A massive kung fu theme park will be built in Shunde District of Foshan, the hometown of martial arts legend Bruce Lee.
Covering an area of more than 200 hectares, the park will include a Bruce Lee Memorial Hall and a large statue of the star.
The theme park is also set to become the Chinese mainland's biggest martial arts training centre.
Source
Monday, July 31, 2006
Canoe-do
Kayaking and canoes involve paddling and water. T'ai Chi, a style of martial arts, is practiced on land with neither water nor boats.
The two seem unrelated but did you know that T'ai Chi benefits water sports players like enthusiasts of kayaking and canoes racing? Paddling requires moving gracefully, strongly, and balanced on rough waters. It also puts much strain on the arms and the back, if done incorrectly. T'ai Chi improves and enhances paddling skills because the exercise and the sport follow the same principles.
Karen Knight and Betsey Forster, experts in kayaking and canoes racing, admit to doing T'ai Chi regularly. According to them, T'ai Chi provides cross-training.
They claim that kayaking and T'ai Chi reinforce the skills and principles of each other which make practice of both relevant for improvement. They add that doing complementary exercises boosts the skills and energy levels of paddlers. The two share kayaking principles and the complementary T'ai Chi practices.
Source
The two seem unrelated but did you know that T'ai Chi benefits water sports players like enthusiasts of kayaking and canoes racing? Paddling requires moving gracefully, strongly, and balanced on rough waters. It also puts much strain on the arms and the back, if done incorrectly. T'ai Chi improves and enhances paddling skills because the exercise and the sport follow the same principles.
Karen Knight and Betsey Forster, experts in kayaking and canoes racing, admit to doing T'ai Chi regularly. According to them, T'ai Chi provides cross-training.
They claim that kayaking and T'ai Chi reinforce the skills and principles of each other which make practice of both relevant for improvement. They add that doing complementary exercises boosts the skills and energy levels of paddlers. The two share kayaking principles and the complementary T'ai Chi practices.
Source
Sunday, July 30, 2006
Just kinda clicked
It's a sad truth about our society -- young people not realizing the effects of their sometimes loathsome behavior toward their peers.
Now, Brenna McPheron stares right back and marches on, secure in her place in what can too often be a cruel world. Brenna's bigger than all that now, drawing strength, confidence and happiness from an unlikely source.
It's been almost two years since Brenna was introduced to the world of martial arts and the soon-to-be senior at Bald Eagle Area High School swears she doesn't know where she'd be today if her piano teacher -- yes, her piano teacher -- hadn't urged her to try it out.
"She told me, 'I think this would be really good for you,'" Brenna said. "I figured I'd give it a try and then I ended up actually being decent at it. It just kinda clicked, I guess."
Source
Now, Brenna McPheron stares right back and marches on, secure in her place in what can too often be a cruel world. Brenna's bigger than all that now, drawing strength, confidence and happiness from an unlikely source.
It's been almost two years since Brenna was introduced to the world of martial arts and the soon-to-be senior at Bald Eagle Area High School swears she doesn't know where she'd be today if her piano teacher -- yes, her piano teacher -- hadn't urged her to try it out.
"She told me, 'I think this would be really good for you,'" Brenna said. "I figured I'd give it a try and then I ended up actually being decent at it. It just kinda clicked, I guess."
Source
Another "expert"
Another "Martial arts expert" (sic.)
Probably means that he has achieved the Deadly Black Belt ™.
Story:
UK -- The Silwertown IT consultant who murdered his girlfriend with a candelabra has been sentenced to life imprisonment.
Martial arts expert Martin Inglis murdered Italian-born Model Charlotte Maltese by smashing her in the face with a candelabra and broken bottle.
The murder took place at their Barrier Point Road home in Royal Docks on September 10 last year.
Judge Timothy Pontius told Inglis he will serve a minimum 17 years for his act of "extraordinary savagery".
Source
Probably means that he has achieved the Deadly Black Belt ™.
Story:
UK -- The Silwertown IT consultant who murdered his girlfriend with a candelabra has been sentenced to life imprisonment.
Martial arts expert Martin Inglis murdered Italian-born Model Charlotte Maltese by smashing her in the face with a candelabra and broken bottle.
The murder took place at their Barrier Point Road home in Royal Docks on September 10 last year.
Judge Timothy Pontius told Inglis he will serve a minimum 17 years for his act of "extraordinary savagery".
Source
Saturday, July 29, 2006
Defies the odds
UK -- Angi Marsden, 42, had to give up her dream of becoming a professional dancer when she discovered she had FSH Muscular Dystrophy, which causes weakening of the muscles, at the age of 18.
However, despite having to use a wheelchair or a walking stick to get around, she has managed to juggle a full-time job at Leeds Metropolitan University with being a mother of three, attending martial arts classes and becoming a green belt in karate.
Now Angi is set to take over as leader of the Swarcliffe branch of Slimming World, having joined five months ago and lost a stone.
Source
However, despite having to use a wheelchair or a walking stick to get around, she has managed to juggle a full-time job at Leeds Metropolitan University with being a mother of three, attending martial arts classes and becoming a green belt in karate.
Now Angi is set to take over as leader of the Swarcliffe branch of Slimming World, having joined five months ago and lost a stone.
Source
Lost in translation
Here's an interesting - and humorous - article from a Korean Buddhist temple.
Story:
It is pitch black outside. Suddenly the room is aglow. A soft voice says, "Time to wake up." She must be kidding. But at a Buddhist monastery near Busan, South Korea, the day begins at 3 a.m.
For me, Buddhism is difficult, but with a translator, it is incomprehensible. "Everyone," says Hye Su, our monk teacher. "Yes," we answer. "What is everyone?" he asks. "Me," answers one of the group. "What is me?" he asks.
After breakfast, we hike to some ancient tombs. No path, just lots of trees and big rocks. It's worth the trek. The monuments date back to the Shilla Dynasty. Some are more than 1,100 years old.
More exercise comes with a martial arts demonstration and lesson. Though the monks are usually peaceful, they will fight to protect their country if necessary. In fact, Beomeosa Temple was founded about 1,300 years ago to protect the peninsula from Japanese pirates.
Monks are masters of martial arts and practice it for health and well-being. They make it look so easy. It's not. I trip over my feet. My kicks are pathetic. Another indication that though I have enjoyed this experience, I don't have a future as a Buddhist monk.
Source
Story:
It is pitch black outside. Suddenly the room is aglow. A soft voice says, "Time to wake up." She must be kidding. But at a Buddhist monastery near Busan, South Korea, the day begins at 3 a.m.
For me, Buddhism is difficult, but with a translator, it is incomprehensible. "Everyone," says Hye Su, our monk teacher. "Yes," we answer. "What is everyone?" he asks. "Me," answers one of the group. "What is me?" he asks.
After breakfast, we hike to some ancient tombs. No path, just lots of trees and big rocks. It's worth the trek. The monuments date back to the Shilla Dynasty. Some are more than 1,100 years old.
More exercise comes with a martial arts demonstration and lesson. Though the monks are usually peaceful, they will fight to protect their country if necessary. In fact, Beomeosa Temple was founded about 1,300 years ago to protect the peninsula from Japanese pirates.
Monks are masters of martial arts and practice it for health and well-being. They make it look so easy. It's not. I trip over my feet. My kicks are pathetic. Another indication that though I have enjoyed this experience, I don't have a future as a Buddhist monk.
Source
Underworld forces
Kyrgyzstan -- The belly laugh moment came during my interview with the diminutive candidate, an ex-judo champion, when he accused his opponent of voting fraud. Sanshar Kadyralev, 29, was calling for the electoral commission to not certify results from four polling stations, thereby ensuring his victory by a slim margin.
His opponent, who did not have a brigade of thugs and fled to the safety of the capital after the polling, was leveling similar counter-charges. Later, at the election commission office, some of Sanshar's men were contesting the results. The election commissioner, a small middle-aged woman, was visibly frightened. How could she resist -- and why would she put her family at risk over such a trifle as a parliamentary seat?
Knowing that Sanshar was a local crime boss controlling the Karasuu market, the largest in Kyrgyzstan, and various gambling and strip clubs, it was hard to credit his pained expressions of indignation. He was cagey about his backers and political network, but did finally admit that he was in contact with the nation's leading crime boss, Ryspek Akmatbayev (since slain).
Perhaps such occupational hazards explain why Sanshar was fidgety and nervous during the interview and why security was so tight. Young politicians like him with close ties to organized crime are dubbed the "karate kids," on account of their making it more on their command of brawn than policies. They rise quickly, but tend to have short-lived careers. Such is the price of encroaching on the turf of the underworld's Chechen "aristocracy."
Source
His opponent, who did not have a brigade of thugs and fled to the safety of the capital after the polling, was leveling similar counter-charges. Later, at the election commission office, some of Sanshar's men were contesting the results. The election commissioner, a small middle-aged woman, was visibly frightened. How could she resist -- and why would she put her family at risk over such a trifle as a parliamentary seat?
Knowing that Sanshar was a local crime boss controlling the Karasuu market, the largest in Kyrgyzstan, and various gambling and strip clubs, it was hard to credit his pained expressions of indignation. He was cagey about his backers and political network, but did finally admit that he was in contact with the nation's leading crime boss, Ryspek Akmatbayev (since slain).
Perhaps such occupational hazards explain why Sanshar was fidgety and nervous during the interview and why security was so tight. Young politicians like him with close ties to organized crime are dubbed the "karate kids," on account of their making it more on their command of brawn than policies. They rise quickly, but tend to have short-lived careers. Such is the price of encroaching on the turf of the underworld's Chechen "aristocracy."
Source
Friday, July 28, 2006
A love for karate
Australia -- A Cranbourne man defied the odds to become a karate black belt after a devastating accident left him in a wheelchair.
Matt Charles will now take over the Seishin Dojo karate school in Cranbourne despite being told he would never walk unaided.
The 32-year-old was crushed by a concrete retaining wall at his workplace 10 years ago and three discs in his spine were squashed.
Source
Matt Charles will now take over the Seishin Dojo karate school in Cranbourne despite being told he would never walk unaided.
The 32-year-old was crushed by a concrete retaining wall at his workplace 10 years ago and three discs in his spine were squashed.
Source
Buce Lee interview
Here's a great, and allegedly long lost, interview with Bruce Lee.This is without a doubt a must see for any serious martial arts student! Lee talks about his art, and his philosophy - the deeper meaning of his art and his training.
The best part for me is really to witness the immense presence and charisma of the man.
You can get the clip here (10.03MB, flv file)
You need the free flv-player installed to view flv clips on your own computer.
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Journalist murdered
Brazil -- Ajuricaba Monassa de Paula, a 73-year-old freelance journalist and member of the local opposition, was beaten to death in public in Guapirimim, in Rio de Janeiro state, on 24 July by a municipal councilor he had criticised.
The attack took place when Monassa was in a central square in the town of Guapirimim having a argument with a close relative of Osvaldo Vivas, a municipal councilor he had accused of questionable administrative practices.
A martial arts black belt, Vivas himself then intervened and began hitting Monassa until he collapsed. He was rushed to the intensive care unit of a nearby hospital where he died of his injuries.
Source
The attack took place when Monassa was in a central square in the town of Guapirimim having a argument with a close relative of Osvaldo Vivas, a municipal councilor he had accused of questionable administrative practices.
A martial arts black belt, Vivas himself then intervened and began hitting Monassa until he collapsed. He was rushed to the intensive care unit of a nearby hospital where he died of his injuries.
Source
Woman-like attitude
Being just a little bit sexist here, are we? And are we talking about the same species here?
"They do not have women-like attitude and behavior, shyness or modesty."
Story:
Bangladesh -- The female pickets that demonstrate along the streets of Dhaka during the opposition programs are neither housewives nor political activists, rather seem to be trained foreign terrorists or private force.
The aggressive behavior of the female demonstrators during the recent general strike called by the Awami Leage led 14-party alliance proves that they are strongly motivated and trained and belong to some unknown private force to create untoward situation Bangladesh in the name of imposing general strike.
Seeing their unprecedented behavior, questions arise even among the common people whether these women are housewives or political activities or members of private clubs having training on 'kumpo' and 'karate'.
They do not have women-like attitude and behavior, shyness or modesty. They don't mind if their clothes are displaced or even torn. Their behavior is contrary to the traditional suavity, softness, mildness and civility of our women community.
Source
"They do not have women-like attitude and behavior, shyness or modesty."
Story:
Bangladesh -- The female pickets that demonstrate along the streets of Dhaka during the opposition programs are neither housewives nor political activists, rather seem to be trained foreign terrorists or private force.
The aggressive behavior of the female demonstrators during the recent general strike called by the Awami Leage led 14-party alliance proves that they are strongly motivated and trained and belong to some unknown private force to create untoward situation Bangladesh in the name of imposing general strike.
Seeing their unprecedented behavior, questions arise even among the common people whether these women are housewives or political activities or members of private clubs having training on 'kumpo' and 'karate'.
They do not have women-like attitude and behavior, shyness or modesty. They don't mind if their clothes are displaced or even torn. Their behavior is contrary to the traditional suavity, softness, mildness and civility of our women community.
Source
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
The Silver Fox
Now here's a wise man - I urge you to listen carefully to what he has to say about staying active!
Story:
Before you hear about the 70-year-old man who recently earned a black belt in karate, you should know this: John T. Harris, 70, is built like a linebacker.
But you should also know this: Four years ago, he couldn't even bathe himself.
A fall from a tree at the end of 2000 left his back broken in two places and left Harris unable to care for himself. His body became covered in blood clots.
Source
Story:
Before you hear about the 70-year-old man who recently earned a black belt in karate, you should know this: John T. Harris, 70, is built like a linebacker.
But you should also know this: Four years ago, he couldn't even bathe himself.
A fall from a tree at the end of 2000 left his back broken in two places and left Harris unable to care for himself. His body became covered in blood clots.
Source
Master grandma
In an earlier post ('she's a pedigree') I talked about Keiko Fukuda sensei, the 92-year-old 9th dan judo legend.Madam Fukuda has Parkinson’s Disease, arthritis in every joint, a triple bypass, and has recovered from two heart attacks, but she's still on the mat teaching and keeping a watchful eye - talk about spirit!
Most people don't even live to get to that age.
Here's a clip showing the inspirational lady in action.
You can get the clip here (4.89MB, flv file).
You'll need the free flv-player installed to view flv clips on your own computer.
"Blind Fury"
In an interview, nothing seems unusual about Jason Keaton. The 28-year-old mixed martial artist is 5-foot-11 and 190 pounds of mostly muscle on a wiry frame.
He has short-cropped blond hair, glasses and is well-spoken, with a voice that sometimes betrays the passion he feels for his sport and way of life. He is courteous and patient with newcomers asking questions.
But his nickname is "Blind Fury" for a reason. Keaton is legally blind.
Source
He has short-cropped blond hair, glasses and is well-spoken, with a voice that sometimes betrays the passion he feels for his sport and way of life. He is courteous and patient with newcomers asking questions.
But his nickname is "Blind Fury" for a reason. Keaton is legally blind.
Source
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Sumo struggles
Japan's proud national sport, sumo, has more to it than just putting two large, semi-naked people in a ring and have them try to push each other, they say.
"People think it's so easy, but they should try it and see for themselves how difficult it is," Kotooshu, the first European to ever proceed to the second-highest rank of sumo in Japan, explained.
Kotooshu incorporated the techniques particular to sumo in his Western wrestling skills. Within three years and two months, the Bulgarian native climbed the ladder to the second-highest rank of ozeki in Japan.
Source
"People think it's so easy, but they should try it and see for themselves how difficult it is," Kotooshu, the first European to ever proceed to the second-highest rank of sumo in Japan, explained.
Kotooshu incorporated the techniques particular to sumo in his Western wrestling skills. Within three years and two months, the Bulgarian native climbed the ladder to the second-highest rank of ozeki in Japan.
Source
A fighting chance
The end of the school day marks the beginning of an even tougher class for 12-year-old Thai twin sisters Phannipa and Sawinee Chaithes.
When other students at Suksawittaya school in the N N Maprang district of Phitsanulok province head out to play, the twins swap their books for muay thai boxing gloves.
Many like Phannipa and Sawinee have to help earn a living and school director Chuchart Khumpuang acknowledges the difficulties they face. He, too, boxed for a living when young and now hopes combining education and sports in school will give the children a fighting chance at life.
It's a physically punishing jab at success -- the children chalk up five hours of physical exercise each day that includes two daily runs totalling 11 kilometres and rigorous circuit training.
Source
Read more martial arts news at: Your Martial Arts Resources
When other students at Suksawittaya school in the N N Maprang district of Phitsanulok province head out to play, the twins swap their books for muay thai boxing gloves.
Many like Phannipa and Sawinee have to help earn a living and school director Chuchart Khumpuang acknowledges the difficulties they face. He, too, boxed for a living when young and now hopes combining education and sports in school will give the children a fighting chance at life.
It's a physically punishing jab at success -- the children chalk up five hours of physical exercise each day that includes two daily runs totalling 11 kilometres and rigorous circuit training.
Source
Read more martial arts news at: Your Martial Arts Resources
Steroid stupidity
Police and U.S. Customs officials tracked a package containing 12 syringes loaded with steroids to a motorcycle shop in Barstow, where a 27-year-old professional cage fighter was arrested in connection with the illegal transport and possession of the drugs.
U.S. Customs officials contacted Barstow police Tuesday regarding a package of injectable testosterone-based steroids that had been shipped into the United States from Central America, and was bound for the motorcycle shop.
Steroids are often used by bodybuilders and athletes to enhance physical performance. The 27-year-old suspect is a professional cage fighter who has fought in various cage-fighting venues, police said.
Source
U.S. Customs officials contacted Barstow police Tuesday regarding a package of injectable testosterone-based steroids that had been shipped into the United States from Central America, and was bound for the motorcycle shop.
Steroids are often used by bodybuilders and athletes to enhance physical performance. The 27-year-old suspect is a professional cage fighter who has fought in various cage-fighting venues, police said.
Source
Monday, July 24, 2006
Convicted
Seems like the "aggressive defense strategy" didn't work after all...
Story:
The "father of gene therapy" is convicted of continuously molesting a colleague's daughter, starting when she was 10.
William French Anderson, 69, was convicted of one count of repeated sexual abuse of a child under age 14, and three counts of committing a lewd act on a child.
Prosecutors accused Anderson of molesting the now 19-year-old girl from 1997 to 2001. The abuse began when the girl took martial arts lessons at his home in San Marino, California.
Source
Story:
The "father of gene therapy" is convicted of continuously molesting a colleague's daughter, starting when she was 10.
William French Anderson, 69, was convicted of one count of repeated sexual abuse of a child under age 14, and three counts of committing a lewd act on a child.
Prosecutors accused Anderson of molesting the now 19-year-old girl from 1997 to 2001. The abuse began when the girl took martial arts lessons at his home in San Marino, California.
Source
Oh boy...
Wales, UK -- A schoolboy martial arts champion hanged himself with his black belt after a row with his mum, an inquest was told yesterday.
Sports fanatic Lewis Fullwood, 13, told his mother he wanted a day off school, but she refused to let him skip classes.
Mum Sarah Fullwood found Lewis 15 minutes later hanged from his prized black belt on his Tae Kwondo suit. Lewis was a black belt in the martial arts and also captain of his school rugby team.
Source
Sports fanatic Lewis Fullwood, 13, told his mother he wanted a day off school, but she refused to let him skip classes.
Mum Sarah Fullwood found Lewis 15 minutes later hanged from his prized black belt on his Tae Kwondo suit. Lewis was a black belt in the martial arts and also captain of his school rugby team.
Source
Sunday, July 23, 2006
An average guy
He's an average guy, a recreational athlete who probably will never make another sports headline.
But that doesn't matter to Keith Fitz-Gerald, who realized 20 seconds after finishing the recent Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon that he had done something special.
Fitz-Gerald had come within "a couple foot-pounds of pressure" of shattering his spine eight years earlier. A martial artist, he got his head and shoulder protection equipment caught with his opponent while sparring, and his neck got compressed and ripped sideways, he says.
The injuries would have spelled the end to many athletic careers. But Fitz-Gerald, now 41, fought back through patient rehabilitation and martial arts, and eventually engaged in triathlons, all the while dealing with pain and limited flexibility in his neck. After winning a lottery to enter the prestigious Escape From Alcatraz, he took it on.
Source
But that doesn't matter to Keith Fitz-Gerald, who realized 20 seconds after finishing the recent Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon that he had done something special.
Fitz-Gerald had come within "a couple foot-pounds of pressure" of shattering his spine eight years earlier. A martial artist, he got his head and shoulder protection equipment caught with his opponent while sparring, and his neck got compressed and ripped sideways, he says.
The injuries would have spelled the end to many athletic careers. But Fitz-Gerald, now 41, fought back through patient rehabilitation and martial arts, and eventually engaged in triathlons, all the while dealing with pain and limited flexibility in his neck. After winning a lottery to enter the prestigious Escape From Alcatraz, he took it on.
Source
Out for a soda
Obviously a very determined man, as well as someone with many talents; impressive!
Story:
Preston Barden, 46, of Collingswood, NJ is walking from New York City to Los Angeles and back in an effort to raise money for children stricken with cancer.
"I told my wife I was going out for a soda and I'd be right back," Barden joked. He won't return home for a long time.
His 5,900-mile trek to Los Angeles and back will be daunting, and he hopes to break the Guinness Book of World Records for the fastest time across America on foot on a never previously attempted "round trip."
Barden began training in the martial arts in 1978, and has continued training to this day. He has four black belts. Barden is a certified welder, a certified commercial scuba diver, has a Master's of Arts in physical education, a Master's of Arts in occupational Chinese medicine, and a Doctorate in Divinity as an ordained reverend. He is also a flute designer, painter and a carpenter.
Source
Story:
Preston Barden, 46, of Collingswood, NJ is walking from New York City to Los Angeles and back in an effort to raise money for children stricken with cancer.
"I told my wife I was going out for a soda and I'd be right back," Barden joked. He won't return home for a long time.
His 5,900-mile trek to Los Angeles and back will be daunting, and he hopes to break the Guinness Book of World Records for the fastest time across America on foot on a never previously attempted "round trip."
Barden began training in the martial arts in 1978, and has continued training to this day. He has four black belts. Barden is a certified welder, a certified commercial scuba diver, has a Master's of Arts in physical education, a Master's of Arts in occupational Chinese medicine, and a Doctorate in Divinity as an ordained reverend. He is also a flute designer, painter and a carpenter.
Source
Clarifying the legend
Hong Kong -- Bruce Lee's family is set to tackle unspecified "fabricated or exaggerated" stories about the late kung fu legend by making a movie and publishing a book about him, his brother said.
"To this day, many stories about Bruce Lee continue to be told, many of which are fabricated or exaggerated," Robert Lee, president of the Bruce Lee Club, said in a statement.
"Today, as Bruce's brothers and sisters are getting older, and in order to help the public understand the real life of Bruce Lee, Robert has been appointed a very heavy responsibility from the family to clarify the legend of Bruce Lee," the statement added.
Lee said the film would be planned and produced by the family, with auditions for the lead role beginning soon.
Source
"To this day, many stories about Bruce Lee continue to be told, many of which are fabricated or exaggerated," Robert Lee, president of the Bruce Lee Club, said in a statement.
"Today, as Bruce's brothers and sisters are getting older, and in order to help the public understand the real life of Bruce Lee, Robert has been appointed a very heavy responsibility from the family to clarify the legend of Bruce Lee," the statement added.
Lee said the film would be planned and produced by the family, with auditions for the lead role beginning soon.
Source
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Jailbird kicks, chops
What do you mean - no karate kicks or judo chops?
Story:
Kung-fu kicks and karate chops from a man leaving Markham courthouse injured two sheriff's deputies over the weekend and landed the accused assailant in jail.
The 18-year-old was spotted looking into squad cars in the courthouse parking lot when he was challenged by a deputy, said a Cook County sheriff's office spokesman.
The man headed toward the preschool at the south end of the parking lot and tried to open a door. The deputy tried to stop him and was attacked.
The suspect kicked off his shoes, charged the deputy and jumped into the air and kicked the deputy.
Source
Story:
Kung-fu kicks and karate chops from a man leaving Markham courthouse injured two sheriff's deputies over the weekend and landed the accused assailant in jail.
The 18-year-old was spotted looking into squad cars in the courthouse parking lot when he was challenged by a deputy, said a Cook County sheriff's office spokesman.
The man headed toward the preschool at the south end of the parking lot and tried to open a door. The deputy tried to stop him and was attacked.
The suspect kicked off his shoes, charged the deputy and jumped into the air and kicked the deputy.
Source
'Bad' granny
A Chinese grandmother has pulled a four tonne truck, loaded with people - using only her teeth.
Wang Xiaobei, a 72-year-old from the Shandong province, successfully dragged the truck for more than ten metres.
The grandmother revealed her incredible strength was a result of 30 years of martial arts training.
Source
Wang Xiaobei, a 72-year-old from the Shandong province, successfully dragged the truck for more than ten metres.
The grandmother revealed her incredible strength was a result of 30 years of martial arts training.
Source
Fighting Parkinson's
Ken Marvin's left pinky started shaking while he was in the midst of testing for his black belt in aikido. Ken thought he'd pinched a nerve, but he put it on the back burner until the six-month-long test was over.
Ken earned his black belt, but the pinky kept shaking. In January, he finally saw his doctor, who referred him to the first of several specialists. In March, the verdict came in: early-onset Parkinson's.
In a similar fashion to aikido, Ken was able to ward off the punch of Parkinson's by rolling with it.
His disease progression has been slow. Six years since his symptoms first appeared, there should be wrist rigidity by now, but Ken believes the regular wrist exercises have kept that joint flexible.
Source
Ken earned his black belt, but the pinky kept shaking. In January, he finally saw his doctor, who referred him to the first of several specialists. In March, the verdict came in: early-onset Parkinson's.
In a similar fashion to aikido, Ken was able to ward off the punch of Parkinson's by rolling with it.
His disease progression has been slow. Six years since his symptoms first appeared, there should be wrist rigidity by now, but Ken believes the regular wrist exercises have kept that joint flexible.
Source
Friday, July 21, 2006
Sword and flies
Here's a funny clip of a younger man challenging an older kung-fu master.They are both more than able sword fighters, but the old man has a definite edge - something a poor fly has to live with...
It's an old joke, but still very funny to watch!
You can download the clip here (0.94 MB, flv file)
You will need to have the free flv-player installed to view flv clips on your own computer.
Not guilty, he says
A 62-year-old Russellville karate instructor arrested and cited last month with indecent exposure and loitering at a Conway public park pleaded innocent to his charges Monday.
According to reports, Ward allegedly approached an undercover deputy near a pavilion at about 6 p.m. and began touching himself inappropriately, ultimately exposing his genitals during the conversation.
When the deputy informed Ward who he was, the report stated Ward tried to run away. The officer grabbed Ward's shirt to catch him, but when he tried to place handcuffs on Ward, the karate instructor allegedly grabbed the cuffs and attempted to hit the officer.
Source
According to reports, Ward allegedly approached an undercover deputy near a pavilion at about 6 p.m. and began touching himself inappropriately, ultimately exposing his genitals during the conversation.
When the deputy informed Ward who he was, the report stated Ward tried to run away. The officer grabbed Ward's shirt to catch him, but when he tried to place handcuffs on Ward, the karate instructor allegedly grabbed the cuffs and attempted to hit the officer.
Source
Defying age
Three days a week, 60-year-old Jim Louth decides to defy his age.
He goes to his basement, fully equipped with a kickboxing ring, and teaches kids, some of whom are 40 years younger, how to perfect the martial arts style.
He began teaching kickboxing in 1981, six years after he received his black belt in tae kwon do. His martial arts interest sprang from an era when Bruce Lee doing push-ups on two fingers was entertaining American movie audiences.
Source
He goes to his basement, fully equipped with a kickboxing ring, and teaches kids, some of whom are 40 years younger, how to perfect the martial arts style.
He began teaching kickboxing in 1981, six years after he received his black belt in tae kwon do. His martial arts interest sprang from an era when Bruce Lee doing push-ups on two fingers was entertaining American movie audiences.
Source
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Battling rare disease
A seven-year-old boy recently diagnosed with a rare disease has found an unusual prescription to deal with the illness.
There is nothing Toby McQueen loves more than karate. His coping mechanism is training to be the next "karate kid".
His mom, Tanya McQueen, said it's made a big difference--not just in his body--but in his head, and his heart.
"It helps him deal with his anger, it also helps just with the exercise part, because he's allergic to everything outside, so the exercise really helps him," she said.
Source
There is nothing Toby McQueen loves more than karate. His coping mechanism is training to be the next "karate kid".
His mom, Tanya McQueen, said it's made a big difference--not just in his body--but in his head, and his heart.
"It helps him deal with his anger, it also helps just with the exercise part, because he's allergic to everything outside, so the exercise really helps him," she said.
Source
Con fu
A Quakertown martial arts instructor who stalked his former girlfriend and tried to break into her Bushkill Township home will spend up to 10 years in state prison.
The 41-year-old man pleaded guilty June 6 to stalking and trespass. The judge said that although Bell had not been violent, he had stalked another woman several years ago and ''apparently hasn't learned his lesson.''
The former girlfriend wrote a statement that she had a friend read in court. ''I really think he is a very sick man,'' the statement said, adding that he would ''use and abuse anyone.'' In the statement she said he is a manipulator who ''could con the stripes off a zebra.''
Source
The 41-year-old man pleaded guilty June 6 to stalking and trespass. The judge said that although Bell had not been violent, he had stalked another woman several years ago and ''apparently hasn't learned his lesson.''
The former girlfriend wrote a statement that she had a friend read in court. ''I really think he is a very sick man,'' the statement said, adding that he would ''use and abuse anyone.'' In the statement she said he is a manipulator who ''could con the stripes off a zebra.''
Source
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
He crossed the line
Indianapolis - Detectives, armed with an arrest warrant, are looking for an instructor who taught karate at a Family Center where two former students say he crossed the line.
Two brothers, ages 12 and 15 at the time, say in 1999 the man began touching them inappropriately during karate classes.
The boys told investigators the abuse happened repeatedly and eventually went beyond class.
Source
Two brothers, ages 12 and 15 at the time, say in 1999 the man began touching them inappropriately during karate classes.
The boys told investigators the abuse happened repeatedly and eventually went beyond class.
Source
Wife-battering karateka
Zimbabwe: President Robert Mugabe's spokesman George Charamba attempted to kill his wife, Rudo, "in cold blood" and later staged a cover-up, according to former Information Minister Professor Jonathan Moyo.
Moyo would not say if Charamba's alleged attempt to "murder" his wife was on February 24, 2005 -- the only publicly known wife-battering incident by Charamba which Zimbabwean prosecutors were instructed not to pursue.
On that day, Charamba is said to have beat his wife "severely", then assaulted her baby "badly", according to disclosures in Zanu PF's official newspaper, The Voice.
When he was confronted on the charge, Charamba -- said to have a black belt in karate -- referred questions to his lawyer Johannes Tomana who claimed the case had been withdrawn by Charamba's wife.
Source
Moyo would not say if Charamba's alleged attempt to "murder" his wife was on February 24, 2005 -- the only publicly known wife-battering incident by Charamba which Zimbabwean prosecutors were instructed not to pursue.
On that day, Charamba is said to have beat his wife "severely", then assaulted her baby "badly", according to disclosures in Zanu PF's official newspaper, The Voice.
When he was confronted on the charge, Charamba -- said to have a black belt in karate -- referred questions to his lawyer Johannes Tomana who claimed the case had been withdrawn by Charamba's wife.
Source
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Loads of confidence
Mumbai, India: Over 60 women participate in self-defence workshop, pick up basic judo, karate and loads of confidence.
Until a fortnight ago, Sayli Pawar (37) was like one of those innumerable women who are too inhibited to fight against sexual abuse. But having undergone a 15-day training in self-defence organised by her employers, the Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC), Pawar is prepared for the worst.
"Earlier, when someone would deliberately brush past me on the road, I would be too scared to even react. But now I know how to deal with such people," says the Kalyan resident who wants to train her daughter too in self-defence.
Source
Until a fortnight ago, Sayli Pawar (37) was like one of those innumerable women who are too inhibited to fight against sexual abuse. But having undergone a 15-day training in self-defence organised by her employers, the Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC), Pawar is prepared for the worst.
"Earlier, when someone would deliberately brush past me on the road, I would be too scared to even react. But now I know how to deal with such people," says the Kalyan resident who wants to train her daughter too in self-defence.
Source
Sumo fury
So much for the friendly giants of sumo...
Story:
The Russian sumo wrestler Roho faces a ban from Japan's ancient sport after throwing a temper tantrum in the wake of a defeat on Saturday.
Sunday's newspapers carried pictures of Roho in various stages of combustion after the red mist enveloped him in Nagoya.
Roho, nicknamed the "Russian bear", chased opponent Chiyotaikai into a bathroom after an explosive bout where both men broke several of sumo's strict rules of engagement.
Source
Story:
The Russian sumo wrestler Roho faces a ban from Japan's ancient sport after throwing a temper tantrum in the wake of a defeat on Saturday.
Sunday's newspapers carried pictures of Roho in various stages of combustion after the red mist enveloped him in Nagoya.
Roho, nicknamed the "Russian bear", chased opponent Chiyotaikai into a bathroom after an explosive bout where both men broke several of sumo's strict rules of engagement.
Source
Monday, July 17, 2006
Still no sign
Apparently there's still no sign of the taekwondo team that was kidnapped in Irak two months ago.
Story:
Two months after 17 men were abducted, relatives watch the morgue and grasp at clues, however flimsy the source.
The athletes disappeared two months ago, as if swallowed by the desert.
In all, there were 17 men — youthful taekwondo competitors and coaches on their way to the U.S. Embassy in Amman, Jordan, hoping for visas that would land them in a Las Vegas tournament.
They were traveling in two of the taxis that negotiate one of the most dangerous stretches of road in the world: the searing desert highway between Baghdad and the border.
Source
Story:
Two months after 17 men were abducted, relatives watch the morgue and grasp at clues, however flimsy the source.
The athletes disappeared two months ago, as if swallowed by the desert.
In all, there were 17 men — youthful taekwondo competitors and coaches on their way to the U.S. Embassy in Amman, Jordan, hoping for visas that would land them in a Las Vegas tournament.
They were traveling in two of the taxis that negotiate one of the most dangerous stretches of road in the world: the searing desert highway between Baghdad and the border.
Source
Beating the odds
It is not an easy task winning a karate world championship - and it is even more difficult when you are confined to a wheelchair.
Dirk van der Merwe, 33, with all the odds stacked against him, won first place in the Kata division at the Tenshinkan World Championships out of 25 able-bodied people from the US, Japan and South Africa.
Tenshinkan is a type of karate style.
Source
Dirk van der Merwe, 33, with all the odds stacked against him, won first place in the Kata division at the Tenshinkan World Championships out of 25 able-bodied people from the US, Japan and South Africa.
Tenshinkan is a type of karate style.
Source
Sunday, July 16, 2006
Oyama fighting
Here's a small clip showing Masutatsu Oyama (1923-1994) in a couple of fighting sequences.Masutatsu ("Mas") Oyama was the founder of Kyokushin karate, and one tough individual.
You can see some of the power that master Oyama was famous for.
I can only have nothing but the highest respect for the student/partner in this clip - knowing he's going to be knocked down!
You can view the clip here (1.34MB, wmv file)
You'll find many more interesting clips at Your Martial Arts Resources
Confuse-Us speaks #3
Karate or judo - close enough for the media I guess?
Oh well, I guess you can't expect more from people who call every kind of kick a "karate-kick", or anyone with a black belt "an expert".
Story:
Asked by the "Today" show's Matt Lauer about the recent caning Vice President Cheney gave him and Russia, President Vladimir Putin gave this cocky and cutting reply:
"I think these kinds of comments from your vice president amount to the same thing as an unfortunate shot while hunting."
Putin, a black belt in karate and the man into whose soul Bush famously saw five years ago, as he gazed into the eyes of that ex-KGB officer, takes no guff from these Americans.
Source
Oh well, I guess you can't expect more from people who call every kind of kick a "karate-kick", or anyone with a black belt "an expert".
Story:
Asked by the "Today" show's Matt Lauer about the recent caning Vice President Cheney gave him and Russia, President Vladimir Putin gave this cocky and cutting reply:
"I think these kinds of comments from your vice president amount to the same thing as an unfortunate shot while hunting."
Putin, a black belt in karate and the man into whose soul Bush famously saw five years ago, as he gazed into the eyes of that ex-KGB officer, takes no guff from these Americans.
Source
Kung fu nut
UK -- Police were yesterday hunting a man who lashed out with lethal martial arts sticks during a nasty street assault in the East End of Paisley.
The mystery attacker leapt out of a tenement close wielding Nunchakas – a Chinese martial arts weapon often used on the big screen by actor Bruce Lee in the popular Kung Fu movies.
Source
The mystery attacker leapt out of a tenement close wielding Nunchakas – a Chinese martial arts weapon often used on the big screen by actor Bruce Lee in the popular Kung Fu movies.
Source
Saturday, July 15, 2006
How do you fu?
Michelle Spencer is among 30 contestants in "Final Fu," a reality TV series that begins airing Monday on MTV and MTV2.
Even at age 4, she knew she would never be the girl with blush on her cheeks and bows in her hair, twisting and twirling for the judges.
"I was kind of in gymnastics, and a girl on floor routine flicked her wrist down to be cute, and I thought, 'Oh God, this is too girly for me.' "I was loud. I liked yelling."
Which came in handy when Spencer joined her brother's class in tae kwon do, the Korean martial art similar to karate. Martial arts proved a perfect fit, and over the years, the 20-year-old Sparks resident added muay Thai kickboxing and Brazilian jiu jitsu to her training.
Source
Even at age 4, she knew she would never be the girl with blush on her cheeks and bows in her hair, twisting and twirling for the judges.
"I was kind of in gymnastics, and a girl on floor routine flicked her wrist down to be cute, and I thought, 'Oh God, this is too girly for me.' "I was loud. I liked yelling."
Which came in handy when Spencer joined her brother's class in tae kwon do, the Korean martial art similar to karate. Martial arts proved a perfect fit, and over the years, the 20-year-old Sparks resident added muay Thai kickboxing and Brazilian jiu jitsu to her training.
Source
Never saw it coming
From watching this video, you'll see four things:
A. This is one brutal individual.
B. He has little or no martial arts training
C. It is not a side kick (more a football kind of kick)
D. Media continue to call it a karate kick or martial arts kick no matter what
Story:
Missouri -- The video store clerk says she never saw the attack coming.
Surveillance tape explains why. If you watch closely you see the suspect speaking casually with Su in the adult section, right before he moves in for the kick.
Investigators say the man might have had some kind of martial arts training. The video shows him turning his entire body before extending his leg in a side-kick, catching Su squarely in the face.
Source
A. This is one brutal individual.
B. He has little or no martial arts training
C. It is not a side kick (more a football kind of kick)
D. Media continue to call it a karate kick or martial arts kick no matter what
Story:
Missouri -- The video store clerk says she never saw the attack coming.
Surveillance tape explains why. If you watch closely you see the suspect speaking casually with Su in the adult section, right before he moves in for the kick.
Investigators say the man might have had some kind of martial arts training. The video shows him turning his entire body before extending his leg in a side-kick, catching Su squarely in the face.
Source
Friday, July 14, 2006
Active body and mind
South Africa -- If you are among the 30 000 people expected to take part in the Discovery 702 Walk the Talk event next Sunday, don't be surprised if a sprightly granny overtakes you.
Seventy-nine-year-old Truus Palmer - a grandmother of eight - walks 5km twice a week, attends weekly tai chi classes and will be attempting the 10km fun walk at the Marks Park Sports Club in Emmarentia on July 23.
"You have to keep body and mind active you know!" laughs Palmer.
She attributes her longevity not only to her healthy lifestyle, but also to the "positive attitude to life" she's adopted.
Source
Seventy-nine-year-old Truus Palmer - a grandmother of eight - walks 5km twice a week, attends weekly tai chi classes and will be attempting the 10km fun walk at the Marks Park Sports Club in Emmarentia on July 23.
"You have to keep body and mind active you know!" laughs Palmer.
She attributes her longevity not only to her healthy lifestyle, but also to the "positive attitude to life" she's adopted.
Source
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Key figure
There are many martial arts masters with a great sense of humor - here's one.
Story:
Each morning, Takeno Takafumi would open the doors to his dojo in Yamanashi, Japan, and clean the place himself.
The chore takes an hour but it is something the Yoshinkan Aikido master does willingly himself.
“It is my dojo,” said Takafumi, explaining why he does not ask his students to do the job.
“And also because I’m the one with the key.”
Source
Story:
Each morning, Takeno Takafumi would open the doors to his dojo in Yamanashi, Japan, and clean the place himself.
The chore takes an hour but it is something the Yoshinkan Aikido master does willingly himself.
“It is my dojo,” said Takafumi, explaining why he does not ask his students to do the job.
“And also because I’m the one with the key.”
Source
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Still up and kicking
At 75 years old, Lou Davis is still up and kicking. Literally.
The tae kwon do black belt revamped his youth group during the past year to raise money for diabetes research.
"Diabetes is not only affecting the elderly now, it's hitting the kids because they are not active enough," he said.
Davis' group, Martial Artists Against Drugs, encourages kids to be involved in sports to keep them away from drugs and violence. He began using the organization to put together fund-raisers for cancer and now diabetes.
Source
The tae kwon do black belt revamped his youth group during the past year to raise money for diabetes research.
"Diabetes is not only affecting the elderly now, it's hitting the kids because they are not active enough," he said.
Davis' group, Martial Artists Against Drugs, encourages kids to be involved in sports to keep them away from drugs and violence. He began using the organization to put together fund-raisers for cancer and now diabetes.
Source
Quite remarkable
When the young patients of the Children's Hospital of Orange County in Orange, California, enroll in occupational therapist Wayne Centra's karate class, something quite remarkable occurs.
Whether they're feeble from months of suffering, overweight and lethargic from chemotherapy or simply lacking the confidence to reenter life outside the ward, Wayne revives his kids' fighting spirit:
"I see these kids come into the hospital fearful of any interaction,” says Wayne, “then they take these classes, the change is amazing. They become empowered and realize they deserve to be treated like everyone else."
Source
Whether they're feeble from months of suffering, overweight and lethargic from chemotherapy or simply lacking the confidence to reenter life outside the ward, Wayne revives his kids' fighting spirit:
"I see these kids come into the hospital fearful of any interaction,” says Wayne, “then they take these classes, the change is amazing. They become empowered and realize they deserve to be treated like everyone else."
Source
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Drunken kung-fu
How embarrassing...
Story:
Hong Kong -- An apparently intoxicated Jackie Chan disrupted a concert by Taiwanese singer-songwriter Jonathan Lee in Hong Kong and exchanged insults with the audience, a news report said Tuesday.
Ming Pao Daily News said Chan suddenly jumped on stage at the concert Monday night and demanded a duet with Lee. He then tried to conduct the band but stopped and restarted the music several times, Ming Pao said.
Source
Story:
Hong Kong -- An apparently intoxicated Jackie Chan disrupted a concert by Taiwanese singer-songwriter Jonathan Lee in Hong Kong and exchanged insults with the audience, a news report said Tuesday.
Ming Pao Daily News said Chan suddenly jumped on stage at the concert Monday night and demanded a duet with Lee. He then tried to conduct the band but stopped and restarted the music several times, Ming Pao said.
Source
64 years young
I thought for a moment it read "The American Association of Retarded People" :-) Guess I need to get my eyes fixed.
Story:
The American Association of Retired People proclaimed in an article that 60 had become the new 30. In other words, the same generation that looked at 30 as old looks at 60 as young.
"If people start thinking about being old, then they are old," said Sally Burke, a martial arts instructor.
Burke, who turns 65 in December, was raising "two little kids back in Pennsylvania" when the Beatles song ('When I'm Sixty-Four') came out.
"I never dreamed my life would take this direction," she said. As her children grew older, and her marriage broke apart, Burke looked for fulfillment through tae kwon do.
Now, she is a third-degree black belt with dreams of reaching the ultimate rank of master one day. She teaches at Space Coast Martial Arts in Cocoa Beach and Merritt Island.
"It may take until I'm 75 or older, but I'll become a master," vowed Burke, who has overcome a spinal condition to perfect her martial-arts skills.
Source
Story:
The American Association of Retired People proclaimed in an article that 60 had become the new 30. In other words, the same generation that looked at 30 as old looks at 60 as young.
"If people start thinking about being old, then they are old," said Sally Burke, a martial arts instructor.
Burke, who turns 65 in December, was raising "two little kids back in Pennsylvania" when the Beatles song ('When I'm Sixty-Four') came out.
"I never dreamed my life would take this direction," she said. As her children grew older, and her marriage broke apart, Burke looked for fulfillment through tae kwon do.
Now, she is a third-degree black belt with dreams of reaching the ultimate rank of master one day. She teaches at Space Coast Martial Arts in Cocoa Beach and Merritt Island.
"It may take until I'm 75 or older, but I'll become a master," vowed Burke, who has overcome a spinal condition to perfect her martial-arts skills.
Source
Tigers look East
As long as they don't get in touch with their inner yogurt, I guess it's all swell?
Story:
The Missouri Tigers are getting in touch with their inner yogi.
Hoping to spice up the off-season routine of running and lifting weights, Missouri strength and conditioning coach Pat Ivey added yoga to the Tigers’ voluntary summer regimen.
Yoga is not all Missouri has added to the summer schedule. This week, Missouri’s offensive and defensive linemen begin martial arts classes taught by Ivey’s newest staff member, Sean Edinger, a former member of the U.S. national karate team.
Source
Story:
The Missouri Tigers are getting in touch with their inner yogi.
Hoping to spice up the off-season routine of running and lifting weights, Missouri strength and conditioning coach Pat Ivey added yoga to the Tigers’ voluntary summer regimen.
Yoga is not all Missouri has added to the summer schedule. This week, Missouri’s offensive and defensive linemen begin martial arts classes taught by Ivey’s newest staff member, Sean Edinger, a former member of the U.S. national karate team.
Source
Monday, July 10, 2006
Facing charges
A 34-year-old Georgia chiropractor and martial arts instructor who is facing child pornography charges in his home state has been arrested by Suffield police on charges that include enticing a minor via the computer, authorities said.
The Marietta man was arraigned in Enfield Superior Court on Thursday after turning himself in at the Suffield Police Department, where he was wanted on a warrant.
Police said the charges came about after the man contacted a 15-year-old Suffield boy over the Internet. Suffield police began investigating the case on May 31.
Source
The Marietta man was arraigned in Enfield Superior Court on Thursday after turning himself in at the Suffield Police Department, where he was wanted on a warrant.
Police said the charges came about after the man contacted a 15-year-old Suffield boy over the Internet. Suffield police began investigating the case on May 31.
Source
Shootfighting?
Wow, this is an interesting new take on karate!
It seems that doing karate also makes you able and willing to fight back with a firearm. Oh dear, I guess I've been watching the wrong form of karate all this time.
Story:
Philippines -- Since his arrest in May 2004 for illegal possession of firearms, Ananias “Naning” Dy reportedly did not bring firearms outside his house.
His son Gonzaga added that his father was trained in karate and that he would not have hesitated to fight back had he been armed.
Source
It seems that doing karate also makes you able and willing to fight back with a firearm. Oh dear, I guess I've been watching the wrong form of karate all this time.
Story:
Philippines -- Since his arrest in May 2004 for illegal possession of firearms, Ananias “Naning” Dy reportedly did not bring firearms outside his house.
His son Gonzaga added that his father was trained in karate and that he would not have hesitated to fight back had he been armed.
Source
Good for business
I can easily attest to the positive effect described here - that of being more secure with public speaking.
Story:
Seth Solomon said Tae Kwon Do has helped him become a better businessman.
Solomon, a full-time account executive for CDS Office Products in Thousand Palms - and a second-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do - said he's become more secure with public speaking, for one thing. This skill, in turn, has led to more exposure and more business for his company.
Source
Story:
Seth Solomon said Tae Kwon Do has helped him become a better businessman.
Solomon, a full-time account executive for CDS Office Products in Thousand Palms - and a second-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do - said he's become more secure with public speaking, for one thing. This skill, in turn, has led to more exposure and more business for his company.
Source
Sunday, July 09, 2006
Separating facts and myths
This should be really, really interesting (did I mention really interesting?)!
Story:
It strikes four times faster than a snake. It kicks with more than 1,000 pounds of force. And it can rival the impact of a 35 mph car crash. It′s the most complex weapon ever designed - the human body.
Now, the National Geographic Channel brings together a dream team of scientists, motion-capture specialists and CGI animators, along with a cross-section of champion martial arts masters, to analyze the world's greatest fight techniques.
The tests are designed to separate fighting fact from martial arts myth and provide unprecedented insight into their astounding strengths and capabilities. The results will be presented in the two-hour world premiere special Fight Science, Sunday, August 20, at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
Source
Story:
It strikes four times faster than a snake. It kicks with more than 1,000 pounds of force. And it can rival the impact of a 35 mph car crash. It′s the most complex weapon ever designed - the human body.
Now, the National Geographic Channel brings together a dream team of scientists, motion-capture specialists and CGI animators, along with a cross-section of champion martial arts masters, to analyze the world's greatest fight techniques.
The tests are designed to separate fighting fact from martial arts myth and provide unprecedented insight into their astounding strengths and capabilities. The results will be presented in the two-hour world premiere special Fight Science, Sunday, August 20, at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
Source
Supernanny wanted
Are you a female martial artist and looking for a job? Maybe this would be of interest.
And if you do get the post, could you pleas ask these people why celebrities have to give all sorts of weird names for their kids? Suri... why not Surreal?
Story:
Tom Cruise wants a nanny who's packing more than Pampers in her diaper bag — and can kick bad-guy butt, says an insider. "Tom is very security-conscious, and he'd like to hire a woman who could protect little Suri — not just change her, feed her and sing 'Itsy-Bitsy Spider,'" said the source.
Tom wants a Charlie's Angel-type who has martial arts skills and shooting expertise — but Mama Katie thinks hiring a Super-Nanny would be way over the top, since they already have top-notch security guards.
Source
And if you do get the post, could you pleas ask these people why celebrities have to give all sorts of weird names for their kids? Suri... why not Surreal?
Story:
Tom Cruise wants a nanny who's packing more than Pampers in her diaper bag — and can kick bad-guy butt, says an insider. "Tom is very security-conscious, and he'd like to hire a woman who could protect little Suri — not just change her, feed her and sing 'Itsy-Bitsy Spider,'" said the source.
Tom wants a Charlie's Angel-type who has martial arts skills and shooting expertise — but Mama Katie thinks hiring a Super-Nanny would be way over the top, since they already have top-notch security guards.
Source
Thursday, July 06, 2006
Here's an addict
We talked about being a martial arts addict, and here's an example.I'm not quite sure what this Freddy Mercury clone is addicted to though... (I do however know a couple of guys on amphetamine who can pose like this).
Piece of advice: If you want to make a complete fool of yourself - here's how it's done. There's no way this can be improved!
What can I say - I'm impressed :-)
And you can watch the clip here (5.18MB, mpg)
You can watch more funny martial arts clips here
Almost an addiction
True, it can be almost like an addiction - a positive one I might add!
As soon as you get past the initial phase and you start to get the hang of it, martial arts can be a life-long passion really.
Story:
When Charles Merhib was 39, he saw a demonstration of karate and asked, "Where do you go for this?"
The Wellesley resident was referred to Walter Mattson, an instructor who had a karate school in Natick. Merhib got a free lesson, liked it, joined a class, and 40 years later is still training once a week with Mattson.
Now holding the rank of seventh-degree black belt in Okinawan Uechi-style karate, Merhib said that "it's hard to put down - it's an addiction almost. You do the exercise and you feel good."
Source
As soon as you get past the initial phase and you start to get the hang of it, martial arts can be a life-long passion really.
Story:
When Charles Merhib was 39, he saw a demonstration of karate and asked, "Where do you go for this?"
The Wellesley resident was referred to Walter Mattson, an instructor who had a karate school in Natick. Merhib got a free lesson, liked it, joined a class, and 40 years later is still training once a week with Mattson.
Now holding the rank of seventh-degree black belt in Okinawan Uechi-style karate, Merhib said that "it's hard to put down - it's an addiction almost. You do the exercise and you feel good."
Source
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
A family affair
More and more time-crunched Americans are combining exercise with family time as a way to have fun together while everyone shapes up.
Disturbing reports of rising obesity among children and adults, combined with cutbacks in physical education programs in schools have prompted a boom in family-oriented fitness programs geared to getting children, teens and adults moving.
"Kids' programs, martial arts and nutrition counseling are our three hottest growth areas," says Cathy McNeil, spokeswoman for the International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association.
Source
Disturbing reports of rising obesity among children and adults, combined with cutbacks in physical education programs in schools have prompted a boom in family-oriented fitness programs geared to getting children, teens and adults moving.
"Kids' programs, martial arts and nutrition counseling are our three hottest growth areas," says Cathy McNeil, spokeswoman for the International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association.
Source
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Saving former fireman
Thomas Terbay stashes his walker along the wall of the mirror-lined studio and shuffles to the center of the room. He raises his arms, moving silently through a series of tai chi positions like a martial arts movie in slow motion.
Sweat beads on his forehead, and every few minutes, he pauses to catch his breath. He apologizes, because for the past two months leg pain has kept him from his usual routine of classes at the Tai Chi & Kung Fu academy.
But Terbay, a former firefighter who credits the mental and physical benefits of tai chi with helping him turn his life around, says he'll be back to his regular schedule in a few weeks. And considering the odds he overcame in getting this far, it's not hard to believe him.
Source
Sweat beads on his forehead, and every few minutes, he pauses to catch his breath. He apologizes, because for the past two months leg pain has kept him from his usual routine of classes at the Tai Chi & Kung Fu academy.
But Terbay, a former firefighter who credits the mental and physical benefits of tai chi with helping him turn his life around, says he'll be back to his regular schedule in a few weeks. And considering the odds he overcame in getting this far, it's not hard to believe him.
Source
Presidential karate
It seems the President of Uganda is training karate. Good for him! Someone should tell him it's a judo chop though (über deadly :-)
Story:
Uganda -- Wearing black socks, black sandals and a blue-grey suit, President Museveni said he sprained his foot, the reason for his new footwear statement.
"I have some sprain in the joint, which I keep straining because I cannot keep away from my bad habits of karate. In case you need some karate chop, I can give you one. But there is no problem on that score," said the President, who was in an expansive mood.
Source
Story:
Uganda -- Wearing black socks, black sandals and a blue-grey suit, President Museveni said he sprained his foot, the reason for his new footwear statement.
"I have some sprain in the joint, which I keep straining because I cannot keep away from my bad habits of karate. In case you need some karate chop, I can give you one. But there is no problem on that score," said the President, who was in an expansive mood.
Source
Monday, July 03, 2006
More Bruce Lee
Here's yet another clip with the legendary Bruce Lee.It's a collection of small clips showing him in training, doing exhibitions and interviews.
It is easy to see why he is held in such a high esteem even today.
Very cool!
You can download the clip here (6.74MB wmv)
Banati
India -- It is an act that might scare the best acrobats, but swinging heavy iron extensions tied to a jute rope is a passion that is keenly pursued by the few remaining performers of "Banati", a martial art form of Orissa.
Banati is an age-old art, in which a person spins balls set on fire and tied to the ends of a rope.
There are three forms of Banati - Gola Banati, Churi Banati and Fire Banati - named after the different patterns formed by whirling the rope in the air. The participants have to be very careful while performing the art, as even a bit of negligence can cause them massive damage.
Source
Banati is an age-old art, in which a person spins balls set on fire and tied to the ends of a rope.
There are three forms of Banati - Gola Banati, Churi Banati and Fire Banati - named after the different patterns formed by whirling the rope in the air. The participants have to be very careful while performing the art, as even a bit of negligence can cause them massive damage.
Source
Sunday, July 02, 2006
New and improved
Nothing unusual about this martial arts training, except that Mr. Ritonia is paralyzed on his left side and working out of a wheelchair.
It is hard to reconcile the man in the wheelchair with the person he used to be: sheltered, shy and afraid to venture outdoors for fear of running into a bully.
That was the old Alonzo. Meet the new and improved Alonzo, dressed in the traditional do bok and training in the Monongahela martial arts studio. He was "reborn" when his aunt suggested martial arts lessons.
Source
It is hard to reconcile the man in the wheelchair with the person he used to be: sheltered, shy and afraid to venture outdoors for fear of running into a bully.
That was the old Alonzo. Meet the new and improved Alonzo, dressed in the traditional do bok and training in the Monongahela martial arts studio. He was "reborn" when his aunt suggested martial arts lessons.
Source
Saturday, July 01, 2006
Making karate history
Wise choice, I'd say!
Story:
When the insurance money ran out for Brandon Earnshaw's autistic therapy, a therapist recommended he take up karate.
And now at the age of eleven, the Chattanooga native is about to make karate history.
According to his instructor, Earnshaw will soon become the first autistic person to compete in the karate nationals.
Source
Story:
When the insurance money ran out for Brandon Earnshaw's autistic therapy, a therapist recommended he take up karate.
And now at the age of eleven, the Chattanooga native is about to make karate history.
According to his instructor, Earnshaw will soon become the first autistic person to compete in the karate nationals.
Source
Three fans, three thugs
UK -- Three kick boxing fans are being hunted by police investigating the £100,000 kidnap of a Blackburn man.
A 31-year-old man was taken from his home in Blackburn and taken to Liverpool, where police said he was held hostage for three days and threatened.
Source
A 31-year-old man was taken from his home in Blackburn and taken to Liverpool, where police said he was held hostage for three days and threatened.
Source
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