bushido_man96

Nice, very nice. Thanks for sharing that Joe! This is very nice, but I think it is important to note that it all comes from training.

Those are interesting points, JusticeZero. But I would argue that it sounds more like self-preservation, which is the end result of self-defense. Flight is one way to achieve it, and fight is the other.

Very nice, spending time on other things like theory. I'm sure it was enjoyable for students, as well.

I like Tony's breakdown of the two. I would tend to agree that a thrust is a classification of strike, but when I evaluate the names of some of the techniques that I do, I wonder... For example, back fist strike, knife hand strike, ridge hand strike. And on the other hand, spear hand thrust, front and side thrust kicks, etc. It would appear that most strikes tend to travel in an arc, and most thursts travel in a straight line. But, then we have exceptions, like the palm heel strike...

In the schools that I have trained in, this hasn't been tolerated, and if the behavior is seen, it is dealt with. I think it is important to have the talk first. If it doesn't sink in, then like Tony mentioned, sometimes they get dealt with on the floor. Sparring rules may get chucked out the window, and before you know it, you can have several students who are out of control. So, I think it best to try to talk it over with the one responsible, and find out what it is that they see on their end.

I'm glad that you enjoyed them both, Joe. I like to reference that sight quite a bit, because the studies are all done by groups or individuals who have trained with the weapons, and have the experience to make logical, well-informed statements on the subject.

Another irony to consider is that the likelyhood that you will be attacked by a skilled knife fighter, or a highly skilled gunman, aren't all that high, either.

That's a tough deal, BB of C. I don't know why it runs like that, but those kinds of thoughts are some of the very reasons that compelled me to write my article on monogamy in the Martial Arts. I'm not sure if it is really only the Korean styles that are that particular, or if other styles are just as guilty.

I've never really been one to try to use the blade of my foot as the striking tool for a side kick. I always use the heel.

You're welcome, Bob.

These titles don't speak about rank, but, these teaching titles speak about knowledge. Which is more important; rank or knowledge? KNOWLEDGE! Teaching titles are MORE than dan grades, imho, and this is enough. I hadn't thought of it that way, but it makes a little more sense. Ideally, though, I would think that rank should denote a level of knowledge, as well. But, I understand the route that you have taken here, as well.

I think it is good that you have identified some of the variances in the two arts that you are studying right now. I find differences in Aikdio and Hapkido as well, and find that there are things I like from one, and not the other. What is important is to take mental notes of what you like and dislike, and when you work on your own, or with partners outside of the traditional class setting, you then take the time to focus on what you like. You can also take this time to work more with the concepts and techniques that you don't like from each style, and use them with some neutral training partners. You may find that will like them, after spending a bit more time getting aclimated to them. It might just take the right scenario to make it pop in there.

I think a throw is more distinctive than a takedown. A takedown, in my mind, would more or less tie up a leg (or both), and be more concerned with driving the body through the legs of the opponent. A throw, in my mind, would be more akin to either hoisting the body off the ground, or removing one or more of the legs from under the body while using the hands on the upper body to force it over a fulcrum, like the knee, a blocked foot, etc. That's just the way I see it, though.

That was a nice study. I wonder if he didn't exhale at all on the second break, though. Also, on the slow motion look of the first break, I didn't see the bottom brick break there, either, but it may have been broken with the final collapse of rubble. But, the numbers don't lie, and missing out on around 500 extra lbs of force would make a difference.

Yes, very true, Bob. But all thoughts and considerations are very much appreciated.

They are good thoughts, too. I think we all tend to get a sideways glance when asked what our hobby is, and then we tell them. It can be hard to explain why to those that haven't expericenced it and don't understand what all goes on.

Welcome to the world of Martial Arts. I'm glad to hear that you've already seen improvement. Enjoy your Martial journey.

That would be nice if it were, Bob, but it just isn't the case anymore. As different styles deversivied, specialization became the name of the game. My case in point is this: styles like TKD, Karate, TSD, and even Boxing, have come to excell in the stand-up game. Judo and Aikido are known for their throws. Wrestling and BJJ are specialized in grappling. Now, this level of specialization isn't all bad, because it has allowed the progression of skills in those specialized areas. Yet they came at the expense of skills in other arears.

Congrats! Well deserved.

Here is another comparison article that I found on the ARMA website: Katana vs. Rapier: Another Fantasy Worth Considering A very objective and well-studied approach to a comparison of these two iconical weapons. There is some good historical information in the article, as well, concerning each style of fighting, and the era that the swords were used.

Thanks. I like Clements's research, and I always learn something.

I found this article rather interesting: Longsword and Katana Considered Lots of interesting points brought to bear here.

Welcome!

Hehe, nice. I remember the Friday the 13th one. Basic, but it got the point across.

Thanks, everyone. No, Joe, not a "princess" per se. But yes, I am proud of her.