A Novel of Martial Arts - The Eleventh Son

One of the top three Chinese martial arts fiction writers, Gu Long (1937-1985) wrote sixty-nine novels in a career spanning twenty-five years. Millions of copies of his books have been sold, and many of them have been repeatedly adapted for TV or cinema. His other important novels include The Compassionate Swordsman and the Merciless Sword (1970), The Orchid at Midnight (1979) and Hunting Hawk, Gambling Game (1984). At the age of forty-eight, he died of liver disease caused by excessive alcohol drinking. Rebecca S. Tai received her master's degree from University of California, Los Angeles. She enjoys reading adventure fiction and watching martial arts drama.

On one of his missions, Xiao (the Eleventh Son, known as the Great Bandit) meets Shen, the fairest woman in the martial world. By the will of fate, he rescues Shen several times, which plants the seed of love in both of them. However, Shen is married to a rich young man who is also an outstanding martial artist. As if things were not complicated enough, Xiao has his own secret admirer, Feng, an attractive swordswoman with a quick temper. Xiao is drawn into a messy fight for a legendary saber, the Deer Carver, and is accused of stealing it. Xiao finds out that the person who has set him up is a mysterious young man with an angel's face and a devil's heart. Before he can pursue any further, Shen's grandmother is murdered, and Xiao is named the killer. It appears that things are spinning out of control?

The following are some comments made by several foreign readers.

This book is the only official translated wuxia novel of by the Late Gu Long (Ku Long, Ku lung) available in English to date. Gu Long is one of the three best wuxia writers ever, so having one his novels finally being recognized is indeed wonderful. While comparing it to other translated wuxia novels are rather unfair, because Gu Long has his own distinct writing style, nevertheless in technical aspect of translating, Becky Tai, the translator, exceeded the rest, mainly when compared John Minfor and Graham Earnshaw. Becky Tai maintained the writer's original writing style and mood, even if the words and sentences are now in English. Additionally, Becky kept the names and important terms in Chinese pinyin and explained them to her readers, a much better approach than changing character's name into English or ignorantly using the term "Karate" for Chinese martial arts, like Minford did in his translation of The Deer and the Cauldron. Overall, this book worths every penny and should be collected by anyone who love the "wuxia" (Chinese knight-errand) genre but unable to read neither Chinese characters nor any other Asian language in which many wuxia novels have been translated.

As far as I know, this is Gu Long's second novel published in the West. The first was Christine Courniot's French translation of "Les Quatre Brigands du Huabei" available from amazon.fr. This is the first professional and complete English translation done by Rebecca Tai. Those of us, who have an interest in martial arts fiction, seek out novels like this one but you do not have to be a martial arts aficionado to appreciate this excellent novel. Gu Long, more than Louis Cha, has a poetic style of writing that is unique to the genre of Chinese martial arts fiction. I find the settings of his novels lush and beautiful which leaves a lot to the imagination. Gu Long has acute psychological insight into human nature combined with the human relational understanding of honor and shame. The characters are fascinating, the situations that these characters find themselves in are at times fantastic but that is typical of literature that encompasses history and fantasy. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It was a new and refreshing experience.

This is one of the first translated novels from the famed Chinese martial arts fiction write Gu Long. It's well translated and takes you back in time to a mythical China thousands of years ago, when martial art and Chinese beauties went hand in hand. The world Gu Long creates is romanticized with diverse characters both good and evil, and all well versed in the martial arts. With great character development, Xiao, Feng, and Shen are very believable and sometimes humorous. This is like a literary version of Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, Hero, or House of Flying Daggers. Kudos to Rebecca Tai for translating and Homa for bringing a great Chinese literary gem to the states!

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How to Select The Right Kind of Shoes For Martial Arts

Every sport has its own demand from a human body. Whether it is the hands that are involved or the feet, it is a requirement that one should use the right kind of accessories while practicing their favorite sport. Thus shoes to play soccer or basketball are different from shoes for martial arts. Since the sports are starkly different, the demands on limbs are also different. Therefore, it is not only recommended but compulsory that proper shoes for martial arts should be used while practicing the same.

The main feature of using shoes for martial arts is that they come without laces and so do not impair movement and thus are prone to fewer accidents caused by entanglement. Also, shoes specially created for martial arts are padded at the right places so that you can use the optimum force in your kicks and thus enhance your art rather than impair it. The soles are also specially designed so that you get a good grip on your feet and enable you to spin on your feet efficiently. Spinning is a part and parcel of martial arts unlike any other sport and thus using shoes for martial arts is an advantage to martial art enthusiasts. Let us check the kinds of shoes available for such enthusiasts:

The Ninjitsu Tabi Boot: This is a very special boot made for the art of practicing the Ninjitsu Tabi and does not even look like footwear. It looks more like a bedroom slipper and is a deceit in itself. It comes with tow-grips inside the boot. This boot is also used to practice Ninjitsu and its allied martial arts. This boot is improvised to enable better and efficient kicking and will give you an edge over other martial art sportsmen.

The KungFu Slipper: Another fine example of shoes for martial arts is the KungFu Slipper. This is a very special form of footwear and helps the practitioner to maintain body temperature during KungFu practice. These shoes also help one to remove excess calories, very useful when one is using martial arts as a fitness regimen. The KungFu Slippers are easy to clean - you could wash them with hand or just toss them into the washer. Made with simple yet strong fabric, these shoes are very comfortable and you could find many people using them as casual wear without understanding their functionality entirely, especially in Asian countries.

Shoes are specially designed so that they take the shape of your foot during practice. Many martial arts enthusiasts are also seen practicing bare foot, but this practice could be dangerous and may result in injuries. While bare foot practice benefits better due to strength training and the natural feel, it is only advised after you reach a particular skill level. Shoes for martial arts are highly recommended for beginners and are designed to give better ergonomic comfort and safety to the ones wearing them. Wearing shoes for martial arts is highly recommended for the new and budding martial arts enthusiasts.

To learn more about shoes for martial arts and other martial arts equipments visit http://www.mixedmartialartsequipments.com.

Is Martial Arts Training Fun for Men and Women?

Fun? Really? I guess it depends on what you are doing in the martial arts to classify it as fun. Or if you are a sick, twisted fool that is into self-abuse and mayhem, brutal martial arts training can be fun. It boils down to what your motivation for training is. If you are into competition, patches, trophies, name recognition and glory then a commercial school oriented to the sporting aspects of martial arts is where you want to go. If you want realistic self-defense training perhaps going to a dojo with fewer trophies on the wall is something you want to seek.

Different cultures have different martial arts and it may take a few tries to find one that fits you and your personality. Personally I have been seeking my path in the martial arts for over forty years. I have found some really great schools and top-notch instructors and I have found some schools that I would not waste another second investigating. But my motivation for martial arts training is not the same as everyone else's motivation. It may be similar but it is not the same.

My martial art training is not done as a hobby or a sport or even a pleasant past time. Sometimes it just plain hurts. Yes there is pain involved but that does not mean that the training does not have its own rewards. The camaraderie and bonding that takes place when you place your life in the hands of your training partner achieves a very high degree. It is true that we do not train for fun but occasionally we can have fun training.

If your goal in the martial arts is to achieve a fairly high degree of physical fitness, to maintain good muscle tone and flexibility then you may want to participate in such things as tournaments, and or demonstrations and that is an excellent goal. It can be fun and provide motivation for setting goals or meeting people of similar interests and abilities.

If your motivation to train in the martial arts is to provide yourself a venue to learn to fight and defend yourself you can still find an enjoyable experience but the bumps and bruises will be more extensive.

To seek "budo" or the way of the warrior your path will be quite different than if you were seeking the thrill of competition. The possibility of female participation is reduced but not eliminated. The concept of having fun is pretty much out the window. The training will be brutal by necessity. On the warrior's path you are not training to compete, you are training to survive.

Back in 1967 when I began training in Shotokan my goal was to become a professional soldier. Vietnam was in full swing and I knew if I wanted a military career, I would have to have combat experience. My dream was to join Special Forces (Green Berets) and to command an SFOD - A. I thought I would be more and better prepared if I had some real martial arts training. The club I joined was the Brigham Young University Shotokan Karate Club. There really was not a choice if I wanted good martial arts training. There was nothing else available. The training was brutal. If we did not draw blood during a workout, it was not a good workout. That intense training served me very well when I entered the military in 1973. I missed out on Vietnam (darn the luck! Shucks, I really wanted to go. Not!) as well as all of the other live fire exercises the United States became involved in up until 1990 when I was medically discharged. The martial art training during those early years was not fun but it saved my butt several times. Just being able to push myself beyond my perceived limits of physical endurance was a direct result of my martial arts training and it served me well. Now my martial art training is very different from that in 1967. It is more intellectual and spiritual and has much more potential for severe physical damage. It still is not fun because pain is involved but we can have fun during the training. The close-knit group of students who care about each other's safety is very much different than in the early days. I run classes in my dojo in the basement of my house and training is done by invitation only. Many of my students are prior or current military. Some have had law enforcement experience. The training is hard but the banter and joking provide an environment that is "fun".

Karate is up close and personal. Jujutsu is intimate. This makes some people uncomfortable until they get past the ma-ai barrier and learn to get close to their training partner and maybe their attacker. We must learn to leave our ego as well as our gender at the door. The focus should be on training and learning. Leave the sexist crap outside. That said, then training can become fun.

I have had several junctures in life that if I quit training, retired my uniform and belt and pursued other interests in life it would be permissible. I've broken my back twice, broke my leg really bad and dislocated my ankle, got hurt on a night parachute jump etc. etc. But I discovered that I can't quit. The martial arts have become quite addictive. Perhaps it is the flood of endorphins that keeps me coming back. Maybe I am just waiting for the fun to happen?

Larry G. Bethers
6th Dan Chow-Hoon Goshin Jitsu
Introducing principle based training and teaching.
http://www.oneartmartialconcepts.com

42+ years experience in the martial arts
former Green Beret Officer (Major)

Mixed Martial Arts - More Than a Hobby

There are many different sports or activities that we like to do in our spare time. People use the outlet of sports or other recreational activities in order to stay in shape, stay focused, or to get out some stress that is in their lives. Whatever the reason the individual decides to engage in the extra curricular activity does not matter as much as what they get out of it. The latest craze has been getting involved in mixed martial arts due to aggression as well as the fact that it is a way to defend yourself if you are in danger. However, this art is not a new fad; it has been around for hundred of years, even thousands of years. Not everyone views mixed martial arts fights as sports or ways of defense, they view it as barbaric and unnecessary. No matter what your stance on the topic, there is no denying that it takes dedication, discipline and hard work to master this art.

Whatever your motive, if you want to take some mixed martial arts fighting lessons or mixed martial arts classes for self defense, go right ahead. You know what your reasons and motives are so feel free to look up your local mixed martial arts school and see when they have classes that can fit around your schedule. Sometimes there might not be mixed martial arts schools in your area. It is not uncommon for people to look up mixed martial arts DVD online. They purchase these DVDs in efforts to get an idea of what it takes to be in the classes in person and to do the mixed martial arts workouts to get in shape. Make sure that if you are ready to pursue this art, you understand the intense physical requirements and the mental determination to practice and study. Many teachers and schools also educate students on the philosophy and responsibilities of this art, along with the physical combat of the art itself.

When a person wants to get some mixed martial arts training in order to have the opportunity to fight professionally, they have to go a little more in depth than regular DVDs. They will have to train and prepare like they never have before. Their bodies will never be the same after they put their selves through this training program. They will have to go through such a rigorous training ritual to be able to go against those who have been fighting mixed martial arts for years. It is more than just the working out and the mixed martial arts apparel or mixed martial art clothing that you need to pull it off. Many say it is a mental state of mind that you have to be in, in order to step into a ring against a person that wants to beat you up. When you step into the ring you have to realized, that it is going to be either you or them that will be going down or tapping out.

When the people who think they can get into the ring right now without training see a match in person or on television they actually change their mind all together. This sport and discipline is not for the weak of spirit or strength. These gentlemen are well built and skilled in a form of art and have been for much of their adult life. They have dedicated time, money, and effort to the pursuit of their sport. Some get into the ring realizing that there is a strong possibility that they could lose and get knocked out. Many people have tried to fight competitively and not been able to hang with the big boys.

Whether you enjoy watching the tournaments, have a son or daughter in the sport or have mastered the skill yourself, there is a lot to be learned from this art. Taking the time to excel at such a complex art is a life-skill that will carry into other areas and help you be disciplined in any area you pursue.

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Mixed Martial Arts

Mixing martial arts have been going on forever in the history of fighting arts around the world. In fact, most systems of martial arts were invented based on a combination and modification of existing arts.

Take judo for example, it was founded by Kano based on the combination and modification of many different styles of jujitsu. Modern Brazilian jujitsu, in turn, was a modification of japanese judo by Helio Gracie. Western boxing originally was based on the modification of western fencing. Kickboxing was found by combining karate kicks with boxing punches. Wing Chun was based on modification of long hand shaolin gung fu systems. JKD was found by Bruce Lee by combining and modifying Wing Chun, boxing and fencing theories.

The list goes on.....

The irony is that while the founders were men who broke traditions and combine and modify things to create things that work better for themselves, after they died, their followers insist on turning their thesis into a must-not-change system.

Because of this attitude, cross training was looked upon as a martial arts crime of disloyalty.

In the 1990s NHB events such as the UFC took the martial arts world by storm and thanks to them, cross training is no longer a martial sin. At first, grapplers were winning because no one knew how to grapple nor did they know how to stop take-downs.

As the sport evolved, people started to realize how important it is to cross train.

That's why I think it is funny when fans say things like MMA fighting method is the best. People don't realize that there's no "best" fighting method; it is always evolving. Like boxing, the champions of today fought a lot different than the champs from the 20s 30s and so on.

Methods have to change; the minute that you think your way is the best, you are done. A good example was the Gracies in UFC; as their competitors evolved, they stood still, and as a result, they got beat.

It is always a good reminder to yourself not to get too much of a ego and instead keep learning and evolving if you want to stay ahead.

One of the biggest misconceptions was the idea that MMA and NHB events are new. The fact is, throughout history, NHB contests and mixing martial arts are as old as man.

The gladiators, death matches in China until it was outlawed after the Nanking killings in 1935, challenge matches in Brazil, sword duels in ancient Japan etc. MMA is not a new concept it just seems new because it's the first time it is on cable TV globally.

When people think of mixing martial arts, they automatically think of UFC, K1, Pride and other NHB events. However, the truth is, what you mix with martial arts depends on what you are mixing for.

The success of what you mix depends on what you plan to enter. Are you planning to enter NHB, kickboxing, boxing, sport jujitsu or a stick fighting tournament?

The rules are different, there's no point mixing kicks into your training program if you are planning to enter a boxing match right? And there no point only training punches and grappling if you are planning to enter a stick fighting tournament right?

This is common sense, but the reason I am writing this is because a lot of people only think of one event when thinking about mixing martial arts.

Again, what you mix depends on what you are training for. Knowing this allows you to design a better training program for yourself. That being said, what you mix for different tournaments (NHB, wrestling, stick fighting, boxing etc.) and what you mix for street fighting and real world self protection is very very different as well.

Some things that you have to take into consideration when mixing martial arts for street encounters compared to sport-fighting are: multiple opponents, starting engagement from close quarters, the use and defenses against weapons, the use of verbal distractions and the element of surprise, fighting in difficult environments( bad lighting, stair cases etc.), escaping before more bad guys come instead of staying to win.

Some sport-fighting tactics, attributes and techniques transfers nicely for street fighting but a lot do not. Just like some things for street fighting can be transfered to sport fighting but a lot cannot. Knowing the differences between the ring vs a street encounter, instead of thinking one method will work for both, is the safest and most effective way to train.

I hope this helps the average person get a little better perspective about Mixed Martial Arts in general.

My name is Adam Chan and I started martial arts in 1986 training in classical Wing Chun under sifu Joseph Boychuck. In 1993 I learned a hybrid version of kung-fu from sifu Mike Smith which contained elements of Tai-Chi, Ba Gua, Hsing Yi, Shaolin, natural gate boxing.

In the end, names and styles do not matter but or convenience sake, my system is called Modified Wing Chun.Tracing back what I learned, I realized that it contains elements of fencing, boxing, savate and karate. Some of my own influences are Aikido and Yi-Quan.

Martial arts training can lead one to confidence, creativity, compassion and many other qualities. This led me to research Taoism, motivational psychology and Zen studies. Little by little, I realized that using martial arts as a medium is a great way to help people.

For questions, discussion and more information about this article and related topics please visit my website http://www.pragmaticmartialarts.com

Choosing a Self Defense, Martial Arts School - A Parents Guide

"Daddy, I want to take Karate!"

"Mommy, Jimmy on the bus hit me again today"

There are many reasons why parents want to sign their children up for Self Defense or Martial Arts classes. Once you have made the decision, now you are faced with many different options and questions. What style? How much does it cost? Is my child to young?

Martial Arts and Self Defense Styles

There are as many different styles of Martial Arts as there are religions in the world. You have probably heard of Karate, Tae Kwon Do, Jujitsu, and even Aikido, but there are still numerous styles and offshoots of the Major styles.

So what Style is the Best and what style should I choose?

In reality, it is this author's opinion that the style of Martial Arts your child will learn is not that important. What is important is the method of teaching and training that your child will undergo. With Martial Arts training your child should learn self-discipline, self-respect, and self-esteem, along with the confidence and ability to defend themselves.

The Instructor, (or Sensei) is the key. I suggest that all parents visit several locations with their children to observe the Instructor at work. Make sure you visit a beginner's class as well as an upper level class. The beginner's class is where your child will start.

Does the instructor's personality and philosophy match your morals and ideals? Does the class participate in any "Eastern Religious" practice that doesn't match your faith? Do you want your child viewing this instructor as a role model? Most children will look up to their Martial Arts & Self Defense Instructors as role models and will be in awe of their skills and abilities. Make sure that this person who will be dealing with your children matches your values.

It is also important to view an upper level class. The beginner classes are usually very tame, and the teaching philosophy is tailored to a younger audience. However, the older the student is, the "real" teaching and training methods are put into effect. You may feel comfortable with how the instructor "teaches" the younger beginning students, but may not be comfortable with how they handle the older students.

Cost

The majority of Martial Arts & Self Defense Locations (or Dojo's) run their business on a membership basis. Customers must sign contracts, where they are obligated to pay for a certain time period to participate. The locations are run like a gym membership, you pay for a certain length of time and may participate as often as you desire.

Unfortunately, rarely are the "hidden costs" discussed when signing up for a class or membership. What are the hidden costs? The most over looked cost is the "testing fee". In Martial Arts there are numerous skill levels that are equated to a belt rank. After a certain period of time and training, the student is ready to advance to a new level or belt in their martial arts style, and a "belt test" will be performed. This "belt test" almost always required the student to pay a "belt-testing fee". I have seen fees from $50 up to $500 depending on the belt rank. Parents, make sure you inquire about these fees and are comfortable with them before you sign any contract.

Another hidden cost is required items to purchase. Some locations require that you purchase a uniform with the schools logo. The average cost of these uniforms range from $30-$50. As the child advances in rank, protective sparring gear is required. Now this is normally mandatory for the child's protection and safety, but can be expensive. Normal safety gear for Martial Arts consists of Foot Pads, Hand Pads, Head Gear, Mouth Piece, Groin Cup, and optional Spar Vest. Depending on the style and sizes all this gear together cost about $150 retail or higher.

So Parents, factor in the total cost of classes, testing fees, and required equipment when making your decisions.

Age

At what age should my child begin Martial Arts or Self Defense? Now this is an often-debated issue. I have seen children as young as 4 years old participate in Martial Arts or Self Defense training. Some have been successful while others it was just to young. The age of which a child should start Martial Arts or Self Defense classes should be judged on an individual basis and be determined by the parents. Some key points to consider. Does the child have a good attention span? Has the child participated and flourished in other group activities? Is the child comfortable in larger group settings?

If the child is currently enrolled in grade school and has no problem adapting to those settings or conditions then they should be considered old enough to participate and benefit from Martial Arts or Self Defense instruction.

Article written by Eric J Gehler
Richmond SEO
Eric has been involved in the Martial Arts Business for over 15 years. More information is available on the website!

Martial Arts - Japanese Jujitsu

Japanese Jujitsu which is also known as Traditional Jujitsu is accepted as the mother of many of the modern arts of the 20th century. Karate, Judo, Aikido and Brazilian Jujitsu are just a few of the arts that have spawned from this ancient martial art. During the feudal period of Japan, an art was needed for warfare. A definitive date for the origins of this martial art is impossible to locate but it is universally agreed upon that Jujitsu is purely a Japanese martial art. Known as the art of the Samurai, Jujitsu was highly feared and respected by other territories due to its vast skill set. A samurai was trained in weapons consisting of the staff, the katana, the sword and many others, while he was also trained in all ranges of fighting including striking, throwing and ground grappling.

Jujitsu is an art that for the most part has gone unrecognized for its many contributions to the martial arts community as a whole. This isn't to say that most people aren't aware of the art, they just aren't fully aware of the various facets of this martial art. This isn't a new problem, this has been the story throughout history when it comes to Jujitsu. Remember that in the early years of its inception it was only taught to Samurai's and they used it in a way that was not only brutal but in most instances, lethal. How were they supposed to get exposure for a martial art that couldn't be practiced or exhibited without the chance of a serious injury? Looking at the late 60s and early 70s you'll see that Kung-fu had its poster boy in martial arts legend Bruce Lee while Karate had an equally great spokesperson in Chuck Norris. It's not until Tom Cruise acted in the movie the "Last Samurai" that western society became privy to the martial art of Jujitsu. The Tom Cruise of Jujitsu in the 1800s was a man by the name of Jigoro Kano who was one of the champion practitioners of the martial arts.

What Jigoro Kano did was devise a way that not only could Jujitsu be practiced safely but competitions and exhibitions could now be held as a way of exposure for the art. What he essentially did was eliminate the deadly striking and eye gouging from the martial art and focused on both the throwing and submission holds. The problem was his art became so watered down that it didn't even reassemble Jujitsu anymore. Not only was the striking omitted but some of the submissions such as leg locks were also taken out. Jigoro Kano had also introduced a way for all the practitioners of the art t o partake in live sparring. This was known as randori and out of it a new sport was born which we now call Judo.

You might be wondering how a martial art like Jujitsu can benefit you in this day in age. The fact of the matter is, yes it was created for the Samurai to do battle in war, but with some of the modifications made to it in the last two centuries, it has become much safer while still keeping its effectiveness. Not many arts were heralded enough to have more then ten new martial arts created from them. A martial art that was good enough to preserve the life of a Samurai during battle is certainly capable of granting us the skills needed to defend ourselves.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Martial Arts [http://martial-arts-guides.com/]

Martial Arts Equipment for All Styles

Different people will train in the martial arts for completely dissimilar reasons. Some may do it for health, others will take part in it for self-defense, and then some simply do it as a hobby. Regardless of your reason for enrolling in martial arts lessons, you will not get much out of the process if you do not have the right equipment.

In the "old days," it was not uncommon for jugs of water, bags of rice, and buckets filled with sand to be incorporated into a host of different workout programs. These days, we are lucky enough to have access to a great variety of martial arts equipment. Through the effective use of such equipment, it becomes possible to attain the most out of a structured class or private training.

Of course, this may raise questions regarding what type of martial arts equipment is needed for the "average" workout. Again, there is enormous variety to choose from. The following is a brief overview of the martial arts equipment you will commonly come across. Most of it is a must for any martial arts practitioner regardless of style.

Without a doubt, the common punch bag is a clear must in any dojo or training hall. Punching bags not only provide a definitive target to direct your blows towards. Such bags enhance the potential to develop solid endurance and cardiovascular conditioning. There is great variety among the many different punching bags available and they include:

Standard Boxing Size: These would be traditional boxing bags that mimic the size and shape of the torso. They are primarily intended for punching but mid-line and high line kicks can be effectively trained on these bags as well.

Banana Bags: These are thinner punching bags that are the length of the human body. The lower region of the punch bag allows for the effective training of leg kicks, knees, and other strikes.

Light Bags: Light punching bags are low weight (about 1/3 the size and weight of a punching bag) and are designed mainly to give resistance to jabbing style punches as well as hook and uppercut line blows. Some even use a lightweight punch bag to train headbutts!

Punching bags can be hanging bags which are affixed to various "hooks" in the ceiling or they can be freestanding. Freestanding bags are, essentially durable base mounts. Such bags are a great deal more expensive that many of the traditional hanging bags but they are much easier to move and store.

While hitting the heavy bag is a must for effective training, you do need to hit it in as safe a manner as possible. This will necessitate the proper protective gloves required for hitting an impact target. This includes all manner of impact targets - heavy bags, focus mitts, shields, and Muay Thai pads. The knuckles in the hand are quite small and fragile bones. This is why reliable gloves - whether they are traditional 12oz, 14oz, or 16oz boxing gloves, boxing bag gloves, or mixed martial arts lightweight finger free gloves - must be worn when hitting a heavy punch bag. For those that enjoy sparring with "point karate" gloves, be mindful of the fact that such gloves are not designed for hitting impact targets. They will not provide the adequate protection you need for such training. Stick with using them for light contact sparring instead.

As most martial artists realize, the hands are not the only area that need protection which is why a great deal of martial arts equipment will provide protection to the feet. Shin pads and point fighting footwear are two of the most common. Some may assume that such equipment is only used in sparring. In actuality, wearing when hitting impact targets is advisable as well since this can protect the lower extremities and nerve endings from damage. Really, the perennial running theme here is that most martial arts equipment is intended to enhance safety. Of course, there are also some items that serve other purposes as well and they are well worth look at as well.

Stretching devices can be employed to help extend the range of motion in the leg ligaments. This will definitely prove helpful for those that wish to enhance their kicking flexibility. Similarly, the "old school" Eagle Catcher is a perfect spring action handheld device designed to build up a great degree of gripping stretch. The classic makiwara pad has long since been used to toughen the hands in traditional karate training. Similarly, the kung fu wall bag is a great asset for developing strikes common in the Chinese martial arts. Such older and more traditional training aids definitely still have their place in a modern world that is becoming increasingly known for its sportive approach to training. But, whether you are training for competition or traditional self-defense, you need equipment that helps facilitate your goals.

Regardless of the type of martial arts equipment you purchase, you want to be sure it is from a reputable name brand manufacturer. Some will make the error of purchasing less costly equipment from a "no frills" manufacturer. Rarely is such equipment worth much of anything. Not only will cheap equipment not deliver on expectations, it can put the user at an injury risk. Certainly, that would not be helpful in any way whatsoever. Stick with reliable name brands for your martial arts equipment needs. Such an approach will assuredly prove far more helpful in the end.

Ian Woolston has been studying martial arts for over 15 years and is currently a 4th Dan Ju Jitsu. Visit his website, EnsoRyu, if you are interested in punch bags or any other type of martial arts equipment. Be sure to check the blog to read about up to date news, information and more.

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Martial Arts Supplies and Equipment

To do extremely well in any sports or discipline and especially the martial arts, the competitor needs the right training equipment and gear. There are hundreds of martial arts styles all over the world and a lot of styles use some sort of equipment, especially the competitive fighting arts.

The mixed martial arts, which are a blend of some of the combat arts from all over the world, like Judo, Karate, Thai Boxing, and kung fu make use of some traditional gear as well as boxing equipment.

Some mixed martial arts make use of a punching bag, a speed bag, and a double end bag or floor to ceiling ball. These fighting bags all help increase various skills in a combatant. The heavy punching bag helps with clout, the speed bag with hand eye coordination and the double end bag improves punching accuracy and tempo as well.

Some martial artist make use of the Thai bag, which is an extremely long bag, sometimes up to six feet, that allows martial artists to practice devastating lower leg kicks.

Another great piece of martial arts supplies is the kick shield. This is nothing more than a large leather shield that is used for blocking and absorbing blows and kicks during a workout. The shield is great as the target can be moved around the room and also used for low or high kicks to practically any part of the body, including the stomach, chest, and legs.

Mixed martial artists also use focus mitts, which are also versatile. The focus mitts are great for accuracy and endurance for long bouts; they can not only be punched, but also for skilled martial artist can kick them held in a variety of positions. The function of this particular piece of equipment is to help fighters develop fast and fluid combinations.

Another important training item is the protection gear that professional boxers and fighters wear. The mixed martial artist sport normally wear a four ounce glove or similar. The boxing gloves average around ten ounces. For both styles, hand injuries can end the fighter's career and participation in the sport, so the correct training and protective gear is vital.

No matter if you punch, grab, grapple, or box, martial art supplies can help you get the most out of your training and fighting skills.

For more Combat Arts tips and information, go to Combat Arts or Martial Arts Supplies

Choosing The Right Location For Your Martial Arts School

Setting up your first school can be a hard task, and deciding on the perfect location is absolutely vital. MA Instructor sent Lesley Jackson out to discover the facts on how to discover the best location for you, your business and your students.

From the local park to a misty mountainside, from the Shaolin temple to a student's garage, there is no definitive location for a martial arts business. But in this modern age of marketing and presentation, finding the perfect location for your school can mean the difference between your enterprise succeeding or folding. If you want to make a decent living from your martial art, you need to think very carefully about where you are going to have to locate your school and avoid the pitfalls that could make your business go under within its first year.

Starting Up

One of the first decisions you are going to have to make is for what purpose are you going to run your classes? Are you interested in a non-profit making community project, whereby you are able to make your living elsewhere, or do you want to make money from your martial art and run it like a profitable business? For those seeking non-profit social businesses, there is funding available in the form of grants from associations like the National Lottery and the Sport England/Scotland/Wales projects. Contact the local county council's sport development officer for advice and consultancy, as they offer funds, investment and work space for this type of scheme.

However, for the majority of school owners, your location is going to be your biggest expenditure as you will need a place to train as well as run your school. Book some time with your small business adviser at your local bank and present him with a viable business plan, and investigate the potential for further financial aid through government schemes tailored for new aspiring social business enterprises. There are hundreds of grants available and the Department for Trade and Industry's website is a good place to start as well as Business Link, which has information regarding financial awards both on a national and regional level. Contact details can be found at the end of the article.

Established Locations

If you are starting your school from scratch and looking for your first location, you may want to use a space that is shared throughout the community as it will be considerably cheaper than finding your own exclusive training hall. One of the best options is a local leisure center due to its already active clientèle and prime location. Most recreational centers in this country are run by local councils and they will usually have a space big enough to practice and teach martial arts which will not be expensive to hire. They also have the advantage of very good changing and parking facilities and you will have to spend less on advertising as you will already have a ready made market of physically active people who will be interested in your martial activity. If your martial art contains sparring of some kind, you may find that you will have to take out additional insurance to cover this, but this cost is easily comparable against renting your own space. The only drawback may be the time factor, as you will have to arrange your classes in agreement to the leisure center's schedule of events.

Another option is hiring a school hall. You will have a large space that is cheap and well maintained and usually available all year round. Due to these reasons, this will probably make it one of the most popular options but you do need to consider a few points before you march into your local infant school. Choose and research your demographic area carefully. Pay careful attention to the people living in the immediate surrounding areas as this is where you will be drawing the majority of your student base. You need to target families with a disposable income level high enough to pay for lessons, gradings and tournaments, and charge accordingly in order to see your students return and remain for the long term. Unfortunately, it is a truth to assume that an area that looks run down may not be the best place to start your first business as the surrounding population will not have the disposable income to spend on what can be an expensive hobby. However, this could be a good place to start for a non-profit community project which would help to build up your reputation as a martial arts teacher. Once your reputation as a good instructor spreads, you won't have to work so hard to find your students. Sensei Gavin Mulholland, who is a Chief Instructor of Go-ju Ryu Karate, comments that "it is up to the students to find you, not the other way round."

Other considerations to think about when using a school hall compared to a leisure center is that you will not have the same level of footfall by being located away from the town center. Therefore, more money will have to be dedicated to marketing costs to attract your clients. This needn't take up a large chunk of your start-up revenue but it may take up your time, so you will have to advertise in local newspaper and take the time to do a leaflet drop around a two or three mile radius of the school. Until you have an established chain of schools, people are unlikely to travel far for their first lessons and so the surrounding catchment area of your first school will dictate whether your potential business will succeed or fail.

Getting Your Own Space

Another option, or the next stage in your business plan, should be to acquire your own premises from which to run your school. Sensei Mulholland has his own dedicated space because "there is something about a genuine dojo that absorbs all the energy and feeds it back to those who train there." Much like choosing where to live, you will have the option to either rent or buy your own space and the adage of finding a suitable location is as important for your martial arts business as it is for your house. There will be advantages and disadvantages for both and it will depend on what stage your business is at. Where you are located could spell the difference between your business making a profit or failing.

When choosing a space to rent for your martial arts school, unless you already have a loyal and supportive student base who you can rely on to travel to your school, you will need to choose somewhere in a densely populated area that is easily accessible. Although the cheapest commercial space could be a business unit on an industrial estate, unless you master a very good advertising campaign, you will not attract any footfall customers as they simply won't find you. The luxury of having your own space will come at a price, (namely your rent, utility bills and council tax) so you must have a sufficient number of students to cover your overheads. One idea could be to lease one of the cheaper shop units in a shopping center. The rent would be less than the prime locations that the chain stores will inhabit, and you will be able to take advantage of the large amount of footfall custom that will form your customer base. Karen Vactor and Susan Peterson, co-authors of the book Starting and Running Your Own Martial Arts School, confirm that, "a good walk-by traffic will bring people into your school. It may pay for itself and then some." You need to acknowledge that your martial arts business is as much a commercial enterprise as selling TVs or shoes and that you are encouraging your customers to be spending their disposable income as such.

To Buy or Not to Buy

Buying your own space, could you and should you? To convince a mortgage lender to give you the money, you would really need to be an established martial arts business that has a proven track record of making a profit. This will be the most expensive option, as not only will you have the mortgage repayments and the rising interest rates to consider, but you will also have to cover the cost of the building's insurance and maintenance. However, you will have the comfort of being able to customize your own space specifically to your own needs, such as installing a sprung floor, attaching screwing kick bags to the ceiling and having the mirrors and pictures of your own choice on the wall. Sensei Mulholland speaks about the atmosphere of a purpose built training hall: "I love the power that you can feel in a genuine dojo - the sights, sounds, smells and the feel of the place." It will, of course, be a good investment but there are risks involved and you need to be brutally honest with yourself before you make that type of financial commitment.

The only other consideration to take into account when finding your own space for your martial arts business is size, as not only will you need to accommodate a class but you may need to run a grading or even a tournament. However, this needn't be a problem, as hiring a bigger temporary space for the day in the shape of a sports hall is quite easy. If you are affiliated to a particular martial arts association then you could collaborate with other local schools to put on a joint event and halve the costs and organization.

So think carefully when writing your business plan and take into account what will be your biggest expenditure, as your location could be the difference between making a loss and not surviving the first year to performing as a successful and profitable chain of martial arts schools.

Lee Mainprize is a martial arts business and marketing expert visit http://www.MAinstructor.com for martial arts instructors and teachers resources.

5 Must-Have Martial Arts Business Software Features

Running a martial arts school requires many hats. One of those hats includes administration including tracking employee time, student contact management, marketing, sales, scheduling and course curriculum development, and of course teaching martial arts.

My bet is you like teaching more than sitting in an office taking care of the management of your martial school. The bad news is if you run a martial arts school you must spend some time administrating your business. The good news is you can now get some pretty cool software that speeds up and in fact enhances your administrating tasks.

The key administrating tasks include:

Student contact management
Marketing
Sales and revenue generator
Employee management
Scheduling and curriculum development

In a nutshell, the best martial arts business management software is a platform that is integrated and takes care of all these administrative tasks. This way you avoid duplicated data entry and in fact can leverage the existing data.

What do I mean by leveraging existing data?

Harnessing software as it should be harnessed means minimizing input time and maximizing production. For example, one big task involved in running a martial arts school is student contact / info management. You must maintain student information. Another big task is scheduling. You must schedule your classes and perhaps private lessons.

You can leverage your client contact information with scheduling by having the two data sets integrated. So, if you input a private lesson, you can easily access your client contact database from your scheduling software so with a click you update your schedule rather than input client information from scratch.

Let me give you a better example. Suppose you have email software that is integrated with your scheduling software. When your schedule is revised or a student signs up for a slot, you can program and integrate the email marketing software with your email marketing so that your student receives reminders about the scheduled appointment or class.

These are just two of many time-saving examples you get when you get the right martial arts business software.

Before I list the 5 must-have features, the over-arching requirement is that your software have all these features so integrations is built-in. This way you harness the benefits of leveraging your time and resources.

What are the 5 Must-Have Martial Arts Business Software Features?

1. Robust Scheduling Software

You need scheduling software that does the following:
Integrates with a robust email software
Is centralized so when you make a change in the schedule, it's replicated wherever you have your schedule digitally posted (i.e. other computers and your website(s))
Enables auto-pay so that you can collect money up front digitally. This alone pays for any software upgrade. Money up front processed automatically is much better than chasing money.

2. Robust Student Contact Management

You want a centralized database where your student information is retained. It's a lot of work managing student profiles, contact information, payment information, etc. When you have it in a properly constructed database with fields, you leverage your data input in many ways by integrating the database with other administrative tasks. It's also easier inputting new data and/or revising existing data.

3. Payroll Management

Martial arts schools often have several teachers earning money at different pay rates. It's not fun tracking how much each teacher is owed over with inadequate software (Excel anyone - I don't mean to badmouth Excel, it's excellent - it's simply not designed for tracking such data).

4. Sales and Revenue Generation

Credit card processing that integrates with your client contact database. Moreover, you want credit card processing you can do on the computer rather than separate hardware. It's much more convenient.
Enable online payments and auto-billing. When someone schedules classes online, why not collect money automatically and immediately. The less time you spend processing and chasing money, the more time you have to build your business and do what you love - teach martial arts and develop courses.
Gift Card Capability
Gift cards can be a wonderful revenue generator. Make it easy for your students to get friends and family into your school with gift cards.
Retail and E-commerce: If you're not selling gear, apparel, gift cards, etc. then you're leaving money on the table. Moreover, having gear and apparel available for your students is a nice customer service touch.

5. Marketing Capability

One of the best ways to get new business and generate more and ongoing sales from your existing students is using sophisticated email marketing. Don't rely on gmail or Outlook. Get an autoresponder email system that integrates with your student contact database and scheduling software.

You want to customize your email messages to prospective students and current students. You also want to auto-generate email messages as much as possible - such as new class openings, class reminders, private lesson reminders, etc. When you integrate your email software with your scheduling software, you can significantly ramp up your communication with students with very little time or effort.

If you don't have a fully integrated software system for your martial arts business, then chances are you're duplicating work and not leveraging as much as you can to reduce inputs while increasing outputs. The email marketing and contact database integration alone gives benefits sufficient to warrant the cost of more sophisticated software.

However, when you add in credit card processing, auto-billing, and e-commerce opportunities, you can seriously grow your martial arts business while spending less time in front of the computer and more time in class with students.

Which martial arts business software do I recommend?

Check out this martial arts business software.

You can read my original article on martial arts business software here.

Which Martial Art Style Should I Pick to Study?

If you wish to receive the most benefits from the martial arts, you have got to choose the style which best matches your goals. On account that there are a multitude of wonderful styles to choose from, identifying the ideal one is likely to be a challenging decision.

The first factor to ponder when picking a style is what you are expecting to achieve from your time and efforts in lessons. Are you hoping to learn self-defense techniques, or will you be becoming a member of a martial arts school for fitness purposes? If you think you happen to be investigating the arts as a means to step-up your combat capabilities, what type of attacks, kicks, or defensive skills do you hope to uncover? Why don't we take a look at some of the more recognized martial arts to make it easier to decide what system is most advantageous for you.

Taekwondo (Tae Kwon Do) is a Korean martial arts style that has been progressively growing in popularity during the last sixty years. Traditional taekwondo was initially engineered in the 1950's by the South Korean military but an alternative style has surfaced in sport taekwondo. In a large number of taekwondo dojos, they coach features of both sport and traditional taekwondo. This awesome style is best known for its astonishing kicks, extraordinary weapons presentations, and nerve-wrangling sparring tournaments. It has a tendency to be one of the most popular styles to enroll your kids in as well.

Karate was originally developed in Okinawa, Japan and is most widely known for its punches, kicks, chops, and joint locks. Over time, a multitude of unique systems of Karate have been formulated in countries throughout the earth. Some of the more popular styles of Karate include Wado-Ryu, Kenpo, and Budokan. This is a very good art to become skilled at if you are needing to study self-defense tactics and effective combat instruction.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a martial arts style which focuses mostly on grappling and ground combat. This outstanding system of fighting has existed since the early in the twentieth century, but did not get widely used until such time as the early nineteen nineties when Bjj specialist Royce Gracie triumphed in the initial Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC). Since that time, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has grown into one of the hottest styles and quite a few of its ground submission techniques have been integrated into martial arts classes all over the earth.

Aikido is a Japanese style which concentrates on redirecting your opponents strength to use it against them. This style is very loved by individuals searching for a less aggressive martial art. In addition to its wonderful joint locks and fluid throws, Aikido if famous for its profound philosophies and religious influences.

Kung Fu is a Chinese martial art recognized for its distinct animal styles, internal energy development, and incredible Chinese weapon demos. Over the years, Kung Fu has gathered an immense following resulting from its presence on television and in the movies. It is a fantastic style to study if you're trying to find strong self-defense strategies, spiritual and philosophical enlightenment, and physical fitness.

Judo is a Japanese art known for its impressive throws and submission wrestling skills. It is similar to Brazilian jiu-jitsu, but gives far more emphasis to take-downs and holds. Despite the fact that strikes are part of Judo, they are rarely used in training and never in tournaments. This is an awesome martial art style to study, but is often a little bit intimidating to individuals who are uncomfortable being tossed to the ground.

I hope this short glimpse into some of the arts has assisted you with your final decision. My very best suggestion would be to stop by a couple of schools in your vicinity teaching varying styles and observe several instructional classes. When you choose a dojo, don't be afraid to change styles if your interests change later on. Almost all martial artists learn numerous systems to gain as much experience as they can.

Author Kyle Keniston has been training in various martial art styles since childhood, and is now the owner of a martial arts supply store where he sells a great selection of martial arts books and discount martial art uniforms.

Martial Arts and Beating Stress

Are you a busy executive or mom trying to do everything? Are you getting so stressed out that it seems like you're not accomplishing anything? If so, you can use martial arts to combat that stress! Many of the skills and techniques used in martial arts training are the same skills and techniques you can use to rid your body of stress.

So, you might be wondering how a skill that is commonly depicted as a fighting tool can actually reduce stress... Some of these common images of martial arts aren't completely accurate. The cartoons, video games and movies showing martial arts as a fighting tool are only showing you one small facet of the art. The skills necessary for training martial arts can teach you how to balance your mind and body and give you the confidence you need to face the stressful events in your life.

HOW DO YOU DO IT?

One of the techniques used to create this balance is using breathing and meditation techniques to help you connect and control your mind and body. There are different types of meditation: sitting, standing, kneeling and moving. Find the position that works best for you. Here's how to start.

1. Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth.

2. Breathe deeply. To make sure you're breathing deeply enough, put your hand on your stomach. If your stomach isn't pushing out as you breath in, you're not breathing deeply enough. Try to pull the air all the way to your navel before you let it out.

3. When you breathe out, keep your tongue on the roof of your mouth. This keeps helps minimize your saliva and swallowing.

In the Chinese way of thinking, breathing like this is completing a path: The mouth is a gate and the tongue on the roof of the mouth allows your vital energy called "Qi" or "Chi" (both pronounced "chee") to circulate throughout your body. Chi is what helps your mind and body connect.

After you've gotten the physical aspects of breathing down, you can start counting your breaths - this is a form of meditation that many experts teach during stress management courses. Start short and work your way up.

1. Begin with a count of 4 as you breathe in and a count of 6 as you breathe out.

2. As you go along, extend the in and out until you can get a count of 6 as you breathe in and up to 24-30 as you breathe out. Just remember that you want a short, deep breath in and a slow, long breath out.

WHY DOES IT WORK?

This mind and body connection through breathing works because stress is a mental state that manifests itself as a physical symptom in your body. This physical symptom then acts as a trigger to tell you to do something about it. As you become more aware of your body, you'll be able to notice the "trigger" before it becomes something unbearable such as a severe neck problem or a migraine headache. Once you notice your trigger, you can stop and do something about it such as practicing a breathing technique. For example, I used to get stress-induced migraines that would leave me out of commission for a whole day. Now, I've come to realize that it actually starts in my lower back as a small thing. If I let it go, it works its way up to my head. Now, when I noticed this trigger in my back, I stop and do my breathing. It allows the issue to surface so I can deal with it and I don't have to deal with a migraine.

We all have those moments from time to time when we experience stress (some more frequently than others). The overall benefits of training martial arts for the mind and body (including self-awareness, self confidence, focus, concentration and physical conditioning) all lead to reducing that stress. You owe it to yourself to start relieving the stress in your life with the skills taught through martial arts. The best place to find these skills is at a fine martial arts school. Why not give it a try? You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. To make it even easier, I'll help you get started. Just contact me and I'll send you my free report on how to pick a martial arts school.

For more information on this article or others go to Articles on Martial Arts

Robert Jones runs three successful martial arts schools located in Bellevue, Lynnwood, and Kent Washington. He has been helping families make positive changes in their lives through martial arts for over 20 years. He has also written A Guide on How to Pick a Martial Arts School

He can be reached at the Academy of Kempo Martial Arts. 800-508-6141. His schools can be found on the web at Bellevue Martial Arts and Kung Fu

Martial Arts Training is Not Just About Being Practical

I find it slightly amusing that quite often when I talk to other martial artists, some of them get so worked up about what's practical and what isn't. In one discussion, we were talking about martial arts weaponry including bo staffs and swords. This one fellow was commenting that swords are not practical since we don't usually carry around swords anymore but sticks can be found anywhere, which can substitute for staffs.

This is the same type of fellow who would discredit the fancy moves in many bo staff forms, especially the open and extreme style of weapons forms since they are not practical for the streets. Although he has a point in all this, he is missing something that will be very relevant for many martial artists.

Although many of the fancy moves in both weapons and non-weapons forms as well as unpractical weapons such as swords have very little use in real life combat or self defense situations, one should not forget that there are other purposes with these.

Many martial arts techniques and activities, no matter how unpractical they are, can still be done for the pure enjoyment. There's the exercise involved, which benefits health both physically and mentally. There's the show aspect, which entertains audiences (and what's wrong with entertaining audiences?).

There's the progression of skills involved, which help with confidence levels to do other things in life. This is certainly practical for one's own personal development.

There's also the lowering of boredom because a bit of variety in martial arts enables people to train and keep interested in training much longer. The evidence in this is for those who take up martial arts just to learn practical techniques and nothing else, their years spent in training are often relatively short because after they learn the practical aspects, they just become bored.

Yes, we've come a long way in the martial arts world in terms of realizing what exactly is practical and what is not. This may have started out with Bruce Lee when he pounced on classical and traditional techniques. Of course, he had strong points which ultimately led to mixed martial arts or MMA which are so popular these days.

At the same time, open style forms became more exciting and extreme in the competition circuits and this includes the introduction of Chinese wushu. These developments may seem to be in complete contrast to the MMA mixed martial arts movement.

These seem like two very distinct and distant camps in the martial arts world. As a result, many martial artists from the practical side would be quick to discredit the 'fancy' side. But really, there's no need to.

So there are many other aspects to martial arts besides just the practical techniques. The whole enjoyment that non-practical, i.e., the fancy stuff, should not be discounted. Martial artists can train with these other techniques no matter how useless they would be on the street just for the pure enjoyment. Train for similar reasons why people choose to play tennis or golf. For the pure enjoyment.

Clint Cora is a former member of the Canadian National Karate Team and a Karate World Champion as well as a motivational speaker and author. He has a martial arts information website at www.martialartsarticlesonline.com where he also offers a free World Champion Personal Growth Guide.

Finding a Quality Youth Martial Arts School or Program

Getting your child involved in Martial Arts Training is an excellent way to boost their self esteem, teach them valuable lessons in discipline, and get them started on a wellness program that can last for years to come. If you're thinking about enrolling your child in Martial Arts Training, here are some very useful tips for locating a quality program in your area.



Find Available Classes or Programs

An excellent way to begin your search for a Martial Arts school is to find out where classes are offered. Go online or look in the phone book and compile a list of places that offer Martial Arts training. Unless you don't mind a half hour or more drive after work or on the weekends, look for classes offered in your area. Finding classes in your area is convenient for you and less stressful for your child.


Contact the Schools

Once you have compiled a list of Martial Arts schools or training programs, you will want to contact each one. When you contact them, ask specific questions about the age groups, instructor qualifications, the price of classes, and the time and availability of classes.



Decide on Your Goals

Are you considering enrolling your child in Martial Arts training for recreation, exercise, or discipline? The reason you enroll your child in Martial Arts training is a good way to narrow down your search. After you have located a few programs speak to the instructor(s) about their theory on youth Martial Arts and what school of thought they prescribe to. For example, if you are enrolling your son or daughter in or to work on their discipline, you will want a program and instructor that focuses on the serious side of Martial Arts.


Find Out What Your Child's Goals Are

You child's goals are just as important as yours when it comes to Martial Arts. Discuss with your child what he or she would like to take away from the class. This can be something they can do to meet friends and stay in shape, or it can be taken to the next step where they can compete and become extremely involved. Martial Arts training takes a lot of dedication and your child should be interested in enrolling in a program. While this doesn't mean it should be love at first site (since many children get discouraged in the early stages of any activity), but the thought of going to Martial Arts classes shouldn't bring your child to tears.


Visit the Schools

Once you find schools that you believe may be a good fit for you and your child, make it a point to visit each one. By visiting a Martial Arts school you will be able to meet with the instructors, see how classes run, and find out what methods and principles are important to the school and it's members. Since your child is the one who will be taking the class, be sure to bring him or her along so they can decide if they will be comfortable.

For all your martial arts needs visit AWMA. AWMA offers quality martial arts and products including whole sale karate uniforms and sparring gear.

Martial Arts Over Training - Important Martial Principle While Driving a Car

The best martial artists don't limit their training to a few hours a week. They are constantly bettering themselves in the martial arts by learning to live their principles. After all, if it's good enough for the dojo or garage, then it's probably a principle that you could apply to life. I wonder how many martial-arts will ignore this sound advice for staying safe. Are you serious enough about the martial arts that you'd change your lifestyle to incorporate this martial principle?

Important Martial Principle When You Are Driving

I have two friends who look at me, when they talk -- while they are driving and I am in the passenger seat. They also look away from the road to notice beautiful females, sporty cars, and other distractions.

I also have friends and relatives who exhibit unsafe driving practices -- they are the "quick-motion" drivers, and the cellphone drivers (handheld phones in cars). Does all of this seem minor? Are you wondering how all of this pertains to over training and martial-arts principles?

Let's go back to the looking away from the road while driving...

Dangerous "Un-Martial-Arts-Like" Driving Behavior

This behavior especially bothers me, when they are approaching a red light. The cars in front of them are stopped or are slowing down. Do my friends slow down as they approach the brake lights in front of them?

No, not at all.

Do they at least keep their eyes on the car stopped or slowing in front of them?

Not a chance.

In fact they look away from the road. It's as if they ... "just checked the car in front, so they can look away, because nothing out of the ordinary could possibly happen that would cause the

car in front of them to suddenly hit the brakes and stop short." (Wishful thinking on their part.) Anyway, I was pondering all of this the last time I was in the car with a friend, as I grabbed the hand-grip above the passenger window inside the car, to brace myself in case we crashed.

I suddenly had an "Aha! Moment." A true epiphany.

Bruce Lee Martial Arts Principle

The reason that their cavalier driving makes me so uncomfortable is that I was taught in martial arts "never to take my eyes of the opponent." (Credit to Bruce Lee.)

In my mind, the car in front of me is like my opponent.

It's sheer folly to look away.

Note: Remember, I tend to avoid 'spinning' kicks and hits for the very same reason.

I want to keep my eyes on my opponent at all times....

And I want my friends to keep their eyes on the car in front of them, too.

Martial Arts Over Training

Now, imagine if you always reinforce the principle of keeping your eyes on your opponent. Every time you are behind the wheel, you make it a point to practice internalizing this principle. You'll over train the idea by imprinting it so often, and so blatantly on your brain.

You'll always remember to focus on your opponent. (And you might even stay alive while driving.) At the very least, you will be spending your driving time considering martial principles, rather than yapping on the cell phone, and possibly (if you have a hand held phone) endangering the rest of us.

Now, are there other martial principles you could ponder while driving, riding a bike, or walking? If you are looking to be prepared, just in case, then ...

Download my new, free ebooklet, Ready for Anyone and Anything in a Fight

For an article on martial arts improvement, read Martial Arts Improvement.

Here's a site about punching harder and faster ... Free Punch ebook.

Keith Pascal is a martial-arts writer and has taught martial arts for 25 years.

Discovering the Three Levels of Martial Arts Secrets

All students want to know the secrets of the martial arts. There's got to be martial arts secrets behind all those blocks and strikes, right? Well, it may be tough for some people to handle, but this article is going to point you in the direction of those hidden gems that only the mightiest of the martial arts masters know.

One out of a thousand people who begin a study of the martial arts get a black belt. This is a sad commentary, and does not speak highly of the various styles, and especially of their teachers. So only one in a thousand people have gone to the top of their art and found the truth of the various taekwondo secrets and karate secrets.

Out of the thousand people who reach black belt, only one can be considered a real black belt. A real black belt (one in a million) is one who has 'matured,' which is the actual meaning of the word 'Dan,' which word signifies the levels of black belt. To mature means to give up the desire to fight, to stop being foolish, to take responsibility for what one does, and this is the indication that somebody actually understands the first level of mystery in the various types of martial arts.

Now, the story goes strange, for out of the people who learn the external arts to this high level, only one out of a thousand will study another art to the point of understanding that arts mysteries! This is the next stage of the martial arts mysteries: wudan kung fu secrets and aikido secrets. That's one in a billion who will actually pursue their dream to the point of understanding both the hard and the soft sides of the martial arts!

Now, of those billion people, only one in a thousand--that's right, one in a trillion--will finally understand the truth of the fighting disciplines. This means overcoming the slant and taint of school and system and such and actually perceiving the true physics inherent in the martial arts. The actual physics are described by such laws as 'For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction, but they develop into 'For every action there is a source point.'

Interestingly, one would assume that Wudan based arts, or Aikido, or that ilk, would teach second level physics. Unfortunately, though one does see isolated incidents of individual achievement, the arts themselves are biased and slanted. Just as a person who thinks he is the only one... isn't, so do arts which hold themselves up as the only one... are not.

Interestingly, and here is the crux of the problem, of the few people who do become capable, and who do manifest the second level of physics, none understand it. They teach through mysticism, you see, and do not offer concrete science for explaining what they are doing and why. For there to be a true art there must be a science, a system backed up by a method which works every time, and which leads one through and to solid manifestation of the second level of physics.

So one in a thousand actual learns an art, and one in a million actually becomes an artist, and one in a billion actually can do something which is mystical, which means they can do something which follows certain rules, but they have no idea what the rules are. And only one in a trillion has penetrated through to the third level of martial arts secrets. And if you want the secrets, study one art until you understand it, complement it with a second art until you understand it, then find the person who understands the science behind what you are doing, that is the only and true way to find out those fabulous martial arts secrets.

There really is a science which encompasses all martial disciplines, you can find it at Monster Martial Arts. Get a free ebook while you're at Monster Martial Arts. 2

Mixed Martial Arts: An Introduction to MMA

The popularity of mixed martial arts contests like the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) has soared exponentially over the last decade. However, some may still wonder just exactly what mixed martial arts is. Well, to a certain extent it's just what its name implies. It is the combining of different martial arts and the incorporation of those techniques into one's repertoire of fighting skills.

If mixed martial arts (MMA) is so popular, then why hasn't it been done before. Actually, it has been done before. The ancient Greek Olympics had a sport known as pankration which involved grappling and striking and had no rules. Pankration means "all powerful." Pankration was the no-holds-barred (NHB) fighting of its day. Vale tudo contests were popular in Brazil during the twentieth century. Vale tudo also had a limited number of rules. Vale tudo means "anything goes" in Portuguese. Vale tudo contests are probably the nearest descendant to the UFC.

As you can see, MMA is not exactly new. But, it's been perfected and polished to a high degree over the last few decades. When the UFC first began, it was merely a contest to see which martial arts discipline was superior. The Gracie family of Brazil believed that their Brazilian Jiu Jitsu was the best. And, to some extent they proved that it was. Royce Gracie won UFC 1, 2, and 4 often fighting against bigger opponents. I still enjoy watching videos of Royce. Royce Gracie put Brazilian Jiu Jitsu "on the map." However, the UFC evolved from its humble origins. Weight classes and other rules came into being. Competitors realized that they could combine wrestling, grappling, and striking skills. Thus, the sport of MMA was born.

For More UFC History, Check Out the Books:

Blood in the Cage: Mixed Martial Arts, Pat Miletich, and the Furious Rise of the UFC
A Fighter's Heart: One Man's Journey Through the World of Fighting

Boxing and Other Martial Arts

When I was growing up, boxers were well known in America. I was familiar with the names Muhammad Ali, Leon Spinks, Larry Holmes, George Foreman, Sugar Ray Leonard, Ray "Boom Boom" Mancini, Marvin Hagler, Thomas Hearns, Hector "Macho" Camacho, Oscar de la Hoya, Mike Tyson, James "Buster" Douglas, and Evander Holyfield. But, the popularity of boxing has diminished over the years perhaps in part because of the increased interest in MMA. The only boxers that I am very familiar with now are Floyd Mayweather, Andre Ward, Bernard Hopkins, and Manny Pacquiao. Boxing movies like Rocky may have contributed to its popularity. Even now, one can still see boxing movies such as The Fighter.

The Karate Kid introduced some of us to the discipline of karate. And, the movieKickboxer introduced me to Muay Thai. Steven Seagal did some interesting martial arts in his movies. Many of us have seen kung fu movies as well. I grew up in the Midwest, so I was always interested in wrestling. I took a Taekwondo class during college. I saw kickboxing competitions on television occasionally. There seemed to be a time when practitioners of a certain martial art weren't interested in learning another martial art and many people thought that the martial art of their choice was the best. MMA seems to have shown that a combination of fighting styles works the best to attain fighting dominance. Even the military and police forces utilize MMA techniques.

Primitive Mixed Martial Arts

The legendary Bruce Lee recognized that traditional martial arts had their limits and weren't always practical in real world situations. Bruce Lee studied and critiqued many traditional forms. Lee's approach to martial arts and his emphasis on practicality makes him a forerunner of mixed martial arts. "Judo" Gene LeBell defeated boxer Milo Savage in 1963 with a lapel choke in one of the first MMA type contests. In addition, Muhammad Ali fought Antonio Inoki to a draw in 1976 in what would be considered a primitive MMA contest.

Ground and Pound, Sprawl and Brawl, Submissions

As I discussed earlier, mixed martial arts, the UFC, and other MMA competitions came into being and showed that combining martial arts could create a dominant fighter. Soon strategies developed. Some competitors were better at wrestling so they liked to employ the "ground and pound" strategy. Some were better at kicking and punching so they employed the "sprawl and brawl" strategy. And, others were experts at submissions (lock and choke) sticking with that strategy.

Fighting Backgrounds

Mixed martial artists come from many different back grounds:

Royce Gracie - Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Pat Miletich - wrestling, karate, kickboxing

Matt Hughes - wrestling

Tito Ortiz - wrestling

Randy Couture - wrestling

Chuck Liddell - wrestling, Kempo, Koei-Kan Karate-do, and kickboxing

Keith Jardine - karate

Lyoto Machida - karate

B. J. Penn - Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Kazushi Sakuraba - catch wrestling

Fedor Elemianenko - sambo

Karo Parisyan - judo

These fighters, of course, combined other skills with their primary fighting style to be complete fighters.

Mixed martial artists combine many skills from many disciplines including but not limited to freestyle wrestling, Greco-Roman wrestling, catch wrestling, judo, sambo, Brazilian Jiu jitsu, Muay Thai, boxing, kickboxing, and karate.

Basil the Greek

I read a book while in elementary school called The Great Brain. In one story in this book, the Great Brain (Tom) helps teach a Greek immigrant boy how to fight in America so he won't get bullied and picked on. Tom notices that Basil isn't very good at boxing but is great at wrestling, especially headlocks. Tom develops a fighting strategy for Basil around this.

Here's a tiny excerpt from the book:

Tom and Basil were waiting inside the barn. "This is going to be a rough and tumble fight,"Tom announced. "Anything goes, lumberjack style."

"Suits me," Sammy said, grinning.

Well, Basil was able to catch Sammy in a headlock and straddle him on the ground (a la "ground and pound"). Basil was able to neutralize Sammy's punches and win the fight. That's how MMA works. A fighter can use his skills to neutralize the skills of another fighter. Combining skills works better than using one fighting skill exclusively.

There you have it. I hope you enjoyed this introduction to mixed martial arts. And, I hope you continue to watch and perhaps participate in this sport as it evolves and gains in popularity.

Tharin Schwinefus is a former high school conference wrestling champion and state qualifier. He maintains a passion and interest in all things related to the sport of wrestling. He is also passionate about the grappling arts and submission grappling. If you would like to read more information regarding grappling and wrestling then please visit http://essentialgrappler.webs.com/ and http://essentialwrestler.webs.com.

Mastering Effective Martial Arts Teaching - The Green Check Approach

More often than not Martial arts instructors approach the sale of their product thru two different venues: either the self-esteem approach or the self-defense approach. Either way an instructor approaches it to the child, parent, or adult student; an effective instructor can eventually blend the two approaches together in a way where the student not only gains the self-confidence, self awareness, self-respect or to sum-the self-esteem they need, but he/she also gains a defined and unique understanding of the material that they are learning.

All too often, however, Martial arts schools lose students due to their inability to blend the two approaches together. Two different scenarios would go like this: One, either the instructor allows for their students to develop sloppy technique, or have a misconstrued concept of their art due to the fact that the instructor doesn't want to offend or bruise their students fragile psyche. Two, the instructor becomes so focused on the self-defense aspect of the Art that they are teaching that they put that before the student. This student loses motivation quickly due to the lack of encouragement and charismatic touch that the instructor lacks that they simply quit because practicing Martial arts is no longer fun and exciting. The trick to effective Martial arts instruction is truly a blending of the two in a process called the Green Check approach.

To elaborate, the Green Check approach isn't a new way for Martial arts schools to do banking, instead it's an evolution in teaching that focuses on both the students intrinsic needs that he/she looks to gain from the art, but also on the art itself. It's a dynamic approach to teaching that uses classic techniques such as PCP (Praise-Correct-Praise) among other more modern teaching techniques, such as spotlighting (publicly singling out a student's performance) and direct-lighting (individually singling out a student's performance) to give the student both the physical and mental abilities necessary to be not only successful in the Martial arts, but in life as well. But how do Martial arts instructors use the Green Check approach effectively. In order to do it right, the instructor not only has to change how they teach, but also change how the student learns.

I'll give another example. Take the life of a normal ten-year-old boy named Billy. Billy wakes up on a Friday morning to his mom waking him up. Of course this is the third time his mother has come in the room to get Billy out of bed, so she makes a comment like, "I will not tell you again, I am so tired of doing this every day.... Get out of bed now or you will get it," or what have you. Well, Billy goes to school on the bus, and the only thing that he hears from the bus driver is, "sit down!!" Now Billy is at school and he gets his spelling test back from his teacher and it's covered with corrections in red ink. He also receives a book report back also covered in red ink, and a multiple choice test that is the same. Billy leaves school to go home to a list of chores, which include cleaning his room. He does them all superbly but at the end of the day when his mother comes home all she sees are his shoes laying in the middle of the room. Again she says something like, "I thought I told you to clean up your room. Do it now!!!" Even though Billy did, he just took off his shoes afterward. Now it's 6:30 and it's time for karate class, but on the way to karate class, he receives another lecture on how he really doesn't deserve to attend karate class today because his room was a mess and he was hard to get up on a Friday. What's the problem here?

Billy's life is nothing but a red X. He learns what not to do or how to fix something because everyone in his life is correcting him thru what he does wrong. An effective Martial arts instructor can't just be another one of those people who red X everything. They have to be a hero. By teaching with the idea of Green Checks rather than Red X's the instructor becomes just that. But what constitutes a Green Check? The answer: anything that the student performs well or better than the time before. Time for another example, but this time I'll demonstrate how to use the Green Check approach correctly.

So Billy made it to class after all, and in class today one thing that the class is working on is the Horse stance. It's a classic stance found in almost all Martial arts styles. Feet shoulder width and a half apart, knees bent deep, back straight, toes pointing forward, hands up and pulled tight... but Billy, even though he is working hard, just doesn't quite get it. His knees are bent, but his posture is slouching, his feet aren't aligned properly and his body is way too tense to relax into his stance like he needs to in order to make the stance effective. An instructor who is just a part of Billy's world of Red X's would simply walk up to Billy and say, "Don't slouch, straighten your back... fix your feet... bend your knees more." I wonder how long Billy is going to think Martial arts are fun with that approach? But Billy's instructor is really a master of Green Check Fu so when he walks up to Billy, the scenario is much different. He would approach Billy with raised eyebrows and big eyes and say something like, "Wow Billy, your horse stance is really deep, I really like how your knees are bent. But we can make your stance even better by doing one thing. If you straighten your back and relax your shoulders... excellent Billy just like that... oh, and where are those toes supposed to be facing?... exactly, forward just like you have them now. Man Billy, your stance was good before, but now... wow, you have got it going on... your back is straight, your knees are bent... Billy I think you are on your way to greatness here... high five... keep up the good work."

See the difference. Not only did the Green Check instructor correct Billy's technique, he gave Billy praise in the process, thereby achieving the blended balance mentioned earlier; and it can be bet that the next time Billy performs a Horse stance in class, he will be an even bigger success at it because he will strive for the level that his instructor set for him. Not because he doesn't want to be corrected again, which is the approach that he has with the rest of life from home to school; but because he is looking for another high five which he will get because that same instructor cares enough about Billy to ensure that he does. I'll put it differently. Instead of spending his time figuring out ways to eliminate Red X's in his life Billy is figuring out ways to gain more Green Checks.

That is what the Green Check approach is all about. Generating students that seek the positive things that they have and can accomplish rather than students that are struggling to have less negative in their lives. This, over time, leads to the self-esteem gains that Martial arts has to offer, while still maintaining the integrity of the Art itself which compounds on developing more than just an effective Martial Artist, but an effective person.

Michael D. Hamel

Michael D. Hamel is a Third Degree Black Belt in MudoKwan Taekwando. He has been an avid practicer in the Martial arts for well over the last decade, and has been teaching for the last 5 years under Martial Arts America in Pace, Fl. He is currently attending University of West Florida for a degree in Philosophy with a specialization in Religious Studies, minoring in Business Management, and Marketing Applications and acquiring certifications in Ethics, and Sales Marketing. He is scheduled to graduate in Spring 2012.