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

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Imagine you’re having a great day and on your way to class to train. You’ve been looking forward to training all day and can hardly contain yourself. As you’re warming up on the mat, you think of all the things you need to work on during and after class and your head is focused on having a good training session when suddenly… BAM!… he walks onto the mat and starts to warm up. There he is… your very own mat bully!

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Fun Games for Children Training in Martial Arts

Keeping children interested in their Martial Arts training requires an element of fun and games. Traditionalists are usually only concerned with the discipline and structure of their training, but incorporating fun games involving proper techniques will add to the value of training and keep the kids interested.

Keeping children interested in their Martial Arts training requires an element of fun and games. Traditionalists are usually only concerned with the discipline and structure of their training, but incorporating fun games involving proper techniques will add to the value of training and keep the kids interested.

Here are a few fun games and activities that utilize Martial Arts skills to keep the enthusiasm high and kids interested in their training.

Sensei Says

Sensei Says is a take off of the old Simon Says Game. In this version the instructor or parent would call out various martial arts techniques for the children to perform.

One instructor or parent is designated as Sensei or Leader. Children are instructed to follow and perform the commands of the Sensei only if the command is initiated by the words Sensei Says. The leader will call out various commands. If the child does not perform the task when initiated by the words Sensei Says they are out of the game. If the leader commands a task without using the prompt Sensei Says and the child performs the task, then the child is out of the game. Last child remaining wins.

Wild & Crazy Blocker

Requirements: 2 padded foam blockers.

The instructor or parent will attempt to strike the child with the padded foam blocker. The attempted strikes should vary from left side to right side, and to various body points, including Head, Chest, Stomach, and Legs.

The child will use their martial arts blocking skills to block those strikes.

Each time a strike connects without the child blocking or shielding they receive a point. Three points or three strikes and they are out.

Danger Alley

Requirements: 4 people, various Martial Arts Foam Blockers, Body Shields, Target Squares.
A diagram is available at
www.aimusainc.com/files/PDF/dangeralley.pdf

Danger Alley is a simple and easy obstacle course in which the child goes from station to station. At each station the child must perform a self-defense or marital arts technique to stop an Attack or Danger.

A minimum of four stations with various situations is recommended.

Station One (The Escape)
An instructor or parent will subdue the child by grabbing and holding on to the childs wrist. The child must then perform an escape maneuver. Once the child escapes they proceed to Station Two.

Station Two (The Block)

When the child proceeds to station two, they encounter a would be attacker, attempting a punch or strike. An instructor or parent using a padded foam blocker will attempt to strike the child. The child should attempt to block the strike using a martial arts technique and then proceed to station three.

Station Three (The Punch)

When the child proceeds to station three, they encounter another would be attacker. The child performs a martial arts punch technique to stop the attack. An instructor or parent would hold a padded target square, which the child would punch. The child then proceeds to station four.

Station Four (The Kick)

When the child proceeds to station four, they encounter another would be attacker. The child performs a martial arts kick technique to stop the attack. An instructor or parent would hold a padded Body Shield, which the child would kick. After completing the four stations the child has successfully conquered Danger Alley.

Martial Arts trainings can be fun for children just by incorporating the techniques and skills into activities and games.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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Martial Arts - 9 Questions To Ask When Looking For A School

Thinking of taking Martial Arts? Choosing a Martial Arts school can be intimidating, but not if you do some research first. Knowing these nine questions to ask before you pick any school for yourself or your child will ensure a positive experience.

1. Do you have belt test fees? And if so, how much are they? If they do, make sure you ask what they charge for each belt, so you know your true costs.

2. Do they mix adults with kids when training? Most schools consider an adult to be 12 or 13. You do not want to pair up with a youth if you are an adult. It slows down your training.

3. Do they do tournaments? Many places will say yes, but you don’t have to participate. Well let me tell you, the four weeks before the tournament, most schools are so busy getting ready for it, you will be a punching bag until the tournament is over.

4. Do they allow the public to watch the classes? I really dislike being watched while I teach or practice. Do you really want to be trying to learn an advance move that looks real funny, with people on the side lines laughing at you? Most of my students don’t, so we do NOT allow it, except during the kid’s class. All parents are allowed to watch their kids if they want to. If the school doesn’t allow that - watch out.

5. What style do they teach? I am a traditionalist. I like to teach and learn only one style. Many incomplete styles have to bring in different systems to complete their style. Not a good thing. Imagine speaking a quarter English, a quarter French, a quarter Spanish, and a quarter Russian. You would never learn to write. Try to stick to a complete system that isn’t just the flavor of the month.

6. What type of screening process do they have? Can just anybody train? Remember, you will be learning a martial art, and in the course of things, someone will be punching and kicking at you. It’s nice to know that the instructor screened his students (All my students go through an ongoing screening process, starting with the very first interview and first lesson).

7. How often can I come in? I allow my students full access to the training hall all day long, five days a week. If you can only come down twice a week, that’s ok if that works for you. I just know that working with adults, their schedule is always changing, so we have to change with them. Just be aware of what you can and can’t do. If all the sudden you cannot make your seven o’clock lesson, do they have another time for you?

8. Who teaches the class? Are they paid instructors or just teenage helpers trying to get their next belt? A paid instructor usually knows that they are being paid by the student. The unpaid teenager often doesn’t care if you stay or go, learn or not.

9. Do they have contracts? I love this one. I have done it both ways. I have signed contracts and I have not signed them. Let me tell you, the person that does not have a contract is no professional. They usually are the worst run schools. You must absolutely know up front what is expected from you, the student, and what you can expect from the school. How many times have you heard “get it in writing”? Well do it. The only reason not to sign a contract is the length of time you are committing to. Remember, they are committing to you as well. Contracts are not one sided. If you are not going to be in the area for the term of the contract, don’t sign it. All my agreements have a clause allowing you out if you get sick or move. One last thing, would you buy a house, rent an apartment, purchase a car, or sell a house without some sort of contract? I think not. So don’t fall for “we don’t have contracts here”. A month to month club is just that, a month to month club. It takes two to commit. If the school is willing to commit, so should the student.

There are many other things to be aware of, but I feel these are the most critical. If you have any questions about a school in your area or want some advice, feel free to email me at the contact address below. I will be happy to help you make the right decision.

Mr. 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. He can be reached at martialadvice@hotmail.com or at the Academy of Kempo Martial Arts. 800-508-6141

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Taekwondo: A Mixture of Many Martial Arts Styles

Taekwondo as the most popular of Korean art forms is the only other Asian martial arts that found its place in international sports (besides Judo). Taekwondo calls itself the way of kicks and punches. “Tae” means to kick or destroy with the foot, “kwon” means to strike with the hand, chiefly the fist and “Do” means the way. Taekwondo develops strength, speed, balance and stamina. But it emphasizes on the development of five qualities in the practitioner: courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit. The art form is therefore a mental discipline as well and one that leads to heightened awareness, focus and concentration.

Basically founded on Karate, Taekwondo is more than just kicking and punching - it’s a combination of offensive as well as defensive techniques, philosophy and, as with most martial arts in their present form, entertainment as well.

To comprehend how Taekwondo came to be, one must analyze Korean history. As early as 668 AD, Chinese Chuan Fa techniques were used to prepare Korean warriors for combat. These techniques evolved through time into the empty-hand art of Subak. Thiart form split into the Taekyon (striking art) and the Yusul (a grappling art).

Yusul vanished while Taekyon remained, thanks to the secret practice of certain Korean families and street gangs. When the Japanese took over Korea, Karate that is originally by the Japanese was absorbed into the martia art forms of Taekyon along with influences from Manchuria and China.

Even when Korea was liberated in 1945, the art form called Taekwondo did not exist. In fact General Choi Hong Hi who is considered to be the father of modern Taekwondo taught a combination of Karate and Taekyon to his soldiers. In 1955, when the government called for a single name that could unify these disparate art forms, General Choi’s submission Taekwondo, which incorporated several native Korean styles into a linear form, won the day.

There are several types of Taekwondo styles, each different in their doctrine and technical construct. Yet, all styles have a common emphasis: that on kicks thrown from a distance, using the leg’s greater reach and power. This disables the opponent from a distance. The other techniques used are jumps, spins, skips and side-kicks. They are used alone or in combination with other moves. Taekwondo also includes a comprehensive system of hand strikes and blocks, but generally does not emphasize grappling.

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

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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.

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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.

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Beating Stress with Martial Arts

Are you a busy executive or mom trying to do everything? Are you getting so stressed out that it seems like you’re not accomplishing anything? If so, you can use martial arts to combat that stress! Many of the skills and techniques used in martial arts training are the same skills and techniques you can use to rid your body of stress.

So, you might be wondering how a skill that is commonly depicted as a fighting tool can actually reduce stress… Some of these common images of martial arts aren’t completely accurate. The cartoons, video games and movies showing martial arts as a fighting tool are only showing you one small facet of the art. The skills necessary for training martial arts can teach you how to balance your mind and body and give you the confidence you need to face the stressful events in your life.

HOW DO YOU DO IT?

One of the techniques used to create this balance is using breathing and meditation techniques to help you connect and control your mind and body. There are different types of meditation: sitting, standing, kneeling and moving. Find the position that works best for you. Here’s how to start.

1. Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth.

2. Breathe deeply. To make sure you’re breathing deeply enough, put your hand on your stomach. If your stomach isn’t pushing out as you breath in, you’re not breathing deeply enough. Try to pull the air all the way to your navel before you let it out.

3. When you breathe out, keep your tongue on the roof of your mouth. This keeps helps minimize your saliva and swallowing.

In the Chinese way of thinking, breathing like this is completing a path: The mouth is a gate and the tongue on the roof of the mouth allows your vital energy called “Qi” or “Chi” (both pronounced “chee”) to circulate throughout your body. Chi is what helps your mind and body connect.

After you’ve gotten the physical aspects of breathing down, you can start counting your breaths - this is a form of meditation that many experts teach during stress management courses. Start short and work your way up.

1. Begin with a count of 4 as you breathe in and a count of 6 as you breathe out.

2. As you go along, extend the in and out until you can get a count of 6 as you breathe in and up to 24-30 as you breathe out. Just remember that you want a short, deep breath in and a slow, long breath out.

WHY DOES IT WORK?

This mind and body connection through breathing works because stress is a mental state that manifests itself as a physical symptom in your body. This physical symptom then acts as a trigger to tell you to do something about it. As you become more aware of your body, you’ll be able to notice the “trigger” before it becomes something unbearable such as a severe neck problem or a migraine headache. Once you notice your trigger, you can stop and do something about it such as practicing a breathing technique. For example, I used to get stress-induced migraines that would leave me out of commission for a whole day. Now, I’ve come to realize that it actually starts in my lower back as a small thing. If I let it go, it works its way up to my head. Now, when I noticed this trigger in my back, I stop and do my breathing. It allows the issue to surface so I can deal with it and I don’t have to deal with a migraine.

We all have those moments from time to time when we experience stress (some more frequently than others). The overall benefits of training martial arts for the mind and body (including self-awareness, self confidence, focus, concentration and physical conditioning) all lead to reducing that stress. You owe it to yourself to start relieving the stress in your life with the skills taught through martial arts. 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.

Sincerely,
Robert Jones
Master Instructor
The Academy of Kempo Martial Arts

P.S. My 3 studios are located in Lynnwood, Kent, and Bellevue, Washington. If you live near one of those locations, please contact me.

Martialadvice@hotmail.com
www.martialarts-instruction.com

About the Author

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.

Popularity: unranked [?]

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MARTIAL ARTS - 5 Ways Too Build Your Self-Confidence

If you appreciate a strong, healthy self confidence that carries you through overwhelming times and drives you to achieving your most far reaching goals, martial arts is for you.

A person’s self-confidence is like a muscle, it needs to be exercised in order to grow and develop. In the 20 plus years that I’ve been teaching Martial Arts in our community we have developed a 5 step approach to building self-confidence. These 5 steps can be learned by anyone - with the right guidance:

1. Correct Body Posture. The importance of the correct body posture is paramount. We all send hidden, sub-conscious messages with our body language and the way we carry ourselves. Carry yourself with pride, confidence and security. Carry yourself like a successful person and your confidence will show.

2. Proper Eye Contact. Making proper eye contact when speaking to others has a huge effect on the conversation. Have you ever been talking to somebody and instantly felt connected? Like you’ve known this person forever? Chances are, they understand the importance of body language, and proper eye-contact.

3. Goal Setting. Goal setting is talked about by everybody, and most people understand the importance of this process. Then why do most people miss their mark? Because they don’t have the discipline and confidence to see the goal through. Our process teaches you the right way to set goals and actually achieve them!

4. Communication. Inspiring those around you is critical to getting what you want. Whether they are your children, co-workers, employees or boss, good leaders are inspirational. We teach this inspirational formula.

5. Mentors. All of the skills above, a healthy body and mind combined with a good mentor or two will make all the difference in the world for your happiness and success.

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 martialadvice@hotmail.com or at the Academy of Kemp

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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.

Michael “The Count” Bisping Leads The UK Charge Against The Viking Invasion At Cagewarriors Strike Force 3
Cagewarriors Light-Heavyweight Champion Michael Bisping defends his Title Against Jakob “Striking Viking” Lovstad in Mixed Martial Arts/Ultimate Fighting action at the Skydome Arena, Coventry on October 1st

The Fame of Martial Arts Films and Film Stars

Anybody would love a Martial Arts ‘Wapaakk!’ film for a weekend entertainment. Originating from the Pacific, these martial arts films
have become so world-famous they attained their cult status when they moved to Hollywood. Film directors re-created the films with
a smarter and cooler presentation of martial arts moves and counter moves. In the process, they produced a new generation of martial arts films and film stars.

To this day, The number of Western martial arts artists are getting plenty. They have made it as celebrities heralded for their martial
abilities on and off screens - thousands has become loyal followers starting from the great legends Chuck Norris, Wesley Snipes, Jean
Claude Van Damme and GJ Torres.

However, those from the East also share a horde of fans. If you want to know Who’s Who in the world of Martial Arts, read on and
surely you’d recognize the names that often made you dream of becoming a super fighter!

Kwan Tak-Hing
He was the original screen Wong Fei-Hung; the legendary Hung Gar master who starred in
100 films from the late 1940s to the 1960s. Kwan himself was a master of Tibetan White Crane rather than Hung Gar and specialized
in the use of the whip.

Bruce Lee
He is what every boy wanted to grow up to be in the seventies. And Bruce Lee is the person who
made Hollywood sit up. Trained originally in Wing Chun, Bruce Lee made cult films like ‘Enter the Dragon’ and ‘Return of the
Dragon’.

Jackie Chan
The Bruce Lee of the eighties and the nineties, without the former’s intensity. Jackie Chan
evolved a unique genre that combined slapstick comedy with martial arts. He has directed and acted in more than 50 films and has a
very distinct following across the world. Despite intensive training from a Chinese Opera school, Jackie claims to be an actor and not
a martial arts artist.

Jet Li
Another Hollywood favorite, won the Chinese national Wushu (Martial Arts) championships five times
in a row before becoming a movie star, starting with the movie ‘Shaolin Temple’.

Hollywood also has Caucasians who have trained in martial arts and then become movie stars. Chuck Norris learned Tang Soo Do, a
martial arts similar to Taekwondo, while in Korea. He was also Bruce Lee’s training partner. Steven Seagal is an aikido instructor; Jean
Claude van Damme practiced karate in Europe; Cynthia Rothrock is probably the best known woman in the genre and considered to
be the Queen of martial arts films. She was taught by GJ Torres.

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

The Cagewarriors Fighting Championships Make A Successful Return To Coventry With Strike Force 2
Michael “The Count” Bisping goes to 8-0 with another KO win, whilst the 170kg Zuluzinho is triumphant as the Wolfslair Academy has another successful UK MMA outing.

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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.

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

Facts about Martial Arts for Kids - Part 4

“How important is age?”

In a nutshell, age is extremely important. A child who cannot handle being in kindergarten, or pre-school, will not be able to concentrate in a martial arts class. Before five years of age, any child who can focus in a martial arts class is exceptional.

We have successfully trained a few children who were, or are, four years of age. I don’t want to turn away the next Bruce Lee or Mozart, when he or she comes along, but there are a few factors to consider when a child is very young.

1. Can he or she let go of a parent’s hand and work independently, in a classroom setting? This is very important, unless you can find a martial arts teacher that will teach parent and child, together, in the same classroom.

2. What are your true goals? When a parent has a lot of patience, it is much easier to accomplish realistic goals of focusing in a classroom, improved motor skills, and enhanced athletic abilities. However, instant success and precision performance are not likely. In many cases, young karate students tend to “shine” around seven years of age or older, so why put your child under pressure?

3. How much of a distraction is a young child going to be in a karate class? If your child is used to being the center of attention, this won’t work in a martial arts class. Time is shared with other students, and the objective is to learn everything in the daily lesson plan. This cannot be accomplished if a child is screaming for attention.

Within our Karate studio, in North Providence, we have a no pressure screening process for young children, as a measure, to see if joining our kids Karate classes will be a good relationship for the parents, child, and the Karate studio. This is why we have a free 30-day trial membership, with no obligations on either side.

As a parent, you want your child to get the optimum martial arts experience every time they train. This can only happen if the martial arts school establishes clear guidelines for conduct and if all the children participating are “team players.”

Otherwise, parents do not get their money’s worth and children waste time in a Karate class, while the child who gets the most attention is a discipline problem.

Within a child’s mind, being responsible for his or her actions is a matter of developing awareness, and everything is a new experience. As adults, we know that this knowledge comes with age, but each individual child grows at a different rate. Children are not “little adults,” and we cannot place adult expectations upon them.

If you put children into extremely high-pressure
situations, they will not continue to enjoy the activity. Whether it is martial arts, academic school, or little league baseball, it is healthy for parents and children to have goals, but we all have to learn to accept life’s little setbacks without worry.

? 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

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How to increase your Martial Arts Weapons Skills Almost overnight!
How to gain more in the next 6 months in Martial Arts than you have in the prior 5 years! Learning Martial Arts is a lifelong process. That statement is certainly true but in the last 6 months I have learned more than in the prior 23 years about the inside secrets to real Martial Arts Training Success. It took learning real training methods from an incredible Grandmaster and true Martial Arts Legend to help me leapfrog my technique to a much hirer level almost overnight. You see I used to train about 1-2 hours a day in my teenage years, and I had a very good instructor. However; even at the 1st Dan Black Belt level he would not share much of the behind the scenes training secrets that there are in Martial Arts. Since those early days I have trained with some of the best in the World, and I have gained a lot personally from everyone. However; in the last six months I have experience powerful gains in a key area of my Martial Arts Training and that is in Weapons Training. Yes ever since I joined the Martial Arts Weapons Association and started learning the methods that Grandmaster Ted Gambordella teaches, I have made huge gains in weapons knowledge and skills. I have nearly mastered 5 weapons in only 6 months and that is just launching from a basic knowledge level. Sure I knew my Katas and my basic weapon work, but now I understand the inside mechanics of my weapon Kata and the overall advantages of one weapon over another. Here I am in my 30s and I am now finally getting it, and thats after a 3rd Dan in one style and a 1st Dan in another. I am lucky that my basics were as solid as they where because considering that I trained in traditional schools and Dojos over the years. If you too want to make massive gains in your Martial Arts Weapons training I strongly recommend the Martial Arts Weapons Association. It is the lowest cost way to learn from a legend and get an entire library worth of books and videos. In fact Grandmaster Gambordella has reduced the cost to only $35 so anyone at any level in the Martial Arts Sport can afford to get the best training and information. The secret to proper training is studied and practicing a real method. Katas are fine but they will never take you to the highest levels. You can be great at a Kata (as I was) but still be bad with your weapon. So you simply have to learn the right way from the right instructor. This is your opportunity to learn from a legend and for next to nothing.

Lee Warrick is a seasoned Martial Artist and instructor and is working with Grandmaster Gambordella on www.themartialartssite.com/MAWA.html

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

Keys Of Hung Gar Kung Fu Mastering
1. While polishing your technique you should never stick out your chest or stomach either when fighting or practicing. It stiffens your body and makes your movements awkward. As a result, you are losing control over your body. While practicing always make sure to keep your back bent outward and chest incurved. This is the right sign to distinguish between Kung Fu masters and Kung Fu athletes.

2. Despite the fact that the back should be a bit bent outward, you have to maintain the body centrality; by no means should the body be bent too much. Otherwise it will lose the balance, which can result in loss of equilibrium and steadiness, and make the outgoing energy weak. The back and pelvis must be in the same plane.

3. Bending your head down in fight is like blindfolding yourself, since with your head down you cannot fully control all the actions of your enemy. Moreover, it can lead you to losing the balance.

4. During the fight, your waist should be down. If it is not, it makes Qi to go upward and accumulate in the chest. This accumulation of Qi in the chest causes you to lose the steadiness; your movements will immediately become clumsy and awkward. A man with his Qi in lower Dan Tian can be compared to a weeble wobble, since it is virtually impossible to throw him down on the ground. Now, consider moving the load in the lower part of the weeble wobble upward; the slightest push would overturn the weeble wobble.

5. The hand is rounded in elbow and wrist.

6. Practicing, always make sure to perform movements correctly. Otherwise, you would get bad habits, which is rather harmful than advantageous. Mastering new techniques, you should always act without haste; only when you have repeated movements correctly many times, you can consider increasing speed and strength.

7. It is not good performing already learnt techniques with negligence, so-so, since it is hardly of any use. Performing already mastered techniques you need to fully use your consciousness, i.e., using consciousness (Yi) send your energy Qi to the section of the body engaged in this technique. For example, kicking with your heel the moment the heel touches the enemy (target) you need to fully focus on throwing the energy through the heel.

8. Inside yourself, you should work out your mind, spirit, consciousness and Qi until they join together. Only when this happens you will be able to send your Qi anywhere at your wish.

9. The key to mastering is in everyday work at the thing neither master not disciple can do without, namely polishing the basic technique.

Alexander Popov dedicated about 20 years to Shaolin Hung Gar Kung Fu. He is the successor of Hung Gar Kung Fu tradition in the 8th masters? generation. Kung Fu and Qigong articles and ebooks:
<a href="http://www.shaolin-kungfu-qigong.com" title="http://www.shaolin-kungfu-qigong.com" target="_blank">http://www.shaolin-kungfu-qigong.com</a>

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.

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Do You Really Want to be a Black Belt - Or Just Faking It?
Let’s say that you’re a BJJ Instructor and you have two students that show up to join your school on the same day. You talk to both of these prospective students to find out their backgrounds and this is what you learned about both of them…

Over 45? Why Choose Martial Arts?
Age should not be an impediment to beginning a long and rewarding journey into the fascinating world of martial arts. Martial arts is a fantastic alternative to those bikes and treadmills that don’t go anywhere, but you will soon come to realize that martial arts is more than physical fitness; it is a lifestyle.

Ray Mercer vs. Kimbo Slice - Both Fighters Make Their MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) Debut
Kimbo Slice makes his long awaited Mixed Martial Arts debut this weekend against formers World Heavyweight Boxing Champion “Merciless” Ray Mercer.

Moms and Martial Arts: The Best Thing They Can Do For Themselves and Their Families

Do you ever feel like there isn’t enough time in the day to take care of all the things you “need” to do? If so, how can you possibly fit in all the things you “want” to do? Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to take a yoga class to help you relax and to have a personal trainer to help you tone up? Don’t forget that you probably also should join a gym so that you can get your aerobic exercise as well. Add it all up and you’d probably pay out close to a thousand dollars a month just for all the classes not to mention the hours per week you’d have to put in to get maximum benefits from all of these activities. On top of all that, you probably would love an opportunity to meet other people and socialize without the kids once and a while. Who needs this scheduling headache? Certainly not you! It really does sound impossible, doesn’t it? Well, it’s not. Try martial arts: you’ll pay for one class, and get all the above benefits plus more for just a few hours per week.

Whether you’re a new or seasoned mom, training martial arts is the perfect activity. You’ll relieve stress, gain confidence, improve your physical conditioning, and learn how to defend yourself and your family. Here’s why it works:

Stress Relief: If you have kids, you probably have stress. You also probably already know that physical exercise can reduce your stress. What you probably don’t know is that physical activity only reduces one part of stress - its physical effects. Martial arts go a step further and work to decrease not only your physical stress, but also your emotional stress. Since most exercise activities allow you to zone out and not concentrate on what you are doing, you’re not allowing your mind to de-stress as much as it could. Activities that require you to concentrate on your movements and core strength give you full stress relief in one activity.

Confidence: You probably know as much as you possibly can about your kids from their clothing and shoe sizes to their exact height and weight. You can even recall exact details of their birth, every birthday and every milestone in between. What you probably don’t have is the self-awareness created by training martial arts. In order to successfully train martial arts, you need to get and keep your mind and body in tune with one another. This helps you become very aware of your body and your abilities. This awareness also gives you added confidence to control and defend yourself. What’s great for you as a mom is that you will be able to be calm and collected when your children challenge you because you’ll have the confidence to handle the situation without losing your temper.

Physical Conditioning: When you train martial arts, you use your entire body - it’s impossible to just use one muscle set at a time. You don’t have to plan workouts to alternate between upper and lower body conditioning. You will get the maximum out of each training session because the exercises are always changing. Even better, regular physical activity will increase your energy to allow you to play with your kids. It also reduces your chances of suffering from heart disease, diabetes and obesity so that you’ll be around for your children for a long, long time.

Self Defense: Finally, you won’t be training for combat and fighting in martial arts, but you will have the ability to do so if you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to defend yourself or your children. This self-defense isn’t always physical, either. The focus, concentration, awareness and confidence you’ll gain from training martial arts will give you the skills you need to handle most situations whether you feel like your child is being treated unfairly by a teacher or disagree with some of the school board members.

Best of all, you won’t get bored with martial arts because the only way to be successful in martial arts is to constantly change your exercise. It’s better than following an exercise video three times a week or jogging on the treadmill as you mindlessly watch television. Plus, you’ll often have to use different muscle groups to master new moves, so you’re mind is always working while you exercise.

Martial arts can give you everything you need to be a great mom and a great person. Why not give it a try today?!

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.

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

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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.

DECISIVENESS: - Single-Minded Commitment to Greatness - The Keys to Martial Arts Life Mastery #3

I remember talking to one of my teachers once about the traits of a master leader. And though we discussed many topics, traits and themes - attitudinal qualities like “caring,” “trust,” “being a role model;” and skills like “management,” “study,” etc. - ‘the’ trait that lay at the center, or formed the foundation for all of these others was: Decisiveness - the simple ability to make a decision.

Though all of the other traits were and are important in the overall character of a leader, at the heart it all lay the willingness and, yes, “decision,” to be or do those other things.

For example, we cannot and generally will not “care” about something until we ‘decide’ to care about it. Carrying this to it’s fullest, we will not be a “caring” person until we decide to be. This is true for everything.

It’s funny, you know. I’ve been an avid student of human nature for a long time now. I’ve studied how we human beings latch onto ideas, beliefs, and concepts, and run with them. The one thing that most people do not do, however, is to check the integrity of their ideas with one another. Do you know what I mean? Most of us never stop to see whether or not our “beliefs” and habitual patterns “jive” with each other.

More often than not, under close examination, things tend to break down. One belief is not congruent - it contradicts - another belief about the same “type” of thing but from a different perspective.

Here’s an example. Staff and I are constantly joking about how many people come to WCI because they are interested in taking up martial arts. How do we know this? Not necessarily because they’ve told us (lots of people tell us they’re interested - especially after you mention that you’re studying the martial arts, right?! We know because they have actually picked up the phone or stopped into the academy for information.

But, once here, we notice that their demeanor - their actions and responses, mirror those that come up for many when their approached by a salesperson at a store.

Isn’t that funny? These folks are interested in taking up martial arts but…

.. They’re afraid we’re going to “sell” them martial arts lessons!

This happens all the time. To each and every one of us. It may not be about sales, or martial arts, but it happens nonetheless.

What does this have to do with martial arts, a black belt, mastery, or warriorship? Thanks for asking. Otherwise, this article is going nowhere!

The ability to make a decision is at the heart of all of this confusion. It is also at the heart of success and mastery. It is the very thing theta defines a leader.

You see, life - every single moment - is made up of choices. And, as the author Richard Bach cited in his book ‘Illusions,’ “we design our lives through the power of our choices.” And, it is our decisions, or lack of, that define us in the eyes of others. In fact, it could be said, and has been by the great H. A. Hopf, that we teach others how to act in regards to decisiveness. We teach our children, our students, even those who are thinking about associating with us, who we are and how we engage life and that, if they are to be “like” us, they should make decisions like we do.

There are really three types of decisions to make in any given situation, whether it’s goal-setting, planning, or problem-solving. They are:

1) Do It! You decide in favor of an action.

2) Don’t Do It! You decide against the action.

3) Don’t Decide! You avoid making a choice or decision altogether.

Yes, choosing to “not” make a decision IS a decision - a choice! Because what you’re really saying is either:

1) I don’t care one way or the other which way this goes or what we do. In this case, there would not be complaining afterwards of the decision(s) made by others (if you were being honest).

2) I’m afraid to commit to something because I’m afraid of failure, success, or a hundred other things. So what if your decision proves to be wrong or simply a bad choice; make another one! After all, THAT’S what leaders do!

3) I don’t want to have to think about this right now so I’ll postpone the decision.

This last one is what most people do with regards to their goals - including going to Japan. Why else would they put off going for three years? Money? I think not. And, why not? Because everyone that has told me they were going to Japan, for example, last year, has no more money saved for the trip than they did when they first supposedly set the goal.

I remember when my teachers first started forcing me to stand up and make decisions. It was uncomfortable in many cases, and terrifying in others. But, developing this powerful ability has literally changed my life. And, it will yours as well.

Imagine: actually attaching people to you that are more helpful to you and your on life BECAUSE you are decisive. Why? Because decisive people are Confident, Trusting and Trustworthy, the take risks (another important key to success and mastery), and they make people feel comfortable and Safe.

Your ability to make confident decisions, even in the face of little support or help from others, will set you apart from everyone else who has “decided” on a mediocre, passive, and everyday existence. You will be in great company though because you will have elevated yourself to the level of the Abraham Lincolns, the Walt Disneys, the Madame Currys, and so many others that made their own path in life - decisively, confidently…

..one choice at a time!

Brand New Mini Stun Gun Offers Powerful Punch
Everybody I am sure has watched Cops before and seen those videos of out-of-control ?bad guys? and seen them get shocked or tased by either a stun gun or a taser. Or, for any 24 fans out there we all say Jack shock President Logan in an attempt to subdue him and get him off of the helicopter. Well, the problem with most stun guns today is that although they are pretty small, you may want them just a little bit smaller. Maybe something just a little easier to carry around with you is all you would want. That time has come. The new kid in town is here. Introducing The Runt Stun Gun.

Everyone has seen the Stun Master?s and what they look like. The new Runt Stun Gun is easily concealable and it will fit virtually undetectable in the hand of a woman or a man. This allows your attacker to approach with no fear. The element of surprise is the key here. Your attacker will drop to his knees and will never see it coming.

The reason for this sudden surprise and drop comes from the technology that The Runt possesses. It uses new cutting edge micro-technology that allows it to deliver unprecedented power from a palm sized weapon. It contains three voltage levels so you can choose how much you need to use. I would recommend choosing the level based on your own size and how much more power you would need to subdue a man two or three times your size.

The Runt is perfect for all women or men of all sizes and is available in 350k, 650k, and 950k volts. This selection of voltage will allow people to get the kind of voltage they are looking for. At 950k volts, this is hands down one of the most powerful stun guns on the market today.

Adam Walls is the owner of 919 Security, an online self defense products store that also specializes in home and personal safety, child safety, hidden cameras and much, much more.
<a href="http://www.919security.com/runtstungun.htm" title="http://www.919security.com/runtstungun.htm" target="_blank">http://www.919security.com/runtstungun.htm</a>
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Hollywood Star Joe Piscopo headed to the Atlantic City Tropicana Casino in Jnauary
Joe Piscopo is set for the Mega Martial Arts Expo that will be taking place at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City NJ

Women’s Title Fight Added To Cagewarriors Quest Volume 3 Card On September 17th
Defending Cagewarrors Women’s Champion Rosi Sexton makes her return to Mixed Martial Arts action against the rising Welsh star Sabrina Cohen at Cagewarriors Quest Volume 3 in the Octagon Centre, Sheffield on September 17th.

2 of Europes Top Welterweights to fight on Cage Carnage.
Paris,October 8 2004, The only two men to ever beat CageWarriors Champion Abdul Mohamed in MMA will meet on November 14th on Paul Cahoons Cage Carnage in Liverpool.

Ninjutsu Martial Arts Training - Don’t Depend on Weapons for Self-Defense

This is based on something that I wrote in my “KUBOTAN: Self-Defense Keychain” ebook. And, although the discussion was aimed at the weapon that served as the focus of the book, in actuality, any weapon, modern or traditional, can be substituted.

Now, please don’t confuse what I’m about to say with whether or not I use weapons. Weapons should be a part of any sound self-defense and martial arts program, training, and strategy. However, far too many people rely on a quick-fix. The Self-Defense Keychain book, in fact none of my books or videos were created to be a comprehensive training course in the use of any particular weapon. No single resource can be.

This is so for two very important reasons…

1. No weapon can take the place of a sound self-defense training program and plan - no matter how powerful you think it is, and…

2. Most weapons, especially those like the Kubotan, were designed to augment, or provide additional power and effectiveness, to unarmed self-defense techniques and tactics.

Do you have to be a trained martial artist to defend yourself with this or any other weapon?

No. Of course not.

Firearms are a good case-in-point. Knives are another. These two in particular have the potential of creating serious damage with relatively little to no formal training. But, remember…

…there is a huge difference between an effective self-defense strategy based on “knowing” what to do to increase your ability to escape with the least amount of wear-and-tear, and…

…the dependence on luck or the fact that you’re carrying a self-defense weapon.

In the case of firearms, people brag and tout how many rounds the weapon can fire before reloading, but…

…you can’t MISS often enough to win!

You can simply pick up a knife and start slashing and probably do okay. However…

…there are times during the year, at least in the temperate region where I live, that the clothing being worn by an attacker can make it difficult to cut him - even with a large knife. And…

…as we say in the self-defense world - “you can’t bring a knife to a gun fight and expect to win!

The choice is yours…

…luck or strategic application of trained skills.

Both can be effective. However,…

…which one do you want to “bet your life on?”

And, in the long run…

…your weapon, regardless of whether it’s a handgun, knife, or even a simple weapon like the Kubotan…

…is only as good as YOU are!

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 [?]

Strengthen your mind and body by practicing a martial art
Martial arts are basically a set of physical and mental skills that are gradually taught, developed and polished by a trainer usually called sensei for Japanese arts and sifu in Cantonese. Martial arts translate as the arts of war, and they consist of a multitude of weaponless combat techniques, focused primarily on self defense. Based on ancient wisdom and philosophy, martial arts not only strengthen the body of the adept, but they also fortify his mind and his spirit. In Eastern culture, self control, discipline, patience, awareness, are considered to be the traits of a true warrior, and martial arts mainly focus on developing these skills to practicing students. In ancient times, martial arts were kept secret and practiced in silence; being an apprentice in these skills was a great privilege. However, today there are various schools that perpetuate the traditional teachings of the great ancient masters. Martial arts are divided into many different styles, linked together by the omnipresent oriental mentality. If you wish to begin practicing a martial art, you should choose a style that best satisfies your needs and potential. Some martial arts focus more on physical strength, while others focus on technique and reflex. The best thing to do before choosing the appropriate style is assisting to a few training classes and asking the trainer whether you fit in or not. Another important aspect you should consider is that martial arts require a lot of ambition, dedication, perseverance and practice. You should keep in mind that the skills are learned gradually, and it takes time to achieve higher ranks. When you have discovered the style that fits you best, make sure that your trainer is qualified and that he teaches in an approachable manner. Regardless of experience or rank, not all martial arts masters have the ability to teach! You should look for an instructor that stands as a true raw model, a person whose teachings match his ideals and beliefs. Having found the right instructor and training gym, all you need is equipment. Martial arts equipment is sometimes optional and it mainly consists of a uniform or sparring and protective equipment such as boxing gloves, head gear and chest protection. You can either buy these traditional uniforms, or make them yourself. Consult your instructor and find out his requirements regarding the appropriate training outfit. The martial art equipment also includes a belt. It is made of a certain textile material and its purpose is to distinguish the ranks of the students. The black belt marks the highest level of experience and it can be obtained through years of learning and practice. Whether you choose to practice martial arts as a sport or for self defense, its benefits are substantial. Martial arts improve your physical condition, as well as your concentration, attention and ambition. They strengthen the mind and body altogether and help you achieve self-respect, confidence and balance.

For great martial arts equipment just visit our site http://www.bambamboo.com .After years of our own training in various martial arts, we know what a product needs to make it good, reliable, and durable. Visit http://www.bambamboo.com for great martial arts equipment Toronto .

Develop your Kiai - To Win More Battles
KIAI

Hector, one of the heroes of the Trojan war, had such a fearsome war-cry it would drive whole armies back, Medieval Irish warriors were known to instill fear in even the toughest most disciplined English troops. The druids used a low-droning sound to un-nerve the Roman legions in the battle field, and G.I.’s returning from the pacific after world war 2 tell of a paralyzing Batlle-cry that the Japanese used during bayonet charges.

Oriental B.S.? Martial-arts fantasy or just proper psychology and physics applied at the right moment?
In one form or another, The Kiai or spirit shout has been touted to be an effective psychological weapon in the battle field or in one-on-one combat. Whether you are a believer in this or not, the Kiai, when executed properly is supposed to achieve the following:

1. Rally the troops. The Kiai is supposed to instill courage and ferocity in a full-frontal assault.Projected into an opponent, the kiai can paralyze the mind momentarily

2. a sudden un expected shriek causes the mind to look for the origins of the sound- thereby distracting him/her for a moment thus creating an opening

3. the Kiai is a spontaneous expression of individual courage and ferocity, in essence the kiai should ( or is supposed to ) psych you up.

4. Conversely - when the opponent is expecting a Kiai and it is not delivered - the effect is the same - the mind is expecting the battle-cry and is occupied with the expectation - thus distracting the opponent again.

As an ancient flowery Japanese text commands your kiai should fill your lungs and explode from your hara , it should reverberate like a thousand samurai storming into battle

Franz von Muhlfeld

For More Martial Arts Secrets Visit This Site

Travel Industry Veteran Of 40 years - has visited 127 countries and counting…

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.

Facts about Martial Arts for Kids - Part 5

“Will my child become more violent from learning karate, jujitsu, or another martial art?”

In a word, “No.” Children learn self-control by practicing martial arts; and the code of conduct that is enforced, within the studio, is carried outside into every day life. The average martial arts school works with parents, and academic teachers, toward the goal of optimum student success.

When you see a Karate demonstration team perform, that is not an indicator of the life skills taught within the Karate class. It is the “flashiest” component of Karate training, presented to capture the public attention. Ten minutes of kids using ancient weapons, breaking, and working in synchronized choreography, is more interesting to the public, than a lecture, by me, about dealing with bullies without violence.

However, let’s take a closer look at the ten minutes of flash. The next time you see a martial arts demonstration team, remember those children have to practice those techniques over and over again. This requires self-discipline, goal setting, perseverance, and each child being a team player.

There is no room for a “one way” personality on any martial arts demonstration team. Such a personality would work against a good public performance. In a typical Karate class, all of the above-mentioned life skills are learned and much more.

Children learn much more about violence on the television, playing with video games, and dealing with daily life, than they will ever learn in a karate class. Even if a Karate teacher was the classic “evil sensei,” that you may have seen in the Karate Kid movie or on Kung Fu Theatre, most children can think of far worse violence.

All you have to do is watch the news, cartoons, listen to the radio, or read a newspaper, to see things worse than unsupervised hand-to-hand combat. So, the self-defense methods taught to children actually pale in comparison to school shootings, bombings, wars, and drive-by shootings.

Karate was created by unarmed civilians on the island of Okinawa and was taught in secret among family members for their personal protection. The philosophy, within a martial arts school, will not always be the same, but the seeds of violence are not sown within a martial arts setting.

All you have to do is look around you to see more, and far worse, violence than learning self-defense - integrated with constructive life skills. The fact is a martial artist is not a “street fighter.” If that were a requirement, we would recruit the toughest kids in North Providence.

As I explain to the children in my Karate and Jujitsu
classes, “Never forget the word, “artist,” means to be
creative, to be an innovator, and to think for yourself.” Children who learn martial arts are more apt to be well adjusted and defuse a potentially violent situation.

On top of that, most children who study Karate, or any other martial art, will not be “trouble makers.” The children we teach from the Greater Providence, Rhode Island area have learned enough about leadership, in our Karate and Jujitsu classes, to think for themselves. For parents, the gift of martial arts training to their children has many rewards, right now, and into their future.

? 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

Popularity: unranked [?]

Important Tips for Beginners in Jiu Jitsu
Jiujitsu Tips for Beginners from a leading fighter training under Roger Gracie.

Kickboxing Training Drills To Improve Your Timing In Competitions
It is important to learn how to read the timing of an opponent and throw your kicks at the best moments. Using a punching bag does not help you learn to kick at the right moment, but using a human partner does. Your partner should move like he would in…

Before You Use Your Jump Rope
The jump rope, one of the most seductive tools of boxing. I remember watching the first Rocky movie seeing Sylvester Stallone twirling the rope so fast that you couldn’t even see it, and thinking “Man that is awesome”.

His style and grace were perfect but there was one thing that Rocky had all wrong.

Martial Arts History Museum included in the Cars 4 Causes Program

LOS ANGELES, CA, (NAMC) - The Martial Arts History Museum, a non-profit educational organization, has recently announced its inclusion in the Cars 4 Causes Charitable Program.

Cars 4 Causes is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization that was founded in 1997 that helps charities raise funds by providing a method in which cars, boats and other transportation vehicles can be donated to benefit other charities. It is considered as “The Charity That Gives to Charities.”

“Because of so much demand on our finances, many people find it difficult to write out a check to donate to the Museum or other charities. This is fact of life, however, many people have big items that they can’t sell or would like a large tax-deduction. Cars 4 Causes makes the donation process easy,” notes Museum president Michael Matsuda. “You can either drop off your vehicle or contact Cars 4 Causes, and if accepted, they will come to your place of residence and tow your vehicle without any cost to you.”

Cars 4 Causes has raised millions of dollars for other charities all across the country. “Car donations and other automobile donations allow you to help your community. Non-profit organizations are in constant need of additional funds, and you can help with your car donations. Automobile donations allow you to donate cars even when they are not drivable,” notes Cars 4 Causes.

“The Martial Arts History Museum is something that will affect not only the martial arts community, but the entire Asian-American community as well. The museum is already a benefit to the community by hosting blood drives, movie nights, expos, cultural classes, workshops and more. By donating your vehicle to Cars 4 Causes and designating your donation to the Martial Arts History Museum, you will help us move closer to moving into our permanent facility,” says the Museum President.

For vehicle donation or information:

www.Cars4Causes.com

call 1-800-766-CARE.

Information about the Martial Arts History Museum can be found at: www.MartialArtsHistoryMuseum.com or calling 818 355-1109.

About the Author

None

Popularity: unranked [?]

DECISIVENESS: - Single-Minded Commitment to Greatness - The Keys to Martial Arts Life Mastery #5

I remember talking to one of my teachers once about the traits of a master leader. And though we discussed many topics, traits and themes - attitudinal qualities like “caring,” “trust,” “being a role model;” and skills like “management,” “study,” etc. - ‘the’ trait that lay at the center, or formed the foundation for all of these others was: Decisiveness - the simple ability to make a decision.

Though all of the other traits were and are important in the overall character of a leader, at the heart it all lay the willingness and, yes, “decision,” to be or do those other things.
For example, we cannot and generally will not “care” about something until we ‘decide’ to care about it. Carrying this to it’s fullest, we will not be a “caring” person until we decide to be. This is true for everything.

It’s funny, you know. I’ve been an avid student of human nature for a long time now. I’ve studied how we human beings latch onto ideas, beliefs, and concepts, and run with them. The one thing that most people do not do, however, is to check the integrity of their ideas with one another. Do you know what I mean? Most of us never stop to see whether or not our “beliefs” and habitual patterns “jive” with each other.

More often than not, under close examination, things tend to break down. One belief is not congruent - it contradicts - another belief about the same “type” of thing but from a different perspective.

Here’s an example. Staff and I are constantly joking about how many people come to WCI because they are interested in taking up martial arts. How do we know this? Not necessarily because they’ve told us (lots of people tell us they’re interested - especially after you mention that you’re studying the martial arts, right?! We know because they have actually picked up the phone or stopped into the academy for information.

But, once here, we notice that their demeanor - their actions and responses, mirror those that come up for many when their approached by a salesperson at a store.

Isn’t that funny? These folks are interested in taking up martial arts but…

… They’re afraid we’re going to “sell” them martial arts lessons!

This happens all the time. To each and every one of us. It may not be about sales, or martial arts, but it happens nonetheless.
What does this have to do with martial arts, a black belt, mastery, or warriorship? Thanks for asking. Otherwise, this article is going nowhere!

The ability to make a decision is at the heart of all of this confusion. It is also at the heart of success and mastery. It is the very thing theta defines a leader.

You see, life - every single moment - is made up of choices. And, as the author Richard Bach cited in his book ‘Illusions,’ “we design our lives through the power of our choices.” And, it is our decisions, or lack of, that define us in the eyes of others. In fact, it could be said, and has been by the great H. A. Hopf, that we teach others how to act in regards to decisiveness. We teach our children, our students, even those who are thinking about associating with us, who we are and how we engage life and that, if they are to be “like” us, they should make decisions like we do.

There are really three types of decisions to make in any given situation, whether it’s goal-setting, planning, or problem-solving. They are:

1) Do It! You decide in favor of an action.

2) Don’t Do It! You decide against the action.

3) Don’t Decide! You avoid making a choice or decision altogether.

Yes, choosing to “not” make a decision IS a decision - a choice! Because what you’re really saying is either:

1) I don’t care one way or the other which way this goes or what we do. In this case, there would not be complaining afterwards of the decision(s) made by others (if you were being honest).

2) I’m afraid to commit to something because I’m afraid of failure, success, or a hundred other things. So what if your decision proves to be wrong or simply a bad choice; make another one! After all, THAT’S what leaders do!

3) I don’t want to have to think about this right now so I’ll postpone the decision.

This last one is what most people do with regards to their goals - including going to Japan. Why else would they put off going for three years? Money? I think not. And, why not? Because everyone that has told me they were going to Japan, for example, last year, has no more money saved for the trip than they did when they first supposedly set the goal.

I remember when my teachers first started forcing me to stand up and make decisions. It was uncomfortable in many cases, and terrifying in others. But, developing this powerful ability has literally changed my life. And, it will yours as well.

Imagine: actually attaching people to you that are more helpful to you and your on life BECAUSE you are decisive. Why? Because decisive people are Confident, Trusting and Trustworthy, the take risks (another important key to success and mastery), and they make people feel comfortable and Safe.

Your ability to make confident decisions, even in the face of little support or help from others, will set you apart from everyone else who has “decided” on a mediocre, passive, and everyday existence. You will be in great company though because you will have elevated yourself to the level of the Abraham Lincolns, the Walt Disneys, the Madame Currys, and so many others that made their own path in life - decisively, confidently…

…one choice at a time!

About the Author

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

International Kickboxing Live From Belfast Direct Into the Living Room
This Friday, June 15, Prokick will broadcast an entire Kickboxing event live on the Internet. It's not just any event. The Italian Job II will see world champion Gary Hamilton top the bill on an eight bout card featuring some of the very best kickboxers from across Europe, with three European titles up for grabs. (PRWeb Jun 13, 2007)

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Life’s a Fight, Plan to Win New Company Launches Winning Formula
Hot new company Fighters Formula offers performance enhancing nutritional supplements to the marketplace. Products developed on a foundation of scientific research, input and knowledge from athletes have already won a loyal following. (PRWeb Jun 14, 2007)

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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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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.

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

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.

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Life’s a Fight, Plan to Win New Company Launches Winning Formula
Hot new company Fighters Formula offers performance enhancing nutritional supplements to the marketplace. Products developed on a foundation of scientific research, input and knowledge from athletes have already won a loyal following. (PRWeb Jun 14, 2007)

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New Jersey Event Marks Bodog Fight’s American Debut
Bodog Fight makes its American debut in New Jersey and brings mixed martial arts fighters Eddie Alvarez vs Matt Lee. (PRWeb May 31, 2007)

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MartialArtsPride.com Announces Strategic UFC & MMA Supplier Partnerships
MartialArtsPride.com, a CAS Enterprises, LLC Internet property, eagerly announced that it has developed strategic partnerships with several popular and well respected companies in the mixed martial arts industry. Although not all the products have been posted on the MartialArtsPride.com website, they will soon be carrying MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) products from Ouano (Official UFC Gloves), Century (Wavemasters), Tapout (Fight Shorts), Sprawl (Board Shorts), and Fairtex (Muay Thai Kickboxing Gear). (PRWeb May 24, 2007)

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True Martial Arts and the Job of a Warrior

The martial arts and the concept of self-protection is much more than mere punching and kicking, or the development of skill with a weapon. Just as a martial artist or, in the grander sense, a warrior-protector, in engaged in much more than the mere study of violence and violent methods.

This is just as so now as it has been for the past several thousand years. Regardless of the term we use to describe this person…

…knight…

…champion…

…hero, etc…

The warrior is one who understands that his job or purpose is not about killing, fighting, or dying…

…it’s about living.

The true warrior understands that, while there is a need for those who can protect themselves and others from the hatred and animosity of others, ultimately these skills are to be used to insure the harmonious continuation of the highest achievements of mankind: Love, Peace, & the successful achievement of one’s Dreams.

At Warrior Concepts International, students are required to study and reflect so that they might come to an understanding of the difference between a…

Fighter

Soldier, and a…

Warrior

How about you? What do you think, if anything, makes these three types of combatants, different?

Certainly, if we were to look up any one of theses words in a dictionary or thesaurus, it’s quite likely that we’d find one or both of the other two words in the definition.

It cannot be argued that each one fights. In fact, if we were to look only at the actions and techniques used when each is engaged in combat, it would be difficult to tell the difference between them. But…

…there is a difference.

Quite a few actually but, for now, let’s take a look at a primary, philosophical difference - the “reason” that each chooses to fight.

THE DIFFERENCE IS IN THE INTENTION AND MOTIVATION - NOT IN THE DEED

The Fighter fights for reward. There is a payoff of some kind for this individual. He or she is either seeking to attain something (fame, money, etc.), or they seek to prevent these things from being taken from them.

The Soldier fights because it is his job. Certainly, there may indeed be philosophical reasons behind his decision to fight (family, community, country), but the soldier is a minion of the State. He or she has absolutely no choice as to who the “enemy” will be or who they are protecting us from.

The Warrior, on the other hand, fights to restore Peace. He fights because there is no other choice and does so to defend something (philosophy, family, etc.) outside of himself. And, when he fights, it is with an enemy of his own choosing and never for selfish, self-serving reasons.

The warrior, though often called upon to engage in conflict using the same methods as that of mere fighters and soldiers, does so, not for the sake of conflict, but because all else has failed and he must resort to violent conflict to stop it.

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

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Free-form Sparring and Exercises to Develop Internal Energy
Take a sneak peak into the world of Hapkido. The history, traditions and technique of this ancient form of martial arts.

Martial Arts Book Review: Palgue 1-2-3 by Kim Pyung Soo
I just finished rereading “Palgue 1-2-3″ by Kim Pyung Soo for the first time in quite a few years and was reminded of the firs time I had purchased this and the other two books in the series when I was first starting out upon my martial arts journey whose primary focus in those early days was Karate and Tae Kwon Do. These books were some of the first ones I owned concerning the martial arts and kata or forms in particular.

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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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

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.

Self Defense And Psychological Preparedness
Being psychologically prepared is critical for self defense during an assault in the street. It is very important to be ready to repel the assailant (assailants) using all the means you have. Note that even being in not very good physical shape these means could be quite sufficient to disable your enemy (enemies).

For example, if you wear hard sharp-toe shoes, then kicking your enemy in groin or shank with the toe of such shoe (even if there are no years of practice behind this kick) immediately makes him writhe with pain for several moments. And this gives you enough time to either disable the enemy or simply run away.

Scratching facer using fingernails also causes pain shock to your enemy and makes him unable to resist for some time. Remembering how dangerous a furious cat can be for people is enough to understand this.

In several cases, a furious cat is known to make its owners hide in one of the rooms and wait for the police to come and help them. Police officers in this situation often have to use guns to protect themselves and rescue the owners of the animal.

Now let’s take a look at a cat, its weight is about 30 times less than that of a man. And this tiny thing can resist police officers armed with firearms. That’s one thing. The other thing is that a common schoolboy, who tortures a cat giving it a hard time, can cope with it, the cat doing nothing to protect itself.

Now you can see the difference between a man employing everything he has at hand to give furious resistance to an assault, and a man who does not resist at all or makes poor attempts to resist.

So we see, at one hand, the enraged and furiously attacking cat that a couple of armed policemen cannot restrain, and, on the other hand, a meek unresisting cat that a little boy can easily handle. The difference is very substantial. This example clearly shows that the more furious and fast you resistance, the more chances you have to win the fight.

I remember a story told me by my disciple about one weak man small in stature, who succeeded in protecting himself against a husky trained fellow with the black belt in taekwondo, who assaulted him.

This small man was so furious and fearless giving his much stronger offender a hail of blows (weak and unskilled as they were) as to shock the guy and made him only try to cover himself from the blows.

One would think what chances had this tiny, middle-aged man, who has never gone in for any sport in a fight against a young and well-trained in taekwondo school guy with the black belt. Any one would say he had no chance. However, it all turned out badly for no one, but the young insolent beggar.

Why, after all, the winner was that small man, who had no chance to win. It is very simple. The moment the fight began, he had his consciousness fully blocked; he acted automatically guided by his subconsciousness.

At the moment, he had nothing in his mind, but the enemy and the thought of disabling that enemy by any means possibly. At that moment, his consciousness was, as it were, at one with the Universe. He feared nothing since the sense of fear was gone from him.

He had neither diffidence nor other impeding factors, that’s why all his actions became TRUE ones. Even though he had not much power and skill, but all he had he putted in each blow. So that’s why, seemingly, with no chance to succeed he won the unequal fight.

Quite contrarily, his enemy was stiffened with fear and uncertainty as a result of this sudden and furious repel. Who could ever dare to attack him, as he was so strong and practiced fighter, he thought. Certainly not this small man, who, as it seemed, was supposed to be trembling with fear.

But it turned out so that it was that strong and trained beef, who had a weak spirit. At the critical moment, his will, composure and fighting skills failed him. He simply got scared and confused, and, as a result, was defeated by a weaker and less skilled opponent.

Alexander Popov is the leading expert in knife and hand-to-hand combat in the version of Spetsnaz GRU. Spetsnaz martial arts videos and ebooks: <a href="http://www.spetsnaz-gru-smersh.com" title="http://www.spetsnaz-gru-smersh.com" target="_blank">http://www.spetsnaz-gru-smersh.com</a>

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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

New Jersey Event Marks Bodog Fight’s American Debut
Bodog Fight makes its American debut in New Jersey and brings mixed martial arts fighters Eddie Alvarez vs Matt Lee. (PRWeb May 31, 2007)

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MartialArtsPride.com Announces Strategic UFC & MMA Supplier Partnerships
MartialArtsPride.com, a CAS Enterprises, LLC Internet property, eagerly announced that it has developed strategic partnerships with several popular and well respected companies in the mixed martial arts industry. Although not all the products have been posted on the MartialArtsPride.com website, they will soon be carrying MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) products from Ouano (Official UFC Gloves), Century (Wavemasters), Tapout (Fight Shorts), Sprawl (Board Shorts), and Fairtex (Muay Thai Kickboxing Gear). (PRWeb May 24, 2007)

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The Most Essential Techniques of Shaolin Kung Fu
Different forms can be used in different situations and used to react to the movements of the opponent or attacker. With so many difference stances and forms, many students find that there is a lot to remember mentally, and a lot for the muscles to have to remember as well.

An Interview with Sensei Bruce Miller Author of Secrets Of Power - The Mental Warrior
BM: I realized that the real power of martial arts was not in the physical side of the realm but instead in the ability to both train and understand the mind. But there have been so many feel good books that didn’t give the real facts that I felt it was time to give people who really wanted to know an alternative. This is especially true with Autohypnosis which is a extremely useful mental technique but most people don’t know about because there just isn’t much factual material out there that is in a format that the non PHD psychiatrist or psychologist can easily understand. Furthermore none of it is really explained in a way that is applied to the martial

arts. So I wanted to give martial artists the option of understanding and developing this tool.

The Black Belt: Ultimate Symbol of Competence In The Martial Arts

The credit of starting the culture of the black belt goes to Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo. It was in the 1880s when he began the establishment of the black belt as a symbol of the highest level of competence.

It is said that the martial artists of the earliest times began their training wearing a white belt. Through time, their belts became stained black with the mixture of sweat, dirt and blood. However, this interesting theory is contended with the strict practice of good hygiene amongst martial arts practitioners - traditional dojos were always valued as temples of learning, and no bloodied or soiled uniforms would be tolerated inside. The argument that could somehow explain both theories is that some schools encourage that the belt should not be washed because washing it would mean washing away the knowledge.

In Japanese art forms, the black belt has subdivisions called Dan grades. Higher degrees mean higher ranks. A Dan who is a degree higher will wear a black belt with more stripes than the lower degree. The added insignia depict seniority. Now both the Koreans and the Chinese are adopting the belt system.

In some schools a black belt can be easy to obtain, in others it is quite hard to get. However, in most schools black belt tests are quite rigorous. Black belts tend to be handed out more easily in the West than in the land of its origin: Japan. In Japan black belts are given with time which means that the person getting them has a fair level of experience and skill. A black belt holder is certainly not a master as the westerners tend to think. It merely means that a person has reached a stage where the basic journey is over and a longer road has to be taken.

Other colors commonly used in belt systems are yellow, orange, green and brown. These are awarded to students who have achieved different levels of proficiency. Some martial arts schools also award blue, purple and red belts but these are less common colors. The reason for such a variety is because colors do not universally stand for the same thing - what they signify differs from one martial arts style or the kind of martial arts training there is to another.

For example, certain schools put the red belt high up in the 9th degree of Dan.
Others award it to children who may have qualified technically to the black belt level but cannot be awarded the belt because they are not ready to shoulder the responsibility that comes with it.

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

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The Martial Arts Supply Launched - Gear & Information
The Martial Arts Supply is an online listing database of martial arts related content and products to facilitate all aspects of training for martial arts practitioners and enthusiasts. The site is designed and operated by Matt Canei, a Tae Kwon Do 1st Dan black belt who is a one-time Junior Olympics Gold Medalist for forms.

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.

A Martial Artist Wears Out Early But A Warrior Gets Better With Age
Ever wonder why Today’s martial artists are broken and battered by middle age when the ancient warrior masters were defeating younger, faster, stronger opponents well into their eighties? The reason just might not be what you think.

Having A Man Isn’t a Self Defense Solution
The majority of women think that because their attacker will inevitably be bigger and stronger then they are that won’t be able do anything to protect themselves if attacked. Worse still, is that they think that if they comply with whatever their attacker demands, everything will be over quickly and they will be fine. What the heck are they thinking?

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Matt Ewin vs. Martin Kampmann Confirmed As The Main Event For Cagewarriors Strike Force 2 - UK vs. the World
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ATTITUDE: “FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION! - 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!

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Sonny Sison joins Black Salt Films
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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!

Action Steps for Successful Knife Defense
First of all, don’t get into knife fights. I don’t care how good you are, if you’re bare handed and in street clothes, and the other guy has a combat knife, you’re at a serious disadvantage.

When Chops And Blocks Alone Will Not Protect You
Tips on achieving the best martial arts workout you have yet to experience.

Close Combat That Forged An Empire
The Romans understood that training and attitude were what
they needed to survive the savage battles of their time.
And the same holds true today whether you are a soldier,
police officer, or just someone concerned about defending
themselves and their family from brutal street violence and
terrorist activity.

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Can You Really Learn Martial Arts and Self-Defense From Seminar Training Only?

What do you do when, you want to pursue the study of the martial arts or learn real-world self-defense and there are no schools near where you live? What do you do even if there are martial arts schools or self-defense classes being offered in your local area but…

…they’re just not up to par with what you want or need.

How can you get what you know you need without compromising quality and settling for what’s available or, even worse…

…not pursuing your goal at all?

Well, you have two choices, really…

…you can accept defeat or the fact that maybe your standards are too high and settle for what’s available, or…

…you can do what scores of very skilled practitioners have done before you. You can take advantage of the benefits of seminars and camps to get the knowledge you need from the best teachers there are.

Instead of “settling” and approaching your training with what amounts to a “victim’s mentality,” you can take control of the situation. Instead of whining, complaining, and making excuses - you can take action - one of the main traits of a warrior.

With all of the power and rich information pool of the internet today, it is impossible to NOT find what you’re looking for in the way of martial arts training. There are literally hundreds of seminars, from half-day workshops to full weekend events, and from one and two-day intensives to full-blown ninja training camps; and they’re all there for the students who are willing to plan a little more, focus a little more, and be ready to travel a little farther than everyone else who HAS “settled.”

Can you really learn martial arts and self-defense from seminar training only? I know it’s worked for me and many of the most proficient experts that I’m associated with. In fact, most of my training career, at least in the early days, was during a time when I was serving with the US Army and stationed in places like Korea and, what was then, West Germany.

Were there martial arts clubs and groups close-by? Absolutely.

But, I had a desire to not only train in the martial arts but, to train with the best. And so…

…I had no choice. I HAD to travel to get what I wanted and needed in the way of quality.

What I found was that I learned more during each training event because there was MORE TO learn. That was perfect for me because it gave me more than enough to work on in-between the martial arts seminars and Ninja Camps that I WAS able to attend. And, it also caused me to focus much more than the local students who were there.

Why?

I think it was because…

…they took their training for granted. Whereas I did not. Since I went through more in the way of time, effort and money to be there, I refused to let any of it slip by. As a result, I, and many of my friends who also traveled for training, developed our self-defense abilities much more fully - learning our martial art with much greater depth than many who had access to their teacher practically everyday.

Funny, really. Because it wasn’t until I became much more interested in the lives of warriors-past, that I realized that this method of training - traveling to one’s teacher to spend short, but intense, visits to gain the lessons for mastery, is exactly the same way many of the most famous warriors in history…

…became Legends!

About the Author

Jeffrey Miller specializes in teaching self-protection and personal development lessons in a way that is easily understood and put to use by modern Western students and corporate clients. Subscribe to his newsletter here

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 Best Martial Art
Many people send us emails inquiring about the best martial art so we decided to write an article about the best martial art in our opinion.

It is a very difficult task to determine which is the best martial art so first of all let?s take a look what a martial art exactly is and what not.

The word ?martial art? consists of 2 parts; ?martial? and ?art? both of them are very important as you will see in the following lines in the determination of what a martial art exactly is.

According to the dictionary the word martial means:

1. Of, relating to, or suggestive of war.
2. Relating to or connected with the armed forces or the profession of arms.
3. Characteristic of or befitting a warrior.

As you can see , martial has everything to do with war and the ways of the warrior.

Art on the other hand gives the following definition:

1. Human effort to imitate, supplements, alters, or counteract the work of nature.

2.
a. The conscious production or arrangement of sounds, colors, forms, movements, or other elements in a manner that affects the sense of beauty, specifically the production of the beautiful in a graphic or plastic medium.

b. The study of these activities.

c. The product of these activities; human works of beauty considered as a group.

3. High quality of conception or execution, as found in works of beauty; aesthetic value.

4. A field or category of art, such as music, ballet, or literature.

5. A non-scientific branch of learning; one of the liberal arts.

6.
a. A system of principles and methods employed in the performance of a set of activities: the art of building.

b. A trade or craft that applies such a system of principles and methods: the art of the lexicographer.

7.
a. Skill that is attained by study, practice, or observation: the art of the baker; the blacksmith’s art.

b. Skill arising from the exercise of intuitive faculties: ?Self-criticism is an art not many are qualified to practice? (Joyce Carol Oates).

8.
a. arts Artful devices, stratagems, and tricks.
b. Artful contrivance; cunning.

So combining the two gives us A system of war principles and war methods employed in the performance of a set of warlike activities as a useful definition for martial art.

In short; ?the training of the methods and principles of war?

This is very important that we understand this completely because most martial arts nowadays are not martial arts as defined by the term above. War is not defined by rules, competition or divisions. War has only one goal; the destruction of the opponent by all necessary means in the shortest time possible.

The moment a martial art acquires rules of competition, divisions, and rules of engagement or protection the martial part of martial arts is lost and the martial art in question becomes a completely different thing.

Now I am not going to write about the sports derived from martial arts because the question in this article is ?What is the best martial art?

In my opinion the best martial art is the one that gives you most options of survival in a true case of life and dead struggle with a professional opponent.

This means that the martial art must be prepared and give the practitioner the possibility and means to deal with both armed as well as unarmed opponents, single or multiple attacks and so on.

This is not only done by techniques because techniques and the human capacity to perform them in the short period of time (seconds) of a true case and in constantly changing environments, situations and against different opponents makes it virtually impossible to use only techniques overcome all kinds of attacks.

This is where the martial methods in Japan became an art. Being aware of the limitations of training (limited time and physical capacity) the Japanese bushi started to study the underlying principles of war. They found out that all human beings have similar reactions when they are to be found in similar situations.

Let me give you an example to make this clear: When someone touches a hot stove his hand automatically recoils without even having to think about pulling your hand back. Or when your head is pulled down, your body automatically will follow and to prevent falling to the floor you will resist pulling to the opposite side of the force pulling you down.

Knowing and understanding these concepts gave the boshi in ancient Japan an enormous advantage over his adversaries. It increased by no small amount his capacity to deal with life threatening situations.

Today this is still useful and I think it will always because humans today are the same as the ones of 600 years ago. We still share the same fears and instinctive reflexes and the principles of war have not changed, only the means by which we engage in war.

So if you want to practice the best martial art first of all you must be prepared to do a lot of hard physical training (did you ever see a warrior with an overweight of 50 pounds ?) to prepare your body, next explore your fears and instinctive reactions and adapt or change them to fit your needs as a warrior so you will be able to use them in true combat and finally learn to understand your opponent and use his fears and instinctive reactions against him.

This will give you the best martial art.

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>

Popularity: unranked [?]

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

“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.

Bruce Lee, The Greatest Martial Arts Action Hero

Before Jackie Chan, Jet Li, Steven Seagal and Jean-Claude Van Damme, there was Bruce Lee. In a way, it is a real shame that many of today?s generation of action film fans have never been exposed to Bruce Lee because he was perhaps the greatest martial arts action hero of all time. His martial arts on film may not have been as fancy as say Jackie Chan?s or Jet Li?s but his on screen ferocity and charisma are unequalled. Even more important was the impact on martial arts that Bruce Lee had which still endures today even over 30 years since his passing.

Bruce Lee always considered himself a martial artist first and an actor second. As a martial artist, he was way ahead of his time in developing his own style of martial arts he called jeet kune do. His martial arts incorporated the most practical techniques from various combative disciplines as he moved away from the traditional and classical techniques. His martial arts abilities were real and

respected by other prominent martial artists like Jhoon Rhee, Chuck Norris, Ed Parker and Joe Lewis. His name was inducted into the prestigious Black Belt Hall of Fame twice, once while he was alive and the other after his death. These are honors that no other martial arts action hero has ever come close to. Martial arts schools in North America enjoyed a huge growth in enrollment because of Bruce Lee.

North America got an early glimpse of Bruce Lee when he played Kato in the Green Hornet television series and a bit role in the movie Marlowe. He went to Hong Kong and made a few films like Fists of Fury (called the Big Boss in the Asia market) and the Chinese Connection which made him a huge star in Asia. Bruce Lee also wrote, directed and starred in his own movie production called the Way of the Dragon which featured perhaps one of the greatest martial arts fight scenes ever. This scene took place in the Roman Coliseum and was with Chuck Norris which gave Norris his first film start. It was Enter the Dragon that broke him to North America. Unfortunately, he died tragically at the age of 32 in 1973 before he was able to witness the success of that movie. At the time of Lee?s death, he had completed the fight scenes for another movie called Game of Death which featured basketball star Kareem Abdul-Jabar, who was actually one of his martial arts students. Other students of Bruce Lee included actors Steve McQueen and James Coburn. Game of Death was completed with look-alike actors later on.

One of the most significant contributions Bruce Lee made is that he opened the door for other Asians in the entertainment industry worldwide. He was the first Asian to achieve any significant success in the North American entertainment scene. He became a star in North America and the rest of the world by playing heroes rather than past stereotype roles for Asians such as like servants, gangsters, laundry workers or other ?pigtail coolie? characters. On an even greater scale, Bruce Lee gave Asians, particularly the Chinese people worldwide, a reason to be proud. Bruce Lee influenced them to be confident in pushing forward to achieve their goals no matter what field they were in.

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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.

John Graden’s Secrets to Sparring
An introduction to sparring by a master martial arts instructor John Graden

Martial Arts Book Review - The Way of Kata by Lawrence A. Kane
This book should be required reading for any, and I do mean any, and all individuals who practice a martial art that incorporates kata as a requirement for advancement. Although I knew a quite a bit of information that Lawrence had provided in this book, there was just as much if not more that I didn’t know, or had a slightly different outlook on. Needless to say I was very impressed with the information contained in this book.

Popularity: unranked [?]

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

“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.

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”

Martial Arts Training for Real Self-Defense: Making Sense of Chaos

I once had a talk with a student who pointed out the almost insane notion that anyone could think that they could use a preset string of moves (known as a kata, pronounced kah-tah) to handle something as chaotic as a fight. He said it made no sense to him how any master, who really knew what he was talking about, could pass down “the answer” to such an unknown as a fight.

He’s right. And yet, day after day, in countless schools, training centers, police departments, and military units around the world, there are those who believe that what they are learning will be exactly what they need to win, should they ever be attacked.

Can you imagine, for those of you who have yet to be accosted, what it feels like inside the heart of an attack? I mean, what do you know about the situation that you haven’t been in yet?

Unless you’re clairvoyant and can see into the future - in which case you wouldn’t need self-defense training because you would either…

1) know what to avoid, or…

2) know you weren’t going to survive -

There is a plethora of things that you don’t, and can’t possibly, know about this situation that hasn’t happened yet. Things like:

A) Where you will be attacked (parking lot, building, your car, at-home in-bed, etc.)

B) Who your attacker will be

C) How many assailant’s you will face

D) Whether or not there are any weapons involved (and what type, if any)

E) How you will be attacked

F) What you’ll be wearing or carrying that could help or hinder you, and…

G) Much, much more!

So, how can anyone think that a preset string of moves will be of any use to them in an actual, real-world, attack? Better still, why would they have been passed down for hundreds of years if they couldn’t help?

Well, the short of it, based on my own research, is this. There are two schools of thought when it comes to answering this question. The first is the idea that says…

…”we must make sure that warriors have a way to practice during periods of peace so that they’ll be ready for the next war. So, what we’ll do is string some basics together in a way that they can rely on repetitive practice to stay ready.”

The other so-called “school-of-thought” said, “Let’s look at the most common attacks that we, with our current set of circumstances, will have to deal with. Then, we’ll design a set of example techniques - “fight-scenarios if-you-will - that contain the essence or idea of what could be done in a situation like that. We’ll convey the principles and concepts through techniques that are not so-much “set-in-stone” as they are representations of these principles in action.”

One school recognized the need to practice the basic mechanics - the “brand” of punching, kicking, etc. (the “secrets”) - of their art when there wasn’t a war going on. In fact, most schools of training in Japan are still passed on this way. The school allows the student’s own intuitive and perceptual powers to determine his or her own level of understanding.

However, for many of these martial systems, the techniques ARE the art. That means that they represent that which makes a particular lineage’s techniques and “style” unique among all others. It is not generally acceptable to change the techniques for any reason, as in the case of my friend that I talked about earlier.

The other school recognized that there is an infinite number of combinations if we were to just focus on the mechanics alone. They also recognized that “what” you do is not nearly as important as “when”, “why,” “how,” and under what circumstances you would do anything. Granted, this was more difficult to understand than the basic step-by-step method (which this school DID employ by-the-way), but the idea was that, the principles were much more important than the techniques if one were to win in a conflict.

While the step-by-step, preset model approach does teach students how to apply techniques, from my perspective and experience with having to deal with violent attackers in real-world self-defense situations, it is the later approach - the focus on workable principles and concepts for controlling the situation - that provides the real keys to mastery.

But, it’s not martial arts mastery - the mastery of technique - that I’m talking about. But rather the ability to master and control…

Your Environment

Your Attacker’s Perceptions

The Space and Distance within the fight

The Assailant’s Options

And much Much MORE!

…that allows you to control the very flow of the situation, from moment-to-moment, as it unfolds.

It is this grander-view of the reality of the situation that allows the true martial arts master - the strategic warrior commander, to see beyond the mere punching, kicking, or slashing of the attacker. It is the view that allows us to make sense out of the chaos that is a fight and…

…appear to be magicians and wizards to others with less understanding of the workings of nature and the enlightened wisdom of the trained martial master.

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

Popularity: unranked [?]

The Confusion About Korean Martial Arts

It is unknown to many that Korea has more martial forms other than Taekwondo and Hapkido. This is because the term Korean martial arts loosely embraces all the art forms that either originated in or were modified in Korea. There are several other forms that use the sword, knife and even archery that are not so well known outside Korea.

To comprehend how Korean martial art evolved, we must analyze the social, political and religious influences that the country went through. The Koreans were colonized by the Japanese for a long time and they embraced Neo-Confucianism. At that point in time, the Koreans developed a disinterest in martial arts.

Years after, the indigenous Korean art forms barely survived in the original and there is little in terms of archives that one can refer to. The lack of documentation makes it difficult to pinpoint the original art forms of Korea. Purists argue that it was in Korea that several martial art forms originated and then traveled to China, from where they went to Japan and then came back to Korea.
However, when the Japanese colonized Korea, many of the latter’s pure martial art forms were suppressed.

After their liberation in 1945, Korean martial artists made conscious efforts to re-establish Korean martial arts and cleanse themselves of the influence of Japanese occupation. In this revival the martial artists did not have much to rely on in terms of written records.
Muyedobotongji is perhaps the only surviving ancient text on Korean martial arts, the only authentic reference manual for Koreans keen to discover their old traditions. As a result this revival phase saw recompilation or reorganization of techniques that are not wholly traditional but also imported by Koreans studying the arts of the neighboring regions. It is only in the 20th century when Taekwondo, the form synonymous with Korean martial arts, was organized into its present form.

The present set of Korean martial arts has a very strong visual resemblance to art forms of China. Influences of boxing as well as western martial arts are also visible. Taekyon, a dance-like martial art features kicks, sweeps, and strikes while Ssireum (Korean wrestling) resembles Mongolian wrestling. Yudo, Kumdoo, Tang Soo Do, Mudokkwan Subakdo have all be reconstructed with considerable Japanese and Chinese influence. On the other hand Gukgung, Sonmudo and Bulmudo more or less survive in their pure forms.

So if you happen to learn a Korean art form and get a sense of d?j? vu, do not worry. Chances are you would have seen similar moves made by artists across the Orient.

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

UFCjunkie.com Announces Sponsorship of Sean Salmon for May 26’s UFC 71 Event
UFCjunkie.com, the leading online source for UFC-related news, is proud to announce its sponsorship of UFC light heavyweight Sean Salmon (9-2 MMA, 0-1 UFC), who will face Alan Belcher (9-3 MMA, 1-2 UFC) at UFC 71. The event takes place Saturday, May 26 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. (PRWeb May 23, 2007)

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The Martial Arts Supply.Net Launched: Martial Arts Gear, Information & Articles Database
The Martial Arts Supply is an online listing database of martial arts related content and products to facilitate all aspects of training for martial arts practitioners and enthusiasts. The site is designed and operated by Matt Canei, a Tae Kwon Do 1st Dan black belt who is a one-time Junior Olympics Gold Medalist for forms. (PRWeb May 10, 2007)

Popularity: unranked [?]

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.

The Cagewarriors Fighting Championships Make A Successful Return To Coventry With Strike Force 2
Michael “The Count” Bisping goes to 8-0 with another KO win, whilst the 170kg Zuluzinho is triumphant as the Wolfslair Academy has another successful UK MMA outing.

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

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 Martial Arts of China

China is the place of origin of the earliest form of martial arts that began 2500 years ago. Martial arts, as the greatest enhancer of the body represent a number of fighting systems, each system possessing a unique set of techniques that is continually perfected over the ages. However, Hollywood placed the idea of martial arts in a box and restricted it as just a cultural practice of Oriental countries, and the truth is Martial arts has been a worldwide practice for quite a long time already.

The Chinese martial arts are the most advanced and the most varied. Drawing their inspiration from birds, reptiles, animals as well as their strong philosophies - Chinese martial art is unique and absolutely astounding.

These martial arts have been practiced for thousands of years, and even today maintain their vigor and originality. They can broadly be classified into the following categories:

1. Wushu Styles: Wushu is an ancient and fluid martial art form that is based on rapid kicks and jumps. There are hundreds of styles and schools of this particular art form. However most can be grouped under five or six categories. These are:

a) Northern Shaolin Temple Styles: These styles are said to have originated in the northern provinces of Cchina such as Henna. They focus on kicks, jumps and fluid movements. This is said to be because the northern population of China was taller and made full use of their longer limbs. Changquan, the sword and broadsword routines used in contemporary Wushu competitions, belong to these schools.

b) Southern Shaolin Temple Styles: These originated in southern China, in the provinces south of the Yangtze River (Chang Jiang). The people here were shorter and therefore the styles developed here focused mostly on the upper body strength and speed. Some Southern styles are Nanquan, Hung Gar, Wing Chun, and Choy Lay F.

c) External styles: The external style is most often perceived to be synonymous with Chinese martial arts because it focuses on physical strength, agility, stamina and explosive movements. External style training concentrates on muscular power, speed and application. These styles generally integrate their qigong aspects during advanced training levels after the desired physical hardiness has been reached. External styles include most types of Wushu, except Taijiquan, Xingyiquan, Baguazhang and Liu He Ba Fa.

d) Internal or soft styles: Soft style focuses on building power by focusing on internal elements such as the spirit, energy flow and by using relaxed leverage rather than brute force. Theorists say that the internal and the external styles differ in their focus on the philosophy of martial arts. The internal stylists are seen as philosopher-fighters, spending more time on developing the soul. The External schools are the ones that focus more on the hard aspect of developing physical prowess.

However Internal schools do focus on physical training. The movements and postures are slow as opposed to fast and explosive. The idea is to involve the entire body in every motion, stay relaxed, with deep, controlled breathing and coordinate the motions of the body to the breathing. All this should be done, while maintaining perfect balance. Taijiquan, Baguazhang, and Xingyiquan, Liuhexinyiquan, Liu He Ba Fa and
Yiquan are all internal styles.

2. Buddhist styles: Buddhist styles were created mostly within Buddhist temples by Buddhist monks and later spread to laymen. These styles include Buddhist philosophy, imagery, numbers, and principles. The most famous are Shaolinquan, Luohanquan, Hung
Gar, Wing Chun and White Crane.

3. Daoist styles: Daoist styles were developed within Daoist Temples by Daoist ascetics and include Daoist principles, philosophy, and imagery.

4. Muslim styles: Muslim styles were practiced by the Muslim Hui minority in China. These styles have Muslim principles or imagery and include Chaquan, Xinyiliuhequan, and Qishiquan.
Drawing on physical skills bring about discipline and well-being.

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

Tai Chi Chuan - General Background
As a martial art, Tai chi chuan works on a number of levels, but the principal aim is to teach practitioners to relax and become fluid in their movements. This allows for smoother actions and quicker response times. The objective is for self-defence to become a reflexive action rather than a repetition of technique. There is a variety of sensitivity exercises which allow the practitioner to adapt instantly to an opponent and to react in the most appropriate manner. Incoming force will, typically, be diverted, however slightly, and the corresponding opening in the opponent’s defence exploited.

Martial Arts Book Review - Judo Pick-Ups by Robert Van De Walle
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 Robert Van De Walle’s, “Judo Pick-Ups.” Actually I guess I should revise that statement to include any and all books in the Judo Masterclass Techniques series. This series of books is absolutely amazing in its structure and presentation of the materials in each volume.

Develop Complete Body Control, Fine Balance and Fast Reflexive Action
In Jujitsu training, you will learn moves such as grappling, throws, joint locks, chokes and various type of holds. Would you like to learn the proper striking methods, kicking, punches, knees and elbows?

Popularity: unranked [?]

The Martial Arts Supply Launched - Gear & Information
The Martial Arts Supply is an online listing database of martial arts related content and products to facilitate all aspects of training for martial arts practitioners and enthusiasts. The site is designed and operated by Matt Canei, a Tae Kwon Do 1st Dan black belt who is a one-time Junior Olympics Gold Medalist for forms.

The Foundation of Martial Arts: Yoga

At first glance, Martial Arts and Yoga seem like opposing forces and philosophies, but these two health maintenance systems have more in common than meets the eye. For a moment, consider the similarities between Tai Chi and Hatha Yoga. Within the warm up, you notice very similar movement, philosophy, and principles.

Why does “climb the mountain” stance look so much like
Warrior I posture? Is it coincidence, luck, or a common link? Why does Kundalini have movements that resemble punching, kicking, and martial arts foot work? Are Kung Fu forms an extension of Vinyasa? Each has been referred to as meditation in motion.

The place of origin, for most Asian martial arts, is agreed to be the Shaolin Temple. Apparently, the monks at the Shaolin temple had become very proficient at meditation, but had not developed a health maintenance system to sufficiently train their bodies.

In the sixth century A.D., Bhoddidharma, a visiting
Buddhist monk, from India, began to teach the monks at the Shaolin temple, in Hunan Province, a form of physical health maintenance, which is believed to be Yoga. It is also said that Boddidharma was a member of the Warrior caste. Therefore, he should also have had working knowledge of Kalarippayat; an indigenous Indian Martial art.

Boddidharma is said to have reached a level of meditation that was very advanced. The body can be trained to a point, but the mind should also be trained as well. This is a cornerstone to all martial arts training. How often have we heard about the three conflicts of mind, body, and spirit?

This is why each martial arts school should encourage a Yoga class. The healing aspect of Yoga is very beneficial to all martial artists - regardless of their style. Some martial arts centers have incorporated Yoga as part of the class schedule. The reason was to attract mothers, who were hanging around the waiting area, to pick up their kids.

While there is a demand for Yoga classes among women, some martial artists, both male and female, will join in to feel the healing benefits, meditate, increase flexibility, and much more. The fact is, much like martial arts, there are many styles of Yoga.

Some are very physical and demand a lot of endurance. So, there is no end to the possibilities of where the need for Yoga can fit within a martial arts studio. After all these years, it looks like Yoga and martial arts will be together again.

? 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

These Martial Arts Exercises Will Improve Strength, Power, Speed, Quickness And Jumping Ability
These following exercises are design with specifics parts of the body and will help your Exercises to improve Martial Arts.

Popularity: unranked [?]

Ju-Jitsu - General Background
The art of Ju-jitsu is interpreted as being the “science of softness”. Translated literally, ju means gentle or soft and jitsu means art. While referred to as “a gentle art”, some of the techniques are nevertheless extremely dynamic in their delivery and would appear to be anything but soft.

Martial Arts For The Troubled Mind

Have you had a loved one pass away recently? Or maybe you are thinking about leaving a relationship or your job? Death is another metaphor for change. Yet death has been given a bad name. Compared to birth and life. Death is not something one talks about. Yet it happens. Life and death are connected. When we are born, death is inevitable. From my first breath to my last gasp, my life will end one day. So when death comes, why should I be surprised or fearful? Yet the honest truth, life involves facing fear. Fear of pain. Fear of rejection. Fear of growing old. Fear of loss. A lot of these fears are self-inflicted. We sometimes worry about a future event that is not here yet. Or a past hurt that happened years ago. Yet a lot of our beliefs define our biology.

The word Terror is becoming a common word. In some countries children are now growing up hearing the word Terror. Children sense vibrations very easily. The word Terror soon gets imprinted into their cells. They form their behaviours. These children will grow into neurotic adults. The fears of the parents will fest in the children.

This is where a martial arts for the mind is needed. I am not talking about sparring tournaments and sports trophies. It is about the victory within. Resisting other people’s fears. Conquering your own fears. Your fears are like your enemies. This is where the battle is fought. Inside your mind. Ghost memories. Carnivorous beliefs. These can drain your energy. Suck your life force.

It is about repatterning the way you think. The way you move. The way you live your life.

Here is one example of how this works.

Try this.
Say the word, NO, 10 times with intensity.
Say the word, YES, 10 times with intensity.

Note the feelings in your body. Which word caused tightness? Which one expanded your energy? Now if we keep repeating words and thoughts that have negative vibrations than these can affect our energy flows. They can form negative blocks at a psychic level. Some may manifest as physical illnesses.

Recently I helped a woman who had being raped by a close relative when she was 11 years old. She asked for my help so I agreed. Her energy towards men was dark and angry yet she wanted to be in a loving relationship with a man. So we worked on transforming the negative energy. She told me about the rape. I found where she was carrying this blockage. It was in her lower abdomen. The next thing I did was to change the body vibration associated with the negative memory. I got the woman to breathe into the area by focussing her mind and breath. Help shift the energy. I wacked her body in certain places to jolt the mind and loosen up the negative memory. I then got her heart involved by asking her about love and forgiveness. She said love was like a warm feeling flowing out from her upper chest. I got her to channel this energy down into her painful memory.

At this point she started to scream and cry for a couple of minutes.

She fell down and curled into the foetal position as she recovered. I patiently watched over her during this time. The tears, the screaming and physical collapse is all part of the cleansing process. Bit like the winter before the spring. When she stood up and had returned to normal, her energy block had shifted. Her face looked much lighter. She gave me a big hug. My final words was that she daily cultivate her energy, weed out the good from the bad stuff. And make peace with whoever. My work was done. It was now over to her.

The lesson is that it is really about teaching yourself. You are both the teacher and the student. Use your own life experiences to create your own stances, forms and techniques. Deep deep down you know what works best for you. Your very own nature will show you how. Just listen to what your heart and body tell you sometimes.

About the Author

Hirini Reedy is a Maori healer, former military officer, martial arts founder and eco-business coach. Learn about the 7 Seeds of Maori Wisdom. Feel the power of Thunderclap Breathing. Read more at http://www.maori-secrets.com

Muay Thai Combinations You Need To Know To Win Your Fights
They’re not going to load you up with lots of “Contemplate the caterpillar weaving its cocoon” philosophy - they get straight on with it, covering stances, blocks and traps, and how to combine them into combinations.

Popularity: unranked [?]

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.

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.

Brand New Mini Stun Gun Offers Powerful Punch
Everybody I am sure has watched Cops before and seen those videos of out-of-control ?bad guys? and seen them get shocked or tased by either a stun gun or a taser. Or, for any 24 fans out there we all say Jack shock President Logan in an attempt to subdue him and get him off of the helicopter. Well, the problem with most stun guns today is that although they are pretty small, you may want them just a little bit smaller. Maybe something just a little easier to carry around with you is all you would want. That time has come. The new kid in town is here. Introducing The Runt Stun Gun.

Everyone has seen the Stun Master?s and what they look like. The new Runt Stun Gun is easily concealable and it will fit virtually undetectable in the hand of a woman or a man. This allows your attacker to approach with no fear. The element of surprise is the key here. Your attacker will drop to his knees and will never see it coming.

The reason for this sudden surprise and drop comes from the technology that The Runt possesses. It uses new cutting edge micro-technology that allows it to deliver unprecedented power from a palm sized weapon. It contains three voltage levels so you can choose how much you need to use. I would recommend choosing the level based on your own size and how much more power you would need to subdue a man two or three times your size.

The Runt is perfect for all women or men of all sizes and is available in 350k, 650k, and 950k volts. This selection of voltage will allow people to get the kind of voltage they are looking for. At 950k volts, this is hands down one of the most powerful stun guns on the market today.

Adam Walls is the owner of 919 Security, an online self defense products store that also specializes in home and personal safety, child safety, hidden cameras and much, much more.
<a href="http://www.919security.com/runtstungun.htm" title="http://www.919security.com/runtstungun.htm" target="_blank">http://www.919security.com/runtstungun.htm</a>
<a href="http://www.919security.com" title="http://www.919security.com" target="_blank">http://www.919security.com</a>
<a href="http://www.all-hidden-cams.com" title="http://www.all-hidden-cams.com" target="_blank">http://www.all-hidden-cams.com</a>

Popularity: unranked [?]

Martial Arts Book Review: Fists, Wits, and a Wicked Right by Marc “Animal” MacYoung

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 Marc ?Animal? MacYoung?s, “Fists, Wits, and a Wicked Right.”

One of the great things that I absolutely love about Marc?s books is his no-holds barred direct approach to getting his point across. There is never any sugarcoating or politically correct terminology is his books. He simply tells it like it is, whether you like it or not. Marc?s not-so-politically correct way of explaining things is always refreshing in today?s society where everyone wants to sugarcoat everything so as not to offend anyone. In some ways, I would compare Marc?s method of teaching to the comical rants of George Carlin. You may be offended by what he says, but by golly it?s the truth. And yes, sometimes the truth hurts.

Once again, Marc gives you a no-holds barred look at the reality of fighting and surviving on the street. This book is simply loaded with sound principles and easy to learn techniques for making the most of a bad situation. Marc discusses the various hand positions and striking surfaces that can be used for striking your opponent, as well as, the principles behind them. I find this information on the principles behind the techniques very useful, and it is usually a very good indicator of a high quality self-defense and/or martial arts book.

The other major area covered in this book is the various vulnerable and vital areas throughout the human body that can be exploited during a fight. Marc not only tells you what areas to strike, but also how to strike them and what happens to a person when these areas are struck. Always a very useful piece of information to know before it is needed. It is also something that you will want to store in the old grey matter. Like my father used to say, ?Use your head for more than a hat rack!?

If you are a strict traditional martial artist with a closed mind then (although this book would definitely be good for you), don?t waste your time or money buying it. However, regardless of your training background, if you have an open mind and are willing to look at something from a slightly different viewpoint, then I would highly recommend that you add this book (and others like it) to your personal library.

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 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.

By reading Marc?s books, I feel that he had the great misfortune to be exposed to way too many of the former and not enough of the latter. Having said that, I can totally understand where Marc?s bias towards the ?McDojo? type martial arts comes from, and one that I myself tend to agree with.

Although a lot of what Marc teaches in this book I already knew, there were just as many things that I didn?t know, or was shown from a different view point. I am never too old to learn and I definitely learned a lot by reading this book. You will too!

Remember, if you think you know everything, you actually know nothing!

Women’s Title Fight Added To Cagewarriors Quest Volume 3 Card On September 17th
Defending Cagewarrors Women’s Champion Rosi Sexton makes her return to Mixed Martial Arts action against the rising Welsh star Sabrina Cohen at Cagewarriors Quest Volume 3 in the Octagon Centre, Sheffield on September 17th.

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.

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.

Popularity: unranked [?]

Martial Arts Book Review - Skill in Counterattacks by Pu Gill Gwon
Counterattacking is often considered the “master’s attack” and, when executed efficiently and effectively, is without a doubt the sign of a very skilled and proficient fighter. In his book, “Skill in Counterattacks,” Tae Kwon Do master Pu Gill Gwon demonstrates this concept to the reader in a very professional and skillful manner.

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.

“Kick Me Where It Counts” - A Critical Mistake in Martial Arts and Self-Defense Training
During my recent visit to Japan for training, there was one overriding thing that I noticed about most of the black belts that I trained with. Now, if they were just having fun and aren’t really looking to be able to defend themselves…

Sparring Drills Are A Vital Part Of The Learning Experience In Taekwondo
It’s all about the technique. Speed and power comes second if you really want to be successful in taekwondo.

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.

Self Defense And Street Fight Psychology
Let?s speak about the psychological aspect of a street collision. You should differentiate two items. You must realize, whether your fight is a result of a usual domestic conflict, or you are attacked by a robber, killer or bandit. Your actions will flow depending on these circumstances.

If it is an everyday domestic conflict that happens in the street (someone pushed you or your leg, disturbed the queue order etc.), you should not use your fighting knowledge and skills to put your opponent out of action.

As a rule, all these conflicts occur because of trifles, and you need to behave normally in this case, let?s say naturally. When this conflict happens, no one wants to fight actually, but just gets rid of the negative energy that was accumulated.

Those who express harshly their negative reaction are not dangerous at all in most cases. He will threaten you, make expressive gestures, grab you with iron fingers but nothing more will happen. This is nothing but the pose which does not contain real threat at all. However, there are exceptions in this case too. You must define at once who is dangerous and who is not.

I would like to precise one thing. Though laws and principles of a hand-to-hand fighting are the same, a sports battle in a gym differs greatly from that one happened in the street. If you are calm when fight in a sports gym and don?t worry about fatal injury, you will be extremely nervous when come across your real enemy in the street. You won?t fight according to rule (as you do in the sports gym), you need to act most quickly and cruelly sometimes for your effective self defense.

The psychological aspect plays a very important role in the street scuffle. You must prevent your enemy?s attack or take the lead over him. Therefore, I advise you on no account not to start fighting if you see you can avoid it.

If you cannot do that and you know you will be attacked inevitably, you should act quickly, harshly and be the first with attack actions. Lots of things depend on who starts the battle first. This is the main distinction of a street fight. When you train in the sports gym, it is not important at all who will attack first. Both fighters are ready to attack and defense.

It is not the same thing in the street fight. Opponents rarely stand at the certain stances (as in the sport gym) and are situated in close distance quite often. In other words, they are in the hitting zone of each other. Hence, a person who starts his attack first has a huge advantage. Attack here means just the most harsh and strong action and not the expressive gestures at usual domestic conflict.

I always feel awkward when I am forced to come into such conflict. When I see a person standing in front of myself and offending me, I feel ashamed for this conflict that occurred. This person cannot be dangerous for me, he is completely defenseless.

I know that I can put him out of action in a moment, but my consciousness does not let me do that. As we see, such clashes that happen in shops, public transport, streets etc are not the fight itself, but just an everyday conflict.

Real fight happens when your enemy or enemies are certain in their superiority over you. For example, it may be numerical advantage, force advantage or armament advantage.

So, I strongly recommend to you: try to avoid street fight at any cost. If you see you are about to be attacked, you need to act most quickly and harshly. You must always remember that if your enemy is eager to fight with you, he is sure in his superiority. If he is alone and is not too strong or high, but still wants to fight, it means most likely that he is either armed with the weapon or instructed of some martial art.

Alexander Popov is the leading expert in knife and hand-to-hand combat in the version of Spetsnaz GRU. Spetsnaz martial arts videos and ebooks: <a href="http://www.spetsnaz-gru-smersh.com" title="http://www.spetsnaz-gru-smersh.com" target="_blank">http://www.spetsnaz-gru-smersh.com</a>

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

Popularity: unranked [?]

Keys Of Hung Gar Kung Fu Mastering
1. While polishing your technique you should never stick out your chest or stomach either when fighting or practicing. It stiffens your body and makes your movements awkward. As a result, you are losing control over your body. While practicing always make sure to keep your back bent outward and chest incurved. This is the right sign to distinguish between Kung Fu masters and Kung Fu athletes.

2. Despite the fact that the back should be a bit bent outward, you have to maintain the body centrality; by no means should the body be bent too much. Otherwise it will lose the balance, which can result in loss of equilibrium and steadiness, and make the outgoing energy weak. The back and pelvis must be in the same plane.

3. Bending your head down in fight is like blindfolding yourself, since with your head down you cannot fully control all the actions of your enemy. Moreover, it can lead you to losing the balance.

4. During the fight, your waist should be down. If it is not, it makes Qi to go upward and accumulate in the chest. This accumulation of Qi in the chest causes you to lose the steadiness; your movements will immediately become clumsy and awkward. A man with his Qi in lower Dan Tian can be compared to a weeble wobble, since it is virtually impossible to throw him down on the ground. Now, consider moving the load in the lower part of the weeble wobble upward; the slightest push would overturn the weeble wobble.

5. The hand is rounded in elbow and wrist.

6. Practicing, always make sure to perform movements correctly. Otherwise, you would get bad habits, which is rather harmful than advantageous. Mastering new techniques, you should always act without haste; only when you have repeated movements correctly many times, you can consider increasing speed and strength.

7. It is not good performing already learnt techniques with negligence, so-so, since it is hardly of any use. Performing already mastered techniques you need to fully use your consciousness, i.e., using consciousness (Yi) send your energy Qi to the section of the body engaged in this technique. For example, kicking with your heel the moment the heel touches the enemy (target) you need to fully focus on throwing the energy through the heel.

8. Inside yourself, you should work out your mind, spirit, consciousness and Qi until they join together. Only when this happens you will be able to send your Qi anywhere at your wish.

9. The key to mastering is in everyday work at the thing neither master not disciple can do without, namely polishing the basic technique.

Alexander Popov dedicated about 20 years to Shaolin Hung Gar Kung Fu. He is the successor of Hung Gar Kung Fu tradition in the 8th masters? generation. Kung Fu and Qigong articles and ebooks:
<a href="http://www.shaolin-kungfu-qigong.com" title="http://www.shaolin-kungfu-qigong.com" target="_blank">http://www.shaolin-kungfu-qigong.com</a>

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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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.

Self Defense And Psychological Preparedness
Being psychologically prepared is critical for self defense during an assault in the street. It is very important to be ready to repel the assailant (assailants) using all the means you have. Note that even being in not very good physical shape these means could be quite sufficient to disable your enemy (enemies).

For example, if you wear hard sharp-toe shoes, then kicking your enemy in groin or shank with the toe of such shoe (even if there are no years of practice behind this kick) immediately makes him writhe with pain for several moments. And this gives you enough time to either disable the enemy or simply run away.

Scratching facer using fingernails also causes pain shock to your enemy and makes him unable to resist for some time. Remembering how dangerous a furious cat can be for people is enough to understand this.

In several cases, a furious cat is known to make its owners hide in one of the rooms and wait for the police to come and help them. Police officers in this situation often have to use guns to protect themselves and rescue the owners of the animal.

Now let’s take a look at a cat, its weight is about 30 times less than that of a man. And this tiny thing can resist police officers armed with firearms. That’s one thing. The other thing is that a common schoolboy, who tortures a cat giving it a hard time, can cope with it, the cat doing nothing to protect itself.

Now you can see the difference between a man employing everything he has at hand to give furious resistance to an assault, and a man who does not resist at all or makes poor attempts to resist.

So we see, at one hand, the enraged and furiously attacking cat that a couple of armed policemen cannot restrain, and, on the other hand, a meek unresisting cat that a little boy can easily handle. The difference is very substantial. This example clearly shows that the more furious and fast you resistance, the more chances you have to win the fight.

I remember a story told me by my disciple about one weak man small in stature, who succeeded in protecting himself against a husky trained fellow with the black belt in taekwondo, who assaulted him.

This small man was so furious and fearless giving his much stronger offender a hail of blows (weak and unskilled as they were) as to shock the guy and made him only try to cover himself from the blows.

One would think what chances had this tiny, middle-aged man, who has never gone in for any sport in a fight against a young and well-trained in taekwondo school guy with the black belt. Any one would say he had no chance. However, it all turned out badly for no one, but the young insolent beggar.

Why, after all, the winner was that small man, who had no chance to win. It is very simple. The moment the fight began, he had his consciousness fully blocked; he acted automatically guided by his subconsciousness.

At the moment, he had nothing in his mind, but the enemy and the thought of disabling that enemy by any means possibly. At that moment, his consciousness was, as it were, at one with the Universe. He feared nothing since the sense of fear was gone from him.

He had neither diffidence nor other impeding factors, that’s why all his actions became TRUE ones. Even though he had not much power and skill, but all he had he putted in each blow. So that’s why, seemingly, with no chance to succeed he won the unequal fight.

Quite contrarily, his enemy was stiffened with fear and uncertainty as a result of this sudden and furious repel. Who could ever dare to attack him, as he was so strong and practiced fighter, he thought. Certainly not this small man, who, as it seemed, was supposed to be trembling with fear.

But it turned out so that it was that strong and trained beef, who had a weak spirit. At the critical moment, his will, composure and fighting skills failed him. He simply got scared and confused, and, as a result, was defeated by a weaker and less skilled opponent.

Alexander Popov is the leading expert in knife and hand-to-hand combat in the version of Spetsnaz GRU. Spetsnaz martial arts videos and ebooks: <a href="http://www.spetsnaz-gru-smersh.com" title="http://www.spetsnaz-gru-smersh.com" target="_blank">http://www.spetsnaz-gru-smersh.com</a>

How to increase your Martial Arts Weapons Skills Almost overnight!
How to gain more in the next 6 months in Martial Arts than you have in the prior 5 years! Learning Martial Arts is a lifelong process. That statement is certainly true but in the last 6 months I have learned more than in the prior 23 years about the inside secrets to real Martial Arts Training Success. It took learning real training methods from an incredible Grandmaster and true Martial Arts Legend to help me leapfrog my technique to a much hirer level almost overnight. You see I used to train about 1-2 hours a day in my teenage years, and I had a very good instructor. However; even at the 1st Dan Black Belt level he would not share much of the behind the scenes training secrets that there are in Martial Arts. Since those early days I have trained with some of the best in the World, and I have gained a lot personally from everyone. However; in the last six months I have experience powerful gains in a key area of my Martial Arts Training and that is in Weapons Training. Yes ever since I joined the Martial Arts Weapons Association and started learning the methods that Grandmaster Ted Gambordella teaches, I have made huge gains in weapons knowledge and skills. I have nearly mastered 5 weapons in only 6 months and that is just launching from a basic knowledge level. Sure I knew my Katas and my basic weapon work, but now I understand the inside mechanics of my weapon Kata and the overall advantages of one weapon over another. Here I am in my 30s and I am now finally getting it, and thats after a 3rd Dan in one style and a 1st Dan in another. I am lucky that my basics were as solid as they where because considering that I trained in traditional schools and Dojos over the years. If you too want to make massive gains in your Martial Arts Weapons training I strongly recommend the Martial Arts Weapons Association. It is the lowest cost way to learn from a legend and get an entire library worth of books and videos. In fact Grandmaster Gambordella has reduced the cost to only $35 so anyone at any level in the Martial Arts Sport can afford to get the best training and information. The secret to proper training is studied and practicing a real method. Katas are fine but they will never take you to the highest levels. You can be great at a Kata (as I was) but still be bad with your weapon. So you simply have to learn the right way from the right instructor. This is your opportunity to learn from a legend and for next to nothing.

Lee Warrick is a seasoned Martial Artist and instructor and is working with Grandmaster Gambordella on www.themartialartssite.com/MAWA.html

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