Malay Art Of Defense

Paul Vunak How to Win a Fight on Your Back Rapid Assault Tactics

2010-11-12T13:49:00.000-08:00

These Moves WORK in Real Life!

After all, that's what they were designed for. They are most certainly NOT for "sport". (If they were, the first fight would have also been the last!)

You see, humans don't fight like this for sport. But as you'll see when you watch How To Win a FIght on Your BACK, this Filipino martial art will turn you into "a human pit bull" capable of overcoming ANY opponent you face on the street... but especially when you find yourself up against someone who's just a better fighter than you are!

This art was developed specifically for the worst situations you ever find yourself in. It gives you the INSTANT advantage you need no matter how big, how strong, or how well-trained your attacker is!

This is your only chance at survival against a ground fighting master or escaping from the grasp of a 300 lbs Giant! What you're going to learn from Paul Vunak on How To Win a Fight on Your Back will give YOU the skills necessary to Win the fight and get home to your family even if you don't have any other fighting skills to speak of !

Price:

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Pukulan Pentjak Silat - The Devastating Fighting Art of Bukti Negara-Serak DVD

2010-11-11T21:35:00.000-08:00

More of the unique Red Boat Wing Chun trapping hands methods combined with Kali and JKD skills.

On the Trapping Series:

Experts agree that Comtech's Limb Immobilization training is one of the best around. It's both defense and development in on. If you are looking to improve your empty handed fighting abilities then by all means check these three tapes out today!

Fighting applications, partner drills, equipment drills and more.These limb immobilization techniques are things I have learned while cross training in Kali, Silat, Wing Chun and Kuntao. Even western boxing is thrown in there too. You see, fighting isn't all that different for folks. Basically it's the same for everyone. So, I have taken the common traits from all of these various arts and compiled them into one interrelated amalgam. Why not ? It's all the same in the dark ya know. This universal system is about learning, defense and confidence. To study these tapes you'll need a partner or at least a Mook Jong (wooden training dummy). This method is also designed to inter-relate to and support your Knife Skills also! Multi-phase training works a lot like subliminal learning. "It just happens". Good stuff !

Price: $59.95

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Pencak Silat Ratu Adil 2 [VHS]

2010-11-11T08:36:00.000-08:00

For 12 oz. (and up) cans or bottles
White outer surface adhered to inner Neoprene rubber insulator
Foldable with sewn seams and slotted bottom
Size: 7 3/4" Diameter x 4 5/16" high x 4" wide x 1/8"
Can/bottle NOT included

Price: $39.95

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Secrets of Harimau: The Explosive Art of Pencak Silat Harimau Minangkabau [VHS]

2010-11-10T17:55:00.000-08:00

Pukulan pentjak silat is one of the most brutally effective fighting methods known to man. This video reveals the secrets of silat's lightning-fast upper-body movements and lower-body destructions and shows you how to integrate them into an unstoppable fighting combination.

Price: $54.95

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Mudras & Hand Symbolism: Hand Mysteries? Part 3

2010-11-10T01:59:00.000-08:00

[Note: This paper contains images which may be seen as originally published at our website]

In ceremonial magick of the Western Tradition, the hands and fingers are used for various purposes among which is to trace symbols, sigils, and signs in a consecrated space or object. They are also utilized to banish, invoke and direct forces to certain targets. In contrast to the adepts of ceremonial magic, stage magicians apply the hands to entertain audiences with their many illusory tricks. They call this, "prestidigitation," or "sleight of hand." In prestidigitation, the hands are used in various ways to deceive and mislead the eyes, and also in guiding the mental focus of the audience. The saying that "the hands are quicker than the eye," is a well-known cliché used by stage magicians.

While still on the topic of entertainment, we have to consider the applause. The clapping of hands in modern usage is an expression of delight, agreement, an accompaniment to music, or appreciation for someone's stage performance. Metaphysically, it is said that ovation dispels the presence of angelic beings. These creatures of light dislike the vibrations produced by the applause. From the occult point of view, therefore, clapping is regarded as a negative practice.

In dance, gestures of the hands are essential in conveying or expressing symbolic messages and metaphorical meanings. They possess a rich vocabulary and tell non-verbal stories that evoke our primordial emotions as well as divine sensations. This can easily be seen and experienced in the hula-dance of the Polynesians. These dances and hand movements narrate various myths of the land that transports us to another world. In Hindu classical texts regarding dance, hundreds of hand gestures are mentioned, together with descriptions of the thirteen positions of the head, thirty-six of the eyes, and nine of the neck. In the Hindu dances based on the Carnatic music composition, the following mudras are used among many others: Raaga mudra, Tata mudra, Aachaarya mudra, Naayaka mudra, Vamsa mudra, Biruda mudra, Lakshana Grantha mudra, Prabandha mudra, Sthala mudra, etc.

Although the many poses of the hands in traditional dance may portray symbolical meanings, they are also functional in the sense that they modify the morphogenic or auric field of the human organism, and likewise meant to regulate the energy flow within the etheric body.

There are numerous forms of dance or dancing style prompted by the various levels of the psyche. Basically, we can classify three types of dance originating from the subconsciousness, consciousness and the superconsciousness. The instinctive or primitive dance originating from the subconsciousness is well known and is displayed by both man and beast. Most of these movements and their awkward gestures usually are mating courtship dances and the release of pent-up energies. Cultural dances evolved from these unrefined movements. They are a projection of what the psyche understands of beauty, grace, form, rhythm, etc. The third category may be called mystical dances. They originate from higher levels of consciousness beyond the reach of the conscious mind, but whose energies may be channeled through the physical body producing divine movements. Some forms of dancing are the amalgamation of all three classifications. The traditional dancing styles of Eastern countries such as India, Thailand, and Indonesia are typical of these. In these dances mudras are often formed to alter the consciousness of the dancer and indirectly affect the consciousness of the spectators. About 16 years ago the writer personally witnessed one of the traditional Javanese dances performed by a very talented young man. The dance was called "Kesadaran," or "Consciousness." We were spellbound from start to finish.

Music often make us move and sway our hands, feet, and body unconsciously. Why does it do this? For the simply reason that musical energies have the power to possess our beings and cause an altered state of awareness making us lose a certain degree of control over our physical motor system. All beings are susceptible to the influence of music. Animals and plants are especially vulnerable. In Greek myth we often hear tales of Pan, the personification of Nature, dancing to the mystical tunes of his pan-pipes, and all those who heard him play would also join in the fun, the mirth, and the merry-making. Similarly, when the Greek sage Orpheus played on his lyre, all became entranced, even the rocks listened attentively.

In the Hindu tales of the gods, as found in the Bhagavata-Purana and the Gita-Govinda, Krishna is said to have enchanted the gopis, or shepherdesses of Vrindavana with his lila dance and magical flute-playing. Each gopi was so mesmerized and distracted by Krishna that they would forget everything else around them. They would become so one-pointed that they would believe that they were the only one present before their Lord. Evidently, music has the power to cause ecstatic feelings.

The god Shiva is often portrayed in iconography in a dancing pose as Nataraja, or "Lord of Dance." Representing the Consciousness aspect of Nature, why does Shiva engage in a Cosmic dance? It is because Shakti or divine energy, flows through his being and causes spasms and convulsions at first, and then rhythmic movements in attunement with the beat of the Cosmos. Amidst spiritual flames, Shiva dances rapturously, burning and transmuting all of the old outworn forms of life hindering cosmic progress.

In a microcosmic scale, a Shiva-dance likewise occurs to a practitioner of mudras. Spontaneous dancing may transpire as a result of the awakening of the life-force in the lowest psychospiritual center of the etheric body. While conducting the mudras the practitioner's whole being would often move involuntarily. The physical body might sway forward and backward, left and right or rotate on its axis. His or her hands would move on their own accord in circles, in arches, in figure-eights, in a chopping upward-downward movement, or oscillate in a left-right or forward-backward direction; sometimes the hands are mysteriously placed at various layers of the aura, or even at certain focus points--at the chakras or energy centers of the body. While Shakti is active, she may also induce the practitioner to assume unlearnt mudras. The energies invoked through mudras have an intelligence all of their own and they do their work through movements. They know what to do to balance, purify, transform, or integrate celestial energies into the microcosmic system.

In the martial-arts field, hands are used as weapons of defense or destruction. The "Tiger's Claw," the "Iron Fist," "the Drunken-style Fist," etc, all indicate the manifold lethal forms that the hands may assume to strike an opponent or to ward off blows. In contrast to this, the finer arts make use of the hands constructively and creatively to produce wondrous objects of art, and to compose and produce heavenly music. Like the Cosmic dance of Shiva, the movements of Tai Chi, Pencak Silat, and other forms of self-defense have part of their origin in an awakened source of energy moving through the limbs producing involuntary movements. These movements were later noted down and turned into the various steps of martial-art discipline and training.

Some systems of metaphysical development teach us to move the body in a certain way. Though this has an effect in stimulating energies in the body it is not quite as effective in producing the desired results as when compared to the assuming of mudras that cause the energies to produce natural movements all of their own accord.

When we clasp our hands by interlacing our fingers, the thumb at the uppermost, whether right or left indicates which hemisphere of our brain predominates. Psychology tells us that if the right thumb is uppermost it is logic or reason that is predominant within us, or if the left thumb, intuition.

The hands play an important role in empowering the mind to function optimally. Since energy radiates from the palms and fingertips, they are often unconsciously utilized as stimulators re-connecting lost or poor links between synapses of brain neurons. In the book Body Magic, an important work on esoteric man, Benjamin Walker describes how the operations of the hands often attempt to improve the mental processes by certain placements:

"When the fingertips of the two hands are placed together, a circuit is set up with the brain that is believed to assist thought. People in deep thought will often talk with their fingertips pressed together, as if unconsciously aware of the need to establish such a current to assist their concentration. If a man wishes to recall something he has forgotten, his hand will instinctively touch his forehead to contact with his fingers the source of his thinking."

From what has been written thus far, it is evident that hands play a prominent role in everyday life. This can also be seen in the way we have invented all sorts of idioms regarding them. For instance, "lend me a hand," "hands-off," "hand-in-hand," "old-hand," "hands-on," etc.

The Application of Hands in the Spiritual Path

In the Spiritual Path hands are used for the following purposes:

As an instrument of healing.

As an instrument of blessing and consecration.

As an instrument of general service.

As an instrument of teaching.

As an instrument of purification, invocation, prayer, and communion.

**********

As an instrument of healing

Chakras, or energy-centers are to be found all over the body. There is a chakra to be found in each palm of the hand. There is likewise a minor chakra at every fingertip. The size, activity, and power of these chakras are dependent upon various factors. One of these is the purity of the subtle channels terminating at those chakra points. These subtle channels or etheric nadis convey the life-force all over the body and may be projected outside of the body through the hand chakras. Healers of various metaphysical traditions make use of the hands to convey healing energy or to break up toxic crystals imbedded in the tissues. Since ancient times Chinese doctors have been diagnosing a person's state of vitality through sensing the strength of the energy radiating from the hands, from the phalanges of the fingers, and the pulse at the wrist. Among the many systems of alternative therapeutics that make use of the hands are acupressure, Shiatsu, Chakra healing, Reiki, Rosicrucian Contact healing, Body Electronics, various forms of massage work, etc. Like Jesus the Christ, every Initiate on the Spiritual Path is essentially a healer, though he may not blatantly proclaim or advertise himself to be one. When circumstances and necessity calls for it he would gladly offer his services to the suffering one, always stressing, however, that it is not he that works, but the "Father " within him.

As an instrument of blessing and consecration

Metaphysics teaches and proves through various experiments which may be personally verified by skeptics that energy radiates from the hands. This energy may be used to magnetize objects, places, spaces or people for various purposes. The religious term for magnetization is consecration. Blessing is a form of consecration. It refers to the magnetization of a human being rather than an object with a spiritual force. Generally, in the act of consecration or blessing we seek to raise the vibrations or frequency of a person or an object, or to empower it with certain energies that would turn it into a psycho-spiritual generator that would influence its immediate surroundings in a certain way. Thought-forms imbued with mental suggestions and emotional power are often attached to these blessings. Curses operate much in the same way as blessings, they however, bring about negative effects. The curse on Tutankhamen's tomb is a classic example of this.

Where people are concern in the act of blessing, the metaphysical practitioner would also seek to clear obstructive or congested energies preventing the person from being aware of or communing with his or her Higher Self. Once this purification is achieved the person would possess a clearer line of communication with his hidden god or genius and acquire a stronger sense of protection, faith, and a constant guidance from the Most High.

In the act of blessing or consecration, the hands work in harmony with the power of the spoken word to modify the magnetic-field structure of people and objects.

As an instrument of general service

The hands are tools of service and humanitarian aid. Spiritually and socially, it is applied in extending a helping hand to our fellow beings, to those in need of bare necessities, comfort and solace. In spiritual teachings, karma yoga is often associated with the hands in active giving without any thought of remuneration or recognition. This is a vital principle. The desire to serve humanity must come from the heart without any thought of self or ego. Selflessness, self-sacrifice, and active service are important virtues that the spiritual aspirant has to embody and express at every breathing moment. When self-comfort, self-importance, and self-aggrandizement are the sole motives of help to others then the hands are misapplied and any act carried-out is unmeritorious. Spiritual disciples should not attract attention to the fact that they are serving. The best service is done quietly in the shadows without any fanfare or advertisements. The Master Jesus explained it concisely in this manner: "Do not let the left hand know what the right hand is doing." Occultly, the left hand is used for receiving energies, while the right hand is employed for giving them.

As an instrument of teaching

Spiritual Gurus teach in various ways. They give teachings orally, in writing, telepathically, through example, symbols, drama, and by the use of gestures. The hands can convey lots of information when knowledgeably used. Symbolic movements of the hands may portray the workings of Cosmic laws and spiritual principles. It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words. Sometimes the hands may tell what the mouth cannot. A loving touch tells something that words are often unequipped to. In Zen Buddhism, the Guru often gives shock treatments to his students with the use of the hands. A rap on the head or a slap on the face at the appropriate moment and psychological condition after intense meditation is supposed to cause a student to suddenly apperceive the natural state of his mind and thereby become enlighten.

As an instrument of purification, invocation, prayer and communion

Perhaps the most common use of hands in religious and in metaphysical spiritual work is its application in prayer. Basically, this does not require any specialized knowledge. The hands are instinctively used when appealing to God, to higher intelligences for intercession or when used simply as gestures of adoration or reverence, just as we instinctively scratch our foreheads or pull our beards when we seek to arouse our mental powers. The hands may be clasped, outstretched or assumed in any other way that the heart dictates while in silent prayer. Esoteric teachings, however, teaches various mudras, or hand gestures that have specific purposes for the invocation of cosmic forces and spiritual beings. The liturgical formula "The Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Amen" in the Christian Tradition accompanied with the touching of the appropriate points of the head and body at the conclusion of a prayer conveys a certain power to the etheric body when correctly done. However, the perfunctory manner in which it is performed provides very little of worth. In Hinduism, such placing of the hands upon certain parts of the body with magical intent is called Nyasa.

To commune with the divinity within us we may apply various mudras that facilitates mystical communion. Mudras establishes a psychic condition in the mind and body that temporary elevates our consciousness, and disperses the etheric webs that protects the psyche from being prematurely bombarded by psychic/celestial energies. It aligns and unites our objective consciousness with the superconscious mind. An altered state of consciousness is easily achieved through the use of the hands in the performing of mudras. Through mudras our communion with the so-called supernatural is controlled. We open and close the portals to higher worlds through the application of our will.

In ceremonial magick the hands are extensively used to direct and build up forces in one's sacred place of worship and practice. Symbols are drawn on the ground or in the air with the power radiating from the hands and chakras to invoke and evoke cosmic metaphysical forces. The avatar Sai Baba is often seen making gestures in the air. He does this for the purpose of dispersing and cleansing the ambient surroundings and atmosphere from negative energies. The metaphysical practitioner or ceremonial magician makes use of the hands in manifesting certain things and conditions.

To conclude this article we would like to praise the hands for what they offer us--the opportunity to grow and serve. The fingers and thumbs of the hands should not quarrel among themselves as to who is the greatest, as related in some ancient fables, for they all have their place in supporting the need in us to further pursue our dreams, in fulfilling our earthly tasks and cosmic mission. The harmonious conjoined functioning of the fingers and thumbs of the hands is a metaphor for the right relationship and cooperation between the sons of men to manifest the Will of God, just as the fingers and hands manifests the will of its possessor. The noblest use of our hands is to extend it in friendship, in kindness and in unconditional love.

Luxamore
Metaphysical teacher, counseler, healer and merchant of occult/magickal items of Indonesia.
http://www.indotalisman.com/
http://www.bezoarmustikapearls.com/

Greatest Lesson I Ever Learned in Street Fighting Came From a Bouncer

2010-11-09T15:27:00.000-08:00

A few years ago, I attended a one day seminar featuring one of the most well-known Silat sifus in the West. I had traveled to New York City for the seminar and a few competitions and went to the training seminar hoping to learn new things from the master teacher.

The attendees of the seminar were from all walks of martial arts life. Some were obviously businessmen or white collar types, others were long-time martial arts trainers like myself, and at least two were professional fighters. One person in particular caught my eye, however.

He was a large man, but not overly muscular, just naturally titanic. His hair was cut short and his face was like looking at a war zone. He had scars on his cheek and brow, his nose had obviously been broken more than once, and he was missing at least two teeth. He spoke with a thick Brooklyn accent. His name was Greg.

By his manner and the way he moved when shown to the mat for demonstration, it was obvious that he was not a trained martial artist. He took no fighting stance, his attacks (both kicks and punches) were unorthodox and definitely had not been taught to him by any sifu. Yet of all of us, he was the only one who the Silat master was not able to knock to the ground.

After the day was over, as we walked to the parking lot, I overheard him say to someone on his cell phone "That was a [expletive] waste of money and time. Guy didn't know [expletive]."

I, on the other hand, had thought I had learned a great deal from the day's workout and training. I thought the guy was being cocky and belligerent, but wondered about his never falling down that day and his strange way of reacting nearly instinctively to the attacks made upon him, no matter how unusual or different they had been. So I approached him.

"Excuse me, Greg is it?" He turned and looked at me suspiciously. I convinced him to sit in a pub with me for a drink to talk about self-defense. He told me to follow him and we drove to "his place." This turned out to be a bar in Brooklyn that he was partial owner of. It had been open for quite a while, but he took me to his office after grabbing some beer on the way through and saying hello to several regulars.

It turns out that Greg started out at the bar as a bouncer (now usually called "security") and had eventually worked his way into ownership. His face, as he pointed out, was his textbook and test scores from his schooling as a bouncer and self-defense expert. In other words, he learned everything the hard way.

For the next few hours and then the day after that in the gymnasium where he'd invited me to come work out with him, I learned more about self-defense than my twenty years (up to that point) of martial arts training had ever given me. This was the beginning of my awakening to the "law of the street."

From Greg that day, I learned that only another martial artist will attack you with what most martial arts instructors teach you to "counter." Everyone else attacks with whatever they've got, which was probably nothing they learned in any dojo or gym.

I learned the importance of awareness, of reaction, of understanding how a person moves when they're carrying a hidden weapon, and more. In short, I was introduced to the world of real, bare knuckles street fighting and self-defense.

Greg was a man who had never completed the eighth grade, had never been to university, and had never received any formal instruction in a studio or dojo. His only formal training had been Westenn Boxing classes for one year at a local gym. Everything Greg knows about fighting came from growing up on the streets, lying about his age to get a job as a bouncer, and then spending most of his nights getting attacked, beat up, etc. and most of his days patching his wounds and running, jumping rope, and lifting weights.

I formed a good friendship with Greg and every time I visit New York City, I pop in on him for a couple of pints and maybe an afternoon in the gym. In my more than 29 years of martial arts training and instruction, Greg is one of the most well-educated street fighters I've talked to.

He taught me the most important lesson I've learned in self-defense: martial arts and self-defense aren't the same thing. Once I learned that, a whole new avenue of training opened to me.

http://www.beststreetfighting.com

Mixed Martial Arts For Street Self Defense

2010-11-08T21:46:00.000-08:00

The strengths of MMA for real combat are many. First of all MMA, includes both striking and grappling, two of the most important elements of a real fight. Most combat sports focus on only one or the other and are quite limited in what types of attacks are allowed. For example, wrestling allows takedowns and pins, but no submissions. Boxing allows legal punches, but prohibits kicks, knees or elbows. Judo only allows throws. Muay Thai allows grappling and striking from the standing position, but not on the ground. MMA, on the other hand, allows all of these important elements of combat, making it a much more well-rounded discipline. Both striking and grappling take place while standing and on the ground. Submissions, holds, and chokes are also allowed while standing and on the ground. All types of throws and takedowns are allowed. However, each venue in MMA is slightly different, and certain strikes and submissions are disallowed depending on the show.

Before the first Ultimate Fighting Championship and for years afterward, there was a big debate among martial artists asking "what's more effective: grappling or striking?" This is a ridiculous question. This is the equivalent of asking, "Is it better to pass the ball or run the ball?" in American Football. Or of the military, "What's better, the Air Force or the Navy?" The answer is that it depends on the situation and you obviously need both. The modern MMA fighter obviously has a good handle on both striking and grappling, and this debate has finally begun to fade away.

Today, MMA is the fastest growing sport out there. It seems that everyone is getting involved with the sport either actively or as a spectator. In today's environment, anyone who's serious about learning to defend oneself must learn the fundamentals of MMA precisely because everyone else is doing it. In combat, it's the unfamiliar that is the most dangerous. For this reason, it's essential to educate oneself on MMA. Everyone who's serious about learning to fight should learn both striking and grappling and have MMA experience as a base to work from.

With that said, we need to keep in mind that a street fight is very different from a cage fight. First of all, street fights are rarely one-on-one. Many fights start as a one-on-one conflict but quickly become a multiple opponent situation. Many MMA fighters have the grappling mindset and are inclined to take their opponent to the ground, where they prefer to fight. This will immediately put you in eminent danger in a multiple-opponent fight. Every grappling position on the ground will put you in jeopardy of being kicked or kneed in the head if you're fighting more than one opponent. However, should you be taken down in a multiple opponent fight, you need to know ground fighting in order to escape the situation. A common slogan among Jiu Jitsu practitioners is that "most fights end up on the ground". While this may be true, most fights involve a weapon and multiple opponents.

In addition, street fights rarely take place on a soft floor. This changes everything for the grappler. Often times, the ground is rough with rocks, gravel, or even broken glass. Asphalt or concrete surfaces are far from ideal for grappling. Even the superior grappling positions with the possible exception of "knee on the stomach" hurt when rolling around on the ground. Even many of the takedowns in MMA, such as double and single leg tackles, involve dropping a knee to the ground, which can shatter a kneecap.

A related point is the wearing of shoes in the street. It's important to feel comfortable fighting with and without shoes on. Even many strikers, like Muay Thai fighters for example, have never trained with shoes on. Another thing to keep in mind is that shoes can also be used effectively as weapons to make kicks more effective. More types of kicks become effective when a shoe or a boot is worn.

Let's assume that a street fight breaks out on a soft floor and that it's a one-on-one fight. Remember this is not a gentlemen's grappling game. The individual who's willing to take the fight to the next level, and knows how to, will often win. Finger locks and breaks, for example, can completely change the game. In the old Catch Wrestling days, many fights were won with broken fingers and/or missing eyes. A grappler who knows how to use a barrage of bites, pressure point strikes, elbow digs, fish hooks, hair pulls, eye gouges, groin strikes and head butts on the ground (along with the more conventional strikes and submissions) is a whole other animal.

These elements come into play from the standing position as well and are a big part of the training in Jeet Kune Do and Filipino Kali Silat. Bruce Lee was said to have been incredibly effective with a finger jab to the eyes from any angle. Anyone who watches MMA knows how effective even an accidental eye gouge can be. For example, Mirko CroCop defeated Mustapha Al-Turk with an eye gouge in UFC 99. B.J. Pen and Chuck Liddell have unintentionally or intentionally used the eye gouge to help win UFC bouts as well.

The other obvious element of street fighting and self-defense that's missing in MMA is weapons training. Real fights involve weapons. If push comes to shove and it's time to defend loved ones, it's natural that most will pick up some type of weapon. Man has used weapons to defend himself from both man and beast since the beginning of time. In many third world countries, most everyone carries a weapon all the time. It would be ridiculous to train mostly in grappling and kickboxing where everyone carries a weapon and they're not afraid to use it. According to police reports nation wide, by far the majority of assaults in America involve a deadly weapon. Furthermore, should you ever end up in the prison system, practically every fight involves a makeshift edged weapon.

Real combat (wars) have always involved weapons and always will. MMA fighters like to compare themselves to modern gladiators. While modern MMA may be one of the closest combat sports to what the gladiators did in ancient Rome, the obvious difference is that gladiators fought with weapons. What most people don't understand is the big difference between a weapons expert and someone with no training. It's exactly like Jiu Jitsu or Muay Thai in that a skilled practitioner of knife or stick fighting can dominate a novice. The response to this is often that "I'll just get a gun." The question then becomes, how much training with a gun have you done?

Firearms training is another important element of real self-defense. Many martial artists neglect this important part of martial arts training. The unfortunate truth is that in a street fight setting a gun can often come into play. Even "road rage" sometimes develops into a situation where an infuriated individual wields a gun. It's important to keep in mind however, that guns can jam or run out of bullets and are not a good choice for close-range combat. A knife is much more effective at close range, and will never jam or run out of bullets. Most everyone in the martial arts community knows that the Filipino Martial Arts of Kali and Escrima are the best arts for knife and stick fighting. What they often don't know is that Kali practitioners learn to fight with anything they pick up. Even firearms training is an important element of Filipino Kali.

In conclusion, MMA is the most complete modern combat sport. Any self-defense or martial arts program that's missing MMA training is missing a major element of real fighting. Mixed Martial Arts has proven that being a well-rounded and complete fighter involves cross-training. All MMA fighters understand this. There is no single martial art that has everything needed to be a successful MMA fighter, even within the limits set by the rules. Once the rules have been removed, as in a street fight, many more elements and skill sets come into play. Preparation for street-fighting and real-world self-defense requires even more cross-training than MMA in order to be truly prepared.

Daniel Sullivan, OC Kickboxing & Mixed Martiai Arts' Founder and Head Instructor, was born and raised in Southern California and is a graduate of the University of Southern California's Business School. With 25 years of Mixed Martial Arts experience, Daniel is one of the most qualified martial arts and kickboxing instructors in Orange County. He is a Black Belt Instructor in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under Cleber Luciano and Gracie Humaita and a Full Instructor in Muay Thai under the Thai Boxing Association U.S.A.

He also holds the prestigious Full Instructor rank in Jeet Kune Do under Dan Inosanto (the only man ever certified by Bruce Lee to teach Jeet Kune Do). Mr. Sullivan is a Full Instructor in the Filipino Martial Arts and a Guru in Maphilindo Silat under Dan Inosanto. In addition, he is a Silver Glove instructor in Boxe Francaise Savate, a 3rd level instructor in Miletich Fighting Systems and a nationally certified personal fitness trainer.

Martial Arts Learned Ten Times Faster!

2010-11-08T06:31:00.000-08:00

It took me near seven years to get my black belt in classical Karate, but it only took my instructor 2 1/2 years to get his black belt. I always wondered at this difference, but it wasn't until I began to take apart martial arts systems that I understood why. It turns out that there are several reasons why it takes people longer and longer to become expert and truly learn anything in the martial arts.

When I took apart the system I had been taught I found there were two systems. I had not only learned the classical system of ten forms that had originally been taught to my instructor, but I was learning an additional system of seven forms that my instructor had made up. I was also learning several other forms that my instructor had thrown into the mix just because he thought they were valuable.

This happens quite often throughout the world of the martial arts. Ed Parker, of Kenpo fame, for instance, began his career teaching simple karate forms. When he ran out of forms to teach he started putting vast amounts of kung fu into what he was teaching.

Now the problem is not one of not enough material, there is endless material out there. The real problem is separating the material of the martial arts into logical slices. Each of the slices must represent a logical look at a style or system.

If we were talking dance, we would be separating ballet from ballroom from whatever. If we were talking music we would be separating jazz from blues from so on. In the martial arts we must actually separate karate from kung fu from aikido from wudan...and so on.

When you separate the martial arts, you must understand the differences between basics and stylistic interpretations. You must understand that the hard blocks of karate, for instance, go outward from the tan tien, and wudan type blocks are rotated off the turning waist, and silat blocks are slipping types of blocks, and so on. If you don't understand these differences the arts will be difficult to absorb and complex.

If you don't understand these things then you are mixing different arts, and different ways of handling the body, and different ways of using energy, and so on. Thus, a peach becomes indistinguishable from a watermelon from a cantaloup, and so on. Thus, the arts become a mush which the mind finds difficult to absorb.

Understanding these differences, the arts become very easy to absorb, and the mind just absorbs and catalogues everything easy as pie. The martial arts, you see, are only illogical because we have made them so. Separate Wudan into Wudan, or karate into karate, or shaolin into shaolin, and the martial arts canbe learned in a matter of months, not years.

Al Case has studied martial arts for forty+ years. He has written dozens of articles for the magazines, and developed Matrixing Technology. You can find out how to separate arts and make them pure by picking up his free ebook at Monster Martial Arts.

Everything You Need To Know Regarding Silat Martial Arts Training System

2010-11-07T16:53:00.000-08:00

Silat is one of the ancient forms of martial arts in this world. It is famous worldwide, but is traditionally followed and practiced in Malaysia, Singapore and Southern Thailand. This martial art style was also customarily adopted and put into practice in Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, Philippines and in Brunei. Many years back, on the Malay Islands natives were trained and made proficient in this martial art. This martial art was very much a part of their culture and thus natives were given Silat training system.

The training system lay down on 7 secret disciplines. These disciplines are Bunga (the martial arts attacking and defensive positions), Jurus (the striking and defensive movements), Belebat (the silat activities in defensive positions), Tapak (the leg movements or patterns with one leg or both legs on the floor), Buah Pukul (the self defense movement ?that based on Bunga Silat movements), Tempur Seni (the art of combat in silat with artistic and scientific approach between 2 silat exponents) and Tempur Beladiri (the fast movement action of silat sparring that emphasize on silat skills for self defense purposed). ?Due to give the exponents to achieve the higher level in silat the Pelampas activities. Pelampas are the self defense exercises or drills with both hands and legs that the exponents need to practice every time outside of training session. These activities were introduced hundreds of years ago by the silat gurus to perfecting the silat exponent's skills.

Today, people from all over the world are fascinated and engrossed in this magnificent and unique of silat martial art form. Millions of people worldwide are interested in learning this martial art and mastering it through a proper training system. Various training schools and institutes have been set up in different parts of the world by Silat gurus and experts, for imparting the skill to others and encroaching Silat as an art form all over the world. The kind of agility and suppleness, self defense moves and actions acquaint its practitioners with, has magnetized people from different part of the world, especially from European countries.

Silat martial arts has different styles and forms, which can be mastered by intensive training. The most common and widely practiced styles include joint manipulation, bladed weapons and various other amalgamations. It is not just about fighting techniques and tactics; it has a very beautiful and enticing spiritual aspect ingrained in it as well.

Since, Silat is not just a part of one country' culture, it is a part of different cultures and customs. ?Though, this martial art has surpassed religion, it has many interesting facets. In Malaysia, most of the Silat gurus are Muslims therefore, for them Silat expresses their Islamic canons. In Philippines, Silat also known as Kali incorporates catholic code of belief, while in Bali or also known as Pencak Silat it proffers Hindu creeds.

This article was submitted by Cikgu Nizam, an expert and world leading silat coach online. Did you find these tips on silat martial arts article useful? Find out more about silat by going to http://www.SilatForBeginners.com

Martial Art Videos - Your Personal Guide For Self Defense

2010-11-06T22:23:00.000-07:00

The growing popularity of martial arts forms and styles through movies, magazines and books, have literally magnetized people from all over the world. Today, people are actually very much interested in learning at least one self defense form for safeguarding themselves and it is imperative as well. In many countries, schools and colleges have actually made it obligatory for their students to learn at least one martial arts style, so that they can defend themselves well in difficult circumstances. This initiative by schools have helped a lot and because it this students are trained quite early in life.

But, this facility is not available to everyone. Grown ups and adults who have completed their studies way back, needs to take training from experts. But, because of the busy and hectic working schedule people are living with, attending lessons in not a very convenient option for all. If you fall into this category of very busy individuals, but has a desire for learning self defense, then you'll get a solution here. The most convenient and expedient way of learning martial arts and not neglecting your prior responsibilities is by martial arts videos. Yes, if you have desire and yearning for learning self defense, then all you have to do is get your hands on the best martial arts videos available.

You can look out for some of the finest and optimum self defense videos from websites online buy them and start practicing various techniques and moves, whenever you get ample time. These videos are worth each and every penny you will spend for owning them. Such martial arts videos are very well made and ingenious, and allow individuals to practice martial arts without any confusion, of their own. Such videos have multiple lessons and practice sessions, they also provide help lines for clarifying doubts, which arise many a times. These videos can be great tools for learning self defense easily, on your own.

However you need to choose the exact video that match with your level. This can be beginners, intermediate or even expert level. Not all self defense video will teach you how to avoid and dodge any attack, how to block any strike from different angles and how to catch and lock your opponent without risking yourself in the danger. So, it is important for you to know at which level you need to start before buying them. You can ask martial art expert by mailing them or even using Yahoo Answer to get the proper answer on this matter.

This article was submitted by Cikgu Nizam, an expert and world leading Silat coach online. Did you find these tips on martial arts article useful? Find out more about Silat by going to Silat Clubs Manual and get a FREE report about Silat. Grab your free report here: http://www.SilatForBeginners.com

Dragon Meditation as Self Protection

2010-11-06T11:50:00.000-07:00

Every human needs protection mechanism to live as long as possible. A nation state need build modern police to protect their safety and security. They must build the best military force to protect from outside attack destruct national territory and authority. Humans as personal always need protection in everyday life. They must protect health, social relation, authority, physically, etc. Basic protection is protection system to protect their basic need from criminal, animal and climate attack.

Next, Personal protection system has very much type in the world. People can use pistol, knife, stick, etc to protect them self. Modern protection tools have been developing in security and protection industry. This tools like police baton, handcuff, water cannon, wall barricade, top guard, pepper spray, etc. This is good business nowadays because criminal increases day by day and police cannot protect all citizens in every time and every location.

One kind of protection system is martial arts to self-protection. Example of martial art is pencak silat in South East Asian, karate, kung fu, judo, etc. Many people interest join in martial art training club around the world. Their motivation is to protect them self and as sport to maintain health.

Usually martial arts has meditation lesson to complete their training. One example of this meditation is dragon meditation (DM). Actually, DM come from silat martial arts. But, now many people can learn DM only without silat martial arts. One unique characters of DM is providing self-protection capability. Many meditation training is South East Asian provide self-protection. But, easiest way to get self-protection is DM. After, you conduct DM regularly, you will get energy to protect your self from dangerous like criminal attack and animal attack.

DM protection mechanisms are:

[1] You will have sensitive capability to know what dangerous happen and you can avoid this before happen to you. Then you will safe from dangerous that will happen.

[2] You will feel dangerous and you can avoid it as soon as possible.

[3] If you face in attack, you can keep calm and has protection magnetic to all your body. People or animal cannot touch you as long as you are not attack, angry or emotion to it. Keep it to attack you but they cannot touch you. Keep it until they are stop self and you can go safely.

[4] The best protection mechanism is information come from your feeling. If your feeling tell dangerous, then you should be follow it and keep pray to God.

This article based on many peoples experiences including me. This is not my opinion only but many experiences from many peoples. I hope God protect us in every day life. May God bless us!

Mike Handy is meditation practitioner almost 18 Years in South East Asia. He has 8 seven type of Dragon Meditation for selected people. Now, he want everybody can enjoy this meditation via his website: http://www.mydragontattoo.com Ignore word tattoo in his website. The content is more important.

Master the Silat Martial Arts Form

2010-11-05T17:07:00.000-07:00

Silat martial arts form is profoundly entrenched in the Malay culture. It gradually popularized in Malaysia and soon became a part of their culture and customs. The origins and beginning of this martial arts form are vague and ambiguous. There have been many stories which describe the origin and establishment of this art form, but many believe that it origins from Malaysia. In its early days, Silat was considered to be a royal passion and only kings and prince used to learn this art form for attaining higher authority and power.

Silat martial arts form is regarded as an art for self defense, which helps people in achieving sound health and a strong body. In the past few years, people has shown great interest in learning this martial arts form because of its ability to furnish and endow them with tactics and skill for shielding and guarding themselves from the bad. It is an ancient martial art form.

Even today, Silat martial art has managed to encroach and reach different parts of the world. With establishment of Silat schools and clubs, many people have got a chance to become proficient in this art form and acquire this skill with mastery. With numerous styles and forms, Silat is a very diverse and unique form of martial arts.

People who are very much interested in learning different and numerous martial arts form, can rather become proficient with only Silat because it has a bit of Muay Thai, Kickboxing and even Judo. So, by learning Silat you are indirectly mastering so many other martial arts form as well.

In Malaysia, the Silat martial arts curriculum syllabus is divided into seven levels. Every level then is divided into seven topics or disciplines. The seven levels are divided into 3 elements; Tahap Rendah (Lower Phase which consists of 2 levels) and Tahap Menengah (Medium Phase which consists of 3 levels) and Tahap Tinggi (Higher Phase which consistes of 2 levels).?

Every silat exponents will be mark by bengkung or belt and also a title for every level achieved. Every silat exponents that just started silat class will be given 'Anak Gelanggang' or beginner title and will be wearing a white belt. Here is the phase, level, belt and title given in silat curriculum for every achievement made by the silat exponent:

First Lower Phase is known as First Level and will be wearing White Belt. The silat exponent will be given 'Anak Gelanggang' or Beginner Silat Exponent title.

Second Lower Phase is known as Second Level and will be wearing Blue Belt. The silat exponent will be given 'Pesilat Remaja' or First Rank Junior Silat Exponent title.

First Medium Phase is known as Third Level and will be wearing Brown Belt. The silat exponent will be given 'Pesilat Perkasa' or Second Rank Junior Silat Exponent title.

Second Medium Phase is known as Fourth Level and will be wearing Yellow Belt. The silat exponent will be given 'Pesilat Muda' or Young Silat Exponent title.

Third Medium Phase is known as Fifth Level and will be wearing Green Belt. The silat exponent will be given 'Pesilat' or Silat Exponent title.

First Higher Phase is known as Sixth Level and will be wearing Red Belt. The silat exponent will be given 'Pendekar Muda' or Junior Warrior title.

Second Higher Phase is known as Seventh Level and will be wearing Black Belt. The silat exponent will be given 'Pendekar' or Warrior title.

Every Silat exponent that already finished the silat syllabus of learning is pronounced as a Pendekar, and entitles to go for Silat Coaching Course to be a silat guru or instructor. They will be given management, coaching, judiciaries, technical and other skills needed to be recruited as a guru silat. In this division their rank are based on the level of their achievement as a silat coach and silat guru.

The highest rank in silat is known as 'Pendita' or minister because of his or her contribution to found and uniform the Silat Martial Arts curriculum. Here are the phase, belt and title given for every silat coach and instructor based on his achievement or contribution in coaching Silat:

First Warrior Phase will be wearing Black belt with one white stripe and will be given 'Jurulatih Muda' or Junior Instructor title.

Second Warrior Phase will be wearing Black belt with two white stripes and will be given 'Jurulatih' or Instructor title.

Third Warrior Phase will be wearing Black belt with three white stripes and will be given 'Jurulatih Kanan' or Senior Instructor title.

Fourth Warrior Phase will be wearing Black belt with four white stripes and will be given 'Ketua Jurulatih' or Head Instructor title.

First Guru Phase will be wearing Black belt with one yellow stripe and will be given 'Guru Muda' or Junior Guru title.

Second Guru Phase will be wearing Black belt with two yellow stripes and will be given 'Guru' title.

Third Guru Phase will be wearing Black belt with three yellow stripes and will be given 'Guru Kanan' or Senior Guru title.

Fourth Guru Phase will be wearing Black belt with one red stripe and will be given 'Penolong Guru Utama' or Grandmaster Assistant title.

Fifth Guru Phase will be wearing Black belt with two red stripes and will be given 'Timbalan Guru Utama' or Deputy Grandmaster title.

Sixth Guru Phase will be wearing Black belt with three red stripes and will be given 'Guru Utama' or Grandmaster title.

Highest Minister Phase will be wearing Black belt with one gold stripe and will be given 'Pendita' or Minister title.

Every silat guru and instructor needs to become a silat coach before the committee awarded the level and title. The silat martial arts curriculum was made to ease the silat exponent to master every topic or discipline from the easiest to the hardest syllabus. With this every silat coach and silat exponent will get benefit from the proper and step-by-step practical self defense training.

This article was submitted by Cikgu Nizam, an expert and world leading silat and self defense coach online. Did you find these tips on silat martial arts article useful? Find out more about silat by going to Self Defense Video

Learn Silat and Master the Practical Self Defense Moves

2010-11-04T21:29:00.000-07:00

Today, learning self defense is the need of the hour. With increasing crime rate and exploitation, it is imperative for each and every individual to learn practical self defense moves. There are various martial art forms that teach self defense techniques, which can be practised but Silat is gaining immense popularity these days among every age group.

This Malay art of self defense, which initially developed in Malaysia, is now spreading its wings throughout the world. Today, its practice is not just limited to its native countries Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand, but is now followed in countries world wide.

Over 200 different Silat moves are being practised today. Silat moves broadly have several components or elements: the bunga (which teach the exponent how to master the defensive and striking position), the jurus (which includes the art of attack and defense), the belebat (which teach the students to art of the defensive and counter attack movements), the tapak (the routine on how to destroy your enemy through step pattern movements), the buah (the art of self defense), the tempur seni (the art of self defense combat) and the tempur beladiri (the fast action of combat sparring). ?All of this will produce solid foundations for each individual to master the practical self defense moves, the most dangerous and destructive movements when involve the use of legs, knee, fist, elbow and arms in fast movement actions.

The students also will undergo the series of martial arts conditioning which involves the combination of vital point pokes, tear and claws with less movements but effective. The approach used and the tactics being practiced depends on whether the emphasis is given from the bottom to upper body maneuver, also called as langkah or footwork, to be used when facing variety enemy of different sizes.

When the person reaches the most advanced stage of Silat moves and training, he is equipped with skills for handling different types of weapons. The use of weapons in Silat training comes only after achieving mastery in the basic level Silat. The locks, kicks and blows, which are mastered while practising Silat, are derived from different spiritual components aligned with it.

More important, by learning silat you will have the ability to defend yourself using unarmed self defense no matter where you are or how many opponents you are facing due to the hard training received in the silat class. This will make you as master of all the practical self defense moves that ever exists in this world.

This article was submitted by Guru Nizam, an expert and world leading Silat martial arts and self defense knife coach online. Did you find these tips on practical self defense article useful? Find out more about self defense by going to http://www.CikguNizam.com and Video Silat at http://www.SilatForBeginners.com.

James Keating Comtech Trapping DVD 2: Applications and Advanced Drills

2010-11-04T07:45:00.000-07:00

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Jeff Speakman Kenpo 5.0 Karate Ed Parker White to Black Belt System

2010-11-03T19:07:00.000-07:00

American Kenpo version 5.0 is the hybrid of the last generation version of American Kenpo taught directly from Senior Grand Master Ed Parker to Jeff Speakman and ground fighting brought into the equation by Mr. Speakmans senior student Trever Sherman. Mr. Sherman has brought this type of combat back to Kenpo so he and Mr. Speakman could create Kenpo answers to defending against an opponent with these skills in the street.

It is modifying the existing 4.0 system while remaining completely within the combat models and thinking of American Kenpo to address this increasing and prevalent void in the Kenpo world. By keeping within these models of Kenpo we have been able to develop a system combining the best of these two worlds to give our students the maximum ability to deal with the very real possibilities of becoming involved in these kinds of altercations.

In addition it allows us to continue to develop ourselves within the mind-body-spirit paradigm of a true martial spirit to reach a higher level of individual performance and sustained excellence and therefore strengthening the group as a whole.

Price: $525.00

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Illegal Boxing DVD with Mark Hatmaker

2010-11-03T02:38:00.000-07:00

Cripple, Shock, And Cause Instant Blinding Pain And Nerve Damage To ANY Opponent You Use Them On!

These are the "stealth" moves the pro's use when the ref ain?t watching... or when it's "just you and me, buddy" in the street. Dirty, filthy, uncivilized tricks that will mess him up and teach him to fear You the very instant you use them!

Want a taste of what you're about to see? Check these filthy moves out:

* How to "soften him up" in the clutch with mini-head butts he won't see (and neither would a ref). Almost invisible illegal moves that will leave his head looking like a bruised banana. (And leave his brain ringing and slow.)
* "Nut cracker" moves that remove his child-bearing ability... even if he's wearing a steel-lined protective cup! (Very nasty, very effective.)
* Bust his ankle before he realizes you've moved. Soft tissue damage done with your thumbs that cause instant (and uncontrollable) panic! How the legendary bare-knuckle fighters like the great Jack Dempsey used "falling away" punches to put away larger opponents in a heartbeat.
* Maximum pain tricks that will take his mind off you... and force him to spend ALL his energy trying to get as far away from you as possible, as fast as possible! (Up to you if you let him.)
* "Corkscrew" elbow "insert" moves that turn missed punches into super-punishing "back slugs" that can end it right then and there. (He won't see it coming.) How to simply and easily rattle his skull so hard his brain will temporarily shut down in shock. (Great move against a larger and more cocky opponent!)
* Illegal ground moves that will CANCEL OUT all his superior grappling skills. (No one expects these filthy moves... but you can turn around a fight in a blink with them. Necessary if you're attacked from behind, or double-teamed.)

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Canvas Tote Bag Brown " Live without Silat - I don't think so!!! " Sports

2010-11-02T10:24:00.000-07:00

This is a great tote bag. Very useful . Ideal for daily use and anytime ! . All TopExpressions products are made under strict quality controls. 100% canvas cotton.

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Erik Paulson Killer Leg Locks 3 DVD Set BJJ MMA

2010-11-01T21:25:00.000-07:00

3 DVD Set of Killer Leg Locks with Erik Paulson

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Chi Energy - Activation, Cultivation and Flow

2010-11-01T05:29:00.000-07:00

This book explains real high level practices of Chi/Qi/Ki (Life-Force) activation, cultivation and flow that allow you to personally experience, build and work with Chi energy. Practices are explained in simple detail so that the average person can fully utilize and understand the knowledge imparted. There is a chapter on the role the mind plays in Chi Kung energy work and a basic definition of the word Chi and related terms.

There are also specific chapters in the book on mind intent, breathing, body states, physical alignments, Wu Chi, Bone Marrow Washing, Kidney Breathing, the Energy Ball, Rooting, Body Connection secrets, the Dan Tiens, important energy points, the 3 Dan Tiens Linear and how to get the maximum benefits out of your Tai Chi Training.

We are pleased to offer a text for Westerners to get a real understanding of Chi energy that will give beginners and more experienced practitioners enough working knowledge to truly advance their studies in this fascinating discipline.

Price: $24.95

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Different Styles of Karate

2010-10-31T18:57:00.000-07:00

Many people think that Karate came from Korea or China, this is not true. Although many styles did originate from these two areas, quite a few styles developed in other countries as well. The word Karate has been associated with any type of Martial Arts in the western world, and thanks to a few martial arts actors, have made the western world rush to learn any form of Karate that they could. The most famous of these actors was Bruce Lee; although he did not invent a new style, he just simply made it more public to the world. Other actors such as Chuck Norris, Jet Lee, Jackie Chain, Jon Claude Van Dam, have made the martial arts even more famous.

Japan and Okinawa developed their own form of Karate, with some changes being made from one instructor to another. Some styles have even been developed in the United States.

Originally Karate got its start in China, in the 16th century but the development of Karate started when Okinawan travelers began visiting China and were so enthused with this ancient style of fighting, that they learned the techniques and once they became masters of the Chinese Martial Arts, and in the 20th century these travelers went back to Japan and began teaching Karate to the solders, using the styles that they had learned and also made some changes of their own.

Today there are hundreds of different types all throughout the world. Karate is not just restricted to Oriental fighting techniques, in France, there is a form called, Savate, this style was first used in Marseille, and is a method of using kicks. Savate uses the feet and legs for both striking and blocking. It has become a form of today's kickboxing.

Krav Maga is a method of self-defense that was developed in Israel, and practiced by the entire Israeli Army; it has become quite popular in the United States.

1,000 years ago, India developed a form of Karate, called Pentjak Silat, which used forms of martial arts mixed with some mystic powers, magic, and healing. Pentjak Silat has now spread the Indonesian Islands.

Sambo is an ancient Russian self-defense art. It is used with the Russian Elite Special Forces, and consists of many striking, kicking and defense.

Sumo dates back to the 8th century and originally was held as ceremonies in the Imperial Court. It used the techniques of both boxing and wrestling. The competitors usually weight 100's of pounds (kg), but as time passed throughout the centuries, it has become a very popular sport in Japan.

Today many styles of Karate have adapted the belt system as a means of accomplishments for their students; however, the belt color system varies from school to school. The ranks have always started at 10 (being a white belt beginner), and ended at 1, and the Black Belts started at rank 1 and went to 10. Some schools now start their students from rank 10, which is considered a white belt beginner, and go to rank one, which enables the students to reach an extra grade. The grading of the belt colors starts at white, the beginner, and develops to yellow, orange, green, blue, brown, and black.

I hope this study of the different styles of Karate have helped people understand that there are many forms of Karate, and the ones that have been mentioned are just the beginning of the list.

To find out more about karate or another style of martial arts, or get supplies and equipment to support your training, visit http://modern-martial-arts.com

Chi and the Truth!

2010-10-31T01:16:00.000-07:00

Chi is a mysterious energy which constructs us, surrounds us, is us, and...what is it? To understand what Chi is we must define exactly who and what we are. To define who and what we are it is necessary to analyze our True Body.

The immediate body is the one you have which is typing the keyboard, playing the guitar, talking to friends and generally making use of the six senses. We are the eardrum and the eyeball and the throat and hair and toenails and everything in between that has organic sensation. We have fleshy existence and we journey about the planet in the pursuit of fleshy pleasures.

The body that we are concerned about, however, is the body that is built of Chi. This is the body which exists beyond the senses and into whatever distances we can perceive. Indeed, perceptions through the six senses have to be put aside if you wish to experience the larger body of yourself.

This brings us to the concept that if everything in the universe is our True Body, then what is this thing called Chi? Chi is that thing you have you call a body, it is the organic the organic thing you have presence in, and it is everything else, too. Call it a wavelength, or an concept, it doesn't really matter what you call it as long as we understand that it is.

Chi being understood, how do we control it? After all, we can move that finger or toe, why can't we wave that tree or move that cloud, if they really are part of our true body? Why can't we make it rain when we want, or stop that dangerous storm, or pull the plug on that stupid political party that keeps wasting our money/energy?

Well, for one thing, we can't make our True Body work because we are not used to making it work. We are used to sitting around and watching TV and being made stupid by pills and letting our senses be lulled, and this includes any sense of our True Body, into unconsciousness. We can undo this fact by practicing a discipline and by refusing to engage in any kind of programming, and by refusing any type of programming that does not allow honest exchange.

The discipline you practice must make you look at your immediate body, unbind your senses, excite your imagination, and open you up to the idea of your True Body. The discipline you practice must cause you to examine your immediate body until there is no mystery to it, and so that it is not merely an exercise in scientific examination. The discipline you practice must make full use of your senses until you step beyond your senses, outside of your immediate body, and experience your True Body.

If you are still unable to perspire the rain and wave the clouds at will, then you must understand that the True Body you are occupying is also being occupied by everybody else on the planet. Thus, to make your True Body move, you must make everybody else turn off their TVs and stop taking pills and let go of their unconscious and freezing hold on the True Body. You do this by helping them find a True Discipline that will take them beyond their immediate body and awaken them and take them.

Al Case has been studying the martial arts for over 40 years. You can visit him at MonsterMartial Arts.com, or at ChurchofMartialArts.com.

Knife Fighting Verses Knife Combat, "There is a Difference; How to Choose a Good Knife Program"

2010-10-30T09:01:00.000-07:00

You want to learn to use and defend against knives

You are a practicing martial artist and you decide that maybe there is more to defending your self against an edged weapon than some of those "fancy commando kung fu " moves you are learning in the Dojo. Chances are the Sensei, Shidoshi, Sifu, master or grand master will tell you that you are learning everything you need to know in the Dojo. Maybe you bought into it too. That is until the instructor decides to work on knife and counter knife techniques in class and you realize that the "Steven Segal flashy shim sham" wouldn't really work out on the street against someone who is un trained or even someone who is hopped up on narcotics. So what do you do?, Where does one learn Knife fighting? I guess you could try to track down your local dope dealing hood and ask if he'll show you some techniques from the ghetto. Maybe you could start a pen pal relationship with a prison inmate. It is often said that men in prison learn to fight with shanks and knives for survival. A more realistic approach would be to start in the phone book. Look for a martial arts school that offers a knife protection or defense program. If you are not satisfied with the phone book search, then try the Internet. Google has all the answers.

The Internet

Anyone who is interested in learning knife or counter knife techniques, and decides to type in knife combat or knife fighting will see; displays of links for Marc "The Animal" MacYoung or Hock Hocheim's methods of knife fighting or knife combat. These are two of the most respected names in the business of knife combat instruction. Marc MacYoung has an entire slew of web pages and Internet propaganda that would convince you to buy his "knife fighting" library; as does Hocheim. There are also hundreds of Escrima, Kali Silat and Israeli military combative programs advertised on the net. This plethora of options can only add to confusion. You ask yourself; "What is the best?" This is truly a million dollar question. For the most part people will simply choose the best style or system to suit their own particular taste. This article is just a reference to help assist knowledge hungry individuals who want to learn the basics of edged weapon combat.

How to decide on a good knife combat system

When looking for a good knife combat system there really are several details that one should be concerned with. There are always the basics.

Is the program easy to learn and pick up?

Does the system require lots of time and hours of training?

Is it efficient and practical?

There are some other things to to take into consideration. Things such as terminology, philosophy, is the system vetted and what is the source.

That's right I did mention terminology. You may ask , "what does terminology have to do with knife fighting?"

Terminology

Let's take the simple terminology of what it is that you wish to learn. Do you want to learn Knife fighting, or Knife combat? Is there a difference? You bet! Terminology often reflects philosophy for example let's take the term "Knife Fighting". Knife fighting implies struggle, when I hear the term knife fighting I often associate it with dueling. Dueling is the back and forth cat and mouse game of tag with edged weapons. This is truly not the mentality you want to have when dealing in edged weapon combat. The more you tag back and forth the more you get cut, the longer the struggle , the more likely you will be bled out and killed. This is serious business! Many programs that offer "Knife fighting" teach dueling. Many of these would be experts are simply "Joe black belts" from sing Sang's Dojo who want to dabble in the imaginary world of knife and edged weapon combat. The problem here is that knife and edged weapon combat is far from imaginary. This stuff is real and deadly! As someone who has been in the martial arts over 25 years I cringe at the sight of those "Knife fighting" systems.

"Knife combat" is another term which is often used in edged weapon combat instruction. This is a term I favor more, and yes once again it does matter. When one hears the word combat one can't help but think of war and soldiers battling on the front line. The thing about war is that it is deadly. Everything about war is death. You either kill or be killed. This term does not suggest that two people will frolic about back and forth with knives re enacting a theatrical version of the West Side Story. The term knife combat suggests that this is war. It is kill or be killed and it is all about efficiency. Efficiency is quickness when dealing with a knife wielding adversary. More importantly combat is one of those situations that to make it out alive is to have survived. This is knife combat.

Philosophy

The philosophy in which the system portrays is also very important. The philosophy behind the techniques is really the attitude of the instructor. Is the program stressing the importance of survival at all costs? Does the program concentrate too much on exact techniques? Does the program rely on fine motor skills or inform the trainee that in the heat of combat the body looses all fine motor skills when the heart rate exceeds 180 BPM? Does the program concentrate too much energy and time being on the ground? What stances, postures and grips are used and why? Your choice in a system should heavily rely on the mental and psychological aspect of the system and you should always have an explanation of why you are doing a stance, posture, move or technique. Recently there are more and more systems out there that rely on ground fighting with knives. There are actually instructors with so little common sense that have the audacity to try and pass off Jujitsu ground fighting as a great defense method in countering a knife. For anyone out there who believes that the ground is where you want to be in the street; I hope you have good life insurance. By the way you deserve what ever happens to you. This is not to say that you should not learn take down counters or ground techniques to aid in recovering if taken down. Ground fighting is a combat sport and not practical in a life and death scenario.

Is the program vetted?

It is always reassuring to know that the system you are training in is vetted. Being vetted is another term for has it been applied in real life, and was it successful. Once more I refer to the Internet. You will see a million people out there marketing their system by saying the C.I.A. uses it, Special Forces, Navy Seals, NY PD, etc. etc. The bottom line with this one is to do your research. there is no sure fire way to find out this information sometimes. Read about it. If they claim that the system is used and vetted by agency A,B,C,D; then google the system and agency or organization. Research, if it seems sketchy or un realistic it probably is. Another way to back up weather or not the system is vetted is to verify the instructor or founder's credentials. Research the source!

Verify the source.

This is my favorite part. Sometimes this is almost as entertaining as the vetting issue. Just like the vetting issue , where the systems have been used by Agencies A,B,C,D,E,F and G, The "Designer, Master, Guru,Instructor or Founder", will often claim their expertise through an unlimited number of platforms. Most often the favorites are Navy Seals, Secret Agents, Criminals turned good and Martial Arts Masters. My advice is do the research here as well. I will give you an example lets compare between two of the most respected names in the industry, Hocheim and "The Animal" Marc MacYoung. Hocheim is an actual military veteran who served in the 1970's after his service in the military he became a police officer in Texas and later on became a private investigator from 1997 to 2000. He even got into the private security field and has authored several books. I have to say this guy is legit and can back up any of his stories.

Now let's talk "The Animal" . Mr. MacYoung or "The Animal" as he calls himself has led a life, he self proclaim es as "street fighting and deadly knife battles". He notes himself as one of the most analytical thinkers on surviving violence. Although he is intelligent and much of his program is spot on as far as mental preparation and mind set, I have not bought in to his hype. He professes to have seen been part of and witnessed all kinds of deadly street battles and knife fights. Anyone who can claim the things that he states on his websites should by all rights be serving a life sentence. Although he may sell lots of books and put on a lot of seminars, I recommend to do your research.

Curriculum

The two gentlemen who I have mentioned above are the two top names in the enterprise of knife combat instruction. Of course there are several other options to choose from these are simply two of the more popular examples. I would like to give an example of what I feel a great knife program should entail in it's curriculum. Curriculum is the most important factor in choosing a solid program. Once more I refer to the How to decide on a good knife combat system portion of this article for the basics.

- Is the program easy to learn and pick up?

- Does the system require lots of time and hours of training?

- Is it efficient and practical?

I would also like to cover some very important issues that should be taught as part of a good knife program.

- Footwork

- Types of Knives and blades, and how they apply in combat

- Vital targets, (And I don't mean O'Sensei's mystical Chi point chart)

- Take down defense

-Transitions I.E. Knife verses Knife, Knife verses Unarmed, and Unarmed verses Unarmed Techniques

Food for thought

When looking for a good system you will have to find one that appeals to your core values and personal preferences. I hope that this article has been of service to you. I strongly recommend doing your research and keeping an open mind. If you are a Martial Arts student training at the local Dojo and your instructors are upset because you choose to venture outside the Dojo to enhance your knowledge in self protection training; then I also recommend that you look else where to train. Knife Combat is real, it is painful and it is deadly. Remember this may save your life or the life of a loved one. Anyone who would try to discourage enhancing your abilities in these areas doesn't deserve your time. Below I have linked several legitimate references for knife combat training. I hope that if you are truly interested in learning these techniques that you find a system that is right for you. I also pray that you never have to use it.

Hock Hocheim's CQC

Marc MacYoung's NoNonsense Self Defense

Combat Application Techniques

Andrew Curtiss is an Army veteran of 11 years. He is author of Combat Application Techniques: Principles Of Destruction (book on Knife and Hand to Hand Combat). Andrew is the former 1995 American Independent Karate Association Men's black belt champion in Kata, Sparring and Weapons. Andrew holds a 2nd dgree black belt in Tae Kwan Do and Shurite Kenpo Karate. He is a former kickboxer and current professional Mixed Martial Arts fighter.

His Websites:
http://www.freeselfdefense.zoomshare.com

Kujang - the Talismanic Sickle

2010-10-29T19:23:00.000-07:00

There is a unique weapon that originates in Western Java, in the Pasundan (Sundanese) region. This weapon is called "kujang," (pron. "koo-jaang.") Lacking the proper English equivalent for this we have used the term, "sickle," eventhough its form somewhat deviates from the true shape of a sickle. Neither does it resemble the "scimitar" which curves convexly. In Indonesian a sickle is actually called "chelurit."

The Javanese living in the eastern half of the Java island refers to the kujang as "kudi." To those who are uninformed, the indigenous people of the island of Java are not all "Javanese." The western part of the island is populated by a major ethnic group called "Sundanese." The kujang is the sole monument of the city of Bogor here in Indonesia.

The kujang is filled with mysteries. It is said that it carries within its form a magickal force with a mystical purpose. Embodied within its original figure lied the philosophy of the ancient Sundanese with its Hindu heritage. It is evident from the foregoing that this mystic blade was created to be more of a talisman, a symbolical objet d'art, rather than a weapon. This is especially so regarded in contemporary times.

The original creation of the kujang was actually inspired by a utensil used in farming. This utensil was widely used in the 4th to 7th centuries AD. The newly created kujang differed slightly from the tilling implements fashioned by the famed blacksmiths, Mpu Windusarpo, Mpu Ramayadi, and Mpu Mercukundo, as can be seen in the local museums. It was only in the 9th to 12th century that the form of the kujang took the shape that we are so familiar with today. In the year 1170 there was a change in the kujang. Its value as an amulet or talisman was gradually being recognized by the rulers and nobilities of the Pajajaran Makukuhan kingdom, especially during the reign of Prabu Kudo Lalean. During one of his spiritual retreats, Kudo Lalean was instructed through a psychic vision to re-design the form of the kujang to conform to the shape of the island of "Djawa Dwipa," as Java was called in those days. Immediately the sovereign king commissioned the royal blacksmith, Mpu Windu Supo, to fashion the blade seen in his vision. It was to become a weapon embodying mystical qualities and a spiritual philosophy; a magickal object, unique in its design, one that future generations would always associate with the Pajajaran Makukuhan kingdom.

After a period of meditation, Mpu Windu Supo confirmed the vision of Kudo Lalean and commenced with the fashioning of a prototype of the Kujang. It was to have two prominent characteristics: the shape of the island of Java and three holes or round notches somewhere in the blade.

Constructing the kujang blade into the shape of Java was interpreted to mean the ideal of unification of all the petty kingdoms of Java into a single empire, headed by the Makukuhan king. The three holes or round notches was to represent the Trimurti, or the three aspects of the godhead of the Hindu religion, of which Kudo Lalean was a devoted votary. The three aspects or gods referred to are Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The Hindu trinity was also represented by the three major kingdoms of that era, respectively, the kingdom of Pengging Wiraradya, located in the east of Java; the kingdom of Kambang Putih, located north-east of the island; and the kingdom of Pajajaran Makukuhan, located in the west.

The shape of the kunjang evolved further in later generations. Different models appeared. When the influence of Islam grew upon the masses, the kujang was re-shaped to resemble the Arabic letter "Syin." This was largely the stratagem of the sovereign of the Pasundan region, Prabu Kian Santang, who was anxious to convert the populace to Islam.

Knowing that the kujang embodied the Hindu philosophy and religion of the existing culture, the muslim rulers, imams and teachers, anxious to propagate Islam and dessiminate its doctrines, re-modeled the kujang to represent the basis of their religion. Syin is the first letter of the syahadat verse of which one testifies to the witnessing of the sole God and the Prophet Muhammad (blessed in his name) as the messenger. By reciting the syahadat verse, one is automatically converted to Islam. The modification of the kujang broadened the area of the blade which geographically corresponds to the Pasundan or western region of Java to conform to the shape of the letter Syin. The newly-designed kujang was supposed to remind the possessor of the object of his allegiance to Islam and to the obedience of its teachings. Five holes or round notches in the kujang replaced the three of the Trimurti. They represented the five pillars of Islam.

With the influence of the Islamic religion, some kujang models portray the inter-blending of the two basic styles as designed by Prabu Kudo Lalean and Prabu Kian Santang.

Nowadays, the kujang is often decorated in homes as it is believed to bring about luck, protection, honor, etc. They are displayed in pairs on walls with the inner edge facing each other. There is a taboo, however--no one is to be photographed standing in-between them as this would somehow cause the death of that person within a year. I have been assured by a senior practitioner of Kejawen the truth of this, as he had witnessed this himself. Why this occurs is not known for certain, we might shrug it off as superstition, coincidence or synchronicity but behind every phenomenon cosmic laws and intelligences are at work; we just need to discover what those laws are and the mind-set of those metaphysical intelligences directing those laws to know the reason for the anomaly.

From the occult side, like the keris, another weapon used by the indo-malayan natives, the kujang was often consecrated with magickal power and familiar spirits attached for specific purposes, such as the protection against psychic attack. Because of the inherent power of the kujang in conjunction with the presence of its spirit guardians, the well-informed natives revere them as sacred objects.

Luxamore
Metaphysical teacher, counseler, healer and merchant of occult/magickal items of Indonesia.
http://www.indotalisman.com/
http://www.bezoarmustikapearls.com/

Creating The Perfect Martial Art Body

2010-10-28T23:53:00.000-07:00

The martial arts don't really work unless your body is constructed properly. the purpose of this article is to help you construct your body, and make it perfect. You will find this is not good just for the martial arts, but everything. In fact, you will find that you know something the rest of the world doesn't know...how to configure your body for maximum efficiency and function.

The body is constructed of triangles. There is the triangle of the tan tien to the base of the feet. Thus, every stance is a reworking, restructuring, of the basic triangle.

When you explore all stances, when you establish all triangles, and when you understand the way a triangle supports energy, then you can establish a triangle for a longer period of time, and thus increase your base energy.

The important thing, however, is having the mental power to sink imaginary beams to lock your feet onto the planet.

Once you do succeed in locking down, however, anybody who strikes you will strike the planet, anybody you strike, is getting struck with the planet.

This is all assuming, however, that you are correctly aligning your body.

Now, the information you are reading here is something that only the best instructors know. the problem is that they don't know what they know. They do without knowing. What you need to do is explore this area and find out the truth about how your body really functions. If you do this...then you will become one of those instructors that people talk about and search for.

http://www.monstermartialarts.com

Attacks vs Fist Fights & Posturing

2010-10-28T13:20:00.000-07:00

What Constitutes an Attack

In the Martial Arts you hear and read about people who have used their Martial Art to physically defend themselves in a real situation. Often the defender could very easily have avoided the entire situation but instead due to any number of circumstances they ended up in a fight instead. I recently read an article by Nev Sagiba related to this topic and decided to add my 2 cents worth.

First of all, a physical attack is actually implemented when someone is actually closing the distance towards you or those you care about (or are in some way responsible for) and they are on their way to strike, stab, grab, beat or otherwise immediately hurt them or you Right NOW! For this to actually be a physical attack they also must be close enough that within seconds they can actually begin contact and the physical aspect of the attack is imminent.

A person who throws their fists up and threatens to beat you up is verbally attacking and physically posturing but not yet physically attacking. A person who is upset and yelling is upset or/and threatening and posturing is verbally attacking but not yet physically attacking. A person swearing at you is verbally attacking and posturing but not yet physically attacking. A person who is busting things in the room or kicking your car is posturing and attacking things but is not yet physically attacking you. You get the idea.

When I began learning martial arts a lot of what I learned taught a person how to engage in a fight. Fortunately for me my instructor was also very street-wise and taught me as much about street fighting as he did about the arts. Part of his training included the idea of getting out of there and using any unfair advantage you could get to win a serious physical confrontation. I also found that when I was threatened with a fist fight that I did not just jump in there swinging away like a mad man but that instead I had a tendency to utilize positioning and verbal skills to try to deter my would be attacker. Due to attacks, that I personally experienced, I also found that when I needed to defend myself that techniques that would allow me to quickly end a physical confrontation and get out of there were much more important to me than being able to exchange a lot of punches and kicks. This was partially due to the fact that even in school yard fist fights the average fight involved multiple attackers and if I got tangled up with someone the next thing I knew their buddies were also all over me. My findings and understanding of what happens in real situations eventually led me to Pentjak Silat, Kun Tao and Kun Tao Silat as the arts that I needed to deal with the harsh realities of surviving street encounters.

When a person attacks you verbally (yelling and threatening) or non-verbally (such as waving their fists) then a response of some kind is still called for. Generally speaking the response is fairly simple. Either work to help end and bring an acceptable solution/conclusion to the problem or simply remove yourself from the situation by running or driving away.

Awareness is key. If I have parked my car in a parking space that another driver has perceived as their parking spot and they are cussing me out all I have to do is move my car so that the other person can park there. It is inconvenient but not worth the trouble that would be created by allowing the situation to escalate to a physical confrontation. By the way, to fight with someone about this type of a situation would not be an attack as much as an agreed upon fight. When someone is a victim of "Road Rage" by another driver there are many responses that a person can choose. One of the responses is to pull over and physically fight with them. As soon as you pull over and jump out of your car ready to fist fight this becomes an agreed upon fight and not a physical attack.

The drunk person who grabs your wrist to ask you for money may not be attacking to kill you but they are definitely physically assaulting and attacking you. This does not mean that you need to seriously maim or kill them but it does give you the right to dump them on their tail and disengage yourself from them. If it is obvious that they mean no harm then I generally do not consider this as an attack. If their intentions are unclear in a potentially threatening way or seem threatening then I do consider it an attack and will treat it as such.

Utilize Awareness to the extent that you see the drunk person before they are close enough to put a hand on you and you simply do not allow them to touch you and when you are parking your car see where other traffic is so that you know if someone else thought the spot was theirs before you are in the parking spot properly lining up your car between the lines. Also and very importantly, if someone is approaching so they can physically attack you then awareness can make all the difference. You see the person approaching and remove yourself completely by driving or jogging away. If the attacker is attacking you at random then this generally ends the situation. Getting away is our first line of defense and the easiest to use with the least consequences after the fact. Good awareness skills are vital and properly utilizing them will stop most situations from becoming a physical attack.

I have been attacked about 15 times in the street. Two of the attacks were at gunpoint and fortunately for me were primarily verbal attacks and only one became physical when I grabbed the guy. The other one gun assault ended with no physical altercation as I simply talked to the guy and literally calmed him down. About six of the attacks were from multiple attackers and most of them involved a situation where the physical aspect of the attack was fairly immediate without warning or provocation. An example is a car screeched to a stop and out poured 4-5 guys running to attack me. I was in the wrong part of town and stood out like a sore thumb. The attack was most likely racially motivated but could have easily happened for other reasons as well as I was leaving a job where I was dressed very nicely in a suit in a very poor and financially depressed area of town in a large inner city area. I have had a knife pulled on me about 5 times. Fortunately, only one of these were a direct physical assault and most of them were what I like to call "show and tell" verbal assaults. The interesting thing is that in most of the knife assaults were multiple attacker situations where one person held the knife and threatened while others with them watched and backed them up. The bad news is that fairly common street tactic is for the group to hold you down while the person with the knife stabs you to death. By being aware of my surroundings only in the first of these attacks (which happened when I was 12 years old) did the attackers actually get within reach of me. Fortunately, it was only a robbery and I gave them my money and stuff and they were satisfied. For me this event was pivotal in my personal development of awareness and I was not ever caught that unaware or unprepared again. Eventually I grew up, graduated from college and moved away from the bad neighborhoods I grew up in but then for many years I lived and worked in Tampa Florida while it was the number 4 worst crime city in America. Eventually, I moved to a rural area with less crime and less people. Not a luxury everyone can afford and if they could then, of course, eventually the crime would follow them.

I realized at a very young age that if attacked by someone who would kill me in order to get a few dollars for drug money I would have to be willing to fight for my life and that it might mean seriously injuring or killing them to stop them. A person who is high might be seriously wounded and have a life ending injury and yet keep attacking without any realization of how seriously bad off they are. If you assume they will stop and they don't it is possible that the attacker just might take you to the grave with them. In our style of martial arts Clear's Silat based on Pentjak Silat, Kun Tao and Kun Tao Silat we work very hard to avoid and non-violently end confrontations but when lethal force is necessary against violent street lethal attackers we do not pretend that there is some humane way to end the situation. We try to get away as fast and early as possible. If it is not possible to get away then we do the maximum amount of damage in the absolute shortest amount of time possible with the goal being to get away and in our style of martial arts we practice exiting and getting away after any serious technique as the escape is the goal and the damage we inflict is simply one very serious tool in our arsenal to accomplish this end. This is the only way to survive against serious multiple attackers who will kill you and beat you to death without hesitation and then laugh about it later over Malt Liquor or shots of whiskey/tequila while smoking some crack. Criminals do not believe in a fair fight and they hope the intended victim does as it is an incredible advantage to them in a real situation. Hopefully you will be good at awareness and avoiding bad situations but if you are seriously attacked play to survive not to be friendly or fair to a hardened criminal who would think nothing of killing you or your loved ones.

Clear's Silat is the personal mix of Street Tactics, Pentjak Silat, Kun Tao and Kun Tao Silat devised by Richard Clear a practitioner of the arts for over 30 years. The art is based around surprise attacks by multiple attackers who are armed with weapons particularly blades and sticks such as baseball bats and utilizes avoidance and awareness techniques as well as physical tactics that are designed to immediately end a physical assault.

Sigung Richard Clear has over 30 years of experience in Chinese Kun Tao and Indonesian Silat.

For more articles and video lessons or if you have any questions or comments visit www.StreetKungFu.com