To meld is to blend or combine two or more things. In martial arts, it is now referred to as Mixed Martial Arts. In days past, cross training was regarded as a way to train and gain knowledge from various styles at one time, though the idea of blending multiple styles together was often frowned … Continue reading Martial Melding: Finding the Similarities
The Japanese martial arts, for the most part, adhere and follow the overarching philosophy of budo. Budo, or Martial Way, strives to develop the practitioner into a polite, courteous, and productive member of society. Traditionally and within this budo philosophy, many instructors place their students through the rote practice of mental, physical, and spiritual techniques … Continue reading Budo and Experimentation
It is not uncommon to hear the sentiment expressed, "training for the sake of tradition." Such a comment is often professed when there may not be a clear-cut answer or reason as to why things are as they are. More often, in response to a question from a student as to why we are doing … Continue reading Does Tradition Create An Obstacle and Prevent An Art From Growing? By Michael Aloia
The following editorial was submitted by George Kibry. It was originally appeared in the August 2008 issue of his monthly newsletter, Kokoro. I frequently get questions from students about their jujitsu uniforms. Sometimes I can give them accurate factual answers. However, sometimes answers are based upon historical lore rather than facts. Sometimes the answers are … Continue reading Ancient Martial Arts Wisdom? by George Kirby
The short answer would seem to be a simple yes. And on many levels, this is entirely true. Once an art form passes from teacher to student, in its most basic application, it has evolved past its origins. Additionally, once that art form begins to move around and relocate, it has evolved past its origins. Obviously … Continue reading Can a Martial Art Evolve Past Its Origins? By Michael Aloia
Just by way of introduction for those who do not know me and question my privilege to an opinion on this subject: after four years of judo, I started aikido in 1962, with Ueshiba Kisshomaru, Tohei Koichi, and Takahshi Isao Senseis. From early 1967, while O-Sensei was still alive, I trained at Hombu until his death. I … Continue reading Aikido Now by Walther von Krenner
The following are remembrance pieces from a handful of J. Donald Burrier's students. Some were there from the beginning; others were there near the end. The individual's starting time does not hinder the effect and influence Burrier had on them and how they moved forward in life and martial arts. Images provided by Irvin Gill. … Continue reading Martial Arts Making a Difference: Kenpo Karate’s J. Donald Burrier
The following editorial was submitted by George Kirby. It originally appeared in the August 2005 issue of his monthly newsletter, Kokoro. Finding and retaining uke can be a serious problem for everyone who really wants to learn a martial art. Regardless of art you ultimately need a workout partner. Getting an uke, especially on a … Continue reading Finding an Uke: It’s Not What You Do, But How You Do by It? by George Kirby
The Japanese have a special word to describe the bitter taste one experiences after biting into an unripe persimmon. This taste is called Shibui, and has a meaning, something far beyond taste. Shibui sometimes translated as rustic simplicity or austere elegance. Shibui has long been associated with an intimate understanding of the truth and beauty … Continue reading Shibui by Walther von Krenner
Cross training. A word that has become more and more popular since the 1990s, but something that has been happening for centuries. Sometimes, instructors are alright with their students doing so, others, not so much. If one goes to a martial arts’ social media enclave, they will find that many practitioners are training in multiple … Continue reading Some Thoughts on Cross Training
Martial Arts of Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow 