Are there 'A's here that do martial arts?

[New Dawn]

I thought I'd start this thread, because I'm quite into martial arts (no expert though), and I thought it'd be interesting to find out what you think of certain styles etc.

Here's my experience -

Ishin Ryu:
When I was very young I did a style called IshinRyu, I don't really remember much to be honest, but am curious to know if anyone else did this. You don't hear much about it these days.

Wado Ryu:
I did this for about three years when I was in my mid teens, but I left because I didn't feel it was very effective for the most part in the real world, or maybe my instructor was just poor?

Shotokan:
at the start of my 20's, I decided to try a different style. I felt Shotokan was the best of the three karate styles. I nearly got to black belt, but as any good martial artist will tell you, belts are good for holding your trousers up, and that's about it.

Black belt doesn't mean you're definitely good at it. I learned this when I was two belts away from black, and I decided to quit. This was partially due to my Sensei making me pay for lessons when I was on tour, and I just couldn't keep up the payments though. Even though I felt it was the best karate style I had experieced, I could see big gaps with the style.

Ninjutsu:
Recently, as in the last year or so, I've been training in Ninjutsu, learning both Ninpo and Jujutsu.

This is the first style where I feel a lot of ground is covered, and the techniques are very well thought out, and amazing when executed correctly. I consider this to be the style for me, and would be surprised if that changes in the future.

What I also like about it, is that it doesn't have this 'I can destroy you' mentality. Its more like, I'll do anything to avoid a fight, but if I have to defend myself or my family, I can do it well. There's a big spiritual side to it, and its helped me develop my personality and attitude for the better (a bit like this place!).

Ok well that's it. I'd love to se what you guys and girls come back with!

Cheers,
ND

[g.k.r]

lord sid is the one to talk about this with:)

[butcherman]

the way of the dragon for me kung fu on an of since 1972.

Butcherman

[Steven]

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu since a long time. And Yoga with my wife :)

Namaste, Steven

[christian]

I've been doing some Aikido, Wing Chun, Wun Hop Kuen Do, Capoeira, Jiu Jitsu, Iaido and I do this as a dance, a play, I get uncomfortable when not moving enough. I figure our bodies are made to move since stoneage, contemporary man doesn't have to move a lot and hence many diseases, stress related syndroms etc. might occur because of this.

Every form, properly done, is for me simply a way to "talk your body for a walk", I feel good sweating during the training and feel relaxed and comfortable afterwards. It's a way of taking care of the vessel and if you want to interact with physical 3d reality, you most commonly need your body to do it, so I care about it, still knowing that it is only borrowed.

I'm not much interested in the actual fighting aspect, because in a serious fight there are so much more important factors than having learnt a certain technique, it might help though. After all, I consider spiritual development more important and as is said in the Art of War by Sun Tzu, the best fighter is unknown, achieves his victories without a [physical] fight, without anybody noticing it or being famous among the people.

I don't like to beat people up and don't like to be beaten up, when I really have to fight, I become a savage-caveman and it gets really dirty. There's no way I could engage in a training fight, because necessarily that would mean to hold back and to profane a very serious thing. Wrestling is an exception, because you don't really hurt each other, because you don't hit the other. I've spent half a year in Mongolia, people of all ages wrestle on the streets in the countryside just for joy, I lost most of the time, the guys there are really good at that :)

[DoubleHelix]

I've done various amounts of Boxing and Kick Boxing throughout my time but the only martial art I really got into was Zen Do Kai.

Zen Do Kai is a freestyle martial art that originated down here in Australia, the thing that really drew me towards Zen was that it incorporates so many different Styles. Some of the forms of fighting style included Muay Thai boxing, Brazilian Jujitsu, Judo, Karate and various types of weaponry. One of the most beneficial aspects of Zen I found was the emphasis on a) avoiding conflict b) self defence and c) defending against weapons i.e. knife attacks. It also operated with a belt system that went as high as 10th Dan

Another cool thing I found about this martial art was that anybody interested in persuing a career in the UFC could find all aspects covered in this one martial art.

[jimbojp]

Been doing tai chi for 10 years or so. I love it!

[Anno]

I did some Preying Mantis Kung Fu in my early 20's but didn't like how it was totally focussed on the external. All western martial arts seem to suffer the same and I haven't bothered since. I truly do not believe that Westerners can learn true martial arts until they learn the inner half first. Chi/Ki, centering and the understanding that there is no opponent. I'm not interested in being macho and learning how to break arms in 12 ways. If I ever want to beat someone up, I'll buy a baseball bat. Quicker and cheaper.

Recently I've been learning about the philosophy and religious roots of Aikido. Which isn't really a Martial Art, but an Art of Peace. I'm tempted to learn the external but if you look at what masters say, including O'Sensei, the external movements are a road to the inner knowledge, which I already have. And according to Aikido, if I am at one with the Dao and acting accordingly (Dharma), then I am invincible and don't need any external form. I just need to 'be'.

So now I've decided to take up Archery as a Martial Art, in that it is a method for practising centering, be-ing and the focus of the will. I may start practising the physical Aikido but from my first paragraph you can understand why I don't like most western teachers.

[Lord Sidious]

I thought I'd start this thread, because I'm quite into martial arts (no expert though), and I thought it'd be interesting to find out what you think of certain styles etc.

Here's my experience -

Ishin Ryu:
When I was very young I did a style called IshinRyu, I don't really remember much to be honest, but am curious to know if anyone else did this. You don't hear much about it these days.

Wado Ryu:
I did this for about three years when I was in my mid teens, but I left because I didn't feel it was very effective for the most part in the real world, or maybe my instructor was just poor?

Shotokan:
at the start of my 20's, I decided to try a different style. I felt Shotokan was the best of the three karate styles. I nearly got to black belt, but as any good martial artist will tell you, belts are good for holding your trousers up, and that's about it.

Black belt doesn't mean you're definitely good at it. I learned this when I was two belts away from black, and I decided to quit. This was partially due to my Sensei making me pay for lessons when I was on tour, and I just couldn't keep up the payments though. Even though I felt it was the best karate style I had experieced, I could see big gaps with the style.

Ninjutsu:
Recently, as in the last year or so, I've been training in Ninjutsu, learning both Ninpo and Jujutsu.

This is the first style where I feel a lot of ground is covered, and the techniques are very well thought out, and amazing when executed correctly. I consider this to be the style for me, and would be surprised if that changes in the future.

What I also like about it, is that it doesn't have this 'I can destroy you' mentality. Its more like, I'll do anything to avoid a fight, but if I have to defend myself or my family, I can do it well. There's a big spiritual side to it, and its helped me develop my personality and attitude for the better (a bit like this place!).

Ok well that's it. I'd love to se what you guys and girls come back with!

Cheers,
ND

I would stick with what you are doing now.
Is it togakure ryu?
Connected to Steven K Hayes?
My sensei taught me a fight avoided is a fight won.
I very rarely get past verbal, people can tell I am not messing.
I prefer to not fight, but if I have no choice, then I prefer to devestate.
The thing I loved most about ninjutsu is that it is a blanket art really, encompassing so many other things.
There is something in it for everyone and women can excell at it due to the skills not requiring strength or size to excute them successfully.

Let's see Sho Kosugi in action.
Obviously there is a lot of hollywood in this, but there is a core of truth.
The old ninja really did have hand held flamethrowers and flash grenades.
The use of shuko aka ''climbing claws'' is misportrayed, they are a sword defence weapon and for close quarters fighting, not necessarily for climbing, although you can use them for that too.
The kusarigama is real, the ninja to is real, though they don't swish as you sweep with them and the shuriken and shaken are real too.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VM8EQGv6ok

[Lord Sidious]

Here is a very interesting video from the same movie.
You can see Sho Kosugi executing the Kuji in mudras.
Plus, the weapons you see include shuko, ninja to, shaken and shuriken and spikes.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6O0CRBsYvOE

[Tony]

Not reacting.........not reacting..........then strike at the right moment! No hesitation, no fear.....know stillness.

[The One]

Boom Boom Akka Lakka Lakka Boom.......Bushak and if that dont make them run nothing will

[New Dawn]

Thanks for your input everyone.

Lord Sidious, "Is it togakure ryu?
Connected to Steven K Hayes?"

Erm, I don't know too much about that yet, but its part of Genbukan. My sensei trained with a grandmaster (I think the last living but not sure). I noticed in the clip the bit where he grabs the sword with the palm of his hands, that was the only bit that I know we'd never do. You only get one shot to get that right, and its not worth the risk :)

Regarding the comment about the western attitude, I couldn't agree more, but I'm happy to say my sensei has kept up the true tradition of the ninja, and I've already learned so much in a short space of time.

I can't do the backflips yet though :)

[Lord Sidious]

Thanks for your input everyone.

Lord Sidious, "Is it togakure ryu?
Connected to Steven K Hayes?"

Erm, I don't know too much about that yet, but its part of Genbukan. My sensei trained with a grandmaster (I think the last living but not sure). I noticed in the clip the bit where he grabs the sword with the palm of his hands, that was the only bit that I know we'd never do. You only get one shot to get that right, and its not worth the risk :)

Regarding the comment about the western attitude, I couldn't agree more, but I'm happy to say my sensei has kept up the true tradition of the ninja, and I've already learned so much in a short space of time.

I can't do the backflips yet though :)

The grandmaster of the nine schools is Masaaki Hatsumi.
You guys are associated to the togakure ryu, trust me.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Masaaki_Hatsumi

[New Dawn]

Thanks for your input everyone.

Lord Sidious, "Is it togakure ryu?
Connected to Steven K Hayes?"

Erm, I don't know too much about that yet, but its part of Genbukan. My sensei trained with a grandmaster (I think the last living but not sure). I noticed in the clip the bit where he grabs the sword with the palm of his hands, that was the only bit that I know we'd never do. You only get one shot to get that right, and its not worth the risk :)

Regarding the comment about the western attitude, I couldn't agree more, but I'm happy to say my sensei has kept up the true tradition of the ninja, and I've already learned so much in a short space of time.

I can't do the backflips yet though :)

The grandmaster of the nine schools is Masaaki Hatsumi.
You guys are associated to the togakure ryu, trust me.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Masaaki_Hatsumi

Thanks LS. Yes I know the guy you're talking about, he's very good, I saw a tv episode on him once, truly amazing man. I'm learning from a pupil of Grandmaster Tanemura Sensei, another very amazing man, and very spiritual. Do you know who I mean?

[Lord Sidious]

Thanks for your input everyone.

Lord Sidious, "Is it togakure ryu?
Connected to Steven K Hayes?"

Erm, I don't know too much about that yet, but its part of Genbukan. My sensei trained with a grandmaster (I think the last living but not sure). I noticed in the clip the bit where he grabs the sword with the palm of his hands, that was the only bit that I know we'd never do. You only get one shot to get that right, and its not worth the risk :)

Regarding the comment about the western attitude, I couldn't agree more, but I'm happy to say my sensei has kept up the true tradition of the ninja, and I've already learned so much in a short space of time.

I can't do the backflips yet though :)

The grandmaster of the nine schools is Masaaki Hatsumi.
You guys are associated to the togakure ryu, trust me.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Masaaki_Hatsumi

Thanks LS. Yes I know the guy you're talking about, he's very good, I saw a tv episode on him once, truly amazing man. I'm learning from a pupil of Grandmaster Tanemura Sensei, another very amazing man, and very spiritual. Do you know who I mean?

Aha, you are with a totally different crowd, not associated with ninjutsu so much at all.
The only surviving schools are togakure, iga and koga.
I came across another one, but I am not sure it is genuine.
Kushin ryu.

[New Dawn]

Thanks for your input everyone.

Lord Sidious, "Is it togakure ryu?
Connected to Steven K Hayes?"

Erm, I don't know too much about that yet, but its part of Genbukan. My sensei trained with a grandmaster (I think the last living but not sure). I noticed in the clip the bit where he grabs the sword with the palm of his hands, that was the only bit that I know we'd never do. You only get one shot to get that right, and its not worth the risk :)

Regarding the comment about the western attitude, I couldn't agree more, but I'm happy to say my sensei has kept up the true tradition of the ninja, and I've already learned so much in a short space of time.

I can't do the backflips yet though :)

The grandmaster of the nine schools is Masaaki Hatsumi.
You guys are associated to the togakure ryu, trust me.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Masaaki_Hatsumi

Thanks LS. Yes I know the guy you're talking about, he's very good, I saw a tv episode on him once, truly amazing man. I'm learning from a pupil of Grandmaster Tanemura Sensei, another very amazing man, and very spiritual. Do you know who I mean?

Aha, you are with a totally different crowd, not associated with ninjutsu so much at all.
The only surviving schools are togakure, iga and koga.
I came across another one, but I am not sure it is genuine.
Kushin ryu.

Hmmm, not sure about that Mr LS, it seems quite ninjutsu to me. We're talking about a 2000 + old art, so its got to be relatively connected. I've learned about the gaurds, Sabaki Gata, Bokken etc, erist lockcs, the evasion with all the rolling, and in those clips you showed, the Seiza stances are performed the same etc.

Who knows! It's very good anyway! Im going to have the opportunity to train with Grandmaster sometime soon too, can't wait for that! :)

[christian]

I may start practising the physical Aikido but from my first paragraph you can understand why I don't like most western teachers.

I guess you don't like a lot of things going on on our planet, yet you participate.
I'm just saying, you could be in a Aikido-Dojo, learn something and get some inspiration and still stay true to your self while doing that. That's how I get along with my local Kung Fu Dojo.

[christian]

I can't do the backflips yet though :)

That's beyond me as well... only in dreams :cool:

[manny]

got a yellow belt in karma sutra ....does that count.;)

i learnt three styles...hidden dragon...fighting monkey....and bitch slap.....;)

[Jake]

I took Wu Shu, Traditional Chinese Gung Fu. Only for about 6 or 7 months. I learned a lot about fighting style and technique; circular motion vs straight line fighting. I do not think that I am cut from the same cloth as others. I like Mr. Miyagis take on it.

"Best way to avoid a punch, is to not be there when it is thrown." (or something to that effect)

Miyagi: Always scared. Miyagi hate fighting.
Daniel: Yeah, but you like karate.
Miyagi: So?
Daniel: So, karate's fighting. You train to fight.
Miyagi: That what you think?
Daniel: [pondering] No.
Miyagi: Then why train?
Daniel: [thinks] So I won't have to fight.
Miyagi: [laughs] Miyagi have hope for you.

[Cjay]

To g.k.r - are you a Go Kan Ryu man?

I trained for 2.5 years in each of Tae Kwon Do and Go Kan Ryu Karate.

My son is passionate about his martial arts, having practiced at least 3 different styles including Go Kan Ryu, Goju Kai and Wing Chun. He was recently invited to train with a master in Japan and he was also invited to represent Australia in a tournament in Thailand.

Some good friends of mine (a couple) run a karate and kick boxing school:
http://www.elthammartialarts.com/homepage/instructor.html
http://www.elthammartialarts.com/homepage/instructorassistant.html
but I don't train with them because they are too far from me.

Respectful bow to all martial-arts pracitioners.

[ghostrider]

I've had a blue belt in judo\jujitsu for 25ys took goju, and tai chi. the best for me was tai chi, it has many fixes for the human spirit, melding everything together as one, the power inside you has no limits. any hoo that's my two cents worth. I try and keep it a secret for many will ask for me to show them something and done correctly I can't show them without hurting them. I'm a lover not a fighter, learned to defend myself cause of my small stature everyone picked on me. only took one fight and no one wanted to be aggressive to me again.

[manny]

i learnened sho ku kai karate for about 18 months many years ago.
entered a competition and lost.
thats what happens when you put a five foot 6 against a 6 ft 6.
but got a couple of points in.

anyway a few years later three guys tried to jump me.
it all came back ...
i threw one off my back,i knocked one out cold,and the biggest gave me a smack...i did,nt see stars ...i saw planets!
but i held my own.

whatever i learned from them few lessons ,helped me on that day.
i,m not a fighter,but hey what a adrenalin rush.

[Siberia9]

Its Wing Chun for me, I changed from Kempo to Wing Chun after I met a guy that was doing some not very pretty or interesting or effective looking Kung fu who asked me to try and hit him, I could not, no matter what I did he hit me everytime I moved, and he was wearing a blind fold. Needless to say I was going to his class to find out about this, and I stayed. Before the change over I had been in more fights than anyone could count and I have the permenent damage to go with it. I wish I had listened to the old timers who told me not to do what I was doing, but it took a NDE to change all that and Wing Chin fits better into the way I see the world now. Soft style, no more fighting for me, no more drinking, no more broken bones, no more collecting money for gangsters, no more 2:am trips to the veterinarian for stitches in the back of a van. I used to laugh and tell jokes out load when I was fighting so that I could stay calm and not get tunnel vision, now I just laugh and walk away, It works even better before the fight starts it turns out. Right about the same time I read a book by Bruce Lee expecting a book on Wing Chun and Jeet Keen Do, but Bruce had a degree in philosophy and hit me where I didn't expect it, and so started my journey to make sense of the Game, my NDE and the mission I was showed to have. What a long strange trip its been...and we are only half way thru!

[Maia Gabrial]

This is an interesting thread.
I've got experience in a few styles myself: Taewkondo, Aikido, Tai chi, Shorinji kenpo, Ryuku Ryu and (my favorite) Shorin Ryu.
Maia

[Karma Ninja]

I have studied Judo for years and dabbled in Jiu-jitsu for a couple of years while I lived in Japan. I studied a tournament style of Judo (Kodokan) with the Takahashi dojo here in Ottawa and under Master Nimori (Kosen) in Japan. I also studied Tae Kwon Do, Karate and MMA fighting for a few years with a local dojo while MMA was beginning to make it's mark. The latter was more open and free style of fighting where everyone was asked to provide input, I was there to provide Judo influence.

I wrestled in high school (City champ) and made the provincials but got my butt kicked by some seriously good wrestlers. I kept trying to do Judo moves as well and getting into trouble for illegal holds and submissions. Not many see wrestling as a martial art but the Greeks know better and made it an Olympic sport. Most fights make it to the grappling stage and this is where my training came in handy. In Japan, on the wrestling team, I had the honor of losing 4 times to 2 time all-American David Fish in the far east tournament. That dude was tough!

Those Ninja movies bring back memories! I loved those as a kid. Sho Kosugi was my hero! If I remember correctly he is a Karate guy. He was at a martial arts exposition I attended and the lineup to meet him was so long I decided I couldn't stay that long and I didn't get a chance to meet him. I know many Japanese martial artists who will tell you that Ninjitsu was never taught to foreigners and those teaching it abroad are teaching a completely different style from the original espionage style of assassination that was used by its founding clan.

[MMA_Fan]

Great to see there are martial artists on here;

I do Muay Thai (nursing a cracked rib at the mo from a damn good push kick;))

Before that I studied MMA standup hybrid. It was good to have a taste of many styles but the focusing on Muay Thai alone is highly recommended.
Im gonna start submission wrestling soon and hope to get on the UK circuit before next year.

As for the traditional Japanese and Chinese styles, I have yet to try something like Wado, but if I was to do one it would probably be karate or TKD.

Thanks for creating this thread OP.

[Koyaanisqatsi]

Yep. I practice the only functional real world martial art=mixed. In before the Krav Maga.

[Lord Sidious]

I have studied Judo for years and dabbled in Jiu-jitsu for a couple of years while I lived in Japan. I studied a tournament style of Judo (Kodokan) with the Takahashi dojo here in Ottawa and under Master Nimori (Kosen) in Japan. I also studied Tae Kwon Do, Karate and MMA fighting for a few years with a local dojo while MMA was beginning to make it's mark. The latter was more open and free style of fighting where everyone was asked to provide input, I was there to provide Judo influence.

I wrestled in high school (City champ) and made the provincials but got my butt kicked by some seriously good wrestlers. I kept trying to do Judo moves as well and getting into trouble for illegal holds and submissions. Not many see wrestling as a martial art but the Greeks know better and made it an Olympic sport. Most fights make it to the grappling stage and this is where my training came in handy. In Japan, on the wrestling team, I had the honor of losing 4 times to 2 time all-American David Fish in the far east tournament. That dude was tough!

Those Ninja movies bring back memories! I loved those as a kid. Sho Kosugi was my hero! If I remember correctly he is a Karate guy. He was at a martial arts exposition I attended and the lineup to meet him was so long I decided I couldn't stay that long and I didn't get a chance to meet him. I know many Japanese martial artists who will tell you that Ninjitsu was never taught to foreigners and those teaching it abroad are teaching a completely different style from the original espionage style of assassination that was used by its founding clan.

It never was taught abroad.
Stephen K Hayes is the first to do that, as far as I know.
He learnt in Japan from Masaaki Hatsumi and got his blessing to do it.
And there are many different clans, most extinct, except for togakure, iga and koga, as far as I know.

[KeelahSelai]

Wow Lord Sid you sound just like me, one of the reasons why you have my respect, indeed so, Hayes learnt abroad, you would be wise looking into two of my close friends Bud Malmstrom and Jack Hoban whom also trained abroad with Hayes, see.. Hatsumi was a Buddhist and when he would pray he would practice the finger weaving; this unfortunately became iconic with the western ideal of a Ninja when really it was nothing to do with Ninpo.

However the art of demon summoning through movements and good Kiri is true, but this is based in superstition and you see it draws circular motions from Hapkido, but the points look more like striking a clock at different times.
I would always get good intel on what family teaches you Ninpo and they should be able to trace back to japan with no problem.
Iga and Kolga are two mountains where the Ninja originated from, very cold very barren hence the insidious nature of their training, but they were militia and peasants not assassins, they were the counter class to the Samurai and were more of a threat to the social structure of Japan, basically they were us, open minded individuals that did not like the military rule and sought to take back their land on their terms.
And of course my arts are Aikido, Kravmaga, Kyo Kushin Kai and I was the Northern Muay Thai Champion for two years in the 90s, I was retired a spinster Thai war champion. I trained with Dekkers and Kamen and had an awesome run in Thailand.

I do like Tai Chi, it’s good for the body, it helps you stretch every day and that is said to be one of the best ways of extending your life. Chi Gong, Kung, is also very good as that maintains balance its about accepting negative and positive energy and balancing the two. Breathing and control play a key part even though you are standing still holding a ball of your own energy.

[core2011]

Ive always been involved in many different Marshal Arts since I was 4. Started with Taekwondoe and throughout life found myself in Shotokan, Kook Sool Won, Spirit Combat, Jui-jitsu, and then moved on to Muay Thai and Boxing in the later years, out of it all I really enjoyed boxing the most, right up until I was 23 I had been throwing people around and fancy tricks and flips and kicks but it was nice to get into a ring and beat the crap out of one another. been heavy lifting now for a while and broke my sternam in the gym doing dips with a 20 kilo plate hanging off my belt (idiot) so I wasnt allowed to get in the ring anymore :-( had a big fight and payday planned in Brixton, London and I had to drop out was gutted to say the least stupid dam sternam!!!

Martial Arts in general are great body conditioning and mind focus, tolerance and composure as well as good fun!

[ghostrider]

interesting, the spiritual side of moving the body in fluid motions uniting body soul and spirit sounds like a common thread between all of us who dabble in some form of self defense. Did u find your greatest opponent was yourself? I suggest everyone try tai chi and just see what happens, trust me you will love it. It's a great stress reliever.

[gong]

Ninjutsu does not exist really.

It's a creation of commercialised cultural export...I think that if you are interested in 'the art' you have got to practice close to the source.

The source is in Japan...starting with lineage from Takamatsu sensei, Hatsumi sensei next [and still now] and the small circle of people around him.

Note that Mr Hayes is not.
And if you observe his movement, you will find it rather incorrect and largely useless in a real situation.

My suggestion would be to practice with anyone who is close to Mr Kacem Zoughari -


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f18ygD8RGWk&feature=related

There is generally quite a high level of poor teaching, poor practice and poor physical constitution within Bujinkan/ Genbukan and, even more so, various 'ninja-art' associations, so watch out.
It not only gives the art a bad name (ask any MMA or Muay-Thai practitioner!) but practising that way will work against you.

just need to go cherry picking for good practice! ;)

[Lord Sidious]

I would agree with your comments Gong.
If it were me and I had the $, I would go to japan and study there.

[gong]

no need to go to Japan, Sid, unless you have -apart from $- the facility to get real practice. Hatsumi runs a big bujinkan show and he enjoys it - the real practice happens with a selected few like in any other field on the planet. Just find a good teacher near you with the right ability and also access to the right people. That aside, he is an old man now and what happens in the Buij is young people watching, practicing, and then starting to move like an old man,too, not with the real movement or real intention. but hey - he is ninja, of course he plays tricks on everyone :D

[Lord Sidious]

no need to go to Japan, Sid, unless you have -apart from $- the facility to get real practice. Hatsumi runs a big bujinkan show and he enjoys it - the real practice happens with a selected few like in any other field on the planet. Just find a good teacher near you with the right ability and also access to the right people. That aside, he is an old man now and what happens in the Buij is young people watching, practicing, and then starting to move like an old man,too, not with the real movement or real intention. but hey - he is ninja, of course he plays tricks on everyone :D

Not necessarily to train with him.
I know that koga and iga are less known, but they still exist.
If they are not glory seeking, isn't that more true to the origins?
In the past, I did a bit of sum yung gi, a bit of hu flung dung and even some katsu don.

[Karma Ninja]

Ninjutsu does not exist really.

It's a creation of commercialised cultural export...I think that if you are interested in 'the art' you have got to practice close to the source.

The source is in Japan...starting with lineage from Takamatsu sensei, Hatsumi sensei next [and still now] and the small circle of people around him.

Note that Mr Hayes is not.
And if you observe his movement, you will find it rather incorrect and largely useless in a real situation.

My suggestion would be to practice with anyone who is close to Mr Kacem Zoughari -

There is generally quite a high level of poor teaching, poor practice and poor physical constitution within Bujinkan/ Genbukan and, even more so, various 'ninja-art' associations, so watch out.
It not only gives the art a bad name (ask any MMA or Muay-Thai practitioner!) but practising that way will work against you.

just need to go cherry picking for good practice! ;)

From what I was told, the source of Ninjutsu or Ninpo is in China and the origins in Japan are in the Koga and Iga provinces. However, the practice of using Shinobi or Ninja came about long before the accepted formation of specific clans. The origins were directly from the opposition to the somewhat oppressive influence of the Bushido or Samurai way. The Shinobi were not bound by the honour codes of the Bushido and were able to act freely.

Stephen Hayes is teaching Ninpo in name only and due to highly secretive traditions would never have been taught the art taught in Japan. In the end Ninpo is just one art and there are many different ways to accomplish winning a fight. Often the 'best' art is the one that suits the person best but you need to learn multiple arts to be a fully rounded fighter.

Bruce Lee summed it up best with this quote "Be like water making its way through cracks. Do not be assertive, but adjust to the object, and you shall find a way round or through it. If nothing within you stays rigid, outward things will disclose themselves.

Empty your mind, be formless. Shapeless, like water. If you put water into a cup, it becomes the cup. You put water into a bottle and it becomes the bottle. You put it in a teapot it becomes the teapot. Now, water can flow or it can crash. Be water my friend."

But in the end as my handle would suggest...Ninja's are the coolest dudes and dudettes on the planet!

[Cjay]

I enjoyed a TV series - I think it was on Discovery Channel - with two Americans who travelled the world to train in many different styles. Each epsiode focussed on one specific style. Does anyone remember the name of that series?

One might argue that there are good and bad techniques in every style. If I had my time again, I would love to start younger and train for a year in each of about 20 styles. "Jack of all trades, master of none", I hear the skeptics say. Yeah but I'm not interested in winning any tournaments or becoming a martial arts master. It fits in with my cultural melting pot upbringing and it appeals to my sense of adventure.

"Grasshopper, when you can take this pebble from my hand, you are ready to leave" (or words the that effect).

[MMA_Fan]

I enjoyed a TV series - I think it was on Discovery Channel - with two Americans who travelled the world to train in many different styles. Each epsiode focussed on one specific style. Does anyone remember the name of that series?

One might argue that there are good and bad techniques in every style. If I had my time again, I would love to start younger and train for a year in each of about 20 styles. "Jack of all trades, master of none", I hear the skeptics say. Yeah but I'm not interested in winning any tournaments or becoming a martial arts master. It fits in with my cultural melting pot upbringing and it appeals to my sense of adventure.

"Grasshopper, when you can take this pebble from my hand, you are ready to leave" (or words the that effect).

Fight Quest was the discovery channel one i think. You can watch them all on you tube.

Human Weapon is a similar format of show and just as good. (also on you tube)

[New Dawn]

I'm glad I did the three Karate styles, and I definitely got something from it (not sure how much, but some things), but the Ninpo/Jujutsu (or what ever I'm really doing, Lord Sid haha), is the best for me, personally. I definitely want to try other styles, maybe Wing Chun and Tai Chi, but just too busy in life to consider that right now, and besides, the difference from Karate to Ninja stuff was really hard for me because the styles have nothing in common.

For those that are interested: When you're doing karate, its all standing hard, punching hard, Kicking hard and all of that (hard all the time), where as in my 'branch' of Genbukan Ninpo Taijutsu/Jujutsu I've had to re-train to relax - totally the opposite. Until I understood that, I kept getting small injuries during break falling etc.

Wish me luck guys, I'm doing my Ninpo 8th Kyu grade very soon, and my Jujutsu 8th Kyu in a few months! :)

Thanks to everyone posting a response too!

Maybe one day I'll be Sensei New Dawn ha!

Edit: wanted to add that breathing is really important (and before you get all wise on me, I mean its important to breathe at the right time - makes a massive difference!)

[jimbojp]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zub7o3MguEg

[Hummingbird]

Reading Bruce Lee's book when I was 18 got me started, have been watching UFC, Pride an MMA in general for 10 years.

Started on the ground( Jiu Jitsu) and started doing muay thai ( the Holland form under Bas Rutten) and now love the No way is way mind set of artistically blending all techniques together in harmony, while under the unpredictable chaos of combat not with robotic rehearsed dance moves.

Do a little teaching of friends, have thai pads etc. so train alot at the house these days. My Wife is my best training partner, we have alot of fun and increase our abilities to defend ourselves. We are about to start the process of becoming Kitana swordsmen and women

Martial arts has taught me the great benefits of having a body that is in peak physical condition, if you combine that with meditation practice you can see amazing results in very short periods of time.

Recommendations

Health , Strength training with Kettle bells, Hormone Optimization: MikeMahler.com

Youtube Planche if you can master it you will have developed great strength Its Hard!!

Great Thread Thank you everyone for your contributions, you have said it all

[New Dawn]

Reading Bruce Lee's book when I was 18 got me started, have been watching UFC, Pride an MMA in general for 10 years.

Started on the ground( Jiu Jitsu) and started doing muay thai ( the Holland form under Bas Rutten) and now love the No way is way mind set of artistically blending all techniques together in harmony, while under the unpredictable chaos of combat not with robotic rehearsed dance moves.

Do a little teaching of friends, have thai pads etc. so train alot at the house these days. My Wife is my best training partner, we have alot of fun and increase our abilities to defend ourselves. We are about to start the process of becoming Kitana swordsmen and women

Martial arts has taught me the great benefits of having a body that is in peak physical condition, if you combine that with meditation practice you can see amazing results in very short periods of time.

Recommendations

Health , Strength training with Kettle bells, Hormone Optimization: MikeMahler.com

Youtube Planche if you can master it you will have developed great strength Its Hard!!

Great Thread Thank you everyone for your contributions, you have said it all

Thanks, will check that all out. I wonder if the Bruce Lee books are on Amazon? Which ones do you suggest I read?

[MariaDine]

Presently doing/learning this..

.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9VYw1WbpmG8&feature=related

I was professional Ballet dancer with yoga Iyengar and Pilates trainning. Did a few years of Judo, Karate and Aikido to learn the difference between the technics. I'm more a Chikung/Taichi fan because of the «energywork« it envolves. Falun Dafa and and Chinese yoga (which is not publicly taught and it's sort of a dinamic yoga)are also «fun» for the same reason...energy . Kundalinni yoga is also a favorite :)

Namasté

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c50-RuVb54c&feature=related

[daddy fishwick]

the way of the dragon for me kung fu on an of since 1972.

Butcherman
Brilliant! Same, Kung Fu, Wing Chun, Shotokai and just recently Brazillian Jiu Jitsu.

I have always Loved Martial Arts! It's helped to maintain all facets of my physical prowess over the years and taught me much about Honour, Strength, Respect, Patience, the list is endless!

[Anna]

Ha New Dawn,

Great question; I have trained in Hapkido for 10 years and had the great opportunity to train also with judo, aikido, taekwondo, jiu jitsu and ninja teachers. We trained every day for 2 hours and I loved every minute of it but realised that I was not made out to kill.
(Although I almost broke someone's neck in a leg grip, the master was just in time to save my opponent...)
My favorite technique that worked pretty well was to grasp the suit, put my foot up their chest, go down to the floor, flip them over with me rolling on top of them and nail them to the ground with my elbow over their throat.
Great acrobatics!
Becoming older I became more attracted to the soft arts like T'ai Chi and Qi Gong which I practised for several years.
Nowadays I stick to the Tibetan exercises (Shamballa, Fountain of Youth, Shangri-La - they have many names), they keep me happy, healthy and wiser.

hug from Anna

[New Dawn]

Ha New Dawn,

Great question; I have trained in Hapkido for 10 years and had the great opportunity to train also with judo, aikido, taekwondo, jiu jitsu and ninja teachers. We trained every day for 2 hours and I loved every minute of it but realised that I was not made out to kill.
(Although I almost broke someone's neck in a leg grip, the master was just in time to save my opponent...)
My favorite technique that worked pretty well was to grasp the suit, put my foot up their chest, go down to the floor, flip them over with me rolling on top of them and nail them to the ground with my elbow over their throat.
Great acrobatics!
Becoming older I became more attracted to the soft arts like T'ai Chi and Qi Gong which I practised for several years.
Nowadays I stick to the Tibetan exercises (Shamballa, Fountain of Youth, Shangri-La - they have many names), they keep me happy, healthy and wiser.

hug from Anna

Wow Anna, I better not mess with you, I like my neck un-snapped :)

Sounds like you have a lot of background with martial arts, maybe one day you and some of the other A's can trade some cool moves with me, although it sounds like you know a lot more :)

[MoSh187]

I was trying to learn the Hung Gar form Tiger and Crane from Chiu chi ling's instructional dvd. There are 10 sections of the form and I used to have up to section 8 memorized. I then decided I should probably find a hung gar school.... but there are none around here. I wouldn't want to do the form without proper instruction.

-VQW55fdJxA

[Anna]

The end of my Hapkido training came when I told the master, who had become my lover over time, that I didn't want to continue the relationship.
He never forgave me for that and denied me my black belt certificate while others were granted.
It hurt because I was so proud of my achievements and wanted to show the world (with such certificate you need to report to the police that you have become a deadly weapon).
But I learned that I am a lover and not a fighter and these days would rather massage your neck than anything else...

hug from Anna

[New Dawn]

The end of my Hapkido training came when I told the master, who had become my lover over time, that I didn't want to continue the relationship.
He never forgave me for that and denied me my black belt certificate while others were granted.
It hurt because I was so proud of my achievements and wanted to show the world (with such certificate you need to report to the police that you have become a deadly weapon).
But I learned that I am a lover and not a fighter and these days would rather massage your neck than anything else...

hug from Anna

I could do with a massage too :)

I'm sorry to say that your Sensei sounds like a stupid spoilt kid that didn't get his way. What a shame to be a great martial artist with the moves but not have evolved at all spiritually.

[treeman]

...one of the better martial arts is 'Wing Chun'. Invented by a women so already says alot.

It has straight line/ centre line principles along with side line/ angle counters. It really has alot
such as "Si Lim Tao' (little idea form) as its foundation and has roots from 'Tai Chi' which encompasses 'Chi Chung' form
(breathing form) for inche power/ famous inche power punch and iron jacket/ shirt, example of this is where Sifu Goh places
two chopsticks to the throat and having a Slap kick to the back of the hands which is holding them (internal CHI),
but this is thirty-fourty years of practice and dedication, however a true example how amazing the human body IS.

It stems from 'Kung Fu' and of course, the very foundations of Bruce Lee were 'Wing Chun' (Yip Man). There are many
martial arts but this is an Awesome one because the older you get, the dynamics of the art changes from physical external energy to
an internal one. There is no throwing, lifting, jumping but a very simplistic approach....you would never bet a good 'Wing Chun'
martial artist in a telephone box, their close contact principles, waist power is incredible.

There are few true 'Sifu's' that are true to 'Wing Chun' as they begin to mix the martial arts with others.....good luck...its a
long and challenging journey but a fulfilling one.

[scootiep]

Hi all,

I have always been interested in Martial Arts but I have never had the confidence nor motivation to go and learn...but recently a guy from GKR Karate came to my house asking me if I would like to join and it has made me really think about doing it so I can protect my family in the now and future.

Has anybody trained with GKR Karate (GO-KAN-RYU) before? and if so are they any good? They are based all over the world here is their website http://www.gkrkarate.com/

Thanks for any feedback.

Regards,

Scott

[New Dawn]

Hi all,

I have always been interested in Martial Arts but I have never had the confidence nor motivation to go and learn...but recently a guy from GKR Karate came to my house asking me if I would like to join and it has made me really think about doing it so I can protect my family in the now and future.

Has anybody trained with GKR Karate (GO-KAN-RYU) before? and if so are they any good? They are based all over the world here is their website http://www.gkrkarate.com/

Thanks for any feedback.

Regards,

Scott

Your best bet is to probably go and watch a class, look at the higher grades and see how you feel about it then. Definitely ask around, but if what you see inspires you, go for it - if it doesn't suit you, you can always leave and try something else. I've not had good experience with karate for the most part, but maybe that's just me. Ask the Sensei (teacher) what grade he's up to (ie 1st Dan, 2nnd, 3rd etc), because there's a lot a mickey mouse ones out there too....

If protecting yourself and your family is important (and of course it is), then its worth the money. I just can't quit, because if something ever happened and I couldn't defend my loved ones, I'd never be able to deal with it. I've also found myself having more frequently happy days since doing my M/arts. You have everything to gain and nothing to lose, apart from your cash :)

Let us know what its like dude!!

[New Dawn]

I have my next grade today, wish me luck :)

[KeelahSelai]

I enjoyed a TV series - I think it was on Discovery Channel - with two Americans who travelled the world to train in many different styles. Each epsiode focussed on one specific style. Does anyone remember the name of that series?

One might argue that there are good and bad techniques in every style. If I had my time again, I would love to start younger and train for a year in each of about 20 styles. "Jack of all trades, master of none", I hear the skeptics say. Yeah but I'm not interested in winning any tournaments or becoming a martial arts master. It fits in with my cultural melting pot upbringing and it appeals to my sense of adventure.

"Grasshopper, when you can take this pebble from my hand, you are ready to leave" (or words the that effect).

Fight Quest was the discovery channel one i think. You can watch them all on you tube.

Human Weapon is a similar format of show and just as good. (also on you tube)

Human Weapon was awesome, I enjoyed watching big Bill Duff actually become a a very focused and confident man in regards to how he slimmed down and gave 100% of the training Jason Chambers also did well but he is a mate of mine so I am not giving him a reason to slap me. but he still squints like a girl when chopping water ;)

[Ki's]

Aikido here...since I was 18 yrs. Restoring harmony to an opponent.... ;)

[New Dawn]

For those that care, I passed my grade yesterday...It was a looooong day! I did a course, then my grade, then a photo-shoot followed by a recording session. To say I'm knackered would be an understatement!

[Sync]

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>(0)<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

[yiolas]

Hi, I'm currently learning Tai Chi and Chi Qong. I've got a long way to go though with learning the Tai Chi forms. Chi Qong is very relaxing .
BTW, are they considered Martial Arts ?

[New Dawn]

Everyday on this site the ryūha of classic Ninjutsu is in play.

Currently, psychological variations of katon-no-jutsu (fire techniques), mokuton-no-jutsu (wood), suiton-no-jutsu (water), and doton-no-jutsu (earth) are being used against Bill and all members.

Charles' clumsy and fiery approach was an excellent example of hitsuke as the true shinobi-monomi are likely further entrenched into dominant positions.

I have never seen such an obvious example of this where it has not been detected by the target.

It is hidden in plain site to those who have their emotions in check.

This is true ninjutsu.

Pay attention and watch it unfold.

Hopefully Bill will begin to step back and see this obvious pattern.

Heh, dude I'm up for discussing that, but we can't bend things like that to post something so unrelated in thread. If someone posted about 'rain', it'd be like posting in there that 'it always rains at Avalon, and its smearing Bills vision from the dry truth' lol, Come on dude, there's a 'Charles section', please keep him out of here - I'm so sick and tired of the whole Atticus thing, but I understand that others want to discuss it, and that's cool, but because I'm not interested, I barely click around that area of the forum, and I'm sure I'm not the only one. Are you trying to say that there's people deceiving us and Bill here? Start a new thread on it, please, and I'm sure you'll receive a lot of feed back on the issue :)




Hi, I'm currently learning Tai Chi and Chi Qong. I've got a long way to go though with learning the Tai Chi forms. Chi Qong is very relaxing .
BTW, are they considered Martial Arts ?

Erm I don't know what Chi Qong is, do you have any links I can check out? Tai Chi, I thought it was a martial art in some form, can anyone anser that?

[starfighter]

I am a martial arts instructor (TaeKwon-Do ITF) studied for 16 years before that shotokan for 3 years and aikido for 2 years.




I thought I'd start this thread, because I'm quite into martial arts (no expert though), and I thought it'd be interesting to find out what you think of certain styles etc.

Here's my experience -

Ishin Ryu:
When I was very young I did a style called IshinRyu, I don't really remember much to be honest, but am curious to know if anyone else did this. You don't hear much about it these days.

Wado Ryu:
I did this for about three years when I was in my mid teens, but I left because I didn't feel it was very effective for the most part in the real world, or maybe my instructor was just poor?

Shotokan:
at the start of my 20's, I decided to try a different style. I felt Shotokan was the best of the three karate styles. I nearly got to black belt, but as any good martial artist will tell you, belts are good for holding your trousers up, and that's about it.

Black belt doesn't mean you're definitely good at it. I learned this when I was two belts away from black, and I decided to quit. This was partially due to my Sensei making me pay for lessons when I was on tour, and I just couldn't keep up the payments though. Even though I felt it was the best karate style I had experieced, I could see big gaps with the style.

Ninjutsu:
Recently, as in the last year or so, I've been training in Ninjutsu, learning both Ninpo and Jujutsu.

This is the first style where I feel a lot of ground is covered, and the techniques are very well thought out, and amazing when executed correctly. I consider this to be the style for me, and would be surprised if that changes in the future.

What I also like about it, is that it doesn't have this 'I can destroy you' mentality. Its more like, I'll do anything to avoid a fight, but if I have to defend myself or my family, I can do it well. There's a big spiritual side to it, and its helped me develop my personality and attitude for the better (a bit like this place!).

Ok well that's it. I'd love to se what you guys and girls come back with!

Cheers,
ND

[yiolas]

Hi, I'm currently learning Tai Chi and Chi Qong. I've got a long way to go though with learning the Tai Chi forms. Chi Qong is very relaxing .
BTW, are they considered Martial Arts ?

Erm I don't know what Chi Qong is, do you have any links I can check out? Tai Chi, I thought it was a martial art in some form, can anyone anser that?

Of course I got the spelling wrong, but here it is. I felt results from the very first session. I felt lighter both physically and mentally and had renewed energy. I would recomend it to anyone.

Qigong[1] or chi kung[2] (气功) is the Chinese philosophy and practice of aligning breath, physical activity and awareness for mental, spiritual and corporeal health, as well as the development of human potential.[3] It includes aspects of Chinese martial arts[4] and purportedly the spiritual awakening to one's true nature.[5]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qigong
Qigong (Chi gong)
Chi Gong is a set of meditative exercises developed over 2,000 years ago by Taoist monks in China. By combining simple body movements, breathing and mental imagery you can direct the flow of your body's energy to prevent disease, build strength and to advance spiritually.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tL3Vc35F42k&feature=player_embedded (http://www.chionline.com/qigong/index.html)

[Sync]

Heh, dude I'm up for discussing that, but we can't bend things like that to post something so unrelated in thread. If someone posted about 'rain', it'd be like posting in there that 'it always rains at Avalon, and its smearing Bills vision from the dry truth' lol, Come on dude, there's a 'Charles section', please keep him out of here - I'm so sick and tired of the whole Atticus thing, but I understand that others want to discuss it, and that's cool, but because I'm not interested, I barely click around that area of the forum, and I'm sure I'm not the only one. Are you trying to say that there's people deceiving us and Bill here? Start a new thread on it, please, and I'm sure you'll receive a lot of feed back on the issue :)

Thank you.

Good luck with your training.

[Pilgrim]

..judo, shotokan, goju ruy, musado, kickboxing, having been in special force some "practical stuff"....fitness, yoga and meditation mostly now...

[MariaDine]

Hi, I'm currently learning Tai Chi and Chi Qong. I've got a long way to go though with learning the Tai Chi forms. Chi Qong is very relaxing .
BTW, are they considered Martial Arts ?


People think that the yoga and the tai-chi are very easy, light and slowwww... well, that's for beginners. It just like Ballet, one starts slow and easy and after a few years you can become a PRO. :)

Well, that's my personal experience...but , then again I was a profissional ballet dancer for many years, so my «view« may not be shared by other praticioners.

Namasté



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GC5A9Zu9Af8&feature=relmfu


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oncHCLueW2Q&feature=related

[New Dawn]

Why is the word 'dude' bold? Are you trying to tell me something? :)


>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>(0)<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<




Heh, dude I'm up for discussing that, but we can't bend things like that to post something so unrelated in thread. If someone posted about 'rain', it'd be like posting in there that 'it always rains at Avalon, and its smearing Bills vision from the dry truth' lol, Come on dude, there's a 'Charles section', please keep him out of here - I'm so sick and tired of the whole Atticus thing, but I understand that others want to discuss it, and that's cool, but because I'm not interested, I barely click around that area of the forum, and I'm sure I'm not the only one. Are you trying to say that there's people deceiving us and Bill here? Start a new thread on it, please, and I'm sure you'll receive a lot of feed back on the issue :)

Thank you.

Good luck with your training.

[scootiep]

Hi all,

I have always been interested in Martial Arts but I have never had the confidence nor motivation to go and learn...but recently a guy from GKR Karate came to my house asking me if I would like to join and it has made me really think about doing it so I can protect my family in the now and future.

Has anybody trained with GKR Karate (GO-KAN-RYU) before? and if so are they any good? They are based all over the world here is their website http://www.gkrkarate.com/

Thanks for any feedback.

Regards,

Scott

Your best bet is to probably go and watch a class, look at the higher grades and see how you feel about it then. Definitely ask around, but if what you see inspires you, go for it - if it doesn't suit you, you can always leave and try something else. I've not had good experience with karate for the most part, but maybe that's just me. Ask the Sensei (teacher) what grade he's up to (ie 1st Dan, 2nnd, 3rd etc), because there's a lot a mickey mouse ones out there too....

If protecting yourself and your family is important (and of course it is), then its worth the money. I just can't quit, because if something ever happened and I couldn't defend my loved ones, I'd never be able to deal with it. I've also found myself having more frequently happy days since doing my M/arts. You have everything to gain and nothing to lose, apart from your cash :)

Let us know what its like dude!!

Hiya New Dawn sorry for not getting back to you sooner, thanks for replying. I haven't been to a class yet but I will definetly soon!! I have a massive calling to go and train :) I will et you know how it goes as soon as I start going.


For those that care, I passed my grade yesterday...It was a looooong day! I did a course, then my grade, then a photo-shoot followed by a recording session. To say I'm knackered would be an understatement!

Well done for passing :)

[enoch]

People think that the yoga and the tai-chi are very easy, light and slowwww... well, that's for beginners. It just like Ballet, one starts slow and easy and after a few years you can become a PRO.


I had to laugh when i read this .... oh so true
one of the requirements my old teacher gave me before receiving a bb in Shaolin Tiger Kung Fu was to travel around to experience other systems of discipline. He wanted this done before advanced kb training so i said OK. Loved that ole man lol he was like a dad to me.
Just so happens Ballet was on the list.
Imagine a young man fill of P & V being told to go to Ballet. I laughed not for long though.
I wasn't ready for that. the physical endurance, muscle control etc. wow One of the hardest things I've done physically no kidding try it lol.
Them lady's made everything look sooo easy. helped me physically mentally and spiritually
go ballet. Give me a ballet dancer and i can teach them to chop a tree down with their legs. :cheer2:
Enoch

[sirac]

this thing they talk about about archasic downloads.....
always been interested in maritial arts, they were my first entry into things eastern after i had bored myself with western energies,
but i only read about it. never had the oppurtunity to do it.

once i read about a Chinese kung-fu style were they used strikes from the knuckles of the 2 smallest fingers. this was said to be in such a way that no pain is felt, because of the conformation of the bones.
once back in my friend & i's flat, relaxing/exploringCreatively as men do with THC and listening to music i took to the striking techniques and actually did it.

couples to this:
i once received 'an unintentional download'....i read this thing (since had my PC stolen, & have no hope to ever find that thing on the net again...it was small scale & easily removed from the attention of the alternate community)
that time eventually ground to a stand-still,...hated that...i was trapped.
but in retrospect i know about one download that can be used by special forces soldiers to kill each other in the dark, one can literally detect energy fields.
for the short time i was in that mode before i crashed, i came in contact with a faith healer & i wanted to ask him for direction.
in that energy field detection, i felt a rainbow touch down near us at a moment. & this guy was into the covenant stuff, so the rainbow thing for him made sense. (but to factor such a thing in my current understanding in the alternate community does not allow 'where to factor this in or characterize it')

[MihaGuru]

Hi guys, I did about 15 years of karate shotokan, kick boxing and a bit of wrestling. But I came to the point that marshal arts in general is disigned for turneys, not for fighting.

Love and Peace

[siggy]

Aikido (after trying Karate, Kung Fu, and kick boxing in my teenage years when I wanted to be just like Bruce Lee :) ) for 10 years or so - but stopped training a couple of years ago.

[buckminster fuller]

wushu here, 2 years when I was 17, then got tired of the bad mentality of my club, and got into wing chun.. still practicing. As I see it, martial arts are doors you go through in order to develop your own abilities, and the old saying remains true... The true enemy is yourself.

peace