Heeeeyo! Ontario announced today that they would ease capacity restrictions starting Thursday (February 17th) and abolish proof of vaccination requirements. However, Ontario has not said whether they will still require masks to be worn indoors. We should learn more in the next few days. In any case, parole is coming!

These moves make sense for two reasons. First, the Omicron surge is receding. Secondly, the vaccination rate in Canada is substantial. The last time I looked, 85% of the population in Ontario had had at least one jab. Moreover, Ontario has fully vaccinated 81% of the population.

Further, all capacity restrictions will soon be lifted for fitness facilities and martial arts schools. This is excellent news for martial arts schools that have survived three lockdowns (of varying severity). Full speed ahead!

Side note: I know the trucker protests in Canada have gotten international attention. Living here in Canada, I will say only this: the truckers have a legitimate beef and the right to protest. However, massively disrupting the daily lives of Ottawa citizens for three weeks and engaging in border blockades have hurt their cause. A famous quote by Benjamin Franklin comes to mind: “Guests, like fish, begin to smell after three days.” This is all I will say on this matter.

That said, I will hold off on private lessons until our parole arrives!

First, my mother-in-law is recovering from radiation treatment and experiencing side effects. We are concerned that she could be vulnerable for a short period for obvious reasons. In addition, even though I have a propane heater in the garage, it is only minimally effective during extreme cold weather events. Fortunately, the weather forecast looks much better starting this week. I hope that it stays that way!

I look forward to actual live training again! The last live private lesson was on December 15th, just before the Christmas break. So, it’s time to go!

Stick Fighting Tip

This tip is fairly obvious to experienced FMA players. For those who have no experience in Filipino Martial Arts, there are three ways to hit an opponent with your cane: (1) The cane; (2) the tip of the cane; and (3) the punyo (butt end).

Check out this video:

If you are not able to view this video, click here.

Let’s break it down.

First, hitting with a cane: this can be accomplished with a forehand, backhand, or downward (angle 12) strike at any level of the body (high, middle or low).

Secondly, the tip of the cane: can be done with either a stabbing motion or a follow-through (as depicted in the video).

Lastly, the punyo: This hitting method can be used in four directions. The forehand, the backhand, upward or downward strike.

Of course, any of those hitting methods can be combined in ways that are difficult to defend against. Hehehehe.

Inspiration for the Week

If you are not able to view the video, click here.

I love the message in this video. DON’T GIVE UP! No matter what obstacles you encounter in your life, keep going!

Additional Reading