Martial Arts Asia

Kendo Tournament – ASEAN 2010

2010-08-16T10:02:00.000-07:00

Special Interview with Malaysia’s Kendo Team Manager

Brief introduction from the Author:

It is quite fortunate for me to get a chance to interview Christopher Sensei (5th Dan), I met sensei about a year ago and Chris Sensei is a very serious when it comes to training, a very humble person and at the same time someone who loves to share his experiences.

Although time is limited for this interview, but Chris sensei made full use of the time we had for the interview.

The Interview

MAA (Martial Arts Asia): Sensei, How many years has Malaysia been competing in Kendo Tournaments?

Christopher Sensei: If I remember correctly, Malaysia started competing internationally back in late 1970’s, and Prof. Baginda who is the President of Malaysia Kendo Association was one of the Pioneers back then.

As for Asean, it started around 1980s and back then it was known as a goodwill championship between Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia.

MAA: Sensei, can you share with us a few memorable from your experience in a tournament

Christopher Sensei: 11th World Kendo Championship in Santa Clara, US. It was the first time for few of us being exposed to international championship, to be there is already something memorable, but the best moment is when we score the first point, that is something that no one can ever forget.

MAA: Sensei, out of curiosity, normally how many players does Malaysia team send out for tournaments?

Christopher Sensei: It really depends, there is not much of a guide in the number of players that we send out, normally it falls back into the budget and the subsidiary we have. Normally, for tournaments in neighboring countries we would be able to send more players. Everything depends on the budget, and of course we would love to send out as much players possible for them to gain experience.

MAA: Sensei, ASEAN Tournament is around the corner, what results are you expecting?

Christopher Sensei: I do hope the team can do well, but this year we don’t have enough time for training and the chances we have to get everyone to train together is quite minimal due to most players are working and some studying.

Plus other team has been training really hard and they have some really youthful players with experiences which is a big threat to us.

MAA: Sensei, how long have the team been in serious training?

Christopher Sensei: Not too long ago, only since early July

MAA: Sensei, which country do you think for this coming ASEAN is the toughest competition? And who will win?

Christopher Sensei: I would say Thailand, they have some promising young and experience players which started training since their teens or early twenties which they are around 30s now. Plus in Kendo Shiai, One Key factor is Stamina.

MAA: Sensei, how do you choose your players? Is Dan is prerequisite?

Christopher Sensei: Haha.. nope, Grades are never a prerequisite to us, we look at the Kendo spirit and the skills that the players have, everyone who have a fair chance. We normally will observe everyone during the classes, and if we think that the player is good enough, we will approach the player.

MAA: Sensei, how long have you been managing the Malaysian Team? And are there any tough moments managing a group of martial artist?

Christopher Sensei: Started around year 2000, and as a team manager, I have to think of ways to build up the team’s spirit. Normally I would coax the players to practice more, and do more. There was never a tough moment because everyone in the team does it for the love in kendo.

We learn from each other, and we respect each other, everyone share and everyone learn that is how we build our relationship. Even as a sensei, I learn from the players a lot and of course I share with the team what I know and that is how we improve.

MAA: Sensei, I am curious, why do you pick up kendo in the first place? There are so many martial arts like judo, karate, but why Kendo?

Christopher Sensei: Haha… I never have any experience from other martial arts, and kendo came into my like when I was in my 30s. Somehow I felt that kendo is easy for myself to pick up and I did my best to train since then. Until now, kendo has been my way of life.

Sometimes I have a rough day at work, tired, lazy, but because of kendo I have become more discipline, no matter what happen, when the time for kendo calls, I will be ready in the Dojo, no matter what. And for myself, In Kendo, I prefer to lose a point during sparing in the class and embrace the failure, because with the failure I know how to progress and become a better Kendoka.

MAA: Thank you sensei for the lovely interview, just a last question, if anyone reading this blog in Malaysia would like to join the Kendo class that you and other sensei’s are teaching, who can they contact?

Christopher Sensei: you can call 60-3-7728 7577 or email tlyap@pop.jaring.my to our Yap Sensei who is also our Secretary General for Malaysia Kendo Association (MKA)

MAA: Thank you very much Sensei for the precious interview

Christopher Sensei: It’s my pleasure to be able to share

From The Pros - Kendo

2010-04-30T08:33:00.000-07:00

Special Interview with my Sensei, Miho Iwamoto

Name: Miho Iwamoto

Country: Japan

Type of Martial Arts: Kendo

Rank / Belt: 5th DanAward /

Achievements:
-Hong Kong Asia open kendo championship '09 champion '10 second place
-'05 Tokyo public offices kendo tournament individual champion
-'05 All Japan public offices Kendo tournament individual Best 8
-'02 Tokyo junior college kendo tournament individual champion

Years of Training: 20years

How / Why you start Kendo?: My grandfather (7dan) has dojo

When was the first time you won a kendo competation?: 11years old

How do you feel at that time?: I was Very happy and I can't stop crying

Why do you think Kendo is a good?: We can become strong not only body but also mind.

What would you advice to Beginners?: Don't think seriously. Please ENJOY first.

Notes from the Chief Editor:

2010-04-30T08:12:00.000-07:00

I still remember when I was only 14 when I first got to learn about Martial Arts, I was always beaten up by some school bullies, learning Martial Arts was just to defend myself. I was very active in other sports too, such as Basketball, Swimming, Skating, but my favorite day fell on Sunday, because I get to go to my favorite class, which is Martial Arts.

It all ended when I reach 17, after a serious injury during sparing. And I am not able to pick up any more sports after that.

Back in 2009, while I was reading the weekend papers, something caught my eye. It was an interview on about Kendokas in Malaysia. I was thinking, it would be great if I can still do martial arts (some of you might understand) I decided to call up the club which is JCKL (Japan Club Kuala Lumpur) and join.

The first 2 class was tough, I can’t even barely run, and now I need to slide and raise my heel while standing? I taught of giving up upon the 3rd or 4th class. It was when I first saw Iwamoto Sensei in her Bogu sparing.

She has the person the lit up the fire in me to continue training, I was stunned with her move. She is so graceful in her moves, Especially when she block a “Men” cut and immediately charge at the opponent with a “Do” cut. It looked as if she is dancing.

I really hope Iwamoto Sensei is reading this because I really wanted to thank her very much as I didn’t get to thank her when she left back to Japan, I enjoyed and loved every single class that I go to and I felt as if I’m young again. After enduring a year of pain while doing Suriyashi, the pain is now gone, sometime I do feel the pain coming back, but it doesn’t matter anymore, cause I enjoyed my class.

Ishii Sensei, Chua Sensei, Masuo Sensei, Yap Sensei, Lim Sensei, Wong Sensei and sorry if I missed any names, has been really kind to me and made me realize how fun can Kendo be, I slowly realized that I have changed a lot in the past 1 year, and now Kendo is not what I do for fun anymore, it has been a part of me.

I really wanted to thank all Sensei/Teacher/Master/Senpai like Kongnapa (Muay Thai) , Mark Small (Tai Chi), Graham Clunan (Taijutsu), Michael S. Fuchs (Tai Chi), Ric Hurst (Ninjutsu), Ebony Washington (Taekwondo), Antonio Graceffo (Bokarto) for accepting the interviews and being an inspiration to the students like myself

Please do enjoy the short interview with my favorite and the MOST Graceful Kendoka I have met, I hope that those who wanted to take up Kendo, can really get some advice from her.

Regards

ShouJian

Introduction to Japanese Martial Arts

2010-04-27T00:47:00.001-07:00

Japanese Martial Arts also commonly interchanged with “Budo” or “Bujutsu” literally means the art of war and/or the application of the Japanese Martial Art techniques in actual combat scenario.

It all started back in the Samurai eras where all the warriors are expected to master various combat weapons as well as unarmed combat, and that is around the time where the purpose of mastering and perfecting the skills of Martial Arts became a Philosophy of Achieving Spiritual Goals began.

Weapons for Armed Combat You might be interested in the type of Japanese Martial Arts especially with the wide range of weapon that the warriors has used, which the COMMON ones consists of:

Bo (Long Wood Staff)

Jutte

Kama

Katana

Naginata

Nunchaku

Sai

Shuriken (Flying Star)

Tanto

Tonfa

Yari

Yumi (Bow and Arrow)

And yes, these are not the only weapons that the Japanese Warriors used, there are actually more, as the tools keep on changing due to the development of the combat techniques, and all these weapons are studied with great depth as the techniques evolved into perfecting the martial art itself.

Koryu and Gendai Budo

In Japanese Martial Arts, there is a slight difference with the rest of the Martial Arts in Asia. The difference is due to Meiji Restoration era where Martial Arts are generally divided into 2, which are Koryu and Gendai Budo.

Koryu is basically known as the “Old School/Traditional” way where the arts are founded before the Meiji Restoration back in 1866-1867. And Gendai Budo is the Martial Arts after the Meiji Restoration.

The Main difference between Koryu and Gendai Budo is Koryu martial arts are used for war and the tradition is preserved since then. And Gendai Budo is the martial arts that have been modified due to modernization where the focus is more to self improvement or self defense.

Images taken from:

Powayshotokan.com

Bubishi.com.au
Freewebs.com
Iconarchice.com
Okinawankarateclub.com
Trueswords.com
Bugei.com
Crimsontigers.com
Oriental-weaponry.co.uk
Weaponhouse.blogspot.com

Introduction to Tat Kun Tao

2009-09-24T01:45:00.000-07:00

Tat Kun Tou or Tat Kun Tao is commonly mistaken as a martial arts that originated from China, but in fact Tat Kun Tao is actually a martial arts that was founded from the Philippines. Captain Jose Millan Go (Ju Go) from the Barangay community was one of the first few students of the Balintawak master Anciong Bacon.

Grandmaster Jose “Jo” put together practices from schools like Tai chi and other Kun Taos such as Five Ancestors and later created a mimic version of unarmed Balintawak now known as Tat Kun Tao. Grand Master Jo fused the simplicity, and straightforwardness of Balintawak with Tai Chi and other Kun Tao that he has learned over the years.

Not much info can be retrieved by research, the only thing that we have besides the above is that Master Jo was still teaching the art of Tat Kun Tao until he passed away in year 1991 and also his Dojo is still running in Cebu by his students.

Introduction to Yabusame

2009-08-18T21:15:00.000-07:00

Yabusame is one of the hidden treasures of martial arts, not much of us have heard of it before and for some NON-Japanese like myself, it sounds more like noodles more than martial arts.

Yabusame is actually an armed martial art, or should I say archery, originated from Japan, it is performed while riding a horse. It all begins from the Kamakura Period. Where it begins from the military is alarmed that their army or Samurais is not good for a long distance battle, therefore the Samurai were grouped and Yabusame started from there. Although the use of bow in the Japan started from 300BC, but it is officially made as a type of martial/battle art only during the Kamakura Period.

During the Kamakura Period Yabusame was used as a military training exercise to keep samurai prepared for war. Those archers who did poorly might find themselves commanded to commit seppuku.

Yabusame is not the only type of Horseback Archery, but Yabusame is only 1 out of the 3 type of Horseback Archery and I have outlined some details for your easy reference.

-Yabusame is the most well-known form of Horseback Archery, and it is held at shrines as ceremony which shoots on 3 different targets.

-Kasagake has different sizes of targets each of which is set at different height, and the archer shoots both ways.

-Inuoumono is not in practice anymore. In the practice dogs were used as targets, so it was practical and effective practice to sharpen horseback riding skill as well as shooting skill but I think that most of us will agree that this act is a bit brutal therefore we are happy that it was banned!

A Yabusame performance starts with the archer dressed as a traditional warrior gallops down a 255 meter long track at full speed and controlling the horses with his knees and shooting 3 targets on the way down. The arrow that is used are mainly blunt and round but experience archer are allowed to use a v shaped arrow.

Image taken from komei-juku.com

Introduction to Pehlwani

2009-08-03T20:36:00.001-07:00

Pehlwani also known as kushti is a form of wrestling that is practiced by people in both India and Pakistan. It was inspired and a mixture between Malla-yuddha which is the Ancient form for wrestling in South Asia together with Shastar Vidiya and Mongolian wrestling traced back all the way to the 5th century BC which form the modern Pehlwani.

No pehlwan (Phelwani Practitioner) have not heard of the name of Great Gama, won the World Wrestling Championship in year 1910 and was remain undefeated with only a draw in his whole entire career as a wrestler and even featured in Shadow Hearts: Covenant.

Not much know about this but during the 1960’s, India was ranked among the top 10 wrestling nations of the world and they even hosted the world wrestling championships in New Delhi in 1967. Pehlwans who compete in wrestling nowadays do train in the grappling aspects of other martial arts such as judo and jujutsu. Legendary wrestlers like Karl Gotch went to India to learn the art of pehlwani and to polish their skills.

Milk and ghee are regarded as the most common diet to the wrestlers, other diet includes almonds, chickpeas, apples, wood-apples, bananas, figs, pomegranates, gooseberries, lemons, and watermelons. Orange juice and green vegetables are also recommended for also not all but some pahalwan do consume a lot of meat for it’s protein to help with muscle building. Other diet discipline includes no sour or spiced foods and no alcohol and tobacco.

Allrite, I’m not going to wrestle! Happy reading

Image Taken from: pakistaniat.com

Introduction to Krabi Krabong

2009-07-21T00:41:00.001-07:00

Krabi Krabong is a weapon-based martial art from Thailand, not much know about this art but this martial art is indeed an affective one. Just like other martial arts, Krabi Krabong was featured in movies as well, in James Bond “The Man with the Golden Gun” Krabi Krabong uses up to 20 weapons for combat training, which below are only a few examples:

1. Daab (Sword) Used individually or in pairs
2. NGAU (Spear) Used when riding an Elephant
3. Mae sauk (Clubs) Made from wood or bone to be worn on the forearm
4. LOH (Round Shield) For Defense or Attack
5. Kaen (Medium Shield) For Defense or Attack
6. Plong (Staff) Used for blocking, striking and stabbing.

Krabi Krabong is believed to be around 400 years old but this fighting style is believed to be develop through the Burmese war with Thailand, it was influenced by many types of martial arts put together. Besides weapons, Krabi Krabong incorporates unarmed techniques as well. The empty-handed form is kick-based but also uses pressure points, locks, holds, and throws.

In a nutshell, Krabi Krabong uses a variety of weapons and open hand techniques to beat down it’s opponent. The Krabi Krabong practitioner is skilled at using the above weapons and surprisingly, the name Krabi Krabong comes from two of its weapons, krapi (sword) and krapong (a type of staff). It was said that every single royal bodyguard from His Majesty King Rama IX of Thailand all the while until today’s Thai King are all highly trained experts in Krabi Krabong.

Speaking of Thai Martial Arts, the first think that you might think of is the Wai Kru or the praying session to the god of 4 directions. In Krapi Krabong, after the Wai Kru, the fighters will have a sword dance, which is divided into Single or Double Sword Dance, some of the dances are for Single Sword Dance are: Cher Chy - Fly like the Angel, Dern Phom - Walk like the Lord Phom and the Double Sword Dance are: Suar Talai Heng - Tiger Attack, Horrng Piek huk Bird - with broken wings and Kakabard Cross Swords

Image taken from: aitma.de

Kendo Terminology

2009-07-12T23:18:00.000-07:00

Equipment:

-Bogu: Protective armor used in kendo
-Bokken / Bokuto: A wooden sword used in martial art and kendo training also known as a bokuto
-Dou: Chest protector in kendo. Also refers to the target area covered by the chest protector
-Gi: A training uniform, Upper part of the uniform, Short for keiko gi
-Hakama: A training uniform, Lower part of the uniform, Traditional pleated divided pants
-Katana: A Japanese long curved sword
-Men: Head or Head/face protector which is part of kendo protective armor
-Men Buton: The wing-like sides of the men
-Shinai: A kendo practice sword made of bamboo strips
-Himo: Strings, as on practice uniforms, protective equipment or armor
-Kote: Protective mitts that protect the hands and wrists that are a target
-Sakigawa: The leather tip of a shinai
-Tare: A kendo hip protector.
-Tenegui: A small cotton towel with a wide variety of uses, including to cover the -kendoka's head under the men
-Tsuba: A hand guard on a shinai, boken or sword.

Training Instructions:

-Ashibaki: Footwork
-Ayumiashi: A normal stride or walk
-Hajime: Begin
-Hidari: Left
-Hidari-Do: The left of the torso protector, a target in kendo-Hidari-Men: Left side of the head, a target in kendo
-Hikiwake: A draw (no winner) in a kendo match
-Haya suburi: Striking practice where sword strikes are done quickly while moving towards and then away from the target
-Ippon: One point
-Issoku-Itto No Ma: The basic combatant distance in kendo where one step forward will bring the two participants into striking range
-Kendoka: A kendo student or practitioner
-Kirikaeshi: The repetition of strokes of the shinai, often done as an opening exercise
-Mokuso: Command to close the eyes and begin meditation
-Mate: Wait, pause, stop
-Ma-Ai: Combative engagement distance
-Men Tori: A command to remove the men, or face/head protector used at part of kendo armor
-Migi: Right
-Migi-Do: The right side of the torso protector, a target in kendo
-Migi-Men: Right hand side of the head, a target in kendo
-Mushin: An empty and clear mind: a mind not fixed or occupied by thought or emotion and thus open to everything
-Okuriashi: A sliding step commonly used in kendo
-Rei: Bow
-Sage to: Carrying sword posture, the position used to carry a sword into the practice or performance area
-Seiza: Formal sitting
-Sempai: Seniors
-Sensei: Honorific expression used by students in addressing their teacher or instructor
-Shidachi: The defender in a kendo kata
-Shomen Uchi: A strike to the head
-Sonkyo: A crouching position used at the opening of kendo bouts wherein partners show one another respect before starting
-Suburi: Repetitious practice of basic sword strokes as in kendo
-Tenouchi: Gripping the shinai
-To Ma: A distance of more than one step (in order to strike) from an opponent
-Tsuba Zerai: A kendo technique of closing with the opponent and immobilizing their shinai at the hand guard
-Tsuki: A thrust to the throat that is a target area
-Tsukuri: A pulling action used to off balance an opponent in kendo
-Uchi Dachi: The aggressor in kendo kata
-Uchikomi: Attack practice done repeatedly
-Yame: Command to stop or finish
-Zarei: A bow from a kneeling position

Stance

-Chudan No Kamae: A stance in kendo in which the opponent is faced directly and the shinai is held at the center of the body
-Gedan No Kamae: Stance in which one faces the opponent directly, but the shinai is held with the tip pointing towards the opponent's knees
-Hanmi: Triangular stance, where one foot is in front of the other and where the hips are at a 45 degree angle to the opponent
-Harai Waza: Warding off techniques
-Jodan No Kamae: A sword stance where the sword is held with both hands high above the head, elbows spread wide to maximize vision, one of the basic combative engagement postures in swordsmanship and kendo
-Hasso No Kamae: A stance where the sword or shinai is held at the right side of the head, one of the basic stances (kamae) in the sword arts
-Kaeshi Waza: Deflecting a shinai by using the power of the opponent's strike
-Kamae: Combative engagement postures
-Kansetsu Waza: Joint techniques or attacks
-Kata: A prearranged sequence of movements
-Katsu: Resuscitation techniques
-Nidan Waza: Two step techniques
-Nuki Waza: Techniques that utilize dodge tactics
-Oji Waza: The practice of feints, deflections or parrying followed up with an immediate counter of a technique
-Sandan Waza: Three step techniques
-Sayu Men: Strikes to alternate sides of the men
-Shikake Waza: Catching an opponent off guard and attacking
-Shinzentai: A natural stance
-Suriage Waza: A method of sliding up a shinai (practice sword) to ward off an shinai attack so as to be able to counter attack
-Uchi Otoshi Waza: Practice of striking a shinai (practice sword) down and immediately attacking
-Zanshin: Passive, non-threatening stances and kneeling in such a way as to be always ready to draw a sword indicate the fact that

Other:

-Chikaku: A position of advantage outside of an opponents front foot.
Chu: Middle, or center
-Dan: A category used to describe the rank (black belt or dan level) of an advance practitioner of a martial art
-Dojo: A martial arts training hall
-Hanshi: An honorary certificate signifying a master, usually issued to those who have achieved a ninth or tenth dan
-Hantei: A judgment or decision as in a tournament
-Jin: Tendons or muscles
-Kamiza: A place of honor or deity seat often the front wall of a dojo were there may be a Shinto altar, scroll or picture of a teacher or founder
-Kiai: A shout which can have an incredible emotional impact. To hear the kiai in a kendo training hall is to experience kiai as the unity of body and spirit
-Kissaki: The point of a shinai or tip of a sword
-Kodachi: A Japanese short sword
-Onegaishimasu: A formal way of asking for a favor which in kendo and other martial arts has come to mean, "please practice with me," the wording used (often with a seated bow) to start practice
-Renshi: An honorary certificate signifying a trainer, usually issued to those who have achieved a fourth through sixth dan
-Saika tanden: A point on the lower abdomen, also called the center, considered to be the body's center of gravity and locus of energy
-Shiai: Contest
-Shiaijo: Contest area
-Shimpam: A referee
-Shoshinha: A beginner in kendo
-Tachi: A Japanese long sword
-Taikai: Tournament
-Taiko: A large drum used for signaling in many traditional dojos, such as to call class to order
-Uke: Partner, the person being thrown
-Waza: Technique
-Zen Nippon Kendo Remei: All Japan Kendo Federation

Image Taken from: martialartsfashion.com

Introduction to Tai Chi

2009-07-10T00:42:00.000-07:00

Tai Chi Chuan (ultimate fist) is now more famous being practiced for health reasons but it has a long history to start with. Tai Chi Chuan focuses on the flow of the Chi and it was believed that Tai Chi Chuan gain tremendous benefits in terms of health or longevity. If you still wonder how Tai Chi Chuan looks like, go to parks in the morning and if you find a group of people moving in a slow motion routine that’s most probably Tai Chi Chuan.

Most modern Tai Chi Chuan styles can trace their development back to the 5 main traditional Tai Chi schools which is Chen, Yang, Hao, Wu and Sun. Most of us might notice that the Symbol for Tai Chi Chuan is the Yin and Yang symbol, but not much know that it is actually a Taoist symbol which represent fast and slow movements.

Speaking of Tai Chi Chuan, the person that we must not ignore is the Taoist Monk Zhang San Feng back in the 12th century. According to what we understood here Zhang San Feng studied Tao Yin which is the breathing exercises and different martial art forms from Shaolin monastery. But the founding of Tai Chi Chuan is also by accident, where Zhang was looking at a dried Calabash, Gourd (Wu Lou) that floats on top of a huge urn that was used to store water, no matter how hard he tried to knock the Wu Lou, it keeps floating up again and again after sinking and there are not much that was listed on this but as per what was told, it attributes to the founding of the basic movement of Tai Chi Chuan.

Some might think that Tai Chi Chuan is always about slow controlled movements and not much have seen the fast moving movements, It happen back in the Ch’ing Dynasty where after Manchurians has invaded the Chinese Empire, The new emperor saw that Tai Chi Chuan is very well spread in the Country and also those who practiced this martial art are in really good health conditions, therefore he demanded to learn Tai Chi Chuan and it’s secret. But due to the grudges that those at Ch’ing Dynasty hold against the Manchurians, the Masters at that time are not keen in teaching the secrets, but by doing so it will mean death. Therefore the fast pace Tai Chi Chuan was omitted and the new Emperor was taught only the slow paced part. And since the slow movement pace of Tai Chi Chuan started growing and was categorized under Neijia (Soft or Internal) Martial Arts.

Tai Chi Chuan trainings consist of the followings:

Weapons: Jian (Straight Sword) , Tao (Broadsword), San (Folding Fan), Kun (Wooden Staff) Qiang (Spear), those not so famous weapons are Da Tao (Big Broadsword), Pu Tao (Sabres), cane, rope-dart, 3 sectional staff, whip and more...

Sparing: 2 Person Tournament, Sashou

Breathing: Nei Kung / Chi Kung

Image taken from : topnews.in

Introduction to Iaido

2009-07-04T07:56:00.000-07:00

Iaido means the immediate reaction on the metal way or in a direct translation, Iizasa Ienao founded Iaijutsu which later was changed to Iaido.

Iaido is normally often mistaken as a part of kendo or kenjutsu but infact it is a totally different thing. Iaido is associated with the smooth and controlled movements of drawing the blade, with immediate reaction cutting an opponent and removing the blood before replacing the blade back into the scabbard.

Normally students or Iaidoka will use a shinken (unshapened blade) but there are also Dojos that use the real thing on their practices, while new students only uses a boken. The teachings are based on 90% of Katas, please do correct me if I’m wrong, the Katas can have up to a few imaginary opponents but there is no sparing or combative competition for Iaido.

It is quite hard to find a pure Iaido dojo, normally it is shared between Kendo or Akido and even it’s uniform are similliar which consists of Gi and Hakama.

Iaido is very much confused with kendo or kenjutsu and the difference for, Kendo is that kendokas are not taught the techniques of drawing and replacing blade back to it’s scabbard and also Kendo has sparing sessions as well as using Shinai, Boken and Metal Blade. Where else Kenjutsu are normally practiced with a partner in a form of Kata which is quite similar to Iaido except the partner part.

I really like the part of Japanese Martial Arts and the way they show respect to a lot of stuffs like the Dojo and your sparing partner, this image is a normal procedure that was practiced to show respect to the blade before and after practice.

Image Taken from: www.onlinedojo.ca

Introduction to Hapkido

2009-06-23T22:24:00.001-07:00

Hapkido (Hap - Joining / Harmony) (Ki – Internal Chi) (Do – Way) which translate to the way of joining the energy contains both long and close range fighting techniques.

Long Range: kicking, hand strikes
Close Range: pressure point, joint-locks, throws

Hapkido to me is like a son of Jujutsu and a brother to Judo, as Hapkido is like a Korean version of modified Jujutsu. As most Korean martial art lover might know, Hapkido is consider as the great grandfather of Taekwondo which was evolved from Taekyeon.

If you are a nunchuck lover you might love this art as well, Hapkido is one of the few rare martial art that uses weapons such as rope and nunchuks, besides this two other weapons also consists of cane, short stick, staff and sword.

Hapkido emphasize on non-resisting movements and circular motion which is quite similiar to taichi where the are will try to avoid using strength against opponent’s strength but using the footwork and body positioning as an advantage towards the opponent.

The main principles of Hapkido is following the middle way, not like Jujutsu that focus on the soft scale or Taekwondo who focus on the hard scale, in Hapkido, it is a combination of both, from throws and locks to punches and kicks.

In the main principles of Hapkido, it is alter broken down to another 3 principles which is

1)Hwa (Non-resistance principle) – Not hitting back when attacked, but used it’s momentum towards one’s advantage

2)Won (Circular movement principle) – Using opponent’s power to redirect the power back to himself

3)Yu (Harmony Principle) – Just like a flow of water, when we try to cut the water, the water will move and wrap around the blade to sink it

Hapkido derived from the Jujutsu system that was taught by Master Choi Yong Sul (1899-1986) who brought the art back from Japan, and adding additional Kicks and Striking techniques to make Hapkido whole. Later Master Suh Bok Sub who is one of Master Choi’s first student opened up the first dojang/dojo known as Hapki Yu Kwon Sool Dojang which later the name was changed to Hapkido

Master Kim Moo Hong who is another of Master Choi’s student who plays an important role in the history of Hapkido developed many other further types of kicks used in Hapkido today. Also Master Kim founded the Korean Hapkido Association and later merge the association with groups of Hapkido practitioner lead by Ji Han Jae and Myung Jae Nam to form the current Republic of Korea Hapkido Association in 1973.

Master Ji Jan Jae who is also the trainer for the bodyguards of Korean President Park Jung Hee. Master Ji incorporated kicking and punching techniques from “The Traditional Style of Korean Martial Arts” Also with the support of the Head of Security Forces, Master Ji later founded Dae Han Hapkido Hyub Hwe which is also know as Dae Han Hapkido Association which was later merged with Master Kim and Master Myung’s Association. And if you are interested to check our Master Ji’ moves, you can check out Bruce Lee’s movie called Game of Death which Master Ji co-starred in.

Master Myung Jae Nam is the founder of Korea Hapki Association also know as Hangook Hapki Hwe which was later merged with Master Ji and Master Kim’s association that formed Republic of Korea Hapkido Association. Although not much are written about Master Myung, but he is a very influential person in the world of Hapkido. It was till later where Master Myung decided to breakaway from the Hapkido Association and focus on promoting a new style that he created known as Hankido

Image taken from: upload.wikimedia.org

From The Pros - Tai chi

2009-06-21T22:45:00.000-07:00

Name: Mark Small

Type of Martial Arts: I practice taijiquan or tai chi chuan as well as hsing I and baguaquan. When combined as in practices of lo he ba fa, the Fu family systems, or Chen Pan Ling's composite forms classical literature refers to them as nei jia ---internal martial arts.
My current teachers, Shou Yu Liang of Vancouver and Chen Yun Ching of the Republic of China have ranked me as a black sash. I'm a 5th generation Yang Family and 1st generation Ling Yun Pai sifu.

Years of Training: over 40 years.

How You Started: I began in the Bruce Lee craze of the 1970's. My first Yang Family style teacher was Master Choy Kam Man of San Francisco who's father, Choy Hok Pang was the first teacher sent by Grandmaster Yang Ching Fu to teach in America. A also trained in Chen Pan Ling's taijiquan in the early 1970's because it had more expressive spiraling energy and martial import. This composite form allowed me a quicker grasp of hsing I and baguaquan. I also practice Sun style and the compulsory 42 forms.

Why this martial art is good: The internal arts of China are well rounded. There is something for everybody. Though popular when practiced for improving health, taiji in particular has a sport application called push hands or tui shou. This amounts to sensitivity training for close range grappling. When used for self-defense or fighting more whole body techniques that include shuai or throwing are used. This is called san shou. Health, sport, and self-defense are graduated plateaus in Chinese philosophy and a well rounded teachers trains and can relate lesson from all three areas.

Advice to Newbies: Beginners who are serious about practice can best learn from a number of teachers and particularly from those that utilize classical principles such as connecting, interpreting, issuing, and returning an opponent or partner's intrinsic energy. Taijiquan, literally known as the "grand ultimate fist", combines straight line with circular movements in sophisticated combinations to respond to the initiative of a partner or opponent, never in a reactive manner. That way you use their weight, balance, and energy to make them feel like they are defeating themselves. Solo form practice compliments partner training. Visualize someone to engage with in front of you during solo form practice. Conversely, when engaging with an opponent move from the empty state known as wuji that comes before the separation of yin and yang in your body. Develop your whole body as your fist (chuan or quan). From Yang Family practices sense a contra-lateral yin and yang separation that links your left side leg with your right side arm and visa versa. Taijiquan always uses two hands and when one part of your body moves subtly and internally, every part of your body moves --- I tung chuan tung. Loosen your joins to do this ---song, as all taiji is gentle or looks effortless to begin with.

From The Pros - Muay Thai

2009-06-21T20:37:00.000-07:00

Name: Kongnapa

Type of Martial Arts: Muay Thai

Rank / Belt: 4 times Rajademnern Stadium Champion (Thailand) & 7 times World Champion (USA)

Years of Training: over 23 years experience

How You Started: Its kind a funny how I started, I was 15 and they have a festival in my hometown and they have a competition in muay thai so I enter and won, friends and families told me its natural for me. so I moved to Bangkok and join Phetnoi Gym, I train with them for 11 years. I won my 1st professional fight while i was training with them, that’s where I got my titles Rajademnern Stadium Champion. I got my world titles here in the US. I also fought for Team Chod Thai (amateur Thai Team for the country of Thailand) where we travel around Asia and compete for the country.

Why this martial art is good:
It is use back in the early times, call Muay Boran, it was taught to all the militaries to use it as a weapon without a weapon, where you only use your hands, legs, knees & elbows. Muay Thai have so many techniques, beside using your limb, you also use speed, eye coordination, & mind to defeat your opponent. Muay Thai is a stand up fight, a fair fight. People around the world are adapting Muay Thai more and more, rather for self defense, fighting in the ring or cardio workout. I think its great for self defense.

Introduction to White Crane Boxing

2009-06-15T20:56:00.000-07:00

There are 2 styles of White Crane Boxing where one is originated from Fujian, southern part of China, known as the Fujian Style of White Crane Boxing, just like Wing Chun, this martial art was founded by Fang Qi Niang, a female martial artist from Fujian. Not like other martial arts where there are focused on all long, medium and close range, this style is designed and focused mostly on close range fighting.

Fang Qi Niang’s Father is a martial artist of the southern martial arts from China, and since young Fang has been studying the martial arts form, it was when Fang saw a crane nearby when she was doing her chores, afraid that the crane might disturb, Fan tries to chase the crane away by using a stick.

No matter how hard she try, she cannot hit the crane, instead the crane counter her attacks. Fang later studied the crane’s movement on dodging and counter attacks and combined with the styles that she has been practicing since young and founded Fujian style White Crane Boxing.

The White Crane Boxing style has a massive influence in other styles of martial arts like the Five Ancestors Fist and Karate that not much of us might know. But if we refer back to the Kata forms like Hakutsuru or Kyusho in Karate, the influence would look quite obvious. It was believed that it was brought into Japan from tea merchants that brought the style in from China to Okinawa.

The original style of White Crane is no longer practiced in modern days like now but it has evolved into 4 main styles over the time, these styles are Sleeping Crane Fist, Crying Crane Fist, Eating Crane Fist and Flying Crane Fist.

Another style of White Crane boxing is originated from Tibet, that was brought into China by Sing Lung, a Tibetan Monk and he taught all his martial art knowledge to two of his main student Wong Lam Hoi and Wang Yan Lam. And the linage was carried down by Wong Lam Hoi.

And Wang Yan Lam who was the eldest of the Ten Tigers of Canton, exchanged knowledge of this White crane style with Master Wong Kei Ying who is the founder of Hong Kuen. and it was later mixed with the Tiger Fist to form Tiger Crane Paired Form Fist and the Five Element techniques.

Tibetan White Crane Boxing was founded by monk Adatou born in 1426 and he was the founder for the Martial Arts called Lion’s Roar. It happened one day during Adatou’s meditation he was distracted when an ape was fighting with a crane when he is in Tibet. And later he founded the style of Tibetan White Crane Boxing and later taught to Monk Sing Lung.

Image taken from: taichikungfulondon.co.uk

Introduction to Judo

2009-06-09T21:42:00.000-07:00

Judo which stands (JU = Gentle) + (DO = Way) was originated from Japan in the 19th century. The reason why it is called the gentle way is because of its feature such as throwing, grappling, locks or executing a choke, not like other martial arts where the focuses on hitting it’s opponent. In Judo it does have Thrusts, Strikes and Weapons and used for Katas but it is not allowed to be used in competition or practices and also Judo uses the opponent's strength, weight and momentum against the opponent itself. As most of the “Non-Judo” practitioner might think that it this art is quite similar to Sambo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu but in fact, Judo is like the grandfather to these arts as these martial arts are developed due to the spread of Judo to worldwide.

The founder Kano Jigoro was a son to a Shinto Priest and government Official, Kano was a student of Jujutsu back in the late 1870s and after mastering the art of Jujutsu Kano start to develop techniques like kata-guruma and uki goshi back in 1880s, and with new ideas on developing the art of self defense Kano went to study his art of evolved jujutsu with a few students in a Buddhist temple which the place is later known as Kodokan. The art at that time was known as Kano Jiu-Do which later changed to Kodokan Jiu-Do and finally known as Judo at this age.

If we were to talk about Judo, besides the founder Kano Jigoro, all of us in Martial Arts Asia gives the highest respect to Keiko Fukada, 9th Dan and it made her the highest ranking women in the Judo World, born in 1913 who is the direct student of Kano Jigoro, the Keiko is still teaching Judo up to date. Yes, there is no typo error here, she should be 96 this year and the coming Judo camp will be on July 24-26, 2009 in San Jose and yet she still still actively teaching Judo.

Judo Primary focus is on nage-waza (throwing) and ne-waza (groundwork), I have listed a simple break down on the list of techniques to help us to understand more on the techniques.

nage-waza (throwing) is divided into 2 categories which is tachi-waza (standing techniques) and sutemi-waza (sacrifice techniques)

1. tachi-waza (standing techniques)
- te-waza (hand techniques)
- koshi-waza (hip techniques)
- ashi-waza (leg techniques)

2. sutemi-waza (sacrifice techniques)
- ma-sutemi-waza (thrower fall backwards)
- yoko-sutemi-waza (thrower fall sideways)

ne-waza (groundwork) is divided into 3 categories

1.kansetsu-waza (attacks against joint locks)
2.shime-waza (strangleholds)
3.osaekomi-waza (pinning techniques)

There are seven official forms of kata that are recognised by the Kodokan:

1. Randori (Free practice)includes of 2 two different kata:
1a. Nage no Kata (Throwing forms)
1b. Katame no Kata (Grappling forms)
2. Kime no Kata (Old style self-defence forms)
3. Kodokan Goshin Jutsu (Modern self-defence forms)
4. Ju no Kata (Forms of "gentleness")
5. Itsutsu no Kata (The five forms)
6. Koshiki no Kata (Ancient forms)
7. Seiryoku Zen'yō Kokumin Taiiku no Kata (National Physical Education kata)

However there are also other katas that is not recognized by Kodokan with other focuses.

Weight Divisions, are to separate both the parties to have a equal advantages over each other, the divisions are as below

Men
Under 60kg
60-66 kg
66-73kg
73-81kg
81-90kg
90-100kg
Over 100kg

Women
Under 48kg
48-52kg
52-57kg
57-63kg
63-70kg
70-78kg
Over 78kg

Judo is firstly seen in the LA Olympics in 1932 where the founder Kano Jigoro and about 200 students gave a demonstration, and Kano passed away before seeing Judo being officially taken in as an Olympic sport in Tokyo Olympics in 1964 for men and in 1988 for women.

For this posting, we would not talk about it’s belt and grading as it varies for different countries, we’ll leave it for another time and we hope you have enjoyed reading so far.

Image taken from: ultimate-judo.com

Introduction to Silat

2009-06-07T19:58:00.000-07:00

Silat began spreading in the seventh century AD but there are no records on its origin. However, it was acknowledged as a Malay Martial Art although there are influences by the Chinese and Indian cultures as well as other ethnic groups. Silat was used as a combat art as well as a folk dance when the Muslim spread through the Malay archipelago in the fourteenth century. It was developed in Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia as an art to liberate themselves from the Colonials such as the Dutch and the British.

In the West Sumatra silat was known as silek and was the oldest men's tradition to perform the Minangkabau folk dance of randai. In Malaysia and Brunei, one form of silat known of silat pulut and silat cakak.

There are many forms of silat such as Pencak, Cekak, Sendeng, Keris Lok and Gayong Fatani and Gayong. It would be quite difficult to list out the official type of silat, as there are at least 150 types of silat but out of these types of silat, Silat Melayu is consider one of the few oldest forms of silat.

Most of the silat schools have few objectives and the most common one is “The art of knowing one self’. Silat consists of 2 forms, the soft and the hard which is also known as Flower (Bunga) and Fruit (Buah). Flower is normally used to confuse the opponent where Fruit is the strike and each schools will have both form applied in their martial arts but it really depends on the amount of the focus.

Image taken from: tuina.com.au

Dojo - Chinese Internal Nie Jia

2009-06-03T02:44:00.000-07:00

Country: USA
Town: Asheville, North Carolina
Kwoon's (Dojo) Name: Lung Shan Taiji / Hsing I / Bagua Gong Fu
Type of Martial Art: Chinese Internal Nie Jia styles
Contact Person: Laoshr Mark Small
Contact Number: 828-285-2929
Email: msmall@main.nc.us
Website: www.main.nc.us/mtndragon

Introduction to Sumo

2009-06-03T02:19:00.000-07:00

Most of us will have this perception that oversized people do not do martial arts but it is not the case. In Sumo it is a battle of strength where one wrestler will attempt to force their opponent to fall or to go out of the dohyo (circular ring). Sumo is a very unique type of martial art where it is one of the few that has rituals before the competition like Muay Thai.

Originated from Japan, this sport is considered as a Modern Martial Art although it has been around for many centuries. Sumo Wrestlers are to stay at the heya (training stables) where the wrestlers have to strictly follow tradition like the dress code, and even the hairdo.

It was back in the Edo Period in Japan that Sumo started as a form of entertainment or for warriors to find an alternative source of income. The official tournament started in Tomioka Hachiman Shrine back in 1684 and the tournament rules has been changing since.

Professional sumo tournament are organized by Oyakata, which is formed by former sumo wrestlers. Oyakata are members of the Japan Sumo Association and Oyakata are the only trainers that are accredited to teach Sumo officially to new wrestlers in their training stables.

There are few levels for Sumo Wrestlers unlike other Martial Artist where they obtain a belt/rank and get to keep it. For sumo, it solely depends on their performance. Even if they reach the top division, the sumo practitioner need to work for it keep the title or they will be downgraded to a lower rank. The thing that interests me most is their salary range. I found this range in wiki. It was shocking but at least you know know how much these big guys earn a month (as of year 2006) excluding the additional income that they can make 6 times a year in the tournaments.

Yokozuna: $24,500 USD / Month
Ōzeki: $20,400 USD / Month
Sanyaku: $14,800 USD / Month
Maegashira: $11,300 USD / Month
Jūryō: $9,000 USD / Month

According to the rules the amateur tournaments are divided into the following weight classes:

Male
Lightweight: Maximum weight of 85 kg
Middleweight: Maximum weight of 115 kg
Heavyweight: Above 115 kg
Open Weight: Unrestricted entry

Female
Lightweight: Maximum weight of 65 kg
Middleweight: Maximum weight of 80 kg
Heavyweight: Above 80 kg
Open Weight: Unrestricted entry

Image taken from: talesfromanopenbook.files.wordpress.com

Introduction to Muay Boran

2009-06-01T09:27:00.002-07:00

Muay Boran or Ancient Boxing is the Great Grandfather of Muay Thai. There are a few styles of Muay Boran developed from the different regions in Thailand. These styles are known as Muay Thasao (Northern Region), Muay Korat (Eastern Region), Muay Lopburi (Central Region) and Muay Chaiya (Southern Region).

Muay Thasao – Emphasis on speed in their kicks and punches.
Muay Korat – Emphasis on the Power of the Blow.
Muay Lopburi– Emphasis on technical movements.
Muay Chaiya– Emphasis on posture and defense. And focus a lot on Knee and Elbow Strikes as the focus are more towards a close body combat.

Surprisingly to say, most of the teachers of Muay Boran are Buddhist monks. It reminds me the comedy called Hot Shots where the main actor was living in a Buddhist Monastery and doing kickboxing and instead of using a glove, they used a cloth to bind their hands to reduce the risk of fracturing bones. Going back further in history, the fighter would dip the binding with resin and broken glass to produce more stunning and deadly blows. These Monasteries or temples held Muay Boran competitions during festive occasions since all Thai man are expected to be ordained as a monk for a short period in their lives.

Traditionally, after completing training in Muay Thai, a student will be taught Muay Boran when reaching an advanced level, but this is no longer the case because most of the moves are banned in professional Muay Thai as it can cause serious damage or even death. In Muay Boran, everything goes and even a kick to the groin is allowed. Therefore there are not many schools that are willing to teach this art of self defense.

Muay Boran techniques focus on the damage each blow can affect the opponent and strongly emphasize using powerful knee and elbow techniques. Each blow to the opponent should be at full force to knock the opponent down on the ground.

Dojo - Ling Yun Pai

2009-06-01T09:27:00.001-07:00

Country: USA
Town: Asheville, North Carolina
Kwoon's (Dojo) Name: Lung Shan Taiji / Hsing I / Bagua Gong Fu
Type of Martial Art: Ling Yun Pai
Contact Person: Laoshr Mark Small
Contact Number: 828-285-2929
Email: msmall@main.nc.us
Website: www.main.nc.us/mtndragon

Nunchaku - Kata

2009-06-01T08:14:00.000-07:00

For Nunchaku users, the art of it’s kata one has to perform the basic techniques that is pre arranged in a sequence movement targeted to hit an imaginary opponent with the nunchaku. The Kata is not only about movement but also about how the practitioner execute it’s movement perfectly with the perfect posture and spirit. Hope the find the above Nunchaku Kata interesting to you…

From The Pros - Chi Gung

2009-05-31T20:09:00.000-07:00

How many types of Chi Gung are there?

Well, as for styles of chi gung (qigong/ ch'i kung) there are thousands, known and unknown, as it is an ancient and diverse art. Basically they all come down to one of the following, or a combination of the following:

1) Chi gung for health maintenance, regeneration and longevity; I call this "Wellness Chi Gung
2) Martial arts chi gung'- this can be sub-divided into the internal (soft, esoteric) styles and the external (hard, exoteric) styles...which exist on a continuum, not in conflict with each other.....so, Hung Gar Kung Fu uses many external martial chi gung methods, but also soft; tai chi chuan uses mostly soft/ inner martial chi gung methods, but can also use hard methods (fighting/sparring isn't always soft!)
3) Spiritual chi gung - these are inner meditative methods to clarify and raise our spirit; also to embrace and learn to embody higher virtues and principles (compassion, wisdom, harmony, balance, confidence, etc...)....it may or may not be religious, that is up to the practitioner...the art of Usui Reiki Ryoho is one of the best and most effective yet simple forms of spiritual chi gung out there, orginating with the great teacher, O-Sensei Mikao Usui...

So, basically, all chi gung methods fall somewhere within one of these categories; some are very comprehensive and complete systems; some are very narrow (like 'medical chi gung')....chi gung can be simply defined as, 'working with the chi/ life-force' the goal being to achieve whatever the intention of the style/ art is....chi gung must always be practiced with respect for all life, never for selfish or negative purposes- dedicate all to the highest good of all...

Classically, in China, chi gung came from and was influenced by these sources: Taoism, Buddhism, Chinese Martial Arts, Chinese Medicine, ancient Chinese Shamanism.

What types of Chi gung are you teaching?

I teach all of these, 'wellness chi gung,' 'martial chi gung (inner and outer, soft/hard),' and 'spiritual chi gung.' My methods come from my 23 yrs. of experience with a very diverse group of teachers, including 17 yrs. full-time with my teacher, as a lineage disciple.

Why is internal chi good for those who practice martial arts?

well, quite simply, there is no getting away from 'internal chi' so if we can learn good methods which will allow us to be in tune with our life-force/ chi and learn how to work with it- not against it- everything we do in life can be enhanced; including our martial arts practice.

Are there any martial arts that use chi?

As I stated in answer to the previous question, there is no getting away from chi! So, yes, all martial arts use chi- everything that lives, breathes, and exists- all creation- is chi of one form or another, constantly and endlessly transforming....now, some martial art styles and traditions/ lineages realized this long ago and have developed methods to work with the life-force/chi in many, many ways....the names of the styles and their reputations are not the real thing- the student needs to find a teacher who has learned these methods and is willing to share them....in this day and age there is no good reason for secrecy, for the vast majority of chi gung methods....see if the teacher exhibits the qualities he/ she is teaching (and keep in mind we are all human, perfect/ ideal standards are hard to reach!), is she/ he healthy? strong voice, good posture, etc....or, can they fight, if it is a martial chi gung art....are they loving, compassionate, and insightful if it is spiritual chi gung?

How does chi gung work?

Well, the exact answer depends on the type of chi gung method/ style it is...but basically what they all have in common is this: as living beings we have life-force (chi, prana, ki, breath of God, mana, etc...); the Cosmos/ Universe is also a creation of life-force, untold and limitless forms of energy....the life-force of the Cosmos and our life-force interact....so, in chi gung we learn methods which are designed around this simple, natural but often-times overlooked fact....it is like the nose on our face, or the fish in water- so completely natural that we forget about it...with good chi gung training we learn to make use of the natural gifts we have been born with, and to maximize them for our health and longevity, and many other purposes, such as: art, business, harmony in family and community, sports, martial arts, and so many others....

What / Where did chi gung originate?

Chi gung actually pre-dates human civilization, going way back to the beginnings of our race....so, the most ancient lands and cultures: China/ Asia; India; the Middle East; Africa, this is where chi gung originated....the Chinese and Indian cultures, being so old and having an unbroken history, is where chi gung and yogic methods were the most highly developed; they then spread outwards everywhere that people went and are....the situation today is quite interesting as all of these methods are blending and new methods are being created at rates never seen before...it is very important that the essential principles and concepts are preserved as this process unfolds....this way the art of chi gung will stay alive and pure, not be diluted into some fake, cheap, and unwholesome imitation...(like McChi Gung!- stay away!)...

Who can I contact if I wish to know more?

There are links on my website to excellent sources of info, see http://www.reikibutterfly.com/. also, I would recommend the book, 'Harnessing the Power of the Universe' by Dr. Daniel Reid, it is a well written, easy to read, and comprehensive introduction to all of these things I have talked about...

Thank you!

Michael S. Fuchs, Sifu
www.reikibutterfly.com
Facebook: Michael s. Fuchs

Introduction to Jodo

2009-05-21T00:54:00.000-07:00

Jodo also known as jojutsu is a type of armed martial arts that uses short staffs called that is called jo which is about 3-5 feet long. This art is focused on Defense especially against sword and not that much on the Attacking side. There are 2 branches of Jodo called Koryu and Seitei Jodo and now this are very famous among Japanese Police and was refered as keijojutsu (police stick art)

Jojutsu is an exclusive martial art of the Kuroda Clan until the early 1900s, then the art was taught to the general public. It started back to the late 16th Century, where assassination and murder is common in Japan at that time. The Founder Muso Gonnosuke was a warrior who had trained in several Martial Arts school as well as a Shinto Priest training in bojutsu or the art of long staff. Gonnosuke is also a legend that is always compared to Miyamoto Musashi (also known as Sword Saint) as both are undefeated in battlefield.

Gonnosuke is believed to challenge Musashi twice which he won the challenge the 2nd time after Gonnosuke took up concepts from spear, halberd, staff and sword he developed what eventually became known as today’s JoJutsu. After Gonnosuke won the match against Musashi his reputation grew overnight and started to teach his art of Jodo. It is also where further refinements came and over the centuries his students added in other weapons and forms to form a complete school of combat.

Image taken from: hugin.demon.co.uk

From The Pros - Taijutsu

2009-05-21T00:51:00.001-07:00

Name: Graham Clunan

Type of martial arts: currently studying Bujinkan Budo Ninpo Taijutsu, (other arts I've played with include, Karate, taekwondo, jujutsu, aiki-jujutsu, muay thai, taichi, etc.....)

Rank: Shidoshi

Years of training: In the Bujinkan 16 years, in total officially 23 years (unofficially its 28.)

How did you start: it started with family members who did Karate teaching and training me at home because i was officially too young to join a Dojo, when i was old enough i joined a Karate Dojo and it went on from there, i tried a few other arts while continuing to train in and progressing very well in Karate until i was invited to the Ninjutsu Dojo my friends had joined. My first lesson changed my outlook on everything i had previously learn't, as i continued to train i had major personal conflicts between the training and naturally began using my newly learn't Taijutsu instead of the drilled and conditioned 'Style' i had been doing all my life. i made a decision and left all my other martial arts.i still cross train now and again, but my outlook is now from a Bujinkan/Budo point of view, so really i guess i don't actually train in anything else anymore! a butterfly can't become a caterpillar once its changed!

Why you think this art is good: This art is so diverse, We use the bodies natural movement, we don't have rules and if we do we usually break them!, if there ever was a box we think out side of it, when you think you've learn't something from this art...another facet emerges!

Advices for newbies: Don't take advice from anybody, Don't trust anybody who says this Martial art is better than that art, do a martial art that works for you and that you enjoy!

I don't claim to be a pro, I'd be very cautious of any instructor who does.

From a Ninjutsu point of view, be careful with what information is being bounced around, especially on the Internet as a lot of it is incorrect and misleading.

Questions are good, question everything, cross reference things from reliable sources, ask your instructor, senior grades from other Dojo, if still in doubt- directly from the Honbu.

Find a good instructor who is also a student, a teacher who never learns shouldn't be teaching. they should "go to the source" (i.e. train in Japan regularly, trains and shares information with people who go to Japan regularly ,etc)

Budo is all martial arts, but not all martial arts are Budo.