shotochem

I agree with Anon if you have good STRONG kata (not just pretty dancing) you should do fairly well in a sparring situation. If you dont have GOOD basics you cant do either very well IMHO. The technique will just not work.

Tiger Balm!!! Elixer of the Karate Gods!!!

I started karate a couple of years ago when my son 6 at that time was taking class. I did not have the nerve to try it. I was overweight and out of shape and feeling older than I was. With a little bit of encouragement from the sensei and a couple of the adults I gave it a try. Two years later my son switched to another style and Im still training Ive lost 50lbs and feel 10 years younger. I have learned what you think may be impossible can be accomplished with a lot of hard work. If someone like me can do it so can everone else too...... :up:

I believe the nastier more agressive and bloodthirsty people tend to be the greater fighters. Size and weight really do matter. If that dont work bite someones ear off... "Some humans have yet to evolve......."

I can feel your pain.... :bawling:

If you laugh after they hit you it really messes with thier heads....does my technique work???... is he just crazy???......help this guys a Psyco!!!!.....

I have my son with me when I train Its a good way to spend quality time

Angus, dont let what happened consume you. Instead of looking to get back at them use all that fire and energy to train harder to prevent this from happening again. Remember what went wrong and do not repeat it. The trouble is not worth it. Take care....

Yes, you need spirt to fight as for spirituality Ill pray for my enemies soul and forgiveness after he is neutralized. IMHO religion should be a personal thing and should not be practiced in a dojo. There are many people of different religions who should not have someone elses belief pushed on them. If Iwant to pray I go to church.

The only enlightenment Ive ever recieved in Karate training is block faster or get hit!!!! :idea: However if I do become enlightened Ill be sure to post it. :grin:

greatness should not only be measured by acomplishments. A "great" person IMO should have wisdom, understanding, compassion, strenght of character, heart and perserverence. If we all had these qualities the world would be a lot nicer to live in.

Tiger Balm the gift of the Karate Gods...

Sai, people like yourself are an inspiration to others without a disibility. It is a pleasure to read your posts and insight as well as everyone else. Im sure they will enjoy this site.

Minh, I did state that my anomosity was directed towards the French government. I believe they should be a little more supportive towards our effort against terrorism. It would take a 747 flying into the eiffel tower to get them to move. (may you never experience what we have seen in New York) Les Français sont de bonnes gens Vivent longtemps les fran!!!!!! I hope this translates correctly....

Osama Bin Laden,Saddam Heussain, all of France (govt only ) And most of all...... Jared from the Subway comercials.... he pisses me off... :mad:

AO, thanks for clarifing that I did not realize that you pushed toward them after pulling. That explains it. :idea:

I ve always assumed the law was to use equal or reasonable force against an attacker??? IMHO I would rather be tried by 12 than carried by 6. But thats just me......

AO, how far down do you pull your opponents arm down after you cross over? I have occasionally grabbed the right sleeve of my opponents gi with my left hand while moving in punching with the right but I just do it to turn him and get an opening. Its a pulling across diagonal motion. How do you cross over to to grabbing across without recieving a counter from the other hand?? Im just a little confused.....(as usual )

I personally do not pay much attention to those with their egos and insecurities. I train for me. Some people take themselves to seriously. When I find it not to be fun anymore, Ill hang up my gi and go bowling instead........I give respect to all until they give me a reason not to. One should not be looking for respect it should be there, given freely based upon your actions and example. (I wish I knew this 20 yrs ago)

Bon, a few times Ive gotten into a rut as you described. My little rut would last a week or two then I would have a week or two where I would learn alot. Perhaps it has to do with taking one class a week. (I train 3-4 days a week when the wife and kids let me)I know when I take more than 4 or 5 days off it Im stiff and a little off for a couple of days. I find that I tend to learn in spurts. All are different, good luck to you if you do not enjoy where you are training, it might be time to move on.

Hey everyone, thanks for all the helpful info. Im going to give it a try. Ill let you know if it works.

KC, thanks for the info. I know someone taking it and he found it to be helpful. I am concerned as to if it has any negative side affects short or long term. How long have you been taking it? Have you heard of any long term studies on it?

I get the occasional snap crackle pop in the hips and shoulders. I thought I would give Glucosamine a try on the advice of someone I train with. Does anyone have any experience with taking this stuff? Will it have any side effects or long term effects? Will it help prevent excessive wear and tear on the joints? Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

While on the subject of gis, does anyone have any suggestions on how to keep your gi pants from sliding down so much??? I have no butt.... :idea: just wondering...

I prefer the heavy weight too. It feels like a suit of armor. It adds a sense of security and a bit of confidence. ***It makes nice sounds during kata!!!!! :brow: :brow: :brow: