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…
Tag: Mind
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…
Think Twice: Before You Throw a Punch, Learn Restraint When Fighting Is All You Know.
(Approx 2 minute 15 second read) If you know me or have read my articles, you probably already know that I prefer my karate to be practical and pragmatic. But on occasion, I write from a more philosophical side, aiming to add some balance and hopefully encourage readers to think and question. . It’s a…
“Any martial art without proper training of the mind turns into beastly behavior.”
Reflection: where we’ve been, where we are, even perhaps where we’re going. . Your body can stand almost anything. It’s your mind you have to convince. The biggest and toughest opponent you will ever face? Yourself. . Always see contemplation on your actions as an opportunity to improve. . Perhaps the martial arts are less…
“So I got no illusions about boxing, none. This is a brutal business. It’s the hurt business. But I’m a fighter – that’s all I can do.”
(Approx 2 minute 15 second read) The martial arts is about more than just fighting. It’s about learning to use your mind as your greatest weapon, staying calm in difficult situations, and making clear, rational decisions under pressure. Fighting, kicking, and punching are part of it, but you should strive to be much more than…
Just Relax! (Said No One Who Was Actually Relaxed).
(Approx 1 minute 40 second read) Karate, at its core, is a discipline built on efficiency – achieving maximum power and fluidity through minimal exertion. . A student recently commented while watching me demonstrate a movement, “We have a long way to go.” He was referring to how relaxed I seemed, compared to the tension…
Karate for Kids: Beyond Self-Defense – Building Confidence, Resilience and Responsibility
(Approx 1 minute 55 second read) One of the most heart-wrenching challenges for any parent is watching their child become the victim of bullying. It can leave parents feeling powerless, desperately searching for ways to protect their child. Many turn to kids’ martial arts classes, hoping it will equip their child with the skills to…
Fighting without compassion is just violence, fighting with it is true martial arts.
(Approx 2 minute 25 second read) The martial arts seen by many as being centered around combat and physical confrontation. . It’s in the name, after all – yet that’s only a small fraction of the truth. . When people think of martial arts, they often imagine aggressive individuals wanting to fight. But for those…
Staying the Course: Commitment, Resilience, Recovery, and No Shortcuts.
(Approx 1 minute 40 second read) Anyone teaching martial arts knows a student who talks about wanting to train, but can’t manage to show up on time to practice, or may not show up at all. . When someone doesn’t show up, they’ll certainly have an excuse of some sort. What’s that student telling us…
Educating with Insight: Ensuring Depth and Authenticity in Karate Teaching.
(Approx 2 minute 35 second read) Itosu Anko was in his 70s when he finalized the Pinan kata. Those forms were simplified and organized into a curriculum suitable for instructing larger groups, particularly within the Okinawan school system. Karate was to be promoted as a way to encourage physical education, discipline, and moral character in…
Challenging Conformity: The Power of Questioning What You Know to Discover Genuine Understanding.
(Approx 2 minute 25 second read) Recently, someone sent me a message with the abrupt opener, “Who are you?” – not the most polite way to start a conversation. After some back-and-forth, and after I pointed out the rudeness of his approach, I learned he was upset about a quote I had used in one…
The Divisiveness in the Martial Arts: Why Are We So Divided and Broken?
(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…