great British Aikido Board Controversy.

Memories of Kenshiro Abbe Sensei

Mr MacDonald immediately brought several pints of beer to our table and from then on the conversation flowed along with the beer. As we spoke of our memories of the legendary master, Kenshiro Abbe Sensei, I said ” Do you realize that it is 50 years next year since Abbe Sensei arrived in Britain ! “. We all discussed the importance of this date, I then suggested that, as we all belonged to the Essex Aikido Forum ( EAF ), which is a group of like minded people interested only in Aikido without its politics, we agreed that we should organise a celebration of such an important date. Mr MacDonald called over Mr Davies who, without a moments hesitation, gave the event his full support and financial backing.

The Organising Committee

Before the evening was over we realised that this event would be bigger than anything ever previously organised by the EAF or any other Aikido organisation for that matter. We decided there and then that we would need a working committee if we were to put this very special event together. Mr MacDonald approached two other senior EAF member, Mr Mike Leavy and Mr Eric Gillett, who agreed to join our organising committee. I then approached Mr David Humm the administrator of the very popular website the ” National Aikido Communication DataBase ” . Mr Humm had also been involved in our efforts to protect the history of British Aikido. He also became a willing committee member. Mr Rob Peck agreed to be the secretary We now had a full committee of seven members who were now totally committed and dedicated to putting together the greatest Aikido seminar ever in the United Kingdom. I don’t believe that any one of us on this night were able to grasp the enormity of the task we had pledged to undertake.

The Venue

As the word spread throughout the Aikido and MartialArts communities and, from the interest that was now being generated, we now knew that we would need a prestigious venue After much deliberation and following a visit to Crystal Palace Sports Centre, we soon realised that this was to be the final venue. This was to be a wise decision as, with its great hall and facilities along with the accommodation blocks and restaurants, It would later prove to be capable of hosting the planned event comfortably. The event attracted 430 students. 60 guests, 370 spectators and visitors totalling almost one thousand people on the day With students from all over the UK — USA — France — Holland — Germany, Czechoslvakia.

The Teachers of the Day

As this day was to celebrate the arrival in the UK of Kenshiro Abbe Sensei in 1955, and the subsequent inception of Aikido. It was decided to invite the five surviving direct students of Abbe Sensei from the 1950’s/60’s mentioned below.

I, Henry Ellis and Derek Eastman had already agreed, now I had to approach my old friends, Sensei Ralph Reynolds and Sensei Hayden Foster, who willingly offered their support.

Sensei Ken Williams, first student of Abbe Sensei, was also approached. He had to decline due to prior commitments. He did however provided a letter of dedication to be read out at the event. I then approached Sensei Bill Smith Shihan MBE, who sadly had to decline due to health issues. His son Phillip attended to represent his father and the AikiKai. Now we had a full Aikido teaching team. The event was officially under-way. We also received a letter of tribute to the memory of Abbe Sensei from the Doshu Moriteru Ueshiba ..

The Guests

The guest list was a who’s who of the Martial-Arts world in the UK. There were 60 guests and, with respect, I am unable to mention them all but, the following will give some insight.

Mr F Motai of the Japanese Embassy — Sensei Bill Woods Aide / Secretary to Kenshiro Abbe Sensei 1955 - Sensei Bill Stopps, Personal Aide to Matsutaro Otani Sensei from 1947. - Sensei Robin Otani, Pesident of the British Judo Council. - Mr P, Don of Sport England. - Sensei N Jones, my personal guest. - Ms Jenny Earle, World Judo champion.

Mr Ken Cottier Shihan, a member of the Aiki-Kai World Council. Mr Gigs Shouten, a special guest from Holland. Joe Curran Sensei who read a letter of tribute to Abbe Sensei from Kazuo Chiba Shihan.

The Budo Demonstrations

During the mid day part of the event there was a break for the students while the Budo demonstrations were carried out by some of the very best exponents of the various arts on display. This was a unique event where students were now able to witness many of the Budo arts that they had never seen before.

Aikido -Judo — Karate — Iaido — Kyudo — Kendo — JuJutsu — Ju Kendo

The Event and The Day

This was a very wonderful and special day for me after almost 50 years of practicing Aikido. On the morning of the event as I entered the great hall at Crystal Palace Sports Centre to the electrifying sound of the Taiko Drummers and masses of students around the mat area plus many more queuing at the door to register. I walked onto the concourse floor to see all the various stalls set out. Mr Don Baney a specialist in Japanese works of art had a fine display of Samurai armour and swords, for more information visit: http://www.geocities.com/britishaikido/japanese_swords.htm The atmosphere was fantastic, an indication of the great day ahead. I met so many people that I had not seen for so many years.

There was a raffle at the end of the day with a prized valuable ShinKen sword, presented by Nine Circles Budo Equipment Supplies. A hand made Tanto presented by Sensei Dave Rogers of New Mexic,o USA. Other prizes included the book ” Positive Aikido”, Gi’s, bokkens, shinai’s and many commemorative T-Shirts.

This was indeed a very special day.

I was privileged to be at the great event in 1963 held by Abbe Sensei at the Royal Albert Hall in London where I was assistant to Mikoto Nakazono Sensei. I never thought that I would ever see another event to equal that one. On this day of celebration and commemoration of the life of Abbe Sensei, I believe I saw the event to eclipse all others.

Henry Ellis Event Liasion Officer
Co-Author of Positive Aikido
Principal Coach Ellis Schools of Traditional Aikido
http://www.EllisAikido.org
http://www.geocities.com/britishAikido

Henry Ellis born 1936. Co -author of Positive Aikido. A direct student of the legendary Budo master Kenshiro Abbe Sensei from 1957. Ellis has had articles published in several International Martial Arts magazines, he has written several articles on the proud history and lineage of British Aikido. Protecting the legacy left by Abbe Sensei from those that have attempted to alter the facts to advance their insatiable ego’s.

No copyright on this article..
Henry Ellis co-author of Positive Aikido and the Principal Coach of the Ellis SChools of Traditional Aikido UK - USA.. He is a direct student from 1957 of the legendary Budo master Kenshiro Abbe Sensie. Ellis has written many articles on the history and lineage of British Aikido, several articles have been published in International Martial Arts magazines.

Martial Arts Book Review: Real Fighting by Peyton Quinn

Being the author of several books on the martial arts and fighting, I am always looking for books of exceptional quality to add to my library. If I have a book in my library, it’s definitely worth owning. One such book is Peyton Quinn’s, “Real Fighting.”

On a personal note, I found it quite interesting how certain people?s paths can cross without either one knowing about the other. A case in point, Peyton relates a story about a massive brawl which took place at a very prestigious bare-knuckle karate tournament in Denver, Colorado. Which just so happened to be the very same tournament that I competed in and also had the misfortune to witness the very disgusting behavior of a certain so called martial artist and his friends. I often wondered if he recalled seeing me compete.

I found Peyton’s book to be a very good “reality check” for those of you out there that think that your “martial art” is superior to everyone else’s. Well guess what, its not! As every person who has more than a passing resemblance to a human being will tell you, there are no superior martial arts, just superior martial artists. One particular quote that I really had to agree with was, ?Concepts are more important than specific techniques.? Boy did Peyton hit the nail right on the head with this one. From that one quote alone, I knew that he definitely knew what he was talking about.

The most important thing to remember when reading this, or any book dealing with self-defense techniques, is that the principles behind the technique are far more important than the technique itself. Peyton does a great job of this, and you would do well to sit down and read this book from cover to cover several times in order to grasp what he is trying to teach you.

Another important point that is brought out in this book is your need to develop your own personal awareness of yourself and your surroundings. By being aware of what is going on around you, you can avoid a lot of potential problems and be able to spot the preliminary signals that are always present before the first blow is actually thrown.

Although I thoroughly enjoyed what Peyton had to teach in his book, I must admit that I am not a big fan of the generalization that seems to take place when people compare “real fighting” to the martial arts. It seems that a lot of the martial arts are pigeonholed into the prevalent “McDojo’s” that seem to be so popular these days. That simply is not the case.

Peyton is one of the few “self-defense” authors out there that seems to realize this. He not only respects the teachings of the martial arts, but also understands their overall purpose and the benefits derived from them for those of us that study and live the martial way.

Peyton does do a really good job in differentiating between the ?sport? mentality that seems to be so prevalent in many martial arts these days, and the ?self-defense? mentality that has all put disappeared from all, but a few martial arts schools in existence today.

I am a traditionally trained martial artist in both Karate and Tae Kwon Do, as well as being ranked in several other disciplines. However, unlike a lot of schools that seem to have degenerated down to teaching a diluted “sport” version of these arts, I was fortunate enough to be taught the practical version of each technique alongside the traditional version.

A lot of traditional martial artists may find the information contained in this book a little disheartening, but take it from me, if you have one ounce of sense you will buy this book and study it. And when you think you?re finished and have learned everything in this book, take it off the shelf and read it again.

Finally, this book gives you a great overview on Peyton?s scenario based training principles in which he utilizes his Bulletman? suits and instructors. Although you will never get the full effect of this type of training from this book, you will get that which is most important, the concepts behind it.

I think we would all do well to remember that the most important element that the martial arts teach you is not technique, but respect, self-control and self-discipline!

Tito Ortiz vs Chuck Liddell - It's on (again)
Chuck Liddell vs Tito Oriz - It’s on (again) Call me crazy, most people do, but I think Chuck Liddell is going to have a lot of trouble on December 30, 2006 when he faces Tito Ortiz for the second time. A little history first. On April 2, 2004, Tito Ortiz faced Chuck Liddell in the UFC octagon for the first time. It was supposed to be a war to end all wars, entitled “It’s On!” (i.e. it’s finally on), making reference to how long fans had to wait to finally see this match up. If memory serves me correctly, it was two years between when Chuck was considered the #1 contender and when we finally got to see the fight. I was at the 2004 fight, $350 seats which didn’t put me on the floor, but I was awfully close. It was a fantastic event, I’ve never been to a sporting event like it. There were about 10,000 people there, but it sounded like 50,000. There was so much energy and 99% of the people there were hard core fans, really into the fights. The fans that night were split about 50/50 with who they were rooting for. In the end, Chuck knocked Tito out early in the second round. Tito never did mount an offence and for some reason decided to stand and trade punches with Chuck instead of taking him to the mat. He says he was trying to prove something, I think it was just a bad game plan, derived loosly from Randy Couture’s victory over chuck previous to this (Randy also traded punches, and won…worth noting that Randy has lost to Chuck twice since then, both by knock out). So, what makes me think things will be different this time. Age, maturity, complacency, courage, cardio, experience and strategy. Age You see, both fighters are 2 1/2 years older. The difference being that Tito will be 31 vs Chuck’s 37. Anyone over 40 will tell you that there is a much bigger difference between 35 and 37 than there is between 29 and 31. Chucks a great athlete and champion, but we all slow down sometime. Maturity Again, we are not talking absolutes here, but relative. Relative to the fight 2 1/2 years ago, I think Tito has matured more than Chuck. He’s had time off to reflect, changes in his personal life and he still trains like he’s 25. Complacency I’m not even sure what that means, but if it means what I think it means, Chuck’s gotta be it. He’s won easily in his last few outings, hardly breaking a sweat. That’s gotta mess with your head. Courage Hey, lets be serious here. Tito was a little afraid of Chuck the first time around, but let me tell you something. Any man who’s willing to step into the bedroom with Jenna Jameson should have no trouble facing Chuck Liddell. Cardio Anyone who watch the Ulitmate Fighter season 3 knows that Tito is a cardio freak. Nobody trains cardio like Tito. On the other hand, while Chuck is a great fighter, he hasn’t been pushed for a very long time (since his first fight with Randy). Experience I’m talking recent experience here. Tito’s simply gone more rounds than Chuck in recent fights. Although, maybe that’s not quite true…his last two fights with Ken Shamrock didn’t even amount to a single round. Ok, this ones a non-issue. Strategy If Tito comes out with the same strategy as last time, I’ll write him off for good. It was flawed when Tito used it last time and things won’t change if he uses it again. On the other hand, if Tito is committed to making Chuck work, even if it’s repeatedly trying to avoid takedowns, at some point Tito’s superior cardio will take over. So there you have it, my final prediction, Tito Ortiz by ref stoppage. Could I be wrong? Of course I could, if the fight doesn’t make it to the 3rd round, or Tito can’t take him down, then it’s Chucks to win. If it goes 3 rounds or deeper, I’ll take Tito for sure. Also, if Tito can put Chuck on his back, then I’ll take Tito. One thing is for certain, I’ll be watching the fight on December 30th, on the edge of my seat!

<b>John is a huge MMA fan. Check out his MMA web sites below:</b>
<br><br>
<a href="http://mma.gocurious.com/" target="_blank">Real MMA</a>
<br>
<a href="http://mmaforums.gocurious.com/" target="_blank">Real MMA Forums</a>
<br>
<a href="http://www.gocurious.com/" target="_blank">GoCurious.com</a>and<br>
http://www.gocurious.com/

Learn How To Kick: Kicking Effectively in a Self-Defense or Combat Situation Part 1 of 10
This ten article series will deal with the various components that need to be addressed when considering the utilization of a particular kick in a combat or self-defense situation. These ten components can also be used by the tournament competitor although certain segments would have to be modified slightly for the tournament aspects of kicking, rather than the more intensive nature of using a kick or kicks in combat. Although all of these individual components are important, they are most effective when combined together and utilized correctly when executing a kick. Although I will only be discussing one of the components in this article, here is the complete list of all ten of them. 1. Your Kicking Ability
2. Your Intended Application
3. The Environment
4. Telegraphing
5. Striking Implement
6. Striking the Correct Target
7. Initial Impact
8. Impact
9. Retraction or Follow Through
10. Return to Fighting Position Component One; Your Kicking Ability: Your kicking ability is just that, your kicking ability. Not your perceived kicking ability, but your actual reality based kicking ability. This may be a hard pill to swallow, but you may not have the ability to utilize all of those flashy spinning and flying kicks effectively in an actual self-defense situation. Now the good news, if you can realize this and accept it, then you are off to a lot better start than most people who like to kick. Awareness is the key to survival, and nothing is more important than self-awareness. Now there are a lot of self-defense experts out there than dont advocate kicking at all in a self-defense situation. However, when you do a little research into why they believe this, most of the time you will find out that they had a bad experience and/or witnessed a bad experience with someone who tried kicking and ended up getting the worst end of the beating. This is almost certainly due to a lack of proper knowledge not only of how to kick, but also the who, what, where, when, and why of correctly applying a kick. Which unfortunately seems to be fairly common with a lot of the McDojos that are so prevalent in todays society. These articles will help clear up some if not all of those problems. For as many of the self-defense experts that are out there that dont advocate kicking, there are many more that do, although they recommend that you should never kick above waist high. For the most part this is very sound and intelligent advice, and should be adhered to for the most part by everyone. However, like every known rule or law, there are exceptions. For those few individuals out there who are truly gifted in the art of kicking you can, with careful planning and intelligence, execute kicks to a standing opponents head with amazing results. I know Ive done just that on numerous occasions. Now how do you know just how good you are at kicking? Well, first and foremost unless you are a truly perceptive and honest person with yourself, you can forget about asking yourself. If you do, youll probably be able to execute any one of a dozen or more jump spinning kicks taking out as many as two dozen ninja villains before your feet ever touch back down on the ground. Way to go Hollywood! The first person you should consult with is your instructor. If he is qualified and competent (you shouldnt be with him or her if they arent) he will be able to fully assess your ability and give you his honest and forthright opinion. The next group of people you should speak with is your senior classmates. They too should be able to give you their assessment of your kicking abilities. Now after you have spoken with your instructor and your senior classmates, you can then talk to yourself. Now I dont recommend doing this in a public place or your liable to end up getting a visit from the large men dressed in white carrying the butterfly net and the canvas jacket with extra long sleeves. What I do recommend is a private time of self-reflection where you can honestly evaluate your own abilities. Here is a list of the important items that I feel you need to look at when considering what level your kicking ability is at. 1. Length of time spent learning those kicking skills. 2. The degree of flexibility that you have in your legs. 3. The amount of power that you are able to generate with your kicks. 4. Your ability to execute every aspect of those kicks correctly from start to finish. 5. Your own past experiences in actual fights, not sparring in the dojo or at a tournament. 6. Your ability to effectively and consistently land a kick on a training partner anywhere from the waist down without them seeing it even after it hits them. 7. Your ability to execute that very same kick without telegraphing it. 8. Your attitude towards being confronted with a violent situation. 9. Your overall physical condition. 10. Your ability to use your brain intelligently. One of the best training aids that I have ever used and still do is a large full length mirror. I have used a mirror to train with ever since I first started taking lessons over 25 years ago. It is without a doubt the most important piece of training equipment that you can use, if it is used correctly. What you want to do is to stand in front of the mirror in a fighting position. Then without thinking about it, execute a kick at your reflection in the mirror. Now a word of caution, make sure you are back far enough from the mirror that you arent going to actually hit it. This can not only be dangerous to yourself and be very expensive, but you could also end up with seven years of bad luck. If you believe in that sort of thing. When you can stand in front of the mirror and execute a kick, or any technique for that matter, without telegraphing it then youre starting to make some real progress. This is not an easy thing to do, but you can do it. It just takes a lot of time, hard work, and proper instruction. The next article in this series will deal with the second of ten components needed to kick effectively in a combat or self-defense situation. That component is, Your Intended Kicking Application.

Shawn Kovacich is a high ranking black belt in both Karate and Tae Kwon Do. Shawn is also a two time world record holder for endurance high kicking as certified by the Guinness Book of World Records. Shawn is the author of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.chikara-kan.com/shoppingcart/Back-Kick-p-16133.html">Back Kick</a>, volume one in the highly acclaimed <a target="_blank" href="https://www.chikara-kan.com/shoppingcart">Achieving Kicking Excellence</a> series.

Popularity: unranked [?]

New Trend Shows Bodybuilding Supplements Are Rapidly Replacing Hormone Therapy, Says Zupplements.com
Use of non-prescription bodybuilding supplements aimed at increasing testosterone levels goes beyond bodybuilding. It is a growing trend among all varieties of American men, announces Zupplements.com (PRWeb Aug 1, 2007)

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7 Tips For Selecting A Martial Arts Style

With hundreds of different styles available, it’s difficult to make a decision on what to learn. The simple answer is to stay close to home and find an instructor you love. A close location and a good instructor will keep you interested and inspired more than the style will. With that said, here are some tips to help you out.

1. There?s no style that is the ?best?.

2. Find a school nearby with classes to fit your purpose - you may be limited to what?s nearby and to what you can fit into your schedule.

3. Experiencemartialarts.com lists the most common styles, however there are hundreds (if not thousands) of styles that use combinations of these common styles. Just because a school advertises a style that isn?t listed here doesn?t mean it isn?t a good style. Keep an open mind and form your own opinion about each style.

4. Sport, Self-Defense or Fitness - All styles have all 3 of these components, just be sure to look for a class that either focuses on your purpose or gives a general overview of all 3 depending on your goals.

5. Visit schools to see if you enjoy the atmosphere and instructor along with the style. Even though two schools both teach Karate, the way in which they teach it and the sub-styles of Karate may be completely different. Also, pay close attention to the instructors and use your “gut feel” when evaluating them. Are they someone you can get along with? Are they someone who you will respect and listen to?

6. Know your physical abilities and limits. As you are visiting schools, be sure to check with the instructor about any limitations you may have before signing up. You?ll also get a really good feel for what you?re in for by observing a class or two. Most schools offer one class for free.

7. If you have friends already practicing a style, think strongly about learning the same style. Having others to practice with and to encourage you helps a great deal in the long run and makes it even more fun.

As we said before, your instructor will make all the difference in the world. A good instructor is like a good teacher in that they can take the most daunting and boring tasks and make them exciting! Once you’re excited about martial arts, you’ll find that training 3 days a week isn’t work…it’s something you truly enjoy doing.

About the Author:

Javier Lozano, Jr. is a 2nd dan in Wado-Ryu Karate and a writer for Experience Martial Arts, a resource to help you find a martial arts school that suits your needs.

BreatheStrong? Transformational BreathWork 2-Day Intensive
Donald and Cheryl Lynne Rubbo, health and fitness experts with over 30 years experience, announce the start of BreatheStrong™, a remarkable system of transformative, health-enhancing deep-breathing methods, through workshops, intensives and retreats. (PRWeb Jul 14, 2007)

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Popularity: unranked [?]

The Cagewarriors Fighting Championship Announce Its “Enter The Wolfslair” Tournament Line-up
The Cagewarriors Fighting Championships are proud to announce the Welterweight Tournament line-up for their March 5th “Enter The Wolfslair” show, to be held at the Olympia in Liverpool.

Martial Arts: Helping Your Children Protect Themselves

Did you know that a child is reported abducted or missing every 40 seconds in the United States and that most potential abductors make their first contact with the children they abduct within one quarter of a mile from their homes? With summer approaching and children having more time to play with friends during the day, it is now more important than ever to start (or continue) giving your children the tools they need to protect themselves:

Never leave young children unattended anywhere and have older children practice a buddy system with their peers. Teach your children their full name, your name, your address and telephone number. Teach them how to dial and use 911 or your equivalent emergency number. Teach your children about strangers, to never talk to strangers and to never go near strangers.

Give your children the confidence, strength, skills and mental awareness they need to defend themselves if they ever find that they are in a shady situation with either a stranger or someone they know - enroll them in a martial arts class. It can make all the difference. Training martial arts can give your children four important skills that will not only help them defend themselves against a possible abduction, but will also help them in other areas of their lives. Read on to find out more:

Martial Arts Increases Confidence. Martial arts can help your children increase their confidence by giving them the skills and practice needed to get in tune with their minds and bodies They will begin to not only understand their actions and options, but themselves as a whole. Martial arts training also gives children the skills and abilities they need to know that they can defend themselves if the need arises and this confidence in their abilities carries over into all aspects of their lives. Confidence in themselves and their lives help them become less likely to fall prey to the convincing persuasions of potential abductors. Confident children appear to be (and are) strong individuals and are less likely to become victims of all forms of violent acts.

Martial Arts Increase Strength. Martial arts training use the entire body during each and every session. This means that when practicing martial arts, your children will be conditioning their entire bodies to become stronger and more physically fit. If they are physically fit, they increase their chances of fighting off or getting away from a potential abductor. Furthermore, regular physical exercise can help decrease the chances of obesity, diabetes and heart disease in your children.

Martial Arts Teach Self-Defense Skills. Rest assured, martial arts training doesn’t focus on combat and fighting. It does, however, teach skills that your children can use for self-defense should the need arise. The various skills taught in martial arts can give your children the knowledge they need to handle many situations and the peace of mind you need to know that your children are trained to protect themselves.

Martial Arts Improve Mental Awareness. Training martial arts is not a mindless activity. It requires complete concentration and focus at all time during training. This concentration will also carry over to all parts of your children’s lives to help them be more aware of themselves and their surroundings. They will be less likely to just “zone out” and be caught off guard in a potentially harmful situation.

If you are interested in learning more about how martial arts can help your self confidence, please contact one of my three locations in Bellevue, Lynnwood or Kent, Washington at 800-508-6141or martialadvice@hotmail.com to set up a free 2 week trail orientation.

Also, please see our web pages at www.kungfutemple.com and www.martialarts-instruction.com

Sincerely,

Robert Jones
Master Instructor
6th Degree Black Belt
Owner, the Academy of Kempo Martial Arts

About the Author

Mr. Robert Jones runs three successful martial arts schools located in Bellevue, Lynnwood, and Kent Washington. He has been helping families make positive changes in their lives through martial arts for over 20 years. He has also written two guides on how to pick a martial arts school. One for adults and one for parents wanting to pick the right school for their children. He can be reached at 800-508-6141.

Action Star Suzzana Stefankovicova in talks with Ratti Entertainment
Suzzana Stefankovicova is in discussions with Ratti Entertainment Group for the “Black Salt” film and video project

Popularity: unranked [?]

Why Yoga is a Good Revenue Stream for a Martial Arts Studio
It’s that time of year again. The martial arts trade magazines have told you to turn your martial arts center into a child day care, summer camp, or a three ring circus. Parents of your young students asked how many field trips their kids were going on, and you found out you were competing with the Boys and Girls club for rock bottom day care pricing.

From White Belt to Black Belt
Belt color is one of the most important and recognizable aspects of Japanese martial art training.

Start A Profitable Martial Arts School - Small Dojo, BIG Profits!

Earn a Living Doing What You Enjoy the Most and Start A Profitable Martial Arts School!

Competent, complete, thorough information on starting a martial art school is hard to find. In fact, many of the people giving you martial arts business advice in the magazines and on the ‘net have never even run a studio…

Yet, “Small Dojo, BIG Profits!” is different. It was written by career martial arts instructor - someone who actually went through the process of starting a martial art school that turned into a very successful business. It’s the the 100% honest truth about starting a martial art school.

Without a doubt, it is the most thorough and complete martial art business manual on the market. It covers every aspect of starting and running a low-overhead, high profit martial arts studio, from A-to-Z… Nothing has been left out or held back.

Check out what Small Dojo, BIG Profits has to offer:

* Find out how to start your own martial art school with zero money and no credit

* How you can earn more money in your studio with less students (and less headaches!)

* How you can make $297,000 per year with less than 250 students

* Find out how you can make $70,000 a year working 25 hours a week or less

* The secrets to end your student recruitment frustrations for good

* How to drastically reduce or even eliminate your payroll

* and many, many more…

Now That You’ve Read This Letter, You Have Many Choices…

Choose the right one and Start A Profitable Martial Arts School now!

About the Author

For the Serious Martial Artist - Guaranteed to Teach You Proven Methods for Starting, Growing, and Running a Highly Profitable Martial Art School.

Get all the information About starting a Profitable Martial Arts School.

North America’s Devils
The Devil’s Brigade was a joint American-Canadian commando unit that was assigned some of the toughest mission in World War II. They pioneered close combat martial arts and tactics that paved the way for today’s Special Forces units.

Popularity: unranked [?]

Flexibility, Adaptibility, and The Keys to Martial Arts Mastery, Key #8

“Flexibility is the Key to Longevity.”

Think about that statement for a moment. Flexibility is the key to longevity.

I first encountered that statement almost over two decades ago while stationed with the US Army at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina. The Operations Sergeant of my Military Police unit had it blown up to poster-size and hanging on the wall behind his desk.

As with all new members assigned to the 21st MP Company, I was asked, “Do you understand what that means?” And, like most I’m sure, my response to a senior was, “Yes, sergeant.” My affirmation was not at all related to what I think of that same phrase today.

To a disgruntled young soldier who had better things to do than put up with the “hurry-up and wait” organization that I perceived then, the phrase meant, “put up with all of the changes, and changes to the changes we throw at you and you’ll last much longer.”

Ironically, I came to find that - he was right! Except that it’s not just an ‘Army thing.’ What I have come to realize is that, regardless of whether we’re talking about a fight, a relationship, or just living, life is filled with change. In fact, there is nothing more permanent than change. Isn’t that funny? The only thing that doesn’t change is change-itself. And our own individual ability to adapt to those changes in our life, determine our own level of happiness, satisfaction, and ’survivability.’

Phrases like: “There’s always something,” and, “If it’s not one thing, it’s another,” are right. They are 100% accurate and the sad thing is that - there is absolutely nothing that we can do about it. But, that’s also the good news. We can stop chasing after permanence. We can stop fighting change because it’s a losing battle. Stress, or what most people call stress, which is the tension and anxiety that occurs when things don’t go our way, is what happens when we assume that things will happen just because we want them to. We expect that the world will magically conform to our wishes without any awareness or planning on our part. “It worked yesterday,” is the general belief along with, “if it hasn’t broken yet, it won’t.”

In the scrolls of the Takagi-Yoshin school of martial warriorship that has been past down for the last several hundred years, there is a key for winning in every battle. It’s simple, and I’d like to share this age-old wisdom with you.

Are your ready? Here it is:

“Don’t enter a battle you can’t win.”

That’s it.

Our ability to be adaptable and to have more than one way of doing things is essential to winning the battles of day-to-day life.

That poster means much more to me today than it did to that young man years ago. I can still hear my Sergeant’s voice as he asks…

“…Do you understand what it means?”

And, I can hear my answer to him.

“Yes, Sergeant.”

“It means…put up with all of the changes, and changes to the changes that are thrown at you and you’ll last much longer.”

Take a deep breath…

…relax, and…

…enjoy the ride.

I’ll see you in class.

About the Author

Jeffrey Miller is the founder and master instructor of Warrior Concepts International. He is a consultant for businesses, groups, and organizations on the topic of self-protection. For more info, subscribe to his ezine here.

The Martial Arts History Museum’s Hall of Fame is Announced
The prestigous Martial Arts History Museum hall of fame ceremony is announced.

Martial Arts Museum Adds two New Board Members
The Martial Arts History Museum has added two new board members to their team.

Sonny Sison joins Black Salt Films
Sonny Sison has been a part of movies and tv shows such as “Cradle 2 the Grave” and “The Power Rangers”

Popularity: unranked [?]

Must Count Martial Arts Announces new Internet marketing strategy for firm
Must Count, a Self defense - Self Protection company updates its web marketing program

Josh Barnett, “Baby Faced Assassin,” Releases Affliction Signature Shirt at Solis
Josh Barnett, “Baby Faced Assassin,” releases new Affliction UFC Signature at Solis. Barnett made UFC history in 2002 as the youngest fighter in history to win the UFC Heavyweight Championship title. Other signature shirts in the series Randy “the Natural” Couture and Chuck “the Iceman” Liddell.

What To Expect On Your First Day Of Martial Arts

Everyone is a bit nervous on their first day of trying out martial arts, so no, you?re not alone here. Your first day of martial arts is a lot like a first date. There?s a lot of tension and you?re aware of every little move you make, but when you look back on it a year later it really isn?t that big of a deal. All you?re trying to find out is if you want to go on a second date.

The key is to remember that the class and the instructor truly do want you to succeed. But before they begin to really teach you, they need to be sure you?re a good fit for the school and the school is a good fit for you. If this balance isn?t there, then everyone is wasting their time.

Your first day of martial arts is all about getting a feel for the school, the instructor and the other students, so don?t expect to learn much. Most schools will have about a 30 minute session with a very high-level explanation of techniques and some physical fitness (pushups, sit-ups, etc.).

When I say a high-level explanation of techniques, I?m referring to basic punches and kicks. If you pick up on these quickly, there may be time for a couple of combinations as well. Don?t expect to have any physical contact with other students, in fact, you shouldn?t have any physical contact with other students. If you?re put into an uncomfortable situation on your first day, then you know the school probably isn?t a good fit for you.

There?s really no set ?agenda? for a student?s first day. The instructor is using these basic techniques to evaluate incoming students to see what areas they may need help in and to find the class that will best suit them.

At the end of your first class you should have a good ?gut feeling? about the school in general. If you?re petrified after one 30 minute session, you may want to try another school. But if the school makes you excited to come back again, then you can be pretty certain you?ve found a great fit.

Now that those first day jitters are out of the way, you can begin to work on getting your first belt.

About the Author:

Javier Lozano, Jr. has been training in the martial arts for over 15 years. He is currently part owner of Experience Martial Arts and will be opening a martial arts school shortly

Popularity: unranked [?]

Benefits of Martial Arts Training For Kids

Admit it. When the going gets tough at home, weve all plopped the kids in front of the television and breathed a sigh of relief. Finally, we can get started on dinner, maybe check email or sort that massive pile of laundry.

But when your five-year old yells at you Mom, Kids Rule! or your ten-year old horrifies you with language that would make a sailor blush, you realize there must be something amiss with what these family programs really teach our kids. And sadly, its happening all over the media today, from sports to cartoons, and our children are learning things that we, as parents, vowed we would never teach them. Old fashioned values like respect and self-discipline, seems to have been forgotten, replaced by the dreaded bling bling pop culture of today.

Just the thought of your angelic three-year old morphing into a designer-clad, smart-mouthed, money-worshipping, me-obsessed, lay-about is enough to make any parent consider that threatening military school brochure, but there is a solution out there to consider.

Martial Arts training.

From Ninja Turtles to The Karate Kid

You and your kids have all seen the flying kicks, battle cries and mighty chops of their favorite TV characters, as they beat the bad guys to submission but, you may ask, how on earth can these acts of violence teach my child anything worthwhile?

First, know that what you see on television (save perhaps the Karate Kid) is a far cry from what real martial arts are all about. The fact is, martial arts training is based on non-violence.

Originating in Asia (mainly Japan, China and Korea, although Thailand and Vietnam have their own practices as well), martial arts range from a variety of types and styles, all of which are based on well-rounded, moral teachings. The beauty of learning martial arts is that it encompasses not just the physical aspect of the sport, but mental and emotional lessons as well.

Comparing that to other kids activities and sports, where fierce competitiveness and winning at all costs seems to be the order of the day, its not surprising that many children grapple with issues of self-esteem and misplaced aggression.

Now imagine your child actually learning valuable life lessons, skills that he will take throughout life, laying the foundation for a happy, well-adjusted and fulfilled adult life. If only karate for kids was popular in the 70s, when I was growing up!

The Advantages

Karate, and other martial arts for kids, builds confidence and self-esteem as well as self-discipline, respect, concentration and courtesy.

Many martial arts schools also offer leadership courses for kids, in conjunction with their karate for kids programs, or similar lessons.

Martial Arts is ideal for children who do not do well in team sports, giving them the ability to flourish this activity, while combining physical and mental practices.

Many do not realize this, but it is a fact that martial arts training are safer than most school sports.

Children with special needs, such as ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), learning difficulties and hyperactivity are often recommended to participate in martial arts for kids because of the clear benefits in its structured training techniques.

Kung-Fu Master or Ninja Warrior?

Before you sign up Junior for the first martial arts class you see, take some time to check out the different methods available, and match it with what you know would suit your child best. This is a good way to avoid any problems that may sprout from a conflict of your childs personality and the training techniques.

Is your little Zach a sensitive soul? Then maybe a class that doesnt center on sparring (full-on kicks and punches training) but rather, slower, defensive maneuvers would fare better for him. Kids with an aggressive streak, however, may prefer the more forceful moves and thrive in competitive sparring.

Heres a quick primer on the kid-friendly martial arts training youre likely to find:

Martial Arts From Japan

Karate
Uses defensive and aggressive moves
Centers on building strength and endurance
Involves chops, punches, kicks, strikes, blocking and sparring
May use weapons

Jujitsu
Uses defensive and aggressive moves
Involves lots of sparring
Teaches a fair amount of weapons training

Aikido
Uses a more spiritual and harmonious style in redirecting the aggression of the attacker as the form of defense, using throws, pins, rolls etc.
Taught on the premise of disabling an aggressor without attacking, through your individual inner energy
Does not involve sparring or competitions

Judo
Uses gentle, wrestling-like movements
Considered one of the safest methods of martial arts
Emphasizes physical control as well as mental development
Engages in competitions

Martial Arts From China

Kung-Fu
The generic term referring to Chinese martial arts with a variety of styles
Involves attack movements as well as defensive techniques
Teaches kicks, punches, chops, throws, falls, grappling, katas, leg sweeps and blows among others.
Engages in sparring competitions

Martial Arts From Korea

Taekwondo
Competitive in nature, involves techniques using elaborate footwork and unique high kicks.
Emphasizes strength, force and attack methods.
Engages in lots of sparring and competitions.

Choosing The Right Instruction

If you have an idea of the type of martial arts class youd like your child to participate in, the next step would be to find the right school. Finding the right class that not only matches your childs and your needs, in terms of teachers you feel comfortable with, the price, facilities and so on, are all important factors.

Say youve found a local place that specializes in Karate for Kids. What are the things you should look for?

1. Good Instructors: Check out their qualifications, teaching methods and watch carefully how they interact with the other children. It should be a fun learning experience!

2. Space and Safety: Obviously you would want to entrust your child in as establishment that is safe, well-maintained, and clean with ample space as well as decent facilities and equipment.

3. School Values: Different martial arts schools inevitably go by different values, for instance, one kids karate class may handle aggression in one way, while a judo class would have a different approach. Take some time to observe which schools ideals match your familys principles.

4. Prices and Schedules: Prices for martial arts training can vary according to school and location, so make sure you the instruction you choose represents fair value. Finding the most effective way to fit martial arts training into your familys lifestyle is also essential, knowing what works best with your schedule and other activities.

Baby Blackbelts

Starting your child young in karate training is ideal (children as young as the age of four are usually accepted, as it is also a good way to hone fine motor skills), and lots of parents have found that in as little as a year, their children who were involved in martial arts had noticeably gained positive traits such as increased self-esteem, respect and overall physical fitness.

Many parents also opt to join a martial arts training program themselves, making it a great bonding experience for the entire family.

About the author:
Laura Saunders is a successful freelance writer, mother of two and a martial arts practitioner who has written articles for http://www.best-karate-equipment.com, your online guide to karate uniforms, martial arts sparring equipment, and karate training equipment.

An Overview Of The Deadly Western Sword Arts
Western sword arts are just as popular today as any of the Eastern martial arts.

Threat Assessment!
Close Quarter Combat training is not about an even playing field, It is about making sure that the situation you’re involved in is a completely uneven playing field and the scales are tipped in your favour. Consequently, you must always make a thorough threat assessment of the person you are about to engage in conflict with.

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Xyience Xenergy To Be Distributed In Longs Drugs Stores On Hawaiian Islands
Xyience forms strong distribution bond with Longs Drugs stores on Hawaiian Islands to increase sales of the premium energy drink, Xenergy. Xyience, a sports and nutritional supplements company, released Xenergy to meet the market demand for a flavorful, healthy, clean energy drink. The increase in Xenergy's success is attributed to the increase in availability through expanding distribution in such stores as Longs Drugs. (PRWeb Jul 7, 2007)

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Fight Festival in Tulsa
Multi-discipline fight festival featuring Professional Boxing, Maui Thai Kickboxing and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) being held at the Expo Square Pavilion in Tulsa, OK, on Saturday August 4, 2007 (PRWeb Jul 25, 2007)

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Alvarez, Prangley Victories Highlight Bodog Fight’s American Debut
Eddie Alvarez and Trevor Prangley Victories Highlight and other MMA Fight results at Bodog Fight's American Debut (PRWeb Jul 21, 2007)

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Karate World Champion Launches a New Line of Martial Arts Activewear Clothing

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Montreal, Quebec, Canada - January 20, 2006 — Traditional Northwest Native American Indian art is getting a boost in exposure worldwide with the help of today’s internet high technology. Previously, the only outlets to the outside world for Northwest Native American Indian art were mainly the relatively small number of street retail galleries that specialize in this traditional fine art form located in Vancouver or Seattle. Visitors to the Pacific Northwest region or those living there were the only people who got exposed to authentic Northwest Native American art.

Now, with the help of Montreal-based Free Spirit Gallery, people around the world can see and learn about Northwest Native American Indian art without leaving their homes. The Free Spirit Gallery website is loaded with beautiful color images of exquisite Northwest Native American art as well as numerous information resource articles.

Clint Leung, who created Free Spirit Gallery in 2004, says, “Our website is so informative about Northwest Native American Indian art that we’ve had many requests from students and publishers of art related ezines to use some of our information articles.”

One popular feature of the Free Spirit Gallery website is the section of eCards or electronic postcards featuring Northwest Native American art. Visitors to the website use these eCards for free to send special greetings or messages to friends online to help spread the word about Northwest Native American art. Free Spirit Gallery is the only website in the world that offers eCards with both Northwest Native American art and Eskimo Inuit art.

Through the website, fans of Northwest Native American Indian art can now continue to build their collections from the comforts of their own homes wherever they are. According to Leung, Free Spirit Gallery has shipped Northwest Native American art to happy customers all over the United States, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, France and Germany.

Because of the limitations of regional exposure, Northwest Native American artists have always had difficulties in getting their artwork out to the rest of the world. The modern technology of Free Spirit Gallery is now helping these artists gain much needed international exposure for their beautiful work.

For additional information, see www.FreeSpiritGallery.ca.

About Free Spirit Gallery:

Free Spirit Gallery is an online gallery specializing in Northwest Native American art and Eskimo Inuit art including carvings, sculptures as well as prints. Free Spirit Gallery has numerous information resource articles with photos of authentic Native Indian art and Eskimo Inuit art as well as free eCards.

Contact Information:

Clint Leung
Free Spirit Gallery
514-421-1124
http://www.FreeSpiritGallery.ca

###

About the Author

Clint Leung is a lifelong martial artist with over 32 years of training experience in kung fu, tae kwon do, karate, kickboxing and martial arts weaponry. He has won Canadian and world championship titles (NASKA, NBL and WSKF). He is also owner of Free Spirit Activewear (http://www.FreeSpiritActivewear.com) , an online retailer and designer of premium martial arts activewear. Free Spirit Activewear has martial arts info articles.

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Xyience Xenergy Enjoys Rapid Distribution with Kroger Co.
Xyience boosts distribution of the premium energy drink, Xenergy by increasing presence in Kroger Co stores from 265 to 1000 stores in 2 weeks. Xyience, a sports and nutritional supplements company, released Xenergy to meet the market demand for a flavorful, healthy, clean energy drink. The increase in Xenergy's success is attributed to the increase in availability through distribution with such companies as Kroger Co. (PRWeb Jul 7, 2007)

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No Martial Arts or Self-Defense Technique is Perfect

Far too many people who are training in the conventional martial arts or in a “quicky” self-defense program - including police and security personnel by-the-way - take for granted that all they have to do to survive a real-world attack is learn a few tricks and that’s it. When, according to the reality and nature of self-defense, no preset, memorized technique that you’ve learned in a martial arts or self-defense class is perfect in-and-of-itself for the unique situation and circumstances that you will find yourself in when you need it. And…

…that’s okay.

What’s important to learn is this…

…these techniques that everyone seems to hold up as the “holy symbols of their style,”…

…were just passed down from past-generation masters as “examples” anyway!

After you’ve been training for a significant while with a focus on being able to handle a real-world self-defense situation, rather than merely memorizing a preset string of moves for your next belt, what you’ll find is that…

…in your attempt to defend yourself in a given situation and against a unique assailant with his own ‘favorite’ techniques and attack-methods, you will actually be stringing several basic moves together in a moment-to-moment, spontaneous flow. The trick is to know your techniques so well that you can do this in what appears to be an effortless flow from one technqiue or skill to the next.

Just as I pointed out in “The Karate-Myth,” there are certain critical pieces missing from the vast majority of training programs. And, it is those key elements that MUST be managed during a physical altercation if you are to walk away with most of YOU intact.

So, if you really want to be able to use what you’ve learned in a real-world self-defense situation…

…then you must be able to give up your attachment to your “perfect techniques.”

Remember: The only people who believe that any given technique or skill is “perfect” or “unbeatable,” are those who have not been around long enough, or…

…those who have deluded themselves into believing that training in class, or competing in a tournament, is somehow equivelant to the all-out, adrenalin-triggering, knock-down, drag-out overwhelm that makes you feel like your heart will explode in your chest during the “real thing.”

Do you want to be able to survive a real attack? Do you want to not have your own training - that thing you’ve been working to study, that’s supposed to work under fire - get in the way and be the VERY thing that causes your downfall?

Sure you do. Who wouldn’t?

Then, the first thing you have to do is get over this delusion that any technique, including your “favorite,” is perfect and unbeatable. Because, if you don’t…

…it may be the very thing that gets “you” beaten!

About the Author

Jeffrey Miller is the founder and master instructor of Warrior Concepts International. He is the author of “The Karate-Myth” and the Danger Prevention Tactics video, among others. For more info, subscribe to his ezine here.

Xyience Xenergy To Be Distributed In Longs Drugs Stores On Hawaiian Islands
Xyience forms strong distribution bond with Longs Drugs stores on Hawaiian Islands to increase sales of the premium energy drink, Xenergy. Xyience, a sports and nutritional supplements company, released Xenergy to meet the market demand for a flavorful, healthy, clean energy drink. The increase in Xenergy's success is attributed to the increase in availability through expanding distribution in such stores as Longs Drugs. (PRWeb Jul 7, 2007)

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Wing Chun - Chinese Martial Art
Brief History:

Wing Chun (also known as Wing Tsun, Ving Chun or Ving Tsun) is one of the most popular types of Chinese martial arts. Though it?s basically an unarmed combat technique, Wing Chun may include weapons as part of its course. The origin of Wing Chun can be traced back to China, but the real history of its creation has long been a topic of much debate. The most credible suggestion regarding the origin of Wing Chun dates back to 1700 AD in the Henan Shaolin Monastery.

When the Qing forces raided and ravaged the Southern Shaolin temple, a nun named Ng Mui fled to the distant Daliang Mountains, the only survivor. Ng Mui already had knowledge of Kung Fu in the Shaolin temple, which she assimilated with a new form she had learnt while observing a battle between a snake and a crane. She taught this new combat style to her adopted daughter whom she named Yimm Wing Chun. The new system was refined and then passed on from generation to generation, and was eventually named Wing Chun, after Yimm.

The modernization of Wing Chun started in Hong Kong during the 1950s under a Grandmaster called Yip Man. The discipline began to gain real popularity in Asia and the West when actor Bruce Lee became one of the most famous Wing Chun practitioners.

The Concept of Wing Chun:

Wing Chun is based on three basic principles - Practicality, Efficiency and Economy of Movement.

1. Practicality: Techniques such as Palm-up Hand (tan sau), Wing Arm (bong sau), Slapping Hand (pak sau) are designed to maim the most sensitive or vulnerable parts of the opponent?s body such as throat, groin, eyes and lower torso. Many movements and techniques in Wing Chun are often meant to be fatal.

2. Efficiency: Wing Chun does not use force against force, in order to gain the most efficient manipulation of the body’s energy. It believes in accurately timed and appropriately positioned little movements, and counter-attack is based on the opponent?s own force. This concept is also called Contact Reflexes.

3. Economy of Movement: This is a linear concept in which movements are based on an imaginary pole running vertically through the center of the body. The Center Line spreads out from this Mother Line, and since most of the vital points of the body are located along the Center Line, many offensive and defensive movements are based on this line. The Central Line, on the other hand, is the shortest path between the fighters where most of the combat exchanges take place.

Wing Chun Forms:

There are three basic forms in Wing Chun:

1. Empty Hand Form: This form has three more sub-forms - Siu Nim Tao - the foundation of the art, Chum Kiu - focus on advanced footwork and entry techniques, and Biu Jee - extreme short-range or long-range techniques, low kicks and sweeps, and emergency techniques.

2. Weapon Forms: The Dragon Pole and Butterfly Swords are the two forms of weapons incorporated in Wing Chun, categorized under advanced training.

3. Wooden Dummy or the Muk Yan Jong Form: A dummy made from several wooden posts represents a human opponent. The contraption is used to perfect angle, position, and footwork.

<a href="http://martialarts-hq.com/">Martial Arts</a> HQ offers articles, tips and tricks about different martial arts.

THE MISSING MARTIAL ARTS

For those lacking a decent dictionary, allow me to edify you on the derivation of the term ?martial?; which is: an adjectival form derived from the appellation of the Roman god of war, Mars. As a form of sport or exercise, it serves as training for warfare. Being ruled astrologically by the planet Mars, it?s a term applied to ?venomous animals, or plants with violently active properties?!

An authority recently described 170 different forms of the martial arts, ranging from Aikido to Zendo, maintaining new ones were invented virtually every week by some self-styled master who had either rediscovered some long lost art in an obscure backwater, or had devised some ingenious use for a hitherto unused body part. The arts covered every letter of the alphabet, apart from E, Q, V, and X.

Accordingly, I have striven to render complete this lexicon of the martial arts. After many years of undertaking diligent research in the snowy mountain fastnesses of Japan, the rain forests of Borneo, and the nether regions of Nana Plaza, Bangkok, I have rediscovered the missing arts, which I have pleasure in presenting to novelty-seeking martial arts? aficionados for your delectation.

They are as follows:

1. Ebrangling: an exclusive, particularly hard form indulged in by edentulous geriatrics in order to effatuate their opponents. Simply put, the toothless-ancients dismount from their Zimmer frames, shuffle, successfully grapple, and ultimately clench their partners in a bear hug, violently shaking them so as to render them besotted, dull or stupid.

2. Quitching: protagonists attempt to outwit their opponents, employing techniques such as fiendishly feinting by making sudden involuntary movements, somewhat in the Bruce Lee style, without the accompanying cries from the solar plexus.

Quoted by Montaigne as, ?I have seen men .. that would neither cry out, twitch nor quitch, for a good swinging beating.?

3. Quelming: an ancient, extremely hard form indulged in by ?chyldren, and fornycatours? aiming to torment, kill, or destroy. Sadly, the techniques were expurgated as being too violent for general public consumption.

4. Vezon : a particularly enigmatic form defined by the OED as ? ?meaning obscure? - quoted by Ward as “Look, look, Joan, how the Vezons fight. Who’d think they were so full of Spite?”

5. Xenelasy: a particularly effective Spartan method to be employed for when we Brits reinvade in order to re-educate you in the correct conventions of spelling and pronunciation. Meaning ?to drive away?, it employs a variety of free-forms and is the martial art par excellence to be used for the expulsion of foreigners.

Incidentally, don?t bother to try and find these names of martial arts in condensed dictionaries like Webster?s or Frank and Wagnall?s, they?re taken from the Bible of the English Language, the Oxford English Dictionary.

Likewise, the internet won?t offer you any enlightenment on the modus operandi, or access to the dojos where these forms are practised, either, and I?m keeping the techniques secret in the interests of world peace.

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Jujitsu: History, Philosophy And Methods
Brief History:

Jujitsu is a 2500 year old unarmed combat discipline that has its roots in ancient Japan. The exact date on the creation of this martial art form is hard to trace but techniques resembling that of Jujitsu had already been incorporated into the training methods of the Samurai, from the 8th to the 6th centuries. Earliest Japanese historical records such as the Kojiki (Record of Ancient Matters) and the Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan) also have passages related to unarmed combat systems.

Before this Japanese martial art developed into what we know as Jujitsu today, there were many other Japanese combat techniques such as Kogusoku, yawara, kumiuchi, and hakuda etc, also collectively known as Sengoku Jujutsu. Traditions finally gave rise to the modern Nihon Jujutsu we know today, which is classified under Edo Jujutsu ? the true unarmed Japanese combat system.

Jujitsu gained prominence during the reign of Tokugawa in the 1600s but was soon alienated when Emperor Melse regained power. However, towards the mid-20th century, the ban on Jujitsu in Japan was lifted, following the Meiji restoration, and the combat art form began to be widely practiced.

The Philosophy:

Jujitsu revolves around three basic states of mind ? Zanshin, Mushin and Fudoshin. The proper combination of these elements gave the power, preparation and potential to the practitioner to excel in the Jujitsu art.

1. Zanshin ? ?remaining spirit? ? connotes the readiness for anything at any given time.

2. Mushin ? ?no mind? ? Its spontaneity permits instantaneous action without conscious thought.

3. Fudoshin - “immovable mind” ?during times of confrontation.

Basic Methods:

Jujitsu is a circular, hard and soft, external combat style. The basic techniques of attacks includes throws, locks, hitting and striking, thrusting and punching, pinning and immobilizing, strangling and joint-locking, with strong emphasis on throws, locks, and defensive techniques. In-fighting and close work are also focused upon.

Even though Jujitsu is basically an unarmed fighting system, small weapons like the Jitte (truncheon), Tanto (knife), or Kakushi Buki (hidden weapons), which include the Ryofundo Kusari (weighted chain) or the Bankokuchoki (a type of knuckle-duster) may also be used in combat.

Competition Systems:

Conventional Jujitsu can be dangerous, or maybe even fatal if its fundamental techniques were to be applied. So, in order to make the art a safer sport for the competitive arena, systems and rules have to be introduced. That is why most of the competition methods have incorporated ?Half-contact?, which prohibits serious attempts to knock out an opponent.

1. The Fighting System: This is the most popular method, divided into three phases. The first is for striking only, the second for striking, grappling and throwing, and the third includes ground-fighting such as chokeholds.

2. The Practical System: According to this rule, two defenders are surrounded by four attackers from four corners. Highest points go to the best defender judged upon effectiveness, oversight and control of the situation.

3. The Duo System: In this system, contestants are randomly chosen and awarded points for effective defences. The attacks are divided into four groups of five attacks each.

4. Combat Jujitsu: The most recent system developed in the United States. Victory in the competition is based on submission. The combat round between the two opponents lasts for not more than two minutes.

<a href="http://martialarts-hq.com/">Martial Arts HQ</a> offers articles, tips and tricks about different martial arts.

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SAD and How to Kick it With Martial Arts

Well, it’s that time of year again when seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is starting to affect us here in the Northwest. Even though SAD has been noted as early as the late 1800’s it wasn’t actually given a name until the 1980’s. That doesn’t mean people haven’t been suffering from it, however. Seasonal affective disorder is mostly caused by the lack of light people are exposed to this time of year. Our brains secrete a hormone called melatonin which, at increased levels, can cause symptoms of depression. This hormone is produced when your body is exposed to dark, so it makes sense that its levels rise in months when the days are shorter.

The full-blown seasonal affective disorder is thought to affect as many as 10 million Americans every year. They suffer the debilitating symptoms of depression through the fall and winter months which recede to less-drastic or non-existent symptoms in the spring and summer. Other people get the winter blues which are milder forms of the symptoms of depression such as gaining a little weight, feeling sleepy or having difficulty focusing during the fall and winter months when the weather gets colder and the sunlight gets shorter (especially with all of the rain we get).

There are many different methods of treating SAD such as light therapy (either using a special artificial light or arranging to get natural sunlight during the day), herbal aids, altering nutrition and getting the right amounts of exercise. Some methods work better for some people than they do for others, but one method that tends to help people feel more energized, less sleepy, more able to focus and concentrate and less likely to overeat and gain those extra pounds is martial arts.

Martial arts is a special kind of activity that not only treats, strengthens and improves your physical health, it also treats your mental health as well. People who practice martial arts need to be able to concentrate and focus on their training because martial arts is not an activity that you can do mindlessly. This concentration and focus eventually carries over into all other parts of your life. Furthermore, the physical exercise you get while training martial arts is energizing and will help prevent you from gaining those extra “winter pounds” that many people dread. It’s worth it to give it a try because you’ll feel better, mentally and physically, and when the weather gets nice in the spring you’ll be ready to hit the outdoors with a sense of energy that you finally didn’t lose over the winter.

About the Author

Robert Jones runs 3 successful martial arts schools in Bellevue, Lynnwood, and Federal Way Washington. For over 20 years he has been helping families to improve their lives through the practice of martial arts. To help people choose a good school he has written a comprehensive consumer guide on How to Pick a Martial Arts School

He can be

Randy “The Natural” Couture Live at Solis on Market, San Francisco on March 29th 2007
Randy “The Natural” Couture, the current Heavyweight Champion of the Ultimate Fighting Championship will be available for photos and press interviews on March 29, 2007 at Solis on Market, located at 2231 Market Street, in San Francisco between 6:30-7:00 PM.

The Cagewarriors Fighting Championships Announces A Date For Their Rescheduled Ultimate Force 2 Show
Cagewarriors are proud to announce that the previously postponed “Ultimate Force 2″ Ultimate Fighting/Mixed Martial Arts show has been rescheduled and will take place at the Doncaster Dome in South Yorkshire, England on October 15th

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The Basic Martial Art Style of Aikido
Aikido is also used as a way to discover our true paths so that we can develop our individuality. It also teaches its practitioners to unify their body and their mind so that they will become in harmony with the “universe” and with nature.

Absolute Speed and Power Striking For Martial Arts

It hardly takes much convincing to conclude that having blinding speed of punches or bone-cracking power in kicks are the most desireable assets for Martial Artists to posess. Remember Miyamoto Musashi stated in his famous text “A Book of Five Rings” that one ultimate goal of the warrior is to learn to end the fight with a single blow! That’s exactly where speed & power come in! The idea is to make them as specific as possible so as to achieve the most applicable results. In this article we will attempt to explore some of the best methods available to get those results.

Economy of Motion. Basically the more you practice your peticular techniques, the more your nervous system becomes familiar & you naturally get faster. Its a really good idea to use mirrors because you can self-coach so to say & strip away wasted movements as well as learn to utilize power centers (like the hips & legs). For example you can immediately make your punch will be twice as powerful by springing off the slightly bent legs when you execute it. Think of your body akin to a coiled up snake about to strike!

Think SPEED! Sounds simple but when you start thinking you are fast you will actually start moving faster. Get over any preconceived mental limitations you may have. The other aspect of this notion is to keep the thought of speed on the forefront of your mind. As you train to do those skills you wish to be faster & stronger at make a conscious effort to do them with your best speed & power efforts! Time yourself. Count down how many strikes or roundhouses you can land on a target or heavy bag in a 10 second period. Seek to improve your numbers every session.

Overspeed methods A.K.A. Forcing faster muscle memory! The abridged version goes like this:You have an innate speed at which muscles can fire off & move any given limb. Factors like motor unit recruitment, neural efficiency/capacity, & strength ratios effect this. What we are going to do is teach the nervous system to coordinate movement & build muscle memory at faster speeds! To speed up punches wrap a tubular resistance band or even bungee cord around your wrists and anchor the other end or have a partner stretch it out. Now release & throw the arm into motion with the added speed. Relax the opposing muscles to avoid any “braking” effects. The same proceedure can be performed on kicks by binding the band to the foot.10-20 reps 2 times aweek will be enough to develop noticeable results.

Specific drills to build power. Much can be done with a simple medicineball & even bodyweight outside of what you are already familiar with. Here are some to get started on:

Power absorbtion exercises:How the theory works is that you can’t create more power than you can absorb. So it only makes sense to start here before we start “jumping” into plyometrics! For upperbody power, drop push-ups are king! Assume a position upright but on your knees with both arms at chest level slightly more than shoulder width apart bend aprox 90?, now drop to your hands without hesitation and forcefully contract when the hands touch the floor as to limit the amount of arm bend. The higher the “drop” the more force is absorbed, thus the more power potential to develop. The same concept is easily adapted to the lowerbody by doing drops from a 4′-5′ surface landing in a 1/4 squat. For pulling power, hold yourself at the top of a pull up position & fall to “catch” yourself about 1/2 through the pull ups range of motion.You’ll find after performing as little as 10 reps each you’ll be plenty sore! Its a good idea to work these 4-8 weeks, 2 times a week before progressing to the next phase…

Plyometric Kung Fu:Okay to begin lets start with punching/pushing power. Clapping push-ups work great but I feel the need to mention that the idea is to “bounce” off of each rep. Not just get the clap in! In fact forget the clap, just repetitively hop off the floor from this position. Its the fast reaction off the landing that matters so focus on that. One idea that will work good on the legs is to depth jump right into a kick. Peticularly a jump-kick! Now these are good starters…ready to leave elementary onto High School? Get a partner & medicineball (start with light ball, please!). Have him Throw it (throw, not toss) at you. The first step its to rebound it as soon as it touches your hands. Next level of progress is to actually strike the oncoming ball out of the air with a chop, punch, palm, & even any various kicks you desire to build power onto. This drill works some serious plyo-power into your martial arts! Start with a light 3 lb. ball & slow throws gradually working up to faster throws & heavier balls.Obviosly the further you are able to displace the ball/target the more power you have gained(Like a baseball batter). Kind of works as a measuring devise as well. For you solo practitioners get a bouncy type med-ball & react off the rebound of a wall throw. Please exercise caution as this last one is alot more difficult than it sounds & takes some serious getting used to.The great thing is you can build accuracy at the same time you get faster & more powerful techniques. Lastly plyometrics like these are intense, so only work out with them 2 times a week.

Sport Combat Is Still Sport
The fact is most people don’t realize that sport combatives like boxing, mixed martial arts, wrestling and fencing are just sports.

Be Pre-Emptive in Self Defense (Hit Or Be Hit)
Many people would assume that you have to be physically struck before you can physically respond in Self Defense. Let me tell you now that this is totally untrue, well certainly in any civilized country of the World anyway. If you could only respond after you had been attacked, then it could simply be too late by then.

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Kumdo, The Martial Art Of Swordsmanship
Kumdo and Kendo are close enough in form that Kumdo teams participate in the World Kendo Championships. While there are some differences (Kumdo focuses a bit more on point strikes than power and speed), the kumdo teams do respectably.

The Amazing World of Tae kwon Do
Some important characteristics of Tae kwon do are explained, some rules used in Tae kwon do sparring, also the benefits you can get after years of practice. Also the great feeling of winning, after months of hard training.

Martial Arts Book Review: Hard Won Wisdom From the School of Hard Knocks by Alain Burrese

Being the author of several books on the martial arts and fighting, I am always looking for books of exceptional quality to add to my library. If I have a book in my library, it’s definitely worth owning. One such book is Alain Burrese’s, “Hard Won Wisdom from the School of Hard Knocks.” I had purchased Alain’s book several years ago when I had just caught the tail end of one of his seminars on Hapkido. I took the book home and read it a few days later.

Boy was I impressed! Not so much by the book itself, as I was by the author. Alain’s grasp of the philosophical aspects of the “war stories” that he recounts shows a remarkable insight into the various situations that we seem to put ourselves in, never once thinking of the possible consequences that could transpire because of our lack of foresight.

Some of the major points that I got out of Alain?s book are as follows.

The lessons that Alain teaches the reader are from his own personal experiences and, liked I stated in the previous paragraph, show a remarkable insight into how doing a couple of small easy things can keep you out of a lot of the trouble that you could easily find yourself in.

Alain has a good solid section covering the use of your hands, elbows, and knees as personal striking weapons to use against an opponent. This is more of a principle based teaching and less of a ?How To? section. I have seen way too many books that spent a lot of time on the ?How To? sections, but then little to nothing at all on the principles behind the techniques. This is definitely not the case with Alain?s book.

The one section that I was looking forward to was, in my opinion, a little too brief. Although I am sure that this is primarily because my particular field of expertise just so happens to be the section in question. This is Alain?s brief section devoted to kicking. Now although a lot of what Alain has to say on the subject I happen to agree with, there are other things that, shall I say, we share a difference of opinion.

Alain then follows up with a section on going to the ground during a fight, and the possible ramifications of what could happen once this occurs. One point that everyone should agree on, is the fact that no matter how hard you try not to, there is a 90% plus chance that if a physical confrontation lasts much more than a few seconds it will probably end up on the ground. A place you definitely don?t want to be in a self-defense situation. In my opinion, it is best to do whatever you can in order to not end up on the ground, and if you do how to quickly get back up on your feet again.

The next section gives you a brief but informative overview of training methods and fitness routines that you can and should implement in order to not only improve your fighting technique, but also to keep you in shape for normal day-to-day activities.

One section that Alain included in his book that I can?t recall ever seeing in any other books is a section dealing with women. Now you can tell by reading this section that Alain is by his very nature the knight on a white horse racing to save the damsel in distress. I find this to be a very chivalrous attitude and one that seems to be sorely lacking in today?s society. However, having said that, I would like to ask the following question, ?Who is to blame for this prevalent modern attitude, the man, or the woman?? I will leave it up to the individual to decide.

They say that hindsight is 20/20, and I happen to agree. However, if you would like to have 20/20 foresight, do the following.

1. Purchase this book

2. Sit down with this book, a notepad, and a pen.

3. Make three columns on the notepad. Mark one “Mistakes,” ?Options,? and the other
“End It.”

4. As you read this book, write down the ?Mistakes? that were made in each recounted story.

5. Then write down other ?Options? that could be used to avoid each situation.

6. And finally, if unavoidable, what other things could have been done to ?End It.?

7. After you have done this and have had the time to thoroughly digest it, sit down and write a letter to Alain thanking him for the wonderful book that you just had the opportunity to learn from. I did!

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How Important is Kata?
A few days ago, I was walking out of the bank in my town and past a Kara Te DoJo and inside I saw an instructor teaching his young students a Bo kata. I stopped to watch for a minute and could not help but notice the poor quality of the performance of techniques by the students. I quickly looked at the instructor and saw him performing these techniques improperly as well. The reason I am saying that these techniques were improper is that, the Bo Kata that they were performing lacked the internal structure which produces power and the essential techniques which would keep the bo from being taken away. That is when I realized, sadly, that there are two reasons Kata is preformed today, one for demonstration and the other for protection! In many systems the original purpose, protection, has long been deleted for the other more popular reason, demonstration? The internal techniques have slowly disappeared from the original kata.

A Word About The Historic Beginnings Of Martial Art Vital Points
The Vital Point combat arts, has been misunderstood for many different reasons. One reason that needs to be acknowledged is that the early development of these art forms were created to destroy the enemy and the need to make these arts instinctual. There fore in those days the combat arts were a lethal art. It was a war-developed form of lethal hand-to-hand combat, which would render a man inanimate by means of unconsciousness and or death, preferably within one strike.

Martial Arts and The Zone

On the occasions you delivered the perfect strike; blocked without the need to think or performed a near flawless kata, did it feel difficult? Or did you get the sense it happened by itself? If you have experienced such moments you were in The Zone. The Zone is a place where athletes describe this sort of experience. Studies suggest its a state of ‘effortless merging of action and awareness’. So what stops us from getting there? Factors such as stress or attempts to try harder can interfere. Often our efforts to train harder result in unnecessary muscular responses that prevent us reaching the effortless state of The Zone.

It is my belief that our natural state is to be in The Zone. Diligent practice of the martial arts can help us to experience this shift of consciousness. The Zone is an altered state where things can happen with little or no perceived effort. In these moments our response appears to precede conscious thought and is executed near to perfection; right timing, right effort and entirely appropriate to the situation.

I am sure we have all experienced moments like this. For example, in one competition I scored ippon with a jodan mawashi geri to the side of my opponents exposed face. Afterwards my opponent congratulated me on my technique commenting he didn’t see it coming, to which I could honestly reply, “Neither did I”. I was only aware of the execution of the technique once my leg has started its recoil. Where had it come from? At some level my senses had registered the target, selected the most appropriate technique, fired it off, made the lightest of contact and started the recovery before I had become aware of it! This was probably my ‘finest hour’. But how can we be capable of such remarkable feats one moment and be totally incompetent the next - I lost the next round and was appallingly slow.

Whilst the patterns (techniques) residing at a subconscious level can be called upon with incredible speed and effectiveness, I believe this can only happen if we are in a balanced state. Another word for this is poise, this is not to be confused with posture. Poise is a state of totally appropriate activity, both at a muscular and ‘mental’ level. When we are in this state there is ‘optimum integration of the postural reflexes, consciousness and appropriate use of learnt patterns’. That is, we can get out of the way and let the processes just happen. Nerves, tension and stress will interfere with this process if we allow ourselves to react negatively to these situations such as stiffening the neck, an action that will impede the balance reflexes. Likewise, over-confidence has a similar affect of preventing the unity of self and action as, in my view, it will reduce our level of alertness and state of readiness. The ego really should be left at the door of the dojo!

So perhaps to heighten our chances of getting into The Zone we need to focus on ‘being in the moment’. Only by being consciously aware of the moment or ‘the here and now’ can we ensure inappropriate muscular activity is not present in our actions. This takes time and involves going back to some very basic movements (pre-martial art techniques) such as everyday simple activities and Zazen to experience a stillness and awareness that will help in more demanding activities.

About the Author

Roy Palmer is a teacher of The Alexander Technique and has studied performance enhancement in sport for the last 10 years. In 2001 he published a book called ‘The Performance Paradox: Challenging the conventional methods of sports training and exercise’ and is currently working on a new project about The Zone. More information about his unique approach to training can be found at http://www.fitness-programs-for-life.com/martial_arts_training.html

Popularity: unranked [?]

Benefits of Martial Arts Training For Kids

Admit it. When the going gets tough at home, weve all plopped the kids in front of the television and breathed a sigh of relief. Finally, we can get started on dinner, maybe check email or sort that massive pile of laundry.

But when your five-year old yells at you Mom, Kids Rule! or your ten-year old horrifies you with language that would make a sailor blush, you realize there must be something amiss with what these family programs really teach our kids. And sadly, its happening all over the media today, from sports to cartoons, and our children are learning things that we, as parents, vowed we would never teach them. Old fashioned values like respect and self-discipline, seems to have been forgotten, replaced by the dreaded bling bling pop culture of today.

Just the thought of your angelic three-year old morphing into a designer-clad, smart-mouthed, money-worshipping, me-obsessed, lay-about is enough to make any parent consider that threatening military school brochure, but there is a solution out there to consider.

Martial Arts training.

From Ninja Turtles to The Karate Kid

You and your kids have all seen the flying kicks, battle cries and mighty chops of their favorite TV characters, as they beat the bad guys to submission but, you may ask, how on earth can these acts of violence teach my child anything worthwhile?

First, know that what you see on television (save perhaps the Karate Kid) is a far cry from what real martial arts are all about. The fact is, martial arts training is based on non-violence.

Originating in Asia (mainly Japan, China and Korea, although Thailand and Vietnam have their own practices as well), martial arts range from a variety of types and styles, all of which are based on well-rounded, moral teachings. The beauty of learning martial arts is that it encompasses not just the physical aspect of the sport, but mental and emotional lessons as well.

Comparing that to other kids activities and sports, where fierce competitiveness and winning at all costs seems to be the order of the day, its not surprising that many children grapple with issues of self-esteem and misplaced aggression.

Now imagine your child actually learning valuable life lessons, skills that he will take throughout life, laying the foundation for a happy, well-adjusted and fulfilled adult life. If only karate for kids was popular in the 70s, when I was growing up!

The Advantages

Karate, and other martial arts for kids, builds confidence and self-esteem as well as self-discipline, respect, concentration and courtesy.

Many martial arts schools also offer leadership courses for kids, in conjunction with their karate for kids programs, or similar lessons.

Martial Arts is ideal for children who do not do well in team sports, giving them the ability to flourish this activity, while combining physical and mental practices.

Many do not realize this, but it is a fact that martial arts training are safer than most school sports.

Children with special needs, such as ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), learning difficulties and hyperactivity are often recommended to participate in martial arts for kids because of the clear benefits in its structured training techniques.

Kung-Fu Master or Ninja Warrior?

Before you sign up Junior for the first martial arts class you see, take some time to check out the different methods available, and match it with what you know would suit your child best. This is a good way to avoid any problems that may sprout from a conflict of your childs personality and the training techniques.

Is your little Zach a sensitive soul? Then maybe a class that doesnt center on sparring (full-on kicks and punches training) but rather, slower, defensive maneuvers would fare better for him. Kids with an aggressive streak, however, may prefer the more forceful moves and thrive in competitive sparring.

Heres a quick primer on the kid-friendly martial arts training youre likely to find:

Martial Arts From Japan

Karate
Uses defensive and aggressive moves
Centers on building strength and endurance
Involves chops, punches, kicks, strikes, blocking and sparring
May use weapons

Jujitsu
Uses defensive and aggressive moves
Involves lots of sparring
Teaches a fair amount of weapons training

Aikido
Uses a more spiritual and harmonious style in redirecting the aggression of the attacker as the form of defense, using throws, pins, rolls etc.
Taught on the premise of disabling an aggressor without attacking, through your individual inner energy
Does not involve sparring or competitions

Judo
Uses gentle, wrestling-like movements
Considered one of the safest methods of martial arts
Emphasizes physical control as well as mental development
Engages in competitions

Martial Arts From China

Kung-Fu
The generic term referring to Chinese martial arts with a variety of styles
Involves attack movements as well as defensive techniques
Teaches kicks, punches, chops, throws, falls, grappling, katas, leg sweeps and blows among others.
Engages in sparring competitions

Martial Arts From Korea

Taekwondo
Competitive in nature, involves techniques using elaborate footwork and unique high kicks.
Emphasizes strength, force and attack methods.
Engages in lots of sparring and competitions.

Choosing The Right Instruction

If you have an idea of the type of martial arts class youd like your child to participate in, the next step would be to find the right school. Finding the right class that not only matches your childs and your needs, in terms of teachers you feel comfortable with, the price, facilities and so on, are all important factors.

Say youve found a local place that specializes in Karate for Kids. What are the things you should look for?

1. Good Instructors: Check out their qualifications, teaching methods and watch carefully how they interact with the other children. It should be a fun learning experience!

2. Space and Safety: Obviously you would want to entrust your child in as establishment that is safe, well-maintained, and clean with ample space as well as decent facilities and equipment.

3. School Values: Different martial arts schools inevitably go by different values, for instance, one kids karate class may handle aggression in one way, while a judo class would have a different approach. Take some time to observe which schools ideals match your familys principles.

4. Prices and Schedules: Prices for martial arts training can vary according to school and location, so make sure you the instruction you choose represents fair value. Finding the most effective way to fit martial arts training into your familys lifestyle is also essential, knowing what works best with your schedule and other activities.

Baby Blackbelts

Starting your child young in karate training is ideal (children as young as the age of four are usually accepted, as it is also a good way to hone fine motor skills), and lots of parents have found that in as little as a year, their children who were involved in martial arts had noticeably gained positive traits such as increased self-esteem, respect and overall physical fitness.

Many parents also opt to join a martial arts training program themselves, making it a great bonding experience for the entire family.

About the author:
Laura Saunders is a successful freelance writer, mother of two and a martial arts practitioner who has written articles for http://www.best-karate-equipment.com, your online guide to karate uniforms, martial arts sparring equipment, and karate training equipment.

New Kimbo Slice Post Mercer Interview
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King of the Cage and Lake of the Torches Resort Casino Announce Fight Card for Upcoming Event to be Held in Lac du Flambeau, Wisconsin, on Saturday, July 21, 2007
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Pondz Family Fitness & Learning Center Opens in Largo
Pondz Family Fitness & Learning Center announces its grand opening in Largo on June 30, 2007 with a mix of adult fitness classes, personal training and youth afterschool programs for area residents. (PRWeb Jul 1, 2007)

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Throwing a Better Jab
Your jab is your most important punch, so learn to make the most of it.

Shaolin Chi Sao
Chi Sau which translated means Sticking Hands has had much exposure throughout the world through the Wing Chun System. However besides the Poon Sau or Lok Sau (Rolling hands) platform used in most Wing Chun Systems, there also exist a less well known and obscure platform called Teng Sau which translated mean Listening Hands.

Facts about Martial Arts for Kids - Part 1

There are many myths about martial arts training, and the general public accepts some as fact. In the following article, I have outlined general guidelines, and precautions, for parents who are considering enrolling their child, or children, into martial arts.

Below, I have listed some common issues and questions that parents often ask about martial arts for their children. Also, you will be much more informed about the benefits of martial arts, the structure with a martial arts school, and know what to realistically expect.

What should I be looking for in a martial arts school?
Safety comes as a first priority for parents who seek
martial arts instruction for their children. Here are a number of key factors to consider:

Is safety equipment used when children are performing
exercises and drills that require contact? This is
especially important when children are sparring in martial arts. In many martial arts schools, sparring equipment is required, or the child cannot spar. The number of injuries resulting from sparring in Karate, Kung Fu, and Tae Kwon Do is surprisingly low in comparison to many league sports.

Never the less, I once had a father pull his son out of our martial arts school because he found a karate studio that would let his son “fight” without protective equipment. In our school, it is mandatory to wear martial arts equipment for the safety of the students. Sparring equipment has come a long way, so why not use it?

The flooring surface should match the martial art. If take downs, sweeps, and throws are required, there should be some kind of matted floor available. Many of the state-of-the-art martial arts schools have a floor surface specifically designed for martial arts. It makes no sense to have anyone throw a classmate on a hard floor, with the type of flooring available, as this can result in long-term injuries.

Can parents watch Karate classes?

Let’s put it this way, if you cannot watch your child
practice karate, or any other martial art, you should find another school. I can appreciate the fact that some martial arts instructors don’t want to deal with interfering parents. This is the reason for rules and signs.

Remember the “hockey dad” incident? There are a few people who, through their own conduct, create rules for the rest of us. However, you are the parent and are entitled to see your child train in karate or any martial arts class.

Fire exits, fire extinguishers, and someone who monitors visitors, as they enter a karate studio full of children, should be standard features. We have three fire exits and one main entrance, in our studio, but only one door is used for an entrance. Kids understand security because they see the same precautions in elementary school.

Also, watch out for poles in the middle of the room. Adults will spot them, but an excited child in a karate class may forget and end up crashing into one. Make sure that you feel secure about the studio, surroundings, rules, and the staff before you make a decision to have your child take martial arts classes.

? Copyright 2005 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

About the Author

Paul Jerard is the director of Yoga teacher training at Aura in RI. He’s a master instructor of martial arts and Yoga. He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness. He wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? For Yoga students wanting to be a Yoga teacher.
http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org

When You Spar, How Hard Should You Hit?
Improve your martial arts training with a realistic look at options for various levels of contact sparring

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An Insider’s Look At The Benefits Of Karate
Karate can help people of all ages create a sense of discipline in their lives both physically and mentally as well. Before you begin to learn this martial art, it is important to first understand its true meaning behind karate…

The Bokken - martial arts training sword

A bokken, also known as a bokuto or wooden sword, is a Japanese sword. These wooden swords are usually the approximate shape and size of a katana, however you can find them in wakizashi and tanto sizes as well.

Several martial arts use the bokken as an inexpensive and safer alternative to a real sword for training purposes. You see them used most often when a practitioner of iaido has recently entered training and it is not yet safe for an iaito to be used. Another common use for a bokken is when a veteran iaidoka engages in particular kata with another person and it safety needs to be taken into account. Some bokken are designed solely for sword drawing. These bokken usually come with a plastic or wooden saya and are not well suited for regular sword techniques as they are slimmer than regular bokken.

You will find use of a bokken in both kenjutsu and aikido training, although aikido is usually an empty handed discipline. When a bokken is used as part of an aikido dojo it is primarily a tool to enhance focus, not a weapon. A hand guard is usually not necessary with a bokken as there is a smooth transition between the blade and the handle. Some bokken, however, do have a clearly defined transition between the handle and blade and accept a hand guard, also known as a tsuba.

Using a bokken for training allows the practitioner to get familiar with the form of the blade and the technique for making proper strokes, as well as giving them an opportunity to practice the kata (form). Bokken are commonly used for the practice of kendo. The curved form of the blade and the presence of a hand guard or tsuba to block and opponents strike are integral parts of several kata. You could not get the same training with a shinai which uses a straight “blade”.

There are several factors that come in to determining the quality of a bokken, including the type of wood used, the overall quality of the wood, and the expertise of the craftsman. All of these go into the production of a high quality bokken.

The selection of wood for a bokken is the most important element. Many inexpensive bokken are mass produced using a very porous wood from South East Asia that gives you a bokken that is likely to break with even moderate contact. The only real use for this type of bokken is for kata. The wood used for these low quality bokken is so porous that you can sometimes see the wood putty that is used to fill large holes when the varnish is removed.

Not all wood from Asia is bad for bokken production. There are some Asian species of red oak that will make longer lasting bokken as they
have a relatively tighter grain. North American species of red oak should not be used in the production of bokken.

Some of the best woods for the production of bokken that are still relatively inexpensive include Japanese white oak, known as Kashi, and
hickory. Kashi is nice because it has a tighter grain than any species of red oak. Hickory works well due to its hardness and ability to resist impact.

The more expensive bokken will be produced using exotic hardwoods such as Brazilian cherrywood (Jatoba) and purpleheart. Some of the costliest bokken are produced using Lignum Vitae. While many tropical woods have the heaviness that is desired for bokken production they are not often used because of their tendency to be brittle and therefore break easily. When a bokken is being used for paired practice that involves contact with other swords it is best to avoid exotic woods.

With all this being said it is important to note that each individual piece of wood has its own characteristics, such that two bokken make
from the same type of wood can be of quite different quality.

A bokken that has been designed for suburi, or solo cutting exercise, is called a suburito. Since suburito are heavier and thicker than
normal bokken good technique will need to be paired with strong muscles to wield one correctly. Suburito are usually not used for paired exercises as their weight tends to make them out of balance.

Bokken have as long a history as Japanese blades, and were often used for the training of warriors. There is a kenjutsu master named Miyamoto Musashi who is renowned for combating armed foes with just a bokken or two. He is said to have defeated many a master swordsman with this method, including slaying Sasaki Kojiro with a bokken which had been produced from a broken oar.

About the Author

Steven Gregoire has been training in the martial arts since 1986. Currently
he operates Tigerstrike.com A martial art
equipment and supply store.

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Understanding Martial Arts A Little Better

Martial arts is a term that is used to describe a system of fighting that is very unique but often quite varied. The system has codes and rules to it. It is not one that has weapons, especially any type of modern day weapons, but one that focuses the body and the mind to have them work as one. It is used for traditional uses, for sport in competitions around the world, for fitness, for self defense although it does not teach to go out and fight but to defend and for improvement of the self. For this aspect, there are several things that martial arts can do. It can help to keep you mentally disciplined, provide self cultivation such as that of meditation and provide for self confidence. Character development is the key to martial arts.

Martial arts have been practiced for many years. It can be dated as far back as 2500 years ago in the Zhou Dynasty. Here, students would master the Six Arts which including rites, calligraphy, mathematics, charioteering, archery and music.

The systems that are used within martial arts are quite varied. Here are some of the various focuses of them.

* Kicking which can be found in Tae kwon do, Capoeira and tantui.
* Striking which is a main element and is found in karate, Wing Chun, Bando and Southern Praying Mantis.
* Weapons. In some forms such as Iaido, Kendo, Fencing, and Bojutsu, there is the use of old style weaponry.
* Grappling and throwing are also evident. Here they are used in such forms as wrestling, Judo, Shuai Jiao, Sambo, Naban, and Qin Na.

Most individuals that study martial arts will study several or many of these different areas of combat. Other forms such as those that come from traditional Chinese arts teach more including acupuncture, acupressure and bone setting as part of the study of traditional Chinese Medicine.

Today, martial arts are quite misunderstood. Many have seen it done on television in various movies and have come to think of it as just a style of fighting. But, there is much more to it than that. It is not only in the combat element that martial arts are quite powerful, but also in the element of self control and character building. Many parents allow children who misbehave to take classes not to teach them to fight, but to teach them control.

About the Author

This article was written by T.Potter. You can visit Genuine Martial Arts for further information and martial arts resources.

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Solis Releases Chuck Liddell, The Iceman Affliction Signature Tee in UFC 71
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The Cagewarriors Fighting Championships Announces A Date For Their Rescheduled Ultimate Force 2 Show
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Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year) 2007, “Week of Workshops” near Annapolis
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7 Quick and Natural Ways to Increase Your Energy for Martial Arts Training

“7 Quick and Natural Ways to Increase Your Energy for
Martial Arts Training”

-by Joshua Black

? 2006 Joshua Black -All Rights Reserved

1. A no-brainer, but most people don’t follow it: Get at least
8 hours of sleep each night. Actually the perfect amount of
sleep has been found to be 8.2 hours. No amount of pills,
potions, or energy drinks can make up for the lack of required
sleep

2. Drink a ton of water on the days that you train. Slam 2-3
glasses 20 minutes before training to make sure your body is
adequately hydrated before you sweat profusely for a few hours.
Hydrate well during your workout too. You’re mostly made of
water, don’t lose it at the gym.

3. Take a multi-vitamin every day. Most of the food we eat
no longer contains all of the vitamins we need, despite how
good (or bad) your intentions are. Choose a multivitamin of
high quality, and pick one that is sex-specific. Women need
iron supplements, men don’t. Men should have a lycopene
additive. You may also want to add an additional large dose
of vitamin C (500 mg+). You will notice a huge difference
in your daily energy if you have picked high quality vitamins.
The change usually takes 1-2 weeks to notice.

4. 10-15 minutes of meditation and deep breathing just before
working out. Find a quiet place to sit. Close you eyes and focus
only on your breathing, nothing else. This will empty your mind
of energy-draining stress and will dump extra oxygen into your
system, getting your body ready for training.

5. Eat a thick peanut butter and jelly sandwich on wheat bread,
15-20 minutes before working out. The peanut butter will
provide you with long lasting protein energy, while the jelly will
give you that quick sugar boost to get you started during cardio
training. The wheat bread is used instead of white, to avoid the
fat-generating carbs from white flour.

6. Perform the cardio portion of you workout first when you have
peak energy, then focus on forms and technique. This will give
your body all of the advantage it needs to get optimum training
results, and then your mind will be clear for techniques later.

7. Eat small meals 4-6 times a day, instead of 2-3 large ones.
This will keep your metabolism level up all day long and give
you increased energy, instead of feeling like you gorged yourself
3 times a day like most people.BREAK#

#TITLE#Martial Arts Secrets Used By Military Special Ops

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Imagine that you come home one evening with TONS of work to do on your computer and need to do quickly. As you pull into your driveway, you notice that the local phone company is putting in underground cables in the front yard of both of your neighbors. No big deal since they’re not digging big holes in your lawn, right? In fact, you’re relieved that they’re not digging in your yard since that reduces the likelihood they’ll do any damage to your house.

How to Incapacitate the Opponent, Using Throws, Locks, and Striking Techniques
Jujitsu is so effective because the Jujitsu throws and grapples can be accomplished even by small martial artists. These techniques combined with the Jujitsu submissions allows skilled fighters to win against strong fighters on the merit of their moves and techniques. In many ways, this is the heart of martial arts.

Failure is Not an Option! - “Attitude” and the Keys to Martial Arts Mastery, Key #7

One of the most important traits of any successful person is one of total commitment and passion for what it is that they are doing. They see their goal; they devise a plan for reaching it; and, the set about doing what is necessary to attain that goal.

This is something that has been repeated in uncountable books on success and personal achievement as-well-as here in this newsletter. I have written and re-written about it - I have spoken and reiterated my points again and again in class. But still I see my students and others that I care about settling for average results and the unfortunate habit of excuse-making.

Why is this so?

I believe that it is due to our need to have a ‘back-up’ plan should we not succeed.

Not succeed?!

If we have set a realistic goal (growing gills and moving in with our goldfish is not a good example!), we have worked out a plan of action, and, we are prepared to do what’s necessary, why then would we need a plan of action should we not succeed?!

Now, I’m not being funny, or mean, or unrealistic. What I am doing is pointing out what I, and from what I have been able to find out about the psychology of success, every other successful person sees as a ‘flaw in logic.’

The flaw is in the understanding of ‘having a back-up plan if we don’t succeed.’ If we don’t succeed at what? If we’re following the plan and we’re on track, aren’t we getting at least closer all the time? And if not, what IS happening that is preventing us from reaching our goal - not enough time, an unforeseen circumstance, lack of experience, knowledge or resources?

The point here is that, very often, we set ourselves up for failure by designing something into the equation that will make it OK to fail. I don’t mean that we necessarily set out to fail, just that we provide an excuse before we need one.

Here’s an example. My son has a goal to enlist in the Navy. He is doing this to gain both knowledge and experience for a future job with a major airline as an aircraft engine mechanic. He has set up the necessary interviews, obtained the requirements for enlistment as-well as those for getting the job that he is after. Unfortunately he is overweight and as a result, will have to lose weight or, at the very least, get to a point where his measurements meet the minimum standards. He has set one date after another for the enlistment, but has not lost enough by each date to qualify for enlistment.

A friend of his, someone who is very concerned for his welfare has suggested heavily that he start looking for an apartment, as-well-as gathering information about car insurance, etc., just in case he doesn’t meet his latest goal. The idea being that he will have a back-up plan should he not make it.

A look at this story should bring one very important question to mind:

“What is the goal here?”

Is the goal to begin a career in the Navy or to move out on his own? While both would accomplish the later, this is not the goal. And the so-called back-up plan does not contribute to the attainment of that goal. In this scenario, failure - not attaining the desired goal - has been wired into the equation.

The point is not whether or not to have a back-up plan but to make sure that any such plans contribute to the accomplishment of the goal. This is more aptly called a ‘contingency plan.’
Why was he not able to enlist by those other dates? Setting an unrealistic time to accomplish the task? Not carrying through on what needed to be done? These are questions that a contingency plan will handle.

In these cases, his so-called back-up plans would include: moving the date, recommitting to the goal, giving himself a worse-case alternative as an incentive to achieving the goal, etc.

The idea here is that we need to clearly understand the goal and what we want to get. Then, any back-up or contingency plan would work to go over, under, around, or through any obstacles that popped up. It would not cause us to drop our goal and drastically change what we are doing as ‘just another option.’

Remember, to successful people…

…failure is never an option!

About the Author

Jeffrey Miller is the founder and master instructor of Warrior Concepts International. He is a consultant for businesses, groups, and organizations on the topic of self-protection. For more info, subscribe to his ezine here.

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MyFitnessFormula.com Adds to Its Line of Home Fitness Products
In an effort to get everyone involved in fitness, even children and senior citizens, the online product offerings of Myfitnessformula.com have been expanded greatly in the past few days. (PRWeb Jun 11, 2007)

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Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Champions Frank Mir and Renato ‘Babalu’ Sobral to Clash at Tuff-N-Uff’s ‘Unarmed Combat’
Former UFC(r) Champion Frank Mir will take on Renato "Babalu" Sobral at Tuff-N-Uff's "Unarmed Combat" on June 22 at the South Point Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. (PRWeb Jun 20, 2007)

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Reflex Training Ideas For Martial Arts,Boxing, Squash, Etc.

Cat Like Reflex Training Methods

It can go with out saying that whatever your sport, improved reaction time & response time a.k.a. reflex speed will be vital. Any & even the slightest improvements in this skill can have astonishing results on your game. Think about it for a moment? even if you could shoot, move, and jump like MJ you?d still be at his mercy if you didn?t have his eyes. Meaning react unexpectedly, see defenders before they move, & beat the head fakes. Again this carries over to most every sport imaginable. Take the boxer, his whole game, the entire fight is react as fast as possible before your opponent does & don?t get faked out!

Before we get started I want to clarify a couple things. There are 3 phases of speed. 1) Reaction time: This is the perception of an attack, or rather the interval between stimulus and the beginning of response. 2) Response time: This is the time it takes to choose an appropriate response to the initiation of the actual movement. 3) And finally, movement-speed. Quite simply how quick your counter punch is or how fast your body moves getting out of the way of trouble, etc. You will notice some of these examples seem geared more towards martial artist and there methods of training but not to worry you?ll also see how the can be adapted to any sport.

Reaction & Recognition

Woods Running: I can?t think of an easier drill to start doing that requires no training partners or equipment for enhancing coordination & reflex speed. All that is needed is a little bit of nature, so go to a local park with a batch of thick untamed woods, shrubs, ditches, canals and other natural obstacles. What makes this a Grand exercise is that you have to react with your body in very unpredictable ways, uneven footing, while making cuts, ducks, jumps, bobs, & shuffling of the feet. The key to a successful session is RUN FAST! Yes the faster you run the harder adapting will be. Interestingly enough your mind will be so preoccupied with this live video game that you won?t even notice how winded your getting! You can make this drill harder in a couple simple ways. 1) Try putting on an eye patch. This creates a major deficit in depth perception. 2) Try this wearing sunglasses, giving you less distance vision in a shady wooded area. 3) Simply add ankle weights, that will throw off your innate sense of timing.

Dodge Ball: “If you can dodge a wrench, you can dodge a ball”-Patches O?Houlihan. And if you can dodge a dodgeball the way I?m going to challenge you to, you?ll evade anything that?s slower than a bullet! So to start you need a partner to be a thrower. You can switch up to make it fun & interesting for both of you. Begin at about 10? apart and use a soft rubber or foam ball. Start slow, then as you get better have the pitcher increase his velocity & get closer. Here?s a short list of some variables you should use to continually make dodgeball more challenging & fun. 1) Use multiple throwers. 2) Start with eyes closed and have the pitcher cue you before he throws. 3) Thrower can disguise his toss with “feints”. 4) Color code balls: Red ball = catch, blue = dodge, green = strike. These force you to recognize as well as react.

Solo Wall Bounce: Stand in front of a wall with any kind of ball that bounces. Throw and catch. Make this more difficult by: increasing your velocity, standing closer to the wall, progressing to smaller balls, switching catch/throw hands, and starting facing away from the wall, throwing the ball over your shoulder then turning around at the sound of it hitting the wall. Jump USA sells a “reaction” ball that looks like an odd, uneven bouncing ball that can go in any given direction. These sell for about $10. Pick one up after you?ve mastered my previous methods of bouncing!

Response Times

Once you?ve learned how to appropriately identify stimulus and speed up the recognition, or need to do something, the next phase of training deals with programming your nervous system with a proper response. This will just as easily improve your overall speed. If you see things even before they happen what good is it if your body clumsily tries to move? You need to have a storehouse of nervous “memory” responses that are quick, smooth, & graceful.

Balloon Kicks: This exercise is mostly a coordination builder but it is so fun I had to throw it in. It will improve timing, accuracy and responsiveness quickly without seeming tedious at all. Blow up a balloon and go into a room that has numerous natural obstacles like chairs, stools, counters, & coffee tables. If you?re so inclined, get some cones and small objects to clutter the floor. Now, start kicking the balloon with the purpose of not letting it touch the floor. Kick, kick, kick! If It drops you lose. Time your self to see how long you can last each session.

Side Shuffles: Here one your football & basketball coaches wish they knew. If you have access to a treadmill you will make agility leaps & bounds. You are certainly going to look ridiculous doing this but that?s ok, my theory is the more embarrassing your training is the better it works! Hey I was training with jumpsoles back when they first hit the scene, before they were the commodity everyone knows them as. Now picture this skinny 17 year old Florida boy sprinting up and down blacktops in Giant horseshoe like strap-ons. Yeah I got funny looks! So will you. Anyway what you need to do is crank that machine up to 5mph to start and gallop if you will, sideways trying to gradually increase the speed to your limit. Switch sides. Next slow it back down to 5mph and try cross-stepping front & back. See what your threshold is in terms of mph. Your objective is a slight increase each session. Final set is backpedaling. Better start slower than the 5, this ones harder. The treadmill is necessary because if forces a pace. Next time some ball hog tries to take you on a dribble he?ll have another thing coming!

Visual Speed & Acuity

Video Games: This is a perfect way to enhance response action, and visual perception all while having fun! You don?t need to go out and purchase a $200 X-box, a simple Gameboy to carry around for the next time your waiting to renew your plates or visit the dentist s fine. Stay away from the Mrs. Pac-man that you?ve mastered ages ago. Try something new & challenging, change-up every other time you play to keep it unpredictable! I recommend 2 days a week for 30 minutes a little video gaming. It?s training!

Peripheral Driver: Not much need to go into the importance of side vision awareness & expansion, its usefulness carries over to every sports activity imaginable. You need to know if a potential defender or tackle is just out of your sight coming up the sides of your vision. Here is a great way to develop your P.V. while driving. Next time you?re on the road try to be consciously aware when you catch a glimpse of a vehicle in the corner of your eye. Call out the color or make if you can. Gradually you?ll be noticing them much sooner. The real trick is jut remembering to practice it when you get in the car so my suggestion is to write it on the rear view with dry erase.

Eye Accommodation: Or rather the ability for you eyes to quickly adjust from focusing on objects close to far. Rapid adjustments in depth perception, is a skill that can be developed quickly & easily. This will play a key role in how well you can respond. If a fist is flying at your face you need to be able to zoom in before you can gauge an appropriate counter move. Try these 2 simple drills once daily. Hold a pen out at arms length, now look across the room about 20 ft away. Shift your focus from a far object, then back to the pen several times quickly. Rest and repeat, changing the proximity of the pen (closer to your face) every couple of sets. This is known as shifting. The next drill is called figure 8?s. Hold your thumb up at arms length & begin moving it in yes, figure 8?s. While you?re doing this also bring your thumb closer & further from the face a well as vary the speed at which your thumb moves every 10 seconds.

There I scratched (meowch!) the surface of what can be done to start your transformation from slow to whoa! Let me close by saying a lot has to do with what your tying your brain up with at the moment. So put all those pesky thoughts away during your next game, & just BE THERE! Absorb yourself in your tactile senses just like a feline would!There’s way more secrets i’ll reveal another time like better drills, brain sharpeners, simple tricks to play, drills you can do while watching TV, and even supplements that can improve your reflex speed immediately! In the mean time give these examples a try a couple days a week & in as little as 2 weeks you will be quite impressed with the progress!

Pondz Family Fitness & Learning Center Opens in Largo
Pondz Family Fitness & Learning Center announces its grand opening in Largo on June 30, 2007 with a mix of adult fitness classes, personal training and youth afterschool programs for area residents. (PRWeb Jul 1, 2007)

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