bushido_man96

If you turn that walk to the gym/work into a jog, then it will boost your fitness levels even more.

If the only difference is in name only, then what harm would it do to just give a legitimate black belt rank?

Welcome to KF. I do think that if you get started in your style, it may help to facilitate your desire to quit smoking. When you see how much better you will be able to perform when you quit smoking, it may be the motivation that you need to keep away from it. Good luck in both of your endeavors.

Its funny you mention that, as Isshin and I were discussing that very topic the other night over an IM chat. They tend to be very competition driven.

Be careful not to err too far on the side of caution. Opposite of complacency is insecurity, which could be equally dangerous. While complacency may lead to brash action, insecurity in your training may restrain your actions. Delivering good technique without authority and power is no better than performing poorly with confidence. That is why my previous post stressed a realistic and accurate assessment of your capabilities. Of course, I realize that this isn't what you meant, but your post made for a nice segue! You are right on the money there, and I wouldn't say that you are far off on your assessment, either. I do at times question myself to those dangerous levels of insecurity that you mention. Thanks for bringing this up.

If you really want to get into Zen Buddhism, then you should look towards a temple or whatnot that focuses on it, as opposed to a Martial Art that adheres to a few of the principles of it.

Tallgeese hit on what I have been trying to say. Just because we haven't seen it yet, doesn't mean that its not an effective way of training. As time goes by, I do think that we will see this happen more. Now, that isn't to say that figters still won't have their preferences. That will always be the case. But I think you will begin to see things done more as a compilation.

You might look into getting with some high school or college Westlers in your area to work on some ground fighting skills. That way, you won't be totally foreign to grappling.

I have trouble realistically imagining that a five year old can truly understand what it means to be a black belt. Some systems, mine included, have a rank called "junior black belt," that youngsters can be promoted to, then when they are of a more reasonable age, then can receive their actual black belt rank. What are the differences between the actual rank, and the junior rank?

What is important here is that you both learn from this situation. After a cooling off period, you should both sit down and discuss the event, and learn from it. Another important aspect of this situation is that both of you take identify and take responsibility for your actions. This is just as important in the healing and learning process.

Welcome to KF, Bryan.

I think its all set now.

Wow. Uncalled for.

I pity the fool who don't like breakfast!!!

Don't forget that Funakoshi was born and raised in Okinawa, as well. It is natural that he would take those ethics with him in his Karate. Good points on Kyan, as well.

These are good examples, but it doesn't mean that someone who is well rounded won't come along and dominate. Machida does hold rank in BJJ as well, doesn't he? Just because he doesn't use it as much, doesn't mean that he isn't good at it. He just doesn't have to.

I never knew that, Rateh. Thanks.

Interesting form. Thanks for sharing it.

I agree, Heidi and Bob. Very much the case when it comes to a test.

Way to go, Joe!

Congrats!

Yeah, but still cool.

I have seen Savate, too. Not bad at all.

11-6-09 Little jog. Bench dips: 15, 15, 10 with my 4 year old sitting on me. Knee-ins: 30, 20 11-8-09 Intermitten jogging. Knuckle push-ups: 15, 10. These didn't bother my bicep like regular push-ups and bench press do.

You can work with the ankle weights, just do it carefully. Kick at a moderate speed. Also, get in the gym and do some leg weight lifting. That will help, too.