(Approx 2 minute read) “What style do you practice?” I get asked this question when anyone learns that I practice karate. It’s also one of the first questions asked when anyone calls or messages about joining us. . While the question is understandable, it can sometimes be frustrating. It can feel like the focus is…
Month: July 2024
The Balanced Warrior: Find Humility in Your Training.
(Approx 1 minute 44 second read) Many people, at some point in their lives, have been victimized, exploited, or bullied in some form or another. . Whether this relates to being bullied as a child, an adult being singled out at the workplace, bullying online, or in more serious cases, an individual being mugged on…
If Your First Response to This Scenario is a Hook Kick to the Back of the Head, You Need a Serious Reality Check!
(Approx 2 minute 20 second read) Recently, I wrote an article in response to the use of ‘ura mawashi geri’ (hook kick) as a self-defense technique to a clothing grab. In response to the article I received a comment from the person suggesting its use, enthusiastically endorsing its effectiveness. “I have used it successfully in…
Break the Cycle: Elevate Your Karate with the Power of Mindful Training.
(Approx 2 minute read) If your mind is full of thoughts and doubts, you are too busy thinking and not able to focus on what you are doing, perhaps unable to practice correctly. . I have witnessed students, and instructors, practice their techniques, over and over, one after another, their mind not really in to…
What’s in a Dojo name? Everything, if it’s chosen with respect and a deep understanding of its significance.
(1 minute 45 second read) What’s in a Dojo Name? . Recently, I was ‘told’ that I should not have chosen the name “Shuri Dojo” for my dojo. It is not on Okinawa, after all. Naming your dojo this way is wrong. . What? . There are some really good associations and schools out there…
Many envision self-defense as a “street fight”, like an MMA bout…
(Approx 2 minute 50 second read) I have nothing against combat sports – I used to compete myself. They’re entertaining, and I respect many of these accomplished athletes. But no matter how brutal your sport is, it’s still a sport. There are certain realities which must not be ignored. . Context. . What’s important is…
“Teachers Open The Door, But You Must Enter By Yourself.”
(Approx 1 minute 32 second read) The proverb “Teachers open the door, but you must enter by yourself” serves as a powerful reminder of the essential role teachers play in your lives. While they provide you with knowledge, guidance, and support, it is ultimately up to you to take responsibility for your own learning and…
The Digital Dojo: From Screen to Mat.
(Approx 1 minute 55 second read) In today’s digital age, YouTube offers a wealth of information, including numerous martial arts tutorials. While these videos can be a valuable resource, they cannot replace the guidance of a qualified instructor. . Many practitioners turn to YouTube for instant knowledge, which can be helpful for remembering specific techniques…
The Quest for 10th Dan: Recognizing Mastery and Dedication.
(Approx 2 minute 20 second read) In the martial arts, achieving the highest rank is a testament to an individual’s skill, dedication, and proficiency. The 10th Dan represents the pinnacle of accomplishment. . However, the awarding of the 10th Dan has become a subject of intense criticism and controversy. . Perhaps one of the reasons…
From Dojo to Reality: Why Context Matters.
(Approx 2 minute 26 second read) We all know some extraordinary kickers who would undoubtedly advocate for using their kicks in many self-defense scenarios. However, the reality is that most people do not possess such exceptional kicking abilities. . Recently, I observed an instructor teaching ‘ura mawashi geri’ (reverse roundhouse kick) as a self-defense technique…
The Myth of the Original Kata: Understanding Kata Variations.
(Approx 1 minute 55 second read) For many karate-ka, the allure of practicing an ‘original’ kata, untouched by time, is undeniable. But what if ‘original’ itself is a moving target? . Today, many instructors claim their kata are pure, unchanged, and passed down from a legendary master. Yet, what exactly constitutes ‘original’? . The truth…
From Body Blows to Head Shots: The Importance of Predictable Responses.
(Approx 2 minute read) Have you ever wondered why so many techniques in kata appear to be aimed at chudan level? . Guess what? Perhaps they’re not! . Typical bunkai often targets the solar plexus. But what if this isn’t the intended target at all? What if the true purpose is to elicit a predictable…