by: Eric Tran

What Is Tae Kwon Do?

TAE means kicking or smashing with the foot.

KWON means punching with the fist.

DO means the art or method of.

A Korean sport, Tae Kwon Do means the art or method of punching and kicking. However, Tae Kwon Do specializes more on kicking than punching. It is the quick, spinning, high powerful kicks that sets Tae Kwon Do apart from the other martial arts systems.

2000 Olympics games

Tae Kwon Do was a demonstration sport for the Olympics Games at both Seoul in 1988 and Barcelona in 1992. It became a full medal sport for the first time at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games!

11 Commandments of Modern Tae Kwon Do

These modern axioms are used to guide the moral development of the Tae Kwon Do practitioner. According to the book, The Ultimate Reference Guide to the World`s Most Popular Martial Art: TAE KWON DO written by Yeon Hee Park, Yeon Hwan Park and Jon Gerrard, "... no student who does not fully understand these tenets can ever hope to master the true essence of the art."

* Loyalty to your country

* Respect your parents

* Faithfulness to your spouse

* Respect your brothers and sisters

* Loyalty to your friends

* Respect your elders

* Respect your teachers

* Never take life unjustly

* Indomitable spirit

* Loyalty to your school

* Finish what you begin

Stances

The most basic of all techniques and the most important. Developing proper stances is the key to the outcome of a confrontation. From my experience and my observations, I find that the unaccomplished students could not score points in a sparring match because of his/her uncoordinated transitions to an offensive stance. The movements seemed clumsy from a spectator`s perspective. Having proper stances allows the practitioner to flow smoothly into a defensive and offensive stance. It also enables the practitioner to throw hand strikes and kicks with power.

Power

Generating power for the kicking techniques comes from the torquing of the hips and waist. Generating Power for hand strikes and blocks comes from the twisting of the attacking or blocking arms or hands and the waist. The overall power of any strike is the combination of torquing, twisting and transferring your weight into the strike.

The Human Weapon

We all possess powerful weapons that could help us defend ourselves from assailants.

Hand

The hand consists of fingers, thumb, knuckles and palm. Forming a fist, we could effectively punch our assailant in the nose, jaw, or chin with the knuckles. In Tae Kwon Do and other martial arts, the aim is to strike with the first two knuckles. With this achieved, the practitioner will not injure his hand and the assailant will sense more pain than if the whole fist was used. The reason lies in the principle of surface area and this is linked to why a person can lay on a bed of nails. Because the person`s body is spread evenly on the bed of nails, no pain or little pain (has anyone laid on a bed of nails? I haven`t...) is sensed. This leads us to the fingers.

Fingers and Thumbs

The fingers are long, covers less surface area and is a very dangerous weapon. With the fingers one can poke the assailant in the eyes, throats, solar plexus using a spear hand, and any area of the body. I`m sure everyone has been tickled at one point in your life. How did it feel like when someone accidentally poked you while they tickled you? Painful, right? This was your first lesson in locating sensitive parts of the human body known as pressure points. No matter how muscular you are, these pressure points will never strengthen. So using the fingers to poke the assailant at these pressure points, the assailant will be guaranteed pain and will probably want to leave you alone. The thumbs can also be used to poke your assailant.

Elbow

Probably the strongest part of your arm, the elbow can be used to poke your assailant in the solar plexus, nose, face, stomach, ribs, kidneys, and just about any part of the body. Like the fingers, the elbow covers little surface area and like a hammer, it creates devastating damage to your assailant.

Legs

The legs are the strongest part of the human anatomy. With proper techniques, one can generate power enough to break a person`s ribs, collar bone, and legs. The targets for kicking techniques are the shin, instep, abdomen, head, jaw, collar bone, solar plexus, coccyx or tail bone, thigh, back of the thigh, and back. If you are grabbed tightly by your attacker, use your legs to kick him/her in the shin, stomach or groin depending on your distance.

Knee

Like the elbow, the knee is very powerful. If your attacker grabbed your hands in close quarters and your legs are too long to strike the groin or stomach, strike with your knee.

Tae Kwon Do is a great sport and I encourage all who are interested to learn.

Not only will you learn self-defense, you also get a total body workout leaving you renewed with energy after a long day at work.

About The Author

Eric Tran is the Founder and Developer of bizgoto.com. During his spare time, he enjoys practising Taekwondo, web programming, and enhancing the functionalities of bizgoto.com. If you would like to have your articles posted on bizgoto.com for free, please e-mail eric@bizgoto.com with your article and bio text.

Martial Arts And Self Defense Tips: The Science Of The Fight
By Maria Markella

Most of the people who learn self defense techniques through martial art training do so in order to be able to defend themselves. It's a wild world we live in and self defense skills are important to prevent potential attacks and to give yourself enough self confidence to survive. Although people are looking for martial art training for self defense reasons, most martial arts are based on ancient practices and techniques.

Here are some really cool tips that will help you get the most out of your self defense training:

Control Your Fear
Even if you know the best self defense techniques you are still vulnerable if you haven't developed one significant skill and that is fear control. You need to be ready to stay calm during a physical or verbal attack. There's no training that can simulate a real life situation (e.g. a real attack on the streets). However there are certain martial arts and self defense techniques that will help you control your stress and your fear. These techniques will make you feel a little bit comfortable during a stressful situation (e.g. an act of aggression against you). These fear control techniques involve breathing exercises and hand positioning.

Be Prepared For An Attack
You ought to know that your body sends various signals to others. If you can read your body language then it will be easy to read an attackers body language and be warned of a potential assault before it happens. Some key warning signs of an attack are easily noticed. For example when a person is nervous and looks around him/her all the time, when a person's jaw is clenched or when his/her fingers form a fist. Another warning sign is when someone is hiding his/her hands. Many attackers also change the tone of their voices and speak aggressively when they are about to attack. If you notice such behavior by a person, then you better try to avoid talking or walking close to that person.

Attacked By More Than One Person
There are cases where attacks come from more than one direction (e.g. more than one person attacks you). Self Defense techniques can teach you how to deal with such bad situations. The first thing you must consider when facing multiple attacks is to run away, if this is possible. The odds are against you so do not try to be a hero. Try to keep all attackers in front you so that you can see what's happening. If it's possible try not to be backed into a corner. Do not try to attack first unless you are really skillful at martial arts and self defense. Instead try to keep a defensive but not aggressive stance. In such cases you need to keep your energy reserves high so do not make unnecessary moves.

By Norm Bettencourt

You take with you in combat all the good and bad habits that you learned in your training routine. If your tactics in your training consist of high fancy kicks, wide movements, which require you to have a lot of room you will instinctively do the same when your adrenaline kicks in a street confrontation. That will seriously hinder you if you are fighting for survival in a confined area with furniture around such as a living room or bedroom. Your training should also focus on the mind/spirit as well. Self defense is 90% mental it does not matter how effective your tactics are, if you don’t train your mind for combat you will freeze.

Condition stimulus training is about making your training as real as possible so when your instincts take over in a high adrenaline stressed situation you are ready to use your environment to your advantage and not be hindered by it. Your mind will also be familiar with the stimulus and you will not freeze. Many martial artists and practitioners of self defense programs become overwhelmed when their environment changes from a dojo setting to a small confined area. Being in a room filled with furniture gives a martial artist the feeling of being closed in on and makes them feel that they can not move, so they stiffen. Being in this type of environment changes the way you are going to move or perform a tactic. It is completely different from movement in a dojo where you a vast amount of space.

When you are threatened and your adrenaline kicks in you now unknowingly give 100% faith and trust to your self defense system that it will get you out of harms way. Remember you fight like how you trained if you have trained in traditional systems you will most likely not use your environment to your advantage to defend yourself instead you will be hindered. You will focus on how you can not move and get tied up with objects in a room such as furniture because your training hasn’t prepared you for that type of stimulus. What you wear while training is also a big factor when it comes to be prepared to move in the streets. Many systems get practitioners to wear loose fitting clothing when they practice tactics for the obvious reason of being able to move freely. The downside of this is that when you move on the street wearing boots, jeans and form fitting clothing your range of motion is restricted. You will move much slower and if you are a female wearing heels will be off balance performing tactics because you have not trained yourself to move with heels on

The benefit with training this way is obvious, you give yourself more options, weapons and exits. Your mind is prepared and conditioned for the stimulus that comes its way when violence is presented to it. The more the mind is shown a stimulus the more it is accustomed to it and unfazed it becomes “normal” just like any other everyday event it has experienced.

Should Know About How To Air Bag Suspension
By wirat m.

The truck will lay frame on the ground via a air bag suspension. Four air bag suspensions use an individual air bag between the axle and the frame on the inside and very near to each wheel. the motorcycle main frame about a pivot axis, and an air-bag suspension unit. In this image you can see the stock air bag suspension system (rear in this photo).

That is a stock suspension using an airbag to pre-load the suspension. We stock many different brands of truck air bag suspension. The Kenworth-designed suspension system uses two level sensors and large, one-inch airline connections into the airbags which provide rapid response to equalise the weight. AT suspension system employs a long trailing arm in conjunction with an airbag and shock absorber. Looking for a truck air bag suspension. and an air-bag suspension unit. The air-bag suspension unit includes at least one air bag constructed of an elastomeric material. The air bag suspension results in the longest pavement life, while the walking beam suspension results in the shortest pavement life.

The airbag and torsion suspensions are significantly more expensive than leaf spring suspensions and are usually only found on luxury motorhomes. Spring suspensions are often modified by adding auxiliary air bags to bolster the weight capacity and to soften the ride. Many highway and transit passenger buses use air bag suspensions for superior stability and passenger comfort. Whereas with Kenworth AirGlide airbag suspension, the suspension levels out quickly, maintaining stability without affecting the vehicle. Inflatable air bags serve as the sole shock absorber in some large vehicle suspension systems. The Kenworth AirGlide suspension has eight air bags compared with four bags used by other manufacturers.

The Frieghtliner Chassis with air bag suspension delivers a smooth ride and excellent handling characteristics. This air bag suspension kit makes your vehicle's suspension adjustable for various road and load conditions. Order your air bag suspension kit today! The walking-beam suspension causes more dynamic load variation than the air-bag and leaf-spring suspension. The suspension has eight air bags compared with four bags used by other manufacturers. Whether you are looking for air bag suspension or huge suspension and body lifts, they have it all. This image shows the front suspension with the air bag removed. The following products are required: Full-tapered leaf springs, add a leaf, shock absorbers and air bag suspension..... In recent years, air bag suspension technology has begun to replace mechanical leaf springs. Overall the industry has not had much success historically with air bag suspension because of their instability in agitator work. Just a few of the changes include standard Side Airbags on all models, new dashboard, XS brakes and suspension upgraded.

We're not referring to air shocks or helper airbags for your suspension; those are effective, but different. Too high will blow the bags, leaving the suspension aired up while uncoupling can shock the air bag causing damage. Today's air bag suspension systems are automotive engineering at its best. Given that you aren't ever supposed to exceed that, I installed a four-bag air suspension, just in case. And the components that affect it and it affects 94 seville air bagsuspension problem blew http://www.air-bag-suspension.com/

By J. Barnes

Regardless of your martial arts style or method...you cannot apply it unless you can react quickly and respond instantly. Speed is critical for success in competition and self-defense. Razor-sharp reflexes are often the sole difference between winning and losing a physical confrontation.

By accessing the seven keys to martial arts speed, you can maximize the benefits of your training and improve your skills for competition and self-defense. The absolute best vehicle for accessing the seven keys to martial arts speed is the Speed Loop™ training system.

The Speed Loop is comprised of the seven components of speed and their relationship to each other when applied in competition or self-defense. The Speed Loop training system is designed to isolate, transform, maximize, and integrate the seven attributes of martial arts speed, including:

1. Visual Reflexes: This component focuses on the training methods that will increase your ability to spot openings and track movements. Exceptional visual reflexes allow you to recognize, track, distinguish, adapt to, and counter movements with precision and confidence. In the martial arts, visual reflexes are primarily utilized during long range fighting. In addition, visual reflexes are critical to the success of world-class athletes in all competitive sports.

2. Tactile Reflexes: This component focuses on the training methods that will develop your tactile (touch) reflexes. With practice, you can learn to instantly feel what the opponent is attempting to do by quickly interpreting the direction of his body force. You must anticipate the opponent's every move when you are in the grappling or trapping range. Ninety-five percent of all fights end up in close range. Be prepared!

3. Auditory Reflexes: You can improve your auditory reflexes by enhancing your listening skills. It is important to react quickly to what you hear. In a situation where you must defend yourself against multiple attackers, you will more than likely hear the attack before you see it. If you have ever experienced blind sparring, or fighting in the dark, you know the importance of this attribute.

4. Adaptation Speed: This component deals with your mind's ability to instantaneously select the perfect action in response to an attack or opening. You should develop the ability to instantly select the most effective movements to use at any point during a physical confrontation. Highly developed adaptation speed will allow your reflexes to carry out the movement selection process automatically. With training, you will learn to respond quickly, accurately, and seemingly without thought.

5. Initiation Speed: You must focus on the development of your explosiveness, once you have chosen the correct action to initiate. It's not how fast you move, but how soon you get there that really counts. Your attack may be very fast in flight, but a slow takeoff will severely reduce your chances of effectively landing that attack on target. Train yourself to make your movements felt before they are seen by developing a flawless poker face and the ability to relax at will.

6. Movement Speed: Movement speed is the ability to quickly transfer part or all of your body from one place to another. It is the speed that is most recognized by the public at large. In addition to genetics and body weight, your ability to contract and relax your muscles efficiently will determine your movement speed. Don’t be concerned with “demonstration” speed. Your training should focus on developing the “applied” speed that will help you overwhelm and subdue an opponent in seconds.

7. Alteration Speed: During your training, be sure to engage in drills that will develop the safeguard known as alteration speed. Alteration speed involves the ability to quickly change directions in the midst of movement. Essentially, it involves control of balance and inertia. Through mastery of body mechanics, you can develop the ability to stop your movement instantly…just in case you initiate a wrong move.

In addition to the seven keys, you should incorporate speed hampering drills into your training for complete speed development. Speed Hampering is the ability to effectively slow down the opponent’s reaction time to your attacks. Having good speed hampering skills will enhance your ability to confuse, immobilize, and defeat an opponent.

By focusing on the maximum development of each individual speed component, your training will be more efficient and effective. This will help you develop superior speed and reflexes in the shortest possible time.

Use the innovative Speed Loop training system to improve the seven keys to martial arts speed and you will see a significant improvement in your total speed and reflexes

How To Make The Most Out Of Your Training Session With Tae Kwon Do Equipment
By Muna wa Wanjiru


Tae kwon do is one of the many ways that people exercise to keep in shape. You will find different places where you can get the training that you need. In Tae Kwon Do you will also have various types of tae kwon do equipment available to the interested students. These pieces of equipment are great for learning the different moves of tae kwon do.

While you will find that each discipline of karate to have its own moves and equipment these are different to the Tae Kwon Do equipment. When you are practicing with this equipment you will notice that you need to learn how to coordinate your body so that you make the most out of the training session. As students learn tae kwon do in a series of steps the equipment will be ones that will help you to progress in your training.

When you begin your tae kwon do training it is important that you understand what part the tae kwon do equipment will play in your training sessions. By understanding this role you can prepare yourself for training. In your training sessions you will be shown the appropriate tae kwon do movements so that you don’t cause yourself any serious injurious. In general most of the karate academies have separate tae kwon do equipment which is suitable for karate and tae kwon do students of all levels.

When you look at the different types of tae kwon do equipment you will notice that each piece of equipment which is geared towards helping the students achieve their full potential. For the most part this equipment will be made from wood. While you can get hurt from the wooden equipment the injuries that you sustain will not be too severe.

As your training advances you will find that you have different tae kwon equipment to train with. This change will be adapted to suit your level of expertise. Now as your endurance has built up you will see how well your body has adapted to the use of new equipment. By the time you have reached the final levels of your chosen branch of karate you will be able to use the different equipment in the dojo fluidly and with no problems.

By now you will understand just how important tae kwon do equipment is in the training process of this discipline of karate. These equipment pieces will help you to develop your skill and discipline in your chosen area of karate. For this reason make the most of the tae kwon do equipment.

By Muna wa Wanjiru

Martial arts are an ancient form of exercise that helps people to learn self-discipline and control. This form of exercise is becoming popular with all walks of people. You will find however that each person has their own particular favorite martial arts. In general you will find that while there are lots of different martial arts forms there are some which are more popular. These top ten martial arts varieties will help you to see which ones you have a chance of trying.

Now while you are looking into the different top ten martial arts you will also need to see what the sub divisions are like. This will not prove to be too much of a difficulty as there are some rather well known ones. You can look into these different forms of martial arts if you think that this will be of help.

There is one detail that you will need to think about when you are looking into the list of top ten martial arts. This is that as there is no official list you will find that each person who complies this list has their own idea of what the top ten martial arts are. Generally you will find that karate, tae kown do, ninjitsu are among the more popular martial arts.

These top martial arts have inspired a number of movies and TV programs. From these there are various martial arts movies which can be thought of as being in the top ten martial arts movies. When you see the superb fighting sequences in these programs you will understand why so many people enjoy watching and learning about martial arts.

Each of these top ten martial arts programs has sometimes been changed by other people in order to work them in certain exercise routines. In general these martial arts that you are looking into learning will have many great health benefits. You will have to try out a few to find what can be considered as the top ten martial arts varieties.

Now when you have looked at all of these different top ten martial arts you will see the difference in them. You will also see why martial arts is so popular still with many different people around the world. The next time that someone asks you what you consider to be the top ten martial arts forms to be you can inform them that you are still exploring which ones is known to be better. And that you will let them know once you have found this answer.

Looking Into Buying One Of The Videos Of UFC Knockouts
By Muna wa Wanjiru


UFC knockouts are basically a collection of videos of great martial arts fighting. You can find different versions of these videos while you are on the internet. In these videos you will be able to see different styles of martial arts come into play as these competitive matches help people to see another side to unarmed combat.

Now when you are looking into buying one of the videos of UFC knockouts you may need to read the examples which have been provided. This way you will be able to choose the ones that you like. You should note that some of these knockout movies have been provided by amateur movie producers.

Regardless of this fact the variety of UFC knockouts which you can buy are rather great and a fun way to spend an afternoon. You will have a chance of also buying UFC knockouts which have been provided by people who are well known for their desire to showcase the great athletic abilities of the contestants in these UFC knockouts.

The many different UFC knockouts will provide you with hours of enjoyment as you watch different combatants prove their skill in front of supporters and fans. As you watch these videos you will get a sense of how popular martial arts are with many people. Of course the UFC knockouts will not feature just one type of fighting style.

Instead you will see a wide ranging amount of styles. The main purpose of these UFC knockouts is to let you develop an appreciation for the hard work which goes into training. To ensure that there are no serious injuries to anyone the rules of the competition have been designed for possible eventuality.

Now while there are many people who prefer to watch the UFC knockouts in the comfort of their homes the hardier breed of fans will find out when and where the competition is being help. They will arrive at the competition grounds all ready to cheer their favorite fighter on. These fights will help to show the different styles of martial arts which are known to be very popular.

For those of you that are enthralled by martial arts the UFC knockouts provide an interesting way to see more action. You have the chance of watch the ring side action at your leisure without worrying about any crowds. This is why you will find so many different types of UFC knockouts available for fans to pick up.

The Sort Of Academies You Can Find In The Uk Martial Arts Field
By Muna wa Wanjiru

Many people are fascinated by martial arts. To help people in different parts of the world learn this ancient form of unarmed fighting you will find that each country has many different academies to aid in this process. This means that if you are willing to learn one of the many martial arts in another country like England you will need to see what sort of academies you can find in the UK martial arts field.

Now once you have found the different UK martial arts academies in England you can see what they are offering. You should take note of the level of instruction which is given in these classes. As each person who attends these martial arts classes have varying levels of experience and knowledge it is only sensible to find that the class instructions reflect this to.

With the help of the instructors in the UK martial arts academies you can start your training session in the right way. To get the most out of your training you should make sure that your training progress at a steady rate. By following the training program in a steady manner you will be able to build the endurance levels of your body. This will enable you to perform the different katas which are a signature part of the martial arts.

You will soon be able to perform the right movements with effortless grace. At this point you should also be experienced enough to prevent yourself from causing yourself any serious injurious or even minor injuries.

While there are academies which will teach maybe one or two types of fighting styles you also have UK martial arts academies which train multiple disciplines. In these academies you will find students of all levels learning their particular form of martial arts. Of course you will need to have plenty of time if you want to learn more than one type of martial arts.

For this reason it is best if you take some time to see which of the martial arts forms you prefer to learn at first. Once you have made your decision you will then be able to check which UK martial arts schools can provide you with excellent quality training. As some forms of martial arts are considered as being more popular than others you might need to consider 2 to 3 different schools to pursue your training.

Once you have found the UK martial arts academy where you will be able to learn the next steps you need to focus on is that of training. Once you have begun this training you will notice the healthy difference that is made to your life.

By Rahul Rungta

The guard has been a position utilized in Mixed Martial Arts competitions for a very long time. Although the origins of the position are the subject of much debate, the general consensus is that what we call the guard evolved from Japanese Jujitsu and Judo. Since the position was introduced to Brazilian fighters decades ago, the guard has become a very powerful weapon. Endless submissions and sweeps originate from this seemingly defensive position. To see the guard used to it’s fullest degree, drop into your local Brazilian Jujitsu school. But how effective is the guard in MMA?

Royce Gracie introduced most of us to the guard in the mid nineties when he fought in the original UFC matches. At that time very few people understood what he was doing and how he was able to use this position to tap out his opponents. The crowd was baffled and amazed when time and time again Royce would submit larger opponents from his back. Before long, many fighters would follow suit and the guard would become a staple of MMA bouts.

As the sport evolved, many fans and officials became frustrated with what they considered stalling. Fighters were holding their opponents in the closed guard for entire fights without doing much of anything, which halted the action and slowed the momentum of the fights. Some fighters in MMA became well known for “butt scooting” across the canvas. Audiences typically don’t like this sort of thing. To combat this, officials began to stand up the fighters and enforce a time limit on time spent on the ground without action. The sport evolved once more.

And that brings us to today.

You would be hard pressed to find one MMA fighter that did not have some understanding of guard work. Fighters are much better rounded now, which translates into cross training between disciplines. Even well known stand up fighters are seen working from their backs from time to time. But how effective is the guard now that the rule changes have been implemented and fighters are better versed in it?

It’s hard to say either way. In the past, fighters who were primarily guard players could contain their opponents and wait for them to “gas out” and slip up. Since the pace of the fights is much quicker, guard players must press the action much more. They cannot wait for their opponents to tire any longer. It is much more common now to see guard players like BJ Penn and Nick Diaz attempting a long series of submissions all in a row.

There are some fighters who have a very dominant ground game but choose not to fight from their backs. Many wrestlers tend to fight this way. Matt Hughes is a perfect example of a fighter who avoids going to his back. This fighting style may be more tailored to the modern form of MMA.

On the other side of the coin, many fighters are style enlisting the aid of “guard gurus” like Eddie Bravo and the Gracie family to advance their game. In the last UFC several of the fights ended in submission, many of which where attempted from the back. So, while it is true that some fighters are choosing to lean towards stand-up and ground n pound tactics, many are still choosing to equip themselves with a strong guard game.

It’s been fifteen years since Royce Gracie first introduced us to the guard and its use in MMA competition. Although things have changed quite a bit over the years, the guard remains to be a key element in most fighters’ arsenals. Even those who don’t use the guard certainly seem to respect it.

By Shin Chang

Muay Thai is a Thai mixed martial art form. It has many techniques of fighting. While using Muay Thai techniques, also known as "Mae Mai Muay Thai," fighters use the entire body including fists, elbows, shins, feet and knees.
The basic Muay Thai training techniques include punch techniques (jab, straight right/cross, hook and uppercut), elbow techniques (horizontal, diagonal-upwards, diagonal-downwards, uppercut, downward, backward-spinning and flying) and kicking techniques (push kick, roundhouse kick, etc.). The following are some special Muay Thai techniques:

The Clinch

This technique is exclusively used in Muay Thai fights. While combating the fighter applies this technique by holding his opponent either around the neck and head or around the body. It is known as Thai clinch.
To apply the clinch, the fighter has to hold his opponent either around the neck and head or around the body. The fighter also has to press his forearm against his opponent's collar bone while his hands are around the latter's head rather than his neck.

A common clinching technique used in Muay Thai fights is to just tap the head downward then give a throw. The fighter can also throw the opponent to his left in case the latter is using a knee from the right. It can cause the opponent to lose his balance.
The Kru

This is a tough technique. A new fighter takes a lot of training and hard work to learn this technique. The technique is provided by the fighter’s Krue or Thai boxing training. The trainer makes the fighter work hard and learn the technique. It is a tradition for the fighter to express his respect to his trainer through a ritual called Wai Kru.

There are some elements that are part of Muay Thai training techniques. These include:-

•Running – A trainee has to run 18 km running per day (around 12 km in the first half and around 6 km in the second half).
•Stretching – The trainee has also to do stretching for around 20-30 minutes. It improves muscular elasticity and reduces the stretch reflex.
•Shadow boxing – This training includes around 20 minutes of shadow boxing. Shadow boxing is usually practiced in front of a mirror.

Muay Thai training takes a lot of hard work. To become a good fighter young people have to go through a lot of physical and mental strain. It takes sheer dedication, commitment, and “never-say-die” attitude that a trainee transforms himself into a sound Muay Thai fighter.

By: James Dunn

Self defense is such a broad term that the history of it cannot be pinned down in the least. It is safe to say, however, that the broad spectrum of self defense can be considered as having come from the dawn of time even the earliest forms of human had to learn how to protect themselves and teach their strategies to others. From there self defense evolved into less primitive forms and into delineated and disciplined forms, such as with martial arts. There really is a style of defense for everybody whether it be women's self defense, kickboxing, street fighting or even martial arts.

Women's self defense is one of the most popular forms of defense, and it too is a broad term in and of itself. Women's self defense can employ many techniques from several different styles of general defense, including but not limited to martial arts. Women's self defense mainly teaches women how to protect themselves against unwanted attackers and usually employs more evasive maneuvers rather than one-on-one strikes because the theory is that if a woman gets attacked, she is not going to want to fight her attacker face to face, she will need to employ a strategy that will best allow her to remove herself from the situation.

Women's self defense can usually be taught in just a few classes and many local YMCA centers will offer it; it is the perfect solution for women that do not want to take up learning an entire martial art but still want to protect themselves.

Street fighting is another form of self defense that can sometimes be taught in classes, but to its namesake, is more often learned by other s on the street. Similar to the martial art Krav Maga, the sole purpose of street fighting is to bring down the opponent and incapacitate them so they are not able to attack again using any means available. If that means a throw to the ground, then that is what must be used but other times, more desperate or harsh methods must be used.

Unfortunately, street fighting (again, like Krav Maga) is one of the more brutal forms of self defense and it usually doesn't matter if the opponent or attacker is seriously hurt or maimed; in fact, that is the objective most of the time. For this reason, street fighting is not one of the forms of defense that can double as a sport and practiced for fun. It is best to learn it and keep the knowledge tucked away for a time in which it is truly necessary.

It is a good idea for everyone to be schooled in at least one form of self defense. The main philosophy behind defense, regardless of the form, is this: do not hurt the other person unless it is absolutely unavoidable and necessary. Contrary to popular belief, if everyone learned just a little bit of proper self defense, there would be a lot less violence to go around.

Keyword Articles: http://www.keywordarticles.org

By: James Dunn

Fortunately, the history of Taekwondo is more easily traced than many other forms of martial arts. Since it is a newer and more recent martial art, the origins are fairly well documented and allow for thorough study of its origins and history. Taekwondo is primarily a Korean martial art, having been created during the early years after the end of the Korean War. Before this modern inception of Taekwondo, however, early forms of martial arts similar to Taekwondo and having served as the basis of Taekwondo were running rampant.

If one is looking that far back (to the earliest ancestors to Taekwondo), it is there that the history does, in fact, get a little murky. Taekwondo is such a universal art and it has "borrowed" techniques from many other martial arts during the years (and centuries) that the "parent" art of Taekwondo is not well known at all. Taekwondo is better thought of as a culmination of many Korean, Japanese and Chinese influences (however, the influences are mainly Korean) to form one very well-rounded and well thought out martial arts curriculum.

One of the reasons that Taekwondo's parent arts are obscure is that many of them were banned during the years in which Japan had control over the majority of Korea (between 1910 and 1945). For example, the strictly traditional Korean martial arts such as Subak and Taekkyon were prohibited from being practiced or taught in Japan's effort to force Korea to assimilate to Japanese culture (Koreans were also forced to disregard their own language and take on Japanese names in place of their own). Subak and mainly Taekkyon were still practiced and taught in secret, however, many moves and techniques may have been changed to alter the style enough so that the Koreans would not get caught.

Of course, after the Korean war, modern Taekwondo (it was at this point that Taekwondo received its current name) began to take its place among Korea and other countries as well. It was around the year 1955, after many Taekwondo schools became popular in Korea that Taekwondo began gaining popularity in the United States as well. No one really expected Taekwondo to become as popular as it did in the Western world, and as a martial art form, it is as well known and well practiced in the United States as Karate and Kung Fu.

Even more proof towards the gaining popularity of Taekwondo is that it is one of two martial arts to be an official Olympic game the other martial art is Judo. Some dojangs focus more on practicing and teaching their students the martial art of Taekwondo to prepare them for tournaments and competitions and other dojangs focus more on learning the martial art itself. It is important that anyone interested in Taekwondo find the proper dojang for his or herself. While emphasis on philosophy and virtues are not as prevalent in Taekwondo as in other martial arts, they are present and go back to the original inception of Taekwondo itself.

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Heavy Bag training for Mixed Martial Arts, Self Defence and Fitness by S.Ward c/o themmaforums.com
By: Simon Ward

Heavy Bag training for Mixed Martial Arts, Self Defence and Fitness.

by 'Smash' c/o www.themmaforums.com

The Heavy Bag is most often used suspended from a ceiling but should also be used on the ground to practice ground striking as well. It can be punched, kicked, kneed and elbowed. Used correctly it can improve the power of your striking and gives a great cardio workout as well, but if used improperly can cause injuries.

The Self-Defence benefits of Heavy Bag training

Striking the heavy bag can develop great fight related qualities but is nothing like a real combat situation. The strikes used against the heavy bag are what's known as Gross Motor Skills meaning they are simple actions using large muscle groups and when used under an Adrenal Dump status (the bodies Fight or Flight response) will often result in a greater performance in terms of strength and endurance.

Training your striking skills can lead to an increased confidence in your ability to strike an opponent which can be beneficial to those whom may be reluctant to fight back or suffer greatly under the bodies adrenal responses.

Good strike training, against the heavy bag, pads and sparring with partner(s) builds competence and confidence and develops 'muscle memory' so when confronted by an assailant gives the ability for the body to strike as it does in training without the person making a concious effort to strike with these developed skills.

AnAerobic Training

Anaerobic training is training at such an intensity that the body is unable to keep up with it's oxygen requirements and so can only be carried out for a short period of time. Carrying out this type of training on the heavy bag both leads to an increased time in being able to carry out a 'flurry' of strikes and also develops the important factor of a 'determination to win'. Driving yourself to carry on with every single ounce of determination, mental stamina and 'grit' you can muster.

Note: This type of training is intense and should not be carried out unless you have a good foundation of conditioning and striking mechanics. Sprained wrists are a common injury sustained in this type of training.

Heavy Bag training for fitness

A good heavy bag training program improves your cardiovascular system, improves muscle strength, bone density, connective tissue strength and also burns calories and fat. By incorporating punching, elbowing, knees and kicks into your traing regime you use all the major muscle groups within the body. Arms, shoulders, abdominals, hip flexors and the leg muscles become both conditioned and also develop coordination.

Stress Management Benefits of Heavy Bag Training

The evolution of mankind has created our brain and bodies to react in a pre-programmed response to danger and is most commonly termed 'Fight or Flight' and causes a host of responses in the body to allow us to either run at a higher speed (flight), or fight at a higher level of intensity (fight). When confronted with danger this is a good thing, but is often mistaken as 'fear'. Today's modern lifestyles often cause the triggering of this pre-programmed response when it isn't needed or wanted, being stuck in a traffic jams, arguments at home can all be triggers for the response.

Also the response causes the body to release toxins which if not used up, cause what is commonly known as 'stress'. Physical exercise is required to flush this 'fight or flight' residue from our bodies before it compromises our health and immune system. Vigorous exercise, such as heavy bag training gives the exertion needed to burn off this residue and return the mind and body to a healthier state.

Take this training, turn up the music and destroy your 'opponent'. Remove all this negative 'energy' from within you and turn it into anger to destroy your imaginary opponent and allow Endorphins to give you that 'feel good' post workout sensation.

Precautions to consider when Heavy Bag Training

Like any form of exercise if taken to extremes, heavy bag training can be counter productive and involve risks. It is designed to 'build you up', increase your strength, your fitness and your health.

Just as impatient weight trainers damage their joints and strain their muscles, or runners who increase their mileage too quickly can suffer shin splints, bag training is exactly the same. Make sure you execute your strikes with proper form to maximise your gains whilst reducing the risks, this will allow you to continue your training for a much longer period of time.

The two types of athletic injuries most common with physical training are 'chronic' and 'acute'. Chronic injuries develop and last over an extended period. Training improperly, too intensely, or too often causes them. When your body is stressed through exercise, it must be given time to recover and rebuild itself in order to become more efficient and be ready to be trained again.

When your training too hard or not resting for sufficient time between your training sessions, you will develop overtraining injuries. It's imperative that you realize that the bodies muscles adapt much faster than the connective tissues and that striking puts a great deal of stress on these connective tissues. Your advances in speed and power will quickly exceed the capacities of your bones, tendons, ligaments and joints. This can result in torn muscles, chronic joint pain and even result in permanent injuries.

Acute injuries like a sprained wrist or a broken bone occur suddenly. The risk of these injuries should be reduced with proper form and of course common sense. Technique comes before speed and power. There isn't a need to smash the heavy bag as hard as you can every time you train. Concentrate on good body mechanics and allow the speed and power to develop by itself. Begin slowly and allow your speed and power to gradually increase and as always allow your body to adapt and become able to handle these stresses.

Avoiding bad practice

Often when people train on the heavy bag their proper technique goes out the window. Feet come off the ground, the body is badly aligned, they wind up their strikes like a baseball pitcher .Don't exaggerate your movements and keep your techniques correct. Apart from the risk of injuries, your practising of these bad techniques will result in incorrect 'muscle memory' and so when you use your techniques against a real opponent, you will leave yourself open to counter attack.

Telegraphing of your techniques

Telegraphing means you make obvious preparations to throw a technique, cocking your fist back before throwing a punch is a good example. As the bag doesn't fight back people often forget the importance of being able to strike your opponent without signalling your intention to do so.

Failing to defend

Because the bag doesn't hit back people drop often their guard when practicing. Keep your hands up at all times and concentrate on not just the attacking part of a technique, that's the easy bit, concentrate of maintaining a good defence as well. Do this with every strike you throw and slowly but surely you will do this automatically over time. Keep moving in and out of range, visualise your opponent doing the same and keep your head moving, don't just move straight back, move side to side, up and down.

Pushing instead of hitting the bag

A common mistake when hitting the bag is to follow through too deeply and push, rather than hit the bag. A punch or kick increases in speed from start of it's movement through until it's fully extended. The further an arm or leg for example moves, the faster and more powerful it will be. Strike the bag at the point near full extension. Penetrate it no more than a few inches beyond the surface and generate a "popping" sound on impact. Never lock out the limbs else you will hyper extend the joint and cause problems in the joint and it's connective tissues.

Holding your breath

People often hold their breath which is a bad habit. First it reduces your endurance by starving your body of the oxygen it needs. Secondly you increase thoracic pressure which can result in you injuring yourself. Exhale as you strike. This prevents the holding of your breath and improves your techniques power by tensing the muscles of your torso which are responsible for a great deal of the power in your strikes.

Always warm up and cool down

Warming up improves your performance and reduces the risk of injuries and post-exercise muscle soreness. Before exercising intensely work up a light sweat and engage in some basic limbering exercises to increase blood flow, your range of motion and to lubricate your joints. Jumping rope, 'running on the spot' and shadow boxing for 10 or 15 minutes are good ways to begin your workout. (Note: don't do extensive stretching during the warm up. It can compromise joint stability and make you more susceptible to injury. Leave vigorous stretching until the end of your workout). steadily cooling down at the end of your workout returns your system (breathing and heart rate etc) to a resting state. Never finish an intense workout and then just stop. The cool down is a time to work on your flexibility with stretching exercises and should be thoroughly enjoyed as flexibility is important, especially in MMA when the ranges and techniques involved range a great deal.

Some ideas for creating a training regime

There are a variety of Martial Arts from which MMA fighters source their striking techniques. The most common one though is Muay Thai but MMA fighters must adapt their footwork as they need to defend from a takedown and wrestling techniques attempts made by their opponent.

Repetition based training: Learn the basic strikes, kicks, knees, elbows and punches and create combinations you want to practice. Perform sets and reps of each. For example, execute two sets of 20 lead punches, three sets of 20 roundhouse kicks, etc. Rest long enough between sets to catch your breath and move on to the next.

Time-based Training: Another excellent way to train is to work for a time limit or set number of rounds. For example, execute either random strikes or pre-determined combinations continuously for 2 to 3 minute rounds with 1-minute rest period in between.

Circuit Training: Circuit training is good if you are already in good shape, consider alternating your bag work with other exercises to form a circuit. However, don't alternate with weight lifting exercises because the muscle fatigue will make you more susceptible to injury. For example alternate 3-5 minutes of jumping rope with 3-5 minutes of bag work. Complete as many cycles as you need to get a good workout.

AnAerobic Training: AnAerobic training should be reserved for those who have established a high level of fitness and proper striking mechanics. This training involves intense barrages of strikes for a time limit (15 to 30 seconds+) or a rep goal (20 to 30 repetitions of a combination). This training is as mental as it is physical as mentioned earlier. There are significant benefits to this "stop/start" or interval-based training. You exert yourself for a brief, intense period, recover, and then exert yourself again. This training improves your ability to recover quickly, increases the efficiency of your muscular and anaerobic energy systems and elevates your metabolism (burning body fat) for several hours post workout.

Frequency and intensity

Heavy bag training, like other forms of exercises, stresses the body. Training too intensely can surpass the body's (joints, tendons, ligaments, muscles, nervous system) ability to recover. I recommend that heavy bag training be limited to 2 or 3 times per week. The more intensely you train, the more time off you should take between workouts. It is a good idea to alternate intense workouts with easier ones.

I hope this short introduction into Heavy Bag training gives you an idea on how to use it both correctly and safely.


Disclaimer : The author accepts no responsibility whatsoever for anything related to this article. Consult your doctor before starting any type of exercise.

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By: Chris Pizzo

Like many people over the Memorial Day weekend I took time out to remember our nation's fallen heroes, but afterwards I went to a friend's house to enjoy a barbecue.

The food was great and except for the whining of a few liberals I had a great time. At one point a friend of a friend came over to pick my brain about martial arts. He wanted to improve his health and get back into shape without injuring his back again.

He wanted to learn a good sport martial art that would give him a workout, but also teach him self defense. He looked confused when I told him that he wouldn't be learning self defense, and the best he could hope for from most martial arts schools was a good workout.

The fact is most people don't realize that sport combatives like boxing, mixed martial arts, wrestling and fencing are just sports.

I am not taking anything away from them by any means.

All take a lot of skill, training, and heart to compete in, but at the end of the day they only simulate real life combat.

In boxing for example, there are rules governing what moves a fighter can and cannot use in a match.

Head butts, elbows, and biting are all fouls that could end a boxing match, but are perfectly acceptable in a street fight for self defense.

In Kendo, a shinai (bamboo practice sword) can pass across the neck and do no damage in a match, but in real life it could sever an artery ending the fight.

Sports are games and they are meant to be fun. And no matter how competitive they might be, nobody is ever supposed to get hurt or die.

I had to laugh some weeks back when I saw a website advertising deadly mixed martial arts (MMA) techniques that had been banned by Ultimate Fight Championships (UFC).

Of course they had been banned from the UFC because it is a sport. And as difficult as it is, as great as those athletes are, it is simply not kill or be killed combat.

So what happens when things escalate to kill or be killed combat?

Where do combative sports fit in?

And is it even worth your time to do these sports?

Listen, if you train in combat sport, just realize that it is not self defense training.

Sure combat sports have striking, grappling, and weapon usage, but they are just the beginning of real close combat training.

But what is VITALLY important for even the most die-hard self-defense or martial arts junkie is that it is ONLY combat sport that can provide the conditioning for actual combat.

The two MUST fit hand in hand with one another; otherwise both camps are kidding themselves.

A chilling example of this principle involves the first family to fall victim to the BTK (Bind, Torture and Kill) serial killer Dennis Rader.

It was January 15, 1974 when 15-year-old Charlie Otero came home and found his mother father and his younger brother and sister dead at home. The victims had been tortured before being killed and the females had been masturbated on by the killer.

In the years to come this modus operandi would become all too familiar to the police in and around Wichita Kansas.

As the police investigated the Otero family murders they found no reason for the murders, and the family was by no means an easy target. Joseph Otero, 38, had been a career Air Force man and an excellent boxer.

His wife Julie, 34, had extensive Judo training, and all the children were known to be skilled in the sport as well.

People that knew the family thought they were well trained in self defense, but they weren't. They had no idea how to deal with a killer like Rader as they were conditioned to fight with rules, regulations, and etiquette.

Again, if interested, use combative sport training as a fun, entertaining way to get fit. But unless you plan on bringing a referee to that critical moment when you will be called upon to defend yourself and your family, I suggest tuning off the pay-per-view crap and investing in some REAL self defense training.

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The Benefits of Training in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)
By: Jason OConnor

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a combination of karate, grappling, wrestling, Tang Soo Do, boxing, jujitsu, Tae Kwon Do and more all combined in one. Mixed martial arts, in its modern form, emerged in 1993 through the Ultimate Fighting Championships and was based on pitting different fighting styles against each other with minimal rules to determine which system would be better in a real, unregulated combat situation.

During the late 1990s, the governing bodies imposed extra rules for the safety of the athletes and to try to promote the sport and gain wider acceptance, but still maintaining the no holds barred idea. MMA has grown rapidly in the last few years with many people both young and old realizing the many benefits of mixed martial arts both physical and mental and this has seen enrollments in classes increasing worldwide.

MMA is classed as a combat sport, but it's a sport that stresses the ideals of fair play and respect for your opponent still. However, MMA are still quite often wrongly known as vicious and brutal.

Regardless of MMA's reputation, the competition is relatively safe. Due to the rules and regulations imposed and strictly enforced and the tough mental and physical conditioning of the opponents there has never been a death or indeed a critical injury report by the MMA as directly linked to any tournament.

Martial arts are great for the body. Regular training strengthens and tones the muscles and adds flexibility. Training in martial arts gives you a full cardio work out. You can expect to greatly increase your strength and stamina and improve your hand eye coordination. Martial arts is a good weight loss program as well because it becomes a complete system in which a healthy diet is part and when combined with the extreme physical activity proper weight loss is assured.

Classes are run at schools, dojos, youth groups organizations, church groups, and other, less formal settings. MMA is also being incorporated into many gyms as mixed martial arts become more popular.

A typical class will have you start with a warm up consisting of various stretching exercises, trunk rotations, jumps, squats and abs tightening exercises. Then there will be a series of movements taught and explained in full. Sparring is controlled and protective gear is worn, such as helmets, gloves and guards.

At other times a bag will be used for practicing kicks, jabs and punches. Although you may feel awkward and unfit at first, it will not take long before your fitness and skill level improves, along with your frame of mind.

People who practice MMA feel and look healthier, but there are far more benefits than the physical side. While many think of martial arts as violent, in the mainstream it is used as self defense. It does not encourage violence but teaches the student how to control anger and how to use self control and restraint.

Students are taught self discipline and the rigors of training builds character and self-confidence, which ultimately reduces temper induced rages that can often be the cause of many street fights. This confidence carries over into everyday life and as a result mixed martial arts students tend to be become better people than they were.

Mixed martial arts training teaches you that you must control the powers that you have had the privilege of learning and never use it recklessly or without thought. Students are also taught that before any success is achieved they will fail many times and that practiced and perseverance is the key. This is a valuable lesson to learn and will often carry over into other endeavors the student undertakes.

Furthermore, the training teaches you that every person is responsible for his own actions and must understand and abide by the given rules. This kind of training improves one's actions in life as well as in martial arts training and tournaments. Many of these arts build a spiritual life into the training, with courtesy, self-control, perseverance and integrity emphasized in the classes. So much so that many Christian Church groups are running mixed martial arts classes for their youth organizations due to the character building characteristics in martial arts training that are also much a part of Christian beliefs.

Given all this, it is no wonder that so many parents are enrolling their children in mixed martial arts classes today. They see their children's health and fitness improve, something their child's peers often lack. And they also witness their children's mindset, attitudes to life and self-improvement, respect and courage all improve as well.

Anyone who trains in karate, jujitsu, Tae Kwon Do or any of the arts will gain these benefits. If you have any desire to improve your body and mind at the same time with only one activity, then martial arts is something you ought to seriously consider. You don't just get in shape physically, but also mentally and spiritually. No gym workout can compare. All across the world, adults are joining dojos and thoroughly enjoying the many benefits of mixed martial arts.

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By: Chris Pizzo

On Friday February 23, 2007, a 70-year-old man exemplified the motto of the Marine Corp League, "Once a Marine, Always a Marine." When three thugs boarded a tourist bus in the Costa Rican city of Limon armed with a gun and knives they must have thought the twelve senior citizens onboard were easy prey. They were dead wrong. And I mean D-E-A-D.

After witnessing a 20 year old terrorist put a gun to a female passenger's head, Allen Clady, a former Marine made his move. The senior citizen grabbed a hold of the thug and strangled the much younger thug with such force that he broke his collarbone and killed the man. This prompted the other senior citizens on the bus to begin fighting back and the other two assailants run off the bus.

So, how could a 70-year-old man could take on, and kill, a much younger armed opponent? The answer lies in his old-school Marine Corp training.

The Marines recently introduced a new system for close quarters combat called the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP). This new sissy system is supposedly for peacekeeping operations in urban areas and theoretically allows for a wide variety of situations where a Marine needs to use non-lethal force.

Prior to the development of this new crap that will undoubtedly get more than one leather neck sent home in a body bag, the Marines used more lethal techniques originally developed by Major Anthony Biddle.

His techniques standardized close combat techniques for the Marines and were based on boxing, wrestling and fencing. In addition, Captains W.M. Greene and Samuel B. Griffith shared what they learned about martial arts from William Fairbairn while stationed in China.

Being a former Marine, Allen Clady learned the Corp's old (and real) style of close combat that emphasizes taking down an opponent hard, fast, and permanently. It is most likely that Clady over took the thug from behind with a "Japanese strangle". The forefather of the sporting "rear naked choke" as seen in MMA competition today, this simplistic and deadly old-school strangle was very popular among military trained martial artists and pre-WWII Judo and Jujutsu practitioners.

In seconds of his arms locking around the thug's esophagus and throat, the would be terrorist began to choke on his own spit and drop unconscious. This technique is even more devastating if the person employing the technique is taller then their opponent, because it takes little effort to take someone off their feet, thus making the strangle work that much quicker.

Another good reason to strangle the thug from the rear like this was because the punk was armed. While the thug did fire two shots off into the air before the gun jammed, the moment Clady had his hands on the thug's throat he immediately had control of the situation. When the bus driver drove to a local Red Cross clinic, the gun wielding maniac was declared dead. Thanks to Clady's swift action, only the gunman was injured and the tour group returned to their cruise ship and safety.

When asked if anyone on the bus would be charged with a crime. Local Police Chief Luis Hernandez said, "They were in their right to defend themselves." It is clear that the chief understand that the police cannot be everywhere, and that stopping a criminal is not a crime.

It takes an example like Allen Clady to remind everyone that with the right training anyone can fight back. What happened on that tour bus was clearly a life and death situation and Allen Clady chose life. Those animals did not care who they had to hurt to get what they wanted and Mr. Clady attacked to prevent people from being hurt. This just goes to show you that swift decisive action combined with good solid training can save the day...regardless of age or physical fitness.

While Allen Clady has not spoken publicly about this incident at the time of this article I can almost guarantee that he was not trying to be a "hero". He was simply protecting people who needed help, and is a credit to both his generation and to the Marine Corp. Too many people willingly would have become victims, but he stood up and went into battle mode. He was not acting like hero he was acting like a man.

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Using the Kubotan Self-Defense Keychain as a Model for Using Everyday Items to Protect Yourself
By: Jeffrey Miller

One of the key elements that separates the Ninja's self-protection methods, including the study of weapons like the Kubotan self-defense keychain, from many other approaches to self-defense training is the concept of "strategic thinking." And one of the ways that this important mindset manifests is through the ability to see through the "form" to what's really going on.

In the case of weapons training, the Ninja aspirant works to see any particular weapon, not as a specific weapon limited to a certain form and function, but as a model for the use of any other weapon or object of similar shape and size. An example of this might be to see a knife, not just as a knife, but as a sword with an extremely short blade. Or to "see" a cane or short-stick weapon as a sword without an edge. This alternate "sight" allows the Ninja warrior to expand his or her knowledge and options and employ the weapon in ways that confuse and surprise their attacker. It also vastly expands the number of techniques and options at the Ninja's disposal.

Instead of making a list of all of the weapons that might be contained within a certain "style" of training, the Ninja instead employs a system by which all weapons are placed into 5 basic classifications. These classifications are:

1. Bladed - Including swords, knives, and even broken bottles. Anything that "cuts."

2. Stick - Including staffs, staves, canes, shorter sticks, and even items like rolled up magazines and umbrellas. Any item the "clubs."

3. Flexible - This class of weapons includes such weapons as chains, ropes, and everyday items like belts and even open newspapers. The idea here is anything that can be manipulated to whip, tie, and bind an opponent.

4. Projectile - Weapons that, in whole or in part, fly and allow the Ninja defender to extend his or her ability to reach the assailant across larger distances. Traditional weapon in this catagory include the bow and arrow, spears and javelins, shuriken ("throwing stars") and blowgun darts. Modern equivalants to these are the gun, certain throwing knives and blades, and even items like drink coasters, ashtrays and tea saucers, and coins.

And...

5. Combination - The greatest thing about the Ninja mindset is that there is NO such thing as a finite or limted list. That means that a Ninja, though he may say that he has '16 Body Weapons," the list that follows will always contain an element that is open-ended. In the case of weapons, the "combination" class contains weapons that cross boundaries and bring together elements of two or more of the preceding classes.

This classification includes weapons like the spear and halberd (staff and bladed weapons), nunchaku (although NOT a Ninja weapon, is a bringing together of the stick and flexible classes), and even the secret Ninja weapon known as the Kyoketsu-shoge (a double-bladed knife connected to a metal ring by a 12 - 18 foot section of rope - combining elements of the bladed, flexibles and projectile classes.

Since this article focuses on the self-defense keychain weapon, we'll stay within the "stick" classification. In a recent seminar that I taught, focusing on the use of the Kubotan self-defense keychain, students were able to see, first-hand, how this strategy works in the real world. After learning some basic techniques with the actual Kubotan weapon, my students were shown a variety of every day items that could be used as substitutes for the actual, "official" weapon.

Students found that such common, easy-to-find items, like:

1. Rulers...

2. Pens...

3. Markers...

4. Lipstick cases...

5. Small flashlights

...and even parts of other weapons like a...

5. Knife pommel...

6. Handgun grip, and...

7. Weight of a kusari-fundo 'chain-weapon'

Could all be brought into service in many of the same ways as the little weapon they were learning to use.

It is this concept of seeing the "universality-of-technique" and application that gives the Ninja practitioner seemingly magical abilities, not just when using a weapon like the Kubotan, but in all areas, that makes them stand-apart from the conventional tactics, techniques, and strategies being used by most fighters, martial artists, and self-defense students.

The key to success, in any field, is not limited by what you know or have But, in how you apply it that makes the difference.

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7 Really Good Reasons You Need to Learn to Use the Kubotan Self-Defense Keychain
By: Jeffrey Miller

Ironically, in a world filled with terrorism, assault, rape, and murder, I have to write an article giving people reasons why they should be learning self-defense or the Kubotan personal-protection weapon. But then, if I didn't, who would?

I hear questions concerning which techniques are best and what weapon should I be training with if I'm concerned about XYZ? If you have questions like these, perhaps this article can help.

Since this article focuses on the self-defense weapon most commonly known as the Kubotan, my answers will be along those line. So, just in case you've ever asked questions like...

"Which self-defense weapon is best for the beginner or untrained person?"

"Why should I learn to use the Kubotan self-defense keychain?" Or...

"What's so special about the Kubotan?"

Here are some of the answers I came up with off the top of my head:

1. It's one of the easiest weapons to learn and use.

If you're concerned about self-protection, you don't have the luxery of time on your side. Where a student seeking to learn a martial art for confidence-building, discipline, or for purely asthetic reasons can take all the time he or she needs, you need to find techniques and, in this case, weapons that can be picked up and mastered in the quickest time possible.

2. Short of picking up a rock or a stick, it's one of the cheapest weapons to buy or make.

Cost is another factor for many people. Of course, if you can afford it and they're legal where you live, nothing beats a handgun for making sure you have the advantage in a self-defense situation, regardless of what anybody says. But, for many, expense, age, and restrictive laws make this a problem. So, the easiest thing to do is find something that will work for you without a lot of expense in time, money, or effort.

3. It instantly gives a smaller defender a serious advantage over a larger, stronger assailant.

Nothing brings a larger assailant to his knees (not to mention tears) like a well-placed piece of metal. When used properly agains the many weak points and sensitive areas of the human body, the Kubotan is right up there as a formidable weapon, especially for the smaller defender.

4. It's easily concealable, allowing it seemingly come out of "nowhere" to surprise and confuse the attacker.

You don't always want to be obvious in a self-defense situation. It makes it too easy for the attacker to prevent you from carrying out your way-cool move. The small, easily-concealable Kubotan can slip into spaces and damage areas of the assailant's body that he can't see or protect until it's too late.

5. It's legal to carry in most areas.

From a purely practical standpoint, legality should be the last thing you're worried about when it comes to defending yourself. After all, is the criminal acting in a legal and responsible way when he or she attacks you? But... If this is a concern, the generally acceptable nature of the Kubotan makes it a great choice as a personal protection weapon.

6. If it's not legal where you live, it's easily substituted by a wide array of every day items that are the same shape and/or size.

Just because the law says that you can own, carry, or use a certain type of weapon, doesn't mean that you can find plenty of legal items in everyday use that make perfect substitutes. Learn to think outside the box and don't let something as simple as a "prohibited weapon list" prevent you from learning a valuable skill.

7. It would be stupid not to.

Of course, this also means that not learning to defend yourself in general is, not only stupid, also not very responsible as an adult who should be able to handle their own problems and take care of themselves in this big, bad world.

In a self-defense situation, assailants typically brandish a weapon, not to use it, but to gain an advantage by merely showing it. Having even a simple weapon, like the Kubotan, evens the odds and can even tip them in your favor.

So, the next time you're wondering whether or not you should consider adding the simple-looking, yet amazingly powerful Kubotan self-defense keychain to your self-defense arsenal...

...the answer is a resounding, "Yes!"

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By: Jon Murray

If you're a mixed martial arts fan, you're probably sick of that headline. You're sick of hearing how Lorenzo J. Fertitta and Frank J. Fertitta have purchased PrideFC from it's former Dream Stage Entertainment owners and ousted former CEO Nobuyuki Sakakibara. You want to hear more about what is possible the biggest month in Mixed Martial Arts history, April 2007.

There are four shows worth mentioning in April, in addition to season 5 of "The Ultimate Fighter". These shows are:

April 5, 2007 - Ultimate Fight Night 9

This show features a bout between Joe Stevenson and Melvin Guillard. These two 155 pound fighters are at the cusp of becoming superstars in the UFC lightweight division. A win in this bout, then perhaps one more and one of these guys might be ready for a title shot. There is also another interesting match on this card, featuring the return of Kenny Florian after his beat down, courtesy of UFC lightweight champion Sean Sherk. Kenny Florian is facing Dokonjonosuke Mishima.

April 7, 2007 - UFC 69: Shootout

Everybody is waiting to see what Georges St Pierre has in store for Matt "The Terror" Serra. St Pierre completely dominated Matt Hughes in his last outing, earning him the UFC welterweight belt. Serra on the other hand, barely squeaked by Chris Lytle to get the season 4 "Ultimate Fighter" title at 170. This could be an interesting match, but most expect another St Pierre blow out.

The most interesting match of UFC 69 will put Diego Sanchez' undefeated record on the line against super-wrestler Josh Koscheck. These guys have met before, but Josh was a pure wrestler at that point, he's had a couple of years of MMA experience now, let's see who's better now. Other big names on that card include Mike Swick, Kendall Grove, Heath Herring, Brad Imes and expect a great match between Josh "I never quit" Haynes and Luke Cummo.

April 8, 2007 - Pride 34 Kamikaze

This event isn't nearly as interesting as it could be. The main thing that does make it interesting is the 10th anniversary and resignation of Sakakibara, all in the same show. Expect and emotional show with a lot of "Pride Past" clips. If you're not a Pride fan, you soon will be, watching this show would be excellent research into what the Pride fighters bring to the table. Unfortunately it's being shown live at 3:00am my time, bring on the coffee! The feature bout will be Sokoudjou vs Arona. Sokoudjou KO's little Nog in his last outing and Arona is a perennial contender. Perhaps he has the most to win by the UFC owners purchasing pride. His solid ground game could be trouble for a lot of the UFC's current 205 pound division.

Pride is also featuring a freak show match between Butterbean and Zulu, personally, I'm not interested.

April 21, 2007 UFC 70: Nations Collide

Finally, the show which will determine the future of the UFC heavyweight division. Mirko Cro Cop vs Gabriel Gonzaga will determine who meets Randy Couture for the title. Look for Cro Cop to dominate this one, but as always in MMA, never count any fighter out of any fight. There are a number of other interesting names on this card. Look for Michael Bisping "Ultimate Fighter" season 4 winner facing Elvis Sinosic in a match, seemingly designed to set up Bisping for a future title shot. Andrei Arlovski will face Fabricio Werdum which could end up being the fight of the night. Cheick Kongo will try to redeem himself after a decision loss when he faces Assuerio Silva. Let's hope Cheick comes out swinging.

That's it, a great month of great fights, and I barely even mentioned the big UFC - Pride purchase. For those of you sick of the UFC - Pride headlines, you'd better get used to it, it's here to stay and will remain the big story in MMA for months.

Take it easy and enjoy the fights!

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Martial Arts Training for Real Self-Defense: Making Sense of Chaos
By: Jeffrey Miller

I once had a talk with a student who pointed out the almost insane notion that anyone could think that they could use a preset string of moves (known as a kata, pronounced kah-tah) to handle something as chaotic as a fight. He said it made no sense to him how any master, who really knew what he was talking about, could pass down "the answer" to such an unknown as a fight.

He's right. And yet, day after day, in countless schools, training centers, police departments, and military units around the world, there are those who believe that what they are learning will be exactly what they need to win, should they ever be attacked.

Can you imagine, for those of you who have yet to be accosted, what it feels like inside the heart of an attack? I mean, what do you know about the situation that you haven't been in yet?

Unless you're clairvoyant and can see into the future - in which case you wouldn't need self-defense training because you would either...

1) know what to avoid, or...

2) know you weren't going to survive -

There is a plethora of things that you don't, and can't possibly, know about this situation that hasn't happened yet. Things like:

A) Where you will be attacked (parking lot, building, your car, at-home in-bed, etc.)

B) Who your attacker will be

C) How many assailant's you will face

D) Whether or not there are any weapons involved (and what type, if any)

E) How you will be attacked

F) What you'll be wearing or carrying that could help or hinder you, and...

G) Much, much more!

So, how can anyone think that a preset string of moves will be of any use to them in an actual, real-world, attack? Better still, why would they have been passed down for hundreds of years if they couldn't help?

Well, the short of it, based on my own research, is this. There are two schools of thought when it comes to answering this question. The first is the idea that says...

..."we must make sure that warriors have a way to practice during periods of peace so that they'll be ready for the next war. So, what we'll do is string some basics together in a way that they can rely on repetitive practice to stay ready."

The other so-called "school-of-thought" said, "Let's look at the most common attacks that we, with our current set of circumstances, will have to deal with. Then, we'll design a set of example techniques - "fight-scenarios if-you-will - that contain the essence or idea of what could be done in a situation like that. We'll convey the principles and concepts through techniques that are not so-much "set-in-stone" as they are representations of these principles in action."

One school recognized the need to practice the basic mechanics - the "brand" of punching, kicking, etc. (the "secrets") - of their art when there wasn't a war going on. In fact, most schools of training in Japan are still passed on this way. The school allows the student's own intuitive and perceptual powers to determine his or her own level of understanding.

However, for many of these martial systems, the techniques ARE the art. That means that they represent that which makes a particular lineage's techniques and "style" unique among all others. It is not generally acceptable to change the techniques for any reason, as in the case of my friend that I talked about earlier.

The other school recognized that there is an infinite number of combinations if we were to just focus on the mechanics alone. They also recognized that "what" you do is not nearly as important as "when", "why," "how," and under what circumstances you would do anything. Granted, this was more difficult to understand than the basic step-by-step method (which this school DID employ by-the-way), but the idea was that, the principles were much more important than the techniques if one were to win in a conflict.

While the step-by-step, preset model approach does teach students how to apply techniques, from my perspective and experience with having to deal with violent attackers in real-world self-defense situations, it is the later approach - the focus on workable principles and concepts for controlling the situation - that provides the real keys to mastery.

But, it's not martial arts mastery - the mastery of technique - that I'm talking about. But rather the ability to master and control...

Your Environment

Your Attacker's Perceptions

The Space and Distance within the fight

The Assailant's Options

And much Much MORE!

...that allows you to control the very flow of the situation, from moment-to-moment, as it unfolds.

It is this grander-view of the reality of the situation that allows the true martial arts master - the strategic warrior commander, to see beyond the mere punching, kicking, or slashing of the attacker. It is the view that allows us to make sense out of the chaos that is a fight and...

...appear to be magicians and wizards to others with less understanding of the workings of nature and the enlightened wisdom of the trained martial master.

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