Pacificshore

I agree with KickChick that progression and certification serves a purpose in the Martial Arts. Let's face it, if you are an instructor and teach a kids program, parents and kids alike would love to know that they are progressing in their training, especially with the amount of money they pay for their kids to learn a Martial Art. Also parents of potential students do their homework in asking about an instructor(s) certfication. It's almost like making sure your grade school kid has a certified teacher at their primary school. Now whether or not the certified instructor is qualified or not, that can only be determined by observation and experience. So long as you are dedicated to learning everything there is to learn in your particular style of Martial Arts, and progressing by rank is a built in feature, don't lose sight of what it is you really want out of your training!!

I feel that if you wear shoes 90% of the time, then why not train in them. Yes, it is important to have a pair that is designated for the dojo and no where else for all the safety and sanitary purposes. Plus in my opinion, I've seen where someone who is wearing shoes during training has less tendency to pull kicks when doing shield work.

In the absence of my Kempo training, I trained in Shotokan for a couple of years, and found it to be a great art for learning the basics. It was also one of the best arts to learn how to utilize/generate power. I will say that the low stances are a great workout in itself, however for mobility I didn't care much for them. This is not to say that they were ineffective all the time, but I didn't care much for them when we sparred or tried to work on the one-step type of self defense drills. As for weapons, I was fortunate enough to have an instructor that crossed trained in traditional kobudo, so I was able to have exposure to the kobudo arts.

In the absence of my Kempo training, I trained in Shotokan for a couple of years, and found it to be a great art for learning the basics. It was also one of the best arts to learn how to utilize/generate power. I will say that the low stances are a great workout in itself, however for mobility I didn't care much for them. This is not to say that they were ineffective all the time, but I didn't care much for them when we sparred or tried to work on the one-step type of self defense drills. As for weapons, I was fortunate enough to have an instructor that crossed trained in traditional kobudo, so I was able to have exposure to the kobudo arts.

It would have to be a baton for it's versatility and practibility.

It would have to be a baton for it's versatility and practibility.

I think I'd like to train in Hwarang-do or Hapkido

Ad, Perhaps your action was over-the-top and premature. If all the guy did was stare and speak a few unacceptable words to you girl then that's one thing. But if those words were followed up be an unacceptable action, then that's a whole different story. Remember it is not the Martial Artist that initiates the action, only take it to it's conclusion!! However, the ultimate goal in training in the Martial Arts is to avoid confrontation if at all possible. We also know that part of our training is focus, control, etc. In your case it sounds like you let your emotions/pride get the better of you. Unlike the training hall, in the real world, there are many variables that affect how we respond to certain situations. In the training hall, no matter how hard you train or spar one another, there is always that control of oneself that has to be shown. And should it slip momentarily you have your instructor there as a "fail safe". You mentioned that you missed a couple of shots or found your self off-balanced......that is all emotion and lack of focus and control, and why?? Because we are human!! Just remember.....bone on bone contact=ouch

I've been seeing many of these course advertised in many M.A. publications. I've even seen it for sell on EBay...Does anyone on the forum know how such a venture began and how it is able to sustain itself? Back when I started training such a thing was unheard of. Has anyone had any experience with this type of program, and what would the pros/cons be to actual training in a dojo?

In my opinion, when you take the word "combative" or "street self-defense" as is sometimes used, then you are looking at someone who is in search/teaching pure fighting techniques or principles. Something that is quick to the point and easy to recall in a combat situation. Many times there is limited amounts of history/philosophy behind combatives/street self defense courses. As a martial artist constantly practicing your particular style, can you then turn your art into a combative/street self defense mode? I believe you can because it'll be the first thing you recall from all those years of training!!!

Yes, Kick Chick I did mean "Lineage" As I age my spelling tends to elude me!! My apologies if my question seemed too broad or non-specific. But I'm glad to hear that both you and YODA think your respective lineages are an important part of your training!! As it is with me.

Thanks to all for the Welcome!! And for Spinninggumby, from the "Gold Rush" state....where all the "Gold" is no longer so everyone is "Rushing" outta here!!

Howdy, I was wondering....How important is your Martial Arts Linage(sp) to you? Just curious!

I would agree with most everyone in the sense of constant training whether mental or physical. Being humble about your training. Making the right choices/decisions for you personally, and being able to pass on what you were taught to others that have the same desire and interest.

I would agree with most everyone in the sense of constant training whether mental or physical. Being humble about your training. Making the right choices/decisions for you personally, and being able to pass on what you were taught to others that have the same desire and interest.

Better Late than Never!! I use a waxwood bo and the difference I have found is that it is much more flexible than wood, or even rattan. I also find that it is thinner in diameter and tapers down on one end. They are not necessarily nice looking, unless you buy the ones that are cut and shaped to specific lenghts, but with a little work and some burn patterns and stain, you can have an outstanding looking bo!

Just wanted to drop in and say Hello to the forum members. Been studying M.A. for as long as I can remember!!! My primary training is in Kempo. Look forward to participating in the forums!! Take care and have a good day!!!