ninjanurse

Olympic style sparring is more than just two kicks-you can use any kick you want to score with! The game is strategy and control and each technique MUST cause trembling shock to the body or head. The face is not considered a target and incidental contact may or may not cause a loss of points depending on the circumstances. Hands can be used to the body but not the head (a rule that is constantly debated), and knock outs are not comon but do occur and result in a win. And, in contrast to point sparring, rounds are continuous with no stopping for points-the only stops occuring for infractions of the rules and warnings.

There are different kiaps for different techniques or situations; and some forms even have different ones in them (heians for example). Their purpose is to express different levels of energy. I always find that each student puts his/her own bend on their kiap and you can identify them just by the sound. We use this during demonstrations as signals to team members.

Right now....nada! However, when I am healthy I train daily for 1-2 hours at home and attend classes 4-5 times weekly.

There is a certain amount of respect expected at all belt levels and it should be given as this is how you earn respect from others. Even the most vile student in the school should be given respect as to fail to would be disrespectful to your master and system. Let someone else sort it out!

Unless you are just visiting you shouldn't wear another schools uniform as this could be taken as overt disrespect. As far as wearing a white belt or taking a lower kyu ranking goes, if you don't like it don't train there. However, if you want to train there and are humble in spirit, it won't matter what color belt you wear because it is about that martial artist you are and you will be noticed and advanced accordingly. You have to earn the respect of your new master instructor...it can't be inferred just because you wear a black belt-even if it is from the same style! I have been there several times and never have regretted "starting over"...not once!! Each time has been a rewarding experience. The definition of a mature mind: To give without remembering, to receive without forgetting. You have a lifetime to see but a small part of a much bigger picture....even a brief glimpse from another perspective has value.

This past year I was in the best shape I have ever been in during my 26 years of martial arts training so I can't argue that being over the hill means a decline in fitness, but, I can say that as we age we have to learn to train smarter. Physiologically there are changes that occur that we have no control over yet as martial artists we adapt and respond accordingly. As I sit here recovering from knee surgery, I will say that recovery time from injury is longer as I grow older and is more painful emotionally than physically.

Google Professor Wally Jay for more info on small circle jujitsu. It is basically a theory of style by which various techniques are made more effective using principles of the small circle (physics). It applies to both armed and unarmed combat....and is not a modern theory but an ancient one brought into modern language.

Hey from NY! Welcome to the forums!

My sentiments exactly!

Having had training and experience in this area I argree with JusticeZero...small circle jujitsu. In fact most law enforcement related martial arts training utilize many small circle techniques and theories.

Been there too! My advice is to be true to yourself and continue to practice high quality martial arts as you cannot make other people accountable period. Be patient and your sensei will notice your effort. As far as teenage boys go...sparring with them will only make you better-especially when it gets rough. Hit or be hit!

it is quite possible to acheive a brown belt in about a year (given certain circumstances) however, in my experience, most students that do this spend the next 2-3 years trying to grade for BB because they are lacking in the other qualities necessary. It is not just about how good you can kick and punch because if it was, it would be a McDojo for sure.

I once witnessed a young 2nd degree BB lose his belt wile he was assisting at a test. The Master Instructor himself took it away!!!! Of course he would have had the opportunity to earn it back but we never saw the kid again. I myself have never had to demote a student but I have denied advancement-usually for character/behavior problems.

Nice article. My body reminds me everyday that I'm no spring chicken anymore!

Welcome!

Howdy!

Exactly..a mechanical system is bound by the principals of physics, and whether it is simple or complex makes no difference. There is no dispute that using the hips make a punch more powerful...but how and why this happens is explained by science. Also, we are talking pure technique here not the complexities of a fight so no offense taken as we seem to be comparing apples and oranges.

Check this one out-not as scary and easier to use. http://www.softcup.com/

I never let it "cramp" my style! In fact, exercise actually helps. As for leaks,no problem...use a menstrual cup or super tampon and wear a pad.

You don't get more power with your shoulders down or up. It's a matter of wasting energy-strictly physics and kinetics. Tension and distance waste energy that could be put to use at the point of impact. Waste not -want not!

IMO, a dynamic stretch is one where the muscle groups are performing the intended action while stretching is going on (and there is no bouncing going on) . For example: sitting on the floor with legs apart and relaxed-stretching to each side, etc. would be passive, while turning the foot and hip to a side kick position and stretching while the muscles are flexed would be dynamic. Also, ahp budo oligi* in TKD is a dynamic stretch as all muscles are in action at the top of the kick (stretch). *front leg stretch, front raise, etc.

Work on each technique separately. This includes transitions and footwork. Do it over and over and over...and then some more. Then, as already posted, do the entire kata at varying speeds and intensity, on different surfaces, in someone elses dojo, watch in mirrors, do with eyes closed, etc. The idea is to develop the techniques within the kata and become comfortable with them under any circumstances so that you are solid when you compete.

Sometimes physical adaptation is easier than mental.

I train at a small school that only divides classes by age not belt level. I have been campaigning for a change but no luck so far. Teaching a multilevel class has it's challenges-especially when they are kids but it is not impossible. It is a good opportunity to start giving responsibility to higher belts and build confidence, as well as identify students who may need some one-on-one. Either way is do-able but for larger schools I think you need to divide by age and belt level in order to maintain quality.

Relaxation.....EXPLOSION!