Friday Recommendation #2
In December, I came across this podcast by Iain Abernethy, in which he discusses the differences between martial arts, fighting, and self-protection. He posits that losing the distinction among the three leads martial arts instructors astray. If you are not able to view this video,…
There Are No Fucking Secrets!
Recently, I read through a martial arts forum where a discussion on secret techniques was taking place. I did not join in the discussion as I was busy with errands. Also, I did not want to go down the rabbit hole with those convinced of…
Low High Palis Palis
The “Amazing Palis Palis Drill” post showcased a simple drill against angles 1 and 2. We will explore the low high version of this drill. Before we go any further, the basic premise of any flow drill is: don’t get hit. Now, there are several…
Keep It Simple Stupid!
During a lesson with Caiden, I pontificated on the importance of “K.I.S.S.” I explained to him that was shorthand for “Keep it simple, stupid!” The kid laughed, thinking that was the greatest quote he had ever heard. For the duration of the lesson, he repeated…
Strike First, Strike Hard, No Mercy
The first Karate Kid movie introduced us to Cobra Kai’s “Strike First, Strike Hard, No Mercy” slogan. While seeming over the top, upon reflection, there is depth to this slogan. Recently, my wife and I binge-watched Season 3 of Cobra Kai. We both loved it…
Forget About Winning or Losing
When folks roll on the mat or do stick free play, why do so many focus on “winning” or “losing?” The fact of the matter is that you’re going to win some and lose some. Instead of getting hung up on who prevailed, just focus…
Killer Concepts!
I recently posted on Facebook that I had updated my list of “Bamboo Spirit Concepts” to include two more, expanding the list from 20 to 22. I also reordered the list so that it makes more sense. Surprisingly, the response was robust; many requested a…
Under Lockdown, Part 2
Earlier this month, I published a post entitled “Under Lockdown.” I have to confess that it was a thought exercise and I honestly did not think we would be in the situation we are in today. Since that post, Ontario has imposed social distancing and…
Under Lockdown
Note: I wrote this on March 2nd, which seems so long ago. A lockdown has been imposed. Still, much of what I wrote below still applies. Well, these are wild times. Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock, you’re likely aware of the coronavirus. As…
Footwork
While perusing various videos on The Modern Martial Artist YouTube channel, I came across this fascinating video and loved the footwork analysis! If you are not able to view this video, click here. Quick background: Willie Pep is considered, pound for pound, among the top…