HumanLearnings

I am very grateful for the replies so far. You have raised some points I never thought of or perhaps I once knew but forgot. Some of these are: 1. Physical as well as mental transfer of training. Yes, I have benefited from that myself, especially the value of learning how to fall. I also think it has kept me free of back pain while so many of my co-workers have succumbed. I work at a computer all day like they do but I have better posture and I take breaks to stretch. 2. I see several stories about how martial art training helps people stay calm and control situations in a dignified and respectful way. It first surprised me that true martial artists were stronger adherents of non-violence than the untrained people I knew. But over time I realized why. 3. I see several stories of how the practice has given people more energy and drive. This was a big gain for me. I was calm already, no problem, but too calm – maybe sluggish. I credit my training towards helping me develop a spirit of endeavor. 4. Several people spoke of self-confidence and self-awareness (what you can and cannot do). Those were great. Also patience is mentioned and thoughtful analysis of learning. 5. Someone asked, I think, if I am going to teach these principles. No, I will never teach martial arts though I do practice it regularly. My interest in this topic does not stop with martial arts, however, as there are similar gains from other forms of mastery such as playing the violin. I do think, however, there are some gains from martial arts practice that no other form of mastery can provide. 6. A couple of people, I think, were concerned that I thought that some mental and personality qualities can only be gained through the martial arts. There are other factors such as faith and family. I assure you that I do not think that martial arts is essential to becoming a calm, controlled, respectful, confident, etc. human being. Some people have it all already and martial arts is just compatible with who they are. Some people train and get no benefit along these lines. But some of us, like myself, have some serious “flaws” that may be mitigated through this type of training. In my case, as I said above, the flaw was lack of spirit and the desire to set and attain goals. Well, if I don’t see any more posts I will be happy with what I see. Thanks again.

I have been training in the martial arts for several decades and during that time a number of my fellow students and several sensei’s have discussed the ”transfer” of martial arts training to everyday work and personal encounters. What does “transfer” mean? One sensei, who worked for IBM, told the story of how one day at work a co-worker was verbally attacking his project. Sensei said that his training in karate allowed him to stay calm, control his anger, and wait for his adversary to make a mistake and overplay his hand. Sensei then countered with spirit and controlled energy and won the day. In other words the self-control, attitude and spirit one develops to handle physical attacks helps one deal with day to day verbal encounters more effectively. So..if you want to respond to this topic, I ask if you can answer the following two questions as part of your post. I may use the answers for a book I’m writing but if I do I will not include names or other information that would identify anyone. I will, however, give credit to the forum. 1. Why do you practice karate? 2. Does the practice of karate in any way affect your behavior at work and in your personal life? if so, give me some examples of those effects. But please, don’t reveal any specific information such as names, places, etc. that could be harmful or embarrassing for someone.

Yes, I find it very useful. Sometimes Sensei will tell me that I am leaning during my back stance but I can't feel it. But I can see it if I video myself. My trick is to make it very easy so I put a wide angle lens on my iPhone ($20) and then prop it up with a very small wood clamp from the hardware store. Use one with soft rubber jaws. With the video on the phone for a while it is also very easy to review before my next self training session.

Hi, my name is Paul Tynan and I live in the Boston area. I train at the Boston Karate Club in Brookline, MA in the Shotokan style and am presently a purple belt.