(Approx 2 minute 40 second read) Many people believe that learning a martial art is the key to protecting themselves. While many martial arts evolved as self-defense systems, they were developed to suit the needs of people in specific times and places. But how well do these systems translate to the practical, modern-day world? Do…
Month: October 2024
Karate is in the mind. Karate is in the heart. Karate is never about what you are wearing around your waist.
(Approx 2 minute 25 second read) A few months back, a Nidan we knew contacted us after his instructor passed away and asked if we could grade him to Sandan. . From the outset, I had reservations. Even though he was part of our US association through his instructor, I didn’t know this person, he…
A “Haiku” just for those who think my articles are too long.
In response to a suggestion that my articles are too long and should be more like a “Reader’s Digest” version, I’ve been inspired to explore a more streamlined approach to martial arts wisdom. After all, why spend time diving deep into complex concepts when brevity is so much more…enlightening? A “Haiku” just for you. ….
Navigating Ignorance and Driving Blind: Martial Arts Lessons from the Road.
(Approx 2 minute 30 second read) Personally, I believe that some instructors are unknowingly teaching in the wrong context or teaching ineffective techniques. This issue isn’t just about ignorance – it’s about people who, overestimate their competence. . We all know about the McDojo, but there’s another problem: instructors who, often unknowingly, create a dangerous…
The Cultural Clash in the Dojo: The Hidden Customs Within the Martial Arts – Do Students Want It?
(Approx 2 minute 30 second read) One of my friends recently posted a video asking his students “what was karate for?”. Without exception, all of them said self-defense. If this is the case then are the cultural aspects of traditional karate irrelevant? . Many traditional martial arts schools offer more than just self-defense and fighting…
Not All Dojos Are Created Equal: When Expertise Is Just an Illusion.
(Approx 2 minute 30 second read) Imagine the fear. You’ve been training at your dojo for a while, growing confident in your abilities and trusting in your sensei. But slowly, a gnawing doubt creeps in – a feeling deep in your gut that something isn’t right. . You start to notice things you didn’t before….
It’s Like a Finger Pointing to the Moon: Don’t Focus on ‘Saying OSU!’ or You’ll Miss All That Heavenly Glory.
(Approx 2 minute 20 second read) “Osu”, a term I have written about before, used often by some and bemoaned by others, from beginners to seasoned practitioners. For many, it symbolizes perseverance, respect, or acknowledgment, and it’s often used as a greeting, a response to an instruction, or even as a show of enthusiasm. ….
The Courage to Ask: Breaking the Silence and Finding Value in Questions During Training.
(Approx 2 minute 30 second read) Respect for your teacher is paramount and following instructions are instilled from day one. But does this culture of respect sometimes stifle learning? Could unwavering reverence prevent students from fully understanding what they’re taught? . I bring this up because, when I started training in 1974 under a Japanese…
The Evolution of Karate: Tradition and the Search for Authenticity.
(Approx 2 minute 45 second read) Recently, I received a message about an article I had written, which was about the karate being taught after WWII and propagated across the US and to the rest of the world. . The message said that their karate was immune to superficiality because they had regular visits back…
In every challenge that age brings, we find the opportunity to redefine strength – not as brute force, but as the clarity of thought and spirit.
(Approx 2 minute 25 second read) Recently, I had a conversation with one of my senior students. Both of us are in our sixties now, reflecting on what happens when time begins to slow us down. As martial artists, we know that no amount of training can stop the effects of aging. We’ve gained wisdom…
Commitment is the Key: Be There, Be Better, Have Passion.
Students today give up too easily. They expect everything to be perfect or effortless, and when it’s not, they quit. That’s a mistake. Sometimes you have to take a step back to move forward. . The most important thing is this: whatever you decide to do, take it seriously and do your best. . As…
Parting Ways: A Natural Turning Point in Training?
(Approx 1 minute 40 second read) Many instructors pour their heart and soul into their dojo, some with little or no financial gain. Yet, this dedication is frequently overlooked. A good instructor’s mission is to help students improve and grow in their martial arts journey – not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. . For…