Border Patrol

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Listening is about allowing the information to get into your head in which you can then process the information.  In the martial arts we are trained to absorb information because we want to learn as much as possible but, sometimes, we just don’t want to step out of our comfort zones to do that.  Over the years martial artists have tried to resist the temptation or consideration in cross training (Kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Reality Based Self Defence) probably because most people are just happy doing what they’re doing or not interested in doing a little bit extra.   

If martial artists are interested in the reality aspect of martial arts then there should be no borders in training which means stepping out of the circle but they may not like or appreciate components of other martial arts at first.  They’re like an acquired taste and you have to give it time before making long term decisions in other aspects of training. 

Most systems/organisations have their ‘core business’, ie karate, hapkido, tae kwon do and are absolutely fantastic with what they offer and teach.  I like to think of our school like Europe where you no longer need a visa to cross borders.  I remember the days (over 35 years ago as a white belt) when I used to get into a back stance with a knife hand block and challenge anyone.  I didn’t really know what I was going to do but I was so confident that nobody would dare have a go at me.   The mystical days are long gone and today I like to make sure I cover all bases in my martial arts training.   

I take my hat off to people who specialize in one style because it takes hard work and a very long time to become good at the one thing.  I became very good at the one thing but it was not until 20 years ago I decided to cross train.  I have been crossing the border, since.
GA

Then it Dawned on Me

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Jiu Jitsu, particularly BJJ./MMA, is quite in depth because of the numeorus steps required to complete techniques.  If any of these steps are missing, it's no different to leaving a part out of a motor – it will probably not work at all.  We’ve all experienced it.

I am a student in a sense and I am no different to anybody else learning.  I have to be shown things, over and over, and practice to get them right.  Quite often, getting it right the first time doesn’t always work out for me so don't despair if the same goes if you're a student.  Usually, it takes several persons to show me, in their own little way, before I get a good grasp and complete understanding of the techniques.  As an Instructor I don't settle for anything less than 100%.  That's the difference between an experienced martial artist like myself and a brand new student in BJJ.

It's much more exciting to conquer the ones I'm having difficulty with rather the ones I get right the first time.  Recently, I was shown a particular technique (advanced armbar) which was taught to me by a visiting BJJ master from Brazil. I really enjoyed the private seminar and got a lot of out of it but something did not feel right just yet.  A workout with Shihan Richard Norton, in Sydney recently, almost hit a home run.  I said to him, "Something you just said now, I now realise what I have to do."  Then the other evening, I attended a junior BJJ class before the senior session; with everybody wondering what I was doing there.  A purple belt, taking the class, was explaining that technique in his particular way and then it dawned on me.  It was something he said which solved the final piece of the puzzle.  Technique now 99% good (no such thing as 100%).  

Usually, I like to talk quietly, through the moves, with my training partner.  By uttering words I'm more conscious about what I'm doing.  This is the same thing I do as an Instructor when I explain techniques to the students; this really helps me understand better.  It's an absolutely amazing process!  It's not a bad thing if students talk to each other in that sense but Instructors need to ensure the conversation does not divert from the subject.

People have different ways of capturing information and it may before it dawns on them which is why it's good to have a different Instructor in front of the class every so often.  

On another subject, I really like Mr John Will's last blog, GIVE CREDIT WHERE CREDIT IS DUE. What a 'blog job'!  Basically, it's based on years of friendship earning credit so that when a problem arises, there's enough credit to let the problem slide.   I take things a step further, I give some people opportunities to apply for personal loans.
GA  

Painkillers

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Emotional Acclimatization: This is something I’ve heard a few times at Shihan Richard’s seminars.  This is not new and it refers to 'overcoming emotional infringements arising from a stressful event which is important for vital activity' (straight from the text book).  Martial artists and other people with life experiences will fully understand this.  To give a couple of examples, the experienced doorman is far less emotional, than the average person, when dealing with confrontations, and an experienced prize fighter doesn't become overly concerned of being hit because of adaptation to the pain.

It’s quite common to feel the stress when first competing in tournaments.  In my early days of competition I eventually learned to adapt to this type of environment; there would be days where I would turn up to a tournament, after a night shift, and would have a nap until somebody would come and wake me up when it was my turn to fight.  You also learn to take pain; after a couple of full contact fights I never really got worried about getting hit. 

What’s equally important is emotionally adapting to real life self defence situations.  If you have to defend yourself for the very first time, expect emotions to escalate, which are likely to cause an unprecedented adrenal dump, resulting in considerable decrease in gross motor skills.  It won’t matter how many techniques you know because these will be difficult to recall if you're not emotionally acclimatized.  Those who disagree should think of a time where they may have over-reacted in a silly traffic incident with another motorist; this is why normal people can end up in road rages because they become too emotional and don’t know what they're doing at the time.  

We can usually choose our own environments which minimises the chances of getting into trouble but there are those who have no choice through necessity in their work, like I have!  It got to the stage, if I got into a fight, my attitude was 'I might as well enjoy it since there was nothing I can do about it at the time, but do, whatever it took me, to do the job; that was my way of overcoming fear.

Emotional acclimatization does not come in pill form, however, there is a remedy.  Remember, how painful was that first shin kick to your leg?  After a few of them, it’s not too bad.  You learn to adapt to the pain with repetition.  I am not suggesting self harm so please don't try and get the better half of a baseball bat.  What students need to do is experience emotions under controlled conditions so acclimitization can go to work.  It's OK to be man-handled by your Instructor (for the right reasons) or take a few good hits, at least you won't freak out if it ever happens to you in a real situation. This is much needed in the reality based component of the martial arts but the student must want this type of training and understand the way it should be administered.

By the way, don't stress out all over this.  Just keep in mind something which may appear bad might actually be good for you.
GA

In Business Making People Feel Happy!

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Every now and then I run into old students especially kids who have grown up and they greet me with a bow and call me, Sir.  It's inspirational to know they still have respect, so I must be doing something right.  Just the other day, a student (in his '30s) who used to train in the ACT over 3 years ago (now lives in Perth), has contacted me via the 'on line enquiry'.  He has not been able to find a school despite recommending him some very good Insctructors:

Marc: Would like to know if Budoshinkai will ever be part of Western Australia?
Reply: It will depend if any of our Black Belts decide to live there and open up a school.  I believe you are the Marc that used to train with Damien (ACT).
Marc: Thank you for the reply.  I hope, one day, someone will!  I absolutely love what you teach and what I've been taught from Damien.  And yes, it is Marc that trained with Damien.

Thanks, Marc, for your wonderful comments.  I wish I could help you because you are the type of person we want around.  You are fussy, though.  Maybe, it might be easier to move to back to the ACT.

I get a lot of that and I believe other Instructors do, too.  One of my first 2nd Dan Black Belts, of the late '80's, called me recently.  He just wanted to let me know there was nobody else out there like the way I taught classes!  I was thinking what I used to teach then was based on my knowledge of that time.  Now, I do it differently because what what I teach now is still based on my knowledge, the difference being, I have more to offer! 

The martial arts has really advanced over the years.  Richard and I once discussed 'wouldn't it be great to be have been taught all the things we now know, back then; we'd be so much better'.

Just to let a few people know the residual pain from my back injury has just about disappeared.  I am starting to cause a little grief to some people on the mats and those who are in the leather exchange trade.  My Police Commander was astonished when he found out I am back pushing heavy inanimate objects.  Mr John Will caught me by surprise when he was advising me on particular techniques until I realised he thought I was still nursing my back.  I said, 'no more back injury', his reply, 'GREAT'.  There's two more people I made happy!  It will be good catching up with Mr John Will (the blog master) in Sydney this week.  To quote, John, 'you are an exceptionally good writer', he loves reading my blogs!  Many thanks, Mr Will, I love your blogs, too!

One more item: Shihan Richard Norton is in the States, once again, catching up with other friends and doing a bit of training.  Hope not for long!  I wonder whether it has anything to do with our challenge (lol)!
GA

I Do!

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Last night I was at a wedding at one of our Black Belts, Daniel Matos, who has been with us since the age of 10 years old.  It was in Darling Harbour with the best views in the world and my wife and I were sitting with Daniel's father, Victor (and his wife) who is one of our senior Black Belts; we were very honoured to sit next to them because he said I am one of his best friends.  Same goes here.

My kids, Jonathan and Marcia, both Black Belts, not sitting far away with Dr Chris and his partner.  A bit like a Budoshinkai get together.  People develop habits seeing each other as a result of family, friendship, work or common interest.

I have found one of the best things in the martial arts is the people you meet and get to know.  Ultimately, over the years, you end up being best friends and you couldn't imagine losing that friendship.  My friends, outside the martial arts, cannot understand that and they never will!

I asked Maria how did she feel losing her son but she answered she wasn't losing a son but gaining a daughter (good come back).

When Daniel was making his speech my memories at the time were of Victor bringing him to my school for the first time.  Outside school, Victor and I would regularly meet up, with both our sons, for coffee or lunch. Now, Daniel and Jonathan are grown up gentlemen.  I am looking forward to our other young students reaching adulthood.  Thank you, Daniel and Tamara, for the invitation.  It was an absolutely sensational night. 

The couple was extremely happy but I think the father was even happier.
GA

I’m all Ears

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How does an Instructor get students to listen to them?  Every Instructor has different ways which is an important part of teaching.  There is no one way to do this because it will depend on the school’s culture, the different age groups, the level of understanding within the groups and individuals. 

Teaching can be frustrating for both the Teacher and student because lack of connection.  If it’s not happening, the Instructor may need to take it back a couple of notches by simplifying the tasks so everybody gets something out of the session.  It is a case of not too much and not too little in order to maximise productivity.

Nothing wrong with doing the basics (bread and butter stuff), we have to always go back there at some stage of the game.  Basic training – good for the junior ranks, and even greater for the advanced students, who view the techniques from a different perspective because of their developed attitudes and experiences. 

How do you know the students are listening?  Good response to commands and counts, regular eye contact with the Instructor and they are doing what they are actually being asked.  Success should be particularly measured by any improvement of the mediocre performers, not by the exceptional few who always do well.

How well the students listen is also dependent on the Instructor's ability to communicate and their skill level in captivating the audience's attention.  But that's probably another blog. 
GA

Where are you, Sir?

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Glad to hear some people have missed me over the last 3 Saturdays (just for the record, I was there on the Wednesdays).  They didn't go to waste!  One Saturday was for the World Martial Arts Games and to support representatives from our school, the other Saturday with Budoshinkai students in Canberra and the recent Saturday to conduct a 3rd Dan Black Belt Karate grading at another school.  I don't take time off for R & R if I know work has to be done. 

We are quite fortunate to have more than one Instructor at any one of our Sydney schools.  I remember the days when it was a 'one man show'.  Our students are never left in the lurch because there is always an Instructor(s) available.  Victor and I can always rely on John & Timothy Ellis and I should also mention the valuable help we get from Dr Chris and Jonathan Adams. 

Our other Black Belts, in particular, Herbert Tomaschett and Feras Suwan, are also reliable, dedicated and always willing to help out.  These are the people who form part of the family.  Other dedicated Instructors include, Darren Grieve and Dean Taylor in Qld, and in the ACT, Damien Philpott.  Everybody works hard to get students to where they want to be. 

In a nutshell, if an Instructor is not at the school it's not because they don't want to be.  Just thought I'd acknowledge the great work every Instructor and Black Belt do for the schools and students.
GA

K-mart Specials!

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The ultimate goal for any martial arts student has to be getting the black belt.  When a student may lose motivation and feel 'it's quitting time', any excuse will do to justify it (it may be a disguise for failure).  Sure, there are those who feel martial arts might not be for them in the long term, and that is OK, but there are many who may regret.  I've taught over 1500 students so I have seen this many times.

The 'quitters' usually return to the scene, some time later because the motivation returns.  Unfortunately, these people quit again because of not being able to settle in and not finding it easy to pick up again from where they last left off.

Time is a common excuse and it really is up to the individual to decide what to do with their time.  Maybe, if they look at the Instructor's schedule people might not think they have it bad after all. 

When I first started training in traditional Karate (Budokan) with 20 other white belts, I was the only one who stayed and got my black belt.  A few yeas later, a new student approached me and said he started training the same time I did as a white belt.  He went on to say he was astonished I was a Black Belt and if he stayed he could've been also wearing a black belt.  I never saw him again! 

If anything, stay on to keep fit.  Why would you even bother going to general fitness classes (because the weighing scales are lying to you again) when you know it will only be a matter of time you will get bored and quit. 

It's true, not everybody makes it to Black Belt!  Only, the ones who want to, will.  These are the special kind of people. 

Don't be a K-mart special – 'here today, gone tomorrow'.
GA

Jammed Packed Weekend

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Returned from the ACT after a 3 day weekend training with Shihan Richard Norton.  Seminars included Reality Based Self Defence, MMA and 2 sessions of BJJ which were hosted by our ACT representative, Damien Philpott.  John and Timothy Ellis also attended, and from Qld, Darren Grieve, Dean Taylor and Lee Bird.  My body is a little sore and my mind is jammed packed with new information.  I need a few days for the computer chip in my head to process all this. 

The seminars saw many new faces on the scene.  Shihan Richard did a splendid job as always.  It is really impressive to see him perform whether on the ground or stand-up.  Now I know why Mr John Will says he is the best all round martial artist in the world – there is no doubt about it.  I also have to give Richard points for trying to be the best stand-up comedian in the world (maybe I can get him a gig on Red Faces in ‘Hey, Hey, It’s Saturday’).

It was a fantastic weekend.  It was all about martial arts, training, getting together with friends and making new ones.  Now that I'm back home, I’ll get stuck into the weights in the morning and into the martial arts in the evening.  I’ve already had a break; 3 hours drive back from Canberra was enough.
GA

Let the Games Begin!

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My weekend started MMA seminar with locals & visitorsoff Thursday morning by picking up my buddy, Richard Norton, from the Airport.  We went straight to the PCYC (police citizens youth club) where we got on the mats including Dr Chris for about 3 hours.  Then off to Jordan Micakovski’s school at Austral for a BBQ with overseas visitors here for the World Martial Arts Games.  That evening an MMA seminar (a mixture of Kickboxing & BJJ ) for about two and a half hours.  The next morning, another 3 hours of BJJ with Richard.  It was great to see Steve Micakovski get on the mats with us; great skills!

The showdown between Richard and I, did take place but he pinned me down and gave me a few slaps in the face but I claimed ‘unfair play’.  Richard came back with a beauty, “Why, because I didn’t have my hands and legs tied up?”  That’s exactly what I had in mind; Richard and Chuck Norris did the same thing to Carlos Machado!  Very funny, Mr Norton, but you know, this is not over yet! 

Seriously, I had a great time, training with Richard and learning so much from him.  I wonder how he crams so much in his head.  I’ve really improved on my techniques resulting in my ability to survive a little longer when getting on the floor.  I am very fortunate because I am getting the full deal ie BJJ, MMA, Kickboxing, Reality Based Self Defence etc.  Australia is very fortunate to have him. 

Today was the first day of the Games.  The World's got talent in the martial arts; Richard and I were quite impressed. Tomorrow is the second day of the World Games.
GA