Matthew, 14, was in remission, but was told by doctors the cancer had returned.
He had trained hard for more than a year and was determined to achieve his belt.
Matthew, who took the exam a week before chemotherapy started, said: "I decided to do it because I wouldn't have the energy levels to do it during the treatment plus it would take twice as long and I would have had to work twice as hard. I was determined I wanted to get it."
Source
Friday, March 31, 2006
Warrior Arts of the Philippines Museum
"History," said B.L. 'Spunk' Trial, "is written by the victor."
So he's doing something about it.
Trial proposes to create a Warrior Arts of the Philippines Museum in Virginia Beach. Plans call for the museum to document the traditions, dress, weapons and fighting techniques of the country’s estimated 70 ethnic groups.
Source
So he's doing something about it.
Trial proposes to create a Warrior Arts of the Philippines Museum in Virginia Beach. Plans call for the museum to document the traditions, dress, weapons and fighting techniques of the country’s estimated 70 ethnic groups.
Source
Kickboxer Facing Murder Charges
A kickboxer facing murder charges has waived his right to a bail hearing.
The man is accused of killing his girlfriend at a motel in Warwick earlier this month.
Investigators said the woman died from blunt force trauma. Both were in town for a kickboxing tournament the night before.
Source
The man is accused of killing his girlfriend at a motel in Warwick earlier this month.
Investigators said the woman died from blunt force trauma. Both were in town for a kickboxing tournament the night before.
Source
She's Gambling
Another expert... She must be a black belt (aka. deadly).
Story:
Police officer, spouse, mom face gambling charges.
A Richmond police officer, her ex-policeman husband and her mother have been charged with participating in an illegal gambling operation at the mother's Henrico County home.
Weaver, a martial-arts expert, had most recently been assigned to the Drug Enforcement Administration task force.
Source
Story:
Police officer, spouse, mom face gambling charges.
A Richmond police officer, her ex-policeman husband and her mother have been charged with participating in an illegal gambling operation at the mother's Henrico County home.
Weaver, a martial-arts expert, had most recently been assigned to the Drug Enforcement Administration task force.
Source
On Top of His World
Jonathan Cetroni has Down syndrome. He also has a first-degree black belt in karate.
Through his actions, the 24-year-old Dover Township man with Down syndrome challenges those around him to re-examine their expectations.
Source
Through his actions, the 24-year-old Dover Township man with Down syndrome challenges those around him to re-examine their expectations.
Source
Change of Guard
Standing in the ring, Barbara Foley looked from one opponent's belt to the next, analyzing her competition.
Foley, a crossing guard at Garth Elementary, has been practicing the martial art of taekwondo for four years, starting just one week after enrolling her grandson. Although her grandson has taken a new interest in baseball, Foley and her husband have committed themselves to the sport of taekwondo.
The sport has helped Foley lose weight and lower her blood pressure, taught her to physically defend herself and to maintain self-control.
Source
Foley, a crossing guard at Garth Elementary, has been practicing the martial art of taekwondo for four years, starting just one week after enrolling her grandson. Although her grandson has taken a new interest in baseball, Foley and her husband have committed themselves to the sport of taekwondo.
The sport has helped Foley lose weight and lower her blood pressure, taught her to physically defend herself and to maintain self-control.
Source
Black-Belt Granny
How cool! ...Apart from the short span to black belt...
Story:
Mija Kim doesn't like taking medications or gaining weight. So to stay healthy, she signed up for tae kwon do. Except Kim's not your typical student tackling a board-breaking martial art. She's 71.
Most remarkable: Kim recently earned a black belt.
Source
Story:
Mija Kim doesn't like taking medications or gaining weight. So to stay healthy, she signed up for tae kwon do. Except Kim's not your typical student tackling a board-breaking martial art. She's 71.
Most remarkable: Kim recently earned a black belt.
Source
Karate-Teacher Sex Rap KO'd
Prosecutors have dropped 149 counts of sex abuse and other charges against a well-known Staten Island karate teacher accused of repeatedly molesting a pair of female students over two years.
Robert Kim (...) copped a plea to a disorderly conduct charge on the eve of trial yesterday.
Source
Robert Kim (...) copped a plea to a disorderly conduct charge on the eve of trial yesterday.
Source
Not Those Guys!
Politicians in Sarawak (Malaysia) have been warned against employing martial arts exponents for bodyguard duties and crowd control in the coming state election.
Don't do it, said Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Musa Hassan.
Source
Don't do it, said Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Musa Hassan.
Source
Let's Stretch Out
Here's a book on stretcing for the martial arts: "Ultimate Flexibility: A Complete Guide to Stretching for Martial Arts" (by Sang H. Kim)
The book is getting great reviews all over.
"I needed to improve my flexibility but too many of the book were too technical without a direct understanding of why and how. Kim does a good job of showing and explaining how things neeed to be done."
"I've examined a number of other books and was frustrated by their lack of 'completeness' and usability. This is by far the best that I have seen."
"Ultimate Flexibility is a thorough, yet clear and practical guide on how to stretch effectively and enjoyably."
The book is getting great reviews all over.
"I needed to improve my flexibility but too many of the book were too technical without a direct understanding of why and how. Kim does a good job of showing and explaining how things neeed to be done."
"I've examined a number of other books and was frustrated by their lack of 'completeness' and usability. This is by far the best that I have seen."
"Ultimate Flexibility is a thorough, yet clear and practical guide on how to stretch effectively and enjoyably."
What Happened to Dirty?
Capoeira - Dangerous Dancing:
What do you get when you mix martial arts, singing, Portuguese, exotic musical instruments and a whole lot of enthusiasm? Capoeira.
The movement looks simultaneously asthetically pleasing and dangerous. Participants of the club, or capoeristas, throw spinning kicks, jump into no-handed cartwheels and sweep their feet from side to side, shifting their weight as they pulse in and out of low stances.
Source
What do you get when you mix martial arts, singing, Portuguese, exotic musical instruments and a whole lot of enthusiasm? Capoeira.
The movement looks simultaneously asthetically pleasing and dangerous. Participants of the club, or capoeristas, throw spinning kicks, jump into no-handed cartwheels and sweep their feet from side to side, shifting their weight as they pulse in and out of low stances.
Source
Putting Art Back Into Martial Arts?
I know a lot of MA people that will argue (quite articulate too) that in fact there is too much 'art' and too little 'martial' in the martial arts already.
Personally I don't understand any of these views at all.
Why one side? Why not both? How come it has to be either/or - black or white. The martial arts is a rainbow of colors and an endless supply of possibilities. What suites me may not be your cup of tea (hey... poetry! :)
There should me more than enough room for both the K-1's and UFC's of the world, as well as the "deeper" and more esoteric martial arts.
It's quite simple really: Just give other people more space and welcome those who think different than yourself!
Story:
(China reality show puts art back into martial arts)
The monks of China's ancient Shaolin Temple, one of the birthplaces of Chinese martial arts, have teamed up with a television company to make a reality show aimed at unearthing a new Jet Li or Jackie Chan.
The "K-Star Global Chinese Kung Fu Star TV Competition" will give 108 martial artists a chance to show their moves at the famous temple complex in the hills of Henan province with the winners getting a shot at Hollywood stardom.
"People understand the fighting but they don't understand the arts. We want to restore what it really means to be a martial artist. We want to put the art back into martial arts".
Source
Personally I don't understand any of these views at all.
Why one side? Why not both? How come it has to be either/or - black or white. The martial arts is a rainbow of colors and an endless supply of possibilities. What suites me may not be your cup of tea (hey... poetry! :)
There should me more than enough room for both the K-1's and UFC's of the world, as well as the "deeper" and more esoteric martial arts.
It's quite simple really: Just give other people more space and welcome those who think different than yourself!
Story:
(China reality show puts art back into martial arts)
The monks of China's ancient Shaolin Temple, one of the birthplaces of Chinese martial arts, have teamed up with a television company to make a reality show aimed at unearthing a new Jet Li or Jackie Chan.
The "K-Star Global Chinese Kung Fu Star TV Competition" will give 108 martial artists a chance to show their moves at the famous temple complex in the hills of Henan province with the winners getting a shot at Hollywood stardom.
"People understand the fighting but they don't understand the arts. We want to restore what it really means to be a martial artist. We want to put the art back into martial arts".
Source
Thursday, March 30, 2006
Cubs Taekwondo
Cubs find new strength with 'Dr. K' :
Dusty Baker took a cue from the former (Chicago) Cubs manager, looking for ways to help stop the unending flood of injuries that washed away last season.
Baker enlisted the services of Kent Kitagawa, who is a black belt in tae kwon do.
If the program reduces injuries and gets the Cubs to the postseason, Dr. K will get an A -- and maybe a long-term contract.
Source
Dusty Baker took a cue from the former (Chicago) Cubs manager, looking for ways to help stop the unending flood of injuries that washed away last season.
Baker enlisted the services of Kent Kitagawa, who is a black belt in tae kwon do.
If the program reduces injuries and gets the Cubs to the postseason, Dr. K will get an A -- and maybe a long-term contract.
Source
MA Police
I'm not sure if this is a bright move, or a sign that police and authorities leave a little too much power to civilians. In the West we have private security companies, but they - in general - don't have the powers that seem to be given here.
Story:
In an innovative move, martial art masters are joining the police in a southern Chinese city to safeguard social order, the first of its kind in China.
According to the agreement, the 2,500 Kong Fu exercisers with the federation will teach self-defense techniques to the people, participate in patrol missions and assist the police to chase criminals.
Story
Story:
In an innovative move, martial art masters are joining the police in a southern Chinese city to safeguard social order, the first of its kind in China.
According to the agreement, the 2,500 Kong Fu exercisers with the federation will teach self-defense techniques to the people, participate in patrol missions and assist the police to chase criminals.
Story
Martial Art Cults
Are they out there? You bet! I don't know about this Dahn Yoga, but is seems a little fishy if you ask me.
"A supreme leader who drives a bright yellow Hummer and has followers who cry when he enters a room..."
Why don't my students cry when I enter a room? ;-)
Story:
As Monica Demarco drove away from the Dahn Yoga retreat center near Sedona, Arizona, and headed back to Albuquerque in December, she didn't feel the peace the masters had promised. She also hadn't learned martial arts, as promised.
In a Google search of Dahn Yoga, posts comparing the practice with a cult pop up on the first page. "Be careful," warns a posting on yoga.com.
Source
"A supreme leader who drives a bright yellow Hummer and has followers who cry when he enters a room..."
Why don't my students cry when I enter a room? ;-)
Story:
As Monica Demarco drove away from the Dahn Yoga retreat center near Sedona, Arizona, and headed back to Albuquerque in December, she didn't feel the peace the masters had promised. She also hadn't learned martial arts, as promised.
In a Google search of Dahn Yoga, posts comparing the practice with a cult pop up on the first page. "Be careful," warns a posting on yoga.com.
Source
Biology-Jitsu
Recently deceased UC Berkeley professor Nicholas Cozzarelli's research group "discovered that a very important class of antibiotics, the quinolines, act by a jujitsu-like mechanism -- turning the normal function of one of the cell's most essential proteins -- a topoisomerase -- against the cell".
"These antibiotics, and in the same way, some of the most important anti-cancer drugs, turn topoisomerases into cell-suicide machines that break a cell's DNA into fragments."
Source
I guess you could call this Internal Martial Arts? :-)
"These antibiotics, and in the same way, some of the most important anti-cancer drugs, turn topoisomerases into cell-suicide machines that break a cell's DNA into fragments."
Source
I guess you could call this Internal Martial Arts? :-)
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
Future Doctor and MMA Fighter
What David Prestosa learns in medical school next fall may just serve him better than he could ever imagine.
Prestosa, who will graduate from the College of William & Mary in May, has a passion for a new hobby that might require a doctor's services — he likes to fight in mixed martial arts.
Source
Prestosa, who will graduate from the College of William & Mary in May, has a passion for a new hobby that might require a doctor's services — he likes to fight in mixed martial arts.
Source
An Inspirational Japanese Film
Entitled "Aiki", this is a a story about a man who has been wheelchair bound since a motorcycle accident leaves the lower half of his body paralyzed.The film is featuring Japanese actor Kato Haruhiko as Taichi, a fresh boxer who's aiming for the best newcomer's title.
Taichi is distraught when he realizes that he will never be able to achieve his ambition. But a friend introduces him to Aiki Jujutsu.
The master of the school receives Taichi warmly and it is then that he finally begins to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Source
Looking for a Violent Sport?
Seems to me that martial art is the wrong place to look if it's violence you're after. I challenge you to find any sport (golf included) where there is less aimless and senseless violence than the martial arts!
Here's the latest baseball take on you-do-suck (TM): "Gathright didn't use martial arts background in altercation."
"A day after the fracas between Joey Gathright and Julian Tavarez, Gathright's Devil Rays teammates said the Red Sox pitcher was lucky Gathright did not inflict harm on him."
Source
(The only one with a cool head, Gathright, is a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, having studied the Korean martial art from ages 8 to 18, before stopping after he got drafted to play baseball.)
Here's the latest baseball take on you-do-suck (TM): "Gathright didn't use martial arts background in altercation."
"A day after the fracas between Joey Gathright and Julian Tavarez, Gathright's Devil Rays teammates said the Red Sox pitcher was lucky Gathright did not inflict harm on him."
Source
(The only one with a cool head, Gathright, is a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, having studied the Korean martial art from ages 8 to 18, before stopping after he got drafted to play baseball.)
A Fighter With Opinions
Lo and behold! Another fighter with the ability to reflect on politics... Jeff "The Snowman" Monson (UFC fighter - Abu Dhabi Champion, January 2006) has even the guts to spell out how the rest of the world sees things "somewhat" different than the US view.
Story:
JM: The media is just a propaganda machine, spitting out words the government has given them to get the attention of the dull-witted masses: Wmd's, terrorists, insurgents, democracy. When I'm in Japan they have an international newspaper at the hotels. It is shocking to see the difference between unbiased news coverage compared to what we have here in the US.
Source
Story:
JM: The media is just a propaganda machine, spitting out words the government has given them to get the attention of the dull-witted masses: Wmd's, terrorists, insurgents, democracy. When I'm in Japan they have an international newspaper at the hotels. It is shocking to see the difference between unbiased news coverage compared to what we have here in the US.
Source
Accused of Molestations
More bad exposure of the MA:
A 45-year-old Santa Ana martial arts instructor was charged Tuesday with repeatedly molesting two of his students.
Source
A 45-year-old Santa Ana martial arts instructor was charged Tuesday with repeatedly molesting two of his students.
Source
True Spirit and a Fighting Heart
"The technique may be modified, but there's nothing modified about the spirit."
So what, if Jeremy Gregory modifies his karate to perform it in a wheelchair? We all (eventually) modify and adapt techniques anyhow. We start by copying, and then - hopefully and eventually - find our own way.
I personally find this truly inspiring - that someone has the courage and stamina to overcome such obstacles. Way to go Jeremy!
Source
So what, if Jeremy Gregory modifies his karate to perform it in a wheelchair? We all (eventually) modify and adapt techniques anyhow. We start by copying, and then - hopefully and eventually - find our own way.
I personally find this truly inspiring - that someone has the courage and stamina to overcome such obstacles. Way to go Jeremy!
Source
Allround Athlete
Wow! Anthony Figueroa is a Golden Glove boxer, has a black belt in Taekwondo and has an 8-0 record in kickboxing fights.
He was first exposed to boxing 9-year-old. He recently started training four days a week in his garage with his older brother. Two other nights a week, he trains in San Shou.
Respect!
Source
He was first exposed to boxing 9-year-old. He recently started training four days a week in his garage with his older brother. Two other nights a week, he trains in San Shou.
Respect!
Source
From Beating Bullies to Black Belt
I can't help but wonder what possibly can make some people so utterly mean that they attack a young girl "because she is blind"?
Story:
When cruel bullies attacked Maxine Ingram in a school corridor because she was blind, she had two choices - fight or flight.
Luckily for Wales, she chose to hit back.
And 12 years on, the 26-year-old is preparing for her second Paralympic trials as the only British female judo player at her level - sighted or blind.
Source
Story:
When cruel bullies attacked Maxine Ingram in a school corridor because she was blind, she had two choices - fight or flight.
Luckily for Wales, she chose to hit back.
And 12 years on, the 26-year-old is preparing for her second Paralympic trials as the only British female judo player at her level - sighted or blind.
Source
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
Kung-Shoe
Jackie Chan is blaming the stuntman's shoes, and not the stuntman, for sending him to the hospital for a checkup.
Chan, 51, said in a statement on his Web site that was kicked in the chest while shooting his new action-comedy, "Rob-B-Hood" in Hong Kong last Thursday.
Source
More martial arts background, news and updates:
Martial Arts Resources
Chan, 51, said in a statement on his Web site that was kicked in the chest while shooting his new action-comedy, "Rob-B-Hood" in Hong Kong last Thursday.
Source
More martial arts background, news and updates:
Martial Arts Resources
Some Trip
Martial arts expert helps police:
A martial arts expert helped avert a potentially deadly tragedy when a machete-wielding man charged at a city cop in West Edmonton Mall.
"I kind of side-stepped him and right-kicked him above the knees and he went down. He went flying and the knife went flying."
Police said the man was arrested after he was "tripped" by an unidentified mall patron.
Source
Let the police handle it- isn't that what we're taught...?
A martial arts expert helped avert a potentially deadly tragedy when a machete-wielding man charged at a city cop in West Edmonton Mall.
"I kind of side-stepped him and right-kicked him above the knees and he went down. He went flying and the knife went flying."
Police said the man was arrested after he was "tripped" by an unidentified mall patron.
Source
Let the police handle it- isn't that what we're taught...?
Judo for Maddox
It seems that Angelina Jolie has enrolled her four year old son Maddox in Judo in Paris. Smart woman!
Story:
Hollywood star Angelina Jolie not only decided to enrol her four-year old son Maddox for judo lessons recently, but also showed him some of her moves to help him understand the French instructor's lessons better.
According to a source, Jolie enrolled Maddox to learn some judo lessons near her apartment in France after she decided that being cooped up at home all day long was not good for her tiny tot.
Source
Story:
Hollywood star Angelina Jolie not only decided to enrol her four-year old son Maddox for judo lessons recently, but also showed him some of her moves to help him understand the French instructor's lessons better.
According to a source, Jolie enrolled Maddox to learn some judo lessons near her apartment in France after she decided that being cooped up at home all day long was not good for her tiny tot.
Source
Quaker and Aikidoka
Personally I don't find this strange at all - having taught all kinds of people for 25 plus years. Maybe some people still think about martial arts only as fighting and violence?
Story:
People are sometimes surprised to find out that although I’m a Quaker and a pacifist, I study a martial art. I hold a black belt in aikido, which focuses not on attacking others, but on defending oneself by redirecting or otherwise neutralizing an attacker’s force, transforming the situation from conflict to harmony. The many connections between peace/nonviolence work and aikido are fodder for a whole other essay, if not a book. But recent events make me want to look at one question in particular.
It’s one thing to be able to defend one’s own self from attack—but how do you respond when the subject of the attack isn’t oneself, but someone else?
Source
Story:
People are sometimes surprised to find out that although I’m a Quaker and a pacifist, I study a martial art. I hold a black belt in aikido, which focuses not on attacking others, but on defending oneself by redirecting or otherwise neutralizing an attacker’s force, transforming the situation from conflict to harmony. The many connections between peace/nonviolence work and aikido are fodder for a whole other essay, if not a book. But recent events make me want to look at one question in particular.
It’s one thing to be able to defend one’s own self from attack—but how do you respond when the subject of the attack isn’t oneself, but someone else?
Source
Taking Stress Out of Test
This fifth-grade teacher is helping students to get ready for the state's standardized mathematics and reading tests - using tai chi to reduse stress.
Story:
Fifth-grader Trevor Thome said the test-taking has been a lot easier this year because of the exercise sessions.
Source
Story:
Fifth-grader Trevor Thome said the test-taking has been a lot easier this year because of the exercise sessions.
Source
I Like These Guys!
Now, this is a family of my liking. Any reference to Peter Sellers, Clouseau and the possibility to get clobbert by close friends and family... I like :-)
As a friend and great teacher use to say: "You don't have to be mad to do martial arts - but it helps!"
Story:
In the past few months, our home has become like something out of a Peter Sellers movie. You never know when you're going to get chopped.
My wife started it by signing me up for karate, reawakening an obsession from the past. Shelby was without a hobby at the time, so she got signed up too. Dayna, a natural gymnast, can catch on to just about anything and goes right along.
Source
As a friend and great teacher use to say: "You don't have to be mad to do martial arts - but it helps!"
Story:
In the past few months, our home has become like something out of a Peter Sellers movie. You never know when you're going to get chopped.
My wife started it by signing me up for karate, reawakening an obsession from the past. Shelby was without a hobby at the time, so she got signed up too. Dayna, a natural gymnast, can catch on to just about anything and goes right along.
Source
If You Ever Feel Old
Do you ever feel that age is getting to you - not quite jumping about like you used to? At least I know I do - the knees are weaker and perfect eysight is also a thing of the past.
Anyhow - it's no excuse to stop working out. There's always a form of martial art to dive into (or at least walk slowly.. :)
Story:
"It's mandatory at my age to exercise," Cramer said. "I'm 88, but I'm going for 100."
If Cramer lives that long, he'll have been a tai chi practitioner for well over four decades.
Source
Anyhow - it's no excuse to stop working out. There's always a form of martial art to dive into (or at least walk slowly.. :)
Story:
"It's mandatory at my age to exercise," Cramer said. "I'm 88, but I'm going for 100."
If Cramer lives that long, he'll have been a tai chi practitioner for well over four decades.
Source
Monday, March 27, 2006
Not All Drugs Are Created Equal
UK (Northern Ireland) -- Virtually every day between the age of nine and 29, Shane McCaffrey faced an excruciating pain barrier.
And little over four years ago the martial arts enthusiast from County Antrim struggled to complete a single press-up.
Wracked with pain from psoriatic arthritis, the 34-year-old had become frustrated and depressed.
Then, an unexpected lifeline - in the shape of revolutionary new treatment called Remicade.
Source
And little over four years ago the martial arts enthusiast from County Antrim struggled to complete a single press-up.
Wracked with pain from psoriatic arthritis, the 34-year-old had become frustrated and depressed.
Then, an unexpected lifeline - in the shape of revolutionary new treatment called Remicade.
Source
Age: No Excuse
Lorraine Kovar and Yvonne Boyd look like elegant ladies who lunch, but on Tuesday and Thursday nights, they're elegant ladies who punch ... and block and kick and let out shouts that should make anyone think twice about messing with either of them.
They are the reigning karate grannies and training buddies at Kovars Karate Center in Carmichael. Kovar is 79 and Boyd is 70.
"We have so much fun," Boyd says. "I think we bring a sort of wisdom to it."
Source
More about the martial arts:
www.your-martial-arts-resources.com
They are the reigning karate grannies and training buddies at Kovars Karate Center in Carmichael. Kovar is 79 and Boyd is 70.
"We have so much fun," Boyd says. "I think we bring a sort of wisdom to it."
Source
More about the martial arts:
www.your-martial-arts-resources.com
Sunday, March 26, 2006
Goodbye Black Belt
Some teachers in England are changing the words of the nursery rhyme "Baa, Baa, Black Sheep" to "Baa, Baa Rainbow Sheep" to avoid offending anyone. I wish I was kidding, but it's true.
So, what's going to happen to all the other "black" words, when a reference to a black sheep is somehow seen as racist...?
I guess we have to kiss our black belts goodbye, along with other OBVIOUS racist words such as black eyes, black beens, black bears, black-outs, blackberries, blackjacks, Black Forest, blackbirds, black widows, black giants and blacksmiths.
Not to mention the band Black Sabbath (how about Really Dark Sabbath?). I would like to hear Ozzy's view on this absolutely BRILLIANT suggestion!
Oh, and if you happen to know some of these PC masterminds - would you please tell them to get a life?
Rainbow belts anyone? I think I have to lie down now before I get sick.
The Diaper-Dan (TM) brigade will love it though. "Yippie, more colors, no more black! I want my rainbow belt!"
So, what's going to happen to all the other "black" words, when a reference to a black sheep is somehow seen as racist...?
I guess we have to kiss our black belts goodbye, along with other OBVIOUS racist words such as black eyes, black beens, black bears, black-outs, blackberries, blackjacks, Black Forest, blackbirds, black widows, black giants and blacksmiths.
Not to mention the band Black Sabbath (how about Really Dark Sabbath?). I would like to hear Ozzy's view on this absolutely BRILLIANT suggestion!
Oh, and if you happen to know some of these PC masterminds - would you please tell them to get a life?
Rainbow belts anyone? I think I have to lie down now before I get sick.
The Diaper-Dan (TM) brigade will love it though. "Yippie, more colors, no more black! I want my rainbow belt!"
Acclaimed Tai Chi Book
A new Tai Chi book: 'Taijiquan: Through the Western Gate' by Rick Barrett seems to be getting great reviews:
"This book does a great job of clearly explaining many of the principles of tai chi and manages to avoid the mystical without losing the mystery."
"This is a mind-blasting journey that goes straight to the heart and soul of Taijiquan."
"An indispensable guidebook for every martial artist, (...)"
"This book does a great job of clearly explaining many of the principles of tai chi and manages to avoid the mystical without losing the mystery."
"This is a mind-blasting journey that goes straight to the heart and soul of Taijiquan."
"An indispensable guidebook for every martial artist, (...)"
MBA: Mixed Baseball Art
Rudy Seanez mixes pro baseball with top level chute (or shoot - as it is properly named) fighting.
Story:
Rudy Seanez is about as wide as he is tall, that's including the boots that could double as dumbbells.
Forget that he looks more "Road House" than big league clubhouse, Rudy Seanez is a nice guy — a nice guy that could take you, and likely most of his teammates, apart.
Source
Story:
Rudy Seanez is about as wide as he is tall, that's including the boots that could double as dumbbells.
Forget that he looks more "Road House" than big league clubhouse, Rudy Seanez is a nice guy — a nice guy that could take you, and likely most of his teammates, apart.
Source
A True Fighter
Every time I start to believe I'm sort of tough (yes, it does happen), it's quite a reality check to read about people like Monica Albright. Some people have a fighting spirit that is simply beyond words.
And what do we do? Complain that the bus is late, or that we have a sore knee, or that we have to go to work every morning, or that someone took our place in the line...?
Story:
"She's got a spirit that can't be broken."
On May 7, the day before Mother's Day last year, Monica Albright and her mother were in an auto accident in which their vehicle exploded. Monica's mother died in the accident. More than 80 percent of Monica's body was burned. She lost both legs, and the fingers of her left hand had to be removed.
Less than a year later, she's walking again and has a positive outlook on her life and what the future may bring.
After seeing an article about a person getting into martial arts after losing their legs, Monica has decided that she too wants to get back into practicing her martial arts skills. She now can see that nothing can hold her back from accomplishing her dreams.
Source
And what do we do? Complain that the bus is late, or that we have a sore knee, or that we have to go to work every morning, or that someone took our place in the line...?
Story:
"She's got a spirit that can't be broken."
On May 7, the day before Mother's Day last year, Monica Albright and her mother were in an auto accident in which their vehicle exploded. Monica's mother died in the accident. More than 80 percent of Monica's body was burned. She lost both legs, and the fingers of her left hand had to be removed.
Less than a year later, she's walking again and has a positive outlook on her life and what the future may bring.
After seeing an article about a person getting into martial arts after losing their legs, Monica has decided that she too wants to get back into practicing her martial arts skills. She now can see that nothing can hold her back from accomplishing her dreams.
Source
Taiko This!
Jim Battles has built his own Taiko drums - now he only need some people to help him play them. Hopefully it's true what he says: 'If you build them, they will drum'.
Story:
Taiko appeals to Battles for several reasons:
There's a martial-arts connection. He's a black belt in tae kwon do, a form-based discipline, and taiko drumming is similar in style and spirit. You often drum out of stances based on martial arts.
Taiko's roots are in communal celebrations, meaning that one doesn't necessarily need a great deal of experience. A passion to learn, curiosity and dedication will get you an audition.
He loves hitting really big drums as hard as possible. It's fun, and that's a recurring theme in his Synchopaths manifesto, which references influences as diverse as punk rock, avant-garde musician Laurie Anderson and Kodo.
Source
Story:
Taiko appeals to Battles for several reasons:
There's a martial-arts connection. He's a black belt in tae kwon do, a form-based discipline, and taiko drumming is similar in style and spirit. You often drum out of stances based on martial arts.
Taiko's roots are in communal celebrations, meaning that one doesn't necessarily need a great deal of experience. A passion to learn, curiosity and dedication will get you an audition.
He loves hitting really big drums as hard as possible. It's fun, and that's a recurring theme in his Synchopaths manifesto, which references influences as diverse as punk rock, avant-garde musician Laurie Anderson and Kodo.
Source
Jet Li to Face Lawsuit
Chinese Kung Fu star Jet Li may have to appear in a Chinese court next month after his name was added to the list of those being sued over his latest movie Fearless.
The film is a biography of a real Chinese Kung Fu hero, Huo Yuanjia, which is the name of the movie in Chinese. Huo who died 96 years ago is still revered in China and the rest of Asia.
Source
The film is a biography of a real Chinese Kung Fu hero, Huo Yuanjia, which is the name of the movie in Chinese. Huo who died 96 years ago is still revered in China and the rest of Asia.
Source
Police: Martial Arts Takedown
I really hope this drug dealing teenager reflects on how close he was to being shot and quite possibly killed.
Story:
In the darkness of East Stuart early Wednesday, Schaubel made the split-second decision to use martial arts instead of his gun to wrestle the 17-year-old suspect to the ground.
It was a peaceful arrest praised by fellow officers who said Schaubel is one of the exceptional cops with the training and confidence needed to pull off such a maneuver safely.
Source
Story:
In the darkness of East Stuart early Wednesday, Schaubel made the split-second decision to use martial arts instead of his gun to wrestle the 17-year-old suspect to the ground.
It was a peaceful arrest praised by fellow officers who said Schaubel is one of the exceptional cops with the training and confidence needed to pull off such a maneuver safely.
Source
Ultimate Assignment
If the Ultimate Fighting Championship gets any more legit, they'll be asking fans who pay $49.95 for the pay-per-view for a urine specimen.
The once no-holds-barred mixed martial arts sport that is now legal in 20 states took another giant step toward mainstream respectability this week by making Nevada State Athletic Commission Executive Director Marc Ratner an offer he couldn't refuse.
Source
The once no-holds-barred mixed martial arts sport that is now legal in 20 states took another giant step toward mainstream respectability this week by making Nevada State Athletic Commission Executive Director Marc Ratner an offer he couldn't refuse.
Source
Superior Instructor?
USA -- Gustavo Aragon is Pima County's newest Superior Court judge.
He has done extensive pro bono work - public service - and is an assistant scoutmaster for the Boy Scouts of America and an instructor in martial arts, according to Napolitano's office.
Source
He has done extensive pro bono work - public service - and is an assistant scoutmaster for the Boy Scouts of America and an instructor in martial arts, according to Napolitano's office.
Source
A Kalari Take on Shakespeare
William Shakespeare gets an Indian colour and feel as a multi-lingual Anglo-Indian theatre production blends a work of the 16th century genius with Indian theatrical and cultural elements ranging from Bharatnatyam to Kalaripayattu and even Manipuri dance.
"The vigorous dance movements and the use of Kalaripayattu, which is actually a martial art, gave the production a kind of energy that is usually not present in Western theatre. But it has helped in highlighting the work of Shakespeare better."
Source
"The vigorous dance movements and the use of Kalaripayattu, which is actually a martial art, gave the production a kind of energy that is usually not present in Western theatre. But it has helped in highlighting the work of Shakespeare better."
Source
Indian Actor Does Kalari
Think twice before getting into a scrap with Kannada actor Vijay Raghavendra. The superfit star can not only wield a sword with surprising ease, he can also kick butt using his newly-learnt kalaripayattu moves.
Having trained in this Kerala martial art for his upcoming period film, Kallu Arali Hoovagi, Vijay can now proudly say that he's the south's equivalent of Jackie Chan, or Akshay Kumar, for that matter.
Source
Having trained in this Kerala martial art for his upcoming period film, Kallu Arali Hoovagi, Vijay can now proudly say that he's the south's equivalent of Jackie Chan, or Akshay Kumar, for that matter.
Source
Saturday, March 25, 2006
Graceful Capoeira
Graceful capoeira is a cultural treasure:
Pairing off, they engage in something unlike other martial arts. This isn't sparring. Blows aren't landed — not on purpose, anyhow. Instead, capoeira players describe what they do as a conversation.
Source
Pairing off, they engage in something unlike other martial arts. This isn't sparring. Blows aren't landed — not on purpose, anyhow. Instead, capoeira players describe what they do as a conversation.
Source
Free Aikido Changing Students' Lives
There are so many of these stories about inspiration, change, spirit, kindness and human endurance.
Every one of them tell me about the endless possibilities within the martial arts, and reminds me of what I see as truly great about it.
Personal change is not *the* true meaning of martial arts, as there are many ways, many answers and many reasons.
Story:
He was overweight and plagued by a short temper. Then he started going to J.D. Paul's free Aikido classes.
"The first night he went, when he came home, he was like, ‘I love it. I'm going to do this for the rest of my life,'" his wife said.
Since that first class he has lost 70 pounds and found a new outlook on life. He's not the only one.
Source
Every one of them tell me about the endless possibilities within the martial arts, and reminds me of what I see as truly great about it.
Personal change is not *the* true meaning of martial arts, as there are many ways, many answers and many reasons.
Story:
He was overweight and plagued by a short temper. Then he started going to J.D. Paul's free Aikido classes.
"The first night he went, when he came home, he was like, ‘I love it. I'm going to do this for the rest of my life,'" his wife said.
Since that first class he has lost 70 pounds and found a new outlook on life. He's not the only one.
Source
Nice Gesture
People will agree or disagree about the purpose and everything else in this war - or any war for that matter.
Still, let us never, ever forget that there are those that are left behind; family and friends that may never see their loved ones again.
Story:
Our Military Kids Inc. was founded early last year.
The McLean, Va.-based nonprofit group raises money from private donors to give children of deployed National Guard and Reserve troops grants to help pay for extracurricular activities.
Joining a community sports team, signing up for tutoring, enrolling in martial arts classes and taking musical instrument lessons are among the activities the group supports.
The group chose to focus on guard and reservists, because those families can't always take advantage of programs offered on local military bases.
Source
Still, let us never, ever forget that there are those that are left behind; family and friends that may never see their loved ones again.
Story:
Our Military Kids Inc. was founded early last year.
The McLean, Va.-based nonprofit group raises money from private donors to give children of deployed National Guard and Reserve troops grants to help pay for extracurricular activities.
Joining a community sports team, signing up for tutoring, enrolling in martial arts classes and taking musical instrument lessons are among the activities the group supports.
The group chose to focus on guard and reservists, because those families can't always take advantage of programs offered on local military bases.
Source
Friday, March 24, 2006
Like Hand in Glove
If you've ever wondered how boxing and martial arts might blend, then you're not alone. And in case you're wondering - yes, they fit together like hand in glove (pun intended).
Story:
Ana Julaton happily spends six days a week as a sensei teaching self-defense to men, women and children.
But at night, the 25-year-old puts on headgear, dons gloves and becomes an aggressive, determined, relentless attacker ... in the boxing ring.
"I wasn't a fan of boxing growing up," Julaton said before her Tuesday workout. "It didn't make sense to me that a bunch of athletes would go into the ring and try to knock the tar out of each other.
"But Angelo Reyes showed me how scientific it is ... it's more than you think," she added. "I saw parallels between martial arts and boxing. It's beautiful if done correctly."
Source
Story:
Ana Julaton happily spends six days a week as a sensei teaching self-defense to men, women and children.
But at night, the 25-year-old puts on headgear, dons gloves and becomes an aggressive, determined, relentless attacker ... in the boxing ring.
"I wasn't a fan of boxing growing up," Julaton said before her Tuesday workout. "It didn't make sense to me that a bunch of athletes would go into the ring and try to knock the tar out of each other.
"But Angelo Reyes showed me how scientific it is ... it's more than you think," she added. "I saw parallels between martial arts and boxing. It's beautiful if done correctly."
Source
Head Injury Risk in Sports Fighting
Defenders say no-holds-barred fighting is as legitimate as other combat sports, with one argument being that boxing is more likely to cause serious head trauma.
But the new study, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, suggests that mixed martial arts actually poses a greater risk of concussion.
Source
But the new study, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, suggests that mixed martial arts actually poses a greater risk of concussion.
Source
Everyone Has a Story: Born To Fight
Another great, inspirational martial art story. I don't know about this kid black belt thing though, in fact I think it is perhaps the most stupid thing in the martial arts.
Story:
Mariah has been running, kicking and punching for more than two years now, but she's been a fighter all her life. At only 9 years old, Mariah is a first-degree black belt. Nevertheless, that's not what will amaze you about this pint-sized kicker. Mariah is legally blind. Her mom, Cindy, says her daughter is an inspiration.
Source
For more martial arts inspiration:
http://www.your-martial-arts-resources.com/inspiration.html
Story:
Mariah has been running, kicking and punching for more than two years now, but she's been a fighter all her life. At only 9 years old, Mariah is a first-degree black belt. Nevertheless, that's not what will amaze you about this pint-sized kicker. Mariah is legally blind. Her mom, Cindy, says her daughter is an inspiration.
Source
For more martial arts inspiration:
http://www.your-martial-arts-resources.com/inspiration.html
Recorder Karate?
Yes, that's right - not record, but recorder karate. Recorder... A wind instrument that can sound really nice IF it's played by someone who knows how.
Now, take 20 kids playing (almost) in tune, and you have the ultimate torture instrument bar none. I'll take a room full of bagpipes or out-of-tune violins any day!
Ok, mixing music and martial arts is nothing new, but recorder karate? How proud would you be to have a black belt in recorder karate? And what's next? Full contact Sing Fu or Guitar-kwon-do? :-)
Source (page takes some time to load)
Now, take 20 kids playing (almost) in tune, and you have the ultimate torture instrument bar none. I'll take a room full of bagpipes or out-of-tune violins any day!
Ok, mixing music and martial arts is nothing new, but recorder karate? How proud would you be to have a black belt in recorder karate? And what's next? Full contact Sing Fu or Guitar-kwon-do? :-)
Source (page takes some time to load)
'Where Have All the Ninja Gone?'
A look into the Rise and Fall of the Ninja in American pop-culture:
Cheap fuel-efficient cars, VCRs, and stereos weren't the only Japanese exports that flooded into America during the 70s and 80s. The plucky indigenous ninja cleverly smuggled themselves over the sea to dazzle American audiences with their seemingly magical martial arts abilities. They were soon to find fertile ground in American pop-culture and almost immediately a Ninja Boom was born.
Source
Your martial arts guide:
www.your-martial-arts-resources.com
Cheap fuel-efficient cars, VCRs, and stereos weren't the only Japanese exports that flooded into America during the 70s and 80s. The plucky indigenous ninja cleverly smuggled themselves over the sea to dazzle American audiences with their seemingly magical martial arts abilities. They were soon to find fertile ground in American pop-culture and almost immediately a Ninja Boom was born.
Source
Your martial arts guide:
www.your-martial-arts-resources.com
Karate Twins in Harry Potter Film
Two twins from Docklands Karate Club are high-kicking their way to movie stardom with a role in the next instalment of the magical film franchise.
Ruby and Pearl Day, both 14, will be seen mixing it with Harry, Ron and Hermione in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, which is currently in production and will be released in 2007.
Source
Ruby and Pearl Day, both 14, will be seen mixing it with Harry, Ron and Hermione in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, which is currently in production and will be released in 2007.
Source
Thursday, March 23, 2006
Refuses to Talk
Woman accused of killing a martial arts instructor refuses to talk during deposition:
A former Zanesville resident who has been accused in civil court of killing a Zanesville and Coshocton martial arts instructor in 2001 refused to answer questions during a four-hour deposition in federal court on Wednesday.
Source
A former Zanesville resident who has been accused in civil court of killing a Zanesville and Coshocton martial arts instructor in 2001 refused to answer questions during a four-hour deposition in federal court on Wednesday.
Source
Creative Ads
Here are som creative and well placed ads for taekwondo.
Just like the author says on advertisingforpeanuts.blogspot.com: "I love how these ads for J H Kim Taekwondo Institute play with their outdoor surroundings."
Source
Just like the author says on advertisingforpeanuts.blogspot.com: "I love how these ads for J H Kim Taekwondo Institute play with their outdoor surroundings."
Source
A Thing About Sumo Thong
(...), if a guy wanted to wear one of those sumo thongs, let's say just for pretend, I wonder where he could find one?
I've never seen them on a sales rack, and they carry some pretty obscure stuff at most sporting goods stores. Elephant sock puppets that act as golf club covers. Shin guards for soccer, which can double in bed as protection from a kick-happy spouse.
They even have baseball underwear with a built-in cup, for those times a man feels like sliding spread-legged into a tree.
Source
I've never seen them on a sales rack, and they carry some pretty obscure stuff at most sporting goods stores. Elephant sock puppets that act as golf club covers. Shin guards for soccer, which can double in bed as protection from a kick-happy spouse.
They even have baseball underwear with a built-in cup, for those times a man feels like sliding spread-legged into a tree.
Source
The Prison King
Wow, what a role model...
Story:
For six days last month, his accusers took the stand in federal court, telling the Judge how the 44-year-old Ziska befriended members of a white-supremacist prison-based gang called the Nazi Low Riders. They said he preached “white power” ideology and referred to black inmates as "rugs," "porch monkeys" and "niggers."
Ziska was an avid surfer and a black belt in tae kwon do. He also taught martial arts to inner-city youth for more than 20 years.
But Ziska had a darker side. Ziska’s former brother-in-law, Vince Cobbold, a former felon who spent 18 months in jail for selling marijuana and methamphetamine, testified that Ziska was a meth user who once looked into joining the Ku Klux Klan.
For four years, from 1996 to 2000, Ziska's renegade regime ruled the prison walls. He insinuated himself into many parts of inmate life. He was a leader and teacher, instructing inmates in self-defense, with tips on how to take away a weapon from a guard. He was a philosopher, preaching about Friedrich Nietzsche and Adolf Hitler's Mein Kampf.
Source
Story:
For six days last month, his accusers took the stand in federal court, telling the Judge how the 44-year-old Ziska befriended members of a white-supremacist prison-based gang called the Nazi Low Riders. They said he preached “white power” ideology and referred to black inmates as "rugs," "porch monkeys" and "niggers."
Ziska was an avid surfer and a black belt in tae kwon do. He also taught martial arts to inner-city youth for more than 20 years.
But Ziska had a darker side. Ziska’s former brother-in-law, Vince Cobbold, a former felon who spent 18 months in jail for selling marijuana and methamphetamine, testified that Ziska was a meth user who once looked into joining the Ku Klux Klan.
For four years, from 1996 to 2000, Ziska's renegade regime ruled the prison walls. He insinuated himself into many parts of inmate life. He was a leader and teacher, instructing inmates in self-defense, with tips on how to take away a weapon from a guard. He was a philosopher, preaching about Friedrich Nietzsche and Adolf Hitler's Mein Kampf.
Source
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
Sumo Football
Here's a great and funny Pepsi commercial featuring football (or soccer in USA) and some huge sumo wrestlers.I don't know too much about the ancient art of sumo - the national sport of Japan - but these guys look like the real deal.
And just in case you wonder - sumo fighters are more than big. They may seem like just being fat, but they are extremely fast, strong and super flexible too!
You can download or watch the clip here (3.60 MB wmv-file).
For more cool and funny martial arts clips, go to:
Facebook.com/MartialArtsHumor
Great Call!
Ultimate Fighting Championship middle weight champion of the world Rich Franklin hopes to have some influence when it comes to stopping violence among Cincinnati-area youth.
"Our young people need to understand that you can't just beat someone up to get what you want. If you want to fight, then keep it in the ring."
Source
"Our young people need to understand that you can't just beat someone up to get what you want. If you want to fight, then keep it in the ring."
Source
Putin Goes to Shaolin
Trade and martial arts dominate second day of Putin's China visit:
Before leaving China, Putin headed to the Shaolin Temple for a taste of Buddhism and martial arts. Established about 1,500 years ago, Shaolin is famed for the great combination of martial arts skill and Zen.
The Chinese press had already begun speculating as to whether Putin, a black belt expert in judo, would challenge the Shaolin monks after watching their demonstration of Shaolin Kung Fu.
Source
Before leaving China, Putin headed to the Shaolin Temple for a taste of Buddhism and martial arts. Established about 1,500 years ago, Shaolin is famed for the great combination of martial arts skill and Zen.
The Chinese press had already begun speculating as to whether Putin, a black belt expert in judo, would challenge the Shaolin monks after watching their demonstration of Shaolin Kung Fu.
Source
Beating Up the Boys
I simply love stories like this! And my bet is we will see more of them in the years to come. Braze yourselves guys!
Story:
Girls have been playing traditionally male sports for years now. But a Seattle high schooler has just about knocked down the gender barrier.
"If they're pushing into you, like, as hard as they can, I can probably throw 'em right there," Leilani said.
That's exactly Leilani she did 14 seconds into a recent match against a male competitor. Leilani said she used the guy's natural aggression and strength against him.
She's also a master of leverage from spending 8 years, half her life, practicing judo.
Source
Story:
Girls have been playing traditionally male sports for years now. But a Seattle high schooler has just about knocked down the gender barrier.
"If they're pushing into you, like, as hard as they can, I can probably throw 'em right there," Leilani said.
That's exactly Leilani she did 14 seconds into a recent match against a male competitor. Leilani said she used the guy's natural aggression and strength against him.
She's also a master of leverage from spending 8 years, half her life, practicing judo.
Source
Royce Returns to the Cage
At 6 feet 1 inch tall and 180 pounds, Royce Gracie might not look it, but he is one of the most feared fighters in the world.
Eleven years ago, Gracie dominated the Ultimate Fighting Championship, a no-holds-barred competition of mixed martial arts.
Now, Gracie, who is almost 40, is getting back inside the cage that made him famous.
Source
Eleven years ago, Gracie dominated the Ultimate Fighting Championship, a no-holds-barred competition of mixed martial arts.
Now, Gracie, who is almost 40, is getting back inside the cage that made him famous.
Source
More on Chuck
Lumberjacks have Paul Bunyan. Horticulturists have Johnny Appleseed. Cowboys have Pecos Bill. And now, thanks to the Internet, martial artists have Chuck Norris.
The tough-guy actor has taken on a new life online in recent months. Numerous blogs and Web sites such as www.chucknorrisfacts.com have listed the supposed feats accomplished by Norris as if they're a 21st-century tall tale. For instance:
"A Chuck Norris-delivered roundhouse kick is the preferred method of execution in 16 states."
"Chuck Norris doesn't actually write books; the words assemble themselves out of fear."
"The chief export of Chuck Norris is pain."
Source
Watch Chuck proving to have a great sense of humor reading "facts" about himself:
http://www.your-martial-arts-resources.com/funny-martial-arts-clips.html
The tough-guy actor has taken on a new life online in recent months. Numerous blogs and Web sites such as www.chucknorrisfacts.com have listed the supposed feats accomplished by Norris as if they're a 21st-century tall tale. For instance:
"A Chuck Norris-delivered roundhouse kick is the preferred method of execution in 16 states."
"Chuck Norris doesn't actually write books; the words assemble themselves out of fear."
"The chief export of Chuck Norris is pain."
Source
Watch Chuck proving to have a great sense of humor reading "facts" about himself:
http://www.your-martial-arts-resources.com/funny-martial-arts-clips.html
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
Martial Arts Students Gain World View
Living conditions for some orphans in Mexico and India have improved thanks to a partnership between a Lawrence martial arts school and a Kansas City, Mo., volunteer organization.
Students — many of them youngsters — with ATA Blackbelt and Leadership Academy, 1540 Wakarusa Drive, have spent the past several months staging events that raised more than $8,000 for Help Art Liberate Orphans.
Source
Students — many of them youngsters — with ATA Blackbelt and Leadership Academy, 1540 Wakarusa Drive, have spent the past several months staging events that raised more than $8,000 for Help Art Liberate Orphans.
Source
Tune 'Militants’ With Martial Arts?
A precious life was senselessly lost in Dar es Salaam recently; that of a man who was caught up in a nasty confrontation connected to an operation to clear petty traders from areas deemed to be inappropriate.
We submit that more emphasis should be placed on disabusing trainees of the notion of physical might: that combat tactics should apply only where resistance is apparent or in justifiable self-defence.
Judo and karate training is emphatic on this aspect. A leaf should be borrowed from there, lest young "militants" trained to do an otherwise good job turn out to be wild adventurers out to demonstrate their skills recklessly upon peaceful civilians.
Source
We submit that more emphasis should be placed on disabusing trainees of the notion of physical might: that combat tactics should apply only where resistance is apparent or in justifiable self-defence.
Judo and karate training is emphatic on this aspect. A leaf should be borrowed from there, lest young "militants" trained to do an otherwise good job turn out to be wild adventurers out to demonstrate their skills recklessly upon peaceful civilians.
Source
A Devotional Kick
Congregating before their sensei, the members start the weekly Seigi Bushido Ryu training with an opening prayer.
Throughout the two-hour session, besides sparring, punching and falling, the class will also have Bible study and closing prayers.
Source
Personally I never understood this thing about mixing faith (any faith) with martial arts. I kind of had this idea that the ethics (that should be) built into the arts were enough in the first place.
I would really like to hear your view on this topic.
Throughout the two-hour session, besides sparring, punching and falling, the class will also have Bible study and closing prayers.
Source
Personally I never understood this thing about mixing faith (any faith) with martial arts. I kind of had this idea that the ethics (that should be) built into the arts were enough in the first place.
I would really like to hear your view on this topic.
Diaper-Dan Anyone?
I guess this Canadian family isn't too much tuned in to some of the martial arts in the US (and who should blame them really?).
I wish it was true though, what is said about young people receiving dan-ranks. South of the border this seems to be the norm these days ...
Diaper-dan anyone? Who wants to be the worlds first?
Story:
Gormley admits it's extremely rare to have a black belt by the age of 12, but their daughter and son have been going to various dojos since they were born. She tested for her black belt while pregnant with Renee, and Robertson often carried around his infant daughter in his arms as he instructed in the dojo.
Source
I wish it was true though, what is said about young people receiving dan-ranks. South of the border this seems to be the norm these days ...
Diaper-dan anyone? Who wants to be the worlds first?
Story:
Gormley admits it's extremely rare to have a black belt by the age of 12, but their daughter and son have been going to various dojos since they were born. She tested for her black belt while pregnant with Renee, and Robertson often carried around his infant daughter in his arms as he instructed in the dojo.
Source
Kali World Championships
Kelli Sipin and Justin Lemke, vice chairman and executive director of the organizing council of the 9th World Championships, were scheduled to meet Grandmaster Dionisio Cañete and other local arnis officials to discuss on matters concerning the 9th World Eskrima Kali Arnis Championships which will be held on July 2-8 this year at Disneyworld in Orlando, Florida.
Source
Source
Really Mixed Up Martial Arts?
Seems like they're planning to mix the stuff even further. I'm not sure if this is Mixed Martial Arts or Mixed Up Martial Arts...
And really, has anyone heard of "Shirum", "Sabat" (guess thet mean savate), "Punclas" (should be pancrase) or "Karaibat" (probably should read kalaripayattu, or kalari for short) :-)
Story:
"'MARS' will introduce not only existing professional martial arts such as Japan's K-1, HERO's, Punclas and pro wrestling and Korea's Shirum but also each country's martial arts like Turkish wrestling, Sabat (France), Crash (Uzbekistan), Karariabat (India) and others. So 'MARS' aims at a new competition rising above all these existing martial arts."
Source
And really, has anyone heard of "Shirum", "Sabat" (guess thet mean savate), "Punclas" (should be pancrase) or "Karaibat" (probably should read kalaripayattu, or kalari for short) :-)
Story:
"'MARS' will introduce not only existing professional martial arts such as Japan's K-1, HERO's, Punclas and pro wrestling and Korea's Shirum but also each country's martial arts like Turkish wrestling, Sabat (France), Crash (Uzbekistan), Karariabat (India) and others. So 'MARS' aims at a new competition rising above all these existing martial arts."
Source
Monday, March 20, 2006
Sing Fu?
A new musical based on the life of Bruce Lee - possibly featuring the songs of David Bowie - is headed for Broadway.
Tony Award-winner David Henry Hwang has been tapped to write the book of the musical, which is under development by the Chicago-based Elephant Eye Theatricals and is projected to leap onto Broadway around 2008.
Source
Tony Award-winner David Henry Hwang has been tapped to write the book of the musical, which is under development by the Chicago-based Elephant Eye Theatricals and is projected to leap onto Broadway around 2008.
Source
Sunday, March 19, 2006
Fighting Fit Cheat
A 35-year-old claimed he was too sick to work - while holding martial arts classes and working as a nightclub doorman.
He had told the Benefits Agency that, because of a back injury sustained in an industrial accident, he needed a walking stick to get around the house.
He also said he had a tendency to fall and needed help going to the toilet, using stairs and cutting up his food.
Source
He had told the Benefits Agency that, because of a back injury sustained in an industrial accident, he needed a walking stick to get around the house.
He also said he had a tendency to fall and needed help going to the toilet, using stairs and cutting up his food.
Source
Friday, March 17, 2006
81 and Still Going Strong
I am always humbled and amazed by these people who keep going with their arts into old age! It's such an inspiration for the rest of us!
"Martial arts guru K. Thambirajah from Malaysia may be 81 but he still can take on opponents with just a twist of his hands before hurling them into the air."
Source
"Martial arts guru K. Thambirajah from Malaysia may be 81 but he still can take on opponents with just a twist of his hands before hurling them into the air."
Source
MMA Fighter in Pro Boxing Debut
Mike Varner is a recognized figure in mixed martial arts and ultimate fighting, but at 38, the veteran pugilist is going mainstream with his formidable fistic skills.
Varner (185 pounds) will make his pro boxing debut in the cruiserweight division against Providence’s Kjel Franchi.
I have said it before that even though MMA is not always my cup uf tea, you have to give these fighters respect!
Source
Varner (185 pounds) will make his pro boxing debut in the cruiserweight division against Providence’s Kjel Franchi.
I have said it before that even though MMA is not always my cup uf tea, you have to give these fighters respect!
Source
Isha Does Martial Arts
Indian female movie star Isha Koppikar does martial arts. She is allegedly being known as one of the sexiest actresses of the Hindi film industry. Seems she also is very strict about her diet and working out in general!
Source
Source
Thursday, March 16, 2006
Joke - Brief - Army - Style
Just a joke, with nothing to do about martial art (unfortunately?). Still, this one was so funny, I just had to share it:
A crusty old Sergeant Major found himself at a gala event, hosted by a local college. There was no shortage of extremely young ladies in attendance, one of whom approached him for conversation.
She said, "Excuse me, Sergeant Major, but you seem to be a very serious man. Is something bothering you?"
"Negative, ma'am," the Sergeant Major said, "Just serious by nature."
The young lady looked at his awards and decorations and said, "It looks like you have seen a lot of action."
His short reply was, "Yes, ma'am, a lot of action."
The young lady, tiring of trying to start up a conversation, said, "You know, you should lighten up a little. Relax and enjoy yourself. You know, I hope you don't take this the wrong way, but when is the last time you had sex?"
The Sergeant Major looked at her and replied, "1955."
She said, "Well, there you are. You really need to chill out and quit taking everything so seriously! I mean, no sex since 1955! She took his hand and led him to a private room where she proceeded to "relax" him several times. Afterwards, panting for breath, she leaned against his bare chest and said, "Wow, you sure didn't forget much since 1955!"
The Sergeant Major, glancing at his watch, said in his matter-of-fact voice, "I hope not, it's only 2130 now."
A crusty old Sergeant Major found himself at a gala event, hosted by a local college. There was no shortage of extremely young ladies in attendance, one of whom approached him for conversation.
She said, "Excuse me, Sergeant Major, but you seem to be a very serious man. Is something bothering you?"
"Negative, ma'am," the Sergeant Major said, "Just serious by nature."
The young lady looked at his awards and decorations and said, "It looks like you have seen a lot of action."
His short reply was, "Yes, ma'am, a lot of action."
The young lady, tiring of trying to start up a conversation, said, "You know, you should lighten up a little. Relax and enjoy yourself. You know, I hope you don't take this the wrong way, but when is the last time you had sex?"
The Sergeant Major looked at her and replied, "1955."
She said, "Well, there you are. You really need to chill out and quit taking everything so seriously! I mean, no sex since 1955! She took his hand and led him to a private room where she proceeded to "relax" him several times. Afterwards, panting for breath, she leaned against his bare chest and said, "Wow, you sure didn't forget much since 1955!"
The Sergeant Major, glancing at his watch, said in his matter-of-fact voice, "I hope not, it's only 2130 now."
They're All for Karate
Martial arts a guy thing? What ever gave you that idea? Maybe it's because some like to believe the arts are all about fighting?
Here's an article from The Honolulu Advertiser:
"They say that the family that plays together stays together. In the case of the Goodins, however, it could be said that the family that kicks, blocks and punches together stays together, too."
Read this and other martial arts related articles at:
your-martial-arts-resources.com
Here's an article from The Honolulu Advertiser:
"They say that the family that plays together stays together. In the case of the Goodins, however, it could be said that the family that kicks, blocks and punches together stays together, too."
Read this and other martial arts related articles at:
your-martial-arts-resources.com
In With the Yin/Yang Thing!
Here's a free martial arts article for you and your readers:
http://www.your-martial-arts-resources.com/free-budo-articles.html
It's titled: "The Tao of Both Sides: In with the yin/yang thing", and it's about being able to widen the perspective about running a martial arts club versus a school, having few versus many students, being commercial versus non-profit and so on.
It's basically about being able to see that there are more ways than one to define (and achieve) "good" or "bad" fighters, students, results etc. It should be possible to have more than one thought in our heads at a time...
Enjoy, and by all means comment!
http://www.your-martial-arts-resources.com/free-budo-articles.html
It's titled: "The Tao of Both Sides: In with the yin/yang thing", and it's about being able to widen the perspective about running a martial arts club versus a school, having few versus many students, being commercial versus non-profit and so on.
It's basically about being able to see that there are more ways than one to define (and achieve) "good" or "bad" fighters, students, results etc. It should be possible to have more than one thought in our heads at a time...
Enjoy, and by all means comment!
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Park Yong-Sung Suspended From IOC
Park Yong-Sung of South Korea was suspended Wednesday as a member of the International Olympic Committee pending the final outcome of his corruption case.
The 65-year-old Park is president of the International Judo Federation.
Source
The 65-year-old Park is president of the International Judo Federation.
Source
Slo Kwon Do
Good or bad idea? Maybe tai-chi would be a better option? You'll be the judge of that.
"Heather Daly of Brighton held a black belt in tae kwon-do before developing disabling, chronic pain six years ago. (...) And thus was born Slo Kwon-do, as she calls it, intended as a holistic way for adults to relieve stress and improve fitness."
Source
"Heather Daly of Brighton held a black belt in tae kwon-do before developing disabling, chronic pain six years ago. (...) And thus was born Slo Kwon-do, as she calls it, intended as a holistic way for adults to relieve stress and improve fitness."
Source
Martial Arts: Fun and fitness
How do you promote your martial art? Self-defense; combat; tradition; competition; health; personal growth and building of character? Some, all or none of these?
Let us not forget the aspect of fitness! Oh and can we throw (pun intended) in how fun it can be, then I think we'll hit a home run :-)
Here's a beginners view on the work-out side of martial arts.
"I was a Green Beret. I ran three marathons, including the Pikes Peak (up and down the mountain). I still work out four to five times a week, at what I had thought was a fairly high degree of intensity. But I've never been more whipped after a workout than I was after these two martial arts classes."
Source
Let us not forget the aspect of fitness! Oh and can we throw (pun intended) in how fun it can be, then I think we'll hit a home run :-)
Here's a beginners view on the work-out side of martial arts.
"I was a Green Beret. I ran three marathons, including the Pikes Peak (up and down the mountain). I still work out four to five times a week, at what I had thought was a fairly high degree of intensity. But I've never been more whipped after a workout than I was after these two martial arts classes."
Source
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Real Cute Kid-Kwon-Do
Is this a cute tae-kwon-do toddler or not?This baby girl is doing her exercises while watching a children program on the TV.
Makes you wanna go ahh! :-)
I hope she continues and becomes one lethal female fighter! New record for starting young?
Just don't start that black belt to kids thing, and I'm all for it!
Oh, yes, you can download or watch the clip here (9.43 MB wmv-file).
For more cool and funny martial arts clips, go to:
http://www.your-martial-arts-resources.com/funny-martial-arts-clips.html
A Book About Longevity
"50 Secrets of the World's Longest Living People" by Marlowe & Company, is a book written by nutritionist Sally Beare.
She looked for the answer in the Bama County of China, Okinawa, Italy, Japan, Symi (a Greek island), Pakistan (Hunza Valley) and other places where people traditionally live a long and healthy life.
Beare boils it down to 50 simple as well as helpful tips.
She goes into the diet that these people have:
Lots of fruits and vegetables, healthy fat (nuts, olive oil, seeds etc.) and whole grains. Not much - and lean - meat. They generally also consume lots of beans.
Naturally they're moderate about overeating and consuming alcohol. Smoke? Eh... No.
And you don't need trips to the gym, it's the regular exercises that does it.
The leading activities among these people:
Hunting, dancing and martial arts - oh, and in the Hunza Valley a polo-like, fast sport that's played with a goat's head. Me, I guess I'll stick to the martial arts...
And folks - don't forget that a positive and cheerful outlook on life helps too :-)
She looked for the answer in the Bama County of China, Okinawa, Italy, Japan, Symi (a Greek island), Pakistan (Hunza Valley) and other places where people traditionally live a long and healthy life.
Beare boils it down to 50 simple as well as helpful tips.
She goes into the diet that these people have:
Lots of fruits and vegetables, healthy fat (nuts, olive oil, seeds etc.) and whole grains. Not much - and lean - meat. They generally also consume lots of beans.
Naturally they're moderate about overeating and consuming alcohol. Smoke? Eh... No.
And you don't need trips to the gym, it's the regular exercises that does it.
The leading activities among these people:
Hunting, dancing and martial arts - oh, and in the Hunza Valley a polo-like, fast sport that's played with a goat's head. Me, I guess I'll stick to the martial arts...
And folks - don't forget that a positive and cheerful outlook on life helps too :-)
Female Jiu-Jitsu Chaplain
Sasebo chaplain Sunny Mitchell is a student of jiu-jitsu:
Q: What about you might surprise most people?
A: I love ballroom dancing and Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
Q: How does studying a martial art fit with being a chaplain?
A: I’ve done it on and off for most of my adult life. I started fighting in the jiu-jitsu club in college after watching the first UFC. When I moved to Atlanta for graduate school, I started training with a well-respected Brazilian jiu-jitsu instructor. While in seminary and the few chances I’ve had to train in Sasebo, I use the mat time to release the day’s frustrations.
Q: How has studying jiu-jitsu affected other areas of your life?
A: As a female, I’m more aware of safety situations. I try not to put myself in situations where I could subject myself to being harmed.
Source
Q: What about you might surprise most people?
A: I love ballroom dancing and Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
Q: How does studying a martial art fit with being a chaplain?
A: I’ve done it on and off for most of my adult life. I started fighting in the jiu-jitsu club in college after watching the first UFC. When I moved to Atlanta for graduate school, I started training with a well-respected Brazilian jiu-jitsu instructor. While in seminary and the few chances I’ve had to train in Sasebo, I use the mat time to release the day’s frustrations.
Q: How has studying jiu-jitsu affected other areas of your life?
A: As a female, I’m more aware of safety situations. I try not to put myself in situations where I could subject myself to being harmed.
Source
Sad, Sad, Sad
Stories like this can really make my blood boil:
Baltimore County police have arrested and charged a 51-year-old man who taught karate with sexual abuse of a child.
Source
And I really hope I'm wrong, but it looks as though there's an increase. Hopefully it is a matter of more cases being brought forward, which is a good thing.
The downside of course is that it may cause suspicion towards all the honest and decent martial arts schools and teachers out there.
Baltimore County police have arrested and charged a 51-year-old man who taught karate with sexual abuse of a child.
Source
And I really hope I'm wrong, but it looks as though there's an increase. Hopefully it is a matter of more cases being brought forward, which is a good thing.
The downside of course is that it may cause suspicion towards all the honest and decent martial arts schools and teachers out there.
Monday, March 13, 2006
What is an Expert Anyway?
Are you an expert at the level of shodan (1. dan, black belt)? Nope. I mean, some schools award the level to kids as young as 7 or 8...
Can an expert be measured by rank at all? In my opinion, no. You can buy a rank, just tag along and get promoted - plus it is hard to tell exactly what the rank includes in many styles and arts.
Are you an expert after one year, five years, twenty years? it all depends upon what you've been doing all the time doesn't it; what have you achieved?
To me a martial arts expert is someone who knows a lot (like in a LOT) or most of the things within a given art. It's not knowing the ins and outs - it's having it ingrained in every fiber of your being. It's not longer about doing, it's about being...
Do you know the history, tradition, philosophy of your art inside and out?
Do you know the technical sides inside and out, all its applications and implications?
Can you teach them to me?
Can you break any given technique down and add your own flavor to it?
Can you watch someone do any given technique in any style, and tell how that relates to your own style?
Do you know the limitations and possibilities within your given art?
Can you tell and show someone how to improve any given method within your art?
Do you know the medical, tactical, strategical, ethical, juridical and spiritual foundations and ramifications of your art?
Can you apply your art as self-defense, or show/explain how and why it is not suited; can you add what is needed to make it suitable?
Can you make a study of how your art relates to fighting, weapons, grappling, locks, chokes, restraints, blocks, deflections, evasions, take downs, throws, self-defense, forms/kata, shows etc?
Can you discuss (and preferably show) how the mechanical principles of push/pull, friction, mass, momentum, torque, balance, movement, flow, distance, timing, angle etc. comes into play in a given method of your art?
If you can, then you probably are a true expert - a true master - of your art. And this humble student would gladly travel the world to meet you!
Can an expert be measured by rank at all? In my opinion, no. You can buy a rank, just tag along and get promoted - plus it is hard to tell exactly what the rank includes in many styles and arts.
Are you an expert after one year, five years, twenty years? it all depends upon what you've been doing all the time doesn't it; what have you achieved?
To me a martial arts expert is someone who knows a lot (like in a LOT) or most of the things within a given art. It's not knowing the ins and outs - it's having it ingrained in every fiber of your being. It's not longer about doing, it's about being...
Do you know the history, tradition, philosophy of your art inside and out?
Do you know the technical sides inside and out, all its applications and implications?
Can you teach them to me?
Can you break any given technique down and add your own flavor to it?
Can you watch someone do any given technique in any style, and tell how that relates to your own style?
Do you know the limitations and possibilities within your given art?
Can you tell and show someone how to improve any given method within your art?
Do you know the medical, tactical, strategical, ethical, juridical and spiritual foundations and ramifications of your art?
Can you apply your art as self-defense, or show/explain how and why it is not suited; can you add what is needed to make it suitable?
Can you make a study of how your art relates to fighting, weapons, grappling, locks, chokes, restraints, blocks, deflections, evasions, take downs, throws, self-defense, forms/kata, shows etc?
Can you discuss (and preferably show) how the mechanical principles of push/pull, friction, mass, momentum, torque, balance, movement, flow, distance, timing, angle etc. comes into play in a given method of your art?
If you can, then you probably are a true expert - a true master - of your art. And this humble student would gladly travel the world to meet you!
Ultimate Violence?
Personally I don't think too much of this sport.
Sure, it can be interesting to watch - lots of action - and I have nothing but the utmost respect for the fighters.
But the audience and "fans"? I guess not everyone should be allowed to watch. Combine fighting with alcohol, and you have a bad mixture.
Take that from someone who's been working the doors.
Source
Sure, it can be interesting to watch - lots of action - and I have nothing but the utmost respect for the fighters.
But the audience and "fans"? I guess not everyone should be allowed to watch. Combine fighting with alcohol, and you have a bad mixture.
Take that from someone who's been working the doors.
Source
Sunday, March 12, 2006
Ladies Kung-Football
Heres a cool clip of "Kung-Football". If only regular football (or soccer as some people tend to call it) was this nice to look at!It's a great game to play yourself, but it can be as interesting to watch as TV soap...
I believe this was a commercial for the FIFA Woman's World Cup 2003.
You can watch it or download it here (2.13 MB wmv-file)
For more cool and funny martial arts clips, go to:
http://www.your-martial-arts-resources.com/funny-martial-arts-clips.html
Sucking Into the Game of "Ju-Suck-Do"
News travel fast these days - so, it seems, does ignorance, bickering, envy, mistrust, backstabbing, and lack of compassion, generosity and understanding.
As soon as there are some news about the martial arts - good or bad, positive or negative - you will see a host of others in various chat rooms and MA fora jumping in to defend or attack.
"I would never do anything as stupid as that..."; "If he only had trained a real martial art, like..."; "I would have done..."; "Why didn't she just....?"; and on and on it goes ad infinitum.
The most recent example involves this case, where a man took physical abuse from his wife, even though he was a trained martial artist.
It seems like it's a game to many out there: Making yourself and your chosen art bigger or better, by talking trash about others. Well boys, I've got news for you: It doesn't work.
Does a salesperson bring any more sales by talking bad about his competition? Does someone think you're a real swell personality when you are constantly talking negative about someone else? I'll leave you to figure that out on your own.
And why on earth didn't this guy fight back? Yes why indeed does someone - male or female - stay in an abusive relationship? Why do we allow someone to behave negative towards us at all? Why didn't he just...
Educate yourself! And my best advice is to start with the letter L, like in love. Now that is a strong fu!
As soon as there are some news about the martial arts - good or bad, positive or negative - you will see a host of others in various chat rooms and MA fora jumping in to defend or attack.
"I would never do anything as stupid as that..."; "If he only had trained a real martial art, like..."; "I would have done..."; "Why didn't she just....?"; and on and on it goes ad infinitum.
The most recent example involves this case, where a man took physical abuse from his wife, even though he was a trained martial artist.
It seems like it's a game to many out there: Making yourself and your chosen art bigger or better, by talking trash about others. Well boys, I've got news for you: It doesn't work.
Does a salesperson bring any more sales by talking bad about his competition? Does someone think you're a real swell personality when you are constantly talking negative about someone else? I'll leave you to figure that out on your own.
And why on earth didn't this guy fight back? Yes why indeed does someone - male or female - stay in an abusive relationship? Why do we allow someone to behave negative towards us at all? Why didn't he just...
Educate yourself! And my best advice is to start with the letter L, like in love. Now that is a strong fu!
Think Pink
If it takes pink uniforms (dogi or gi) to get young girls to take up karate, then I say why not. The main thing is that people start; continue to train; learn something valuable and enjoy themselves in the process!
Personally I find the idea a little strange, but the bottom line here is to make it fun. And, hey - it's a girl thing - something we guys don't understand any how :-)
You read the story and judge for yourself:
Source
Personally I find the idea a little strange, but the bottom line here is to make it fun. And, hey - it's a girl thing - something we guys don't understand any how :-)
You read the story and judge for yourself:
Source
How Many "Experts" are There?
I really do wonder...
The term "martial arts expert" must surely be on the very top of the list of misused and misplaced phrases in the media?
It seems like being able to throw a punch and chewing a gum without falling over is all it takes. "You know how to tie a belt!? - Wow, you're an expert!"
Personally I've been doing this stuff (excluding the gum) for 30 years, and I wouldn't dream of considering myself an expert. I know some real experts that would have a laugh if I did...
Could someone please inform the ladies and gentlemen of the media that it takes a little more than a black belt and a proud mum and dad to be a martial arts expert? 3-5 years with martial arts is NOT a long time. The true training starts at black belt for crying out loud!
Ok, I'm calm now :-)
More about the martial arts here:
http://www.your-martial-arts-resources.com
The term "martial arts expert" must surely be on the very top of the list of misused and misplaced phrases in the media?
It seems like being able to throw a punch and chewing a gum without falling over is all it takes. "You know how to tie a belt!? - Wow, you're an expert!"
Personally I've been doing this stuff (excluding the gum) for 30 years, and I wouldn't dream of considering myself an expert. I know some real experts that would have a laugh if I did...
Could someone please inform the ladies and gentlemen of the media that it takes a little more than a black belt and a proud mum and dad to be a martial arts expert? 3-5 years with martial arts is NOT a long time. The true training starts at black belt for crying out loud!
Ok, I'm calm now :-)
More about the martial arts here:
http://www.your-martial-arts-resources.com
Wife Whacks Martial Arts Expert
He holds a black belt in taekwondo.
But whenever his wife attacked him, Mr Tay Joo Meng, 35, was meek as a lamb. For three years, the odd-job labourer was treated like a punching bag.
Once, he was hit so hard on the head that he lost his hearing in one ear permanently. Still, he suffered in silence.
Source
But whenever his wife attacked him, Mr Tay Joo Meng, 35, was meek as a lamb. For three years, the odd-job labourer was treated like a punching bag.
Once, he was hit so hard on the head that he lost his hearing in one ear permanently. Still, he suffered in silence.
Source
Saturday, March 11, 2006
Tai Chi for Health
One major benefit of practicing tai chi is the improvement of balance. In older people, this improvement in balance can protect them from falling.
In a study conducted by researchers at Emory University in Atlanta titled “Reducing Fragility and Falls in Older Persons: An Investigation of Tai Chi and Computerized Balance Training,” there was a 47.5 percent reduction of falls, along with a reduced fear of falling, in the tai chi participants.
Source
In a study conducted by researchers at Emory University in Atlanta titled “Reducing Fragility and Falls in Older Persons: An Investigation of Tai Chi and Computerized Balance Training,” there was a 47.5 percent reduction of falls, along with a reduced fear of falling, in the tai chi participants.
Source
Olympic Wushu - With a Catch
Wushu is expected to scale new heights when the sport makes its debut at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.
There is a catch though.
The sport will be held in the Chinese capital during the same time as the Olympics but the medals be held will not be taken into consideration.
Source
There is a catch though.
The sport will be held in the Chinese capital during the same time as the Olympics but the medals be held will not be taken into consideration.
Source
The Student You Don't Want to Be (1)
In my 25 years plus of teaching I have come across many students of martial arts that don't exactly make it easy for themselves - not to mention their fellow students as well as their teachers...
In this series we will look at some of these "difficult" students. Not by name of course, but by specific and more general traits.
1. The Collector:
Here's a person who knows more than 100 variations of a defense against any given attack. Thousands of obscure (and totally useless) wristlocks - No problem!
Collectors are never totally satisfied unless they have learned something new to add to the collection. They tend to be bored after a few repetitions (like two or three...), when they wish to do something else.
The main thing for them is not to be able to use the 750.000 + techniques – just knowing about them is.
If you wish to succeed in any martial art you do not want to be a Collector! There is nothing wrong with knowledge, of course. Just don't forget that martial art is about doing :-)
In this series we will look at some of these "difficult" students. Not by name of course, but by specific and more general traits.
1. The Collector:
Here's a person who knows more than 100 variations of a defense against any given attack. Thousands of obscure (and totally useless) wristlocks - No problem!
Collectors are never totally satisfied unless they have learned something new to add to the collection. They tend to be bored after a few repetitions (like two or three...), when they wish to do something else.
The main thing for them is not to be able to use the 750.000 + techniques – just knowing about them is.
If you wish to succeed in any martial art you do not want to be a Collector! There is nothing wrong with knowledge, of course. Just don't forget that martial art is about doing :-)
MA Weapons May Not Be Legal to Possess
In most countries you can purchase martial arts weapons. However you will face problems if you are caught carrying them.
I strongly advice you to check with your local authorities before carrying weapons of any kind around - even to training.
Here's an article from USA/The Sweetwater Reporter about this issue :
Source
I strongly advice you to check with your local authorities before carrying weapons of any kind around - even to training.
Here's an article from USA/The Sweetwater Reporter about this issue :
Source
Friday, March 10, 2006
Judo Road-Rage
No verbal "break-a-leg" judo here I'm afraid, more of the breaking a leg variety. But what is this thing with aggressive Taxi drivers? In London? You got to be kidding! Jolly nice people, I'd say.
Anyhow:
This London cab driver who used a judo move to break a binman's leg because his vehicle was blocking the road has been warned he faces jail.
Bad move... (by the cab driver, that is).
Source
Anyhow:
This London cab driver who used a judo move to break a binman's leg because his vehicle was blocking the road has been warned he faces jail.
Bad move... (by the cab driver, that is).
Source
Fraud in the Martial Arts
It's a sad fact that there are those who use the martial arts as a venue to set people up; ripping them off and charging an almost insane amount of money for what seems to be little or nothing in return.
One such case is being targeted in Mishawaka, Indiana, USA. Contact 16 have a story going they call "Martial Arts Mess", and a mess it is indeed.
Source
One such case is being targeted in Mishawaka, Indiana, USA. Contact 16 have a story going they call "Martial Arts Mess", and a mess it is indeed.
Source
Learning the Language to Help Your Martial Art?
Learn Chinese, master martial arts:
Kobayshi Yoshihito has discovered a little-known secret weapon to master martial arts. Rather than solely relying on physical technique, discipline and practice, he is also finding that learning the Chinese language can do wonders for a serious martial arts aficionado.
Source
Kobayshi Yoshihito has discovered a little-known secret weapon to master martial arts. Rather than solely relying on physical technique, discipline and practice, he is also finding that learning the Chinese language can do wonders for a serious martial arts aficionado.
Source
The Deadly Judo Chop in India?
In Orissa, India, it seems that some members of the State Assembly are concerned that security staff might use judo against the opposition (Orissa is one of the states in India).
The Speaker allegedly amended his earlier stand and assured the House that the security staff trained in Judo would not be used against Opposition members.
Silly me, I thought all the fighting was done in the Russian Duma (National Assembly). Oh well...
Source
Read the story here:
http://www.your-martial-arts-resources.com/martial-arts-news.html
The Speaker allegedly amended his earlier stand and assured the House that the security staff trained in Judo would not be used against Opposition members.
Silly me, I thought all the fighting was done in the Russian Duma (National Assembly). Oh well...
Source
Read the story here:
http://www.your-martial-arts-resources.com/martial-arts-news.html
Thursday, March 09, 2006
How Do You Sue?
Grandson of Chinese kung fu master files lawsuit, says Jet Li movie dishonors ancestor:
China -- The grandson of a late Chinese kung fu master is waging a legal battle against the producers and distributors of a new Jet Li film, claiming the movie misrepresents and dishonors its real-life subject, the official Xinhua News Agency said Thursday.
Source
Read the story here:
http://www.your-martial-arts-resources.com/martial-arts-news.html
China -- The grandson of a late Chinese kung fu master is waging a legal battle against the producers and distributors of a new Jet Li film, claiming the movie misrepresents and dishonors its real-life subject, the official Xinhua News Agency said Thursday.
Source
Read the story here:
http://www.your-martial-arts-resources.com/martial-arts-news.html
A Blind Fighter
Here's a remarkable and inspirational story about a blind, female teenager from USA, Sara Parson, who competes in jujitsu.
Mind you, she competes - and wins - against seeing opponents! I can only say that I'm totally impressed and full of respect. You go girl!
Source
Read the story here:
http://www.your-martial-arts-resources.com/inspirational-martial-arts-stories.html
Mind you, she competes - and wins - against seeing opponents! I can only say that I'm totally impressed and full of respect. You go girl!
Source
Read the story here:
http://www.your-martial-arts-resources.com/inspirational-martial-arts-stories.html
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
For All You Ninja Turtle Fans
I know you're out there :-)
March 08, 2006
Warner Bros., Weinstein pair for 'Turtles' Warner Bros.
Pictures will oversee domestic distribution of the CG-animated "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles," while the Weinstein Co. will distribute internationally. The Imagi Animation Studios film is a joint acquisition of Warners and Weinstein and will be released domestically on March 30, 2007.
Read the story here: Source
March 08, 2006
Warner Bros., Weinstein pair for 'Turtles' Warner Bros.
Pictures will oversee domestic distribution of the CG-animated "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles," while the Weinstein Co. will distribute internationally. The Imagi Animation Studios film is a joint acquisition of Warners and Weinstein and will be released domestically on March 30, 2007.
Read the story here: Source
Sword Kills Boy
"A 15-year-old boy in Florida was killed when a 29-inch sword displayed on his bedroom wall fell and slashed his shoulder and neck. "
Whatever the reason, it's always tragic when incidents like this happens. Still, keeping a sharp weapon unsecured like this?
Source
Read the story here:
http://www.your-martial-arts-resources.com/martial-arts-news.html
Whatever the reason, it's always tragic when incidents like this happens. Still, keeping a sharp weapon unsecured like this?
Source
Read the story here:
http://www.your-martial-arts-resources.com/martial-arts-news.html
Welcome
Welcome to Martial Arts Sources!
In this blog you will find news and events, quirks, tips and tricks... Just about anything and everything that has to do with martial arts.
Stick around, and have fun!
Yours
Torbjorn Arntsen
http://www-your-martial-arts-resources.com
In this blog you will find news and events, quirks, tips and tricks... Just about anything and everything that has to do with martial arts.
Stick around, and have fun!
Yours
Torbjorn Arntsen
http://www-your-martial-arts-resources.com
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