bushido_man96

That is a good point. I can kick hard when I am cold, as long as it is from knee to waist level. Anything over that, doesn't really work anymore.

I find this very interesting. It makes good sense.

Well, how old are you? I am 28, 29 in January.

You are welcome.

When I teach my students in class, when doing basics and forms, I try to teach them not to bob up and down too much. I feel that it becomes telegraphic and is wasted energy. That is just my feelings, however. Sometimes you can't avoid a little bit of head movement, but I don't think that the legs should straighten between each stance transition. I always say to the students: "You don't walk like this, do you?" and then I do an exaggerated walk where I stand straight up tall on one leg, and then dip low when taking the next step. It usually getst the point across.

Ok, I see. I don't think this is the case. I think it is a difference in teaching philosophy and methodology.

It's not a dumb question, and I actually think that you can benefit from doing what you are doing. It is good to know what you are capable of doing, whether you are cold, warmed up, or pumped with adrenaline. It is not a bad practice, but like anything, you just have to make sure you do it right. I used to be able to kick high and fast right out of the box, with no warm-up. However, times have changed, and I am older, and I find I must warm-up more now than I used to.

It sounds like you got a good deal on the genetic side of things. By the way...what is that thing in your avatar?

I don't know if it has the same foam, or a different foam. However, it does feel different striking the hanging bag than the freestanding bag.

Ok, found one: http://www.penntkd.org/index.php It is a university club, so I don't know what the criteria for membership is. Give it a try, though!

I can't seem to find any. Try googling, and see what you come up with. I tried WTF, and couldn't find a directory. Maybe try AAU or USTU.

here is some TSD discussion regarding So Hu Yun. Best, Is there supposed to be a link??

I've seen a number of discussions where people with backgrounds in physics and kinesiology have disputed the effectiveness of the sine wave to create power. I also find the up and down exaggerated motion to be quite ugly, and when on earth would you find the time to execute sine wave if you happen to be in a real fight?! Hip twist at least is economical and logical. Sine wave. Yuck. I really think General Choi came up with it as a way of differentiating his TKD from others'. I think that most of the people who don't like the sine wave are the ones who have seen it over-exaggerated. The original sine wave, I believe, is more sublte than what some schools are teaching now. As for its effectivness, I feel that it is neither here nor there. Some will swear by it, and some will not.

I agree that the idea of spending so much time on kata can be counter-productive. I like the idea of drilling applications alongside the pracitice of kata.

So are you saying that if your first two classes of a Chinese martial art does not involve and sparring or dynamic drills, you are not in a proper authentic Chinese martial arts class? No, what he is saying is that this is how some people view their first few experiences in the Kung Fu class.

I agree. What I like to do is present the whole technique to the students, and then have them perfrom it. From there, you can see what they need help with, and then you can simplify it so that they can take the baby steps they need to get to it. Some people are more athleticly gifted than others, so some will pick it up faster. No need to hold them back; turn them loose. But for those that need a little extra push, we must take the time to help them out.

Seeing as you are a more advanced student, your instructor is probably giving you the meat and potatoes of the new techniques you learn. However, if you have a question about it, go ahead and ask him. If he says there is more to it, tell him that you feel ready for it, and would prefer it all up front, and that you prefer it this way.

Thanks, all.

Try not to lock out your elbows when doing push-ups.

My knees are terrible. They are hurting right now, and I am sitting down!! I just keep training, because I don't want to stop. I take some joint medicine to try to keep them greased, but it doesn't seem to help much. Not so sure what to say about this one. Sorry! Good luck in your comeback! Welcome to the forums!

At present it's the Taegeuks only....but you never know what changes may be ahead. The reason I ask is because some of the books I have, including the TKD Textbook, from Kukkiwon, has both in it.

Wow, Llamas? That is kind of cool. Have you ever had one spit on you?

Thats 1 3/4" rattan. That ain't breakin' so easy!

I think this is a question much like 'Which style is the best'? It's really, which style is best for me considering body type, age, physical limitations or strengths, availability of schools, etc. Personally, I start kids at 9 earliest, then add a couple of extra novice ranks so it alllows more time for their growth, but still feels like progess. Want to see them be 15 or so before bestowing black belt. My rule of thumb: My black belts should be able to fight off a man (attacker/kidnapper/robber, etc.). It's still shaking out (only started this a couple of years ago), but so far so good. Anyway, that's what works for me. What about bigger teens? Would you award them a black belt earlier? And what about smaller women? Would you not award them? I for instance am 5 foot 2, thats shorter than most 14 year olds, and a lot of 12 year olds.... Those are vey good questions, indeed. There are so many variables out there to deal with.