Forging a personal path. . Ultimately karate-ka who put in the training hours with the right teachers and mentors, often end up ‘doing their own thing’. . Sometimes you will hear people say; “but it’s just made up”. Well yes, of course it is. Isn’t everything in the beginning? Everyone will be influenced by somebody…
Month: May 2023
“When I look around, I always learn something, and that is to be always yourself. And to express yourself. To have faith in yourself.”
Something different. . Bruce Lee, a cultural icon and martial arts legend, has left an indelible mark on the world of combat sports and martial arts. His innovative techniques, philosophical approach, and dedication to self-improvement continue to inspire and influence generations of martial artists. Bruce Lee had a profound impact on generations of martial arts…
“Attentively devote yourself to the meaning of each individual technique and make sure to apply them according to all possible circumstances.”
Renowned karate master Itosu Anko once wrote; “Attentively devote yourself to the meaning of each individual technique and make sure to apply them according to all possible circumstances.” . It’s very important that practitioners discover and understand underlying karate principles. Many movements have more than one function or expression. Although some motions do only have…
Through my years of training, the only thing I’ve learned is that I don’t know everything.
Martial arts, steeped in rich traditions and diverse styles, have evolved over centuries to become a fundamental part of many cultures. While the pursuit of mastery and personal growth are core tenets, it’s not uncommon to encounter martial artists who exhibit stubbornness when it comes to embracing something different. . One key reason for martial…
Not everyone can be a black belt.
Karate is a commitment – a hard, slow road and a journey full of fear, pain, failure and sacrifice. . It’s a pretty thankless task as the only one to beat is yourself, and nobody likes the stark honesty of self-evaluation. It hurts and getting hit hurts, metaphorically and physically. That’s the truth of it….
Once you learn to QUIT, it becomes a habit. The real training starts, when YOU want to stop.
If your instructor PUSHES you. If your instructor DISCIPLINES you. If your instructor DEMANDS the best from you, ALL the time… Then he or she truly CARES….. . Life presents us with a multitude of choices and challenges, often leaving us torn between our capabilities and limitations. The phrases “I can” and “I can’t” shape…
“If you find yourself in a fair fight, your tactics suck.”
Sport karate, offers numerous benefits, physical fitness, aesthetics, discipline, and sportsmanship. However, it is important to recognize that sport karate is not the ideal choice for individuals seeking practical self-defense skills. . Now before the comments start, in the 1970’s and ’80’s, sport karate was my main interest, I’m just trying to help some practitioners…
“Don’t raise your voice, improve your argument.”
Personally I believe that analyzing kata and its applications from a logical or common sense perspective makes a compelling case for the best way to approach and dissect principles and techniques. . There is of course value in aesthetic, sporting and cultural aspects of karate and its kata – but for me, my main interest…