b] Welcome to the JKD family... I offer a few words of advice to help you on your path to self discovery: #1: Try not to get too involved in the politics that tend to lurk around the art (Original JKD camp Vs. JKD Concepts etc Vs. Functional JKD). It all has merit of some sort. Learn from each school of thought and decide for yourself. #2: If you want to ensure that you are truly learning what is commonly accepted as JKD, always make sure you check the lineage of the instructor. There are alot of instructors out there who throw the word JKD on the end of their list of programs offered and their lineage goes straight back to Barnes and Nobles sports section. A TKD guy who read a few books or attended a seminar is not going to be able to give you what you want. #3: Learn the difference between Self-Preservation Training and Self Perfection Training, as this will greatly enhance your understanding of how to fight and how the various drills that you are training fit into your overall fighting strategy. #4: Don't be afraid to put on a protective gear and try out the techniques full speed and full power against a resisting opponent. This will expedite your self discovery of what techniques work for you and which ones need to be flushed. #5: Keep an open mind and enjoy the journey. -Robert[/b]
