mindsedgeblade

You're right, the belt just holds the gi. So why should one belt be worth more than any other? They're not, at least to me. It's not the rank, or belt color, it's what's in your heart and mind. Who says women can't do anything a man can? =;-} (This coming from a man) I've met plenty of women who are more than my match- through brains, talent, training, whatever. Doesn't bother me at all. Just makes me train all the harder. lol

I ran track and cross country before starting karate. They definitely helped with general physical condition, but the biggest thing I've found is perseverence. Where I see other people bringing problems into the dojo, or missing a lot of workouts, I'm there if it's at all possible. Cross country really taught me that you can't give up on something... for pain, fatigue, or whatever. Running hurdles in track helped with flexibility and leg strength. Unfortunately, running doesn't build the kind of arm strength you need for push-ups and fast punches.

I agree the child has put in a lot more time. But two classes a week? For two years? That doesn't sound like enough time to learn the very basics, much less a black belt. In my school, it takes at least three years, and the last, you have to work out twice a day six days a week. I like the idea of a junior black belt for kids under sixteen. They may have put in the effort, but this would signify that they didn't do the same things as an adult. Then, when they turn sixteen, they can test for full.

That's awesome! Might be the best MA story I've ever heard. I hope my kids kids will feel the same as your son. That's still a looong way down the road of course. =;-}

There were a few a loong time ago, but that was kid stuff, like on the playground. No real intent to hurt somebody, and I don't even remember how they turned out. Mostly I'm just good at ignoring fools who don't know enough to keep their mouths shut. Both my younger brothers have different methods of dealing with people- such as befriending almost anybody, or being a real smart aleck. Me, I'm more of a loner, which might be part of what drew me to MA.

I like mine broken in, but not wimpy and flimsy. The belts we use are generally pretty thick, so they hold up really well. I hate new belts- all stiff and they never hold a knot, and the ends curl up really wierd depending how you store a belt. For length, I prefer about 12" out either end of the knot- so it's about mid thigh, or maybe just above the knee. I was growing attached to my old blue belt- had the droop just right, and it didn't fight the knot any more. Now I just have to train myself and my new green belt harder to get it right.

I haven't yet, but I'm sure I'll soon have to start leading the class in stretching and stuff. I'm always helping people with kata and technique, but that's more one-on-one. =;-}

I've started to borrow one from a blackbelt in my school. It's a kind ai-ahh. Maybe a little corny, but anything's gotta be better than the real weak one I started out with.

Cool. I'm at Penn State, just wondered if you were around. Silat sounds really interesting, and I'll probably look for a place to learn wherever I end up next.

Where are you in PA fallen_milkman? What is kuntao, and where did that screenname come from?

2 minutes? So that's what, 20/25? lol -I could maybe get thru 35 before they mobbed my legs and dragged me down.

20, and just tested for my green belt. Gotta say though, I was liking my blue belt. Oh well, just gotta train harder to break in the new one.

Question about wearing a white belt when moving to a new school... I know one guy that wears a white belt in my school that moved from a Kempo school. Is it customary to wear a white belt when you move to a new school? Same style or different styles, or different branch? I'll be a red belt most likely when I have to leave my school, just wondering what others think. And what do you think about wearing an old gi to the new school?

"Must not pass out..." Of course, last night was no ordinary workout. I just got my green belt! A three hour test including bag rounds, self defense, mat fighting, sparring, and jump kicks. Needless to say, I'm a little sore today, but very proud.

Do they get to use their toys? Webshooters and the ability to stick to walls might just balance al battie's utility belt goodies.

I like that idea. It wouldn't be too hard to do either. But then I'd really get my kata mixed up =:-}

If there are any bulletin boards available, use them. People are in the gym, they might look for a better way to keep in shape. Same goes for the HS, Junior High, Post Office... Just in case you haven't already.

I usually just get looks that ask "Are you crazy?" One girl has started calling me "karate boy," but no one has really asked me to show them anything.

We have two or three per belt level in my school. Each incorporates technique you learn as you progress. so... white belts learn: kiban 1-3; main stances (front, back, horse riding), different levels for strikes yellow belts learn: pyong-an cho-dan and ei-dan; different blocks, stance transitions, and incorporating kicks ...

I should try that for finals.... And wear my dojo's t-shirt =:-}

What I'm already training in: TKD +boxing+ Ju Jitsu +bo ( and later escrima, jo, and sword)+ knife and then add: pentjak silat for sheer effectiveness and more weapons

http://www.centuryfitness.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10051&storeId=10051&productId=64999&langId=-1&categoryId=13512&parent_category_rn=13501 http://www.centuryfitness.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10051&storeId=10051&productId=65001&langId=-1&categoryId=13501&top=y These have some stretch, and I like mine. I ordered them through my school, so I think they were slightly cheaper.

A little kids' song with a bad little bunny. Boppin' field mice on the head. Somebody keeps telling him not to... and I don't remember the moral =:-}

I saw a really cool sword, and came up with mine. Now, being in MA, it makes a lot more sense. Especially if you think of the mind as your first and best weapon.

There are some bizarre ones... A lot just look like a nightmare to use- as dangerous to the wielder as the enemy.