tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56672169526427385782024-02-08T05:55:37.810-05:00Kenpo Karate: MA Theory, Practice & PhilosophyA blog about Kenpo Karate and martial arts theory, practice and philosophy.Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.comBlogger64125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-76747070166608047642012-04-06T16:37:00.002-04:002012-04-06T19:30:12.606-04:00MMA Training: Eric Wong's 3 Principles<div class="module moduleText color0" id="mod_18482424">
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MMA training is intense. Competitors need to know striking, grappling and, also, it doesn't hurt to be able to take a
punch in the face (or does it?). What you may be curious to learn is the
type of training that these fighters do in order to get ready for a
match.<br />
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Yes, of course they practice several martial arts in order to compete
with their opponents. Most fighters experience boxing, wrestling,
Brazilian jiu-jitsu, muay thai, kick boxing, taekwondo, karate and judo.
But they also train with programs to increase their fighting prowess
and agility. Eric Wong has trained several fighters with his program that relies on three principles. Two of them are specificity and periodization.<br />
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Specificity is training the body in a very specific way. for example, the best way to train your fists is by punching, no weights or
resistance.<br />
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Resistance only hurts competitors. Yes it builds muscle, but resistance is not important when training. With resistance, the arms becomes accustomed to
the resistance to bring it back to chamber instead of bringing it back himself. It creates dependence on the resistance to bring the fist back to chamber. He waits for the resistance but it doesn't come, costing competitors agility and timing in an important match.<br />
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Periodization is training cycles. An athlete will dedicate
a certain amount of time, typically two months, in a certain area of training. This keeps the muscles from getting too
complacent and also helps athletes from plateauing too quickly.<br />
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These cycles are not about martial arts training, the cycles are about other training methods, including weight training, muscle
growth, flexibility and endurance.<br />
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These are two techniques offered in Eric Wong's program, Ultimate MMA Strength and Conditioning Program. Eric has many methods to train competitors of any level to get into good shape or <b>AWESOME</b> shape to kick some ass in the Octagon. <a href="http://f013fdpll6ilwbd55ksergorcu.hop.clickbank.net/?tid=MMAWORKOUT" target="_top">Click Here</a> to learn more about these training methods and the third principle that Eric created to get his fighters to the final rounds!Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-31308781230067591752012-03-29T16:58:00.002-04:002012-03-29T17:00:38.372-04:00The Martial Arts Gi<br />
Did you know that the first martial arts uniform was the judo uniform? Kano Jigoro, the creator of judo, created the gi in 1907. The gi was designed with long, billowy sleeves for movement, as well as long, billowy pants.<br />
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Funakoshi mimicked the Jigoro design, only he used a lighter fabric than the heavy judo gis. Thus the uniform of martial arts was born!<br />
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As you've noticed most gis look the same. The design is similar; what changes is typically reflective of the school. Kenpo students will typically wear a black gi.<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=kenkarmathepr-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B000UGWYIK&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><br />
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This gi is of kenpo style made by Piranha Gear. It's a heavy weight karate gi, made of 100% cotton canvas dyed black. Tournament length sleeves. Make sure to check your size; these run a little big, so you may want to go a size below.<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=kenkarmathepr-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B0018KAJPM&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>
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This is your standard karate gi, also heavy weight made by Piranha Gear. 100% cotton canvas with tournament length sleeves.<br />
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These are both gis for the professional/serious martial artist. Beginners will want to stick to the uniforms that their masters sell. Though those gis are good, these are heavy duty awesome gis. These are ridiculously durable as well as breathable. A uniform that is comfortable and practical for the instructor or tournament junkie.<br />
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Follow the links for customer reviews.Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-13022424540750542382012-03-27T15:45:00.000-04:002012-03-27T15:45:43.152-04:00BullyingI've been reading a lot of posts lately on the issue of bullying and I think that there are still too few. What I mean by this is that though it may seem like a simple issue, it really isn't. Kids are killing themselves because of the torment that they receive in school.<br />
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I used to think that I was bullied when I was in school, but I've never been pushed to the point of hurting someone or taking my life. So I can't say for sure what is going on in these schools, but I will say that it isn't the school's fault.<br />
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I feel that often parents don't spend enough time with their kids. They don't share with them lessons of kindness or generosity. But this isn't always the problem. Parents are busy; both of my parents had to work to provide for a family and times now are even harder. 3 or 4 jobs split between two people is hard. These times are hard on all of us. No it really isn't the parent's fault, not entirely.<br />
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Somewhere the child was never taught respect. They never understood the concept of restraint or empathy, so they understood when they were hurting someone. Or maybe the fact is that we are just cruel on the inside.<br />
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I honestly don't know what to say here. I don't understand why some kids bully and others get bullied. I felt like I had to say something. And if you want to join the cause to stop bullying, try these places:<br />
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<a href="http://www.standtogether.tv/">http://www.standtogether.tv/</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.dig4kids.org/bully-prevention/">http://www.dig4kids.org/bully-prevention/</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.parentfurther.com/high-risk-behaviors/bullying">http://www.parentfurther.com/high-risk-behaviors/bullying</a><br />
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I personally believe that it starts at home, teaching our children that picking on others, singling them out and joining others in harassing them is wrong. Teasing is OK; teasing is a sign of love, but there is line that is crossed when it comes to bullying. Bullying is cruel and malicious. It has no love, only animosity.Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-28287101339405635162012-03-15T15:42:00.000-04:002012-03-15T15:42:09.182-04:00Kenpo Karate: HumilityI actually posted this on my hub account, so go check it out <a href="http://marshallartest.hubpages.com/hub/Humility-and-Defending-Yourself">here</a>. Other than that, I will be gone this weekend so there will be no postings.<br />
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: (<br />
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I know you are sad, but hey here's a video of a goofy TV show from the 90's! It's relevant! It's relevant!<br />
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Have a good weekend! : )<br />
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Oh power rangers!Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-30404567253237522462012-03-14T16:26:00.000-04:002012-03-14T16:26:05.862-04:00Kenpo Karate: DriveTo defend yourself, you need drive. You can't just hope that you will be able to pull this shit right out of your ass, you need to be motivated to learn all you can to do it.<br />
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Drive (not sure why I'm explaining this; if you don't know, you live in outer space) is the passion to go without stopping until you are satisfied. Drive is what makes us human. Have you ever seen a person without drive? They are uncomfortable furniture. They lay around and aren't even useful to sit in.<br />
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Kenpo karate teaches student to strive for more. As with any martial art, kenpo karate challenges students with breaking and memorizing techniques. As time progresses, the techniques become second nature and with enough experience they will be able to defend themselves with ease. It takes drive to defend oneself, no doubt about it.Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-59714188074189190262012-03-12T17:59:00.000-04:002012-03-12T17:59:48.267-04:00Kenpo Karate: Guts!So before I proceed, I wanted to add this video that brings back fond memories of old-school nickelodeon...<br />
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Mush like the TV show of the same name, a martial artist needs guts in order to defend himself. What are guts? You know beside the organs that allow your body to function properly? (Yes, I had to). Guts are a little bit of confidence as well as what makes strong leaders. Having guts can sometimes mark weather you win or lose.<br />
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Have you ever heard the term "gut feeling"? Where you have an inkling and act upon it? Well that is half of what guts is. Being able to discern a right move. This is how <a href="http://kempokaratematpp.blogspot.com/2012/03/mushin-no-shin.html">mushin no shin</a>, a state I wrote about in a previous post, begins.<br />
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Gut feelings become more and more prevalent as an artist gains more experience and as they age, they will be able to enter the mushin no shin state.
The other part of guts is a little less complex, and that is the courage to act on those gut feelings.<br />
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Often we rely too much on our analytical minds to decipher everything around us. We easily dismiss anything that can't be measured by a yard stick, so gut feelings have little to know baring.
However, aside from the mind and the body, a human being also has a soul and the soul is also capable of sensing, we are just not tuned into it.<br />
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It is these <b>radical</b> ideas that sound so silly when spoken aloud (or written in a blog). So that's the reason why many choose not to listen to their gut; it is not the eyes, nor the ears, nor hands, tongue or nose and therefore it is uttery erroneous.<br />
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Sarcasm... sarcasm... I have experienced these myself and I can appreciate the need for further study before you take me seriously. However that is what guts are to me.<br />
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In the matter of defending yourself, it is hard to listen to this feeling all the time. You'll want to ignore it at first and when you do, things won't typically work out that well. When you do listen, often times they work out fine. Not always but usually.Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-36466657837684681682012-03-09T18:04:00.001-05:002012-03-09T18:04:30.276-05:00Kenpo Karate: LeadershipLeadership is a crucial skill in the world today. Without it, it can be extremely hard to succeed in business or in just about anything. Leaders lead the way into the future. They do not just follow the path that of those before them, they are constantly learning and creating new things.<br />
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They are also great examples and inspire their friends, family, subordinates with their charisma and their take charge attitude. It may seem hard to believe, but kenpo teaches students this too. Students often are chosen to lead classes and teach new students. This helps them remember and also learn how to articulate what it is they have learned in class.<br />
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Now when it comes to defending yourself, leadership comes from confidence. A leader is born when he/she has the confidence to accept the duties that they have in becoming a leader. As a martial artist, your duty is to defend yourself and others, preferably for a just cause (personally, if it is not a just cause then you are not a martial artist). And in that respect you become the leader that you were taught to be through the training in your dojo.Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-45727404397144452112012-03-08T16:10:00.000-05:002012-03-08T16:10:55.410-05:00Kenpo Karate: ConfidenceWhen it comes to defending yourself, you need to have confidence to do it. It you act meek in a hostile situation it means one of two things: 1, you are misdirecting your opponent to catch them by surprise or (and mostly likely) you are in fact a meek minded person who is easily trampled.<br />
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Can you defend yourself with kenpo karate? Yes! ...That is if you believe that you can.<br />
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Often we compare ourselves to the greats. We watch movies with Jackie Chan and Jet Li and see how amazing they are and we immediately think that we could never perform at that level, beat all the bad guys and win the girl at the end... Well of course you can't if you don't even try!<br />
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I'm not saying that by "believing" you can, you will be able to defeat three assailants at once without any training, I'm saying that with the training that kenpo karate gives you, you can defend yourself.<br />
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First off, those tricky moves in the movies, though they are flashy without proper practice, you could not pull those off. Unless you trained like Jackie and Jet. If you believe you can do them and practice them everyday and some how magically get into such a sticky situation, then yes you could. But you don't need to. What you want is to take out your opponent in one move. Too much energy is wasted on making the stunts they do interesting. Not really practical in a real fight.<br />
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So now you understand that comparing yourself to the greats is dumb, you need to realize the power inside yourself. Training in kenpo karate develops much of the young martial artist. As a student progresses through the ranks, they get stronger, faster, more agile, longer stamina and, of course, more confidence in dealing with a life threatening situation.<br />
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The martial arts, as I've said time and time again, is not so much about building the body as it is about building the mind and spirit. As you progress, you learn timing, your reach and also you find the inner tiger within you that can stand up against anyone.<br />
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Confidence can be attained through other methods as well. However, there is no fast way to do so. It takes a lot of effort on the part of the student. But if you really want it, you can strive to find it within yourself.<br />
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If you have good self-esteem, you typically have good confidence. How you view yourself is key. If you keep comparing yourself to the greats like Chan and Li, you will always be seeking their confidence and not your own. Start with you first!<br />
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<ul>
<li><b>Compliment yourself when you do something well.</b> You don't have to do it out loud; people might stare... But take some pride in the good work you do (will talk more about this later). </li>
<li><b>Maintain a positive attitude.</b> This is the most played out saying in the history of the world... but it's true. No matter what, if you decide you are going to have a good day or believe that you can do anything and take down any opposition the day throws at you, you will have a <b>great</b> day. </li>
<li><b>If you fail, try again.</b> Failure is only a means of finding the way; it is not a end all situation where if you fail life ends. We often forget this. Especially teens... You can't take life too seriously or you won't be able to get over the hurdles that are constantly there. Remember that life isn't hard, it's how you use the gifts you got and kick the world's ass. DON'T LET ANYONE TELL YOU DIFFERENTLY! :)</li>
</ul>
If you're an avid reader (I'm guessing you are if you read this far) there are a lot of books that can give you more tips on building self-esteem and confidence. I'm an avid reader myself and enjoy self-improvement reads (I know not everyone is), but if you want to give these books a try, I've found them pretty useful in terms of confidence building:<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=kenkarmathe07-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B0019V1OAY&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=kenkarmathe07-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=157224495X&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=kenkarmathe07-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0134106717&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><br />
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As somewhat of an introvert, I found these to be pretty helpful for me. So I hope you enjoy them too. Well, thanks for reading and I will continue this series tomorrow. Till then...Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-52288622513020439432012-03-05T15:43:00.001-05:002012-03-05T15:43:20.221-05:00Kenpo Karate: Can I Fight Back?For all beginners of kenpo karate, you may wonder if learning a martial art is helpful or a waste of time. Growing up, I wasn't sure about it myself. In fact I would say that I really didn't become a black belt until I got my 2nd degree.<br />
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I'm not very supportive of belt systems. I understand their function; they represent skill level. However, even if you have the knowledge doesn't mean you know how to use it. This may seem like a weird way to begin a pro martial arts shpeal, but just give me time. : )<br />
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There are some white belts out there that act like black belts and there are some black belts that act like white belts. Unfortunately I have been the latter. My sensei had a word for it: paper tiger. It may look like a tiger, but it is made of paper and is no more fearful than a mouse.<br />
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I was unfortunately a paper tiger for a long time. I was big; i had strength, but as far as being a black belt, I was not. It took a real kick in the pants for me to take training seriously... but that is a story for another time.<br />
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What I will say now is what we in the writing business call a thesis statement... So yeah, kenpo karate or any martial art teaches a student how to defend him/herself. Yes, you can fight back. That is not the proper question. The proper question is <b>will</b> you fight back.<br />
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Like anything else, the amount of time and effort you put into kenpo karate makes all the difference. You can just barely pass your tests and gain that black belt, but if you don't put in the real sweat to go above and beyond, you are not a real black belt. Becoming a real black belt takes guts and drive. You need to be a leader and you need to have confidence in yourself. And humility goes a long way too.<br />
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Those are the main components to make a black belt. Let me rephrase that: those are the components you need to be able to defend yourself. There are plenty of street fighters that can defend themselves and the only black belt they have, they got from wal-mart. What do they have? confidence, leadership, guts...<br />
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They don't have drive, because if they did they wouldn't be thugs. And they don't have humility because they are not eager to learn. That is the difference between being a black belt and being a street fighter.<br />
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I'm going to end this for now, because I have some good ideas for future posts from this one. Check back for updates, but let me repeat myself: by learning kenpo karate you can fight back, you can defend yourself and you can win.Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-53319846124560684672012-03-02T15:48:00.000-05:002012-03-02T15:48:03.670-05:00Mushin No ShinMushin no shin, something that I like to call the <a href="http://kempokaratematpp.blogspot.com/2012/01/void-mindset-higher-consciousness.html">Void Mindset</a>, is the state of mind that comes when you are not thinking at all. The Japanese call mushin no shin or mind without mind. The Koreans call it moo sim or empty mind, but they mean exactly what I was talking about in the earlier post.<br />
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Mushin no shin is hard to understand since we are all familiar with the “I think therefore I am” phrase, but it is in fact a state where the unconscious mind is at work. <br />
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In order to achieve mushin no shin, one must be free of all thought and by this I mean free from emotions and ego.<br />
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Emotions are typically reactions to interactions. These may be good or bad interactions, which will vary in results. For instance if a person angers you, you may find it hard to think about anything other than that person for the rest of the day. This of course also happens during a more positive interaction. <br />
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A list of common emotions that will impede mushin no shin are, but are not limited to:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul>
<li>Fear</li>
<li>Anger</li>
<li>Depression</li>
<li>Joy</li>
<li>Guilt</li>
<li>Pleasure</li>
<li>Happiness</li>
<li>Amused and so many more.</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
Ego is also affects achieving mushin no shin. Ego is much more complicated because it deals with how you view yourself as well as what actions you should/would take in order to do/get what you want. <br />
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Our conscious thinking is what impedes mushin no shin. The unconscious mind is filled with all the knowledge that the conscious mind has as well as much more. In kenpo karate, mushin no shin would help you defend and attack effortlessly. Your body and mind fully understand the techniques and react accordingly to whatever stimuli applied.<br />
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This state is not just for martial arts, it is used in everyday life without you knowing. For me, a common example is driving. I often find myself in that state (not being conscious of it) while I’m on the road. I am a very comfortable driver and so I don’t need full consciousness (that sounds reckless).<br />
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Mushin no shin comes with years and years of practice in one area. When you are comfortable and enjoy what it is you are doing, you may find yourself slipping into mushin no shin. This is a good thing, because you will often accomplish things you didn’t think possible.<br />
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Now I’m not saying that you totally slip out of consciousness. It is just that you are not aware of consciousness at all. There is no you; there is only the action and usually success.Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-36239081290368925792012-02-29T16:52:00.002-05:002012-02-29T16:52:35.173-05:00Kenpo Karate: Be the LionThere's a movie that I like called Poolhall Junkies. It wasn't a great movie or anything many would remember, but Christopher Walken had a great line in it near the end, and I think it applies to kenpo karate.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>You watch those nature documentaries on the cable? You see the one about
lions? You got this lion. He's the king of the jungle, huge mane out to
here. He's laying under a tree, in the middle of Africa. He's so big,
it's so hot. He doesn't want to move. Now the little lions come, they
start messing with him. Biting his tail, biting his ears. He doesn't do
anything. The lioness, she starts messing with him. Coming over, making
trouble. Still nothing. Now the other animals, they notice this. They
start to move in. The jackals; hyenas. They're barking at him, laughing
at him. They nip his toes, and eat the food that's in his domain. They
do this, then they get closer and closer, bolder and bolder. Till one
day, that lion gets up and tears the shit out of everybody. Runs like
the wind, eats everything in his path. Cause every once in a while, the
lion has to show the jackals, who he is.
</i></blockquote>
I say this because as a lion, a kenpo karate student must be able to stand up for themselves. There comes a time (usually for young students) when they may be bullied or picked on by someone looking to prove themselves. The martial artist must not back down.<br />
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However, it is also the martial artist's job to pick their battles. There is not reason to fight a person for fighting's sake. Also, to fight someone over words is not the best time to fight either. Only fight when you absolutely have to and not to show off or be a bully. A true martial artist knows that. Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-55238478388390681712012-02-28T15:24:00.000-05:002012-02-28T15:24:40.178-05:00Kenpo Karate: Gun DefenseI was watching some of these videos and I thought that I would post them here. All are kenpo karate techniques that defend against guns. Enjoy!<br />
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The first three are from the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/ACCS08">American Center for Chinese Studies</a> and the last is <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/expertvillage">Expert Village</a>.<br />
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<br />Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-32116769644310698952012-02-27T16:15:00.000-05:002012-02-27T16:15:28.471-05:00Kenpo Karate: Grasp of DeathYup it's that time again where I go over a technique in kenpo karate and give you a possible counter if you find yourself in that situation. <br />
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Grasp of Death is a defense against a side headlock. You would be bent over with your head locked in your opponents right arm. To escape, you turn your chin towards the wrist to make sure you can breath. After that, take your left leg and step forward in order to jab your knee into their calf in order to get his knee to buckle.<br />
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After that, with your left hand, either grab he thigh very close to the knee or grab the groin itself. This should make your opponent release your head. Escape and grab his arm, step in front of him to make it harder to retaliate against you and then arm-bar the arm you have a hold of to throw him to the ground.<br />
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After that running or some sort of technique to the head is good.<br />
<br />Now let's say that for some reason you have an opponent in this situation and he proceeds to use this technique on you. There is a chance that you will have your groin grabbed, which is not a happy feeling at all. Odds are that he will at least buckle your knee and that will be your indication that he is performing the Grasp of Death. However, in most cases, your balls will be grabbed simultaneously.<br />
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Focus on the head lock. Keep your arm tight and drop to your knees. He'll have to come down too. Once your on your knees, sit on his hand (if its still there). It will probably hurt, but the sudden shift of you kneeling with him still in the choke hold will more than likely make him need his hand to support himself on the ground.<br />
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If you can sit on it, he will have to submit to the ground. There would not be much he could do.Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-7359139929382495812012-02-25T18:23:00.000-05:002012-03-08T16:19:06.969-05:00Shaolin SoccerSo I watched Shaolin Soccer this weekend, and I figured I'd give a review of it for all you avid readers out there... or something.<br />
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Great movie! I love the style of Stephen Chow and company. I've only seen Shaolin Soccer and Kung Fu Hustle, but both are very fun. Basically Stephen Chow's movies use a lot of the same humor you would find in a cartoon. For instance, slipping on a banana peel. It may sound like an old gag, but it is very entertaining to watch a live rendition of the act.<br />
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And much like any anime series, the practice of kung fu makes every master a super hero. Like Steel Leg (Stephen Chow's character in Shaolin Soccer), who can kick a soccer ball so high into the sky that it could possibly bring down a satellite.<br />
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His movies are also filled with memorable characters. Like the best friend who wants nothing to do with him. Or the accountant who is nothing but numbers and probability. Much like a cartoon, the characters are relatively one dimensional, but that is partially what makes his movies so entertaining.<br />
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There is character development, don't misunderstand. The story focuses on a washed up soccer star who wants to show up his old rival and create his own, all-star soccer team and also Stephen Chow's character who has been trying to spread the way of kung fu to everyone in China.<br />
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Good movie! So check it out! And that's it for me. Sooooo... Talk atcha later!<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=kenkarmathe07-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B000286RNY&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-68812706932865217512012-02-24T17:29:00.001-05:002012-02-24T17:52:53.977-05:00Kenpo Karate: Calm and BalanceIt may surprise many to know that kenpo karate isn't about punching and kicking. Though the art of kenpo karate did arise from a need to defend one's self, it has become something much more than that. Kenpo karate can also be described as a way to find balance and calm.<br />
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Like yoga, kenpo is about movement and focusing your movement. Though it isn't bending and stretching, kenpo karate stretches the mind to think in new ways instead of the old.<br />
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For many, maintaining a cool mind can be very hard. Often we would prefer to lash out with our emotions instead of keeping a collect face. Through the study of kenpo karate or any other martial art, one can become as cool as a cucumber without stressing any common instigators.<br />
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Some tips on staying calm:<br />
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<ol>
<li>Before you react, think about what is actually going on. Why is your temper rising? Who or what is making it or is it something deeper?</li>
<li>Take some deep breaths and think about something else. Breathing helps the body relieve stress and taking your mind off the stresser can cool your head. I recommend something funny.</li>
<li>Try to understand the point of view of the stresser. Why are they acting this way and what can I do to help.</li>
</ol>
If they are just trolling or are a hateful, angry person, there is very little you can do, so just move on.<br />
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Balance is keeping your mind, body and soul positive. Being positive is better than being negative because it creates a more enjoyable atmosphere for everyone. Being negative is an easier path, and often feels good for a while, but in the long run it only makes you unhappy. By maintaining a positive balance, you can enjoy a better life.<br />
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Staying in balance is much like staying calm. Think positive; I know it sounds lame, but if you picture the positives as well as what you want to do in life, you will stay more focused on achieving those goals and create a happier you than before.Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-45894540123451461082012-02-23T15:24:00.002-05:002012-02-23T15:28:04.230-05:00Kenpo Karate: The Universal Kempo Karate Association<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Some history of the Universal Kempo Karate Association and some basics performed by the black belts of tomorrow.Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-91336688285855183112012-02-22T16:40:00.000-05:002012-02-22T18:58:08.362-05:00Kenpo Karate: Captured TwigsCaptured Twigs is a kenpo karate defensive technique used to defend against a bear hug from behind. The attacker attacks from behind, bear hugging the defender and capturing his arms in the bear hug. The defender pins the attacker's hands in place by grabbing with his left hand.<br />
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Then the defender steps to 9 o'clock with his left leg and squats into a horse stance, bringing with him the attacker, who now has to bend to keep the bear hug in place. As you step into the horse stance, your right hand should be in a hammer fist and striking the attacker in the groin. This will obviously stun the attacker.<br />
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This stunning technique should make the attacker loose his grip on the bear hug. At this point the defender lets go and gets the attacker's right hand away with a palm block. Also in this instant the defender will step his right foot into the 5 o'clock position.<br />
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Next the defender strikes with an elbow strike to the attacker's chin. After that right hand checks the attacker's right arm while the left hand guards the face and the right leg goes to a cat stance. And finally the defenders does a right snapping knife-edge kick to the inside of the right knee. That is Captured Twigs.<br />
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Now if yo have to defend against this, the prime objective you have is to guard your nuts. You may take several shots to the balls if you are not careful and make sure your opponent is completely in front of you the whole time. When your opponent steps into the horse stance, quickly move behind him to avoid the groin shot.<br />
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At this point you will be bent over. Depending on your relationship with ground fighting, you may want to knock out his knees and pin him to the ground. If not, you may be able to strike him in the balls from behind.Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-78649409326263914302012-02-21T15:38:00.000-05:002012-02-22T18:57:52.164-05:00Kenpo Karate: Getting RestSo, I'm sick, and yet here I am writing another article. It wouldn't be an issue really to take a day off, but I promised to make an entry every day, so here I go.<br />
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Being sick sucks. I just came down with a cold and I'm feeling sooooooooooooooooooo tired. I tried to take a nap, but that didn't seem to work, because I was worried about you guys in cyber space. :)<br />
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But as one martial artist to another, in order to be at your best, you need to rest (that rhymed! yay me!)<br />
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Though you may feel that you need to practice every day and also that you can put a little more effort to increase your skill level, there is nothing wrong with taking a day off. <br />
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Sometimes we press ourselves too hard trying to accomplish much in a short amount of time. But all that does is make us hate whatever it is we're doing. You can't follow the Way if you hate it. It will become a burden that will eventually be too hard to carry. <br />
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So some tips to keep up your strength:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ol>
<li>Drink plenty of fluids</li>
<li>Eat plenty of protein and vegetables</li>
<li>When your body, mind or soul is tired, rest and let it rest until it is ready for more training.</li>
</ol>
</blockquote>
Thanks; it's nap time.Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-11225905373159171582012-02-20T16:14:00.000-05:002012-02-22T18:57:36.271-05:00Kenpo Karate: Short 1 KataStep right into a horse stance with hands in chamber position.<br />
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This kata demonstrates the four basic blocks, done twice, while moving your horsestance around.To further illustrate, each the kata is like this:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
- Block two punches from the north with inward blocks. Turn your head and see the attack from your left and yell, "kiaa" </blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
- Block two punches from the west (left) with outward blocks. Turn your head and see the attack from over your left shoulder and yell, "kiaa" </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
- Block two punches from the east (behind you) with upwards blocks. Then you turn your head and see the attack from the right and yell, "kiaa"<br />
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- Block two kicks from the south (your right) with your downwards blocks. Turn your head and see the finish, "kiaa"<br />
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- Return to start position and bow out.</blockquote>
</blockquote>
Please refer to the video for further instruction:<br />
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That should give you a demonstration of how to do the form. Please check out more videos from <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/shodanx">Shodanx</a>Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-37008310496223598312012-02-17T17:48:00.000-05:002012-02-22T18:59:20.967-05:00Kenpo Karate: 5 IntangiblesWith all the hype that mixed martial arts brings to the martial arts community, many individuals are led to believe that kenpo karate is just another sports. The truth is that often schools forget what the core of the kenpo karate training is.<br />
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A dojo is not a gym. It is not a place where kenpo students can get a vigorous workout and just mark another tally off their to do list (though that can sometimes happen). The dojo is a classroom where students learn more than just how to defend themselves.<br />
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There are five lessons that a kenpo student learns when immersed in a martial art: discipline, perseverance, integrity, courtesy and intelligence.<br />
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Discipline sounds like a naughty word. The world equates it to a punishment, but the truth about discipline is that it is a way to learn control. The kenpo student disciplines their mind to focus on the task at hand. They discipline their bodies through practice and the their minds through study and asking questions. Discipline also teaches a student to quiet their minds, bodies and souls to achieve a sort of internal understanding which develops as the student progresses.<br />
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Perseverance is a very important lesson. No one should believe that the obstacle is too big to defeat. They should realize that there is always a way to solve every problem and a different perspective for each lesson. It is through perseverance that a kenpo student grows and blooms into a martial artist. <br />
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Integrity is a word that had more weight than a fist or foot. With integrity a kenpo student earns respect from their peers as well as those above them. It also keeps those more aggressive from striking out at one out of respect. <br />
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Courtesy is a great way to treat everyone. Be kind, gentle, thoughtful and respectful. It is an art that is often discarded as weak, but in reality it is a hard path that only those with true discipline can travel.<br />
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Intelligence is something that a kenpo student gains through constant practice and study. Some students are gifted with vast intelligence while others struggle to understand the more complex matters of life. True intelligence is earned through study and a student who does not study is not a martial artist.<br />
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Though kenpo karate is written off as a sport, it is much more than that and to believe that it is just another way to shed some pounds is ignorant. Now most sports strive to teach these intangibles, which they should, but often they are not as easily absorbed as with martial arts. The difference here is that through kenpo karate study a student focuses on the internal and not so much on the scoreboard.Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-28337979602115917232012-02-16T16:19:00.000-05:002012-02-22T18:57:04.617-05:00Kenpo Karate: Deflecting HammerDeflecting Hammer is technique number four in the list of techniques learned for American Kenpo Karate yellow belt test.<br />
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Deflecting Hammer is a kenpo karate technique that defends against a right front kick. The defender shuffles back diagonally, just enough to avoid the kick while also deflecting it with a right downward hammer. This keeps the attacker's momentum going forward, leading him to a possible right hand punch. The defender then left hand blocks the elbow and right elbow strike to the neck or face.<br />
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In this instance, it is hard to determine a proper counter. If you were in the position of using a front kick defend yourself against a kenpo karate attacker, they would use your forward momentum against you and use it for their ultimate elbow strike.<br />
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One defense comes to mind: instead of following up with a punch, plant your foot after the hammer deflection; you'll know what is coming anyway since you know this defense as well. Plant your right foot and immediately turn and do backside kick. This keeps your momentum going forward and will be a little surprise to your attacker who may not be ready for this type of follow up.<br />
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You may even try a turn and left outer swordstrike to the neck.<br />
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As always, give me you feed back below.Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-3765272135885285922012-02-15T17:00:00.000-05:002012-02-22T18:56:47.171-05:00Kenpo Karate: Swords of DestructionBy now you've figured out that I am going through techniques in the yellow belt test for American Kenpo Karate. Sword of Destruction is very similar to Delayed Sword. In fact they are practically the same technique only in this case you are defending against a left hook punch instead of a right punch.<br />
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Left hook comes at your temple, your left foot steps to the 8:00 position while blocking with your right arm. You counter with a right front kick to the groin and then right swordstrike to the neck. Essentially Delayed Sword from the other side.<br />
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Now for a possible counter to this technique if it should be used against you. Your opponent is stepping inside after blocking your punch. You know he's going for your groin so you have a couple of options:<br />
<ol>
<li>You can use the similar counters from Delayed Sword.</li>
<li>Step your left leg back to 5:00 position and right side kick into the chest followed by a left straight punch or any varying techniques that don't interrupt the flow of the side kick. This counter would also work in Delayed Sword.</li>
</ol>Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-35472266997477257942012-02-14T16:36:00.000-05:002012-02-22T18:56:31.160-05:00Kenpo Karate: Alternating MacesAlternating Maces is another technique in Ed Parker's American Kenpo Karate. Like the previous post, it is required for yellow belt promotion, and I will try my best to come up with a suitable defense against it.<br />
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As I've said, a skilled kenpo karate student is very fast. Delayed Sword and Alternating Maces are two techniques taught at the beginner level, but like I said before, your basics are your bread and butter.<br />
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Alternating Maces is a technique that defends against a two armed push, the kind that may be used in a school fight or possibly a bar. The defender rotates the hips and right inner block and push down on the arms. Just a fluid motion of blocking and pushing down (I hate to use the term blocking here, because it isn't really a block, but it is close enough).<br />
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Because the attacker initiated with a push, chances are that his momentum will keep him going forward. The defender then punches (left handed) the solar plexus to stop the opponent. After this stop, the defender uses a back fist to the temple.<br />
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A couple of things come to mind. 1, as the attacker's arms are pushed downward, the attacker's motion is directed downward and forward. What a I give to those who are defending against another kenpo artist who does the common defense of Alternating Maces is a kamikaze attack: a forward roll.<br />
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Because your arms are going down anyway, direct your hands down to start the roll. More than likely your opponent will not see this coming. As you are rolling, your legs go up. If you can miraculously kick him in the face, kudos to you. However, if he is an amazing artist, he will be able to counter this with a jump back, so you must be able to land on your feet.<br />
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2, You know what is coming next after the pushing down of your arms: a punch. If you are able to redirect your velocity, you can avoid it. Swing your back leg (at the time of conflict) to the side of the other leg in order to go sideways and either inside his body or outside.<br />
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On the inside of the punch, their is a possible counter of your punch to his solar plexus. On the outside, you could punch into the arm pit or you could wrap your arm under his armpit and then around his neck and put him into a full nelson.<br />
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If anyone has any other ideas, comment below. I'd like to know.Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-55945918601823131002012-02-13T17:11:00.000-05:002012-02-22T18:56:12.005-05:00Karate Kenpo: Delayed SwordI want to start a series on kenpo karate techniques and go over possible counters to them. Though a kenpo karate student may know how to do the technique, what would happen if another artist should happen to use it on them? I'd like to disect the technique, and find a counter.<br />
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As most of you know, Delayed Sword is a technique from Ed Parker's American Kenpo Karate school required for a student to recieve their yellow belt. Though yellow is still a beginning belt, your earliest techniques are almost always a martial artist bread and butter. To begin, I'll describe the technique.<br />
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Delayed Sword is a technique that counters a right hand punch or grab. Regardless of initial technique, the technique counters the right hand of the opponent.<br />
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The attacker punches with the right hand. The defender blocks with a right inward block, knocking the punch away and then follows with a right outward downward diagonal handsword strike to the attacker's neck.<br />
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After that strike, the defender uses a right front scoop kick to the groin to finish off the technique, then planting the right foot into a left neutral bow stance.<br />
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Now because you know the technique, you should be able to defend against it, right? Well with all kenpo karate techniques, speed is invaluable. Your opponent will be quick if they are as used to the technique as you should be. However, I believe that if you are just as quick, you can catch your opponent unaware.<br />
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So you punch and your opponent initiates the Delayed Sword technique. You know what is coming and if your opponent is using this technique, he should be be fast. You have to be faster. <br />
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After he blocks your right hand punch and is about to move in with the sword strike, pivot on your left and step your right leg back. This way you should be facing your opponent's back or side. <br />
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From here, you may be able to do a roundhouse kick to your opponent's chest. However the reach may be too far. I would suggest instead using your left foot and attacking the right knee.<br />
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As you step back, your opponent <i>may</i> be off balance; your neck has moved and isn't as easy to hit correctly. This will confuse the novice kenpo artist, and, as this counter is new, may surprise the seasoned warrior.<br />
<br />
Your opponent <i>may</i> be off balance from the swordstrike, making a knee kick similar to the final ax strike to a falling tree.<br />
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That is my counter. If you would like, please tell me any problems or other variations in the comments below.Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5667216952642738578.post-32976151779616318372012-02-09T17:38:00.000-05:002012-02-22T18:55:47.387-05:00Kenpo Karate: The Yin YangAs a youngen, I didn't understand what the yin yang was. All I knew about it was that is was Asian and that all the cool people wore them. So of course I had to have a medalion too. <br />
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What I heard about it was that it was a representation of opposites. Light and dark, right and wrong, cold and hot, stuff like that. But now I come to realize that though yin yang does symbolize opposites, it doesn't entail absolute opposite.<br />
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Yin yang is a symbol representing complementary opposites, meaning that neither is absolute but both exist in a system, differing in approaches...<br />
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Really it is really hard to describe. The best way to describe it is in terms of kenpo karate artists. One kenpo karate artist may view kenpo karate as an art-form, purely seeking knowledge and learning. The other seeks strength and learns as a means to defeat his opponents by fighting and gaining experience. <br />
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As it relates to the way of strategy, both systems reach for knowledge but in differing ways. By study, a kenpo artist will find many ideas in the Way. By fighting, a kenpo artist gains experience that allows them to go farther. <br />
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Fighting is the best way because experience teaches better than a book. However, in practicing the movements, an artist at least will gain the musculature to perform when needed. But by far real experience is the best teacher.Marshall Artesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11623275976863267656noreply@blogger.com0