(Approx 1 minute 40 second read) Imagine the massive advantage you’d have if you knew what your opponent was going to do before it happened. It would allow you to react instantaneously, adapting to their moves with precision. . A person’s unconscious, instant reaction to a stimulus is known as a reflex. If you touched…
Tag: Zanshin
When ‘Real’ Karate Isn’t Quite Real Enough: Static Steps or Dynamic Survival?
(Approx 2 minute 40 second read) I mentioned in an article recently that an Okinawan teacher showed his black belts a series of techniques meant to showcase ‘real’ karate. Unfortunately, expectations are never as exciting as reality. . Firstly, someone said to me in the comments section, “Can you provide a link to the video?”…
Inhale Presence, Exhale Tension: Grounded in Breath, Connected in Spirit.
(Approx 2 minute 25 second read) There are all sorts of great tips for improving your karate, but for many, the issue isn’t technical; it’s about presence. It’s not that you need to be perfect, but rather that your mind isn’t fully there. . You might find yourself distracted or tense, caught up in your…
Practical Self-Defense: Ditch the Drama and Embrace Reality. Sitting Pretty or Prepared?
(Approx 2 minute 10 second read) It’s astonishing to me that I need to clarify this further, something as straightforward as practical self-defense, yet here we are. Once again, the armchair enthusiasts seem unable to grasp the situation with any common sense. . To set the record straight: regarding the article where I was asked…
Mastering the Art of Terminology or Kicking Your Way to the Bathroom? (you have to read the article)
(Approx 2 minute 25 second read) It’s common practice to use Japanese terminology in the dojo. And in my opinion, it’s also important that you get it right. . There are so many posts on social media where an instructor has posted their Japanese-to-English terminology where there are glaring errors for all to see. ….
Context: The Key to Effective Training Across Disciplines.
(Approx 2 minute 45 second read) I recently wrote a couple of articles about going to the ground in self-defense. Many of the comments said that you’d better know how to fight on the ground because most altercations end up there. . Yes, you may end up on the ground, and it’s imperative you drill…
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. ….
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…
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…