Holiday Specials
It is still not too late to take advantage of several Holiday Specials now through the New Year. One special is for new enrollments. We will be offering an introductory enrollment of six weeks for $45.00 for an Individual Plan and $99.00 for a Family Plan when you sign up on a six or twelve month plan.
The other specials are in the Holiday Gift Guide by Century Martial Arts. There are many new items for the holidays and a special sparring gear bundle for those that need to purchase sparring gear. Keep in mind that all of your martial arts needs can be purchased at the school and we also have gift certificates. If you are ordering gifts for Christmas please place your order by December 10th to ensure that your item is in stock or arrives in plenty of time. See Mr. or Mrs. Williams to place your orders.
H. JAMES YOUNG VISIT
Maryland based martial arts instructor and AKMS Student/Instructor made his annual visit to Hutchinson. Mr. Young is a welcome addition to American Karate. We had a great time exchanging ideas, exercises and techniques. We also appreciate his monthly contribution to the monthly newsletter.
HOLIDAY SCHOOL CLOSINGS
American Karate will be closed for the holiday season Wednesday, Christmas day until Monday January 6th. We wish all of our students and parents, friends and families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! We hope that you come back with renewed goals and prepared to study and train harder than the year before.
TOURNAMENTS
Sam Price’s All Star Karate Championships
November 23, 2013 Hutchinson, Kansas
Chance Barr
1st Place 6-7 Novice Kata
2nd Place 6-7 Novice Kumite
CONSCIOUSLY DOING NOTHING
As of Dec 20, I will enter a long period of recovery from ankle surgery. Not only will the extra bone be removed, but the two ligaments on the outside will be repaired. Great! Oh, wait! 1 week of no weight bearing, 6 weeks of wearing a walking boot 24/7, then another 4-7 months of brace wearing and PT (Physical Therapy) until complete recovery. Oh!
After realizing just how this surgery will impact my training routine, I pulled out “Zen in the Martial Arts” by Joe Hyams. And, of course, the next chapter I was to read is perfectly timed.
Joe relates 2 conversations regarding consciously doing nothing – the first with Bronislaw Kaper and the second with Bruce Lee. Here’s what I’ve gleaned from his sharing:
Kaper imparted that consciously doing nothing compares to the necessity of a pause in music. A master musician knows when and for how long to pause in comparison to the overall musical piece. A martial artist, too, knows when to take a break – not just in overall training, but in a sparring match, in a kata, in learning – for the benefit of the overall journey. For me, I’ve always hated taking a break. For some reason, that has equated to failure for me, like I’m a failure if I can’t keep going. But the musical analogy deeply resonates with me as I am also a musician. So, I now am looking at this time of recovery as a gift. Overall, the first 7 weeks of recovery are but a blip in the almost 15 years that I’ve trained in total.
Consciously doing nothing gives a martial artist a chance to reflect, assess, watch the effects of a choice, and adjust. Bruce told Joe, “I include pause and silence along with activity, thus allowing myself time to sense my own internal processes as well as my opponent’s”. To me, this is the core of consciously doing nothing. It has a purpose, it is not pure laziness. I can take control of myself – pause, assess, respond instead of react. This puts me in the driver’s seat rather than the opponent. We must constantly pause and assess the effects our actions have on our opponents so that we can respond effectively – which puts us in control, not the opponent. It’s kind of like Mr. Williams teaching us to create our defensive space after we’ve been attacked and caught off guard – get your hands up, create your space, take a breath, assess the situation.
I practice this concept as a math teacher, almost daily in my planning time. Without it, I would not know where my students are, how to adjust lessons to meet their abilities, when to pause and let them wrestle with the material to master it. I also practice this as a youth group leader at church. So it is now time to practice what I preach for myself. The first 7 weeks will give me plenty of time to practice this: pausing (no weight bearing will help enforce this!), assessing myself and my opponent (whether that is my ankle, my training during this initial down time, or my frustrations and emotions), and responding accordingly. After that, I must pause, reassess, and respond as I work through PT, pain, limitations, and healing.
Growth requires down time. Our culture “preaches” against down time and floods our minds with messages of “keep going”, “don’t quit”, “move, move, move”, “this deal is only for a short time”. These messages in and of themselves are not bad unless they are out of balance – like they have been in my life. So I challenge you. Are you making time to consciously do nothing? If you aren’t, will you?
Cristine Warring, AKMS Black Belt
URBAN SELFDEFENSE (A Definition) Part I of II
What is Urban Self Defense (USD)? One may define it as something dealing with the inner city or the city outside of the inner city. In my opinion it could be a state of mind, because where ever you are whether it is in the city, the inner city, the country, the suburban environment your MIND will be there to respond to the situation at hand.
To draw this illustration, I will attempt to summarize with various thoughts of actions. USD is not always about fighting or defending. It includes preparation and mitigation for a potential situation, which may occur in an Urban (which, I use lightly) setting.
Preparedness mentally, in my belief is the ‘loins’ share of USD. If, a person has mentally, prepared for potential situations to defend themselves against, then it will become a reaction, because it is already planted in their minds. Of course, adjustments to any situation a person has prepared for is warranted.
In my daily walk in whatever setting, i.e. the office, home, streets, bus, car, restaurant, sitting on the toilet, sitting at a table, etc, I always visualize a technique or way to defend or escape from these settings. If, I am walking down the street day or night, I look for shadows and listen for sounds, which may be contrary to safe passage along that corridor. Also, if, I am the only person on this path, and I see a shadow overtake mine, then I know someone is approaching, now whether it be friend or foe is determined by several factors, i.e. rate of speed the shadow overtakes mine, spatial distance of the two shadows, left side approach vs. right side approach, etc.
In recalling techniques to use in an Urban Self Defense setting was when terrorist were bombing us (overseas environment), shooting United Nation’s staff in broad daylight; it was imperative that I provide myself with some tale-tell signs on my car should someone have planted a bomb under my hood. If, any of those tale-tell signs were tampered with or not, and my gut feelings were not to access the car, then I wouldn’t, and would walk to work or find alternative transportation.
USD could include mitigation of a potential hazard. One can avoid numerous hazards with some forethought and actions. For instance, approaching your car doing day or night in a parking area, store, home, etc at a predetermined distance, the person needs to observe his/her vehicle before actually approaching it. Look to see if, anyone is standing by your vehicle, and if not seen, if you see feet near the tires. This could indicate someone is crouching or kneeling out of sight for a possible attack or they are tying their shoes. You can prevent potential harm by assessing this situation before hand.
In conversation with a close friend of mine who conducts national workshops on Domestic Violence (DV), we concluded DV can happen at anytime and anywhere. Usually, it is in an office setting. And, when a perpetrator is adamant about causing harm to a person they are anger with or hurt by and others, they stop at nothing.
In one of my past employments, I had informed the receptionist to be prepared should a situation develop in a scenario of such; and the security guard is inattentive, gets ‘taken out’ before he/she can react, etc. In this case, I informed her to look at several points of escape. Play over in her mind what she would do should an aggressor broach the main door, and neutralize the security guard, whereas, even in her ‘terrorified’ state of mind her mental pre-planning (mitigation) takes over.
A few other instances of Urban Self Defense are to be able to profile a potential assailant. Have some idea of the psychology of an aggressor. Also, know some defense and offense techniques to use.
Another instance in defining USD is being prepared to mitigate for and against emergencies when your water is turned off or has been contaminated. How to survive when the gas is turned off or disrupted, shortage of food, and this list could go on and on with no ending.
In a so-called civil society and somewhat in a peace time status, people should have an emergency kit prepared, and at the ready. The kit should include the essentials, i.e. food, water, medication (rotated in for freshness), batteries, reading materials, radio, personal products for cleanliness, set of change clothing (optional), striking materials for starting fire and matches, and anything to prolong your survival capabilities.
Whether people accept it or not in our society, confusion does control groups and the masses through a theory I call Confusion Conspiracy (CC). I see how government and the events around the world are developing, which supports my theory. It is a form of control, and one must be aware of it to survive, as one of their USD techniques.
In one of my middle school karate classes taught to the students of a school in Texas, I attempted to prepare those urban city or suburban city students with good citizenship in the dojo, in their classroom, at home, and on the streets. Be a solution to a problem and not the problem itself. Be prepared mentally and physically, humble and kind, and tough when need be, as a ‘way of life’ as the Martial Arts would teach them.
My thinking pattern or philosophy is simple. I try to keep it simple, and I have always attempted to be a very peaceful person. Also, I have never looked for trouble; however, it has always found me. This was more so during my pre-teens to my early twenties. Everyone who was able to ‘fall’ the mountain, because, I am a big guy in statue, whether I knew the Martial Arts or not, I am rather strong physically, as my late grandmother would say, “strong as an ox”. The neighborhood boys would always attack me in groups of three or more or from behind. As a ‘gentle giant’, for a long time I didn’t know how to deal with my hurt, and rage for being picked on. I would be so angry, that I desired total bodily harm towards retaliation for my attackers. However, due to a strong minded Mom, an uncle, a sister, and Mrs. Johnson (neighborhood Mom); I never fulfilled my retaliation spree. I did have an uncontrollable temper, which almost killed a teenager. And, from that point on, I decided from within to be master over my temperament. Not to foolishly react in rage and thoughtless abandonment, even if I had only a few seconds to respond. In My Opinion, what do you think? Feedback at www.youngsankarate.com; provide comments on the Feedback page. (Part II of II in the next newsletter issue)
H. James Young, Chief Instructor, Young San Karate
Sunday, December 1, 2013
Saturday, November 23, 2013
Sam Price’s All Star Karate Championships
Karate Tournament Results
November 23, 2013
Chance Barr
1st Place 6-7 Novice Kata
2nd Place 6-7 Novice Kumite
Hutchinson, Kansas
November 23, 2013
Chance Barr
1st Place 6-7 Novice Kata
2nd Place 6-7 Novice Kumite
Hutchinson, Kansas
Friday, November 1, 2013
November 2013 Newsletter
NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER
WEBSITE HAS NEW LOOK
If you have not been to our main website you will find that it has a new look. Visit us and let us know what you think. I want to thank AKMS Black Belt, Cristine Warring for creating the new look. If you own an business and need a new website or a change give Cristine a call.
WOMEN’S SELF DEFENSE
Women’s Self Defense was few in number this year but serious in practitioners. The ladies had a great time working on skills and tools. We look forward to more karate moms, friends and family come April. We will be doing another workshop in support of Crime Victims Month. I want to thank all the Instructor-Coaches that assisted last month including a guest appearance by HCF’s Defensive Tactics Instructor, Jeri Fraipont.
SPECIAL GUEST
Maryland based karate instructor and AKMS associate instructor, H. James Young will be in town to visit and train this month. The adult classes will be combined the week of November 11th through the 15th. Keep in mind that Monday the 11th is a State holiday and AKMS will not be open.
Monday November 11th, NO CLASSES
Tuesday November 12th 6:30-8:00 All Adults
Wednesday November 13th 7:30-8:30 All Adults
Thursday November 14th 6:30-8:00 All Adults
HOLIDAY SPECIALS
We have several Holiday Specials now through the New Year. One special is for new enrollments. We will be offering an introductory enrollment of six weeks for $45.00 for an Individual Plan and $99.00 for a Family Plan when you sign up on a six or twelve month plan.
The other specials are in the Holiday Gift Guide by Century Martial Arts. There are many new items for the holidays and a special sparring gear bundle for those that need to purchase sparring gear. Keep in mind that all of your martial arts needs can be purchased at the school and we also have gift certificates. If you are ordering gifts for Christmas please place your order by December 10th to ensure that your item is in stock or arrives in plenty of time. See Mr. or Mrs. Williams to place your orders.
FIVE STATES OF MIND
There are many benefits to participating in the martial arts: physical fitness, strength training, confidence building, discipline, developing a stronger work ethic, and more. When thinking about the mental health reasons for investing time in the martial arts, one must also consider these identified five (5) states of mind.*
1. Consciousness: Knowing what and how I’m thinking about what I am doing in this moment and being willing to be aware of my actions and their effects.
2. Craftsmanship: Knowing that I can continually perfect my craft and being willing to work toward excellence and pursue ongoing learning.
3. Efficacy: Knowing that I have the capacity to make a difference through my work and being willing to take the responsibility to do so.
4. Flexibility: Knowing that I have and can develop options to consider about my work and being willing to acknowledge and demonstrate respect and empathy for diverse perspectives.
5. Interdependence: Knowing that we will benefit from our participation in, contribution to and receipt of professional relationships, and being willing to create and change relationships to benefit our work.
Five verbs that compliment these states of mind are:
1. knowing (consciousness)
2. striving (craftsmanship)
3. initiating (efficacy)
4. adjusting (flexibility)
5. participating (interdependence)
How are you seeing these states of mind reflected in your martial arts experience?
*from Center for Cognitive Coaching, www.cognitivecoaching.com
Respectfully submitted,
Jean Gaeddert, Black Belt 5th Dan
TRAINING SESSION FILMING/VIDEO TAPING
A practical part of training can be an enhancement for review for corrections, publications, and distribution is by filming or videotaping the session(s). There are benefits to this type of mechanics, because, it can give the trainee a visual of how their performance looks.
When I was training in Europe, we always filmed our training, as well as, our performances in martial art tournaments. It was a great help in analyzing our performances. However, before we got to the serious part, we laughed at some of the things we saw on the film happening to our brother or sister in the kata’s or kumite. We would ask, Daryl didn’t you see the kick up side your head coming? Or, Daryl why were you on the floor or something like that. Putting all joking aside, we got down to the analyzing of the film to help in improving our performances. Plus, the karateka could see themselve’s in the film explaining about a good technique or no technique at all. Filming does serve some beneficial attributes in your martial arts training and completion.
Putting aside all of the benefits for filming or videotaping, one must prepare for this type action for training purposes. The list of actions to take in preparing to film or tape numerous, and my list is not all inclusive, but a portion of the actions, I took to film my training.
The action to film, one must select a location, i.e. inside of a building space or outside. Also, you must determine what type of background you want, i.e. ocean, concrete/wood/sand floorings, blue/green sheet, tropical, junky/debris area, etc. If, you are filming on the beach in all that sand or in the water, keep in mind, the movement of your hand and feet techniques will cause you to adjust your speed and balance. Why, an adjustment for the hands, which are not in the sand or water? Think about it? The power you are exerting in your hand techniques will torque you. And, your feet in the sand and water must be grounded well your stance to maintain your balance and absorb your speed while executing techniques in these surface spaces. When you do selection a filming location think about your background.
You want your background in the filming to be conducive to what you are doing, because it will either, add or detract from what your performance desires to project. You should select a time of the day; especially should the training take place outside. Inside should not present an issue, as long as, the lighting is good in order for the viewer to see the hand and foot techniques clearly. On the contrary, for outside filming, the sun will be an aid or problem. So, select a good time of time to film and use the sun to help you.
When you take advantage of the sun, always have the position of this natural stage to your back and the filming equipment. Position your subject/trainee to reduce shadows falling in the forefront. Use different angles, of course, maintaining the sun to your back. In the event you are filming outside at night, the lighting is crucial, and it must be adequate, however, not overwhelming to provide excellent viewing of the techniques clearly.
If, you are filming alone, i.e. without an assistant, then preposition your equipment to capture the training with all of the parameters listed thus far to have a good shot with the trainee captured from head to foot throughout the training space. Always, do tests run to adjust for height and angle for the filmed training. Of course, you will have to adjust your start points for different kata’s to get all of it in the frames when you filming alone. Use markings on the floor surface to adjust ensuring you capture all of the karateka and weapon in the filming frame. These marking should be invisible to the camera, and only you know what they mean and can see them, unless it is a close up, and it’s seen. If, this should happen, then you have an assistant working with you. All of the filming in this conversation is filming alone.
One thing you should remember, as well, is to have several gi’s available for the filming to give the fresh pressed look. Also, wear the bright or lighter colored tops for dark complexion subjects in order to see the hand techniques, and not as bright of a top for subjects with lighter complexions.
You want to ensure you determine the speed of the execution of the techniques, perhaps, somewhere between half speeds, but not so slow you become lethargic in performing the technique. You know what I mean… Right.??
Well, if you have read this far, I hope you have grasped some of the actions to consider in filming or videotaping training. As always, your comments are requested, if any at www.youngsankarate.com. Click on the feedback tab and provide your input. In My Opinion, Think About It!
H. James Young, Chief Instructor, Young San Karate.
IS YOUR JOURNEY TRULY YOUR OWN?
As martial arts instructors we help students learn the skills and tools they need to learn and excel to the best of their ability. As a martial arts instructor we demonstrate techniques, explain the principles behind them while breaking techniques down into simple moves when working with beginners. We observe and assess students, and give them feedback on their progress taking responsibility for their health and safety while teaching safe training methods.
The martial arts instructor sets their students on a path to develop self-confidence, self-discipline, character building and a higher level of fitness. What we are not, are seekers of minions or mini-me’s devoted to serve his/her master/mistress relentlessly. Don’t get me wrong! There are periods of your journey where like a toddler you will learn by mimicking the instructor’s movements. The key to training and study is to train and work your craft until it becomes second nature and your own. During your journey you may find many paths. One path to better health and fitness, another path to self defense, another path to sport and competition and yet another path to a lifelong study of the arts. The beauty of the martial arts is that you may journey through any one or all of these trails before your journey is complete. The best part of it all is that you decide when your journey is complete…not the instructor! So….ask yourself. Is your journey truly your own?
Thomas Williams, Chief Instructor
If you have not been to our main website you will find that it has a new look. Visit us and let us know what you think. I want to thank AKMS Black Belt, Cristine Warring for creating the new look. If you own an business and need a new website or a change give Cristine a call.
WOMEN’S SELF DEFENSE
Women’s Self Defense was few in number this year but serious in practitioners. The ladies had a great time working on skills and tools. We look forward to more karate moms, friends and family come April. We will be doing another workshop in support of Crime Victims Month. I want to thank all the Instructor-Coaches that assisted last month including a guest appearance by HCF’s Defensive Tactics Instructor, Jeri Fraipont.
SPECIAL GUEST
Maryland based karate instructor and AKMS associate instructor, H. James Young will be in town to visit and train this month. The adult classes will be combined the week of November 11th through the 15th. Keep in mind that Monday the 11th is a State holiday and AKMS will not be open.
Monday November 11th, NO CLASSES
Tuesday November 12th 6:30-8:00 All Adults
Wednesday November 13th 7:30-8:30 All Adults
Thursday November 14th 6:30-8:00 All Adults
HOLIDAY SPECIALS
We have several Holiday Specials now through the New Year. One special is for new enrollments. We will be offering an introductory enrollment of six weeks for $45.00 for an Individual Plan and $99.00 for a Family Plan when you sign up on a six or twelve month plan.
The other specials are in the Holiday Gift Guide by Century Martial Arts. There are many new items for the holidays and a special sparring gear bundle for those that need to purchase sparring gear. Keep in mind that all of your martial arts needs can be purchased at the school and we also have gift certificates. If you are ordering gifts for Christmas please place your order by December 10th to ensure that your item is in stock or arrives in plenty of time. See Mr. or Mrs. Williams to place your orders.
FIVE STATES OF MIND
There are many benefits to participating in the martial arts: physical fitness, strength training, confidence building, discipline, developing a stronger work ethic, and more. When thinking about the mental health reasons for investing time in the martial arts, one must also consider these identified five (5) states of mind.*
1. Consciousness: Knowing what and how I’m thinking about what I am doing in this moment and being willing to be aware of my actions and their effects.
2. Craftsmanship: Knowing that I can continually perfect my craft and being willing to work toward excellence and pursue ongoing learning.
3. Efficacy: Knowing that I have the capacity to make a difference through my work and being willing to take the responsibility to do so.
4. Flexibility: Knowing that I have and can develop options to consider about my work and being willing to acknowledge and demonstrate respect and empathy for diverse perspectives.
5. Interdependence: Knowing that we will benefit from our participation in, contribution to and receipt of professional relationships, and being willing to create and change relationships to benefit our work.
Five verbs that compliment these states of mind are:
1. knowing (consciousness)
2. striving (craftsmanship)
3. initiating (efficacy)
4. adjusting (flexibility)
5. participating (interdependence)
How are you seeing these states of mind reflected in your martial arts experience?
*from Center for Cognitive Coaching, www.cognitivecoaching.com
Respectfully submitted,
Jean Gaeddert, Black Belt 5th Dan
TRAINING SESSION FILMING/VIDEO TAPING
A practical part of training can be an enhancement for review for corrections, publications, and distribution is by filming or videotaping the session(s). There are benefits to this type of mechanics, because, it can give the trainee a visual of how their performance looks.
When I was training in Europe, we always filmed our training, as well as, our performances in martial art tournaments. It was a great help in analyzing our performances. However, before we got to the serious part, we laughed at some of the things we saw on the film happening to our brother or sister in the kata’s or kumite. We would ask, Daryl didn’t you see the kick up side your head coming? Or, Daryl why were you on the floor or something like that. Putting all joking aside, we got down to the analyzing of the film to help in improving our performances. Plus, the karateka could see themselve’s in the film explaining about a good technique or no technique at all. Filming does serve some beneficial attributes in your martial arts training and completion.
Putting aside all of the benefits for filming or videotaping, one must prepare for this type action for training purposes. The list of actions to take in preparing to film or tape numerous, and my list is not all inclusive, but a portion of the actions, I took to film my training.
The action to film, one must select a location, i.e. inside of a building space or outside. Also, you must determine what type of background you want, i.e. ocean, concrete/wood/sand floorings, blue/green sheet, tropical, junky/debris area, etc. If, you are filming on the beach in all that sand or in the water, keep in mind, the movement of your hand and feet techniques will cause you to adjust your speed and balance. Why, an adjustment for the hands, which are not in the sand or water? Think about it? The power you are exerting in your hand techniques will torque you. And, your feet in the sand and water must be grounded well your stance to maintain your balance and absorb your speed while executing techniques in these surface spaces. When you do selection a filming location think about your background.
You want your background in the filming to be conducive to what you are doing, because it will either, add or detract from what your performance desires to project. You should select a time of the day; especially should the training take place outside. Inside should not present an issue, as long as, the lighting is good in order for the viewer to see the hand and foot techniques clearly. On the contrary, for outside filming, the sun will be an aid or problem. So, select a good time of time to film and use the sun to help you.
When you take advantage of the sun, always have the position of this natural stage to your back and the filming equipment. Position your subject/trainee to reduce shadows falling in the forefront. Use different angles, of course, maintaining the sun to your back. In the event you are filming outside at night, the lighting is crucial, and it must be adequate, however, not overwhelming to provide excellent viewing of the techniques clearly.
If, you are filming alone, i.e. without an assistant, then preposition your equipment to capture the training with all of the parameters listed thus far to have a good shot with the trainee captured from head to foot throughout the training space. Always, do tests run to adjust for height and angle for the filmed training. Of course, you will have to adjust your start points for different kata’s to get all of it in the frames when you filming alone. Use markings on the floor surface to adjust ensuring you capture all of the karateka and weapon in the filming frame. These marking should be invisible to the camera, and only you know what they mean and can see them, unless it is a close up, and it’s seen. If, this should happen, then you have an assistant working with you. All of the filming in this conversation is filming alone.
One thing you should remember, as well, is to have several gi’s available for the filming to give the fresh pressed look. Also, wear the bright or lighter colored tops for dark complexion subjects in order to see the hand techniques, and not as bright of a top for subjects with lighter complexions.
You want to ensure you determine the speed of the execution of the techniques, perhaps, somewhere between half speeds, but not so slow you become lethargic in performing the technique. You know what I mean… Right.??
Well, if you have read this far, I hope you have grasped some of the actions to consider in filming or videotaping training. As always, your comments are requested, if any at www.youngsankarate.com. Click on the feedback tab and provide your input. In My Opinion, Think About It!
H. James Young, Chief Instructor, Young San Karate.
IS YOUR JOURNEY TRULY YOUR OWN?
As martial arts instructors we help students learn the skills and tools they need to learn and excel to the best of their ability. As a martial arts instructor we demonstrate techniques, explain the principles behind them while breaking techniques down into simple moves when working with beginners. We observe and assess students, and give them feedback on their progress taking responsibility for their health and safety while teaching safe training methods.
The martial arts instructor sets their students on a path to develop self-confidence, self-discipline, character building and a higher level of fitness. What we are not, are seekers of minions or mini-me’s devoted to serve his/her master/mistress relentlessly. Don’t get me wrong! There are periods of your journey where like a toddler you will learn by mimicking the instructor’s movements. The key to training and study is to train and work your craft until it becomes second nature and your own. During your journey you may find many paths. One path to better health and fitness, another path to self defense, another path to sport and competition and yet another path to a lifelong study of the arts. The beauty of the martial arts is that you may journey through any one or all of these trails before your journey is complete. The best part of it all is that you decide when your journey is complete…not the instructor! So….ask yourself. Is your journey truly your own?
Thomas Williams, Chief Instructor
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
October 2013 Newsletter
FAMILY TRAGEDY
Prayers go out to the Vanachen family. Sam Vanachen, a former student of American Karate is facing serious charges for death of his mother Karla and sister, Audrey. Sam’s father survives. For the short time he was a student her was quiet and well mannered. As an instructor I struggle to identify any signs that would lead me to believe that he was capable of the crimes he is now facing.
BELT TESTS
Friday September 20th - Adult Belt Test
Everette Gould-Gold Belt
Dawson Deetz-Green Belt
Saturday September 21st - Youth Belt Test
Chance Barr-Gold Belt
Damian Hurt-Gold Belt
Jake Winters-Gold Belt
Alex Johnson-Jr. Green Belt
Elijah Bruch-Jr. Green Belt
Cayden Deetz-Green Belt
Levi Geesling-Purple Belt
Shayla Johnson-Jr. Brown Belt
TOURNAMENTS
Saturday, September 21st - Kent Clayborn Tournament, El Dorado, Ks.
Dakota Douglas
1st Youth Intermediate Kata
1st Youth Intermediate Sparring
MARTIAL ARTS EXHIBITION
We attended the Burton, Kansas Fall Festival on the 28th. Everyone did a good job during the exhibition. After their performance Mr. Williams and several students gave an interactive lesson on basics and bullying. Ms. Gaeddert, Ms. Brown and Ms Marquez gave an interactive lesson to the women on self defense. Mr. Williams would like to thank the students and parents that supported and participated in this event.
MARTIAL SPIRIT
Martial Artists always look inward. This means that they evaluate themselves, truthfully seeking faults that can be corrected just as they always look at their own techniques and seek ways to improve them. You cannot control the actions of other people, but you can control yourself so that even if someone else acts inappropriately, your own conduct is your own responsibility and is not excused by what someone else may have done.
The spiritual aspects of the Martial Arts are not as mystical and abstruse as they seem. The physical and mental training hones the spirit as well as the body, and the practitioner will naturally change in personality as well as physically. From unremitting training comes indomitable spirit; from the great exertion sometimes required to achieve even modest goals comes modesty; from a knowledge of how much you do not know comes humility; from the realization that only you can judge yourself and that “faking it” only hurts yourself comes honesty; from a realization of that the effort you put into your training is equaled or exceeded by the efforts of others comes respect; and from the recognition of your own shortcomings that become apparent during your training comes tolerance. The spirit of the Martial Arts is not separate from the practice: it is a part of the practice
IT’S NOT ABOUT GETTING A BLACK BELT; IT’S ABOUT BEING ONE
To so many people, getting their black belt is their ultimate goal, and once they accomplish that goal, they are done with the martial arts. Their black belt is basically no more than a trophy or certificate of participation for them, much like someone who wants to run the Boulder Bolder just one time in their life. They worked hard to get their black belt, and now they are happy.
This is wrong thinking. For the martial arts to really be what they are meant to be, they have to become a part of who you are. Martial arts are not really about winning trophies and getting belts. True martial arts are a way of life. In the same way, your goal should not be to GET a black belt, but to BE a black belt. Any moron can go online and buy a black belt for very little money. I understand, people who just want a black belt don't want to buy it, they want to earn it, and that is admirable. But hopefully their instructor will instill the love of the warrior lifestyle into them during their quest, and it will become more of a quest to BE a black belt than to GET a black belt and put it in their trophy case.
So what does it mean to be a black belt? It means different things to different people, but to me it means you have shown your perseverance and dedication to the martial arts and are ready to continue your learning, along with helping others who are just starting their journey. It means a greater responsibility to both your dojo and to the lower belts who train in your dojo.
New students in the martial arts look up to the black belts. As a black belt, you have a duty to set a good example for the novice martial artist. You are a mentor to these students and should show the honor and character that once were considered a part of being a black belt. You represent your martial art, your instructor, and your organization. And, you represent yourself. Do so with honor, character, and integrity.
Once you are a black belt, people have greater expectations of you. These traits and expectations should have been taught to you during your training to become a black belt. Character training is a vital part of martial arts training, but has fallen to the wayside over the past years. Maybe it is time to bring honor, character and integrity back to the dojo and produce real black belts instead of just presenting trophy belts.
Bohdi Sanders ~ MODERN BUSHIDO: Living a Life of Excellence
Prayers go out to the Vanachen family. Sam Vanachen, a former student of American Karate is facing serious charges for death of his mother Karla and sister, Audrey. Sam’s father survives. For the short time he was a student her was quiet and well mannered. As an instructor I struggle to identify any signs that would lead me to believe that he was capable of the crimes he is now facing.
BELT TESTS
Friday September 20th - Adult Belt Test
Everette Gould-Gold Belt
Dawson Deetz-Green Belt
Saturday September 21st - Youth Belt Test
Chance Barr-Gold Belt
Damian Hurt-Gold Belt
Jake Winters-Gold Belt
Alex Johnson-Jr. Green Belt
Elijah Bruch-Jr. Green Belt
Cayden Deetz-Green Belt
Levi Geesling-Purple Belt
Shayla Johnson-Jr. Brown Belt
TOURNAMENTS
Saturday, September 21st - Kent Clayborn Tournament, El Dorado, Ks.
Dakota Douglas
1st Youth Intermediate Kata
1st Youth Intermediate Sparring
MARTIAL ARTS EXHIBITION
We attended the Burton, Kansas Fall Festival on the 28th. Everyone did a good job during the exhibition. After their performance Mr. Williams and several students gave an interactive lesson on basics and bullying. Ms. Gaeddert, Ms. Brown and Ms Marquez gave an interactive lesson to the women on self defense. Mr. Williams would like to thank the students and parents that supported and participated in this event.
MARTIAL SPIRIT
Martial Artists always look inward. This means that they evaluate themselves, truthfully seeking faults that can be corrected just as they always look at their own techniques and seek ways to improve them. You cannot control the actions of other people, but you can control yourself so that even if someone else acts inappropriately, your own conduct is your own responsibility and is not excused by what someone else may have done.
The spiritual aspects of the Martial Arts are not as mystical and abstruse as they seem. The physical and mental training hones the spirit as well as the body, and the practitioner will naturally change in personality as well as physically. From unremitting training comes indomitable spirit; from the great exertion sometimes required to achieve even modest goals comes modesty; from a knowledge of how much you do not know comes humility; from the realization that only you can judge yourself and that “faking it” only hurts yourself comes honesty; from a realization of that the effort you put into your training is equaled or exceeded by the efforts of others comes respect; and from the recognition of your own shortcomings that become apparent during your training comes tolerance. The spirit of the Martial Arts is not separate from the practice: it is a part of the practice
IT’S NOT ABOUT GETTING A BLACK BELT; IT’S ABOUT BEING ONE
To so many people, getting their black belt is their ultimate goal, and once they accomplish that goal, they are done with the martial arts. Their black belt is basically no more than a trophy or certificate of participation for them, much like someone who wants to run the Boulder Bolder just one time in their life. They worked hard to get their black belt, and now they are happy.
This is wrong thinking. For the martial arts to really be what they are meant to be, they have to become a part of who you are. Martial arts are not really about winning trophies and getting belts. True martial arts are a way of life. In the same way, your goal should not be to GET a black belt, but to BE a black belt. Any moron can go online and buy a black belt for very little money. I understand, people who just want a black belt don't want to buy it, they want to earn it, and that is admirable. But hopefully their instructor will instill the love of the warrior lifestyle into them during their quest, and it will become more of a quest to BE a black belt than to GET a black belt and put it in their trophy case.
So what does it mean to be a black belt? It means different things to different people, but to me it means you have shown your perseverance and dedication to the martial arts and are ready to continue your learning, along with helping others who are just starting their journey. It means a greater responsibility to both your dojo and to the lower belts who train in your dojo.
New students in the martial arts look up to the black belts. As a black belt, you have a duty to set a good example for the novice martial artist. You are a mentor to these students and should show the honor and character that once were considered a part of being a black belt. You represent your martial art, your instructor, and your organization. And, you represent yourself. Do so with honor, character, and integrity.
Once you are a black belt, people have greater expectations of you. These traits and expectations should have been taught to you during your training to become a black belt. Character training is a vital part of martial arts training, but has fallen to the wayside over the past years. Maybe it is time to bring honor, character and integrity back to the dojo and produce real black belts instead of just presenting trophy belts.
Bohdi Sanders ~ MODERN BUSHIDO: Living a Life of Excellence
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Kent Clayborn Tournament Results
Karate Tournament Results
Saturday, September 21st
Dakota Douglas
1st Youth Intermediate Kata
1st Youth Intermediate Sparring
El Dorado, KS
Saturday, September 21st
Dakota Douglas
1st Youth Intermediate Kata
1st Youth Intermediate Sparring
El Dorado, KS
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