bushido_man96

Yes, I believe that handling a firearm is a skill, and it must be practiced to be good at it.

However, Bruce Lee never competed. He didn't really have any use for competitions.

Striking a punching bag is great for punching. If it was not, the boxers wouldn't spend as much time as they do on them. They will help your power, as long as you work them properly.

Going to watch is a good idea as well. Many times, those that go watch end up wanting to compete.....so, take your uniform with you, just in case.

I like to train from both sides. I have seen people start switching their stances when I switch, so I like to mess with them.

That is a good one! My one-sided training makes me automatically think of kicks and strikes. But as a grappler, I imagine your chokes would get quite a response! Very nice. I should open my mind some more.

Wow, that boy has some issues. I think that instructor does as well. Sounds like the Cobra Kai from the Karate Kid series. I think what you did for your daughter was a good experience, though. Kudos to you and your daughter!

Well, I feel for you. However, like I said, maybe the time off will refresh him. As he matures, his interests may change even more, too. Keep us posted as to what he decides in the future.

Congratulations to the both of you!

That is an interesting scenario you are faced with. I would talk with the instructor about your concerns. He should be at least willing to listen to what you have to say. The fact that he has a teacher's pet like that is kind of disturbing. Does that particular student have any needs that you may not be aware of? Otherwise, it sounds fishy. Talk it over with the instructor. Then go from there. Welcome to the Forums!

Congratulations, Matt!

A regular lighter, the rounded ones, not a zippo, might work well. Just about anything cylindrical will work well. A roll of quarters, or a mini flashlight, would work as well.

Cool, ps1. Thanks for the title; I'll look into it.

I don't know if it will work for you, but can you get some solo training sessions in?

You may have a break in your finger. I would go get it x-rayed, to see for sure. If you continue to practice, you may further injure your hand. And you know how much you use your hands, so keep that in mind. Better to miss 4 weeks now than 6 months later.

It really depends on the rules of the tournament. Every one is a little bit different.

It is interesting that the boy had a comment for her originally. That would have probably fired me up as well. It sounds to me like you have handled the entire situation pretty well. A good learning experience for all involved.

For most black belt ranks, you remain in rank for years. The instructor may have certain knowledge and/or skill requirements that have to be met in each of the dan ranks. So, these levels could indicate basically how much time they have in rank, or what requirements they have met thus far. I would ask him, and find out for sure.

You may just have to step your contact level up more and let him have it back. Other suggestions here are good as well, letting him tire out. Stick your kicks really hard, and try to jar him. See how that goes.

Didn't know about that. I would be interested to see how he fairs.

The family members actually received training from a Judo stylist from Japan, if my memory serves me correctly. Maeda was his name?

You should be able to find some ideas here: http://www.karateforums.com/what-are-some-good-drills-vt30512.html

You may need to back off, and give your body time to adjust by gradually increasing your work loads. That way, your body adapts, and can then improve more.

6-20-07 I had a 20 minute solo workout today. I did 3 sets of 10 pushups, but they were the short pulsing ones. Then, I did 3 sets of jumping side kicks, on a heavy bag, but I stood on one leg, chambered the other, and then hopped and kicked the bag, and landed on the one leg. I did 3 sets of 10 on each side. Then I did 3 sets of 10 pushups, and did 3 sets of 10 front leg front kicks on the bag. From 5:30 - 6:00 I taught Orientation.

It really depends on the school and instructor. Your best bet would be to go ask them some of those questions when you get a chance. Many martial arts styles help to create discipline, among other attributes. Just making yourself go and better yourself will do this as well. Try it out. Good luck to you! And welcome to KF!