Jiu-Jitsu can be an intimidating martial art to get started in. Gyms are often full of experienced practitioners that started training at a young age and have grown up in the sport. It can be very challenging to step on the mat for the first time with no prior grappling or martial arts experience, especially in a martial art where progress comes slowly. So what can you expect to learn in your first few jiu-jitsu classes? Below is a list of the most common things you’ll learn when you first walk in the door. Mat Etiquette First and foremost, you’re going to learn ‘mat etiquette.’ This generally means that you’ll learn the do’s and don’ts regarding behavior, cleanliness, and general expectations for students at your particular academy. These practices vary widely between academies. Some are very competition focused, where you’ll be expected to give it your all each session, pushing through exhaustion. Other academies have programs developed around self-defense, where students will be presented with a variety of common self-defense situations and be shown the solutions starting at a slower pace. You’ll likely want to first identify your goals for your practice and then visit multiple academies to find the best fit for you. Body Mechanics One of the most surprising realizations for new jiu-jitsu students is how different the foundational movements are from other sports. Shrimping, bridging, leg pummeling, breakfalls and level changing are part of every grappling training session, but have likely not been practiced and refined unless you’ve trained another grappling art. These movements are often incorporated into jiu-jitsu warmups, so you’ll likely get a lot of practice with these movements early on in your training. Techniques & Positions When you first think of starting jiu-jitsu, you probably think about techniques you’ve seen in MMA or on YouTube. While the arm bars and triangles may not come first, they will be part of your first few jiu-jitsu classes. You’ll likely focus on just a few techniques per class, but you’ll also be introduced to the main positions of the art. These include closed guard, half guard, side control, mount, and back mount, among many, many others. It’s important to learn the positional hierarchy along with the techniques so you have a general direction and goal when you start sparring. Sparring Live training, or sparring, is an essential part of jiu-jitsu and sets it apart from many other martial arts. In more traditional forms of martial arts, you’ll often learn kata, or memorized movement patterns that are done individually. In jiu-jitsu it’s common to do full sparring with a resisting opponent every session. Fighting against a fully resisting opponent is a big part of what makes jiu-jitsu so effective for self-defense. While not every academy will have students spar in their first few days, many will. Often times students will start with positional sparring from a specific position. This is done to focus on specific techniques and also to avoid injury. Your first jiu-jitsu class can be intimidating, but the vast majority of academies have a welcoming environment and will walk you through each step of the process slowly and carefully. I hope you can find the right academy to train at near you!

Amanda Nunes, the greatest women's mixed martial artist in history, did it one more time defending her bantamweight championship with a lopsided decision over Irene Aldana and then telling the crowd she was calling it a career at UFC 289, Saturday. Fighting in Vancouver, Canada, the main event was little more than a sparring session for the champion as Aldana, a replacement for Julianna Pena, seemed content to just last the distance mounting little offense throughout. Aldana kept her hands high and tight in a boxer's peek-a-boo guard barely throwing anything over the first half of the fight as Nunes landed punches, kicks and elbows. She took Aldana down in the first and second rounds but never bothered to follow her to the ground. Nunes finally decided to take it to the mat in the third wrestling Aldana down several times and controlling her for a long stretch. Aldana was marginally more active over the last 2 rounds but it only allowed Nunes to hit her with some harder shots in the fourth, then take her down and control her for almost the whole of the fifth round. After the decision was announced, Nunes laid her bantamweight and featherweight championship belts and her gloves down in the middle of the octagon as she announced her retirement from the sport. If she stays retired, she'll finish with a career record of 23-5 and as the only woman to have captured UFC titles in two weight classes. She holds wins over some of the greatest female fighters ever including Cris Cyborg, Ronda Rousey and twice over Valentina Shevchenko.

Kali Silat is a martial art that originated in the Southeast Asian region, specifically in Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia. It is a style that is heavily focused on weaponry, and practitioners are trained in using various traditional weapons, such as the stick, knife, and machete, as well as empty hand techniques. The style also emphasizes footwork, speed, and agility, making it a highly dynamic and fast-paced martial art. Origins and History: Kali Silat is a term that combines two distinct martial arts styles: Kali and Silat. Kali, also known as Eskrima or Arnis, is a Filipino martial art that uses sticks, knives, and empty hands, while Silat is a traditional martial art from Indonesia and Malaysia that focuses on striking, grappling, and joint locking techniques. The combination of Kali and Silat is believed to have emerged during the 16th century when the Indonesian and Filipino islands were under the rule of the Spanish empire. The native warriors developed Kali as a form of self-defense against the Spanish colonizers, who were armed with swords and other weapons. In response, the Filipino warriors developed a highly effective fighting system that utilized sticks and knives. As time passed, the style evolved and became known as Kali Silat, with the techniques and principles of the two styles merging and complementing each other. Today, Kali Silat is practiced in many parts of the world, and it has become one of the most popular martial arts styles, particularly for those who are interested in weapons-based fighting. Techniques and Training: Kali Silat emphasizes footwork and positioning, as well as speed and agility, making it a highly dynamic and fast-paced martial art. Practitioners are trained to use weapons such as sticks, knives, and machetes, as well as empty hand techniques. The style has a unique approach to training, with practitioners often starting with weapons training before moving on to empty hand techniques. This is because the principles of Kali Silat can be applied to both armed and unarmed combat. In addition to weapons training, Kali Silat also incorporates grappling and joint locking techniques, as well as striking and kicking techniques. The style also includes training in the use of improvised weapons, such as pens, belts, and other everyday objects that can be used for self-defense. Benefits of Kali Silat: Kali Silat is an excellent martial art for those who are interested in weapons-based combat. The style emphasizes footwork, speed, and agility, making it an excellent way to improve overall fitness and coordination. In addition, the use of weapons in training can help to improve hand-eye coordination and reaction time. The style also has many practical applications, particularly for those who are interested in self-defense. Kali Silat teaches practitioners to be aware of their surroundings, and to be able to defend themselves in a variety of situations, whether armed or unarmed. Summary: Kali Silat is a highly dynamic and effective martial art that combines the principles of two distinct styles, Kali and Silat. The style is heavily focused on weapons training, with practitioners being trained to use sticks, knives, and other traditional weapons, as well as empty hand techniques. Kali Silat is an excellent way to improve overall fitness and coordination, as well as to learn practical self-defense skills. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced martial artist, Kali Silat is a style that is worth exploring. You can start learning Kali Silat from masters like Ron Balicki and Diana Lee Inosanto here! Black Belt+ biggest martial arts digital platform in history. The platform includes thousands of remastered instructional videos, martial arts movies, documentaries, and, of course, digital issues and articles from the iconic Black Belt Magazine . The new app is available on iOS and Android mobile devices and tablets. Or download and subscribe directly from Black Belt at plus.blackbeltmag.com.

Graciela Casillas is a true trailblazer in martial arts. In 1979 she became the first fighter to hold world titles in both boxing and kickboxing by taking the World Women's Boxing Association's and the World Kickboxing Association’s bantamweight championships. Casillas retired undefeated in 1986. She is a multi-style athlete, student, and instructor and her demonstration has paved the way for many. We knew that Graciela Casillas was a legend and had loads of wisdom to share, however, we weren’t ready for her truth bombs and poignant reflections that she shared during her interview. Check out Black Belt+ for more instruction from world-class teachers. *Due to editorial limitations, parts of this interview may have been abbreviated. Black Belt+: As a pioneer of women's fighting, who inspired you? Graciela: My martial arts journey began in 1974 when I joined a taekwondo class offered through the church I attended. At that time the only inspiration I had come from the mystique I believed as a young girl that the arts possessed. When the tae kwon do class came to an end I signed up at a hwa rang do school where my teacher Joo Bang Lee became my inspiration. He moved with grace, fluidity, and speed. His kicking combinations were mesmerizing. However, it was not until I became a professional kickboxer that I met a woman that inspired me to step out of my comfort zone and into the boxing arena. I had the opportunity to train with the world champion, Lilly Rodriguez. She was a small yet fierce fighter. I learned that when she was not kickboxing, she would step into the boxing arena. She was not only a great kickboxer but also a very accomplished boxer. She was my greatest inspiration during my fighting era, and she was a powerful role model for all women. Black Belt+: Black Belt+ was started to help students outside the dojo, what are your expert tips on training solo or remotely? Graciela: We often hear the phrase “practice makes perfect.” However, it is my opinion that only “perfect practice makes perfect.” Focus on what you are being taught in the dojo and supplement it with apps like Black Belt+. If you are a beginner, practice to your level. When you train on your own, focus on one element at a time. Ask your sensei if you can take a video of him/her doing the kata you are learning, having a perfect reference point to emulate. Depending on your style, use the opportunity to work on your mechanics at home. Black Belt+ offers you a wealth of instruction and reference points at the touch of your finger. The app may not replace learning from an instructor in person, however, it can enhance your skills and expose you to a variety of styles and principles. Prior to the invention of apps and online training, you had to find creative ways of training on your own. For example, as a beginner, I used a chair at home to practice my side kicks. A chair serves as a training partner in several ways. First, you can hold onto the back of the chair to practice your kicks in slow motion. This will not only strengthen your legs but also help to develop form and control of your kicks. Secondly, I practiced kicking over the back of the chair which would force me to bring my knee up to an effective position. These are just two examples of how you can solo train. When I first started learning escrima I had minimal experience training with weapons. Although escrima is a well-rounded art, there is a great emphasis on weaponry. As a beginner, I realized that in order to become proficient with the stick and b lade, I would have to get my reps in alone since I did not have a training partner. When I could not remember specific techniques, I recalled Guru Dan Inosanto’s words, “Write your ABCs in the air with your stick.” So, I did, and this simple drill served to develop coordination, flow, and target selection. More than 40 years have passed since I learned this concept and I continue to practice my ABCs with my sticks. Cultivate skills based on your level. Practice techniques taught in class and give yourself permission to be a beginner. In time you will evolve with more complex techniques. Don’t be in a hurry to develop that triple-spinning heel kick when you are still struggling to execute one without falling. Invest the time to learn the techniques that serve to build a solid foundation. After almost 50 years of martial arts training, I still focus on my basics when solo training. Black Belt+: Over the many years you have been so consistent in your curiosity and training. But oftentimes students hit a wall, so what’s your advice for students who lack motivation or want to quit? Graciela: Contributing factors to students losing motivation and the desire to continue showing up to class may depend on a variety of factors, including the age of the student, financial considerations, personal challenges, or school culture. It is not uncommon for a martial artist to hit a wall or lose the motivation to continue on a journey that has no final destination. For those who stay on the path, learning never ceases. So, if you are considering giving up, I would strongly suggest that you first have a meeting with yourself and then with your sensei. Yes, on why you are losing interest. This process can take place mentally, without the need to verbalize it out loud. Another option is to consider the most meaningful questions and write down your answers. I refer to this as meeting personal expectations. Here are some of the questions I would contemplate: 1. What do you think caused you to hit a wall? 2. What kind of wall did you hit? Boredom, too complex, lost interest, too costly? 3. Is the school curriculum and principles aligned with your needs? 4. When did your mood or desire to continue change? 5. Is it the art, school, or teacher that is no longer a good fit? Once you have contemplated your WHY, I would encourage you to communicate your feelings to your sensei. Hopefully, the school environment is positive, with a welcoming culture that is receptive to students expressing concerns. Black Belt+: You have always been a multi-arts martial artist, when do you recommend the best time to branch out and learn other styles? Graciela: I believe it is important to have a strong foundation before branching out. I spent several years training in traditional Korean arts before I branched out and embraced Filipino martial arts. No matter what art you study, there are universal principles that apply. Learning these principles early on will prepare you to excel and expand your knowledge of other arts. The reason we use the term “universal principles” is because certain principles remain constant across all martial arts styles and beyond, including most sports. Examples of these are principles of timing, speed, elements of power, and angles. More basic principles may include, never standing with your knees locked, not overextending, or locking your elbows when punching, when applying a standing arm bar, and never bending over and allowing your head to extend beyond your toes. These are basic principles that hold true regardless of what style you are learning. Developing an understanding of these principles will give you the skills necessary for problem-solving when learning new arts. Black Belt+: What are some changes or developments in self-defense training over the years? Graciela: Traditional martial arts seem to be taking a back seat to Instagram and TikTok. One can find endless videos of questionable self-defense techniques. Young students seem to think that they can learn how to defend themselves by watching a video. There are many great schools with very experienced teachers who are passionate about preparing students to survive a violent assault. “TikTok” techniques may serve as a learning tool for the experienced martial artist who has a strong foundation and looks at them with a trained eye. However, to think that they can take the place of a good instructor is a disservice to the practitioner, and most likely setting the student up for failure, embarrassment, or injury. Self-defense programs continue to evolve as common threats escalate. People continued to be assaulted with edged weapons and held at gunpoint. There was a time when the term “active shooter,” was not commonly used. We are only four months into the new year and according to the Gun Violence Archive, we have had 163 mass shootings to date. As we continue to prepare students for “real life” combative situations, we should consider expanding our curriculum to include, if not already present, weapons training, especially edged weapons and firearms training. As an instructor, I believe in order to be prepared to neutralize a variety of threats, students should learn how to use and defend against a variety of weapons including firearms. Becoming familiar with weaponry can increase your chances of surviving an assault. Beyond developing this skill set, training today also focuses on group dynamics to address the active shooter. This training is offered by schools and colleges for employees and martial arts schools should include this training as part of their curriculum Black Belt+: Today, what is the emphasis of your teaching? Graciela: My teaching emphasis is self-defense; however, I believe that all training should be well-rounded addressing the mind, body, and spirit. I appreciate and respect the artistic side of training and continue to preserve it. I see training on three levels: art, sport, and street. My emphasis is on preparing students for street survival. In doing so, I teach that whenever presented with a threat, one should seek out an equalizer. And, a great equalizer is any implement that can serve as an impact or edge weapon. I learned early on from my teacher Guru Dan Inosanto that learning how to use a weapon increases your chances of surviving if attacked by a weapon-wielding assailant. Being a world champion fighter, I learned that what works in the ring may not work in the street. Instead of emphasizing punching, I teach students to use their elbows combatively. My teaching is driven by a principle that calls for students to develop their reflexes vs. memorizing techniques. Surviving a violent encounter calls for the student’s reaction to be instantaneous, without thought, a simple reflex. Black Belt+: What motivates you to stay passionate about your art? Graciela: After decades of being a student, competitor, and teacher, I have come up with a program that addresses self-defense on three levels: mental, psychological, and physical. It is my belief that the mind should be trained before the body. It does not matter how many arts you study if you do not have the emotional capacity and mental fortitude to face a threat. As an instructor, I find great satisfaction in helping students connect with their warrior spirit, especially women who lack confidence, and the mental ability to defend themselves. I appreciate the opportunity to assist them in getting in touch with the “lioness within.” I am a firm believer that matched with the right program and instructor, the shyest and smallest student can learn to fight back and survive. When a student comes to me and tells me that what they learned in class kept them from becoming a victim, I am reminded why I continue to teach. You can learn more about Graciela here . And follow her on Instagram here. Start training now for free! Instructional videos on Black Belt+ . Download and subscribe directly from Black Belt Magazine at plus.blackbeltmag.com . Or download in the App Store or Google Play.

This Thursday marks the 50th anniversary of the death of the most famous martial artist of all time, the legendary Bruce Lee, and his memory is being celebrated around the globe. From Vancouver to Hong Kong, where the Hong Kong Heritage Museum is honoring the city's favorite son through an exhibition and 5 day summer camp for children, the world is remembering the late martial arts icon. Fans in the United States can remember Lee by visiting the Pico House museum in Los Angeles where a life-size sculpture of Lee executing his trademark sidekick has been unveiled. There are also a series of interactive street murals on display this month in Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York commemorating Lee and his contribution to what became the Cinemax/HBO Max television show "Warrior." A commemorative book, "In My Own Process," featuring never before published writings by Lee and tributes from friends and students like Dan Inosanto, is also scheduled for limited release later this year. Lee, who was inducted into the Black Belt hall of fame as instructor of the year in 1972 and posthumously, as martial artist of the year, in 1974, was born in San Francisco in 1940 but raised in Hong Kong where he was a child actor in movies. He took up wing chun kung fu as a teenager before returning to the United States where he attended the University of Washington and began teaching his own brand of martial arts. Following a demonstration at the Long Beach International Karate Championships, he was hired to play the part of Kato in the Green Hornet television series. Though the show was short-lived, it made Lee the most visible martial artist in America. His renown in the martial arts community was also furthered by his friendship with Mito Uyehara, the founder of "Black Belt Magazine" who regularly featured Lee in the publication despite his then controversial criticism of traditional training methods like kata practice. Opening a school in Los Angeles' Chinatown, where he taught what he referred to as "jeet kune do," Lee produced several well-known martial arts students including Inosanto and Richard Bustillo, as well as training celebrities like James Coburn and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Unable to break through in the Hollywood film industry, which was reluctant to take a chance on an Asian actor, Lee eventually returned to Hong Kong to film the movie "The Big Boss," which shattered box office records in Asia. He passed away in Hong Kong on July 20, 1973 with the cause of his death still much debated. A month later, his final completed movie, "Enter the Dragon," would be released becoming the most successful martial arts film in history. Lee was survived by his wife, Linda, son, Brandon (now deceased) and his daughter, Shannon, who currently runs the Bruce Lee Foundation in her father's memory.

Every martial artist remembers a time when they witnessed a kick so masterful that it inspired them to train even more. Whether it was a famous martial artist, someone on TV, or at your local dojo, mastering difficult kicks that you saw someone else perform first have kept martial artists focused and goal-oriented for as long as martial arts have been around. We are listing the most difficult common kicks in martial arts, along with their challenges and techniques. Spinning Hook Kick: The spinning hook kick requires excellent timing, balance, and coordination. It involves spinning 360 degrees while executing a hook kick with the rear leg. The challenge lies in maintaining control during the spin and accurately striking the target with the kicking leg. Proper hip rotation and precise timing are essential to generate power and accuracy. Flying Side Kick: The flying side kick is a spectacular and challenging technique that requires exceptional athleticism and coordination. It involves jumping into the air and extending the leg sideways to deliver a powerful kick. The difficulty lies in maintaining balance and control while airborne and accurately striking the target with speed and force. Axe Kick: The axe kick is a high-risk, high-reward technique commonly used in taekwondo. It involves raising the leg high in the air and driving the heel downward to strike the target vertically. This kick requires extreme flexibility, balance, and precise timing to generate maximum impact and avoid injury. Crescent Kick: The crescent kick is a versatile and difficult technique seen in various martial arts styles. It involves a sweeping motion of the leg in an arcing trajectory to strike the target with the blade of the foot. The challenge lies in maintaining balance and control while executing the circular motion and accurately hitting the desired target. 540 Kick: The 540 kick is an advanced spinning kick that requires exceptional athleticism, agility, and timing. It involves a 540-degree spin in the air while executing a mid-air kick with the kicking leg. This kick demands a combination of precise footwork, body control, and aerial awareness to execute effectively. Jumping Roundhouse Kick: The jumping roundhouse kick combines power, speed, and agility. It involves jumping off one leg and executing a roundhouse kick in mid-air with the other leg. The difficulty lies in coordinating the jumping motion, maintaining balance, and generating power while airborne. Switch Kick: The switch kick, also known as the switch roundhouse kick, is a deceptive technique used to surprise opponents. It involves quickly switching the stance and kicking with the rear leg. The challenge lies in seamlessly transitioning from one stance to another while maintaining balance and speed, making it difficult for the opponent to anticipate the kick. Flying Scissor Kick: The flying scissor kick is a dynamic and acrobatic technique commonly used in martial arts demonstrations. It involves leaping into the air, extending both legs in a scissor-like motion, and striking the target with one leg. This kick requires tremendous coordination, timing, and flexibility. Spinning Crescent Kick: The spinning crescent kick combines the spinning and crescent kick techniques. It involves rotating the body while executing a crescent kick with the rear leg. The difficulty lies in maintaining balance during the spin and precisely striking the target with the blade of the foot. Jumping Back Kick: The jumping back kick is a powerful technique that requires explosive force and accuracy. It involves jumping backwards and striking the target with the heel of the kicking leg. This kick demands excellent timing, coordination, and control to generate sufficient power and hit the target effectively. Did we miss any? Mastering these can take years of practice, flexibility training, and technique. Remember, it's important (and usually more efficient) to learn these kicks under the guidance of a qualified instructor to ensure proper form, prevent injuries, and progress safely. Black Belt+ is the biggest martial arts digital platform in history. From its rich history spanning over 60 years, the platform includes thousands of remastered instructional videos, martial arts movies, documentaries, and, of course, digital issues and articles from the iconic Black Belt Magazine .

via Naver, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=73783277 By Charles Earley With Netflix releasing a continuous stream of original series every month, Korean dramas have firmly established themselves as essential "must-see" television. Known for their gripping storytelling, intense and sometimes extreme visuals, and unapologetic filming style, Korean films leave audiences with something to talk about long after the credits roll. Netflix has plans to invest a staggering $2.5 billion over the next four years on Korean TV series, films, and nonfiction shows. June 2023's release, Bloodhounds, is a prime example of the company's commitment to Korean content. Infused with an engaging storyline, exhilarating boxing action, and a perfect dose of humor, this Korean TV series promises an irresistible binge-watching experience, guaranteed to keep you at the edge of your seat. Overview “Bloodhound” refers to someone who relentlessly pursues those who borrow money from loan sharks. The Netflix series of the same name is a crime-action thriller about two down-and-out boxers, Gun-woo played by actor Woo Do-hwan, and Woo-jin played by Lee Sang-yi. The unlikely pair team up as bloodhounds to take down a ruthless loan shark who preys on the poor. Each episode is around eight hours long and seamlessly builds on each other, creating a cohesive and suspenseful plot. Dialogue between characters complemented the action scenes well, blending heartfelt emotion, humor, and banter. The characters’ words revealed their inner thoughts and motivations, adding depth and complexity to the story. Bloodhounds captivates its audience with a strong emphasis on character development, keeping viewers thoroughly engaged from start to finish." Plot Set against the backdrop of post-COVID South Korea, a struggling economy has left many people desperate for money, creating a breeding ground for loan sharks. Antagonist Kim Myeong-gil, a wealthy and powerful loan shark, exploits the desperation of business owners affected by the pandemic by offering loans with ridiculous repayment terms. His predatory business model is designed to trap people in debt and build his own wealth at the expense of the poor and vulnerable. The protagonists Kim Gun-woo and Hong Woo-jin, are boxers who served in the Marines. They forge an unexpected bond following an entertaining boxing match. When Gun-woo’s mother becomes a victim of Myeong-gil’s loan sharking scam. He and his friend Woo-jin, are drawn into the dangerous underworld of loansharking to take down Myeong-gil’s criminal organization. Gun-woo is a reserved, respectful, and disciplined boxer, while Woo-jin is more outgoing and flamboyant. Despite their contrasting personalities, they complement each other’s strengths and weaknesses well, forming a formidable bond as they fight together for justice against Kim Myeong-gil. Boxing action The fight scenes in Bloodhounds are truly exceptional. Its combat sequences are not only skillfully choreographed, but also impressively authentic, showcasing the actors’ rigorous boxing training. Where the series excels is conveying the electrifying thrill, raw intensity, and techniques that accompany the sport of boxing. What sets Bloodhounds apart is the emotional depth infused into its boxing narrative. The film utilizes the sport as a means for its two protagonists, Gun-woo and Woo-jin, to pursue their dreams and overcome their personal struggles. Gun-woo boxes to support his family and escape poverty, while Woo-jin boxes to prove his worth and find his place in the world. The boxing scenes do a masterful job of showcasing each character’s unique fighting style and inner determination. As a result, every punch thrown resonates with profound meaning and personal significance. Why you must watch Bloodhounds emerges as a multifaceted gem in the realm of Korean dramas, delivering an exhilarating blend of heart-pounding action, engaging storytelling, and poignant social commentary. With its dynamic duo of protagonists, Gun-woo and Woo-jin, the series not only captures the essence of an adrenaline-fueled thriller but also delves into the intricacies of human relationships, showcasing the power of genuine camaraderie amidst tumultuous circumstances. The show’s ability to seamlessly weave together intense fight sequences, nuanced character development, and a thought-provoking narrative is a testament to its prowess. Its dedication to exploring pertinent societal issues, such as the perils of loan sharks and economic disparities, further elevates its impact, making it more than just a gripping drama but also a mirror reflecting contemporary challenges. For both avid enthusiasts and newcomers to the world of Korean drama, Bloodhounds stands as a shining example of the genre’s potential, offering a rollercoaster ride of emotions, adrenaline, and profound introspection.

by Mark Hatmaker “But in all my experience, I have never been in any accident of any sort worth speaking about. I have seen but one vessel in distress in all my years at sea. I never saw a wreck and never had been wrecked nor was I ever in any predicament that threatened to end in disaster of any sort.” Those words come from Capt. E.J. Smith. He spoke them in 1907. Five years later, he was awarded the command of the RMS Titanic, and we all know what happened there. Walter Lord’s masterly volume A Night to Remember, written in 1955, breaks down minute by minute the catalog of small errors that led to large-scale catastrophe. Smith was no amateur, no weekend sailor, no bumbler. He was an experienced seaman, well-trained and well-equipped to handle a transatlantic voyage. Fate can and does rear its head to render diligent preparation minuscule, but in the case of the Titanic — and many other incidents large and small — it is less an encounter with something large (like an iceberg) than it is a failure to remain prepared for small deviations that have an adverse effect because people have been resting on their laurels. Complacency can set in after long trends of “no worries.” This is often referred to as the turkey problem. The fable goes like this: A turkey is living a pampered life on a farm. The farmer solicitously sees to its needs each and every day, with ample food and comfortable shelter. There are 364 days of bliss. To the turkey, all is coming up roses with a trend line leading to serene complacency. What the turkey doesn’t know is that the 365th day is Thanksgiving. As martial artists, we can be lulled to Capt. Smith/Thanksgiving turkey levels of complacency not just by, “Well, it hasn’t happened in all my experience, so I must be doing something right, and likely we’re good to go.” We also can be trained and diligent within our self-defense domain but perhaps become a bit state- and gear-dependent and wind up being woefully unprepared for hazards similar to what we trained for in the first place. Newton Rhodes, writing in a 1961 issue of Underwater magazine , explains how the perils of being immersed daily in a hazardous environment don’t prepare one for subtle shifts in what might be required. He does this by relating a tale of a scuba dive gone wrong. He and his son returned to the surface, only to find that their dive boat’s anchor had become unmoored. The boat was drifting out to sea‚ and they were far from it. The decision was made by the father: He would dump his tanks and swim for the ever-receding boat. “Without slowing his pace, he could read the dial on his waterproof watch. Muscles in his arms and shoulders, used rarely in diving, ached with fatigue.” — Swim for Life The rest of Rhodes’ account is just as harrowing. He honestly relates how he contemplated letting go and sinking to the bottom with fatigue. He describes how using dive fins in his daily underwater excursions led to less endurance when it came time for the long swimming haul on the surface. So here we have an experienced diver who swam daily, but a mere alteration in circumstances of the swim altered his efficiency and effectiveness. Add to it the notion that swim fins are an aid to good diving, and it becomes clear how much danger can accompany complacency. All martial artists should take note. The antidote to complacency is often assumed to be the drill. Recreations of possible scenarios … well, let’s leave it to Gen. George S. Patton to point out the shortfalls: “There are no bullets in maneuvers, and things sometimes get a little dull. But play the game; don’t lie in the shade. Try, above all things, to use your imagination. Think this is war. What would I do if that man were really shooting at me? That is the only chance, men, that you’re going to have to practice. The next time, maybe, there will be no umpires, and the bullets will be very real, both yours and the enemy’s.” — Address to the Officers and Men of the Second Armored Division, May 17, 1941 Drilling must be endured. But drilling does not ensure.What is required for real self-defense, and is still not enough‚ is emotional content, a constant querying of the realities within the drill itself and a vigilant varying of parameters. Anything less is an assumption that the turkey farmer is your lifelong friend or that “I swim great with fins — no need for anything else.” Now that you get my drift, here are a few survival and self-defense items to contemplate: • Do you text while driving? Do you remain attentive? Do you allow your “Well, I’ve never had an accident” streak of turkey luck to color your technique and vigilance? • In sparring, do you vary round duration and rest duration? • Do you vary glove weight? Bag weight? Mat surfaces? Weight classes? • Do you handicap your sparring? Impair physical and sensory attributes? Challenge balance? Impose cognitive load? • Are your smoke alarms up to snuff? Fire extinguishers charged and up to date? • How’s the air pressure in that spare tire? • All north and west exits from your city are blocked by civil unrest. What’s the alternative? • A solar flare knocks out satellites in your part of the world. What emergency numbers do you know by heart? Do you need a GPS to get where you’re going? • If you’re a striker, how often do you incorporate grappling into your training? • If you’re a grappler, how often do you strike? • Does your physical training regimen program for variance? Obviously, we could continue this battery, but these questions should be more than enough to rouse martial artists from Capt. Smith/Thanksgiving turkey/skilled diver complacency and inspire them to adopt a more prepared stance. Mark Hatmaker’s website is extremeselfprotection.com. This article originally appeared in the November 2022 issue of Black Belt Magazine.

From Jet Li to Donnie Yen, Kung Fu (or Wushu) is a martial art that has become mainstream through the action stars from the 1970s to present day. Despite its umbrella term, there are many distinct styles to this Chinese martial art. Kung Fu encompasses a vast array of distinct styles, each with its unique characteristics, techniques, and training methods. These styles have evolved over centuries and are often associated with specific regions, families, or philosophies. A solid martial artist should have a basic understanding of what sets Kung Fu and its distinct styles apart. Check out this quick guide to test your knowledge: While we'd need to write a whole book to cover all the styles in detail, let's explore some prominent ones: a) Shaolin Kung Fu: Known for performing extraordinary visual feats, Shaolin Kung Fu martial artists are once again gaining popularity through social media. Originating from the famous Shaolin Temple in Henan Province, Shaolin Kung Fu is renowned for its dynamic and powerful movements. It emphasizes physical conditioning, acrobatics, and a wide range of striking techniques. Shaolin Kung Fu includes various sub-styles such as Tiger, Crane, and Praying Mantis. b) Wing Chun: Most people in the western world became familiar with Wing Chun because of Bruce Lee. Known for its efficiency and economy of motion, Wing Chun is a close-quarters combat style that emphasizes speed, precision, and simultaneous attack and defense. Its techniques focus on redirecting and trapping an opponent's energy, making it suitable for self-defense in confined spaces. c) Tai Chi: Tai Chi is a graceful and flowing style that combines martial arts, meditation, and health cultivation. Known for its slow, deliberate movements, Tai Chi enhances relaxation, balance, and energy circulation. It is often practiced as a form of moving meditation and promotes overall well-being. d) Baguazhang: Baguazhang is characterized by circular footwork and continuous, fluid movements. It emphasizes evasive footwork, intricate palm techniques, and the cultivation of internal energy. Baguazhang practitioners utilize circular walking patterns, which enhance agility, coordination, and the ability to change directions quickly. e) Xingyiquan: Xingyiquan, also known as "Form-Intention Boxing," is an aggressive and straightforward style that emphasizes explosive power and direct linear strikes. It is based on imitating the movements of different animals and is known for its simplicity, speed, and practicality in combat. Northern and Southern Styles: Kung Fu styles are often categorized into Northern and Southern systems. Northern styles, like Northern Praying Mantis and Northern Shaolin, emphasize long-range techniques, acrobatics, and elaborate kicks. Southern styles, such as Wing Chun and Hung Gar, focus on close-range combat, powerful strikes, and strong stances. Each Kung Fu style has its strengths, philosophical underpinnings, and training methods. Exploring different styles allows practitioners to discover their preferred approach to martial arts and tailor their training accordingly. The diverse range of Kung Fu styles showcases the richness and versatility of this martial art. From the powerful strikes of Shaolin Kung Fu to the flowing movements of Tai Chi, each style offers unique insights and techniques. Aspiring Kung Fu practitioners can explore different styles, find the one that resonates with them, and delve into its techniques, philosophy, and training methods to deepen their understanding and expertise in the art of Kung Fu. If you want to learn Kung Fu and dozens of other martial art styles, check out Black Belt+ . Black Belt+ is the biggest martial arts digital platform in history. From its rich history spanning over 60 years, the platform includes thousands of remastered instructional videos, martial arts movies, documentaries, and, of course, digital issues and articles from the iconic Black Belt Magazine . The new app is available on iOS and Android mobile devices and tablets. Or download and subscribe directly from Black Belt at plus.blackbeltmag.com .

By Floyd Burk Photo by Robert W. Young Discipline is a weighty part of the martial arts experience. That’s because discipline figures into so many of the features and details the arts offer. While these can vary from one system to the next, there are key components that affect every training hall. Early in my martial arts career, I looked at discipline as mostly a physical thing. For example, it might mean not getting to test for your next belt or doing push-ups in class. In other words, if you weren’t disciplined in doing what you were supposed to do, you got disciplined —corrective discipline! Over the years, I learned that discipline is much more than that. In this column, I will focus on a mix of supportive and preventative discipline and explain how they can be a godsend for helping your students and your business succeed. Discipline goes hand in hand with respect in our dojo. This is because respect promotes the ideal learning and teaching environment, which encourages people to choose to make discipline a pillar of their training. Also, discipline and respect are positive attitudinal characteristics for all people and form the bedrock of most training programs. At our dojo, we define respect as “treating others with value, regard and worthiness.” We also use the terms “self respect” and “respect for self and others.” Therefore, the definition can be expanded to “treating others — and yourself — with value, regard and worthiness.” We avoid using fear and intimidation to gain respect. Respect ought to be a healthy part of your school, too. Most dojo have a respect building system that’s tied into the class formalities. It all starts with you, the senior instructor. Respect should begin with you showing it to your students. Say to yourself, “I respect (the student’s) desire to learn.” Then show your respect to that student and all the others. Show them that you value them as important people, and they will believe that you respect them. Tell them about respect and let them know that they should respect you as their instructor and because of your rank. Remind them, too, that they should value the lessons you teach as worthy and important parts of their life. Now, let’s discuss respect in formalities. At the beginning of most dojo sessions, the class lines up with the instructor and students facing each other. Then both parties bow. Your bow to them demonstrates that you respect their desire to learn, and their bow to you indicates their respect for your standing as their instructor. At the end of class, the same thing occurs. Many dojo include an add-on. Ours does, and it goes like this: At the end of class, we line up and bow to one another. The instructor tells the students, “Good class‚” and the students proceed to thank the instructor one by one. This daily practice works wonders when it comes to building mutual respect. The way to reach one’s goals and accomplish anything worthwhile is through discipline. In our dojo, we prefer to use the term “self-discipline” when discussing the concept. Our definition of self-discipline is “overcoming the opponent within yourself who has the potential to lead you down the path of laziness and irresponsibility.” When students pay attention in class and do the techniques to the best of their ability, they’re demonstrating self-discipline — and thus defeating the “opponent within.” Unfortunately, being self-disciplined doesn’t come naturally for everyone. For many, it’s something that must be learned. The following is a method I use to help students realize how important self discipline is. I have the students gather on the mat for a chat, after which I explain what the concept means. Then I have one of them stand and assume a front stance. I tell that student to do a punch/kick combo. Next, I tell the student to do the same sequence while looking out the window and thinking about going next door for a donut. The second punch/kick combo is worse every single time. This helps every student clearly see that self-discipline leads to superior performance because it’s obvious that letting the mind wander takes a toll on technique. Because such “spacing out” comes naturally for many people, it’s crucial for you, as an instructor, to keep preaching about self-discipline. You must drive home the fact that they need to improve their skills to earn their next promotion and that those skills give them the ability to defend themselves. The underlying message is that they must try to be self-disciplined at all times when training. In a nutshell, being self-disciplined is how students become skillful at executing techniques. This leads to confidence. Confidence leads to self-esteem. Confident martial artists with self-esteem will not let someone take their lunch money. They will stand up to bullies. Confident martial artists with self esteem are on the path to success. They will achieve many goals in the dojo and in life. They will be part of your opus, and that will bring joy to your life’s work. Floyd Burk is a San Diego–based 10th-degree black belt with 50 years of experience in the arts.

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After Shaolin monks saved the Ching dynasty (aka the Manchus) in 1685 from Russian invasion, who’d have thought that by refusing payment for their bravery, the Shaolin monks paid for it with their lives. Yet from the temple burnings and monk slaughtering, another important group of martial monks arose, The Ten Tigers of Shaolin. After Tsai De-zhong and Hu De-di, two of the Five Ancestors, survived the Song Shan monastery blaze, they established a new temple at Jiu Lian Shan, where it fell on the back of monk Zhi Shan to keep the Shaolin martial arts alive. He chose his students carefully and wisely, knowing they would excel in martial arts and be responsible for keeping the arts alive into the next generation. Eight of Zhi Shan's most famous students, plus two other survivors of the Jiu Lian Shan Temple burning, collectively became known as the Ten Tigers of Shaolin. One account of the Ten Tigers of Shaolin includes female Fong Wing Chun as a Ten Tiger. Though I found no in-depth corroboration of this in the literature, because of her importance to martial arts history, part of the Shaolin plight and cinema, I’ll include her in a separate blog discussion. Perhaps those who believe one of the Ten Tigers perished at Jiu Lian Shan, maybe Wing Chun was merely a historic replacement. HONG XI-GUAN Born in Hua Xian, in Canton province, Hong had royal lineage through Prince Liang (aka Zhu Wen-zhong), 15th son of Ming Emperor Chong Zhen. After the Manchus overthrew the Ming in 1644, to avoid Ching persecution Zhu changed his name to Hong in tribute to the Ching Emperor Hong Wu. It was during the Ching reign of Emperor Kang Xi when Shaolin joined Chan Kan-nam's Heaven and Earth Association to form secret societies to rebel against the Chings and restore the Ming. Hong worked as a tea merchant until he joined Jiu Lian Shan as a non-monk disciple and quickly became Abbot Zhi Zhan's top student. Although the Chinese character for Hong is the same character used in Hong Men , Xi-guan was not a founding father of the society. There are many conflicting stories that surround the lives of Hong and his second wife Fong Wing Chun, including the development of the styles of martial arts they are known for. According to one story, after Hong escaped Jiu Lian Shan in Fujian province, he escaped Ching persecution by hiding in the Red Junks, Cantonese opera troupes in Canton that would travel to villages in the province on vessels known as Red Junks and Phoenix Junks. Shaolin refugees often sought shelter with these actors and though actors were considered low class in Ching society, the refugees taught them martial arts. During the Taiping Rebellion, actor Li Wen-mao with 20 fellow actors inflected serious damage to the Ching troops at the siege of Canton. After the rebellion failed, Ching officials banned the performance of Cantonese opera. Director Liu Chia-liang's Executioners from Shaolin (1977) is one of few movies that portray the historical links between Shaolin masters and the Red Junks. Bloody Avengers (1976) and Boxer from Shantung (1972) chronicles many events surrounding the characters involved during the Taiping Rebellion. Hong's constant flight from Ching authorities brought him back to Hua Xian where he married Liu Ying-chun who bore him one son, Hong Wen-ting. When Liu died, he married Fong Wing Chun. It is believed that Wing Chun was a white crane stylist and when she married Hong, they combined his tiger fist to produce Hong's patented tiger-crane style. At the time, martial arts training was banned by the government so after the Jiu Lian Shan burning, Hong began secretly teaching martial arts at a temple in Canton. Once the ban was lifted, he set up a school in Fa Cheng and to hide his art's connection to the Shaolin from the government he named his style Hong Chia chuen ( Hung Gar in Cantonese), Chia means family, Hong is the family name. Chang Cheh's Men from the Monastery (1974) featured Chen Kuan-tai as Hong escaping the burning Temple and vowing undying revenge. Three years later, director Liu Chia-liang intelligently cast Chen again as Hong in Executioners from Shaolin (1977), giving the audience a face that they could associate with the hero. Executioners begins where Men from the Monastery ends, with the Shaolin Temple destroyed and Hong escaping. Hong is seen hiding in the Red Junks where he eventually meets and marries street entertainer, Wing Chun (portrayed by Lily Li) who bears him a son, Wen Ting (played by Yung Wang-yu) due to their rollicking S&M (Striking & Marvelous) fight scene in the bedroom before consummating the marriage. However, it was Hong's first wife Liu that gave birth to Wen Ting. We also get to see Hong meet his wife in Hong Xi Guan and the Third Lady of Yong Chuin (1958). Executioners uses the film to describe the origin of Hong Chia kung-fu as demonstrated by Hong's ten-year training regimen in preparation for seeking revenge against Monk Bai Mei. However, in the film, Hong ignores Wing Chun's plea to teach him white crane techniques and combine it with his tiger style, so Bai Mei kills him. In real life, it is thought that during a fight with a young girl using the Phoenix Eye Fist, Hong died in 1821 at age 93. After Hong dies in Executioners , Wing Chun teaches her son Wen Ting white crane, and he quickly combines the arts of his mother and father to create the tiger-crane style associated with Hong Xi-guan. Consequently, Wen Ting can now kill Bai Mei. In Clan of the White Lotus (1980), the unofficial sequel to Executioners , Wing Chun (Lily Li) is killed at the film's beginning by Bai Mei, and Hong's son Wen Ting (now played by Gordon Liu) escapes with his wife and combines his father's tiger-crane style with his wife's embroidery style to kill a look-alike relative of Bai Mei and his Manchu henchmen. How did Bai Mei really die? One rendition tells that after the Jiu Lian Temple burning, the Five Elders were aware of Bai Mei's traitorous acts and made their way to the Er Mei mountains in Sichuan province, where upon arrival, to avoid the Manchus, they became Taoists in appearance and adopted many of the Taoist philosophies. Meanwhile, the four elders were plotting their revenge against Bai Mei. Although during the ensuing fights Bai Mei killed Miao Xian and Zhi Shan, Bai Mei lost to Feng Dao-de. Feng Dao-de and Wu Mei went their separate ways. Feng taught his martial arts skills to Doo Tin Tin, who was the emperor's personal physician. What does this story tell us? If it is true, perhaps Feng killed Bai Mei to shut him up or because he felt guilty for what happened. Or maybe Feng was carefully stalking Bai Mei's movements, seeing who he was meeting, finding out if there were any other traitors, then ultimately waiting for the right time to take revenge. And who knows, if Bai Mei avoided being killed by Shaolin avengers, maybe the doctor might make a mistake while treating an ill and/or aging Bai Mei or even the emperor. Of particular significance in the cinematic stories of Hong Xi-guan is Corey Yuen's New Legend of Shaolin (1994), which features Jet Li as Hong. Although an expert of many martial arts styles, Hong was a specialist of the Shaolin Pole Technique. New Legend is the only film that brilliantly portrays these skills. The film opens as Hong returns home to find his first wife and family wiped out by the Manchus. The only survivor is his son Hong Wen-ting. The thematic parallels with the Japanese samurai Lone Wolf and Cub film series are evident as baby Wen must decide his path in life by choosing either a toy (Hong would then send him to his mother) or a sword by which he would accompany Hong on his mission of vengeance against the Ching. Of further significance here, is the infusion for the first time in film of the character Ma Ling-er, whom Hong burns to a crisp, yet survives and returns as a deformed martial arts super villain. Ma being burned is Yuen's nod to the real Ma Ling-er who was responsible for the burning of the Song Shan Temple. On a coincidental note, some stories imply that Ma Ling-er and Bai Mei may have been the same person. It seems that when both monks made the choice to betray Shaolin, they were both being punished for breaking some kind of a meaningful lamp. Part of New Legend is also about how Hong must save five children and deliver them to Chan Kan-nam (head of the Heaven and Earth Association) at the Red Flower Pavilion because they have a secret treasure map tattooed on their backs. The kids were named Tsai De-zhong, Fang Da-hong, Ma Chao-xing, Hu De-di and Li Shi-kai, the Five Ancestors of Shaolin. In Chang's Shaolin Temple and Five Shaolin Masters , actor Wang Lung-wei plays the traitorous fighter Ma Fu-yi, and in both films is killed. In New Legend , Corey Yuen re-casts Wang twenty years later as the traitorous Ma Fu-yi.