Venrix

To be honest, I would very much advise against this (in the first instance). Yes, most fights go the ground but, we are not talking about figthing here. Additionally, in any fight system - going to the ground is the LAST option. On the ground you become nothing more than a 'sitting duck' for multiple attackers. Indeed, one should be aware of how to deal with the situation if FORCED to the ground. But, taking the fight to the ground on the street is a big, big mistake. -V-

Hi Gumbi, You mention that you see Kyokushin as coming 'after' Muay Thai and/or Boxing. I'm intrigued. Are you experienced in these three styles? On what basis do you draw your conclusions? -V-

The only real 'downside' to Kyokushin is the lack of throwing, ground skills and 'head strikes'. That said, it is without a doubt the most 'intense' form of Karate you could choose to practise. If you are looking for 'stand up fighting only' then this is the perfect choice. However, if you would like to become an 'all round fighter' then you will need to compliment Kyokushin with other arts (eg. Judo, Jiu Jitsu). If you like - take a look at my signature. I've put together a 'beginners guide'. It should tell you everything you need to know. -V-

The strangest advice I've ever heard is, "focus on an object in front of you" when the target we are attacking is behind us. Such foolishness worries me... The single most imporant rule of a strong back kick (there are many areas to consider - this just happens to be the most important) is: Never take your eyes off the target. Watch it before you turn, be watching it as you turn. Be watching it as you extend your leg, and be watching it as you drive your foot into it. If you 'keep your eye on the ball', all the other parts 'balance, timing, co-ordination, power, control' etc will slowly come in. Your body will 'teach itself' to provide what is needed to strike that 'target' effectively. First teach your eyes - and let your brain take care of the rest (through repetition). -V-

Hey All, I'm originally from Wales. I've been moving around within Europe for many years and I've been here in Germany for the last Eight years. I've experienced training in many Dojos throughout continental Europe and to be honest, I'm pleased with what I've experienced. There is a terrible misconception within the Arts that the best Karateka are Japanese, that the best Jiu Jitsu Players are Brazilian, that the best Judo players are Japanese, that the best Wing Tsung men/women are Chinese. In my experience, the best Martial Artists I have ever known or trained with have all been European. They typically have a healthy respect for the reality of violence (and we Europeans really do have our own special breed of violence - that's why the bad guy in Movies is always English) and therefore, a healthy respect for their art. Yes, there are McDojo's. Yes - I've met a fair few muppets and puppets. But, generally - I have learned from anyone and everyone I have ever met. I've had the pleasure of training in 'spit, sweat and saw dust' 8 man Dojo's and I've known the delights of training in 300 man strong palatial Dojos. I've had the privelidge of training with 10. Dans and the honour of training with 10. Kyus. I've trained with Royal Marines and I've engaged in cerebral fisticuffs with pacifists. Throughout all of these experiences, I have been overwhelmed by the sense of honour and respect that has permeated the hearts of these martial artists. I see consistant evidence that this is representative of the majority here in Europe. Indeed, here in Europe the sense that one is 'leading a life of honour, strength and respect' is what keeps people in the martial arts. It may not be the original motivation for participation - but, those that stay, do it because of this sense of respect. This simply doesn't happen in Japan etc. For them, 'Combat Sports' is bigger than soccer is here in Europe. It's just the 'done' thing. It's taught as Physical Education in schools. Mothers and Children go to the arena to watch a fight in the same way that Dads here in Europe take a child to watch a football match. I am saddened by politics in the Martial Arts. It is the one subject that I simply refuse to discuss. Politics destroys the integrity of the Arts worldwide and this problem exists in Europe as it exists throughout the world. I am concerned only with the standards of training and the 'philosophy and approach' of Martial Arts practitioners. And I'm pleased to say that here in Europe, these standards are very high indeed. -V-

Hi osuperu! I seem to be following you around the board and bombarding you with my opinions. It's nothing personal - it's just working out that way. How does one stay focused? The answer to this question is different for every individual. Since, the root of focus lies in a single question: "Why am I doing this?" If you are not able to answer this question for yourself then focus will always be an issue for you. I'm not suggesting that you list your reasons for training here in the forum. Indeed, I suggest that your innermost motivations remain personal and undiscussed. Why? Because even the strongest amongst us can begin to doubt ourselves when hundreds of people (online) start 'attacking/knocking' our motivations. I suggest you simply ask yourself: "Why am I doing this?" Then ask yourself: "Am I getting what I want?" If you are - you will have no problem staying focused on your personal goal - whatever that goal may be. If you are not - is this because the Dojo you are training in, or the instructor that you are training with cannot give you what you seek? Or, is it that you are allowing yourself to take your eyes away from your goal? Decide what you want. Decided how badly you want it. And, decided how far you are prepared to push yourself to get it. Good luck my friend. On a side note: From your questions (in other posts) on condititioning to your concerns regarding focus, you are asking us (and asking yourself) all the same questions that I asked when I began taking training seriously. I truley believe that you are head very much in the right direction. -V-

Your entire post was 100% on the money. Great stuff. 100% agreement from me. Of course, your points do not just apply to the comparison between martial arts and boxing. They simply compare the difference between any martial art practised as a fighting system and any martial arts that is practised as a sport. The training regime outlined in the original post is all about sport. Boxing is a Martial Art. It is an art that limits itself to the use of fist strikes and avoidance techniques. Nevertheless, there is boxing as a fighting system and boxing as a sport. The training involved in boxing as a sport is no more intense than any other combat sport. -V-

The 'martial' needs of a police officer/security-guard/doorman/bouncer etc. are completely different to the needs of the average man on the street. I have worked as a doorman, I have lived on the street, and I am about to suggest two martial arts: 1) Hapkido: I don't practise it. But, the primary martial need of security personal is NOT fighting. Indeed, the target is to subdue one or more opponents. Hapkido focuses very heavily on 'standing submission'. Joint manipulation etc. Not the most effective form of 'self defense' by any means - but, a police officer is actually limited in his/her use of force. A police officers goal in a violent conflict is: "Subdue and Apprehend." 2) Western Boxing: Learn to throw a mean punch and learn to stay away from mean punches. Where multiple opponents are involved, or where the assailant is considerably stronger than you - you may be forced to become the aggressor in order to successfully defend. When that happens - strike and strike HARD. Why am I not suggesting my own style? Because, I practise a style that is based on 'street' confrontation. That is - where the combatants are obeying only the 'rules of the street'. We are unbound by the rules that a law enforcement officer is forced to follow. Our target is not apprehension. Our target (in order of preference): 1) Avoidance 2) Dissuasion 3) First Strike 4) Control, Disable. Not entirely dissimilar but certainly more 'direct' than a police officer will ever be able to justify. When choosing a 'style' one must accept that the needs of the few may not be the same as the needs of the many. The man on the street does not have the 'benefits' of backup, handcuffs, guns and a uniform that says 'laying a hand on me will likely land you in Jail'. For the man on the street, 'subdue your opponent', is most likely not a viable option. For a police officer in a violent situtation - it is the single goal. -V-

Hi guys, Maybe you can help? I'm looking for the Romanji and Kanji that translates to 'My Way'. As in Frank Sinatra's, "I did it my way." Or as in, "I do it my way". Any ideas? -V-

I'm still giggling at that. Invisible special-fx bullets but real plastic gun. You could have someones eye out with that.

I truly believe that without the influence of the chivalrous, the human race is doomed to self destruction. This is by no means a negative view of things. Indeed, I am suggesting that that your view of life and the actions of those that share your view are essential to the survival of the human race. Chivalry dead? I think not. It is the core of true human spirit. -V-

That just about wraps up this thread I think. The need for 'defence' is typically very sudden indeed, most commonly a suprise attack at VERY close range [typically within 18inches]. A guns not going to be a much use I'm afraid. -V-

I don't see why not. As you can see - that's my typical Thursday. -V-

Certainly the best advice so far. -V-

Yep. It's for real. ALL of our belt tests require full contact fighting (starting with just two fights for 10. Kyu). Our black belt grading is FAR more demanding.... -V-

Thanks for the clarification. -V-

Just out of interest, how would you define a 'successful' school? -V-

Hi mate, It depends on how one would describe 'inefficient'. Chambering is a good practise if what you are looking for is speed. It's also the only real way to control a roundhouse kick (Mawashigeri) when kicking into thin air. Think of it this way: Chambering has the effect of a 'slap'. That is, if you chamber the kick before striking your opponent with your foot, you will 'signal' him/her that a roundhouse is in the post. That said, the speed of such a kick is high and the resulting kick is more of a 'slap' with the foot than a kick. Without chambering, it's a lot harder to 'target' your opponent. But, with practise, it is far more devastating. There is a lot more 'follow through' when the chamber is minimal (bordering on non-existant) and one is forced to generate power and speed using the hips. Where the kick is chambered, one tends to 'flick' the kick (seriously reducing the 'added value' of the hips). So, if you want to give your opponent a 'slap'. Go ahead, chamber away. If you want to knock him out - deliver the strike with the shin bone or ball of the foot and follow through with full hip rotation (which is seriously difficult where the kick is pre-chambered). Chambered kicks 'look good', make beginner throw fast (and semi-useless) 'slaps' very quickly. But, their efficiency is next to zero. I would typically only use a 'foot slap' as a distraction for a full on fist-to-jaw assault. However, bear in mind - if one were to chamber prior to striking (as though preparing to make a front kick 'Maegeri') and then 'switch' the strike to a full out round-house, it can be a deceptive and effective little blighter of a kick. The best move (in my opinion) is: "play with it". If you find it effective - great. If not, dump it and move on. A chambered kick is definately easier to learn and brings fast results against lower-level opponents. But, it's only likely to 'irritate' more 'serious minded' opponents. Hope that helps and remember: this is just my opinion , others may completely disagree (and I'm sure that many will... ). -V-

'Chamber'ing your leg is the act of 'preparing' for the kick. Typically, the kicking leg retracts the heel into close proximity with your butt (preferably bending at the knee otherwise you just might hurt yourself) before being hyper-extended into the 'thrusting' action of the kick. Think of it as 'aiming your knee at the intended target of your foot'. Incidentally, the individual that wrote 'I have to agree that it's better to chamber the front roundhouse' may also write: "I have to agree that before embarking on a secret mission to take out someone's head, it's a great idea to first inform victim of the date, time and exact location of the attack before initiating any agressive actions." Sometimes, I just wonder where people get this stuff.... (of course, this comment is not aimed at you Darx ). -V-

I don't know if it helps but I use a 'weekly rotation'. You can take a look my schedule if you like... http://www.kyokushinbudokai.org/schedule.jpg -V-

I think it would depend on the style of your Karate. To perform 'soft stretching' movement before 'hard/full contact' kumite is definately to be advised against. That said, as an additional excercise with a view to achieving improved flexibility - it's perfect. One tip (trust me - it will steer you clear of many injuries: Do NOT peform Yoga within 12 hours of a tough training session. Yoga is all about 'loosening' things up. Loosen up your back or hamstrings (for example) before sparing and you will earn yourself a slipped disk or a pulled/torn hamstring. Remember: there is a difference between stretching to prepare your muscles/tissue for vigorous exercise and 'loosening' up for all round flexibility. Yoga is about 'relax into stretch'. This is to be very much avoided before vigorous exercise. -V- [[edited spelling only: 'Yogo' just didn't look right! ]]

I'm a full time teacher/instructor. I teach Customer Relationship Management to Blue Chip Companies in Germany (adult education). -V-

My standard response to this incredibly annoying question is: a) fix my eyes on theirs - no blinking allowed. b) smirk a little. c) Answer with: "I'd just smack my fist into your jaw bone." (Pause) "Hard." There's something about using the words 'jaw bone' instead of simply saying 'jaw' or 'mouth'. It comes accross a little more... ...clinical. My old psychology instructor used to tell me that I had a habit of over complicating things. He suggested that I learned to 'Keep it Short and Simple'. I guess I've finally cracked it. I think he'd be proud. -V-

There are two perspectives from which you can view 'Osu!'. There is the spirit of 'Osu!' and the word 'Osu!' as it is used in the Dojo. Let's take a look at the word 'Osu!' as it is used in the Dojo first: There is a sign on the wall in our Dojo that reads something like this... "Osu! means... Yes!, No!, I see!, Thank You!, Ok!, Oh No!, I'm ready!, I'm not ready but I'll do it anyway!, Hello!, Goodbye!, Good Morning!, Good Evening!, Good Afternoon!, That hurt! But, thanks for showing me!, I salute you! etc. etc." In other words, it's a mark of respect and is a means of 'acknowledgement'. Next there is the 'spirit' of Osu!: Here's the definition as listed on https://www.masutatsuoyama.com . This should sum it up nicely... "Osu means patience, respect and appreciation. In order to develop a strong body and strong spirit it is necessary to undergo rigorous training. This is very demanding, because you must push yourself to what you believe to be your limit, and you want to stop; to give up. When you reach this point you must fight yourself and your weakness and you must win. To do this you must learn to persevere, but above all you must learn to be patient. This is OSU! The reason you subject yourself to hard training is because you care about yourself, and to care about yourself is to respect yourself. This self respect evolves and expands to become respect for your instructor and fellow students. When you enter the dojo you bow and say "Osu" . This means you respect your dojo and the time you spend training there. This feeling of respect is OSU! During training you push yourself as hard as possible because you respect yourself. When you finish you bow to your insructor and fellow students and say "Osu" once more. You do this out of appreciation. This feeling of appreciation is OSU. Thus OSU is a very important word in Kyokushin Karate because it signifies patience, respect and appreciation. That is why we always use the word OSU; to remind ourselves of these indespensable qualities. OSU!!!" I hope that helped. -V-

There is, of course, the possibility that you are looking at a McDojo. However, there is also the possibility that your friend has a 'natural' ability and intense discipline (combined with highly frequent training). The time it takes to achieve a grade is a guidline only. It is the responsibility of the instructor to decided whether a person is 'inline', 'in advance' or 'behind' that line. To be honest though, it's not the duration that matters. The questions is: "what did he have to do to get that belt?" For example to achieve a brown belt (2 steps from black in order to make a fair comparison) in Kyokushin Budo Kai, the candidate must demonstrate: Pre-Grading: That he/she is highly proficient in Kihon of all grades up to and including the target rank. That he/she has been able to consistantly demonstrate the use of these techniques in Full Contact Kumite (including strikes to the head). Grading: All Kata up to and including the target grade (in this case 2. Kyu - two steps to Black). 15x 2 minutes of Full Contact All Round Fighting (no protection, no breaks between rounds, new opponent each round). 5x 2 minutes of Ground/Grappling (no breaks, new opponent each round). Fitness Test: 20 pushups on fingers, 50 pushups on knuckles, 100 situps Anything else the grading instructors sees fit to ask for on the day. If someone is able to participate in this grading and hold a good account of themselves (that is, to win 80% of the fights), then typically the grading is a success. My point is this: If someone is able to do this grading after a short time, then so be it. To be honest, I have more concern for people that get a grade 'just because they've been training for a long time' but have done nothing to 'earn' the grade (other than show up at class). In this system, it is expected that it would take around 8-10 years to achieve a Shodan (1st Dan Black). However, one member of our Dojo achieved it in just 5 years. Of course, we also call him 'Die Kampfmachine' (The Fighting Machine) and believe me - this is no McDojo. He received his grade from the only 10. Dan in Karate outside of Japan (Jon Bluming). You wouldn't want to know what was involved in getting that Shodan. It also looks like another member of our Dojo is set to get the grade after just 18 months (he is scheduled to grade in December this year). But, again - the man is a fighter and to get the grade he will have to fight for it (literally). Indeed, people from our Dojo are proving to be successful quickly precisely because we are absolutely NOT a McDojo. Consider that we have a 95% drop-out rate and an average class size of just 12 people. However, to the outsider... ...one might be forgiven for thinking: "Black belt in full contact Karate and Judo after just 18 months... sounds dodgy to me..." I guess it boils down to this: For me, the value of my grade is a personal thing. I know what I had to do to get it. I know what I have to do to KEEP it. If a mate buys his grade from Burger King, let him get fat on it. But, don't assume that a grade is meaningless simply because of a short time taken to achieve it... To be honest, I am not interested in my 'grade' or the grade of anyone else for that matter. The only thing that matters to me is: "Where am I in terms of my training. How close am I to where I want to be?" I am the only man on this planet that can answer these questions and neither belt nor rank can answer these questions for me. -V-