ninjanurse

I generally agree here-bunkai first. Decide what to teach first, then figure out how to teach it-applies not only to kata.

I think kata is an integral part of traditional martial arts. Having only one limits the number of solutions (bunkai) to explore but that does not mean we have to have so many. A good topic for reflection-gives me an idea for my next project!

Congratulations!

Not what I was expecting to see at all...very soft...no hips. I'll admit I have never heard of this particular "style" and will have to do some research.

The association I belong to charges high fees for dan testing....but it's all relative to what you get out of it and what value you place on it.

Hee Hee...been there! When a student makes a comment such as "but she's a girl" or if a girl whines and pulls the "but I'm a girl card" I simply remind them that "there are no boys or girls here only martial artists". I treat them all alike and expect them to do the same.

Yes, congratulations!

Traditionally, the role of the sempai was to oversee the training and development of lower ranking students and to the protect the sensei. They were hand-picked for their skills and loyalty and were often privy to sensitive information regarding the sensei and dojo. Not a position to be taken lightly and those that slacked off or failed in their duties were replaced quickly. In todays dojo it is hard to find that one student who desires to fill this role in the traditional sense and who is willing to commit their life to the preservation of the art...but they are out there. I pay my sempai with knowledge and experience. Can you put a price on that?

Just thinking about what has been said here (and I do agree with it) and in other posts in the thread "Teach for Free?"and it brings to mind the question "What are the duties and responsibilities of the senior student (sempai)?" Is the traditional role of the sempai evident in most schools these days or are students simply paid to assume those duties?

"The trouble with most of us is that we would rather be ruined by praise than saved by criticism."-Norman Vincent Peale A good piece of advice we often discuss around testing time-especially with the younger students. Food for thought for all!

As you get higher be careful not to hyper-extend your supporting leg....a common problem that can effect balance and create undue stress on the knee. Focusing on using the ball of the foot as your pivot point can help. It also helps to think about reaching towards your target with your foot as you execute the kick-a mental exercise that helps to keep your hips over your base instead of shifting backwards and changing your balance point.

What value? Extreme High value! To learn how to properly teach the martial arts is tantamount to a pilot not knowing how to fly! To be taught anything, one must first be fully engaged by ones instructor intimately. A very competent as well as capable instructor base must be in place for the future of the style to continue. Otherwise, it's time to pack up and go home! Exactly my point. Such a relationship can not be reduced to a dollar amount but should highly valued in terms of experience, knowledge, and loyalty. This is not to say that instructors should not be compensated in some way-but for the sake of our art we must be careful not to lose sight of the original intent of our masters and their teachings.

Exactly what value do you place on the experience gained by learning to teach others?

Welcome!

Welcome back!

Welcome!

It seems that no matter how many times you show/explain the difference in the chambers of the kicks they still throw it as described (half side/half round). My theory is poor practice habits(...if I could only be a fly on the wall!!!!).

WTF here.

I'm thinkin' that most people have the idea that all martial arts are "empty hand" arts-I get that question too when talking to new students.

Congratulations!

Thanks for the article. Good read!

Exactly....well said!

2 cents (of many) : The standards should be equal but a 9 yr old black belt should never be compared to an adult-you have to compare kids with kids! Kids are often never given the credit they are due. If you raise your expectations they will rise to meet them. I am all for a Jr. Black Belt rank-what would be the purpose of not allowing a child to continue to advance their training just because they started their training when they were 6? There is a lot to be learned....time will take care of the rest.

Welcome!

My homey's from RENO at Martial Arts on the Move!!!! Interesting that you found that one Tony!