(Approx 2 minute read) A recent comment proudly shared stated that he would use a ‘kingeri’ – a kick to the groin – to “concentrate his attention” in a self-defense situation, apparently his goto technique. . Many self-defense courses, especially for women, often start with this technique. However, they’re not men’s kryptonite, and while it…
Tag: MMA
Beyond the Dance: Kata, A Connection to History, A Method for Today.
The comments on my articles are fascinating; “ditch the dance, modern systems don’t need or use kata, traditional karate is ineffective anyway”. . Traditional karate is not ineffective. The misconception that it’s ineffective often stems from the assumption that “traditional” refers only to the modern, stylized versions seen in tournaments and competition. But traditional karate…
When the Guard Fails: The Importance of Proactive Defense.
(Approx 2 minute 15 second read) I remember a little while ago when a student from a different style decided to join us. While going through several drills, he consistently placed his hands on either side of his head in a high guard position. He was used to being shouted at to ‘keep your hands…
Not a Stolen Legacy: The Reality of Shared Techniques.
(Approx 2 minute 10 second read) In a recent comment on my article discussing modern techniques in traditional martial arts, I used the example of knee strikes in karate. The commenter claimed that this technique is exclusive to Muay Thai and accused me of stealing its legacy. . This claim not only dismisses the evidence…
From Ritual to Reality: The Modern MMA Techniques Revealed in Kata.
(Approx 2 minute 30 second read) Kata are an essential part of the foundation of your karate practice. They are what make karate different. . In the years since competition became all the rage in martial arts, and kata started becoming a performance art instead of combat training, or a way to pass the next…
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…
Kata is not merely a sequence of movements; it’s a timeless link to the wisdom of pioneering masters.
(Approx 2 minute 32 second read) Kata is often viewed as outdated, irrelevant, and, from many comments I receive, totally misunderstood. . It’s important to remember that kata were created in a time without social media, video, hardly any photography, and no books or artwork on the subject. . Most teachings occurred behind closed doors…
“There is a code of honor and if you don’t respect that code, you should be out of martial arts.”
(1 minute 50 second read) Once again, the concept of respect has reared its ugly head. . Someone left a brief two word comment on one of my articles. I won’t delve into the specifics of the conversation or name the individual involved. . However, in response, I asked several questions to gain clarity on…
The best fight is the one you avoid. So don’t start a fight you can’t finish, but if you do, finish it.
(1 minute 30 second read) If you’re like most people, you probably hope you’ll never face a self-defense situation. But being prepared is key. . Self-defense is a critical skill, but it’s important to understand it’s not about winning a fight. It’s about neutralizing a threat and escaping safely. . Those that keep reminding me…
“Without context words and actions have no meaning at all.”
(1 minute 45 second read) “Without context words and actions have no meaning at all.” . This is a major problem today where so many individuals, many without experience of other martial arts, confuse their own ‘way’ as the one and only ‘way’. . Cricket is an amazing sport, but would a cricket player excel…
Chaos Training: Building Confidence Under Pressure.
(2 minute read) Some of the comments on my articles recently seem to be producing quite a range of interesting views. . One such comment seemed to suggest that the methods of pressure testing I mentioned in an article; – “to include in your practice pressure testing; unknown wild attacks, pushing, pulling, grabbing, verbal escalation,…
Master the toolbox, not just the hammer….
(1 minute 40 second read) Imagine a toolbox filled with tools; wrenches, hammers, screwdrivers, these tools can fix many things….. but how you use them depends on the job. . The martial arts are like those tools – different methods have different goals. . Karate, Judo, Jiu-jitsu, MMA, Boxing – these are all different fighting…