Four Important Mindsets of a Martial Artist- - Chief Instructor's Blog December 2019

Martial artists have various mindsets they use to be effective in learning and performing martial arts.  Each of these mindsets are important to learn and practice as a martial artist to maximize your learning and effectiveness.  Four of these mindsets I contend are probably the most important: Shoshin, Fudoshin, Zanshin, and Mushin.

Shoshin

Shoshin refers to a beginner’s mind.  It means coming to every class with an open mind and no preconceptions.  It means being inquisitive and maximizing your learning in every session as if you were a white belt every day.  Sometimes, the higher in rank we are the more we think we know and start to resist learning something new or a new way of thinking about something you thought you already learned and understood.  A lifetime is not long enough to understand all there is to know about a specific martial art. Martial arts is like an onion – it has many layers and while you may be well versed in one layer, you must always think there are more layers that will undercover more depth or breadth of a subject.   I have said many times in class, that by becoming a Black Belt, you have now reached a state to really learn.  By keeping a beginner’s mind throughout class and during your practice, you keep open possibilities you may have been closed to if you already thought you know all there is to know.

Fudoshin

Fudoshin refers to an immovable mind.  When I teach board breaking, I test to see if a student is ready to break a board by asking if they think they can break it.  If they are hesitant, then they are not ready, because if they do not think they can break it then most likely they well not.  For a martial artist, fudoshin is critical in self-defense where your mind must be locked in on the goal to defend yourself and stay safe.  To get out of a conflict alive, your mind must never waver, hesitate, or doubt your ability to defend yourself and remain safe.   


Zanshin

Zanshin refers to a remaining mind.  For a martial artist, this means always being ready and alert.  It means not letting your guard down and staying focused on the task at hand.  This is also critical during self-defense, where a martial artist does not stop or relax until they are safe.


Mushin

Mushin refers to no mind.  For a martial artist, mushin means reacting based on the physical training and not allowing the thinking mind or emotional mind to interfere.  A student can achieve a mushin mind only after they are proficient in their techniques and can perform them effectively without thinking as a reaction versus having to think about it.  Bruce Lee describes mushin as being like water: I also discuss Mushin in my November 2010 blog “Free the Mind – Be Like Water” (http://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2010/11/).


To be proficient in each of these mindsets, a martial artist must be aware of each of them and consciously train to achieve.  Therefore, I challenge each of you to do just that each and every class.

Regards,
Kelly

“When the swordsman stands against his opponent, he is not to think of the opponent, nor of himself, nor of his enemy's sword movements. He just stands there with his sword which, forgetful of all technique, is ready only to follow the dictates of the subconscious. The man has effaced himself as the wielder of the sword. When he strikes, it is not the man but the sword in the hand of the man's subconscious that strikes.” ~ Takuan Sōhō (1573 –1645), Legendary Zen Master

Why HMK Is the Right Martial Art For Me- - Chief Instructor's Blog November 2019

There are hundreds of martial arts to choose from.  Some of the more wide spread martial arts in the United States include:  Aikido, Jeet Kune Do, Jiujitsu, Judo, Kenpo, Kung Fu, Mixed Martial Arts, Muay Thai, Karate, Krav Maga, Tai Chi, and Tae Kwon Do.  And even with each of these there are different styles or focuses.  For example, our Han Moo Kwan (HMK) Tae Kwon Do is different than World Taekwondo Federation (WTF) or International Taekwondo Federation (ITF).

If interested in more details of how WTF and ITF compare to HMK, please see my blogs in October / November 2015 (http://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2015/10/ and http://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2015/11/) and April/ May 2016 (http://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2016/04/itf-compared-to-hmk-part-i-of-ii-chief.html and http://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2016/05/)

So, how did I know that HMK was the right martial art for me?  In the beginning I was looking for four things when I joined the HMK Club:  

1.      Self-Defense Oriented

An art form that taught me practical self-defense.  I wanted to learn skills to protect myself and possibly others and feel confident of the skills I learned.  I believe our style has very practical self-defense: we keep it simple, linear and stress every technique should cause damage, therefore making it effective.   We also practice self-defense and sparring on a regular basis where we grab and punch/kick at each other to try to simulate a real attack.   I have heard of martial arts clubs that teach self-defense but never actually grab each other, or practice sparring where they do not actually hit each other.  For me, it is important that I practice the techniques gaining confidence they will work.  

2.      Exercise

A martial art that allowed me a good workout and challenged my endurance, strength and flexibility.  Our style has allowed me to get in a good workout. When I first started out, I would drip with sweat just getting through basics.  What I did not know then, but know now, is I also want to practice a martial art I could practice for many years.  Judo, for instance, with all the throws is not necessarily a good martial art in your 40s and 50s.  With HMK, I have been able to still be effective after 25 years because (1) I have adjusted to what my body can handle and (2) the energy side of the art form has allowed me still to be effective (and even more effective) in my skill as I got older.  Bob Rainie practiced until his late 80s, so I know that I can continue into at least my 70s and still be able to practice some aspects of HMK and benefit from it.  

3.      Atmosphere/ Environment

A place to practice that was supportive and had a sense of community.  I was not looking for a boot camp that pushed one even if the body was not ready for it.  I appreciate the fact that our club stresses one should honor their body.   I was also looking for a place to meet people, so I appreciate that we get together for awards dinners and have annual club picnics to gain a sense of community among ourselves.  I appreciate the instructors are not paid, and part of what we do is teach as a means to give back to our community.

4.       Personal Enjoyment

I needed to enjoy it.   In the beginning I enjoyed the physical aspect of it (the forms, the basics, self-defense, etc.).   Twenty-five years later, I still enjoy the physical aspects, but I also enjoy studying and learning the history, philosophy, the essence of the martial arts.  

Since I started, I have realized there are two other attributes one should consider when starting and continuing with a martial art.

1.      Competition Oriented

For me, training for and performing in competitions was not and is still not important to me.  Not that I am not competitive.  I played competitive sports for most of my younger years but this was not something I was looking for in martial arts.  And if it was, then HMK would probably not be the right style for me. 

2.      Modern or Traditional

I have found that I enjoy the traditional aspects of our Club and its lineage.  I enjoy studying the history and culture associated with HMK as well as being pure to the techniques and not evolving them.  But at the same time, I also enjoy that our Club has limited the formality.   While we do bow and have some Korean terms we use, a more traditional Tae Kwon Do club would use more Korean terms during practice (including counting).  Chief Instructors would be referred to as Master or Grandmaster.  There would also be less discussion on the why and less ability to ask questions.  It would be more Master Says, Students Do sort of atmosphere.  I believe our Club provides a nice balance of preserving the traditional aspects with minimal formality which I have found I enjoy.

For me, HMK is a good martial art because it meets what I am looking for in the six attributes laid out above and believe it will continue to be what I am looking for from a martial art for decades to come.

Regards,

Kelly

“Understand that the essence of martial arts is not the art itself, but what's hidden deep within yourself.” ~ Gogen Yamaguchi (1909-1989), Grandmaster of Japanese Karate-dō and founder of the International Karate-dō Gōjū Kai Association

What Makes a Hyung Good - - Chief Instructor's Blog October 2019

When a student is demonstrating a Hyung, there are up to six major elements I look for to determine whether it is good or not depending on the level of the student.

1. Mechanics

First off, for all levels, I assess the quality, efficiency, and effectiveness of the mechanics of the techniques.  I watch to see if the techniques are performed appropriately for the level of the student.  This includes the stances, the movement, where looking, and the targeting.  For example, if a student is performing an attack punch:

• Stance should be approximately twice as wide as it is long, both knees and feet pointed forward, rear leg locked, leading leg bent, with the knee not to extend past the toes of the leading foot, hips and shoulders square; back straight
• During the movement hips and shoulders remain square throughout the punch; Punching fist moves forward to sternum level, wrist flat, rotating fist 180 degrees just prior to impact; first two knuckles pointed at target; arm stays in contact with side of body throughout motion; other fist comes back in reciprocal position at the right hip (fist upward); punching arm elbow should remain slightly bent at impact
• Student is focused forward at the target, chin level
• Target is the sternum; wrist flat; first two knuckles pointed at target

At each level it is expected students’ techniques are more precise.  For example, when a student is ranked a White Belt, I am not as particular that the feet are pointed forward, but by the time a student reaches the rank of Brown Belt, I am more critical that the feet are precisely pointed forward.

2. Force/Intensity

Next, I look for the force and speed of a student’s technique.  For students ranked as White Belts, I am not looking for force and speed as the focus is on the mechanics.  But as a student reaches the higher levels, I am looking for the student to throw techniques with force/speed and with an intention to break.  The intention to do damage should be reflected not just in the technique, but in the student’s attitude. For example, there should be an intensity in the student’s eyes that they are a force to be reckoned with and people in their path should get out of their way. 

3. Grounded

I also look to see if a student is grounded while demonstrating a Hyung.  For students with ranks of White and Green Belt, I do not expect students to be grounded, but once student reach higher levels, I expect them to start demonstrating being grounded.  For Blue Belts, I would expect students to be grounded while executing some of techniques and the force is fairly consistent throughout the techniques.  By time a student reaches Black Belt, the student should be grounded at all times and the force is consistent during the execution of the techniques as well as the transitions.

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4. Application/Purpose

For students ranked Blue Belt and higher, I watch to see if the student’s techniques look as if they have an application in mind and if it would be effective as an application.  I watch to see if the motion the student is performing has a purpose.  For example, when I watch the last moves to Pyung Ahn 2, I look to see if the student is actually grabbing/crushing the target and pulling it towards oneself and punching their target or are they just going through the motion. 

5. Timing

For students ranked Brown Belt and higher, I am looking for more students to perform a Hyung with flow and continuity in its motion.  The techniques should not look mechanical in nature, but naturally move from one technique to the next while each technique is still distinctionable (i.e., the techniques are not blended).

6. Energy

For Black Belts, I look at how the student projects their energy.  Black Belt’s energy should flow from ground, and the energy is forward and linear at all times (during the techniques itself and during transitions).  I watch to see if the student is conscious of how and where they are projecting their energy and their energy is not just following their physical body.  I also watch to see if the energy matches the philosophy of Han Moo Kwan: direct, offensive, and powerful.  The techniques should look as if each movement, no matter how small, and all parts of the body move with intention to do damage: shatter, slice, destroy the target

Regards,

Kelly

"It is not the number of Kata you know, but the SUBSTANCE of the Kata you have acquired." ~ Jitsumi Gogen Yamaguch (1909-1989), Japanese martial artist and founder of the International Karate-dō Gōjū Kai Association

Hyung Are Not Just About The Pattern - - Chief Instructor's Blog September 2019

Hyung (Forms) contain the foundation of any particular art form.  Some literature states that forms were developed to ensure that the most effective methods of a particular individual or style were not lost; and therefore, the true meaning and spirit of an art form can be found through the study and understanding of the techniques within its forms.

While hyung are performed in a specific pattern/sequence, learning the form is not just about learning a pattern/sequence.  If students just focused on the pattern/sequence, students would not learn how to properly perform the techniques.  The pattern/sequence, in and of itself, does not provide the means to learn forceful, effective techniques or why certain techniques work.

Ideally, when first learning a new hyung, there should be no new techniques to be learned.  Ideally, all new techniques have been learned and practiced so the mechanics (motion, stance, eye position, etc.) are correct and performed without hesitation.  By focusing and learning the techniques, it provides context once the pattern/sequence is introduced and makes learning the pattern/sequence easier and possibly more enjoyable. 

In addition, when learning a new technique, at least one application should be practiced.  By practicing an application (in self-defense or sparring), it gives an intention to the technique.  This intention will provide the student something to concentrate and focus on; and a mental focus usually results in stronger stances and more forceful, effective techniques.  

So, you may ask, what is the benefit of the sequence or pattern?

By linking techniques in a pattern/sequence, it gives students a way to practice the techniques in a more dynamic way.  The pattern/sequence enables students to develop more mental concentration, coordination, awareness of body, effective breathing techniques, practice and become efficient in combinations, become more aware and learn to shift attention and focus from one place to another. 

In essence, after learning the techniques, practicing in a pattern/sequence provides all the key ingredients needed to survive a fight in the real world.

Regards,

Kelly

“It should be known that the secret principles of Goju Ryu karate exist in the kata.” ~ Chojun Miyogi (1888-1953), Okinawan martial artist who founded the Gōjū-ryū school of karate

What’s In A Name and Uncovering Applications - - Chief Instructor's Blog August 2019

In various blogs (more recently in September 2018, “Studying Hyung”) I have talked about the applications of the techniques and exploring them as part of studying the art form.

In the “Studying Hyung” blog, I discuss various ways to uncover tactics and principles within applications specifically within the hyung.  In this blog, when I refer to a technique, I am referring to all our techniques whether we practice them in a hyung or not.

In the “Studying Hyung” blog, I specifically mention that the number of applications is limited by one’s imagination.   In this blog, I want to explain how a name of a technique may inadvertently be limiting one’s imagination and how to potentially counter that.

Before I go much further, let me tell you a little background to the naming of techniques and specifically some of the names within our Club. 

First, I have read in several books and articles on martial arts over the years that names of techniques were changed and intentionally watered down once martial arts was introduced to children.  Specifically, a lot of techniques were referred to then as blocks versus a strike so the connotation was defensive versus offensive, therefore, being more appropriate to teach to children.

Back in 2006, the Han Moo Kwan Association took on a project to document the art form.  In doing so, the Association also determined a need to standardized technique names to (1) enhance our instructors’ ability to teach concisely and clearly, and (2) support the verbal and conceptual learners’ needs in order for them to understand and grasp the techniques.  Prior to 2006, for some techniques (for example, the opening move to Pyung Ahn 2), we did not have names for a technique and instructors used to just say “do this” or “watch/follow me”. 

While we chose to standardize names, we did it consciously just like the masters of the past did when they changed the names to something perceived to be more acceptable to teaching to children.  We understood that by doing so, we were creating an initial interpretation of the technique.  We intentionally did this because we believed a single interpretation in the beginning when first learning a technique allowed students to focus on the correct position, motion, transitions, stance, eye position, etc.  This was never meant to imply there is only one single interpretation.  

With all this said, in opening one’s imagination to the various applications to the technique we practice in our art form, one must not be stuck on the name or be limited by the name.  One must think about the position, motion, etc. instead and the various parts of the body during that technique that could be used.

A simple example is the low block.  The low block gives one a connotation it is a defensive move to defend oneself against an attack from the waist to approximately the knee (for example, a strike coming low to high, kick, etc.).  And, yes, these are applications for a low block and is the one we initially discuss so we can practice the mechanics.  If we can dismiss the name for a moment and now focus on the motion, we can come up with many more effective applications. A few examples are below:

• From same side grab:  Technique (called a low block) can be used to off-balance opponent while other hand attacks (e.g., punch, Knife Hand strike, etc.)
• From cross hand grab:  Technique (called a low block) can be used to escape from grab (quickly) or move opponent off balance/create effective openings and targets while other hand attacks (e.g., punch, Knife Hand strike, etc.)
• From single arm same side or cross hand wrist grab – by sliding back into Attack Stance at slight angle, can pull opponent off balance and towards you with reciprocal action, and the technique (called a low block) attacks the opponent’s groin.

So, in practicing application and to open up one’s imagination to all the possibilities, disregard the name of the technique and think about the motion and parts of the hand/feet being used.  By doing so, it will tremendously help in uncovering applications within our techniques.  

Regards,

Kelly

“The techniques should not be practiced simply so they can be performed in the kata. Since karate is a fighting art each technique and movement has its own meaning.  The karateka must consider their meaning, how and why they are effective, and practice accordingly” – Shigeru Egami (1912-1981), a pioneering Japanese master of Shotokan karate who founded the Shōtōkai style

For Protection Only - - Chief Instructor's Blog July 2019

Han Moo Kwon Tae Kwon Do is a close-in fighting martial art whose sole purpose is protection when options to avoid confrontation and conflict do not exist, which is the essence of traditional martial arts.   

Therefore, all of our techniques and how we perform them and why we perform them the way we do all centers on whether or not it be effective in a self-defense situation.  With that said, our goal is to maximize power and perform damage with every strike/block/ kick so we can end an altercation quickly and ensure we maximize the protection of our own body.  Let’s look at some of our basic techniques and describe some of these attributes.

1. All basic techniques
- We keep head above shoulders, chin level and shoulders square with hips at contact, so it is harder to be taken off-balance
- We maintain flat wrists, so we align the long bones (metacarpals) of the hand into the wrist and up the forearm.  This alignment permits the impact to be supported by the body.
- We are always grounded. By staying grounded, techniques can be performed as a connection of the entire body with the earth.  The end result is increased balance, stability, and strength with minimum use of muscular tension and strain.


2. Punches

 - We drive from the elbow, close to the body, in a linear motion, so the punch is more forceful and harder to detect

      - This motion is more powerful because it uses not just the delta muscles and biceps, but the larger pectoral muscles

      - This motion is also more protective of the body since a weak exists between the deltoids and pectorals.  By keeping the arm close to the body, that spot is not exposed and therefore can not be taken advantage of.

      - In addition, this motion helps ensure we hit with the first two knuckles and not the last two which could easily result in damaging the hand

- We extend forward and then rotate fist 180 degrees just before impact, the punch is more powerful and harder to stop, and the final rotation can be used to tear skin.

3. Low Block/ Medium Block/ High Block “preps”

- For our “preps”, we place our arms approximately one fist distance from our body to provide a strong defense; if too close, the position provides no defense and can easily be collapsed.


4. Medium Block

- We throw the strike such that arm is approximately 90-degree angle to maximize coverage

- We throw the strike with elbow down and such that fist ends at shoulder height to protect the ribs at all times


5. High Block

- We throw the strike such that the arm comes up past the head to ensure head is protected first, then goes outward

- We start the strike close to the face and extend outward for maximum distance, maximum force

We throw the strike with an arm angle such that object we are striking will slide off arm and covers entire head

- We throw the strike with a body lean to employ maximum force and energy; since it will be in the direction to counter an overhead strike


6. Knife Hand

- We throw the strike such that the arm close to the body, elbow down to protect the ribs

- We throw the strike linearly so it is more forceful and harder to detect (similar concept to the punches).  See details under punches for more information.

- We throw the strike as a palm strike forward and then rotate just before impact to maximize power (similar concept to the punches)


7. Front Kick

- We use an arm position to be able to protect upper body if required

- We throw the kick with a piston action since it is harder to stop and harder to catch

- We throw the kick piston action so it is linear and all the force is in one direction resulting in a more powerful kick

      - This motion is also more powerful because it ensures use of the large quadricep muscles

- We throw the kick such that the contact is with the ball of the foot and toes pulled back to protect toes

     - Broken toes take a long time to heal and you’ll be surprised how much it will limit you even in every day life


8. Side Kick

- We use an arm position to be able to protect upper body if required

- We drive forward and rotate the hips to maximize the use of the large gluteus maximus muscles, while putting the body into perfect alignment, resulting in a more powerful kick

- We throw the kick linearly and so all the force is in one direction resulting in a more powerful kick

- We throw the kick linearly so it is faster; harder to stop, harder to catch


So, while you may think sometimes it may be faster and better to throw a technique differently, keep in mind that every detail from the start, to the motion to the end are specific to maximize power and ensure maximizing protecting self so you are most effective if you ever have to use this art form.



Regards,

Kelly

“Karate is not merely practiced for your own benefit; it can be used to protect one's family or master. It is not intended to be used against a single assailant but instead as a way of avoiding injury by using the hands and feet should one by any chance be confronted by a villain or ruffian.”  ~ Anko Itosu (1830–1915), Okinawan Karate Master, from his letter 10 Precepts of Karate written in 1908

The Importance of the Cat Stance ---- Chief Instructor Blog June 2019

As mentioned in other blogs, stances are the foundation of the art form.  All of the Han Moo Kwan basics stances and the additional stances have benefits.  Continuing to refine and practice the Cat Stance will probably have the biggest impact in improving your overall martial arts techniques.

The benefits we discuss when introducing the Cat Stance include:

·         It is a very mobile stance to move toward and away from an opponent.  

·         It allows fast kicks since there is no weight is on the front foot (you are not required to shift weight prior to the kick).

·         Removing the weight from the front foot also protects the knee from injury (a kick to the front leg simply shifts it out of position instead of causing damage).

And because of these benefits above we use Cat Stance as our main fighting stance.

Cat Stance is obvious in many of our techniques: cat stance itself, jumps kicks, and many techniques within the forms.

So, just based on the above benefits, you may ask how this stance can improve other techniques.  The reality is the cat stance is in many more techniques then the obvious.  Some examples are below:

·        In performing a static front kick, when you pick up your kicking leg, you are actually in a cat stance (just maybe not as deep as your basic cat stance).  

·       The same is true of your static side kick – when you pick up your rear leg, you should be in cat stance – the same when you retract your kick before setting your leg back down.  

·       When performing side medium block in reverse, the transition is actually a cat stance

·       Many of the transitions in our forms are a cat stance.  For example, when performing a 270 degree turn from an attack stance to another attack stance, over time you will actually transition to a cat stance. 

Almost any time you are one legged you should be actually in a cat stance.  Almost any time you have little to no weight on one leg during transitions you should be in cat stance even if only for a brief moment in time.  A solid and effective cat stance will improve your balance and improve your transitions in forms.  

But probably more important is that (1) an effective cat stance will allow you to shift from a natural to a Cat Stance subtly so you do not telegraph your move and (2) perform forceful forward strikes without relying on a body slant or lean, developing a much stronger presence.  Both of these can make all the difference in staying safe in a self-defense scenario.   

As you get more and more comfortable in cat stance and once you reach an advanced level, you should strive to stay in a subtle cat stance while performing self-defense.  This will also challenge you to stay grounded and powerful while on one leg and readily have that leg available to deliver a kick or sweep without the opponent ever noticing.

I challenge all of you to look for other opportunities during martial arts practice and in your everyday life to find ways to practice and improve your cat stance.  It will make all the difference.

Regards,

Kelly

“We don't rise to the level of our expectations, we fall to the level of our training.” ~ Archilochus (c. 680 – c. 645 BC), Greek poet and soldier

It’s About The Journey ---- Chief Instructor Blog May 2019

For the last two blogs I have talked about how training in martial arts has similarities to training for a marathon or climbing Mt. Everest and while I still like these analogies, in its true essence, it is not about the race or the mountain, but about a journey to improve oneself.

While I am an advocate of goals (e.g., finishing a marathon, getting to the top of a mountain, reaching the rank of Black Belt, etc.), those “finishes” are not as important as the obstacles you overcome, the persistence of continuing, how you improve (mind, body, and spirit), and what you learn about yourself along the way.  The reality is in martial arts there is no “finish”.  Yes, there are milestones one can point to along the way, but there is no finish.

This is one of the reasons I prefer to use the terminology “studying” martial arts versus training to describe the path of martial arts.  Training can imply there is a finish or a pinnacle goal.  When studying, there is more of a connotation of continuing to learn (and grow) as a person – from a journey.  

And to learn and grow as a martial artist you need to show up to class.  And sometimes the obstacles in our journey start with showing up – so, what is keeping you from attending class?   Even if injured, what is stopping you from showing up and mentally going through the techniques and forms, listening to the instruction?   Even a mental practice will help you sustain or improve your skill and knowledge.

How have you improved from attending class?   Do you have more mental focus that has helped help you get through a or a challenging problem at work?  Do you have more stamina to get through other physical activities you take part in?  

What have you learned about yourself lately from showing up to class?   Have you learned you have more physical skill than you thought?  

In the words of our club founder Mr. Ui Jung Kim, we study “To better ourselves”.  

So, show up and if you are not showing up, ask yourself what obstacle is so important to stop you from trying to improve physically, mentally, spiritually.

Regards,

Kelly

” The black belt is not a mark or symbol of the end of the journey to one’s mastery of the arts; rather it is the mark that one is done packing for their journey and may now take the first step in their true journey. This a journey which cannot ever be complete, only traveled...”  ~ Unknown

Is Practicing Martial Arts a Marathon or More like Climbing Mt Everest? ---- Chief Instructor Blog April 2019

In last month’s blog, I described how practicing and studying martials arts was more like training for a marathon (http://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2019/03/practicing-martial-art-marathon-not.html).  And while I still think this is a very good analogy, I think an even better analogy is climbing Mt. Everest.

If you do not know anything about Mt. Everest, let me provide you a couple facts (Reference 1):

·         Tallest mountain in the world. 

·         Number of people to attempt to climb Mt. Everest: approximately 4,000. 

·         Number of people to successfully climb Mt. Everest: 660. 

Based on the statistics above, that means 16.5% of the people who attempt the climb, actually make it to the summit.  Training to climb for Mt. Everest is intense.  The best training includes cardiovascular training, strength training, and mental conditioning.  In addition, the conditions can be harsh (Reference 2):

·         The warmest average daytime temperature (in July) is only about −2 °F (−19 °C) on the summit; in January, the coldest month, summit temperatures average −33 °F (−36 °C) and can drop as low as −76 °F (−60 °C). 

·         Storms can come up suddenly, and temperatures can plummet unexpectedly. 

·         The peak of Everest is so high that it reaches the lower limit of the jet stream, and it can be buffeted by sustained winds of more than 100 miles (160 km) per hour. 

·         The risk of frostbite to climbers on Everest is extremely high.

Climbing Mt Everest does not take overnight.  And while the actual time depends on several factors (weather conditions, fitness levels, acclimation time, etc.), the average time is around two to three weeks and the fastest time is 26 hours (Reference 3).  

A couple things I find most interesting about Mt. Everest is:

·         There are 18 routes up to the summit of Mt. Everest.

·         There is no way to predict who may reach the top: men and women of all ages (13 to 80), including many people with disabilities have reached the summit

So, how is this like practicing a martial art (for purpose of this discussion, we will use earning a first-degree black belt as reaching a “summit)?

·         Not everyone reaches the summit

·         In martial arts, across almost all traditional disciplines, approximately 10% of the students who start the practice reach the level of first-degree Black Belt.  This statistic is consistent with what we see at our Club.

·         To be effective, training requires cardiovascular training, strength training, and mental conditioning

·         Time to reach the summit can vary dramatically

·         As noted in last month’s blog, the average time to earn a Black Belt is around 4-5 years.  This is consistent with the time we have seen in our Club.  We have seen people earn a first Black Belt in under 2 years and a long as 21 years. 

·            Reaching the summit of martials arts is not based on age or gender.  All ages, and genders have and can earn a first-degree Black Belt.

·            It takes commitment and perseverance despite the obstacles that may be presented along the way 

However, what I think is the most important comparison is that there is no one way or one route to earn a first-degree black belt.  There are many paths to reach this summit and one should pick the path (which includes the time to get there), that works for them depending on the conditions, most specifically health, time can devote to physical and mental training, and pure desire and focus.

Regards,

Kelly

“Technique and ability alone do not get you to the top; it is the willpower that is the most important. This willpower you cannot buy with money or be given by others..it rises from your heart."  ~Junko Tabei (1939 2016), first woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest (in 1975), and the first woman to ascend all Seven Summits by climbing the highest peak on every continent.

References:

1. http://teacher.scholastic.com/activities/hillary/archive/evefacts.htm, retrieved 3/29/19

2. https://www.britannica.com/place/Mount-Everest, retrieved 3/29/19

3. https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/mount-everest-fasted-time-climb-kilian-jornet-a7752006.html/, retrieved 3/29/19

Practicing a Martial Art: Marathon Not A Sprint -- Chief Instructor's Blog March 2019

I am sure all of you have heard something described as a marathon (26.2 miles) and not a sprint.  This description could also be applied to practicing a martial art. 

The very elite runners can finish a marathon in 2 hours and median time is around 4:20 for men and 4:50 for women [Ref 1].  And some of the slowest times are over 9 hours.  People who train for marathons spend 18-22 weeks if new to marathon running and 12 weeks if an experienced /seasoned marathon runner [Ref. 2].  It is also important not to try to rush the training – if you rush it can lead to injuries.  As you can imagine running a marathon takes time, commitment and fortitude to train and actually finish a marathon.   

The training, as well as the mental and physical strength needed to train and run a marathon is very much like studying a martial art.  

One, it takes time.  Becoming a martial artist or achieving a rank of Black Belt takes time.  While there is no documented standard, from various articles out there the average time to earn a Black Belt is around 4-5 years.  This is consistent with what we have seen in our Club.  But of course, this is dependent on many factors, including how much time you are able to dedicate to your practice.

Two, to improve, you must make a commitment to stick to the practice.  It is not something you can do only one day a week or stop for months at a time and still be effective.  If you do take time off, you need to come back slowly, else risk injury, and may need to relearn some techniques you have forgotten or to become as effective as you were before your break.  We have had a couple Club members earn a first-degree black belt in under 2 years (some of these people have come from similar training or spent almost every day training).  Being committed also means never stop showing up.  We had one student take as long as 21 years.  This student took time off at various times in his practice for various reasons, but kept coming back when they could.

And it takes fortitude.  Studying a martial art can be physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging.  There were many times before I became a Black Belt, I myself, wondered if I should continue to study (for various reasons including did I have the time).  And this can be especially true if you have setbacks like injuries or surgeries.

Studying a martial art takes time, a commitment, and fortitude.  Martial arts is not something you learn or become a master of overnight – it is a marathon.

Regards,

Kelly

“A marathon is hundreds of miles. The finish is the last 26.2." ~Unknown

References:

1. https://www.verywellfit.com/how-long-does-it-take-to-run-a-marathon-2911423, retrieved 2 March 2019

2. https://www.verywellfit.com/how-long-does-it-take-to-train-for-a-marathon-2911422, retrieved 2 March 2019

Ground Fighting ---- Chief Instructor Blog February 2019

I have recently been asked why we do not practice more ground fighting in the Club.

My rationale is not meant to say that Han Moo Kwan is a better martial art than those that focus or practice mostly on the ground, but meant to explain, based on the Han Moo Kwan objectives as a martial art, why we avoid ground fighting, if we can.

Han Moo Kwan Tae Kwon Do is meant to be used strictly for self-defense purposes, and only if options do not exist to avoid the confrontation and conflict.  So, bottom line is if you can walk away (or run) and remain safe at the start or anytime during a confrontation, that should be your choice or at least considered.  It will be much harder or not even be an option to walk away if you are on the ground.

And when we talked about self-defense, it can be any scenario – single attackers, multiple attackers, middle of the street on a hot summer day, while with people you love, etc.  And in self-defense, no technique is considered illegal and there are no rules. I contend that unless you are a master ground fighter, your probability of staying safe and not harmed against multiple attackers is very low if you are on the ground and still probably only if none of the attackers are skilled.  All it takes is one person to get behind you and kick you in the head and you will almost be instantly unable to defend yourself.  You are much better off on your feet against multiple attackers.  In addition, if you are with other people and also need/want to defend them against attackers, you will be unable to do that if you are on the ground. 

We also intentionally practice a more Aikido style of falls and rolls that allows us to get back on our feet more quickly and effectively.

We do practice ground fighting from time to time so you can have the confidence that the majority of the techniques we practice on our feet can be just as effective on the ground if for some reason you end up on the ground. 

And, we do practice some basic grappling techniques like take downs, some throws, and leg sweeps for example, but with the focus of performing the techniques and staying on our feet.  In self-defense, it can definitely be advantageous to getting your attacker on the ground while ensuring you stay on your feet (for one, gives you the opportunity to walk or run away).

So, bottom line, for self-defense purposes and assuming it can be any scenario, we believe that defending ourselves from our feet is better.

Regards,

Kelly

“Nothing is more harmful to the world than a martial art that is not effective in actual self-defense.” ~ Choki Motobu (1871–1944), Founder of Okinawan Tomari-te Karate

Why I Keep Training and Instructing – 25 Years Later - Chief Instructor's Blog January 2019

Twenty-five years ago, this month, I became a member of the Han Moo Kwan Tae Kwon Do Club.  I had just started at Lockheed Martin the previous August and worked with two members of the club, Norio Tominaga and Sam Nazzal.  Both of them encouraged me to try the club out and, based on their encouragement and for other reasons I joined.

It is sometimes hard for me to fathom it has been twenty-five-years that I have been studying the art form and for twenty years I have been an instructor (the last 11 being the Chief Instructor).  Twenty-five years ago, I would not have thought I would have been a member of the Club this long or even had become an instructor.  I did not truly understand or appreciate in the beginning all there was to learn and how martial arts is a way of life – mind, body, spirit.

The two main reasons I continue to train and instruct are I constantly learn and grow (mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually) and because I think the art form has so much to offer people.  I think it is important to share this art form with anyone who is interested.

Every day I train or instruct I learn something new.  I learn something physical in the art form – maybe a different way to mechanically throw the technique, a new energetic intent or a new way to express it.  I learn from watching students, by experimenting with the art form or just talking about it with students or instructors.  Just in the last couple of months, I have discovered another dozen or so applications in various hyung and found another way to mechanically throw the augmented medium block.  And since we also teach the energy side, we are only limited by our imagination of different applications or intents.  And once I discover something, then the task is to integrate it within all the techniques, hyung, self-defense, etc. 

I have found for myself and seen in others what studying an energy-based art form has enabled them to do in their personal and professional lives.  For myself, Han Moo Kwan has been foundational to my personal and professional growth.  I have seen people grow more confident in themselves, I have seen people come from a place of power and clarity, I have seen people discover what their potential truly is.  Because I think some of the most important work we can do is self-growth and becoming the best person we can to help ourselves and our communities, for myself, I continue to train and teach Han Moo Kwan.

I believe that all students that have joined Han Moo Kwan have benefited from it.  And I hope each of you continue to train and instruct or, if you do not currently instruct, find a calling to one day instruct to continue the art form and to continue to support your community.

Regards, 

Kelly

“Ever since I was a child, I have had this instinctive urge for expansion and growth. To me, the function and duty of a quality human being is the sincere and honest development of one's potential.” ~ Bruce Lee, (1940 –1973) American-born Chinese Hong Kong martial artist, actor, and founder of Jeet Kune Do