The Misrepresentation of Martial Arts by Michael Aloia

Traditionally, within the context of modern times, martial arts have served as a way for the everyday person to participate in what's considered an ethnically and culture-based – even stylized – form or system of self-empowerment. The benefits have always included a level of better fitness, health, and well-being to physically and mentally live fuller … Continue reading The Misrepresentation of Martial Arts by Michael Aloia

Martial Arts and Conducting Oral History

What is oral history? In the most literal sense, it is a narrative, or parts of a narrative, that is never written down but passed onto the next generation through the spoken word. For the oral historian, it is their job (and part of my job too) to track down certain people and essentially archive … Continue reading Martial Arts and Conducting Oral History

Can a Martial Art Evolve Past Its Origins? By Michael Aloia

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

Interview with Tambuli Media Founder Mark Wiley: Publishing Martial Art and Wellness Books Today

Mark Wiley began Tambuli Media with the purpose of providing the public with mind-body practices, including martial arts. Additionally, he has spent many years in the martial arts, authoring fifteen books, including five on Filipino martial arts. Today, Wiley took some time to talk about Tambuli Media and the publishing house’s first feature film, Made … Continue reading Interview with Tambuli Media Founder Mark Wiley: Publishing Martial Art and Wellness Books Today

Interview with Martial Arts Historian Joseph Svinth: Martial History and EJMAS

Joseph Svinth began studying African and Middle Eastern history. He joined the Electronic Journal of Martial Arts and Sciences (EJMAS) as a writer and editor. In 2003, he released Getting a Grip, focusing on judo in the Japanese American communities of the Pacific Northwest. Similarly, Svinth worked with Martial Arts Studies proponent Thomas A. Green … Continue reading Interview with Martial Arts Historian Joseph Svinth: Martial History and EJMAS