My Favorite Boxing Movies
Whenever folks ask me about my favorite boxing movies, I tell them I have two in mind. The first is “Rocky II.” My other all-time favorite boxing movie is “Raging Bull” starring Robert DeNiro. Below is the trailer for “Raging Bull.” In my mind, this…
All Your Losses Lead Back To…….You
I’ve long believed that any loss, setback, or problem usually involves you. A quick caveat: I recognize that some losses or setbacks can be traced to external factors. But let’s set that caveat aside. Any time I’ve had a setback, loss or bad experience, I…
The Benefits of Solo Training
What are the benefits of solo training? Well, read on! Martial arts training can improve physical fitness, mental focus, and self-defence skills. While many prefer to train with partners or in class, solo training offers numerous benefits. In this blog post, I’ll explore four reasons…
Look in the Mirror. You Are Your Own Worst Enemy
“You are your own worst enemy” is a lesson I learned in the 8th grade. While in the 8th grade (1978), I played for the U.L. Light Junior High School football team in Barberton, Ohio, a town of 28,000. Our rival, Highland Junior High School,…
5 Reasons to Challenge Yourself
You see a mousetrap; I see free cheese and a f*****g challenge! -Scroobius Pip Pretty funny! However, Mr. Pip does have a point though. Life is full of challenges, and a mousetrap may seem an irresistible challenge to an adventurous mouse. In looking back at my life,…
Even “Perfect” Folks Struggle!
How many of you have been in a martial arts class and felt your partner was perfect? Or that a classmate seemed to have it all together? I would wager that we have had those thoughts about another person. But, as most of us know…
Pandemic Solo Training
Pandemic Solo Training? Hell, yes, it can be done! While it is true that FMAs are geared toward partner training, there are also tons of solo training possibilities during this pandemic. Forms and stick shadowboxing (carenza) come to mind. However, I have more than those…
Friday Recommendation #3
Before you delve into Sensei Ando’s 25-minute podcast about Bruce Lee’s famous quote, let’s refresh your memory first by watching this clip. If you are not able to view this video, click here. I have to admit that I have always been a big fan…
Get Out of the Comfort Zone!
Often, martial artists stay in their comfort zone and practice the same form or workout routine daily. They perform their favourite kata the same way several times a week. As a result, some get stuck in a rut. Why not challenge yourself? Why not get…
The Comparison Game
Several years ago, one of my students, who was in his mid 70s, stopped by my class and announced that he had decided to quit. I asked him for a reason, expecting him to cite a health or age-related issue. He surprised me by responding,…