tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25645650912127463292024-03-25T07:06:39.235-07:00Han Moo Kwan TKD Club - Chief Instructor's CornerHan Moo Kwan Tae Kwon Do Club (Sunnyvale)http://www.blogger.com/profile/17085079385598299382noreply@blogger.comBlogger200125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-63731383550994930982024-03-02T15:13:00.000-08:002024-03-02T15:13:33.245-08:00The Three Stages of Mastery --- Chief Instructor's Blog March 2024<p> </p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">I came across a term I was not familiar with: Shu-Ha-Ri.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is based on traditional learning process in
Japanese culture of traditional arts including martial arts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It describes the phases to mastery.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Shu is the foundational phase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In martial arts this is where one learns all
the foundation to be technically proficient.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It consists of learning all the techniques and details around those
techniques exactly as taught.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a
time to absorb and learn, repeat, and perform mechanically exactly what is
being taught. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During this process you
should be able to mimic exactly what is taught, every motion, every inch of a
technique, have a mental model that can clarify each of those details and that continues
to refine that mental model until know all the fine details.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One article I read stated, traditionally one would
spend 3 to 5 years of training in this phase. In the modern world of training a
couple of days a week, it is 5 to 10 years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In this phase, it is mainly repetition of techniques, being mindful of how
one is performing them and make the corrections one is told.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When one can start self-correcting, then one
also knows one is progressing in this phase. The exercise to write down how to perform
techniques and the hyung is a good exercise to support one in and through the Shu
phase.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Ha is the understanding phase. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the Ha phase, a student of martial arts learns
and understand the application and principles of the techniques.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In this phase, one comes to understand how
and why techniques work, how one technique relates to other techniques, and in
what situations (when) the application of the technique is most effective. In
this phase, one starts to learn all the variations of techniques and applications
and not be stuck in one way. This is an exploration stage and one must be
willing to try and see what works, work with multiple partners to gain deeper understanding
of the why, how, and when techniques work. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In this phase, one will be able to determine what
techniques are best for the individual and under what situations. One article I
read stated, traditionally one would spend 5 to 15 years of training in this phase.
In the modern world of training a couple of days a week, it is 10 to 20 years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Ri is the mastery phase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In this phase you embody the principles and express them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In this phase, one will be able to use any
and all techniques as needed and react without thinking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In this phase, one is in complete control of any
situation physically, mentally and emotionally. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This phase can take a lifetime to master.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">These phases are a journey.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">There is a famous story about Yagyu Matajuro, who was a son
of the famous Yagyu family of swordsmen in the 17th century feudal Japan. He
was kicked out of the house for lack of talent and potential, and sought out
instruction of the sword master Tsukahara Bokuden, with the hope of achieving
mastery of the sword and regaining his family position. On their initial
interview, Matajuro asked Tsukahara Bokuden, “How long will it take me to
master the sword?” Bokuden replied, “Oh, about five years if you train very
hard.” “If I train twice as hard, how long will it take?” inquired Matajuro.
“In that case, ten years”, retorted Bokuden.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;">Kelly<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: #706f6f; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: black; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; mso-color-alt: windowtext; padding: 0in;">"Learning a technique is not the end in itself, it
merely indicates where you need to start." Masaaki Hatsumi (1931-present),
Togakure-ryū, a historical tradition of ninjutsu, grandmaster</span></em><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></p><br /><p></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-41412002113882978892024-02-01T05:00:00.000-08:002024-02-01T16:02:47.010-08:00How Can You Incorporate Practice in your Day to Day Life --- Chief Instructor's Blog February 2024<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal">In my previous blog, I said you should practice every
day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may think that is impossible or
you do not have the time.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">There are so many things you can do every day to incorporate
your martial arts practice in your daily life, especially keeping in mind that
martial arts, at its core, is a physical, mental, and energetic/spiritual
practice.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Physical</b></p><p class="MsoNormal">Here are some examples of ways to incorporate practice the physical
in your day-to-day life. </p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">
</p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Practice
cat stance while you are brushing teeth or in line at a store. This does not mean have to be a deep formal
cat stance, but the practicing principles of weight shifted onto one leg and
little to no weight on the opposite leg.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">When
moving heavy items, use horse stance and use your hips.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Use a knife hand to push through
a door or a front kick motion to push through a heavy door.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Use a Spear hand or a knuckle
punch to open boxes (at the seams).<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Sliding feet like attack stance
if walking in a dark room (also lets you avoid tripping on things).<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">If at the gym and running
on the tread mill or riding the bike, you can practice upper body techniques
(I actually do this sometimes when I am out hiking).<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Always walk grounded.
Always be grounded. <o:p></o:p></li>
</ul><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Mental</b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Here are some examples of ways to incorporate practicing the
mental aspects in your day-to-day life.<o:p></o:p></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in !msorm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-prop-change: "kelly hanmookwan\.org" 20240127T0827; text-indent: -.25in !msorm;">While
watching TV shows or movies (or news clips or YouTube videos of altercations),
analyze the situations on what they did well or what they could have done
better.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in !msorm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-prop-change: "kelly hanmookwan\.org" 20240127T0827; text-indent: -.25in !msorm;">Instead
of watching TV, mentally go through the basics, hyung, sparring.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in !msorm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-prop-change: "kelly hanmookwan\.org" 20240127T0827; text-indent: -.25in !msorm;">Instead
of watching TV, mentally go through various scenarios of what you should
do under what conditions (what if a family member or friend is with you?
What if you are blocked in?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>what if
you are injured? <o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2;">Always be aware of your
surroundings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Situational awareness
is the key to self-defense.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><b>Energetic/Spiritual</b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Here are some examples of ways to incorporate practicing the
energetic/spiritual aspects in your day-to-day life.</p><ul style="margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;" type="disc"></ul><div><ul style="margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Practice deep long breathing
in any physical activity you are doing (running, swimming, biking, hiking,
yoga, etc.).<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Be conscious of your
energy (and energy body) and consciously choose a form that is appropriate
for the situation (e.g., direct or indirect; hard or soft; hot, warm,
cold; normal, extended or collapsed, or combinations).</li></ul><ol style="text-align: left;"><ol><li>If needing to make a point at work
or with family, you may choose direct or hard.</li><li>If you are trying to comfort
someone or be sympathetic, you may choose warm and soft.</li><li>If at a crowded mall, you may
choose to extend so people felt it and get out of your way.</li><li>If late for that meeting with executive
leadership, you might choose collapsing your energy to slip in unnoticed.</li></ol></ol>The above are just examples. What have you come up with to
practice every day? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you have not, or if you have just been focused on one aspect of martial arts, I encourage you to come up
with actions you can take to incorporate martial arts in every aspect of your day-to-day
life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because in the end, the true
essence of martials arts is not something you do, it is a lifestyle.</div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Regards,</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;">Kelly<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: #706f6f; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: black; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; mso-color-alt: windowtext; padding: 0in;">“Kung fu lives in everything we do. It lives in how we put on
a jacket and how we take off a jacket. It lives in how we treat people.
Everything is kung fu.” ~Mr. Han, played by Jackie Chan (1954-presnt, Hong Kong
actor, filmmaker, martial artist, and stuntman) from the movie The Karate Kid (2011)</span></em><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-35322537263027583832024-01-01T05:00:00.000-08:002024-01-01T05:00:00.134-08:00How Often Should You Practice? --- Chief Instructor's Blog January 2024<p> </p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">How often should you practice? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Answer:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Every day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, every day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Does that mean you need you need to go through the basics
and hyung every day?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Will you lose your
physical skills if you do not practice every day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No, not necessarily. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">There are lots of studies out there on how long you can take
a break before significantly losing or see a reduction in physical attributes. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most studies are consistent in that you will
lose significant physical attributes like strength and endurance if you take
weeks or months off.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">You may think I am talking out of both sides of my mouth, because
I said you should practice every day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Something
keep in mind is that while you may not lose significant strength or endurance in
weeks, there are many other attributes like balance, coordination, timing, reactions
speed, etc. to consider.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, if you
need to use your martial physical skills, most likely you will need to be ready
in an instant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is not something that
you will be able to do if you do not practice consistency.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, unless injured or ill, I would suggest you
include the physical practice every other day at a minimum.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Also, remember martial arts is a way of life and it is not just
about the physical. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The mental and spiritual
side of the martial arts should definitely be part of your day-to-day life.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Gichin Funakoshi said it very well in his eleventh precept “Karate
is like boiling water: without heat, it returns to its tepid state.” from his
book, The Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Master Funakoshi states: “Only in continual training will you be able to
obtain, in mind and body, the fruits of the Way.”</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">And, if you also think about it, it actually takes less energy
to keep water boiling once already boiling or already hot compared to starting
from warm or cold water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, a little every
day is easier to maintain then starting and stopping after days or weeks.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">As we enter 2024, I encourage you to find a way to include
some aspect of your training (physical, mental, spiritual) daily.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Regards,</p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Kelly<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a name="_Hlk154576617"><i><span style="color: black;">“Learning through practice is like pushing a cart up a hill: if
you slack off, it will slip backwards.” ~ Japanese proverb </span></i></a><em><span style="color: black; font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></p><br /><p></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-19919081612167159802023-12-01T06:00:00.000-08:002023-12-01T06:00:00.186-08:00Why Should You Continue to Practice The Kibon Series --- Chief Instructor's Blog December 2023<p> </p><p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">It is nice to learn something new.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And sometimes we think if we are learning something
new (e.g., technique, concept, principle, hyung, etc.) we have mastered a technique
or hyung and are ready to just move on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is most likely not the case. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You should not sacrifice practicing the details
and gaining more depth of skill of known techniques for something new.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">In fact, the basics are not as basic as you might think
they are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can take years to become effective
even with what appears to be the most basic of our techniques or hyung and even
longer to master it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">As an example, to master any one hyung, you will need to be
able to do the following every time:<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Perform each technique
and transition mechanically precise<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Perform each technique
and transition linearly</span></p><p class="yiv5259017635msonormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">3. Maintain ground throughout
the form, including during the transition of stances</span></p><p class="yiv5259017635msonormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">4. Focus your energy and
movements in one direction at all times</span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Perform each technique
(including transitions) such that each micromovement has a purpose and can
cause damage <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">In addition, for each hyung there are specific, unique challenges
to master.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The below table lists those challenges
in the kibon series.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody><tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0;">
<td style="border: 1pt solid windowtext; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 90.9pt;" valign="top" width="121">
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><b><span style="color: black;">Hyung<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
</td>
<td style="border-left: none; border: 1pt solid windowtext; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 351.9pt;" valign="top" width="469">
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><b><span style="color: black;">Challenges to
Master<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 1;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: 1pt solid windowtext; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 90.9pt;" valign="top" width="121">
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Kibon Hyung<o:p></o:p></span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: 1pt solid windowtext; border-left: none; border-right: 1pt solid windowtext; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 351.9pt;" valign="top" width="469">
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Effectively
turn in Attack Stance <o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Make
use of a turn in an Attack Stance<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 2;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: 1pt solid windowtext; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 90.9pt;" valign="top" width="121">
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Kibon One<o:p></o:p></span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: 1pt solid windowtext; border-left: none; border-right: 1pt solid windowtext; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 351.9pt;" valign="top" width="469">
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Effectively
rotate and turn in cat stance <o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Make
use of a turn in a cat stance <o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Linear
transition from Cat Stance to Attack Stance<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Lower
the Cat Stance to match the height of the Attack Stance<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 3;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: 1pt solid windowtext; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 90.9pt;" valign="top" width="121">
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Kibon Two<o:p></o:p></span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: 1pt solid windowtext; border-left: none; border-right: 1pt solid windowtext; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 351.9pt;" valign="top" width="469">
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo4;">Linear transition from Cat
Stance to Attack Stance<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo4;">Staying level in the
transition from Cat Stance to Attack Stance<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 4;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: 1pt solid windowtext; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 90.9pt;" valign="top" width="121">
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Kibon Three <o:p></o:p></span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: 1pt solid windowtext; border-left: none; border-right: 1pt solid windowtext; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 351.9pt;" valign="top" width="469">
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3;">Make use of a turn in a
cat stance <o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3;">Maintain set in Cat
Stance<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3;">Keep shoulders and hips
square<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3;">Control and manage the
power of the kicks outward and retracting<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 5; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: 1pt solid windowtext; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 90.9pt;" valign="top" width="121">
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Kibon Four<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: 1pt solid windowtext; border-left: none; border-right: 1pt solid windowtext; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 351.9pt;" valign="top" width="469">
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal">Control the rear leg
kick and set it into attack stance</li></ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></p><p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">As you can imagine, the items above can take quite a bit of
time to master.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal">So, am I suggesting not learning anything new until you have
mastered the previous techniques or hyung you have been taught? Not at all. What I am suggesting is there is still a lot
to master even with what appears to be simple like kibon hyung. You should always continue to practice what you
have already learned and not just move on to new techniques or hyung.</p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></p><p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Kelly<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black;">“In the past, it was expected that about three years were
required to learn a single kata, and usually even an expert of considerable
skill would only know three, or at most five, kata.” ~ Gichin Funakoshi
(1868-1957), founder of Shotokan Karate<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p> </o:p></span></em></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-29117920198690319252023-11-01T06:00:00.016-07:002023-11-01T06:00:00.142-07:00Making your Techniques “Lean” --- Chief Instructor's Blog November 2023<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal">More is not always better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="color: black;">
</span>Sometimes, less is better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am
sure most of you are aware of the Lean Principles of the Toyota Production System
(TPS) that were created to eliminate waste and be as efficient as possible. So,
one might wonder, how these same principles could be applied to make our martial
arts techniques as efficient as possible. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The three terms associated that are used in the TPS to describe
wasteful practices to be eliminated are Muda, Mura, Muri [Ref. 1].<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s looks at each of these and how they may
apply to martial arts techniques.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Muda is any activity that consumes resources without creating
value [Ref. 1].<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, you have “muda” in executing
your techniques if you have any additional movements or actions that are taking
away from the speed or force of your technique or even putting yourself more at
risk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some examples include:</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;">Slight backwards hitch before
throwing your forward punch. That slight backward is taking more time and expending
energy in the wrong direction. <o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;">Moving your front foot
first in jump kicks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is taking
time to plant the foot and puts that front foot at risk.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;">Tensing your shoulders or raising
your shoulders in high block or knife hand.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;">Any technique that is not
linear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As, we have discussed many
times, liner techniques are the shortest path to your target, so takes
less time and results in most forceful.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal">Mura is an unevenness in an operation [Ref.1]. So, you have “mura”
in your techniques (1) if you are not moving from one technique to another in a
smooth, even way or (2) if you are not keeping your energy constant versus going
up and down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Going up and down is
inefficient and does not ensure all your energy is being able to be focused in
a singular way and forces you to constantly redirect it which expends energy that
does not go towards your technique. In addition, you may have “mura” in your
techniques if you are not balanced or have improper posture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some examples include:</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3;">Uneven weight between your
feet in horse stance. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Horse stance is
most effective when have weight evenly on both feet. <o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3;">Shoulders not over hips in
attack stance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal">Muri is overburdening the equipment or operator [Ref. 1]. So,
you have “muri” in your techniques (1) if you ae going faster than your
physical body can handle at this time and you are not in control, (2) if you
are throwing more force than your body can handle at this time and you are
off-balance, (3) if you are trying to blend techniques and not performing them one
then the other, or (4) you are only using internal energy and not external
energy.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">To make your techniques leaner, think about each of these
principles and systematically apply them one by one to each of your techniques,
incorporating them into your hyung, sparring, and self-defense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Making your techniques lean will result in
more effective techniques, and more effective techniques will keep you safe. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></p><p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Kelly<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black;">“It’s not the daily increase but daily decrease. Hack away
at the unessential.” ~ Bruce Lee (1940 –1973), American-born Chinese Hong Kong
martial artist, actor, and founder of Jeet Kune Do<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Reference:</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal">1.<b> </b><a href="https://www.lean.org/lexicon-terms/muda-mura-muri/">Muda, Mura, Muri
- Get a Quick Introduction | Lean Enterprise Institute</a>, retrieved 10/21/23</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p> </o:p></span></em></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-34581095715017451142023-10-07T00:11:00.000-07:002023-10-07T00:11:06.505-07:00Value of Training with Variety of Partners --- Chief Instructor's Blog October 2023<p><br /></p><p>In my last blog, I described key concepts to embrace in
order to walk away from and survive any attack.
Embracing the concepts are one thing, but you also need to ensure your training
provides an environment that allows you to practice these concepts as much as
possible. </p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">One of the best ways to do this is to ensure you are practicing
and training with a variety of partners with different strengths, heights, sizes,
technical skill levels, and different intensity levels.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Every person attacks differently, so by practicing with a
variety of partners it will help you experience the randomness nature of attacks.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">By practicing with different partners, you really learn how
to apply techniques, so they are effective.
Good techniques should be effective against almost anyone. If you only practice with the same people with
the same skill levels, you may not learn what really makes the technique work
well. And while you are learning this,
if a technique is not working, you get the opportunity to practice not stopping
and trying something else until it is effective. </p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Training with partners of different heights will allow you
to train at multiple ranges (close in, kicking range, weapons range, etc.). This will also teach what techniques are more
effective against taller people or shorter people. Training with partners of different
heights and sizes also provides another opportunity to experience randomness since
fighters tend to take advantage of height or size and fight differently than
say smaller or shorter people.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Training with partners with lower technical skill will train
you to stay focused and not underestimate an opponent.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Training with more skilled partners may provide the opportunity
to practice not stopping and trying something else if at first the technique
was not effective.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Training with partners with higher technical skill can provide
an experience to practice deep breathing.
Sometimes when people train with higher technical skill, they get
nervous or anxious and their heart rate goes up. When this happens, this is an opportunity to practice
that deep breathing to stay focused and in control. Similarly, by training at high intensity levels
you have the opportunity to practice deep breathing. </p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">It may not always be possible to train with a variety of partners but take advantage when you can. </p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Regards,</p><p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal">Kelly<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">"You
should not have a favorite weapon. To become over-familiar with one weapon is
as much a fault as not knowing it sufficiently well.” ~ Miyamoto Musashi (c. 1584 –1645) - famous Japanese swordsman,
the author of The Book of Five </span></i></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-29186014284360455992023-09-02T09:51:00.002-07:002023-09-02T09:51:41.868-07:00Some Key Concepts to Surviving an Attack --- Chief Instructor's Blog September 2023<p> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">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.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the event, you
must defend yourself there are some key concepts that everyone should embrace
to walk away from and survive any attack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> 1. </o:p>Randomness</p><p class="MsoNormal">You never know how your assailant will
attack or react, so do not try to predict it. Attacks can be very random and while
you may not think a person will attack or grab a certain way, you do not know,
so you should not predict. Assailants
may typically react a certain way to an applied self-defense technique, but you
should not assume. For example, sometimes
when you are grabbed and you perform a self-defense technique, the assailant
may hang on or sometimes they will not. So,
you should always be prepared and be in the moment, ready for anything.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">2. Deep, Even Breathing</p><p class="MsoNormal">In an altercation, your body
naturally kicks in its fight or flight response which results in increased
heart rate and more rapid breathing all controlled by the sympathetic nervous
system. During this rapid breathing, you are less clear in your
thinking and in control of your thoughts and actions which are being dominated
by the fight or flight response. And if your heart rate and breathing get
too far out of control, you will not be in a state to react as effectively. By deep, even breathing in pressured
situations, you will help kick in the parasympathetic nervous system which will
slow down your heart rate. Deep, even breathing will provide more oxygen to
your body resulting in a) clear thoughts and actions, b) muscles having the
oxygen they need to perform, c) more endurance to last during the altercation,
and d) the energy flow that accompanies breathing to make your techniques more
effective.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">3. If at first you do not succeed,
do something else</p><p class="MsoNormal">The techniques we practice in class
are effective (if performed correctly) but maybe not 100% of the time. Depending on the attacker’s body type, mental
state (e.g., on drugs), how they attack, a particular technique may not be as
effective. So, if your first technique
to a response to an attack is not completely effective, do not keep trying the
same technique. You should try a second
or third technique, but do not stop.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">4. Never underestimate assailant</p><p class="MsoNormal">Do not assume your assailant is not
trained or that since you are trained an assailant is easy to defeat. Stay confident in your abilities, but do not underestimate
the assailant. </p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">5. Do not assume anyone will come
to your aid</p><p class="MsoNormal">Unfortunately, in our society today,
people are more interested in videotaping and posting to social media platforms versus
coming to someone's aid or even calling 9-1-1 to help. So do not assume anyone that sees the
altercation will help in any way.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">6. Watch out for buddies</p><p class="MsoNormal">Do not assume there may not be more
than one assailant. Keep vigilant and aware
of your surroundings. Maybe the second assailant
is not even someone the initial assailant knows but just wants to join into an
attack.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">7. Assume a Weapon</p><p class="MsoNormal">Assume your assailant may have a weapon
but has kept it concealed. Do not assume
there may not be more than one assailant.
Keep vigilant and aware of your surroundings. </p><p class="MsoNormal">This leads to probably the most important
concept.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">8. Do not stop until you feel
safe</p><p class="MsoNormal">Continue to fight until you feel
safe. I cannot tell you what that feels like for you (and maybe very situational
dependent), but you will know.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Kelly<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black;">“Self-defense is not just a set of techniques; it’s a state
of mind, and it begins with the belief that you are worth defending.”~ Rorion
Gracie <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(1952 -), Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Grand Master<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="color: black; font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p> </o:p></span></em></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-51380271319485895752023-08-01T09:00:00.009-07:002023-08-01T09:00:00.150-07:00Principles Behind the Techniques --- Chief Instructor's Blog August 2023<p><span><br /></span></p><p><span>While being able to perform the techniques very well is important,
to truly master a martial art you must also understand and master the principles
behind the art form.</span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">First let me start with the fact that Han Moo Kwan is a
self-defense martial art style.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is designed
for you to stay safe and end altercations quickly during in close combat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Therefore, its principles are all based on these
premises.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Principles are why the techniques
work.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-prop-change: "kelly hanmookwan\.org" 20230708T1657;">I
will discuss each of the key principles and why it is important to mastering
the art form.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Proper Stances<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN" style="color: black; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Every
stance has an alignment that keeps you balanced – for the most part it is head
over shoulders and shoulders over hips with your mass over your center of gravity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are “out of square” in punches, knife
hand, etc., you can easily be pulled off-balanced or fall forward if an attacker
steps aside as you lean in to strike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-prop-change: "kelly hanmookwan\.org" 20230708T1657;"><b>Short
Strikes<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Short strikes are harder to see coming and to stop. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Short strikes put you in an advantage since
most people cannot fight close in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This advantage
will keep you safe and end an altercation quickly.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Linear Strikes<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Linear strikes are also faster and harder to stop. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both of these attributes are important to end
an altercation quickly. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-prop-change: "kelly hanmookwan\.org" 20230708T1657;"><b>Every
movement does damage<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">If every movement causes damage, it will end an altercation
quicker.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And this means not only strikes
and kicks, but the transitions, turns, “in between” techniques.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you start using “preps” as another means
to do damage, that is a good start.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Protect yourself at all times<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">If you are protecting yourself at all times, especially
vulnerable spots, you will stay safe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
protect ourselves when we keep elbows close to the body and protect the ribs/kidneys,
or by keep weight off the front foot in cat stance to protect the knee, or arm
traveling straight up first in high block to protect the head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If any of your techniques leave you
vulnerable for other than a fraction of a second, you may relook at how you are
performing the technique.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Be grounded at all times<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">By being grounded at all times, you are harder to move and if
you do move, you move in control and safely. By being grounded your techniques
come from your center which makes your techniques more powerful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Use Energy<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">When we use energy, we add even more power to our techniques.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we add the intention of inflicting severe
damage and destruction to the energy, then the techniques are near impossible
to stop. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And therefore, any altercation
will end quickly. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">None of these principles get mastered all at once.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It takes years of practice and focus on each
one, then many at once, then all at once to master the principles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And once you master the principles, you will
master the techniques, and then you will master the art form. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></p><p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Kelly<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><i><span style="color: black;">"Techniques are simple but the principle is profound.”
~ from Muye Dobo Tongji, a martial arts manual published in 1790 in Korea, written
by Yi Deongmu (1741–1793), Pak Je-ga (1750–1805) and Baek Dong-soo (</span><span style="color: #202122;">1743–1816</span><span style="color: black;">)<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><em><span style="color: black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></em></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-49362969533776586292023-07-01T10:40:00.001-07:002023-07-01T10:40:11.841-07:00Are Martial Arts About Violence? --- Chief Instructor's Blog July 2023<p><span><br /></span></p><p><span>Some people believe that martial arts is about violence and
therefore would never study or practice it.</span><span>
</span><span>In the movies or on TV shows, in many instances depicts people using martial
arts techniques in an offensive, violent manner, so I can understand why people
may think martial arts is about violence.</span><span> </span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">But this is not what traditional martial arts is about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact, traditional self-defense based martial
arts is more about keeping peace; it is not about violence. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">As a reminder, first steps of self-defense are awareness
and avoidance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are aware of your
surroundings and avoid a physical altercation, then you have successfully defended
yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If those options do not work,
then you defend yourself physically.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Miyamoto
Musashi legendary Japanese samurai and author of The Book of Five Rings said it
well when he wrote, “The ultimate aim of martial arts is not having to use
them.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">But to be able to defend yourself physically, you need to
be trained and be comfortable with going against aggressive behavior.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have to understand that behavior is not
about you and let if not affect you. Then you can stay in control and do what
you need to do to stay safe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">It is actually natural to go into flight or fight mode when
encountering violence. If aggressive behavior or name calling, for example, gets
you excited or amped up, this will not help you stay in control, stay calm, and
end an altercation quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It would probably
actually make the altercation go longer and the longer it goes the worse the
injuries could be for you. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">And therefore, you need to experience it and study it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You need to be able to train in scenarios of aggressive
behavior in order to not overreact if you encounter them in a real situation. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And in some cases, that calm demeaner can deescalate
a situation before it becomes physical. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">So, while you may need to experience and study violence to
be effective in self-defense, it is not to learn to be violent or promote violence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is truly so you can learn to avoid it and/or
defeat it.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></p><p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Kelly<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><i><span style="color: black;">“I am not teaching you how to fight. I am teaching you how
to control evil. That’s what we are really doing here.” ~ Masaaki Hatsumi (1931
– present), founder of the Bujinkan Organization and a Togakure-ryū grandmaster<em><o:p></o:p></em></span></i></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-66518622892658323662023-06-01T20:38:00.002-07:002023-06-01T20:38:45.108-07:00Staying Motivated to Practice and Train --- Chief Instructor's Blog June 2023<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal">Martial arts is a lifelong pursuit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like many skills, if you do not practice or
train you will lose the skill set.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gichin
Funakoshi in his 11th principle from his book <i>The Twenty Guiding Principles
of Karate</i>, explained it as “Karate is like hot water. If you do not heat it
constantly it grows tepid.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, one way not to turn your martial arts into
tepid water is to stay motivated. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">So, how does one stay motived to practice and train week
after week, year after year?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have been
training and practicing for nearly 30 years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Below are a few things I have used to stay motivated over the years.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> 1. </o:p>Remember Why I Started</p><ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
</ol>
<p class="MsoNormal">Sometimes you can stay motivated just by remembering why you
started in the first place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe you wanted to become more fit, more
flexible, learn self-defense?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whatever it
was, maybe just remembering and reminding yourself why you started is enough to
be motivated to practice and train that day, that week, that month or that
year. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> 2. </o:p>Focus on the Process</p><ol start="2" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
</ol>
<p class="MsoNormal">If you feel like your training is not going well, be more process
oriented as in the Eastern way of learning and focus on the process and not the
results.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As noted in my blog last month,
if you only focus on the results, during those times when you struggle, you can
end up stopping and quitting.</p><p class="MsoNormal">3. Create Goals</p><ol start="3" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
</ol>
<p class="MsoNormal">As mentioned in my last month’s blog, having goals can be a
way to stay motivated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These goals can
be short or more long term.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">A few ideas for short term goals:<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.75in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Learn a new technique<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.75in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Learn the next hyung<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.75in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Learn Mr. Kim’s timing combination<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">A few ideas for longer goals:<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.75in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Earn the next belt<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.75in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Become faster. It could be as simple as performing
hyung a second or two faster while still performing it technically correct.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.75in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Improving your endurance. Maybe your goal is to
get through all of the basics with full power and not lose your breath.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.75in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Learn a new interpretation of a technique and
incorporate it into all techniques, every hyung, everything you do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.75in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Learn to perform every hyung mirrored without hesitation
and technically correct. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">For some longer goals, it can be beneficial to monitor
yourself by creating a tracking method like a table of values denoting different
levels of how you feel you are performing the technique (e.g., sometimes, most
time, almost always).</p><p class="MsoNormal"> 4. Stick to a Schedule</p><ol start="4" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
</ol>
<p class="MsoNormal">Create and stick to a practice and training schedule.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even if tired, still train but go slow or
with less power. Or just mentally go through all the techniques and hyung. As Mr.
Kim would say, “Show up, work out”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> 5. </o:p>Have a Training Partner</p><ol start="5" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
</ol>
<p class="MsoNormal">Connect with someone to work out with and hold each other
accountable to show up and work out.</p><p class="MsoNormal">6. Keep A Positive Attitude</p><ol start="6" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
</ol>
<p class="MsoNormal">Our mental attitude is also key.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you show up and decide you do not want to
train, you will most likely have a bad training session. And, as your practice goes
poorly, you will reenforce not wanting to be there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So regardless, come in with a positive attitude,
even if you need to pretend you want to be there and are enjoying it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Regards,</p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Kelly</span></p><p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black;">“If you ever lack motivation to train then think what
happens to your mind and body when you don't.” ~ Shifu Yan Lei (1973- ), Qigong
and Kungfu master and author<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="color: black; font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p> </o:p></span></em></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-60309353346941272672023-05-06T08:48:00.000-07:002023-05-06T08:48:36.370-07:00Western or Eastern Approach to Learning Martial Arts --- Chief Instructor's Blog May 2023<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></p><p></p><h3></h3><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">Western and Eastern cultures are very different in their approaches
to learning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, is one better than the
other to learn martial arts? Let’s look at two key differences.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">1. Process Oriented vs Goal Oriented</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">In Eastern culture, the process of learning is valued. And
it is actually acceptable to struggle, because it is part of the process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In Western culture, we value the results and
sometimes use struggles as an excuse to stop. In Western culture, we set goals
and stay focused to meet those goals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
I have mentioned I study martial arts, the first question I am usually are
asked are “What is your rank?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or “Are
you a Black Belt”? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">So, which one is better to learn martial arts?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span><br /><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">I think there is value in both.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Setting goals and working towards those goals
can be very motivating and keep people focused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>However, if you do not take time to understand the journey/the path you
took towards your goal you may have missed out on some key principles, thoughts,
or different concepts you may not have otherwise discovered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If though, you let struggles lead you to stop,
or quit trying something, then you may also never reach your goal. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The other potential issue is if you think a goal
is a stopping place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If the goal is to only
achieve a Black Belt, for instance, you may not realize the true benefits of
studying a martial art long term.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">2. Self-Discovery vs Taught</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">In Eastern culture, the instructor does not explain how or
why you just practice over and over and over again until you understand the concept.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mr. Kim did not explain why you were supposed
to do anything - he would just say do this or do that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If a student tried to ask him why, he would not
answer and just reiterate the need to practice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is the Eastern way of teaching.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Eventually, you would understand through doing some concept or principle
after practicing 1,000 or 10,000 times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
Western Culture, teachers explain more the how and the why.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And we encourage students to ask questions as
part of the learning process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact,
in school today students are expected to explain how they solved a math problem
in words or explain to others students so they can ask questions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span><br /><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">So, which one is better to learn martial arts?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span><br /><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">I think there is value in both.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In practicing over and over again, you can
gain more proficiency.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And when in self-discovery
mode, you are probably ready for the information.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes, we are told concepts (even over
and over again) but it does not click.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But when you are practicing and working critically through the techniques
and finally get it, it is probably because you were ready to learn it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have had students come and tell me - you know
that thing you have been trying to tell me, well I was working on this form and
finally got it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In addition, understanding
the why and being able to explain it may provide you a deeper knowledge of the
form, the technique, the concept.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And, each
student learns and takes in information differently, so if an instructor only
explains the what, students may not learn at all or give up before learning.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">So, for me, whether you continue to learn and grow through continually
setting new and different goals, through the process, through doing a technique
a thousand times, by studying the how and why, or all of the above, it does not
matter as much as the fact you continue and don’t stop. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">Regards,</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">Kelly</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><i><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">"A
student's mentality in learning martial arts is to overcome one's
problems." ~ Ip Chun (1924-present), Wing Chun master, son to Ip Man who
was Bruce Lee’s Wing Chun teacher</span></span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: black;">References:</span></b></div><p class="MsoNormal">1. <a href="https://www.lingualinkdc.net/blog/eastvswest" style="font-weight: normal;">Does the Difference
Between Eastern and Western Learning Styles Impact English Study
Practices? — LinguaLinkDC</a><span color="windowtext" style="font-weight: normal;">, retrieved 5/5/23<br /></span></p><ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
</ol><br /><p></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-22107561441120628862023-04-01T20:09:00.005-07:002023-04-02T21:59:09.434-07:00What Constitutes a Martial Art? --- Chief Instructor's Blog April 2023<p> </p><p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">What constitutes a martial art?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is boxing a martial art?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wresting? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Olympic style Tae Kwon Do? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are lots of opinions and thoughts out
there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will share some of those opinions
and thoughts as well as mine.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">If you go by just the word martial, which is derived from
the name Mars, the Roman god of war, it would any style that could be used in
combat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And if we agree that is the definition
of a martial art, then firearms, archery, fencing should be considered a martial
art.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If part of the definition of a martial
art is that it is systemized or “codified through curriculum” [Ref. 2] then a
few of these may fall off the list like firearms.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">In Japanese, the compound of the toots “bu”,
translates to war or martial.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The term bujutsu
usually refers to the application of techniques to real-world situations or
battlefield situations [Ref. 4] or martial arts techniques [Ref. 6].<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It is nothing less than a complete study of
the arts of war and combat.” [Ref. 7]<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So,
if one’s interpretation is a martial art is synonymous with the definition of bujutsu,
then you might consider boxing, wresting, and firearms but maybe not Olympic Style
Tae Kwon Do (my personal opinion is Olympic Style Tae Kwon Do is designed as a
sport and would not be effective on the battlefield). <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">If you look at other interpretations, you may come to different
conclusions.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">For example, Chinese character “mu” can be translated into
the word martial. “<span>The Chinese character “mu”
literally means “to stop fighting” or “to put down weapons.” The word “arts” in
martial arts points to skill, expression of beauty or creativity. The
combination “martial arts” may be interpreted to mean ending conflict skillfully.
Peace is the ultimate goal of the martial arts [Ref. 3].”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
this case, you would take all combative sports like boxing, wresting and Olympic
Style Tae Kwon Do off the list as being a martial art.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">The Japanese term Budo literally
translates to the “Martial Way’, but I have also seen it refer to as the way of
the warrior, the martial way, and the way of martial arts. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“</span><span style="color: #202122; font-size: 11pt;">Budō is the idea of formulating propositions,
subjecting them to philosophical critique and then following a "path"
to realize them.”</span><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;"> </span><i><span style="color: #202122; font-size: 11pt;">Dō</span></i><span style="color: #202122; font-size: 11pt;"> signifies a
"way of life" [Ref. 4].<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="color: black;">So, if one’s interpretation is a martial
art is synonymous with the definition of budo, then you must consider not just the
techniques and the combat skills but “the path, the way”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The path
most commonly refers to the means to self-improvement in body, mind and spirit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, by this definition, if boxing or wresting
was as a way to achieve mind, body, spirit, then they would be considered a martial
art.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">In my opinion, a martial art encompasses both the teachings
of techniques to protect yourself in real-world situations in a codified, systematic
way as well as providing a path that improves mind, body and spirit. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">How would you define a martial art?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Kelly<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><i><span style="color: black;">“A Martial Artist may become A professional fighter but not every
Fighter is capable of becoming A martial artist. Martial Arts are about
restoration of physical and spiritual balance and fluidity; they are about
observing restraints and 'setting example'. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>~ </span></i><i><span style="color: #333333; font-size: 11pt;">Soke Behzad Ahmadi, Okinawa ShorinjiRyu Swsni, Advisor
at International Seishinryu Karate Federation (ISKF), Technical Advisor at
Korea Taekwondo Association and author<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">References:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 21pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><a href="https://infomory.com/what-is/what-is-martial-arts/#:~:text=Martial%20arts%20usually%20refer%20to%20any%20type%20of,many%20forms%2C%20types%20or%20systems%20of%20martial%20arts.">What
is Martial Arts? - A Knowledge Archive (infomory.com)</a>, retrieved 4/1/2023<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 21pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><a href="https://www.martialdevotee.com/articles/martial-art-definition">Martial Arts
- A Definitive Guide - Martial Devotee</a>, retrieved 4/1/2023<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 21pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><a href="https://www.master-sh-yu.com/articles/what-is-the-true-meaning-of-martial-arts/#:~:text=The%20word%20%E2%80%9Carts%E2%80%9D%20in%20martial%20arts%20points%20to,is%20the%20ultimate%20goal%20of%20the%20martial%20arts.">What
is the True Meaning of Martial Arts? | Master S.H. Yu Martial Arts
(master-sh-yu.com)</a>, retrieved 4/1/2023<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 21pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bud%C5%8D#:~:text=However%2C%20both%20bud%C5%8D%20and%20bujutsu%20are%20used%20interchangeably,the%20mind%20and%20how%20one%20should%20develop%20oneself.">Budō
- Wikipedia</a>, retrieved 4/1/2023<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 21pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><a href="https://floridajukido.com/bujutsu-bugei-vs-budo/">Bujutsu (Bugei) vs.
Budo: – Welcome To The Florida Jukido Jujitsu Academy Website</a>, retrieved
4/1/2023<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 21pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><a href="https://blog.awma.com/budo-vs-bushido/">Budo vs Bushido | AWMA Blog</a>, retrieved
4/1/2023<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 21pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><a href="https://www.way-of-the-samurai.com/What-is-Koryu-Bujutsu.html">What is
Koryu Bujutsu (way-of-the-samurai.com)</a>, retrieved 4/1/2023<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 21pt;"><em><span style="color: black; font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p> </o:p></span></em></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-43079317477275979762023-03-04T17:04:00.001-08:002023-03-04T17:04:37.598-08:00Getting Out of Our Comfort Zone --- Chief Instructor's Blog March 2023<p> </p><p></p><p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">As we have been discussing in class, practicing basics and
hyung precisely are important and have benefits, but you must also get out of
your comfort zone to ensure your techniques are effective in all practical applications.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you can only perform techniques one
way and move one way, you will be limited in your ability to defend yourself
and could actually mentally get stuck and freeze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">By doing things similar but different it helps create new
neuropathways that allows us to move more freely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of the exercises and drills that force us
to move differently, perform techniques on different sides, and/or makes our brain
make different mind-body connections include (many of which we have practiced
in class) include:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Performing hyung mirrored
(i.e., start to the left, versus the right)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Performing hyung with
reverse strikes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Practicing various basics
at different heights (low, medium, high) and in different directions (downward,
upward, outward, etc.).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Practicing combinations
using different stance transitions than normally practiced in basics or hyung
(e.g., transition from a side horse to a cat stance)<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Practicing techniques
and hyung at different speeds and cadences<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Practicing techniques,
hyung, combinations imagining different scenarios<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Practicing techniques while
imagining targets at different distances (i.e., close in, kicking range, just outside
kicking range).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">In addition, by continuing to push ourselves outside our
comfort zone we are less likely to become complacent. While it is great to feel comfortable in performing
techniques and feeling proficient in hyung, if we do not continue to explore
ways of doing things differently then that complacency can lead to laziness. One of my favorite quotes is by Norman Augustine
(United States Under Secretary of the Army from 1975 to 1977 and chairman and
CEO of the Lockheed Martin Corporation), “There are no lazy veteran lion
hunters.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><h3>
</h3><p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Imagine what it felt like the first time you performed a basic
side kick well. If you stopped there and
never tried to improve it and perform it differently, how much more competent
would you feel performing that technique?
When we get lazy, we stop growing and learning. When we practice outside our comfort zone and
practice the new ways, we not only improve our competency but also our confidence
which will lead us to continuing to be open to trying new ways of practicing. <o:p></o:p></span></p><h3>
</h3><p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Kelly<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: black;">“Karate is
like boiling water: without heat, it returns to its tepid state.“ ~ <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gichin Funakoshi (1868-1957), founder of
Shotokan Karate</span></i></p><p></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-84190843965265382772023-02-01T22:40:00.002-08:002023-02-01T22:47:09.235-08:00Han Moo Kwan Club 50th Anniversary Reflection - - Chief Instructor's Blog February 2023<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><em><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-style: normal; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Over fifty years ago, a chance
meeting between Mr. Bob Rainie and Mr. Ui Jung Kim at a gas station in <st1:city w:st="on">Campbell</st1:city> led to a demonstration and then the birth of the
Han Moo Kwan Club in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Sunnyvale</st1:city></st1:place>
in February 1973.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-style: normal; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Since then, over a 1,000 people joined
the Club.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of those, our records
indicate, 619 have tested and reached at least the rank of Green Belt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of those, 67 have reached at least the level
of First-Degree Black Belt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-style: normal; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">While Mr. Kim and some of his original
students have since passed, most notably Mr. Bob Rainie and Mr. Gary Murray,
along with one of our past Chief Instructors, Mr. Jeff Burgess, the Club
carries on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe the numbers are not what
it once was and currently we do not have a permanent location to
train, we do continue on.</span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-style: normal; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Mr. Kim was quoted as saying more
than once, “Show up, work out”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And that
is what we have been doing, whether it be via Zoom, in the park, and hopefully
soon a new location, we are showing up and working out to honor Mr. Kim, our
founding members, and all those instructors who taught just to share their
knowledge and the art form.</span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-style: normal; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Not only did they share their knowledge
they shared and taught overtly the energy side of martial arts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the East, the energy side was held close and
never openly shared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was discovered
after years and maybe decades of training by experiencing it from the masters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the West, most instructors never discovered
the energy side or believed it exists so they could not pass it along to their students.
Or they may be demonstrating it but not overtly teaching it, so very few
students are discovering it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-style: normal; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">But our Club has had the unique experience
of our founders not only overtly teaching but finding methods to help us understand
it quicker than eastern methods and helping us understand how the energy side
benefits us not just in martial arts but in our everyday lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I feel extremely fortunate and grateful for these
teachings which have sharped and influenced my life in such positive ways. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-style: normal; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">On this 50<sup>th</sup> anniversary,
I ask each of you who have been a part of the Club whether for a month or
decades, to reflect on the teachings you have received for practically free,
how those teachings have helped you better yourself and thank those instructors
(whether living or dead) who have shared their knowledge and insights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then ask yourself how you are giving back
to these instructors by continuing to “show up, work out”, continue to, if do
already, or find ways to give back to your community. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-style: normal; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p> </o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Regards,<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 15.6pt;">Kelly</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 15.6pt;"><i>After asked why we practice
the reply was “To better ourselves” ~ Mr. Ui Jung Kim, 6th Degree Black Belt,
Founder of the Han Moo Kwan Club, Sunnyvale, CA</i><em><span lang="EN" style="color: black; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-74883097814490490152023-01-01T22:40:00.001-08:002023-01-01T22:40:32.230-08:00Getting the Most Out of Your Training --- Chief Instructor's Blog January 2023<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: ; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto !msorm; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto !msorm; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-prop-change: Kelly 20221127T1617;">As we enter the
new year, you might be thinking about how to get more or the most out of your
training in the upcoming year. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: ; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto !msorm; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto !msorm; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-prop-change: Kelly 20221127T1617;"><span style="color: black;">What’s obvious
is to practice, practice and practice. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: ; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto !msorm; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto !msorm; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-prop-change: Kelly 20221127T1617;"><span style="color: black;">However, sometimes
we feel we have limited time for practice, so in that case, how can you get the
most out of your training?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Below are
some things you may want to consider.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: ; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto !msorm; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto !msorm; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-prop-change: Kelly 20221127T1617;">1. Be Present</p><ol start="1" type="1">
</ol>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: ; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black;">While practicing, whether on your
own or in class, be present.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Focus on
what you are doing 100 percent of the time and do not let other things distract
you while you are training.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: ; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">2. Be consistent</p><ol start="2" type="1">
</ol>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: ; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black;">When practicing, be consistent and precise
with each technique Do not just go through the motions, but practice doing each
technique consistently every time.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: ; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">3. Let go of your ego</p><ol start="3" type="1">
</ol>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: ; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black;">Do not compare yourself to anyone
else whether a fellow student or some martial artist you watched on TV or in a video.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are more concerned about how you look compared
to others, the less you are focused, are being consistent, and if working with
a partner, the more likely you will get injured.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: ; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">4. Enjoy the journey</p><ol start="4" type="1">
</ol>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: ; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black;">While it is useful to have goals,
enjoy the journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Enjoy if you improve
1% over 6 months or even if on a plateau.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some days you may feel like you have gone backwards, and that is okay, it
is part of the journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Enjoy the
learning and the perseverance of just continuing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It may be that your physical techniques are
not improving much but your understanding of the techniques, when to use them,
or underlining principles of the art form have improved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is all part of improving, so enjoy it.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: ; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">5. Mindset</p><ol start="5" type="1">
</ol>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: ; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black;">Have a positive mindset.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even if not doing your favorite drill or practicing
your favorite hyung, tell yourself you like it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is amazing when thinking positively how much easier and effective
your techniques are when compared to negative thoughts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: ; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">6. Play
with your techniques outside training</p><ol start="6" type="1">
</ol>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: ; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black;">Find ways to practice in your everyday
activities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whether that is practicing
your even, deep breathing, using low side kicks to open doors, breaking down
boxes with spear hand or knuckle punches, practicing your balance (you can
easily shift to one leg while standing around talking and no one would know you
are practicing balancing on one leg), practicing your positive mindset,
practicing extending and holding your energy (for example, in a crowded mall to
make an easy path to walk through), etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are hundreds of ways to practice
martial arts techniques or principles in day-to-day activities and tasks.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal" style="background: ;"><span style="color: black;">As we enter 2023, I encouraged each of you to use the above
or come up with your own ways to get the most out of your training.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal" style="background: ;"><span style="color: black;">Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal" style="background: ;"><span style="color: black;">Kelly<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="background: ; color: black;">“The
successful warrior is the average man, with laser-like focus.” ~ Bruce Lee,
(1940 –1973) American-born Chinese Hong Kong martial artist, actor, and founder
of Jeet Kune Do </span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 21.0pt;"><em><span style="color: black; font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p> </o:p></span></em></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-29075777633874836732022-12-01T23:02:00.000-08:002022-12-01T23:02:04.109-08:00Karate Concepts from Choki Motobu --- Chief Instructor's Blog December 2022<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black;">Choki Motobu, founder
of Motobu-ryū, was one of Okinawa's greatest early twentieth century karate
masters.</span><span style="color: black;"> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Choki Motobu students documented in Japanese a
1978 essay "Motobu Choki Sensei Goroku" (that was translated by Joe
Swift) which focuses on some of his concepts relating to karate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span>I will expand
on a few of the items discussed in the essay that resonated the most with me
and align with Han Moo Kwan principles and concepts. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><b><span style="color: black;">“Kamae is in the heart, not a
physical manifestation.”<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black;">Kamae is Japanese for “stance” or “posture”.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While we practice it is important that
your stances are solid and correct. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I believe
what Choki Motobu was referring to is that your attitude and intent is more important.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your stances and techniques can be technically
perfect but if your attitude and intent is not correct, your techniques will not
be effective.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><b><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">“One
must develop the ability to read how much striking power any person has in one
glance.”<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black;">Learning to read your attacker and understand
their strengths and weaknesses quickly is an essential skill.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We practice this skill as part of learning the
energy side of martial arts. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><b><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">“One
does not have to take care to block every single attack by an opponent with weak
striking power.”<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">If the
strike is not going to do you harm or out of range, etc., then you should not
waste time and energy to block it or chase it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In this case, you should just attack
the opponent, but ensure you are protecting any vulnerable spots (e.g., your
head).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><b><span style="color: black;">“One must develop the ability to
deflect attack even from behind.”<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black;">All attacks are not going to be directly
in front of you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, first you need to
be aware of what is going on behind you and to the side of you as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And if the attack is from behind, you need to
be able to move and throw techniques that are effective.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><b><span style="color: black;">“In a real confrontation, more
than anything else strike to the face first, as this is most effective.”<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black;">By striking the face (or head),
first you are attacking the body’s “control system” (i.e. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the brain), and if can stun the brain, the
body will shut down. I will expand this to attack vulnerable spots first
(knees, groin, etc.).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The idea is to finish
a fight quickly, so the most vulnerable spots are best to attack first.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><b><span style="color: black;">“Kicks are not all that
effective in a real confrontation.”<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black;">I believe this statement is more about
full kicks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most fights are close in, so
you will not necessarily be able to execute a full kick, but knee strikes, stamping
side kicks to the shin or foot could be very effective.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><b><span style="color: black;">“One must try and block the
attack at its source (Block not the attacking hand but deeper on the arm).”<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black;">To me, this concept aligns with not
focusing on the actual part of the body the assailant is attacking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you focus on just the attack, you may miss
other things going on (use of other weapons). And if you attack the body or the
source, you are more likely to do more damage and end the altercation quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or this concept may also be indicating to block
a strike or kick at the position where it exerts the least amount of
power.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">(</span><span style="color: black;">e.g., haymaker
punch is easiest to stop if you block the upper arm just a few inches down from
the shoulder.)<b><span style="background: lime; mso-highlight: lime;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><b><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">“The
blocking hand must be able to become the attacking hand in an instant. Blocking
with one hand and then countering with the other is not true bujutsu. Real
bujutsu presses forward and blocks and counters in the same motion.”<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">This also combines
a few concepts for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One is blocks are
attacks (“block to break”), so in essence you should be always attacking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In addition, this concept for me also emphasizes
the need to continually attack until you feel safe and not stop until
then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In addition, this emphasizes the use
of both hands simultaneously versus one technique then the other.</span><span style="background: lime; mso-highlight: lime;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><b><span style="color: black;">“When punching to the face one must thrust as if punching
through the head.”<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black;">For every technique you throw you should be thinking of going
through the target.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we practice
against one another you must use control to not cause bodily harm to your fellow
student, but against bags, shields and definitely against an attacker, you
should always be thinking of going through their body (head, spine, etc.) <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><b><span style="color: black;">“When blocking kicks, one must block as if trying to break
the opponent’s shin.”<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black;">As stated in class over and over, with every “blocking technique”
your intent should be block to break.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Our art form is for self-defense with the goals to end the altercation
quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To do so you must disable your attacker
quickly, which means causing damage with every technique and to do that you
must block to break.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black;">As you study or read about the masters of traditional martial
arts, you will find Han Moo Kwan is very much aligned with their concepts. And
given these concepts have survived hundreds of years, for me, it validates what
we are studying and practicing. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span face=""Verdana",sans-serif" style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Kelly<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: black;">“The more understanding you
have about Karate, the less you need to change or modify it.” ~ Tsuguo Sakumoto (1947
– present), <span>former World Karate Champion and 9<sup>th</sup>
degree in Ryuei-ryu Karate</span><o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 21pt;"><em><span style="color: black; font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p> </o:p></span></em></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-25547026203237557522022-11-01T19:29:00.003-07:002022-11-01T19:29:45.237-07:00Some Key Non-Physical Self-Defense Strategies and Tactics --- Chief Instructor's Blog November 2022<p> </p><p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">While it has been said and written many times, it is worth
stating again.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Han Moo Kwan
philosophy and its strategies are based on an honorable fighter art with its
origins dating back hundreds of years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This fighting art is used <i><u>strictly</u></i> for self-defense and
for <i><u>improving oneself physically and spiritually</u></i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Therefore, if options do not exist to avoid
confrontation and conflict, we teach members how to physically defend themselves
using the Han Moo Kwan Tae Kwon Do philosophy and its strategies and tactics.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">So, with that said, what
options are there to avoid confrontation and conflict?</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">The number one rule of self-defense is “Do not get chosen”.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are a few major concepts this encompasses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One concept is being aware of your surroundings
and avoid situations that put you at risk, such as walking alone in a dark area
or entering the subway car that is completely packed versus one that is less crowded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or the flip side, entering a subway car with
only one other person that makes you uncomfortable versus riding one with a few
other people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another one is simply do not
visibly carry anything of interest to an attacker. For example, if you are carrying
a $1400 iPhone down the street visibly in your hand, you are more at risk to be
robbed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are carrying a $2000
purse and it is dangling down your side, you are at risk of being robbed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are wearing expensive jewelry out in public
especially crowded streets or public transit, you are at risk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When my husband and I travel, we do not wear
our more expensive wedding rings but wear an inexpensive, plain band.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Another simple tactic of not getting chosen is to ensure
your home is well lit at night, whether you have interior and or exterior
lights on timers or sensors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An intruder
will most likely break into a dark home then one that has lights on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or place a large dog bowl with water in the
backyard that looks scuffed up and well used.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>An intruder will most likely avoid a house with a dog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Also, those that appear to have more confidence are less
likely to be chosen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This means walking with
your head up and with confidence. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">It also means being aware of your surroundings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By looking around and not staring and/or texting
on your phone, for example, in public places you are less likely to be the target.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Another concept is keeping safe distances or avoid being in
a disadvantaged position.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Again, this
may mean avoiding crowded areas, if possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Or if in a more crowded place, position yourself to limit an attacker’s
angles of attack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As an example, if in a
crowded subway, you have your back to a wall so you can see what’s in front of
you and therefore do not have to worry about what’s behind you and limit someone’s
opportunities to rob or attack you.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Another important concept is to trust your instincts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This does not mean to be paranoid, but if
your gut tells you the situation does not feel right, trust it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are walking down the street and there
is a person coming towards you that makes you feel uneasy, cross the street or
go into the nearest store.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are going
into an elevator that has another person or people and the you feel uneasy,
take the next elevator or take the stairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This does not mean you are being a coward or afraid…this is simply avoiding
a potential bad situation. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In Gavin de
Becker’s book “The Gift of Fear: And Other Survival Signals That Protect Us
from Violence” he provides many examples of reading signs and testing your
instinct. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;">Other means to avoid confrontation can take the form of
verbal tactics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A few simple tactics
include, if someone is confronting you simply state the police have been called
and are coming, even if this is not true.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Do not say you will call the police, but say the police have already
been called.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An attacker is less likely
to stick around if they think the police are on their way. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another verbal tactic if feeling unsafe is to
state, “I do not know you”, even if this is not true.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most bystanders will not want to get involve
in a domestic dispute but are willing to help someone against a stranger.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;">This is not a complete list, but illustrates there are many
tactics and techniques besides the physical to keep yourself safe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And while we spend time practicing the physical
techniques, if you are truly interested in self-defense, you should also study
and learn the non-physical tactics as well.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">Kelly<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: black;">“The supreme
art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting.” ~ Sun Tzu (6th Century BC),
Chinese General, military strategist, and author of The Art of War</span><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">References:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 21pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">The Gift of Fear: And Other Survival Signals That Protect
Us from Violence by Gavin de Becker<span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 21pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><em><span style="color: black; font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span></em><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">The Art of War by
Sun Tzu<em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></span></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-73357528203078716672022-10-02T22:53:00.002-07:002022-10-02T22:53:59.637-07:00Evolution of Performing Hyung ---- Chief Instructor Blog October 2022<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin-bottom: 15pt; mso-prop-change: Kelly 20221002T0956; vertical-align: baseline;"><em><span style="font-style: normal;"><o:p> </o:p></span></em><em><span style="font-style: normal;">As
you learn and get more adept at techniques, the techniques will evolve. What your techniques look and feel like as a
belt will be different than when you are a green belt and definitely different
as a black belt. </span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin-bottom: 15pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><em><span style="font-style: normal;">I talked about a few specific
techniques and how they evolve over time in previous blogs:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2012/07/evolution-of-attack-punch-chief.html">Attack
Punch</a> in the July 2012 blog, <a href="https://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2012/08/evolution-of-cat-stance-chief.html">Cat
Stance</a> in the August 2012 blog, <a href="https://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2012/09/evolution-of-front-kick-chief.html">Front
Kick</a> in the September 2012 blog, and <a href="https://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2013/09/evolution-of-knife-hand-chief.html">Knife
Hand</a> in the September 2013 blog.<o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin-bottom: 15pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><em><span style="font-style: normal;">The same is true for Hyung and
not just the evolution of the techniques themselves and it is not just that you
know more Hyung, but how you perform the Hyung will actually evolve. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And while it may not look much different for someone
just observing, you will be able to tell a difference in how it feels.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Specifically, what should be different is the
timing and the intent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will look at each
of these in more detail.<o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin-bottom: 15pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><em><span style="font-style: normal;"><u>Timin</u>g<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin-bottom: 15pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><em><span style="font-style: normal;">In the beginning, we teach belts
to keep the timing of each technique consistent as if you were performing to a metronome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact, we had a black belt many years ago
that actually used to bring to class a metronome for students to practice to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We also have belts perform hyung by
breaking down each piece: prep, move, set, execute, prep, move, set, execute.<o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin-bottom: 15pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><em><span style="font-style: normal;">As a blue belt you should be performing
that “Prep” technique as you start to move versus one then the other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And the timing between the set and execute should
be fractions of a second from what it was as a belt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By performing the hyung this way, the time to
perform the hyung should be almost half the time as before.<o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin-bottom: 15pt; mso-prop-change: Kelly 20221002T1005; vertical-align: baseline;"><em><span style="font-style: normal;">In
addition, as you continue to advance, the timing should vary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For example, you may have two very fast techniques
then slower for the third technique and fourth technique.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or you may accelerate the techniques as you perform
a sequence of 3 to 4 techniques.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the
beginning you may just be playing with the timing to determine what feels right
to go fast, fast, slow, or accelerate through multiple techniques.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eventually, the variation in timing is
aligned with the “self-defense story” you are envisioning while you are going through
the hyung.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin-bottom: 15pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><em><u><span style="font-style: normal;">Intent<o:p></o:p></span></u></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin-bottom: 15pt; mso-prop-change: Kelly 20221002T1006; vertical-align: baseline;"><em><span style="font-style: normal;">As
part of the “self-defense story”, you are performing techniques with application
and intent that may be different than what you were originally taught even though
the techniques look the same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What does
this mean? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is easier to describe when
discussing specific techniques.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s
start with hook punch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin-bottom: 15pt; mso-prop-change: Kelly 20221002T1006; vertical-align: baseline;"><em><span style="font-style: normal;">A
hook punch can be performed where you are focused on those first two knuckles to
punch an assailant’s lower ribs or kidneys, or the forearm is used to strike an
assailant’s sternum, or throat, or it could be used as part of a hip throw.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each of these three variations are a different
intent although they all look the same to someone observing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now let’s look at high block.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin-bottom: 15pt; mso-prop-change: Kelly 20221002T1006; vertical-align: baseline;"><em><span style="font-style: normal;">A
high block can be performed to break an overhead strike, or performed as an
upper hammer fist to strike an assailant’s cheek bone, or even performed using the
knuckles as an upper punch to strike an assailant’s face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Again, while the intent may be different, the
technique itself should look the same regardless of what part of the arm you
are using to strike or what target you are aiming for.<o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin-bottom: 15pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><em><span style="font-style: normal;">So, as you can imagine there now
can be hundreds if not thousands of variations of performing one hyung as you
vary timing and intent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can now
better understand why Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shotokan Karate has said,
“</span></em><span style="color: #524739;">In the past, it was
expected that about three years were required to learn a single kata, and
usually even an expert of considerable skill would only know three, or at most
five, kata.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 14pt; margin-bottom: 15pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #524739;">If this is all new to
you, I would start at the beginning with Kibon Hyung and focus on the timing to
perform the technique with the original intent you were taught.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then when you are comfortable with that,
you should start performing the hyung with different intents for each technique
sticking with one variation at a time until you are comfortable then moving on
to another variation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You will never get
bored with practicing hyung if you do this.</span><em><span style="font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal;">Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal;">Kelly<o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal;"><o:p> </o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><i>“Karate
is a lifetime study.” ~ Kenwa Mabuni (1889-1952), Founder <span style="color: #202122;">of Shitō-ryū Karate.</span><o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal;"><o:p> </o:p></span></em></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-91934645073430659062022-09-02T16:44:00.000-07:002022-09-02T16:44:04.672-07:00The Twelve Rules of the Sword (Part 2) --- Chief Instructor's Blog September 2022<p> </p><p style="line-height: 15.6pt; text-align: left;"><em><span style="color: #29303b; font-weight: normal;">Note: In these two two-part series, I discuss 12 rules (teachings)
from sword fighting principles from the 16<sup>th</sup> century. This first
part discussed the first six rules and this second part discusses the other six
rules.</span></em></p><div><em><span style="color: #29303b; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></em></div>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">As stated in part one of this two-part blog, the principles
the masters taught and conveyed to their students even hundreds of years ago are
still very relevant today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An example of
that is <em><span style="font-style: normal;">The Twelve Rules of the Sword taught
at </span></em><span>the Itto School in the 16<sup>th</sup>
century. The remaining six rules are discussed below.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">7.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Heart of a
Fox<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">This rule is to “not
allow yourself to doubt.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If an assailant
attacks you, any doubt, hesitation, or being cautious can lead to severe injury
or worse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, you must train so you are
confident in your techniques mechanically and you should always have an
attitude and intent that your techniques are effective.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I discussed training with attitude and intent
in my October 2017 blog, <a href="http://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2017/10/training-mind-through-attitudeintent.html">Training
The Mind Through Attitude/Intent</a>. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">8.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pine Tree in the
Wind<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">This rule is “to not get trapped by the opponent’s rhythm”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
discuss this a lot when practicing sparring to not match an opponent’s timing
but to be the one controlling the timing and to not make it predictable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We use drills like Mr. Kim’s Timing Drill to accelerate
timing to throw an opponent off or practice variable timing while practicing hyung
so timing is not predictable. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">9.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Ground
Beneath Your Feet<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">This rule states “Depending on the situation or the strategy,
you may be employing, retreating or advancing .., despite its negative
connotations, may be the best way to respond to an opponent.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We practice moving forward and backwards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What is key when “retreating” is continuously
enforcing that forward energy and intent, so while it may appear to be you are
at a disadvantage, you are not.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">10.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Focus/Preventing
Extraneous Thoughts<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">This rule is “to not allow distracting thoughts to plague
your mind”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being completely present in
the moment is a critical principle of self-defense. This principle is the same
as the martial arts mindset known as Fudoshin - the immovable mind. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I discuss how to train your Fudoshin mind in
my January 2020 blog, <a href="http://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2020/01/training-martial-artists-four-mindsets.html">Training
the Martial Artist's Four Mindsets</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">11.[Physical] Interval Between You and Your Opponent<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">This rule is to study and learn the distance relative to your
opponent and apply it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For me this also
means understanding your strengths or disadvantages against an opponent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For example, if I am sparring against a taller
person, I will tend to move in closer where I can still effectively use my legs
and arms, but they are unable to use their legs. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also means paying attention to any timing
or tells they have that you can take advantage of.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have seen some students slightly tap the ground
before launch a kick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was a tell
that could be taken advantage of if I move in right as I saw the tap the on floor
and jammed the kick <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">12.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lingering Mind<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">This rule is “to strike without any lingering thoughts or
doubts”. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The rule concludes “If you
entered a hundred battles and struck this point a hundred times, never doubt
you will achieve victory a hundred times.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This rule is very much related to the Heart of a Fox and Focus/Preventing
Extraneous Thoughts rule.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being
confident (not arrogant) but confident with no doubts is also a critical
concept in self-defense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The minute you start
doubting yourself is the minute you can go from beating your assailant to
losing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we teach board breaks, one
of the things we ask is if you think you can break the board.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If there is a lot of hesitancy, then we waited
for another day to try to break the board.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Mindset is critical including the attitude/intent to do damage with each
strike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This principle is the same as the
martial arts mindset known as Zanshin - the remaining mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I discuss how to train your Zanshin mind in
my January 2020 blog, <a href="http://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2020/01/training-martial-artists-four-mindsets.html">Training
the Martial Artist's Four Mindsets</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: #1d2228;">Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: #1d2228;">Kelly<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: #1d2228;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Once
you understand the way broadly, you can see it in all things.”</span></em><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black;"> <em>~ Miyamoto
Musashi (c. 1584 –1645) - famous Japanese swordsman, the author of The Book of
Five Rings</em><o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p> </o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">References:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">The Twelve Rules of
the Sword by Ito Ittosai, Translated by Eric Shahan, 2018 </span><em><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-43020346184871878092022-08-02T22:27:00.003-07:002022-08-02T22:27:33.938-07:00The Twelve Rules of the Sword (Part 1) --- Chief Instructor's Blog August 2022<p> </p><p></p><p style="line-height: 15.6pt; text-align: left;"><em><span style="color: #29303b; font-weight: normal;">Note: In this two-part series, I discuss 12 rules (teachings)
from sword fighting principles from the 16<sup>th</sup> century. This first
part discusses the first six rules and the second part discusses the other six
rules.</span></em></p><p style="line-height: 15.6pt; text-align: left;"><em><span style="color: #29303b; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></em></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">The Masters of the past really understood the very basic principles
of self-defense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every time I come
across literature from a hundred or hundreds of years ago, the principles the
masters taught and conveyed to their students then is still very relevant
today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My latest discovery is <i>The</i>
<em>Twelve Rules of the Sword.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></em><em><span style="font-style: normal;">The Twelve Rules of the Sword were 12 rules taught at
</span></em><span>the Itto School of Sword Fighting
that was founded by Ito Ittosai, a master swordsman in the 16<sup>th</sup> century.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><i><o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">1. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Two Places To Watch Your Opponent<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">This rule states that “though you are
keeping all of your opponents in your field of vision, there are two points you
should focus on.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since this was sword
fighting, the two points mentioned are the tip of the sword and the hands sine
it moves the sword. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, from an HMK perspective,
this principle still applies – you should never focus on just one thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You need to ensure you see with your peripheral
vision around you and should not just focus on the weapons of your assailant (whether
that is a weapon they have or their hands/legs).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You should also focus elsewhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If your assailant is not holding a weapon, I would
say their eyes are also a good place to focus as well as center of the body, since
those areas are probably the best tell of their next move.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they are holding a weapon, their hands are
a good place to look, but so are their eyes as well. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><em><span style="color: black; font-style: normal;">2.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Cutting Down<o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><em><span style="color: black; font-style: normal;">This rules as translated, is all about split
second timing and how that timing is critical. This is true then as it is
today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being able to react instantly and
with a timing to disrupt or to land a strike before an opponent does is a critical
aspect of self-defense. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><em><span style="color: black; font-style: normal;">3.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The Strategy Near and Far<o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><em><span style="color: black; font-style: normal;">This rule as translated is “Creating a situation
where the enemy feels their striking distance is far while your own striking distance
feels near.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The intent of this rule is
to ensure you are at a position of advantage relative to our opponent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From an HMK perspective these would be concepts
such as never be directly between two assailants or be forced in to a position against
a wall or corner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><em><span style="color: black; font-style: normal;">4. Horizontal, Vertical, Above, and Below<o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><em><span style="color: black; font-style: normal;">The essence of this is to strike or
counter from opposite directions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For example,
“If attack comes from above, respond to it from below”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From an HMK perspective this is aligned with the
Get Off the Line concept we teach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
we get off the line, we are taking a different angle of attack versus straight
on. <o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><em><span style="color: black; font-style: normal;">In addition, this rule is also about being
centered in thought and “senses free to detect attack from anywhere”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is
a similar concept we teach in HMK to being grounded, not overcommitted, and not
assume where the attack is coming from and being able to quickly react and move.
<o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><em><span style="color: black; font-style: normal;">5. The Color Of Things<o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><em><span style="color: black; font-style: normal;">This rule has a couple principles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One is to avoid labeling your assailant, meaning
not to assume anything about your assailant or try to analyze them in
anyway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You should assume they have
skill and are dangerous if they are attacking you. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, the rule states that if an assailant
shouts or calls something out to you, do not try to figure out its meaning – it
is a distraction and “you are putting yourself in danger”. <o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><em><span style="color: black; font-style: normal;">6. The Eyes of the Heart<o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">This rule states that “you should not look
at the opponent with your eyes, but view them with your spirit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you look with your eyes, you may get distracted,
however, by looking with your mind you remain focused”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We teach similar principles in HMK that you should
not stare or be focused just with your eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In HMK we also, at an advanced level, teach reading an assailant’s energy
which I believe is the same intent meant here when stating you should view with
the spirit or mind.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: black;">In Part 2, I will discuss the other six
rules.</span><em><span style="color: black; font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></p><p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: #1d2228;">Regards,</span></p>
<p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: #1d2228;">Kelly</span></p><p class="yiv5259017635msonormal"><span style="color: #1d2228;"><br /></span></p>
<p><em><span style="color: #010101;">“Perceive that which
cannot be seen with the eye.”</span></em><i><span style="color: #010101;"> <em>~
Miyamoto Musashi (c. 1584 –1645) - famous Japanese swordsman, the author of The
Book of Five Rings</em></span></i><span style="color: #010101;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">References:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">The Twelve Rules of
the Sword by Ito Ittosai, Translated by Eric Shahan, 2018 </span><em><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></p><br /><p></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-38816154767489625702022-07-01T10:06:00.010-07:002022-07-01T10:08:53.323-07:00Stick To The Fundamentals ---- Chief Instructor July 2022<p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></em></p><p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">I had a basketball coach in high school that was a stickler
for the fundamentals, the building blocks.
Without the basics, not only could you not perform well, but trying to
do the fancy moves more likely just ended up making you look silly or actually
get yourself injured.</span></em></p><p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">This concept applies to martial arts as well. The fundamentals, the basics, are core to everything
we do. Without a strong foundation in
the basics, you cannot move on to more advanced techniques, and if you tried,
you will probably just end up hurting yourself. And the fact of the matter is advanced
techniques are just extensions of the basics.</span></em></p><p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">And while some may think basics are just the basics
techniques you were taught the first six months of training; the fundamentals include
the attributes of those basics themselves. Since that may not be clear, let’s discuss a
few.<o:p></o:p></span></em></p><p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> </span></em></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; mso-prop-change: Kelly 20220626T1026; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">1.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></em><!--[endif]--><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Formal Cat Stance key attributes
include<o:p></o:p></span></em></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Hips and shoulders square; back straight <o:p></o:p></span></em></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Head up, chin level <o:p></o:p></span></em></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Front knee points in the forward direction, knee above ankle<o:p></o:p></span></em></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Stance locked into hip<o:p></o:p></span></em></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">All body weight will be on rear leg; no weight on the leading foot<o:p></o:p></span></em></li>
</ul><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> </span></em></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">2.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></em><!--[endif]--><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> Forward punch fundamentals include a strong horse
stance with a proper front punch. </span></em></p><p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The key attributes of a strong horse stance include: <o:p></o:p></span></em></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Feet approximately twice shoulder width; parallel to each other, <o:p></o:p></span></em></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Knees bent approximately 45 degrees from horizontal, <o:p></o:p></span></em></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Knees over the ankle pointing straight ahead, <o:p></o:p></span></em></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Body weight evenly distributed on both feet, <o:p></o:p></span></em></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Hips and shoulders square; back straight, <o:p></o:p></span></em></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Head up, chin level<o:p></o:p></span></em></li>
</ul><p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> </span></em></p><p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The key attributes of a front punch include: <o:p></o:p></span></em></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Proper closed fist<o:p></o:p></span></em></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Arm stays in contact with side of body throughout motion; driving
from the elbow<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Punching arm elbow remains slightly bent at impact<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Wrists flat at impact;
first two knuckles pointed at target<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> </span></em></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">3.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></em><!--[endif]--><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Knife Hand fundamentals include a
strong attack stance with a proper froward open hand inward strike. </span></em></p><p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The key attributes of a strong attack stance attack
include:<o:p></o:p></span></em></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Hips
and shoulders square; back
straight<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Knees and feet point straight ahead<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Front knee bent approximately 35 degrees
from horizontal and above the ankle<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Body
weight evenly distributed on both feet<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Rear leg is locked<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Stance is approximately twice as wide as
it is long<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> </span></em></p><p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The key attributes of the forward, open hand inward
strike include: <o:p></o:p></span></em></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Palm
is flat; tips of the fingers slightly bent; thumb tucked in <b><o:p></o:p></b></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Elbow remains
close to the body and downward throughout the striking muton<b><o:p></o:p></b></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Palm
is forward and rotates upward just before impact<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Elbow
remains bent at contact<em><b><span style="font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></em></li>
</ul><p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> </span></em></p><p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">For example, without a proper cat stance, you will
not be able to throw a jump kick with any force, turns will be wobbly, sparring
ineffective, you will not be able perform more advanced techniques like a sweeping
attack stance. And the list goes on and
on and on.</span></em></p><p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">So, it is not enough to just practice hundreds or
thousands of techniques in cat stance if you are not focused on and ensuring
the fundamentals, those key attributes are part of the practice. </span></em></p><p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">So, if it has been a while since you focused on the
fundamentals of techniques, why not start today? Make it a priority to commit to mastering the
fundamentals.</span></em></p><p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal;">Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></em></p><p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal;">Kelly</span></em></p><p class="MsoNormal">
</p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: #333333;">It is not the number of Kata
you know, but the SUBSTANCE of the Kata you have acquired." </span></i><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">~ </span></em><em>Jitsumi Gogen Yamaguchi (1909-1989), Gogen
Yamaguchi (1909-1989), Grandmaster of Japanese Karate-dō and founder of the
International Karate-dō Gōjū Kai Association</em><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></p><br /><p></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-85293178952538006292022-06-02T22:29:00.004-07:002022-06-02T22:29:48.411-07:00Lessons From Bruce Lee ---- Chief Instructor Blog June 2022<p><span><br /></span></p><p><span>I ran across an article
from Black Belt Magazine on-line, </span><a href="https://blackbeltmag.com/learn-the-most-important-martial-arts-lessons-bruce-lee-taught-from-his-top-disciples">Learn
the Most Important Martial Arts Lessons Bruce Lee Taught — From His Top
Disciples!</a><span> [Ref. 1].</span> <span>The article describes
lessons (concepts/principles) from Bruce Lee as described by several of his
students.</span> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span>I will expand on
a few of the items discussed in the article that resonated the most with me and
align with Han Moo Kwan principles and concepts.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span>Off the bat in the
article is the lesson: self-expression
through self-discovery. If you have done
any research on Bruce Lee and his philosophies, you will know he was a believer
in expressing the art form, and that expression comes from self-discovery. An instructor
can state concepts, ideas and be explicit in what one could or should do, but a
martial artist must really take those concepts and expand on them through self-study
to truly discovery how to apply the techniques in ways that are most effective for
them (which can be situational dependent or even change as you age). In Han Moo
Kwan we describe this as an aspect of “Making It Your Own”. I described this concept in more detail in my
September 2014 blog, titled “</span><em><span style="color: #29303b; font-style: normal;"><a href="https://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2014/09/">Making
it Your Own</a>”</span></em><span>. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span>Another lesson described
in the article is to “Take what is offered to you”. </span> <span>For me, the message here is, is you should not
have a preconceived notion on techniques to use but take advantage of the opening
or the vulnerability created by your assailant.</span>
<span>A great example from the article is “If your opponent steps toward you,
he's “offering" you his front leg to attack”.</span> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span>As I have
discussed in several blogs, Han Moo Kwan is to be used for self-defense only and
therefore one should avoid physical altercation if one can.</span> <span>And if you feel you have no other choice than
use physical techniques you should go all out until you feel safe.</span> <span>Bruce Lee described this as “pre-emption.” </span> <span>As described in the article, “Basically, Lee’s
assertion that you should intercept aggression in stages (mentally, vocally and
physically) is analogous to the combatives approach of first, being avoidant by
using situational awareness; second, warning off by taking some type of early
physical action to avoid an altercation; and finally, in the most threatening
circumstances, launching your attack before your adversary’s attack is fully
manifested.”</span> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span>The last piece I
think is extremely important and leads to another concept that Bruce Lee called
“interception”. </span> <span>A key to interception is
to “interfere with the assailant’s attack”.</span>
<span>In Han Moo Kwan, we refer to this concept as blocking to break. </span> <span>Blocking to break will disrupt and interfere with
the assailant’s attack.</span> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span>As described in the
article, Lee also stressed the importance of a method he called “alive
training.” </span> <span>Basically, one must train in situations
to stress yourself that align with more realistic situations.</span> <span>This is why we include sparring and more dynamic
self-defense to our training.</span> <span>As described
in the article, “Particular moves and strategies are very important, but the
most difficult and immediate obstacle to overcome in a real fight is the
pressure and resistance offered by the attacker. If you don’t practice dealing
with them, you won’t develop the ability to automatically adjust to the myriad
of obstacles that a real opponent will present.”</span> <span>I also discussed in two separate blogs how to
better prepare yourself for these pressured situation in two blogs from April
and May 2018, titled “ </span><a href="https://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2018/04/">How To
Physically Prepare For Being Under Stress</a><span> “ and “</span><a href="https://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2018/05/">How To
Mentally Prepare For Being Under Stress</a><span>”.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span>Bruce Lee is considered
one of the greatest martial artists of all time. For me this is not just because
of his physical ability but because of his depth of understanding of the true essence
of martial arts.</span> <span>His lessons are not applicable
to just his style but traditional martial arts in general and lessons for all those
who strive to understand martial arts.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal;">Regards,</span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal;">Kelly</span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>“Be self aware, rather than a repetitious robot.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>~ <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bruce
Lee, (1940 –1973) American-born Chinese Hong Kong martial artist, actor, and
founder of Jeet Kune Do</i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>References:</b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>1. </b><a href="https://blackbeltmag.com/learn-the-most-important-martial-arts-lessons-bruce-lee-taught-from-his-top-disciples">Learn
the Most Important Martial Arts Lessons Bruce Lee Taught — From His Top
Disciples! - Black Belt Magazine</a></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-87289100724477350562022-05-01T21:34:00.002-07:002022-05-01T21:34:52.112-07:00Self-defense Based Martial Arts Principles ---- Chief Instructor Blog May 2022<div><h3 style="margin: 0in;"><br /></h3>
<h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">Traditional self-defense based martial
arts may have very different techniques but their principles are quite
similar. To explore this, I will
describe some key principles of Wing Chun Kung Fu (whom Ip Man and his most
famous student Bruce Lee were practitioners) and how they are similar to Han
Moo Kwan’s principles.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></h3><div><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 14pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Center Line Principle</b></span></div>
<h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">If you draw a line down the center of your
body from forehead to groin, it passes through the vulnerable spots in the
body. So, it is critical to protect
those parts of your body. In Han Moo
Kwan, we accomplish this by using a fighting cat stance (not squaring off to an
assailant so they do not have a direct line to all of our most vulnerable
spots, keeping one hand high and one hand low at all times, and using cat stance
for more mobility). </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></h3><div><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">In addition, this principle indicates we
should be attacking those “center line” targets on our assailant. In Han Moo Kwan, we do teach attacking those
vulnerable targets are the most effective techniques. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></h3><div><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 14pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Simultaneous Attack and Defense Principle</b></span></div>
<h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">This can be thought of in two different
ways, and each way we apply in Han Moo Kwan.
One way, is that when we defend, we are offensive, we “block to
break”. In addition, we employ two hand
techniques where one hand “defends” while the second one attacks. For example, it can be techniques like the opening
move to Pyung Ahn 4, where in one application the “blocking arm” is defending
and protecting the head, while the striking hand is attacking the assailant’s
neck/throat. Or, in techniques like
Extended Spear Hand, where one the one hand traps the assailant, while the
spear hand attacks.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></h3><div><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 14pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Shortest and Most Direct Path Principle</b></span></div>
<h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">In Han Moo Kwan we teach linear techniques
because they are the shortest and most direct path. For example, our front kick uses a piston
action to be linear. There are also
other advantages to linear techniques.
For more information on why linear and how that principle is applied to
various techniques, see my February 2017 blog “</span><a href="http://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2017/02/why-linear-chief-instructors-blog.html"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Why Linear?”</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></h3><div><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 14pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Economy of Movement Principle</b></span></div>
<h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">This principle can also be thought of in a
couple different ways as applied to Han Moo Kwan. One way is short strikes. In Han Moo Kwan, one of our goals is to use
the shortest strikes possible while also generating the maximum amount of
power. In Han Moo Kwan, we also do not
go force against force. Instead, we take
advantage of the direction of an assailant’s power. For example, if our assailant is pulling us,
we do not pull back, we go in the direction they are pulling and attack them.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></h3><div><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 14pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Minimum Use of Brute Strength Principle</b></span></div>
<h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">In Han Moo Kwan, we accomplish this by
using energy and not muscle to be effective and efficient in our techniques. By doing so, we can be effective against
assailants that are much larger and physically stronger than we are. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></h3><div><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">Based on the above, while there are
different ways / techniques to accomplish the principles above, these
principles are foundational to any self-defense based martial art. I recommend thinking of these principles as
you practice and explore techniques.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></h3><div><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">Regards,</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></h3><div><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;">Kelly</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.25pt;"><i>“If size mattered, the elephant would be the king of the
jungle.” ~ Ip Man (1893-1972), A
Grandmaster of the martial art Wing Chun Kung Fu</i></p>
<div style="line-height: 14pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>References</b></span></div>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><b><!--[if !supportLists]-->1.</b><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"><b> </b> 1. </span><!--[endif]--><a href="https://www.wingchun.edu.au/wing-chun/core-concepts">Core Concepts |
International Wing Chun Academy</a>, retrieved 5/1/2022<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span>2.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> 2. </span></span><!--[endif]--><a href="https://www.wingchun.edu.au/wing-chun/five-principles">Five
Principles | International Wing Chun Academy</a>, retrieved 5/1/2022<em><span style="font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></p></div>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-37237559200197670692022-04-01T22:02:00.000-07:002022-04-01T22:02:00.537-07:00Why Bunkai is Important ---- Chief Instructor Blog April 2022<p><em><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal;"><br /></span></em></p><p><em><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal;">While
there are many other benefits for practicing and studying Han Moo Kwan Tae Kwan
Do, its main purpose is to be used strictly for self-defense.</span></em></p>
<h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">Therefore,
the functional applications of the techniques - the why, the meaning - are very
important to be effective in self-defense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Understanding why that technique and for what purpose a technique can be
used is a big part of learning Han Moo Kwan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If you do not understand the functional application of a technique, how effective
can you be if you were attacked?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
fact, if you do not know the best and most effective target or application of a
technique, then if you use it, you may damage yourself and worse case you will
be greatly harmed by the assailant you are defending yourself from because it
was not effective. </span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></h3><div><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><br /></span></em></div><div><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">The
concept of learning the applications was actually part of the letter of Ten
Precepts written in 1908 by Anko Itosu, considered by many to be the father of
modern karate. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wrote this letter when
he realized that it was time for karate to reach beyond the shores of Okinawa
to the heart of Japan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In his sixth precept,
Master Itosu writes: </span></em><span style="font-size: 12pt;">“Practice each of the techniques of karate repeatedly, the use of which
is passed by word of mouth. Learn the explanations well and decide when and in
what manner to apply them when needed. Enter, counter, release is the rule of releasing
hand (tori-te).” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>[Ref. 1]</span></div><div><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><br /></span></em></div><div><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><br /></span></em></div><div><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">The
process of analyzing the applications of the techniques with hyung (or kata in Japanese)
is called Bunkai in Japanese.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></em></div>
<h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><br /></span></em></h3><h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">Many
martial arts clubs and schools do discuss the why or practice Bunkai. You may
ask yourself why they would not?</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></h3>
<h3 style="line-height: 14pt; margin-left: 39pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><em><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></em><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">It may be because the intent of that martial art is not for
self-defense and therefore it is not important to learning that style. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></h3>
<h3 style="line-height: 14pt; margin-left: 39pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><em><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></em><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">It may be because their teaching is more of an Eastern style
where you are expected to just practice and practice and experiment on your won
until you figure it out yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></h3>
<h3 style="line-height: 14pt; margin-left: 39pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><em><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></em><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">Or it may be because they don’t know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many of the techniques, especially if not obvious,
were either only explain verbally, not discussed at all and even intentionally
kept hidden because of how harmful or damaging they could be. Some styles
actually had rules (Kaisai no genre [Ref. 2]) to extracting the applications of
the techniques and even the rules were kept hidden except to the most senior
students.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></h3>
<h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><br /></span></em></h3><h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">I
discuss more about learning the practical applications of the techniques in my March
2013 blog, “<a href="https://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2013/03/">Learn Techniques
Thoroughly</a>”. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also describe
studying practical application in the hyung in my September 2018 blog, “<a href="https://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2018/09/">Studying
Hyung</a>”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This blog also contains some
very good references that describe bunkai and how to unlock the applications.</span></em></h3>
<h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><br /></span></em></h3><h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">For
me, studying the why adds depth to my training and provides me a visual that helps
me put purpose and intent into my techniques that would not be there otherwise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And understanding the why helps aligns with my
learning style which enables me to pick up the techniques more effectively.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></h3>
<h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><br /></span></em></h3><h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">I
encourage you all to spend more time studying the why behind each technique. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></em><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></h3>
<h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><br /></span></em></h3><h3 style="line-height: 14pt;"><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">Regards,</span></em></h3><div><em><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">Kelly</span></em></div>
<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>“Our teachers did not give us a clear explanation of the
kata from old times. I must find the features and meaning of each form by my own
study and effort, by repeating the exercises of form through training.” ~
Tsuyoshi Chitose (<span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">1898-1984)</span>, founder of Chito-ryu Karate</i><em><span style="font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal;"><o:p> </o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><b><span style="font-style: normal;">References:</span></b></em></p>
1. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ank%C5%8D_Itosu">Ankō Itosu -
Wikipedia</a>, retrieved 4/1/2022<div>2. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaisai_no_genri">Kaisai no genri -
Wikipedia</a>, retrieved 4/1/2022</div>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2564565091212746329.post-36332189625969484892022-03-01T20:10:00.002-08:002022-03-01T20:10:49.836-08:00Is Body Memory Limiting You? - Chief Instructor's Blog March 2022<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #29303b;">Body memory is a very important
part of martial arts and some folks might say it is the key element to its
effective use, especially in a self-defense situation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #29303b;">By repeating techniques over and
over again they become second nature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
you can do techniques without thinking about it, </span>you are able to quickly
react<span style="color: #29303b;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This concept,
where the mind gets out of the way, is the results of hundreds of hours of
training and thousands of repetitions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
state of performing without the mind being in the way and your body just flows
easily from one technique to another is called Mushin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I explain Mushin in my November 2010 blog <a href="http://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2010/11/free-mind-be-like-water-chief.html">“Free
the Mind – Be Like Water”. </a><em><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></em></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #29303b;">This ability to move from
technique to technique without thinking is especially important when you are
stressed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you have to rely on thinking
when stressed, you will probably not perform well or too late to be effective.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I talk some more about the importance of how
you practice in my February 2018 blog, <a href="http://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2018/02/you-will-fight-how-you-practice-chief.html">“You
Will Fight How You Practice”. </a></span><em><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #29303b;">And while I do agree that body memory
is very important, it can also be limiting you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-style: normal;">So, what are the cons of
body memory?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One con is if your body memory
of the technique is poor. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In that case, that
technique will be in</span>effective</em><em><span style="font-style: normal;"> when
you need to use it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Over the next
several months now that we are practicing in person from time to time, it is important
for me to review your techniques to make sure they are still effective before
we practice with a partner or with full power against bags, shields etc. so no
one gets injured.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #29303b;">If bad habits or ineffective techniques
are now a body memory, you must re-program.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>First, you need to break down the technique, go slowly, think through
the movements, and relearn it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will
take hundreds and possibly thousands of repetitions correctly to get back to
the state where your techniques are effective as body memory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And this process must be repeated through basics,
hyung, self-defense, sparring, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
is why it is so important to check yourself from time to time to ensure you have
not introduced bad form or techniques.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And this is especially true now since over the last two years we have not
been able to practice working with partners, striking bags, etc. which gives you
instance feedback of the effectivity of your techniques.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #29303b;">The other con is if you have limited
your training.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What do I mean by this?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For example, if you only practice turning one
way, or you have not practiced transitioning from certain stances to another,
then you may get limited or stuck when you try to move that way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And if this happens, during a time you need
to protect yourself, it may result in you being vulnerable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #29303b;">This is why it is important to
expand your practice to ensure you can smoothly and easily:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #29303b; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">Throw all
techniques from all stances in all directions (upward, downward, forward,
outward).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #29303b; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">Perform the
hyung in a variety of ways - mirrored, in reverse order, starting from the
middle, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In my June 2020 blog <a href="http://hanmookwan-svl-chiefinstructor.blogspot.com/2020/06/adding-variety-to-practicing-hyung.html">“Adding
Variety to Practicing Hyung”</a><em>, </em><em><span style="font-style: normal;">I </span></em>describe 22 different ways to practice hyung.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #29303b; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">Transition
from any stance to any stance and in any direction (side to side, forward
and back, at different angles).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #29303b; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">Throw open
hand techniques with closed fist reciprocal and closed hand techniques with
open hands reciprocals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></li></ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #29303b;">Body memory may save your life
in a fight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #29303b;">But body memory based on practicing
precisely and correctly, moving in any direction, in any stance using any technique,
and changing stances from one to another with no limitations or boundaries <u><i>will</i></u>
save your life in a fight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #29303b;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #29303b;">Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 15.6pt;"><span style="color: #29303b;">Kelly</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: #333333;">“One must try, every day, to
expand one's limits."<em> ~ Masutatsu Oyama (1923-1994), karate master who
founded Kyokushinkai Karate</em></span><em><o:p></o:p></em></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p> </o:p></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p> </o:p></span></em></p>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09776134644389854306noreply@blogger.com0