I was fourteen years old when I began practicing karate. At the time, I had no clear idea of what I was looking for. . Behind the repetition, the discipline, and the physical effort, I was told that there was a path concerned with understanding oneself as much as learning technique. . The karate available […]
More Than One Thing: What Training Was Supposed to Be. Read More »
(Approx 2 minute 25 second read) I was at school in the 1970s when a friend of mine managed to sneak into the cinema to watch Enter the Dragon, the iconic Bruce Lee movie. . The next day he was so enthusiastic about it that, even though I had never heard of Bruce Lee or
Was Bruce Lee Right? Why Knowledge Alone Isn’t Enough. Read More »
(Approx 2 minute 50 second read) Whenever I write an article about real-world self-defense, the comments seem to explode into “my style is the best”. . I don’t think a lot of these people actually train themselves – maybe keyboard warriors, maybe just inexperienced – but these comments usually revolve around one style in particular:
(Approx 1 minute 30 second read) “If you know the Way broadly, you will see it in everything.” – Miyamoto Musashi . Someone commented on one of my articles saying that practical karate people are just looking for moves in MMA to match what they do. . Actually, no. That’s the wrong way around. You
“If you know the Way broadly, you will see it in everything.” Read More »
(Approx 2 minute 20 second read) Yue Fei, a legendary general from the Song Dynasty, is a figure whose legacy resonates across cultures and martial traditions. . Though Yue Fei lived in 12th-century China, his story symbolizes universal martial virtues. He is remembered for his loyalty, discipline, and moral integrity – principles echoed throughout the
Echoes of Loyalty: The Honor and Discipline of Yue Fei. Read More »
(Approx 1 minute 50 second read) Why, in a discipline meant to promote humility, respect, and self-discipline, do we find ourselves so divided and broken? . Perhaps it stems from the loyalty practitioners develop toward their chosen style, instructor, or dojo. While this sense of belonging is a powerful motivator, it can easily transform into
The Divisiveness in the Martial Arts: Why Are We So Divided and Broken? Read More »
(Approx 2 minute 50 second read) If you’ve read my articles, you probably know by now that I prefer my karate to be practical and pragmatic. Yet, I constantly hear from people claiming that Kyokushin is the best martial art – the strongest style that everyone should learn. After all, Kyokushin means ‘the ultimate truth,’
No One Art Is the Best: So Stop Bragging, and Start Learning. Read More »
(1 minute 35 second read) Have you ever encountered someone who seems completely stuck in their ways? Someone who refuses to consider any viewpoint but their own? That’s the hallmark of a closed mind. . And boy, have I had a few of these in the comments on my articles lately. . A closed-minded person
“Know the cause of your ignorance.” Read More »
(1 minute 25 second read) Do you ever experience those fluttering butterflies? That exhilarating sensation that arises when you’re eagerly anticipating something you’re about to do or witness? . The martial arts conjures up images of stoic composure, unwavering focus, and nerves of steel. . Yet, beneath the outward calm of experienced practitioners, often lies
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
It’s my belief that it is good to be curious to try and acquire knowledge about everything around us. . Eagerness and passion develops curiosity which is hugely important in the martial arts. It’s how we analyze and understand our karate at a deeper level. If you are the type of practitioner who believes in
Understanding lineage, and the traditions that have been passed down over generations is valuable and meaningful, but remaining too faithful to tradition can be a problem. . Blindly following tradition can lead to staleness. Protecting tradition is to go forward. The part you protect and the part you innovate has to move in parallel. Otherwise,
“Research your own experience, absorb what is useful…” Read More »
