tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35106528330788216142024-03-13T03:39:56.053-07:00Harp KarateUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-28746710586701572242012-04-20T06:10:00.001-07:002012-04-20T06:11:06.945-07:00The Ins and Outs of Ups (Push-ups, that is)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Post By: Sensei Kris<br />
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Push-ups are one of those exercises that we all know we should do, but don't always want to do them. But they're important, and for many reasons besides being a requirement for each of the belt ranks! In the last few years I've learned and discovered a lot about doing these things over and over and over. As recently as three years ago, I still couldn't really do full-length push-ups due to a shoulder injury sustained when I got T-boned by an SUV while riding my bicycle home from the office. But those days are behind me.<br />
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Up front, though, let's acknowledge that many of us have learned how to cheat at push-ups, by sticking our rear ends way up in the air or just barely bending our arms at all. And while that might let you keep up with the pace of the class, it's only really cheating one person - you. So the first step in this 12-step program is to admit you have a problem with push-ups and to commit to doing them correctly. Because cheating yourself just means that you will never develop the muscles and coordination to do the technique correctly.<br />
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From a physics perspective, there are really two things to look at in the motion of performing a push-up: force and work. So I did a little physics to calculate the way the force you are applying changes at different points during the push-up, and guess what? Just like the cheaters have always known and avoided, the hardest part - the maximum force you have to apply - happens at the start when you're closest to the ground. If you do a full-length push-up, with your back and legs perfectly aligned, and you start as close to the ground as possible, you are lifting about 62.5% of your body weight at the start of the push-up. So if you weigh 120 pounds, you're basically doing a 75 pound bench press. But this force drops off as you extend your arms and change the angle your body makes with the ground. At maximum arm extension, this force is approximately 58% of your body weight, so that 120 pound person is only doing a 70 pound bench press. Not a lot of difference, but over the course of many push-ups, it adds up. I also looked at how the distance between your legs changes the forces. And it turns out that the force does decrease as you spread your legs, but even at a 60-degree angle, you still have about 94% of the maximum force possible.<br />
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In terms of work, which is a measure of the amount of energy you use to lift your body against the force of earth's gravity, the results are a little more interesting. Doing a half-push-up uses less than 40% of the energy required to do a full push-up. So if you are only bending your arms half-way, you are really losing out on training. Doing 10 all-the-way-to-the-ground pushups burns as much energy as doing 26 half-pushups! That's a big difference. And spreading your legs actually lets you burn a few more calories, so long as you don't spread them too far (don't put your feet farther apart than your arm span.)<br />
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And speaking of calories, if you go to FatBurn.com and use their free tool for calculating calories burned during exercise, you find that a minute of moderately paced push-ups burns about 11 calories for a person my size (basically 0.61 calories per 10 pounds of body weight.) So it's not just about the mechanics, but how fast you do them.<br />
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Finally, there are some easy modifications to make to help you work toward your next push-up mile mark. We all know about the modified position, doing push-ups from your knees. But you can do full length in a variety of ways. To make them easier without sacrificing form, change the level of your head slightly by positioning your hands on chairs or a low wall or windowsill. When that gets easy, try doing them from much lower - like the edge of the aiki mat. Then go to where you head and hands are even. On the other hand, if you are finding full length pushups easy, but don't want to just do another 100 of them, try raising your feet higher than your hands. These techniques are easy if you do them outside on the hill - all you need is to reposition your body to make it easier or harder.<br />
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Don't forget to always keep your back straight and your rear end down. Work toward being able to do 10 perfect form pushups. Then go for 20. Or pick up the pace. Lately, my routine for pushups is to do a set of 50, rest and stretch my arms for a minute or less, do a set of 40, rest, set of 30, rest, set of 20, rest, and a set of 10 (that's 150 total). When that gets easy, I'll shift to sets of 55, 45, 35, 25, 15, and 5. And then work up. And when I'm close to the next mark, I'll use my hand and foot positions to help me transition to the new goal.<br />
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The bottom line is simple. It's up to you to keep yourself honest and to get the most out of every training session. If you are going to train, get the most out of the time you're putting in. We're all too busy to waste time by training at less than 100%.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8VnUUJ4VdAk/T5Ff_sg1YOI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/u5je5frbLnQ/s1600/19380_1333577219965_1247098649_989253_5526704_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8VnUUJ4VdAk/T5Ff_sg1YOI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/u5je5frbLnQ/s320/19380_1333577219965_1247098649_989253_5526704_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By: Ken Smith</td></tr>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-63261073013094499342012-04-13T06:08:00.000-07:002012-04-13T09:02:00.356-07:00Swords and Arrows<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Post By: Deena Hucko
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Perhaps we had a touch of spring fever
in Ken Jutsu class this week. Someone suggested we try knocking
arrows out of the air with our bokken. Everyone agreed it would be
an interesting exercise.
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We warmed up by tossing balls into the
air, then drawing our swords and "cutting" them. After
honing our reflexes on the foam balls, we were ready for the real
thing. Sensei Lee has a compound bow and a set of arrows with tips
wrapped in red duct tape. As each of us took a spot at one end of the
karate floor, Sensei Lee sighted her weapon and shot a series of
arrows.</div>
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I took my turn with some trepidation.
It seemed a little crazy to be standing there letting someone shoot
live (albeit padded) arrows at me, and I had a flashback to when I
was 12 years old. My brother and I were outside with a group of
neighborhood children, in the fields behind our houses. One of the
boys had a bow and arrow, and suddenly he aimed it straight up and
shot an arrow into the air. His face turned to shock and fear as he
realized what he had done, and everyone started to run. Except me.
As the others ran, I felt a calmness that told me to stay still and
watch the sky. Time slowed down, as it sometimes does, and I waited.</div>
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Back to the dojo, I was in place on the
karate floor, waiting for the first arrow, fighting the sense of
panic that was rising inside. Suddenly, I found that calmness. I
was able to relax and wait for the arrow. While I can't claim to
have knocked any out of the air, I was able to watch and step aside
when the arrows approached.</div>
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Finding the calmness inside is an
important part of martial arts training, where it is known as "mizu
no kokoro" or "mind like water". To develop this
calmness, we work on controlling our breathing, and on performing our
techniques under duress in the dojo. Learning to face fear is part of
that development, building confidence and courage. It is a lesson we
are able to take out of the dojo and apply to our every day lives.
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And that sky bound arrow of my youth?
Fortunately, I watched it fall to the ground without harming anyone.</div>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-9555187285914183912012-03-16T13:25:00.000-07:002012-03-16T13:25:31.316-07:00Spring Training<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Spring is here! And among other things it means that it is time to wake up and push forward with our training. Spring is that special time of year where you naturally feel more energized as the days become longer and warmer, but the hot and humid days of summer are still months away. We have some fun events coming up at the dojo:<br />
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Sensei Phil is testing for his second degree black belt on March 31 at 10:00 AM. Make sure you are there and prepared to participate.<br />
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The Outdoor Seigan continues! With things like sunlight and above freezing temperatures, training outside this time of year is enjoyable. Come to practice Thursdays ready to venture out onto the hill.<br />
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Advanced Breaking Seminar for brown and black belts is on Friday the 23rd. Sign up for an opportunity to break boards, bricks, and ice!<br />
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Think about any possible seminars you would be interested in having. Contact any of the black belts about ideas or interests you have.<br />
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Along with all this, take some time to look over your testing requirements. Work on conquering your goals in the martial arts. That might mean achieving your next belt rank, attending more classes, or getting better at a specific facet of your training. Whatever your goals are, focus and use this time to train hard and experience the necessary mental and physical growth required to achieve them. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By: Dan Hucko</td></tr>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-37776424804921434132012-03-09T12:25:00.000-08:002012-03-09T12:25:31.352-08:00Best Belt Rank?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
What was your favorite belt rank (other than black belt)? And Why?<br />
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Green was my favorite. Green belt is the rank you first get to start using weapons and throws. You also get to be considered one of the "upper belts." Testing for my green belt was also an intense and challenging experience.<br />
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Add your thoughts in the comments!<br />
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-9469935754308223622012-03-02T06:57:00.000-08:002012-03-02T06:57:30.996-08:00But What If...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Post By: Sensei Lee<br />
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I think one of the most common questions I hear as a Sensei is "But what if...?"<br />
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"But what if someone grabs you this way?"<br />
"But what if the have a knife?"<br />
"But what if they are on drugs and don't feel it when you hit them?"<br />
"But what if they hit you with the other hand while you're escaping the grab?"<br />
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There are countless "But what if's...?" in life in general, and certainly these questions are bound to come up during training. In fact, it is good to be questioning. It shows that you are thinking about your martial art techniques and not simply following through the motions blindly.<br />
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Training in any martial art does not guarantee that you will conquer a gang of goons like Bruce Lee by delivering one perfectly executed technique to each bad guy. It means that should a threatening situation arise, that you are better prepared to handle it than the average person who has no training.<br />
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Lets say you are leaving a crowded theater when a fight breaks out. Suddenly an angry, violent, and out of control individual comes hurtling at you and your loved one. Your training can do a few different things for you. Perhaps because of your training, you heard the sounds of a fight and recognized it for what it was ahead of time. Martial arts training could allow you to get yourself and your loved one out of the situation before you inadvertently become stuck in the middle of it. Maybe you were able to get your loved one out of the way and divert most of the blow from this attacker while managing to subdue them with a couple of well timed strikes. Or maybe you heard the attacker coming and had enough time to meet their blow and throw them to the ground with an imperfect but effective Koshi Nage. Or maybe as they were coming at you...<br />
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There are thousands of scenarios you can work through. This is in part because of your training, you understand all the different ways a situation like this could play out. In contrast, someone with no martial arts experience would likely not even recognize what was going on until it was too late.<br />
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In real life, a self defense situation is never going to work the way it does in the dojo. An attacker will not grab you the same way, react the way you are used to, or necessarily respond to a foot stomp. However, after training for a number of years you start to develop a kind of martial arts 6th sense. You recognize what way joints move and what ways they do not. As openings present themselves you strike without really thinking about it. Awareness is what prepares you to react to an attack accordingly, even if it is not exactly like the way we practice in circle attacks.<br />
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This awareness comes from practice and time. One of my favorite Sensei told me something back when I was a green belt that I still think about today: "Cry in the dojo, laugh on the battlefield." I love that saying, and think about it often.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By: Dan Hucko </td></tr>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-47025369369408416652012-02-24T05:47:00.000-08:002012-02-24T05:47:33.639-08:00You Know You're a Martial Artist When...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Post By: S Lee<br />
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Are you guilty of any of these?<br />
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You know you're a martial artist when...<br />
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*You use various kicks and strikes to turn light switches on and off<br />
*You refuse to wear certain pants because you can't kick in them<br />
*Trying out a new pair of shoes means practicing sweeps and circle stepping in them<br />
*You bow when entering or leaving a room<br />
*Find yourself practicing ken-jutsu techniques with kitchen knives<br />
*Open and close doors using spinning kicks<br />
*You never lean against walls or stand with your arms crossed or hands in your pockets<br />
*You groan and correct the techniques used in martial art movies<br />
*Find yourself practicing stances while waiting in line<br />
*You imagine yourself hip-throwing any brisk moving individual that passes by you in the Wegmans parking lot<br />
*You bow when introduced to someone new<br />
*Cannot help but take inventory of possible weapons at restaurants and bars<br />
*Practice bo techniques with any long and cylindrical object: yard sticks, broom handles, walking sticks, rakes, snow shovels, etc.<br />
*Have your favorite weapon next to your bed<br />
*Have at least one weapon in each room of your home<br />
*Know exactly what weapon you are going for should your home be invaded<br />
*Insist that various friends and family members grab you and try to hang on while you escape and put them into painful locks and chokes<br />
*Take note whenever you see someone who isn't centered<br />
*You angrily chastise the victims in slasher movies for not using proper self defense <br />
*You respond with "<i>OSU</i>" when given direct instructions from a boss or spouse<br />
*You have or have thought about dive rolling over various objects<br />
*Cannot walk by fellow martial artists without throwing mock punches and kicks at them<br />
*You <i>KIAI</i> instead of swear when you slam your hand in the door<br />
*Cannot walk by wood tables or pieces of concrete without pondering the best technique you could use to break them<br />
*Have a hard time shaking someone's hand without turning it into <i>Kansetsu Waza</i><br />
<i>*</i>You can recite complete lines from Enter the Dragon, Kill Bill, or Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon<br />
*You can add onto this list...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By: S Ken Smith </td></tr>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-19844249877550079302012-02-17T05:43:00.000-08:002012-02-17T05:43:41.482-08:00Getting Hit Too Hard in Sparring<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Post By: S Lee<br />
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You're in the middle of a sparring match and your partner starts striking you harder than you are comfortable with. Maybe a punch penetrated your guard and got you hard in the gut, or even gave you a black eye. Or maybe the strike didn't get in, but you are afraid of getting hurt if it does. Either way, you are concerned and in the middle of a very uncomfortable situation.<br />
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There are a few ways of dealing with this. First, remember where you are. Karate and sparring in particular are combative. Striking and getting hit are major components, and they are not always a bad thing. Surviving a hard sparring match relatively unscathed shows that you can handle the ordeal. It also teaches you that bloody noses, black eyes, and rough throws to the ground while painful do heal. They are survivable. You learn how much punishment a body can take without being incapacitated. This is extremely important when applied in self defense.<br />
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That being said, we do not want our students to all end up in the hospital. If you feel like your sparring match is out of control, then you should say something. Politely ask your sparring partner to ease up or slow down. Stop the match if you have to. Make sure he or she knows that you are serious and not joking around. Also check yourself. I have found over the years that most people return the amount of speed and power they feel that they themselves are receiving. It could be that you don't realize how strong or fast <i>you </i>are going, and that your partner is simply returning that pace. Once both of you are aware and have reset the match, see if things improve. If they do not and you still feel threatened, get the attention of a Sensei. Sensei can intervene and make sure the situation is handled. However, make sure you flag us down and actually have our attention. While we are very aware of our surroundings we are not omnipotent, and we may not realize what is going on right away unless you tell us.<br />
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Another option is to wear sparring gear. Gear protects you as well as your sparring partner, and if you want to hit harder without the lasting damage this is a great option. If your partner is punching or kicking too hard bare-knuckle, ask them to put gear on. Those inches of foam padding make a difference, and that might be all you need to make the sparring match civil. This is often a double-edged sword. If you are wearing gear, your partner may take that as a green light to hit you harder. I will often request gear if I want to have an intense match, but I'm concerned that my partner may do lasting damage without it.<br />
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Lastly, access what it is that you are specifically worried about. If you have an old injury that could be made worse, such as a bad knee, there are ways to protect it. You can request that your sparring partner avoid take-downs. If you were hit in the temple too hard once and are fearful of experiencing that again, talk to a Sensei. We can help you adjust your guard and give you other strategies to better protect yourself. <br />
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The worst thing you can do is avoid sparring altogether or to avoid specific people. It is perfectly fine to take a break in order to recover, but you must get back to it. Overcoming fear is a huge learning experience in the martial arts. By avoiding you are not learning anything. When I think of the people I used to be afraid of I realize that these are the individuals who have taught me the most. If I had avoided them the first time they had hit me too hard, I would have missed out on some truly valuable lessons. In fact, some of the people I used to be afraid of as a yellow belt eventually turned into my favorite instructors.<br />
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If your sparring match is out of control, stand up for yourself. You can also ask an instructor for assistance. Try suggesting sparring gear as well. Never avoid the situation, and instead look for learning opportunities. Get the most out of sparring by being assertive and by working at your own pace. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By: S Ken Smith </td></tr>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-32196763610570711422012-02-08T07:34:00.000-08:002012-02-10T05:46:00.006-08:00Board Breaking<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Post By: S Lee<br />
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Board breaking is one of those iconic karate things that new students are often in awe over. It is a showy and strong example of sheer power as a hand or leg blasts through wood or even concrete like it was nothing. Reserved for seminars and belt testing, board breaking is also a "special" activity we don't get to do at every practice.<br />
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While breaking boards looks impressive, you may find that it is not at all as difficult as you first imagined. Some power, speed, and muscle are needed, however, most of the ability to break a board comes from your mind. Staying focused and hitting through the board, as opposed to ending your strike on contact will determine the likelihood of your success. Mentally, you have to imagine that you are going to explode through that wood board. Being afraid or timid will likely result in failure. Send your energy past the board and into the holders, as if the wooden separation isn't even there. <br />
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That being said, there are other nuances to board breaking. Your Sensei will help you and explain what you exactly need to do. Listen to them! Some techniques are more difficult than others, and if a Sensei suggests trying something else, there is a good reason for it. There are many different techniques to use, including kicks and upper body strikes. It is best that you pick something you are familiar with, especially if it is your first time breaking.<br />
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There are different ways to go about breaking your 4 boards. Some students will go through them one by one, choosing one technique at a time to focus on. You pick your technique and find someone to hold your boards. After performing a few practice strikes, you then launch your technique and break. More advanced students, typically green belt and above, will do a series break. This is where you select at least two techniques to do in a sequence without a break in-between. After finding your holders, position them where you want. It might be with them standing across from each other or in a circle around you. Practice your entire sequence a few times. As soon as you are ready, break your boards in the order of your sequence. Another option is to break multiple boards at once. Pick a technique that is very strong for you, like an elbow strike. The holders will keep at least two boards steady, giving you a chance to break both boards at the same time with just one strike.<br />
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Enjoy board breaking! This is a fun way to challenge your mind and body. Those boards won't stand a chance this seminar!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eI4DWfm-sMA/TzKTMCxWF-I/AAAAAAAAAOA/NW4ItP2ttEo/s1600/FarSide.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eI4DWfm-sMA/TzKTMCxWF-I/AAAAAAAAAOA/NW4ItP2ttEo/s320/FarSide.gif" width="253" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This comic used to hang in the Kung-Fu studio. It always made me smile!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2fRrrHSzDe8/TzKTpsvJ2hI/AAAAAAAAAOI/jXpisDizP20/s1600/P1180912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2fRrrHSzDe8/TzKTpsvJ2hI/AAAAAAAAAOI/jXpisDizP20/s320/P1180912.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By: Ken Smith </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-44369113454303216472012-02-03T05:57:00.000-08:002012-02-03T05:57:42.872-08:00Solitary Training<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Post By: S Lee<br />
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We are all happy to get to practice and see a group of people ready to work hard! Their energy helps keep us going. Seeing people you enjoy working with is always a bonus as well. However, solitary training is also valuable.<br />
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Training by yourself can seem boring at first. You also may worry about practicing things incorrectly. But the benefits of this kind of practice outweigh the potential risks. Going through techniques on your own can give you insight you would not normally have gained working in group. Your focus becomes internalized, forcing you to examine yourself more than you would in a class full of people. As we progress, this is also how we develop our own art, as opposed to doing a kata or technique a certain way because we were told to do so. This might mean seeing other possible applications of the techniques, such as transforming a simple side-block reverse punch combination into an arm break in Seisan Kata. Solitary training is also when you have an opportunity to be experimental. You can freely play around with weapons, techniques, and drills without worrying about possibly messing up and being embarrassed. I spent a week drilling the "suicide" nunchaku move by myself before attempting it in front of other people, not wanting them to see me bash myself in the head with the things. Committing to a seigan is a great outlet for solitary training. Unless you are able to make it to the dojo every single day for classes, you will end up doing some of your training alone.</div>
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Lone training can help you develop into a stronger martial artist. Overcome any trepidation you may have about practicing techniques incorrectly. Working on your own is an excellent opportunity to really examine yourself.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eJSd9qlLkbE/TyvmcoolYLI/AAAAAAAAANw/RXuqz7bTXfc/s1600/P1120953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eJSd9qlLkbE/TyvmcoolYLI/AAAAAAAAANw/RXuqz7bTXfc/s320/P1120953.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By: Ken Smith</td></tr>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-52251753656783210162012-01-27T06:28:00.000-08:002012-01-27T06:32:14.454-08:00Outdoor Seigan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Post By: S Lee<br />
<br />
During the Thursday class we have been challenging ourselves by having part of practice outside. The idea is to continue to do this, despite whatever weather conditions might arise. Though we have not been purposely adding time to our half hour challenge, it has been naturally happening. The first time out there we lasted half an hour, while last class we spent about forty-five minutes training outdoors. So why would anyone insist on this?<br />
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There are a number of reasons why outdoor training is beneficial. First, we did not pick the Thursday self defense class randomly. Using techniques on uneven ground, sometimes slippery ground, against people wearing layers of clothing, adds some needed realism to self defense. Chances are if you are ever attacked in real life, you may have to face these conditions. Even throwing a simple and normally powerful elbow strike is difficult if you slide on a patch of ice (which I found out last week.) It makes you realize that things like head kicks or spinning kicks are maybe not as good for self defense as you once thought. Plus, with the noise of the passing traffic it is almost impossible to hear your attacker approaching. This drastically cuts down on the time you have to react with something that makes sense.<br />
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Toughness is an element that is necessary in nearly every sport, and certainly in the martial arts. Forcing yourself to train in less than ideal conditions helps develop this inner sense of strength. It shows you that you can go outside in the rain or snow, do what you have to, and return relatively unscathed. I think anyone who has experienced this will agree that it feels good running up that hill. It feels good throwing your techniques and working through circle attacks as the wind rushes at you. There is a certain amount of satisfaction when you throw your wet and mud-stained uniform in the wash.<br />
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Personally, staying focused outside is the toughest thing for me. The rushing cars, occasional jogger, dog walkers, and the huge glowing Tim Horton's sign are all major distractions. Staying focused through kata and basics is even more difficult with all these other things going on.<br />
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I strongly urge people to join us outside. It is excellent training and you will feel good about it. Oxyclean and Tide are great at getting mud out of white uniforms. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HlmPr7Sc1do/TyKzarTNFeI/AAAAAAAAANg/2Ge2oaF-bfw/s1600/dojo+and+house+142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HlmPr7Sc1do/TyKzarTNFeI/AAAAAAAAANg/2Ge2oaF-bfw/s320/dojo+and+house+142.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By: Ken Smith</td></tr>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-6089721391744524302012-01-20T05:37:00.000-08:002012-01-20T05:37:54.244-08:00Warming-Up Before Practice Starts<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Post by: S Lee<br />
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You bow in, enter the dojo, bow to the shrine, and see that you have a good ten minutes before practice starts. Now what? Lately we have been going over some good ways to warm-up on your own when you get to the dojo a little bit early.<br />
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Range of motion exercises are a good way to start, but they shouldn't be done for more than a couple minutes. Muscles are like taffy, when they are warm they are stretchy and flexible. However, when they are cold they are susceptible to injury. Therefore, it is best to start warming up those muscles before you start stretching or doing strenuous activity like punching and kicking the bags. Here are some ideas:<br />
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-Knees to chest<br />
-Jumping jacks<br />
-Light jog, incorporating upper body movement<br />
-Light shadow boxing<br />
-Jump rope<br />
-Kata<br />
-Tai Sabaki<br />
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After a few minutes of warming up with one of these activities, your muscles should start feeling warm and loose. Depending on how warmed up you are, you may feel like stretching at this point. Another option is to start practicing techniques. Bag work, push-ups, sit-ups, weapons kata, rolls, and other techniques can be practiced for the last few minutes before class starts.<br />
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There are some things you should NOT be doing:<br />
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-Talking about non-martial arts stuff<br />
-Sitting down to stretch<br />
-Staring into oblivion<br />
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It is important to get the most out of every class you attend. This is true for everyone, but even more so for people looking to test. One of the things black belts look for in potential testers is their readiness and enthusiasm. This is also your chance to work that new part of your kata or to go over your offensive sparring combinations without a Sensei scrutinizing your techniques.<br />
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Keep these things in mind when arriving to practice early. Have any other ideas for warm-ups? Add them in the comments!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rlvIuNGNxEw/TxWAWmzD_qI/AAAAAAAAAMg/Mo49Ajp6yb4/s1600/P1020050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rlvIuNGNxEw/TxWAWmzD_qI/AAAAAAAAAMg/Mo49Ajp6yb4/s320/P1020050.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By: Ken Smith</td></tr>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-15951185957128654502012-01-13T06:04:00.000-08:002012-01-13T06:04:28.173-08:00Photos!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">
Here are some photos from over the years at our dojo:</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uKdOHHBjcfc/TxA096GJSgI/AAAAAAAAALI/eML_4CBvBIY/s1600/board.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uKdOHHBjcfc/TxA096GJSgI/AAAAAAAAALI/eML_4CBvBIY/s320/board.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By: Ken Smith </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qR_hxnp3PVY/TxA1Ck3kSZI/AAAAAAAAALQ/zMYDm0q6iUc/s1600/dojo+test+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qR_hxnp3PVY/TxA1Ck3kSZI/AAAAAAAAALQ/zMYDm0q6iUc/s320/dojo+test+005.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By: Lee Phelan</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QAxjGyXf1-g/TxA1Ni_WDNI/AAAAAAAAALY/7qi4OSs5sQY/s1600/P1000842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QAxjGyXf1-g/TxA1Ni_WDNI/AAAAAAAAALY/7qi4OSs5sQY/s320/P1000842.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By: Ken Smith</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0eAXhjNt39Y/TxA1b0dRKtI/AAAAAAAAALg/hC2Jv7B3t6s/s1600/dojo+test+041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0eAXhjNt39Y/TxA1b0dRKtI/AAAAAAAAALg/hC2Jv7B3t6s/s320/dojo+test+041.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By: Lee Phelan</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a3AeN7p-j2E/TxA1y9CEoFI/AAAAAAAAALo/Y6J1qyrIXgM/s1600/P1100266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a3AeN7p-j2E/TxA1y9CEoFI/AAAAAAAAALo/Y6J1qyrIXgM/s320/P1100266.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By: Ken Smith</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UyhgUbwruKw/TxA18ar7wjI/AAAAAAAAALw/GFQ_5M_2nMI/s1600/171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UyhgUbwruKw/TxA18ar7wjI/AAAAAAAAALw/GFQ_5M_2nMI/s320/171.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By: Deena Hucko</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dzYaKnWtQQ8/TxA3O-P3_yI/AAAAAAAAAMA/JQqd_w5OFys/s1600/34599_1527265618619_1144043701_1487318_6959709_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dzYaKnWtQQ8/TxA3O-P3_yI/AAAAAAAAAMA/JQqd_w5OFys/s320/34599_1527265618619_1144043701_1487318_6959709_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By: Kathleen Vona</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QruadglR6AI/TxA3GHekUGI/AAAAAAAAAL4/JllElNTOAJQ/s1600/dojo+test+083.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QruadglR6AI/TxA3GHekUGI/AAAAAAAAAL4/JllElNTOAJQ/s320/dojo+test+083.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By: Dan Hucko</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-puQcp0zXQbM/TxA0vsmlhXI/AAAAAAAAALA/ApMWhGvToYQ/s1600/401.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-puQcp0zXQbM/TxA0vsmlhXI/AAAAAAAAALA/ApMWhGvToYQ/s320/401.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By: Ken Smith</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lcBf3namGzM/TxA4wNz0_cI/AAAAAAAAAMI/MttKhdYT9-I/s1600/P1120907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lcBf3namGzM/TxA4wNz0_cI/AAAAAAAAAMI/MttKhdYT9-I/s320/P1120907.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo By: Ken Smith</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-27525841365086371802012-01-06T07:00:00.000-08:002012-01-06T07:00:10.160-08:00Interview with Sensei Randy<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>1. How long have you been training? </b><br />
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I have been training in the martial arts for almost 19 years.<br />
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<b>2. What martial arts have you studied? </b><br />
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I started in Aiki Ju Jutsu before I started training with Sensei Harp. The style (Kaze Arashi Ryu) was very rough. I was sore for 2 straight years! When I started with Harp, it was a new deal....the same art without the extreme pain in every class. I have studied and trained in Aikido, when I was living in Florida for a couple of years. I enjoyed it and learned a different perspective on the Aiki arts. The intent is totally different than Aiki Ju Do. I also have taken a few classes (when I was visiting my very good friend in Philadelphia) in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Those guys were crazy!! It was all about hurting the other guy and winning. They wouldn't tap.<br />
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<b>3. What do you love most about the martial arts? </b><br />
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Martial arts has given me strength, resolve and discipline. The ability to defend myself and those I love is just another added benefit that thankfully I have never had to use. It has taught me how not to get into bad situations as well.<br />
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<b>4. What do you think is special about Harp Karate compared to other schools? </b><br />
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The people I have trained with are what makes Harp so special. Our Dojo seems to attract the best of the best. We all care about each other on and off the training floor.<br />
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<b>5. How did you first become involved in the martial arts? </b><br />
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I had wanted to take up the martial arts since I was about 17, but after a severe knee injury when I was 18, I didn't think it was possible. But after my second knee operation at the age of 39, it felt good so I went for it!! I went to about 5 or 6 schools. When I watched Aiki being executed, I said "that's so cool!" so I started and have never stopped.<br />
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<b>6. What is your proudest moment in the dojo? </b><br />
<br />
Although receiving my first Black Belt was a very proud moment, I think I was even more proud when a couple of people that I helped to train for their Black Belts received theirs. And receiving my 2nd degree in Aiki and my 1st degree in Ken Jutsu when I was physically in sub-standard health really made me feel good about myself.<br />
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<b>7. Who in the martial arts has inspired you? </b><br />
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Of course, watching Bruce Lee in the movies was the first inspiration for me. Another person who received his Black Belt in Aiki at the age of 63 or so, made me realize I could keep training for a long time. And of course, Sensei Terry with her 1000 day Seigan after some trying times in her life made me keep going when I wasn't sure I could.<br />
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<b>8. Where do you see your training going in the next five years?</b><br />
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I am looking forward to working on improvement in my Aiki techniques and continue with my Ken Jutsu training. I love Ken Jutsu. The feeling of the sword in my hand has become so comfortable and satisfying.<br />
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<b>9. What is your favorite technique, kata, or other activity in the dojo?</b><br />
<br />
I would have to say that although I love Aiki and Ken Jutsu, the involvement with the exceptional people I train with is my favorite part. <br />
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<b>10. How have the martial arts changed who you are? </b><br />
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It has given me confidence, humility and a feeling of strength that I did not know I had in me. It has made me realize that there really isn't anything you cannot do if you set your mind to it.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Spn7T_-QSZc/TwR_ECpw2iI/AAAAAAAAAKc/lG1sfluKwpE/s1600/randy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Spn7T_-QSZc/TwR_ECpw2iI/AAAAAAAAAKc/lG1sfluKwpE/s320/randy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo By: Ken Smith</span></div>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-42884405340632989602011-12-30T07:10:00.000-08:002011-12-30T07:10:25.616-08:00When the Technique Does the Work<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Post By: Sensei Lee<div><br />
</div><div>Keep in mind that while I have earned the rank of 2nd degree black belt in karate, that in Aiki I'm an orange belt. So I apologize ahead of time if this post is incorrect and shows my Aiki ignorance. I hope that any Aiki readers will correct me if this comes out wrong. </div><div><br />
</div><div>The other night in Aiki Sensei Dawn put us through a pretty grueling practice. In circle attack fashion we had to go through three techniques in order with the attackers punching 1-8. Not only is it difficult to remember where you are in the sequence and to correctly perform the needed technique, but it is also hard on the attackers. Attackers need to pop up from a throw quickly in order to provide the next punch. Sensei Dawn pointed out near the end of this practice that the Aiki black belts were breathing normally. Meanwhile, the lower belts (myself included) were out of breath and dripping with sweat. </div><div><br />
</div><div>It amazes me how little physical exertion and effort are needed in Aiki when the techniques are done correctly. Granted, sometimes I want to push myself in practice in order to get a decent "workout." Unfortunately, I don't have time to make it to a gym and then to practice, so martial arts remain my primary form of exercise. However, having the ability to choose when to push yourself in terms of exertion and when to let the Aiki work for you, now that sounds like a great ability to have. </div><div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo By: Ken Smith</span></div><div><br />
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</div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-15671196996875251702011-12-23T06:16:00.000-08:002011-12-23T06:16:49.999-08:00Competitions and the Martial Arts<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Post By: Sensei Lee<br />
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A few years ago Sensei Kris and I entered an international karate tournament, with Sensei Harp's permission of course. While there were competitions in kata, weapons, semi contact sparring, and no contact sparring, we picked full contact fighting to compete in. Both of us had our own reasons for entering. Personally, I wanted to experience the competitive environment and see how my training held up against someone trying to hurt me.<br />
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Fighting in tournaments is very different from the sparring we do at our dojo. There were different rules as well as different goals. For example, elbows, leg kicks, and knee smashes were allowed but not punches to the face. The goal of the match was to render your opponent unable to continue. This meant knocking them unconscious. Points were also awarded for spirit and dominance during the match. No gear was worn, except for mouth guards.<br />
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For those who have never been to a karate tournament, they are not easy. There were last minute weight division changes, fighters dropped out and had be reorganized, and the fights were running hours behind. Managing through all this is sometimes just as hard as the competition itself.<br />
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Even so, I'm glad we entered. Considering that we had no competition training, we both did very well. Sensei Kris came in second while I came in third in our divisions. We both stuck it out and fought hard during our time in the ring. Sensei Phil was a great corner man as well! While I'm not sure if I would ever compete again, I did enjoy some aspects of the experience. I was able to fight with people from other styles, including the reigning Canadian champion!<br />
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Competitions have their benefits and rewards. It feels good to prepare, work hard, and experience other schools and styles. However, you have to be careful not to let it influence your ego too much, or to take the results too personally. Treat it like any other facet of your training: Learn and grow.<br />
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Check out S Kris's battle! There is a link to it on the left under the "Harp Karate on YouTube" heading.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Photo By: Ken Smith</div><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-56957616535495423612011-12-16T05:34:00.000-08:002011-12-16T05:34:28.139-08:00Training with an Injury<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Post By: Lee Phelan<br />
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Eventually one day it happens: you move incorrectly, have a lapse in concentration, or find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time. Sure enough, you walk away with an injury. Hopefully it wasn't serious. Maybe all you need is some ice, ibuprofen, and Tiger Balm. But sometimes it is serious, and you end up having to take some time off or drastically change how you train.<br />
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Injuries for the most part are frustrating, painful, and reminders of our vulnerability. However, they can also teach us a great deal.<br />
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Being injured does not have to interfere with your training. Just about anything we do can be modified and adjusted. Techniques can be done one handed, sitting down, slowly, gently, or even mentally. This forces us to use our other abilities to accomplish an end result. Sure, you may feel silly at first. But in actuality you are enhancing your training and adding an element of realism as well. In an actual self defense situation, you may not have all your weapons available. You may end up injured in the exchange and have to improvise. Working around an injury allows you to work on other facets of training that may otherwise be ignored. Without muscle to compensate, balance and positioning become that much more important.<br />
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That being said, always follow the advice given by a doctor or other medical professional. If they tell you to take it easy and stay out of practice, do it. If a Sensei tells you to stop and treat an injury, do it.<br />
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One of the biggest lessons the martial arts have taught me is perseverance. No matter what challenges are ahead, continue fighting and confidently head forward towards your goals. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lSlV8WRR_WI/Tt-ttDWIADI/AAAAAAAAAF0/MruYVIQusFU/s1600/588870t1uwjlgbs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lSlV8WRR_WI/Tt-ttDWIADI/AAAAAAAAAF0/MruYVIQusFU/s320/588870t1uwjlgbs.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo by: Akeeris</span></div><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-5478329281829376032011-12-09T04:40:00.000-08:002011-12-09T04:40:01.850-08:00On drinking, Spitting and Sword<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
Post By: Sensei Kris<br />
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Welcome to the second part of my irregular series on the Isshinryu Code. In this feature, we’ll examine one of the strangest of the tenets:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">The manner of drinking and spitting is either hard or soft.</div><br />
At first glance, one might wonder whether we are talking about martial arts at all. But I think this one line from the code nicely sums up a lot of what we do at Harp Karate.<br />
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First of all, we need to think more closely about “drinking” and “spitting”. Both deal with the same idea: are taking a liquid into your body (drinking) or expelling it from your body (spitting). If we replace the word “liquid” with “an opponent’s energy”, we get something interesting: The manner of taking an opponent’s energy and returning that energy is either hard or soft.<br />
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After a small amount of training, especially in circle attacks or sparring, we’ve experienced this. Sometimes you charge in at the person in the center in a direct confrontation (spitting hard). They respond by either meeting your charge with direct force like a block or a kick that catches you before you get too close (drinking hard) or by moving slightly and redirecting your energy (drinking soft). At other times, you try to be sneakier and attack the person in the middle more indirectly, such as a leg sweep while they are trying to reset after the last attack (spitting soft). They respond either by solidifying themselves against the sweep (drinking hard) or by allowing you to move them and then continuing that motion to their advantage (drinking soft).<br />
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We’re all used to sparring combinations. This tenet reminds us that there is a higher level of combinations – sort of a “meta-level” – where we think in larger terms about how we are being attacked and how we are responding to the attack. So here’s where my mathematician’s way of thinking comes into it. We have two ways of drinking and two ways of spitting. That’s 2 X 2 = 4 combinations of responding. To summarize them, we can<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Drink hard and spit soft</div><div style="text-align: center;">Drink soft and spit soft</div><div style="text-align: center;">Drink hard and spit hard</div><div style="text-align: center;">Drink soft and spit hard</div><br />
In sword, we refer to this by a more formal concept of yin and yang. Your partner attacks with the sword and you either block with yang (force against force) or yin (redirecting energy). Your counterattack after the block is either yin (following their movement) or yang (against their movement). Further, sword has eight basic strikes and eight blocks, so the combinations start to grow: eight strikes X 2 blocks (yin/yang) X 2 counterstrikes (yin/yang) = 32 combinations. When you factor in the three different distances that might be involved (close, middle, far) and how that affects the way you perform the technique, we suddenly get to around 96 combinations. Those on the Aiki side of the dojo are familiar with this combinatorial way of thinking (whether they realize it or not). But the karate side tends not to think this way too much.<br />
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At any rate, we’ve now got a lot of movements to memorize and practice. And to try and recognize which of those 96 you need at any given split second of a sword fight would result in “analysis paralysis” for most people. So the goal of our training is not simply to memorize all the movements and perform them perfectly. It is more subtle (did we ever think it wouldn’t be?). We need to think about the basic components of each of the movements – build our understanding and ability to perform them strong – so that we can use them as Lego blocks and build an appropriate response in the heat of the moment. This requires us to be fully present in the moment of each activity in the dojo and our personal training, aware of each of the facets (distance, the attacker’s technique, our block, our counter, etc.) so that we can develop a feel for what is actually happening that goes beyond what is easily seen.<br />
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So as you train in karate, Aiki, sword, automobile traffic, assignments, or whatever, think about how you take in the situation and how your give back. After all, it’s the season of giving! So drink up, everyone! (Or drink down, or…)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zCqGi0IraaI/TuDTPxcVj_I/AAAAAAAAAF8/hkIRP6LxPDk/s1600/P1100396.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zCqGi0IraaI/TuDTPxcVj_I/AAAAAAAAAF8/hkIRP6LxPDk/s320/P1100396.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Photo By: Ken Smith</div><br />
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</span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;">In January of 2012, I will have been training for 20 years … I wish I had started sooner!</span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><br />
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<b>2. What martial arts have you studied?</b></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><br />
</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;">I began my martial arts training at Harp Karate, studying Sensei Harp’s interpretation of Isshin Ryu Karate. I took a stab at Aiki Ju Do, but it didn’t work for me … I love the concept and principles of Aiki, but I have physical limitations that prevent me from pursuing the art. No worries though … Aiki Ken Jutsu and Ken Ai Do provide me with many opportunities to expand my horizons. These sword arts add depth to my training.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><br />
<b>3. What do you love most about the martial arts</b></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><b>?</b></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;">So hard to say … there is always room for improvement and growth … there is the feeling of confidence … there is the satisfaction in helping others learn … I have never found a negative aspect to martial arts training …</span><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"> </span> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><br />
</span><b><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;">4. What do you think is special about Harp Karate compared to other schools</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;">? </span></b></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"> I have never trained at another school, but I have visited some … at Harp Karate each student is an individual, valued for their individuality and trained with that individuality in mind. Each student is encouraged to work and progress at the pace that suits them best, and each student is backed by the support of all members of the dojo. </span> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><br />
<b>5. How did you first become involved in the martial arts? </b></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;">My sons joined Harp Karate while I was undergoing radiation and chemotherapy in a battle against breast cancer. When I finished my chemotherapy, I decided I would “take karate” to regain my strength. My four year old son taught me to tie my belt! I soon discovered that one doesn’t “take karate” … okay … some do … but not me …I was hooked after the first few classes … after that I didn’t “take karate” …. I was on the road to becoming a martial artist. </span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><br />
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<b>6. What is your proudest moment in the dojo?</b></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><b> </b></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;">I don’t think I can identify a proudest moment … there have been so many and there are so many more to come. The proudest moments so far have been when I have watched someone I have helped to train overcome all odds and attain their goals … </span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><br />
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<b>7. Who in the martial arts has inspired you? </b></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;">My brother was my first inspiration … then I joined Harp Karate and was inspired by many … Sensei Margot, Sensei Jennifer, and of course, Sensei Harp. </span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><br />
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<b>8. Where do you see your training going in the next five years?</b></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=3510652833078821614&postID=2919817735180362121" name="_GoBack"></a><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;">As one of the senior members of the dojo (I’m old), I see my training continuing along the path I have been following … I work on making more of less</span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><br />
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<b>9. What is your favorite technique, kata, or other activity in the dojo?</b></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;">When I enter the dojo whatever I practice is my favorite for that day … if I am the sensei I get to choose my favorite ,,, if I am not the Sensei, whatever I am assigned is my favorite for that time.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><br />
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<b>10. How have the martial arts changed who you are? </b></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;">The martial arts have made me an entirely different person …I am more confident (ok … confident at all) … I’m in the best physical condition I’ve ever been….I am happy and proud every day when I train and know that I have improved my life (and had fun doing it!) </span> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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Here is a list of 10 famous people who have trained in the martial arts:<br />
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Sean Connery: Kyokushin, also trained under Steven Seagal<br />
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Vladimir Putin: Judo Master<br />
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Bill Clinton: Taekwondo<br />
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Paul Walker: Brazilian Jujitsu<br />
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Criss Angel: Karate, Kung-Fu, Taekwondo<br />
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Theodore Roosevelt: Judo, Jujitsu<br />
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Madonna: Karate<br />
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Courtney Cox: Karate<br />
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Lucy Liu: Escrima, Silat<br />
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Abraham Lincoln: Wrestling<br />
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So keep training, who knows it may help you win the next election or land that movie role! Add any others you can think of in the comments.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vQSy3U6GteY/Ts3EdYcidXI/AAAAAAAAAFc/oudOOk52ToY/s1600/abraham-lincoln.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vQSy3U6GteY/Ts3EdYcidXI/AAAAAAAAAFc/oudOOk52ToY/s1600/abraham-lincoln.gif" /></a></div><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-68911740881843895162011-11-18T13:15:00.000-08:002011-11-18T13:15:10.579-08:00Interview with Sensei Kris Green<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-indent: 0px;"><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; text-indent: -24px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b> </b> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">How long have you been training?</span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; margin-left: 0.25in; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">I started in 1991, but had to take time off for knee problems for a few years, then got back into it and had to take time off after getting hit by an SUV while riding my bike in a perfectly legal and responsible fashion. But I’ve been back solidly for almost 5 years now.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; margin-left: 0.25in; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b><br />
What martial arts have you studied?</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; margin-left: 0.25in; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; margin-left: 0.25in; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">I’ve studied karate primarily, with Ken Jutsu (art of the boken) coming second. But I’ve also learned and taught some Tai Chi (Yang short form). I’ve been exposed to techniques from Aiki, Jujitsu, and other styles, but only at a very surface level.<br />
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What do you love most about the martial arts?</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; margin-left: 0.25in; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; margin-left: 0.25in; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">It’s a lot of fun, it’s challenging and it keeps me fit. I’m in better overall shape now than in my 20’s. In fact, martial arts was the first activity that I both liked and had to work hard to improve. I liked that challenge. And the breaks I took for injuries really helped me see how much I was missing. Another benefit is providing me an outlet emotionally and spiritually; the self-discipline and self-awareness have been VITAL to getting where I am today.<br />
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<b>How did you first become involved in the martial arts?</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; margin-left: 0.25in; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; margin-left: 0.25in; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">My first college roommate wanted to check out the karate club at school. It was Isshinryu-based and a lot of his high school friends had done Isshinryu. I stuck with it; he didn’t.<br />
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<b>What is your proudest moment in the dojo?</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; margin-left: 0.25in; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; margin-left: 0.25in; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">I think that would have to be seeing and hearing the reactions to what Sensei Lee and I prepared for our second degree test. We really worked hard on those interpretations of the kata, and having everyone react the way they did was extremely gratifying.<br />
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<b>Where do you see your training going in the next five years?</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; margin-left: 0.25in; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; margin-left: 0.25in; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">I hope to still be on my seigan, first of all. Second, I hope to be more patient and aware; right now, I get very impatient in sparring. I don’t like to wait for my opponent, even though that is extremely important, and always backfires when I don’t wait. I also hope to have helped a few students progress to their next level of training. I’m thinking about some of the green belts, in particular.<br />
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<b>What is your favorite technique, kata, or other activity in the dojo?</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; margin-left: 0.25in; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; margin-left: 0.25in; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">I love Kusanku. I think that kata is really complex and has a lot of layers to it, as evidenced by the “strange applications” Sensei Lee and I demonstrated a our second degree test. I also like sparring a lot.<br />
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<b>How have the martial arts changed who you are?</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; margin-left: 0.25in; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; margin-left: 0.25in; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Believe it or not, I’m a calmer person when I practice regularly. My mental focus is better. I’m happier. In high school, I had a lot of nicknames that were related to my dour personality. Now I’m much more pleasant to be around.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; margin-left: 0.25in; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZesC_uNTbvk/TsbKJpnQ8LI/AAAAAAAAAD8/73s2OeVhBPs/s1600/skris.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZesC_uNTbvk/TsbKJpnQ8LI/AAAAAAAAAD8/73s2OeVhBPs/s320/skris.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Photo by: Kathleen Vona</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; margin-left: 0.25in; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-73424915162062236742011-11-11T05:49:00.000-08:002011-11-11T05:49:20.493-08:00Balancing Life and Training<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Post By: Lee Phelan<br />
<br />
It isn't always easy finding balance with life in general, but it can be particularly difficult in the martial arts. This is especially true while training for an upcoming test. Training too much can lead to burn out and a disruption of life. Not training enough can lead to the stagnation of progress. Aside from hitting your ideal amount of training, there are also things like work, school, family, friends, movies, video games, and other obligations all demanding a certain amount of attention. So how does one balance all of this?<br />
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Priorities and goals play a huge role, and are a personal choice. If your goal is to one day run your own dojo, or to become a master in the martial arts, then training moves to the forefront of your life. If your goal is to achieve a certain level of fitness, again, the priorities adjust. Other goals like achieving a specific belt rank have an end in sight, which again influences your priorities. For some people martial arts become a passion, while for others it is a hobby. Depending on your own priorities and goals, training takes on a very different level of importance. Priorities can change year to year, day to day, moment to moment. If you have a hectic work week packed full of meetings and demands, then work might end up being a priority for awhile. If a loved one is in need, then again, your priorities will change. Depending on your goal, you may adjust and fit in training somehow, or you may take a break from training until things are settled.<br />
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One simple yet eye-opening moment of enlightenment for me was when I realized my training did not <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">have</span> to take place at the dojo. At first training at home was weird, and slightly damaging (nunchaku and ceiling tiles don't mix). But eventually I came to enjoy being able to work on my own thing, entirely at my own pace.<br />
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We are lucky enough to live in a time and place where superb training is not necessary for survival. None of us need to know hand-to-hand combat in order to protect our loved ones or property from barbarians. However, the martial arts for many become a way of life. Consider your goals and priorities in order to get the most out of your training.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wCdrQ1YHsks/Tr0nNlP9jcI/AAAAAAAAADk/mgtj6_L3LdA/s1600/throw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wCdrQ1YHsks/Tr0nNlP9jcI/AAAAAAAAADk/mgtj6_L3LdA/s320/throw.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Photo By: Deena Hucko</span></div><br />
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<br class="webkit-block-placeholder" /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-43524904011940682102011-11-04T06:11:00.000-07:002011-11-04T06:11:35.047-07:00Weapon of Choice<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Post By: Lee Phelan<br />
<br />
We are lucky to be able to train with a variety of weapons at Harp Karate. At green belt karate student can begin practicing with the sai, nunchaku, and the bo. Later are the tonfas. In Aiki Ju Do students learn the chujo, chojo, and dijo. Once a student in either art reaches black belt, they can begin practicing with the sword.<br />
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At first I never liked weapons. The practical side of my brain would think things like: "When am I going to be walking down the street with a katana or bo in my hand?" However, I have now learned that weapons can teach us much more about balance, power, coordination, and body mechanics than I once thought. A weapon truly is an extension of yourself, and it can teach you a lot.<br />
<br />
If forced to choose a favorite, I would have to pick the sword. For me it truly expresses our concepts of opposites. This is a very powerful weapon, even though it takes little in terms of physical strength to use it. At first the cuts and defenses seem simple, but they are complex with countless variations. It is also a very beautiful and elegant weapon, despite being so deadly and dangerous.<br />
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Think about your own weapon of choice!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gA7p0EO4qqw/TrF26CLe7rI/AAAAAAAAADM/ORLppfZaP4w/s1600/21662p50vui6sn6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gA7p0EO4qqw/TrF26CLe7rI/AAAAAAAAADM/ORLppfZaP4w/s320/21662p50vui6sn6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo By: Rob Wiltshire </span></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-50333479928289579042011-10-28T06:30:00.000-07:002011-10-28T08:59:34.231-07:00Working Hard and Being Tough<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div>Post By: Lee Phelan</div><div><br />
</div>Recently we all received a letter from Sensei Harp explaining a concept of "old school" training. I have also noticed during my time as a sensei that upper belts often have questions concerning the requirements for black belt, especially once everything in the back of their book is checked off. Often the response to these inquiries is vague and abstract, since it is difficult to put these higher level requirements into words.<br />
<div><br />
</div><div>However, I believe things can be made much simpler, especially in light of Sensei Harp's letter. Students in the martial arts need to work hard and be tough. I don't necessarily mean cranking out a hundred handstand push-ups or walking on broken glass. There are many other things students and teachers can do to meet these two concepts.</div><div><br />
</div><div>As soon as you enter the floor, get to work. Do not talk about that jerk at work, how much homework you have, or your annoying relatives. I realize this can be difficult, especially when friendships develop within the dojo. But remember, the only talk should be about martial arts. So unless you have a specific question about a technique or kata, start working.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Come to class with the intention of doing your best. If you have an injury or condition you think will hamper you, either stay home or readjust what you are doing the best you can. Complaining to a Sensei or other students will only give you an excuse to take it easy, which negates both concepts.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Think about your uniform. If you only have a lightweight gi, consider switching to a heavy weight. The heavy weight gis will help with your training. It makes performing strong techniques irresistible, since hearing that nice <i>SNAP </i>becomes addicting<i>. </i>It also helps get you in the right mindset, just like wearing formal dress for an important event.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Keep the smiling and giggling down to a minimum. Some humor and being friendly is fine, but be careful not to take it too far. If you are laughing or talking with your partner more than you are working, you may have a problem.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Face your fears. If sparring is scary for you, do it anyway, but without showing your fear. Acting afraid of your opponent will only give them power. I think it is important to continually challenge your fears. For me facing my fears through sparring is a huge affirmation to my martial arts training. Yes, you read that right. There are people I spar with who scare me. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Everyone struggles with these concepts, and no one is perfect. It takes effort and a strong sense of character to start practicing while others are talking, or to put on the heavy weight gi when it is eighty degrees outside. However, your training both physically and mentally will greatly improve, and your goals will become even closer to your grasp. </div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-21G1J23tC8g/Tqqq9aDNx-I/AAAAAAAAACk/p9JDtNraOEY/s1600/476227uwsa5zol6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-21G1J23tC8g/Tqqq9aDNx-I/AAAAAAAAACk/p9JDtNraOEY/s320/476227uwsa5zol6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo by: Teerapun</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-40142440993306349192011-10-21T06:05:00.000-07:002011-10-21T06:05:12.199-07:00Awareness in Every Direction<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"></span><br />
<pre style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Post By: Sensei Kris Green
This is, I hope, the first of several posts related to a common theme: the
karate code. And while the code is Okinawan in origin and derived from and for
karate, it applies equally well to any martial art. Isshinryu’s founder, Master
Shimabuku, adapted the Code of Karate from an ancient text on empty-hand
fighting called The Bubishi. This code is a set of eight precepts that a
karateka is encouraged to consider, interpret, and reinterpret as he or she
develops through the art.
1. A person’s heart is the same as heaven and earth.
2. The blood circulating is similar to the moon and sun.
3. The manner of drinking and spitting is either hard or soft.
4. A person’s unbalance is the same as weight.
5. The body should be able to change directions at any time.
6. The time to strike is when opportunity presents itself.
7. The eye must see all sides.
8. The ear must listen in all directions.
Here, I’d like to focus on the last two precepts: “The eye must see all sides”
and “The ear must listen in all directions.” I want to consider them together
because they are very similar, and yet that similarity often hides a much deeper
interpretation.
On the surface, these two seem to be very applicable to self defense. After all,
how can one defend against opponents if you are not aware of their presence? If
you only look forward, you cannot see the enemy hiding just beyond the doorway
to the right. You may miss the sound of footsteps behind you as a malcontent
approaches. Not to mention the threats that may come from above as someone drops
from the ceiling, or below as the floor shifts, slides or falls out from under
you.
After reading many interpretations of these two precepts, it seems that most
people stop there. And yet that ignores the profound philosophical side to these
precepts. Lately, Sensei has been working with us specifically on developing
awareness. Certainly these precepts speak to the importance of visual and
auditory awareness of one’s surroundings. But there are two other directions in
which we must see and hear.
Notice that all the above awareness is focused externally, on one’s opponent or
potential opponents. Basically, it teaches us to be productively paranoid. But
we must also listen and see internally. Listen to our own breathing for signs
that we are tense. See one’s stance and guard from the opponent’s perspective.
Be aware of one’s awareness and where our attention is located. Listen to our
intentions, and let go of them as needed.
The other direction is one that normal people might not think of as a direction.
But I’m a physicist/mathematician by training, so thinking of time as a
direction is second nature. We must see the future and the past. I’m not talking
about mystical mumbo-jumbo here. I’m talking about hearing and seeing our
previous and possible future selves. What did the old me want to get out of my
training? Have I accomplished it? What will the me of ten years from now want to
be able to do? How can I help him get there? We are like the stream: the water
is always changing, but the stream remains. Our self is always changing, and our
perception of past, present, and future selves is always changing. We must be
aware of these as well, for we train not just for now but forever. This applies
every minute of our training – if throw a technique that is good or bad, we must
move past it and look to the next technique, rather than getting stuck on what
has already happened. </span></pre><pre style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"></pre><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: arial; font-size: 12px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-48eVD3XqQ_0/TqFsNczCQzI/AAAAAAAAACM/0WBoFjnofy4/s1600/49968u1u0x2kq2p.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-48eVD3XqQ_0/TqFsNczCQzI/AAAAAAAAACM/0WBoFjnofy4/s320/49968u1u0x2kq2p.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Photo By: Idea Go</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: arial; font-size: 12px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><pre style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center;"></pre><pre style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"></pre><pre style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"></pre></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3510652833078821614.post-42188099256193270742011-10-14T14:10:00.000-07:002011-10-14T14:10:52.684-07:00The Importance of Open Sparring Classes at Harp Karate<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Post By: Lee Phelan<br />
<br />
One of the things that makes our dojo truly unique is our open sparring class. This is something that many of us have grown accustomed to and may not fully appreciate. A couple of years ago I asked permission from Sensei to check out some sparring classes offered at other schools, which he seemed to happily encourage. Allow me to again express my appreciation for our sparring class.<br />
<br />
First of all, very few dojos have open sparring classes. The ones that were willing to let a foreigner in were, well, unique. Some were more open than others. There was one dojo that had to first gain permission from their head Sensei, who required my name, age, rank, number of years training, tournament history, and gender. After two weeks I was allowed into their inner sanctum. The atmosphere at this particular dojo was very competitive. Despite the full gear I was required to wear, I still left bruised and battered. Another observation I made were the lack of female students who were actually participating in the sparring. There was only one, and she was<i> serving water from a cooler to the guys</i>. (Lee takes a deep breath and calms down, repressing the urge to jump into a feminist rant.)<br />
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Another dojo I ventured to was very laid back during their sparring class. Uniforms it seemed, were optional. Which made it difficult to tell who was a beginner and who was advanced. After a brutal warm-up we went back and fourth between sparring and bag work, with Limp Bizkit blasting from a stereo the entire time. Students were allowed at any time to stop and partake in energy drinks which were in a mini fridge <i>on the dojo floor. </i>While I was curious about what 288 mg of caffeine would do to my sparring, I ultimately decided to pass.<br />
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One of the strangest dojos I went to was actually a Kung Fu school. Everyone was very respectful there, and I enjoyed the group meditation before we started. Off in one corner of their training floor was a guy with a giant drum. Drum guy would provide a tempo which we had to correspond our techniques with. The result was a bunch of mechanical and robotic movements. This actually could have been a fun training exercise if the beat had changed at any point during the hour of sparring.<br />
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Our school has an excellent atmosphere for sparring. We have the freedom to go at our own pace, to advocate for ourselves, and to learn. If you want to work on slow sparring, you can! If you want to throw on gear and train with stronger techniques, you can do that as well! <i></i><br />
<br />
Appreciate our open sparring class, participate and learn from the experience.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d_LQzT1R9oU/TpijwX2JriI/AAAAAAAAACE/MzTjk0EI7Ls/s1600/phil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d_LQzT1R9oU/TpijwX2JriI/AAAAAAAAACE/MzTjk0EI7Ls/s320/phil.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Photo By: Ken Smith</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1