CloudDragon

After working several years as an EMT and Firefighter and seeing the effects of people smashing their heads into windshields, I can tell you the hammerfist would most likely not work, the problem is the disks between the neck that would absorb the impact. It would be more likely that this move would simply break the skull and injure the brain before it broke the neck.

Sounds like a great opportunity!

I would try to get on the Lexis/Nexis database, it has a case law section that is incredible, and pretty easy to search. The next option would be to find a reference librarian, paralegal or lawyer who would be willing to help you search through a law library. It's not hard to learn, but something that you will need help to start.

I use extra virgin olive oil, it works as well as linseed oil, but you want to be sure to wipe it well and let it dry. I have been using it since 1990 with my bo and it is still in great condition.

I would encourage you to see if you are learning the complete system. Many people "create" their own style that can be great for them but will not work for others. The traditional systems usually provide a wider range of techniques that are suitable for many different people.

Yes, and yes, if you study both styles completely and not as a hybrid, I feel they are very complimentary systems.

I absoulutely agree with your thoughts on this, but where are the people who want this mixing of martial arts and gymkata? Where are there cries of the extremists to be competing against martial artists? Hmm, maybe tournament promoters should consider this.

I can see the instructor trying to make a little off of the sale, the shipping has gone through the roof lately and the school owners with their wholesale accounts are taking the hit. However, a 100% markup is pretty much crackhead prices. I would seriously look at how many advanced students this instructor has as compared to newer (less than a year) students. It seems that this guy might not be able to hold on to students and is trying to get them for all that he can while he can.

The handgun would be the most obvious choice for the "life or death" situation, it is most likely that the majority of us will never be faced with the situation. So, the best choice in my opinion would be a small collapsable baton. Mine is about 6" closed and 18" extended. It fits easily in a jacket pocket or large pants pocket. The greatest strength of the baton is that it allows for more control over the force delivered and the location of the impact. The downside, alot less "stopping power" for those who do not invest the needed training time to register a disabling strike with a baton as opposed to a handgun. One other note, if I was ever in a altercation, I would rather pull a baton as opposed to a gun, for me personally there is too much to consider in too short of a time span. With a baton I can stun the aggressor and consider my next move, but with my gun, I still have not found the "Stun" setting.

Wow, so you don't practice anything but tying your belt? After all, even a good block could break an arm, and that would cause permanent damage. However, maybe I am over-reacting, just what techniques don't you practice?

Aces, I agree, the head kicks are pretty dangerous on both ends. Some, a very few, can make them work. But, I was wondering about the great deal of sparring techniques that you felt do not work based on your street experience?

My concern is that you feel that you must take such a stand with your instructor. Why not ask his permission? In my opinion, it is disrespectful to "inform" an instructor of a decision like this. If you feel that you must approach your instructor in this manner, it seems that it may prove beneficial to move out of this school entirely.

Throwing wooden stars? Where can I find these?

First, knowing something is different from being able to teach someone, as was stated here earlier. I have been the student of some incredibly intelligent people who couldn't teach a pre-schooler how to tie velcro shoes. I have found the most captivating, and beneficial teachers had an "infectious passion" for their art. This usually was shown in a dynamic, humorous personality that struck a balance with fair discipline and an ability to push students farther than they thought possible.

I am not being disrespectful, but could you be more specific? What sparring techniques have you tried that did not work on the street?

Welcome!

try an XXL

They are the kind used in amateur boxing. Search for boxing equipment and I'm sure you will find them.

Playing the devil's advocate here, I personally prefer the 2" belt, if you get a good belt i.e.: Tokaido, Shuriedo, etc. You will have a "break in" period, but they are well worth it, especially if you are in a style that doesn't change belts for every rank.

Having experience with both, I would say that it comes down to the school itself. I worked out with a friend who was a 2nd dan in kenpo and I loved it, however, when I went to a school that taught it, I didn't care for it as much. (the strikes didn't seem to follow a logical reaction/response rhythm) The TKD schools I have been at all emphasize kicks, some more practical than others. I would suggest that you explore all of your options and find what suits you best. If you aren't comfortable training there, then don't. It has never failed me yet, and I think it will be the same for you.

I always take a hot shower and do some light cardio to make sure the muscles are warmed up before stretching. I also do cool down stretching after EVERY workout. Since I started doing this 2 years ago I have had no pulled muscles, very rare and minor soreness, and I went from belt high to head high kicks. BTW I am also 33.

OMG, that was great!

Q: What's the difference between a cat and a dog? A: The dog thinks you are family, The cat thinks you are staff.

Mr. Mike, Sorry I didn't read this sooner. 1. You were justified in your actions, and if you would have turned him into a pile of goo, I can't think of a cop that would have said anything about it. It was "Defense of a third person" 2. The male is a chunk of crap, and in the mental health field, would get the diagnosis of "is too stupid to live" and in my opinion should not be privvy to breathe the same air as you and me. 3. While I respect you for trying to give this being a second chance, with all respect; What kind of a bonehead lets a convicted rapist live under the same roof as his children? I am a mental health nurse and can understand that they can be very convincing, but people don't just get snatched off the street and convcited of these things. 4. As you rebuild your family, I wish you the best and feel that you have truly learned your lesson the hard way. 5. Your sister needs help, you have done what you can to give it to her, but remember this: She will drag you into her problems and use you for her own means. (I think you have figured this out.) I don't pretend to know all of the answers, but after dealing with these people for some time, I would be glad to help someone who has been a victim of their selfishness. PM me and we could discuss this more if you want. CD

Nice line up! I would add a glock and the ruger mk2 and you would have a great representation of some great self defense weapons. So, how did things go, what did you think of the weapons?