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That?s right; creativity and innovation are two words that are closely connected to your school?s future profitability ?and to your personal sanity. To create a unique niche in your community ?a unique selling proposition for your business ?that keeps you far ahead of your competitors, you need to apply creativity to your methods and innovate like a man or woman-on-a-mission. To stay sane in a industry-gone-mad and to keep your wits about you through the mind-numbing repetitive nature of both the material and those damned business seminars the guys in the suits keep jamming down our collective throats, you have to be black-belt-creative and ingeniously-innovative.
Want some help in revving up your creative engines? May I start the process by pointing out an example of what I?m writing about? Good. Allow me to introduce you to the UBBT. Afterwards, since I made mention of ?sanity,? I?m going to offer my opinion about the martial arts industry in general ?and why I think the UK and Europe may very well be ahead ?not behind --of the U.S. when it comes to the business of the martial arts.
The Ultimate Black Belt Test (UBBT)
The UBBT is way, way out in left field. It?s almost a complete redesign of the what, where, how, when, and why of black belt testing ?and it?s not meant only for black belts, it?s meant to crack the ice on all levels of belt testing, as I think there?s a lot of room for improvement in everything to do with martial arts training, intent, mission, and method. The program?s chock full of innovative new ideas; here are few you may find interesting (a partial list):
1. Belt testing should transpire over a longer period of time. Instead of taking a belt test on a given day, a student could take a test everyday for a month ?or, preferably, longer. Instead of an instructor pointing to a well done kata, he or she now tells the story of the 500 repetitions of the kata the student did to achieve his or her rank. The story is now the journey ?instead of the destination.
Embrace the idea that your test is today! Every day! Why wait to peak? Why wait for some date in the future to live with absolute intensity and passion and drive and awareness? For that matter, why isn?t today as meaningful or important or vital as the day you test for your black belt? That?s the new concept ?and one you can embrace and implement, like, now!
2. Accomplishments are meant to be quantified. Students do hundreds and sometimes thousands of repetitive behaviors and techniques as a part their training and testing process. Why not take credit for the reps? Why not make a certain number of reps a requirement? If a student did a kata five times a day for 90 days, that would be 450 repetitions! Why not make 450 reps of a kata a requirement for testing? Why not give the student a journal to record their reps, something they can also use to document the journey they take --as they labor to learn the lessons that practice so willingly instructs them in?
Participants in the UBBT do 50,000 push-ups and 1000 reps of a single kata as a part of their test. Which, at first glance sounds like a lot, but ends up being just 150 push ups a day and three measly reps of a kata a day for a year. No big deal! But hey, 50,000 and 1000 reps of a kata --bragging rights! But beyond the physical attainment of it, do you know what this teaches the average student about accomplishment? It teaches them the power of incremental steps toward big, big goals. Why not quantify your student?s accomplishments? It?s an idea whose time has come.
3. Half to two-thirds of a student?s belt testing requirements should occur outside of your school. If you?re requiring your students to quantify their training as a part of their test, then why not bring other behaviors ?outside of your dojo --into the process too? Five ?acts of kindness? a day adds up to 450 in 90 days. What if you required 100 home-chores between tests for kids under 18-years of age? Parents would love you. If you required ?ten personal victories? (another UBBT requirement) for adults, or any number for that matter that would be practical between belt tests, imagine what accomplishments you could take partial credit for.
4. Journaling is the bomb. If you visit the UBBT website and visit the JOURNAL pages. There are currently more than 3000 journal entries made by participants in this project. This is how people have gotten to know each other. This is how people who aren?t in the test have been able to follow the progress and journey of participants. This is how the media has kept an eye on the test.
The new viewpoint of the testing process, and for that matter martial arts school membership in general, is that your students aren?t signing up for a course or a membership or a class ?they?re on a heroic journey. The hero?s journey, as described by author Joseph Campbell, is The Exodus, The Epiphany, and The Return. Haven?t read Joseph Campbell? Time to hit the book store.
What would happen if your black belt candidates each made an on-line journal entry once a week, for six-months to a year prior to their black belt test? How many of their classmates or co-workers would read them? It?s the perfect way to pull all sorts of people into the testing process, by sharing the experience with them. Before this journaling process began in the UBBT, a lot of family, friends, classmates, and co-workers were left in the dark about what a black belt candidate goes thru when preparing for a test. Not any more! And another bonus to journaling; after their year of training, many of the UBBT participants have expressed appreciation for being left with an entire year of their life documented in weekly ?and sometimes daily ?journal entries.
The UBBT?s website details many other creative concepts for belt testing (and subsequently training, teaching, and school promotion). My recommendation is to study it carefully ?with an open mind. While you may not embrace every aspect of the program, there are many concepts in it you can use to improve your testing process and your school. Oh, and did I mention, all these ideas are free!
My next UBBT is going to feature 30 black belts from around the world, armed with 30 video cameras. We?ll be filming our training for a whole year ?and creating a documentary film with an Academy Award winning documentary filmmaker. Sweet!
My Opinion about the Martial Arts Industry and Martial Arts in the U.K.
Well, let me try to put this delicately, without stepping on anyone?s toes: I think the martial arts business world ought to get its butt kicked, without mercy. Of course, I?m speaking figuratively, as I?m a non-violent type, but really ?this industry is in need of a good thrashing. We?ve got masters who are anything but, over-controlling associations; un-sustainable and unhealthy business methods; inadequate instructor education; unreasonably high student attrition; and an emphasis on contract amount, gross income, and money that?s completely out-of-balance with any sort of emotional or spiritual ?martial arts? development. In my opinion, as an industry, we promise a boat load of benefits, but more often that not we end up delivering a thimble full of our potential.
There?s no better example of what?s wrong with the martial arts industry than taking any popular martial arts publication and opening it side-by-side with any popular yoga magazine. In one, every article discusses some aspect of spirituality and consciousness training, in the other the word ?spiritual? is, for the most part, non-existent. What happened to us? How did we let the yoga industry steal our unique selling proposition? Since when did yoga capture the market on spiritual and emotional growth? And when did the martial arts world become all about cage-fighting, physical techniques and/or ways to throw birthday parties, run after-school programs, and upgrade students to ?leadership courses??
I have often heard it said that schools in the UK are 10 to 20 years behind schools in the U.S. Well, that?s just not true. Why don?t you all just skip the crass commercialism, skip the stupidity of high-pressure sales, skip the cheesy promotional ideas, skip the lame collection policies, and skip the great American pastime of chasing the dollar and thinking that bigger is always better. We don?t, in general, know how to do it over here in the States and better that any other country. What puts you ahead of the game is that you can learn from our mistakes --and then you won?t have to go through this demeaning period of selling out for profit that?s causing more than a good deal of damage to our image. In fact, many of us are rapidly moving away from the ?business? aspects of school management and seeking, once again, to find a kind of mastery and enlightenment in our martial arts journey.
The systems and the business of our industry are important and essential, as is brushing one?s teeth. You have to brush your teeth to stay healthy; but we all know that we don?t LIVE to clean our teeth. We live for purpose and meaning and intent and passion.
I would like to suggest that you skip a lot of the martial arts industry?s standard methods of operation, even if they seem attractive at first glance, and use your creativity to craft methods that you feel are sound. Go with your gut instincts, not necessarily what?s working for some bloke in a suit half-way around the world. If you innovate now, instead of following the pack, I predict it wouldn?t be long before folks in the States are coming to your seminars to learn the art of martial arts business.
Interview with Tom Callos taken from martial arts school owner magazine.
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About the Author:
Lee Mainprize is the creator of http://www.mainstructor.com a martial arts instructor and teachers resource for martial arts marketing and business growth. Article Tags: martial, arts, belt
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Recommended mixed-martial-art Items
Rush Hour (Special Edition)
Rush Hour (Special Edition)
The plotline may sound familiar: Two mismatched cops are assigned as reluctant partners to solve a crime. Culturally they are complete opposites, and they quickly realize they can't stand each other. One (Jackie Chan) believes in doing things by the book. He is a man with integrity and nerves of steel. The other (Chris Tucker) is an amiable rebel who can't stand authority figures. He's a man who has to do everything on his own, much to the displeasure of his superior officer, who in turn thinks this cop is a loose cannon but tolerates him because he gets the job done. Directed by Brett Ratner, Rush Hour doesn't break any new ground in terms of story, stunts, or direction. It rehashes just about every "buddy" movie ever made--in fact, it makes films such as Tango and Cash seem utterly original and clever by comparison. So, why did this uninspired movie make over $120 million at the box office? Was the whole world suffering from temporary insanity? Hardly. The explanation for the success of Rush Hour is quite simple: chemistry. The casting of veteran action maestro Jackie Chan with the charming and often hilarious Chris Tucker was a serendipitous stroke of genius. Fans of Jackie Chan may be slightly disappointed by the lack of action set pieces that emphasize his kung-fu craft. On the other hand, those who know the history of this seasoned Hong Kong actor will be able to appreciate that Rush Hour was the mainstream breakthrough that Chan had deserved for years. Coupled with the charismatic scene-stealer Tucker, Chan gets to flex his comic muscles to great effect. From their first scenes together to the trademark Chan outtakes during the end credits, their ability to play off of one another is a joy to behold, and this mischievous interaction is what saves the film from slipping into the depths of pitiful mediocrity. --Jeremy Storey
Rush Hour 2 (Special Edition)
Rush Hour 2 (Special Edition)
Rush Hour 2 retains the appeal of its popular predecessor, so it's easily recommended to fans of its returning stars, Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan. The action--and there's plenty of it--starts in Hong Kong, where Detective Lee (Chan) and his L.A. counterpart Detective Carter (Tucker) are attempting a vacation, only to get assigned to sleuth a counterfeiting scheme involving a triad kingpin (John Lone), his lethal henchwoman (Zhang Ziyi, from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon), and an American billionaire (Alan King). Director Brett Ratner simply lets his stars strut their stuff, so it hardly matters that the plot is disposable, or that his direction is so bland he could've phoned it in from a Jacuzzi.
At its best, Rush Hour 2 compares favorably to Chan's glossiest Hong Kong hits, and when the action moves to Las Vegas (where Don Cheadle makes an unbilled cameo), the movie goes into high-pitched hyperdrive, riding an easy wave of ambitious stuntwork and broad, derivative humor. Echoes of Beverly Hills Cop are too loud, however, and stale ideas (including a comedic highlight for Jeremy Piven as a gay clothier) are made even more aggravating by dialogue that's almost Neanderthal in its embrace of retro-racial stereotypes. Of course, that's what makes Rush Hour 2 a palatable dish of mainstream comedy; it insults and comforts the viewer at the same time, and while some may find Tucker's relentless hamming unbearable, those who enjoyed Rush Hour are sure to appreciate another dose of Chan-Tucker lunacy. --Jeff Shannon
Marvel Universe Ninja Iceman 10" Fully Poseable Action Figure
Marvel Universe Ninja Iceman 10" Fully Poseable Action Figure
Produced in 1997.
Martial Arts Champ Child - M
Martial Arts Champ Child - M
Martial Arts He-Man, Not Mint
Martial Arts He-Man, Not Mint
From Masters of The Universe, the Martial Arts He-Man figure. Awesome sticker included! Figure includes: Power Sword, Battle Ax, Nunchuk, Weapon Staff and Weapon Storage Holster.
Thank God I Had a Gun: True Accounts of Self-Defense
Thank God I Had a Gun: True Accounts of Self-Defense
This collection of true stories examines incidents involving the use of firearms by ordinary citizens for personal protection against criminals. Three basic types of events are discussed: armed defense at home, at work, and in a public place. Each episode is explored in detail, with a look at the citizen involved as well as how their defensive actions aided them or could be improved. From convenience-store robberies to police arrests gone awry, these stories provide memorable reminders of firearm self-defense dos and don'ts.
Speed Training : How to Develop Your Maximum Speed for Martial Arts
Speed Training : How to Develop Your Maximum Speed for Martial Arts
Speed is the most important asset a fighter can have. Find out from a top martial artist and police officer how to develop instantaneous reflexes and explosive speed for punching, kicking, grappling and police defensive tactics. Improve perception, polish timing and double your speed by using these sure-fire techniques.
Step-By-Step Tai Chi
Step-By-Step Tai Chi
TONE YOUR BODY, RELAX YOUR MIND
Whatever your level of fitness, Step-by-Step Tai Chi offers a simple but effective program of exercise and stress reduction, based on the ancient Chinese art of Tai Chi. In addition to learning the fundamentals of Tai Chi through his carefully designed four-level program, Master Lam Kam Chuen will introduce you to Small Circle Form Tai Chi, an original method he has developed -- based on classical Tai Chi styles -- requiring a minimum of time and space. Step-by-Step Tai Chi features: * Detailed and easy-to-follow instruction for the basic movements of Tai Chi, plus Small Circle Form, complete with color illustrations that will guide you through every movement * Specially selected exercises to help you build up strength, flexibility, and stamina in the muscles and joints of your upper and lower body * Simple routines that you can perform in half an hour or less, with no previous experience, special clothing, or equipment required * An ideal foundation if you wish to study advanced forms of Tai Chi Whether you are looking for a way to reduce stress or a new way to exercise, Step-by-Step Tai Chi will keep you fit -- inside and out.
News about mixed-martial-art
‘The Beast’ to make trip to Afghanistan; plans 8-10 bout - Coldwater Daily Reporter
Mon, 11 Aug 2008 04:00:50 GMT
Labels: african-martial-arts | martial-arts-association | martial-arts-magazine
  
Most of the matter here is relevant to martial-art-supplies. This was the main intention of writing on martial-art-supplies, to propagate its value and meaning.
Another Great martial-art-supplies ArticleMartial Arts Book Review - Strategy In Unarmed Combat by Paul Maslak
Being the author of several books on the martial arts and fighting, I am always looking for books of exceptional quality to add to my library. If I have a book in my library, it's definitely worth owning. One such book is Paul Maslak?s, "Strategy in Unarmed Combat." Two particular items that really impressed me in this book were the way the author presented various concepts and principles to consider when faced with a confrontational situation. Although they are not things that are permanently written in stone, they are very useful and a lot of them will need to be modified and adapted a bit to fit each individual person. The second thing that I was very impressed with is the author?s belief (and mine as well, to a point) that it is more important to know how to apply a given technique rather than knowing how to execute a given technique. To a certain extent I understand what he was trying to get across, but I think a better way of looking at it is that the correct execution of a technique and the correct application of that same technique are two side of the same coin. Neither one is complete without the other. Here are the following headings which the author presents his very useful information. 1. The Wisdom: This section covers such non-esoteric principles as; Yin & Yang, principles of harmony which include the principles of flowing with and redirecting your opponent?s force back onto himself. Inner strength which in my opinion seems to be one of the most overlooked principles, is discussed with particular attention being given to learning how to develop ki through breathing and meditation. 2. Position: This section takes a look at several different principles such as; hit but don?t get hit, a fairly good yet brief section on vulnerable points as well as acupressure points, meridians of energy, and ending with a brief discussion on dim mak. I really found the portion of this section dedicated to positional advantage quite interesting and very educational. 3. Generalship: This section provides you with four basic battle plans to consider for the particular body type that you fall under. The author presents these four body types for your consideration. They are as follows: a. Longer and Stronger
b. Longer and Weaker
c. Shorter and Stronger
d. Shorter and Weaker The basic battle plans for each body type is pretty sound although they are not written in stone. They are meant to be basic in nature and then developed according to the needs of each individual person. This is really some good solid information to work with and develop for the individual. 4. Strategics: This section is absolutely phenomenal and gives some great examples of various strategies and principles to implement in your own martial arts or self-defense program. Here are some of the topics that are covered here. a. Scientific Boxing
b. Angle Attacks
c. Attacking the Front
d. Attacking the Flanks
e. Attacking the Rear
f. Balance Attacks
g. Surprise Attacks
h. Various types of distractions, etc. This book ends with an outstanding section on timing and the use of notations such as those you would use in sheet music to improve your fighting ability. If you seriously read and follow the information presented in this book and its companion book, ?What the Masters Know? you can literally see a dramatic improvement in your fighting ability overnight. These books have been in my library for a good number of years and I still refer back to them on a regular basis. Buy them; they?re well worth the investment. Shawn Kovacich has been practicing the martial arts for over 25 years and currently holds the rank of 4th degree (Yodan) black belt in both Karate and Tae Kwon Do. Shawn has also competed in such prestigious full-contact bare knuckle karate competitions as the Shidokan Open and the Sabaki Challenge, among others. In addition to his many accomplishments, Shawn is also a two time world record holder for endurance high kicking as certified by the Guinness Book of World Records. Shawn is the author of Axe Kick the third volume in the highly acclaimed Achieving Kicking Excellence? series. of martial arts books, and is currently working on several additional marital arts and self-defense books. Which are due to be released in 2007. | |
Power Training for Karate (Tsunami)
Karate Master Morio Higaonna reveals the treasury of training techniques that made him, according to martial arts author Donn F Draeger, "the most dangerous man in Japan in a real fight!" A professionally made 90 minute production that covers the entire karate training system including stretching, weight training, body conditioning, makiwara practice, kata, bunkai and sparring. Includes an excellent section on the history and origins of karate. The only video to be awarded a five star rating by Dragon Times magazine.
The Protector (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)
The Protector (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)
Thai martial arts virtuoso Tony Jaa stars as Kham, who travels to Australia to take on a gang and rescue a kidnapped elephant.
House of Flying Daggers
House of Flying Daggers
No one uses color like Chinese director Zhang Yimou--movies like Raise the Red Lantern or Hero, though different in tone and subject matter, are drenched in rich, luscious shades of red, blue, yellow, and green. House of Flying Daggers is no exception; if they weren't choreographed with such vigorous imagination, the spectacular action sequences would seem little more than an excuse for vivid hues rippling across the screen. Government officers Leo and Jin (Asian superstars Andy Lau and Takeshi Kaneshiro) set out to destroy an underground rebellion called the House of Flying Daggers (named for their weapon of choice, a curved blade that swoops through the air like a boomerang). Their only chance to find the rebels is a blind women named Mei (Ziyi Zhang, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon) who has some lethal kung fu moves of her own. In the guise of an aspiring rebel, Jin escorts Mei through gorgeous forests and fields that become bloody battlegrounds as soldiers try to kill them both. While arrows and spears of bamboo fly through the air, Mei, Jin, and Leo turn against each other in surprising ways, driven by passion and honor. Zhang's previous action/art film, Hero, sometimes sacrificed momentum for sheer visual beauty; House of Flying Daggers finds a more muscular balance of aesthetic splendor and dazzling swordplay. --Bret Fetzer
A Soldier's Story
A Soldier's Story
Director Norman Jewison's (In the Heat of the Night) 1984 adaptation of the Pulitzer Prize-winning play explores the ramifications of racism and loyalty through the prism of blacks in the military, revealed through a murder mystery set in the 1940s deep South. Howard E. Rollins (Ragtime) plays a military investigator assigned to the murder of a drill instructor (Adolph Caesar) in charge of a black platoon. Under pressure from his superiors to wrap his investigation up quickly, Rollins instead delves deeply into the relationships between the despised drill instructor and his men, uncovering lies and animosity, and confronting the question of what it means to be black in a white man's world. Rollins is a riveting, stoic, and emotional lead, and Denzel Washington makes an early appearance as a soldier with a deep grudge against the drill instructor and a deep mistrust of Rollins' investigator. A powerfully written story that makes the most of its large and impressive ensemble cast, A Soldier's Story is a deeply affecting and worthwhile film. --Robert Lane
Knife Defense Fundamentals
Knife Defense Fundamentals
Covers the essential basics of defending against the knife and gives you a solid foundation. Learn to use stance and distance to your advantage, evade an attack, close the distance for a counter, change the line of attack, control the knife arm, reverse your opponents momentum, apply standing restraint and control locks, understand the principles of a knife attack and take an attacker to the ground where you can successfully immobilize him, neutralizing the threat of the knife. Then put your new skills to work in 23 sample attack and defense scenarios that you can practice with a partner. Includes: - 7 Action Steps for Successful Knife Defense - Stance & footwork: using positioning & distance to your advantage - Looping: evasion & distance control - Deflecting: changing the line of attack - Gripping: control the knife arm - Inversion: reverse the attackers momentum - Pinion: st&ing restraints & ground immobilizations - Finishing techniques - Immobilizing an attacker with a choke, wrist lock, head lock, chin lock, body lock, takedown or pin - 23 Sample practice scenarios with variations - Applying the 4 tactical concepts of closing, passing, cutting in & coupling
Kickboxing - 2 DVD Set
Kickboxing - 2 DVD Set
One of the world's top kickboxers Klaus Nonnebaccker of Germany who trains in the famous Bull Dog Gym will show you more in these two DVD's then most instructors can show you in a life time. Klaus will show you his own personal workout routines including his unique pad drills and bag work. He will go thru each of the kicks and you will be able to learn exactly the way he does them..
This DVD was shot professionally and is exceptionally high quality. A double DVD set with close to two hours of instruction will improve all your skills from hands to feet tof ootwork.
Beginners Guide to Kendo and Iaido - d
Beginners Guide to Kendo and Iaido - d
Taught by Jim Wilson member of former Champion team of Kendoists. He shows basics, cuts, blocks, & footwork, as well as all decorum & etiquette associated with the way of the sword.
Glo-Toob Lighting - Glo-Toob Green, No Labeling
Glo-Toob Lighting - Glo-Toob Green, No Labeling
Patented Electric Lightstick, virtually unbreakable, waterproof to an amazing 11,000 ft. Uses one 12V A23 battery that lasts over 30 hours of constant use. Visible light of the Amber LED's up to one mile and beyond. 2.75 in. x 0.75 in., 0.075lbs. NO LABELING.
Labels: martial-arts-lessons | martial-arts-houston | international-martial-arts
Writing about martial-arts-houston was indeed a spontaneous decision on my part. I solemnly hope that this was a wise decision that I had made.
A Featured martial-arts-houston ArticleLearn The Devastating Martial Arts That Made Bruce Lee Famous
In order to learn Wing Chun, it is important to understand the history behind it. There are many versions of how Wing Chun came into being. Some say it was started by Ng Mui, a Buddhist nun who developed it over 300 years ago in southern China and named it after her student, Yim Wing Chun. While others believe it was started by a Shoalin monk in the early to mid 1700s. Wing Chun was almost unheard of anywhere else but China until 1950 when Grandmaster Yip Man began teaching in Hong Kong and his students grew in number. One on these students was the late Bruce Lee who became a master of the form and used Wing Chun as the basis for Jeet Kune Do or the Way of the Intercepting Fist, the style of martial arts he used in his ever popular movies. I can still remember being enthralled by ?Fists of Fury? and ?Enter the Dragon? with Bruce Lee using amazing skills of balance, graceful and agile movements and lightening fast strikes. His movies captivated a whole generation and encouraged many to study a martial art in one form or another. I believe many women learn Wing Chun because of its simple form, relying on position, the use of energy and angles rather than size and power. With short explosive blows by the hand and very low kicks, people of small stature find learning Wing Chun a remarkable form of self-defense. You can be effective without any massive strength at all. You actually learn to use your attacker?s strength against them. When you learn Wing Chun, you will gain better balance and speed, you will learn about how to position your body and how to refine your movements to their best advantage, mostly getting in close to your attacker. In Wing Chun the principal of the closest point between two points is a straight line holds true. Wing Chun is generally used for defence rather than attack and when first developed strikes were meant to be fatal and pointed at areas such as the throat, eyes and stomach. Many countries have their elite military personal learn Wing Chun, not only for self-defense but also for the quiet execution of the movements in arm to arm combat. It does not take long to learn Wing Chun, in fact it is quicker than most other forms and you can learn to defend yourself in a fairly shot period of time, but true of all martial arts you can practice it for the rest of your life. When you learn wing Chun you also gain health benefits as the meditative side of Wing Chun is a great stress reliever as Wing Chun is also about using your mind, learning to control impulses, relax into the movement and sense your balance, strength and power. As your fitness levels improve so to does your overall health. Whether you learn Wing Chun for self-defense, sport or simply as an exercise and meditation tool it will be a valuable asset for the rest of your life. Yoshi Kundagawa is a freelance journalist covering
the martial arts world. Too much time at his computer
eating donuts reduced him to couch potato status.
He's on a quest to recapture his youth and fitness.
You can read his blog at http://www.martialarts3000.com | |
Tao of Jeet Kune Do
This is Bruce Lee's treatise on his martial art, jeet kune do. This international best seller includes the philosophy of jeet kune do, mental and physical training, martial qualities, attack, and strategy. BEST SELLER!
Complete Krav Maga: The Ultimate Guide to Over 200 Self-Defense and Combative Techniques
Complete Krav Maga: The Ultimate Guide to Over 200 Self-Defense and Combative Techniques
Developed for the Israel military forces and battle tested in real-life combat, Krav Maga has gained an international reputation as an easy-to-learn yet highly effective art of self-defense. Clearly written and extensively illustrated, Complete Krav Maga details every aspect of the system including dozens of hand-to-hand combat moves, over 20 weapons defense techniques and a complete physical conditioning workout program.
All the moves are described in depth from beginning Yellow Belt to advanced Black Belt, yet they are easy to learn because one of Krav Maga's strengths is its simplicity. Based on the principle that it is best to move from defense to attack as quickly as possible, Complete Krav Maga offers fast-escape maneuvers from attacks and holds. It then follows them up with specific counterattacks, including punches, kicks and throws.
The authors show how anyone (big or small, man or woman) can practice self defense by using Krav Maga to protect weak spots, exploit an assailant's vulnerabilities and turn the attacker’s force against him. Complete Krav Maga teaches the reader how to get in shape, gain confidence and feel safer and more secure every day.
Century The Original Wavemaster Training Bag (Blue)
Century The Original Wavemaster Training Bag (Blue)
Century VersaFlex Stretching Machine
Century VersaFlex Stretching Machine
- Combines heavy duty steel construction with performance technology for superior stretching results.
- Built to accommodate stretchers from beginner level to the elite competitor or serious athlete.
- Stretches to 190 degrees.
- Stretching handles on each thigh deck.
- Degree indicator to chart stretching progress.
- Rugged steel construction.
- Durable and attractive powder coat paint finish.
- Two position stretching arm.
- Multi position thigh pads.
- Steel encased ratchet operating system.
- Quick release lever.
- Contoured high-density foam pads covered in deluxe upholstery.
- One year limited warranty.
- Some assembly required.
Expandable Steel Baton
Expandable Steel Baton
This Expandable Steel Baton is your secret to self-defense. Available in three sizes. With a simple snap of the wrist, the baton expands to its full size and becomes an excellent self defense weapon. The 26" baton measures 10" when closed, the 21" baton measures 8-1/4" when closed and the 16-1/2" baton closes to measure 6-1/2". Each baton features a foam padded handle for better comfort and reduced slippage. Black nylon sheath with belt loop included. **** OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS **** To open - hold baton close to body, gripping the handle firmly. Swing baton quickly away from body. The batons will extend. To collapse - grip handle firmly and strike the tip of the baton into a firm surface (such as the ground) in the opposite direction that the baton extends. ***** PLEASE NOTE ****** We have received several comments that these batons can be hard to close. The sections are held open by the friction of the tubes against each other. The more force used to open the baton, the more force needed to close the baton. These batons are not toys. These batons are are heavy duty steel weapons for self defense. We choose to sell a high quality product that takes some effort to close than a piece of junk that will fail in an emergency situation.
Mug with wearing, beaver, art, robe, animal, martial, sport
Mug with wearing, beaver, art, robe, animal, martial, sport
* Custom coffee mugs are dishwasher-safe and microwave-safe. Colors are permanently baked into the mug''s surface.
* If you have new ideas or need help selecting text for your custom coffee mugs please contact us.
* Size: 11 oz. capacity ceramic coffee mug.
The "SHOPZEUS.COM" label is just a watermark in the picture.
My Martial arts World IT'S MY LIFE GET USED TO IT Mug (Your Choice of Colors)
My Martial arts World IT'S MY LIFE GET USED TO IT Mug (Your Choice of Colors)
Opinionsrfun offers over 30,000 designs offered on tons of products from drinkware to apparel.
UNIVERSITY OF XXL MARTIAL ARTS Mug (Your Choice of Colors)
UNIVERSITY OF XXL MARTIAL ARTS Mug (Your Choice of Colors)
Opinionsrfun offers over 30,000 designs offered on tons of products from drinkware to apparel.
Labels: martial-arts-store | elite-martial-arts | mix-martial-arts
We had thought that producing some matter on martial-arts-lessons would be an impossibility. However, once we started, there was no turning back.
Today's martial-arts-lessons ArticleMartial Arts & Self-Defense Weapons - What IS a "Kubotan"?
If you do a search on the internet, there seems to be no end to what has been written about this simple, yet powerful weapon. There seems to be no small supply of writers who have used dramatic titles to add to the impact of an otherwise so-so article on the subject. "Fistful of Dynamite," "Rod of Pain," and many others lead the way as writers share their own knowledge and insight into this inconspicuous, and yet surprisingly powerful little weapon. Unfortunately, far too many of these articles serve little to no real purpose in helping you to actually create results. And, these articles range in scope from the generalized "what it is" variety, to the overly bloated tome that includes what seems to be every single detail and supposition that the author wishes to impress you with. Believe me, I have read a lot of what's available, and while there are certainly a number of valuable resources from real experts, they are buried in a cyber-world of practically worthless "chatter." While you can feel free to recreate my extensive research on the subject, I've brought it all together so you don't have to. So, what, exactly, is a Kubotan (pronounced "koo-bow-tahn") anyway? Good question. And to answer that, you can read the book titled, KUBOTAN: Self-Defense Keychain to get a much better idea. But, for now, I'll give you the short, "what's it look like and what else might it be called," version. For those interested, the above book covers the viewpoints of "where did it come from and how long has it been around," as-well-as others in its other chapters. In my other articles, you can take a quick overview of the strengths and weakness of this popular self-defense weapon. But, for now... The Kubotan, also known as a... 1. Pocket-stick... 2. Self-Defense Keychain... 3. Mini-Stick, and... 4. many others... ...is arguably, the most common self-defense weapon, next to the handgun, in the United States. While many new tactical weapons continue to find growing acceptance within the law enforcement and security communities, there seems to be little change within the realm of private citizens. It appears that, once people find a good thing, they tend to "stick" with it. (Yes, pun intended!) According to many experts in the field of defense and personal protection... "...the most popular, and quite possibly the most versatile, personal defense weapon is the Kubotan." For simplicity's sake, I'll refer to the weapon throughout this article as the Kubotan or, more simply, the self-defense keychain. However, regardless of the name given to it, this powerful little compliance tool, carried by thousands of men and women - martial artists and non-practitioners alike - is an awesome means of deterring and controlling an attack situation. Besides being, quite probably the cheapest weapon you can buy, in the hands of even a person skilled in only a few basic moves, the Kubotan is a formidable weapon for stopping an assailant in his tracks. And, for those with more training and developed skills, the self-defense keychain is one of the most effective self-defense tools that you can use today. The weapon is simple in appearance, inexpensive to acquire or make, and fairly easy to conceal. While not as versatile and convenient as a clipknife like the Delica from Spyderco - my preferred weapon/tool of choice, by the way - it is definitely easy-to-learn and even easier-to-use. Depending on the manufacturer, the Kubotan is just a basic rod made of metal, plastic, or wood. It's about 6 inches long and, as the name suggests, usually has a key ring attached at one end. The "official," patented, Kubotan weapon "invented" by a man named Tak Kubota, has grooves machined into the weapon to identify it as a unique creation. But, just like "Band-aid" has come to be the generic name for adhesive bandages and "Q-Tips" the same for cotton swabs, the bar-shaped, self-defense keychain is almost universally called a "Kubotan." There are other variants of the basic model, including what is billed as the "Ninja" version of the weapon. This little piece of imaginative effort, created during the '80's when every weapon had it's own "Ninja" version, has two thinner spikes protruding out from the side of the weapon that fit between your fingers when you grasped the main bar of the tool. Let me assure you that, regardless of what you ever read or hear, the Kubotan or self-defense keychain is NOT a Ninja weapon - officially or unofficially. It's ancestors that gave rise to the modern version, at least in Japan, were used by almost all trained warriors - not just the Ninja. The more commonly recognized variants of the weapon are generally manufactured from heavy-duty plastic or aluminum. The official Kubotan, and third-party copies, are simply straight rods with blunt ends. However, many self-defense key chains have at least one tapered end with the key ring attached to the squared, blunt end. Needless to say, some of these "centerpunch-like versions, are extremely dangerous - as they have the capability of actually penetrating the target and doing more severe damage. And, for those of you who are fashion-conscious and need to make sure that your self-defense weapon doesn't clash with your Armani, these little gems even come in a variety of colors and high-tech shapes to match just about any ensemble. So, to answer the question, "what IS a Kubotan?" It is a simple, easy to learn and use, self-defense weapon that can be effectively used by the smallest defender, to bring the largest assailant to his knees in seconds. Quite simply, it is the best weapon for the person with little to no formal training and who wants to be able to learn to defend him or herself with the least amount of time, effort, and money. Jeffrey M. Miller is the founder and master instructor of Warrior Concepts International. A senior teacher in the Japanese warrior art of Ninjutsu, he specializes in teaching the ancient ways of self-protection and personal development lessons in a way that is easily understood and put to use by modern Western students and corporate clients. He is the author of the book, KUBOTAN: Self-Defense Keychain and the best selling Safety DVD, Danger Prevention Tactics: Protecting Yourself Like a Pro To learn more about self-defense and other subjects related to the martial arts, self-protection, personal development & self-improvement, you can subscribe to his online newsletter, at http://www.warrior-concepts-online.com/newsletter.html | |
Personal Poly Lite Cooler, Holds 6 x 12oz Cans & Ice, Blue
Holds six 12 oz. Cans plus ice. Liner made with FDA allowable materials. Dimensions: 7 7/8 in. x 7 in. x 10/3/8 in.
Martial Arts Headbands
Martial Arts Headbands
Made from polyester/cotton fabric.
Choice of: Karate, Rising Sun, Korean Flag, Tae Kwon Do, Kung Fu, Kamikaze, Victory, Lil' Dragon, Kid Kick (White), or Kid Kick (Black). Size: 2-1/4" W x 45" L. Each sold separately.
NOTE: THE "KARATE" HEADBAND IS THE ONE THAT LOOKS LIKE THE ONE IN THE MOVIE "THE KARATE KID."
Middleweight Contact Pants
Middleweight Contact Pants
Middleweight Contact Pant A great kickboxing workout pant! See our Amazon Store at www.blackbeltshop.net
Japanese Headbands ("Fighting Spirit" and "Ichiban (#1)"Set of 2
Japanese Headbands ("Fighting Spirit" and "Ichiban (#1)"Set of 2
Set of 2 Japanese headbands that tie in the back. Use these headbands for martial arts, cooking or just for fun!
Each headband is 2 2/3 inches wide by 36 inches long.
Layered Wristwrap Boxing Gloves - Youth
Layered Wristwrap Boxing Gloves - Youth
Century slip on style with 3-1/2' wide hook/loop wrist wrap for maximum support to wrist and hand. Foam core with cushioned grip bar and tied thumbs. Vinyl shell is lined with nylon.
Sports Zone Kick Boxing Trainer
Sports Zone Kick Boxing Trainer
One Dozen (12) Karate Rubber Ducky Party Favors
One Dozen (12) Karate Rubber Ducky Party Favors
These make perfect party favors! You'll receive an assortment of red, black, white, and blue ducks for a total of one dozen. They don't squeak but they do have a tiny hole in the beak so they can squirt water. These do NOT float upright. Measure approximately 2" x 2". (Ducks may have minor paint scratches due to bulk packaging.)
Made in America: The Most Dominant Champion in UFC History
Made in America: The Most Dominant Champion in UFC History
If you know anything at all about mixed martial arts and the UFC, then you know the name Matt Hughes. With devastating slams and ground-and-pound -- and nine championship belts to his credit -- Matt is the most dominant fighter in UFC history.
Matt was raised with his twin brother on a family farm in small-town Hillsboro, Illinois. Behind the postcard-perfect fields of corn, beans, and wheat stood a home consumed by bankruptcy, tension, and interpersonal struggles, but Matt reacted to hard times by playing hard and working even harder. In high school and college Matt was an unstoppable wrestler, and he ended up a two-time Division I All-American. Whereas every year's top eight graduating college football players become instant millionaires, Matt got to stay on as assistant wrestling coach, doing electrical work on the side for fourteen dollars an hour. All of that changed the day he met legendary MMA manager Monte Cox, as well as Pat Miletich, a trainer who also happened to be the welterweight champion of the world. Rising through the ranks of the independent fighting circuit and the UFC, Matt saw things that fans could only catch glimpses of -- until now. For the first time, a major UFC superstar has decided to answer all the questions the fans have about him, the organization, and the sport. You'll learn which fighter almost sent Matt packing from mixed martial arts; why he refused to speak to his role model, Randy Couture; and what his relationship with UFC president Dana White is like. He reveals in which match he found himself praying to God for help, why he originally refused a shot at the world title, and what it's like training at the Miletich Fighting Camp. Matt describes working on TV's The Ultimate Fighter, what really happened to Tito Ortiz during the legendary brawl on the streets of London, just how personal his rivalry with Frank Trigg became, and what it was like to go up against the mythical Royce Gracie -- and destroy him. Matt discloses his most private thoughts and feelings during both his epic victories and his crushing losses. But when the gloves come off, there's Matt Hughes the man. He talks with unflinching honesty about his early hell-raising and his near-death experience, the moment he let God into his heart, falling in love with his wife, the birth of his daughter, and all the important events of his life -- and he shares personal photographs never before seen by the public. A Christian, a family man, and a fighter, Matt Hughes could only have been made in America.
News about martial-arts-lessonsMartial arts exhibit comes to Marion, Aug. 16 (Florence Morning News)Mon, 11 Aug 2008 23:00:30 GMT
The City of Marion and local martial groups have join to bring a day of empowerment for area youth on Aug. 16, beginning at 5 p.m. in the C.D. Joyner Fine Arts Center on Elizabeth Street in Marion. Also, Way of the Warrior Studio is joining forces with the national charity, the Sidekick Foundation, That foundation helps martial arts schools provide scholarships for at-risk children so they can ...
martial art classes
Labels: types-of-martial-arts | academy-of-martial-arts | korean-martial-arts
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A impact-martial-arts Artilce for Your ViewingMartial Arts and Real-World Self-Defense - Using the Kubotan Self-Defense Keychain
The most surprising thing that my students learn when I teach a seminar or workshop on the Kubotan self-defense keychain, is just how many things can be done with this simple-looking little tool. And that, is part of it's power! Many people, including would-be attackers, underestimate the effectiveness of the Kubotan. After all, it looks like a fat pencil and is barely big enough to fit extend from the closed hand that's holding it. But that is where the magic begins. While most teachers focus on using the Kubotan in an overtly aggressive manner, I teach my students to use this powerful little weapon to "attack the hidden spots" - the places where your assailant can neither see nor protect... ...until it's too late. The Kubotan has three basic functions, or methods, by which it can deliver the maximum amount of damage with a minimal amount of effort on the part of the defender. This methods are: 1. Levering or crushing 2. Striking, and... 3. Scraping And, when done against specific targets on the opponent's body, the results can be devastating. The three attack methods can be used in a variety of ways against specific "sensitive areas," known as kyusho (pronounced "kyoo-show") in Japanese. These three areas, or target types, are... 1. Pressure points (these are the same ones used in accupressure and accupuncture for healing) 2. Soft areas (like the eyes, thinner skin in the insides and backs of the arms, lips, etc.), and... 3. Bone structure (especially areas not covered by muscle). The Kubotan self-defense keychain is a very powerful weapon, even in the hands of a novice. In fact, I would say that it's the best first-weapon for the beginner or person with no formal training looking to give themselves the advantage of a weapon, without the longer learning curve usually required. Jeffrey M. Miller is the founder and master instructor of Warrior Concepts International. A senior teacher in the Japanese warrior art of Ninjutsu, he specializes in teaching the ancient ways of self-protection and personal development lessons in a way that is easily understood and put to use by modern Western students and corporate clients. He is the author of the book, KUBOTAN: Self-Defense Keychain and the best selling Safety DVD, Danger Prevention Tactics: Protecting Yourself Like a Pro To learn more about self-defense and other subjects related to the martial arts, self-protection, personal development & self-improvement, you can subscribe to his online newsletter, at http://www.warrior-concepts-online.com/newsletter.html | |
Timecop [HD DVD]
In this "pumped-up adventure packed with white-knuckle thrills" (Associated Press), time travel is not only a reality, but an opportunity to alter the past for power and profit. Jean-Claude Van Damme stars in the sci-fi thriller that mixes hard-hitting action with awesome special effects, romance and murder. Ron Silver co-stars as Van Damme's cunning adversary in what People magazine touts as "clever and original, Timecop is a thinking man's movie."
Enter the Dragon [Blu-ray]
Enter the Dragon [Blu-ray]
Recruited by an intelligence agency, outstanding martial arts student Bruce Lee participates in a brutal karate tournament hosted by the evil Han. Along with champions Roper and Williams, he uncovers Han's white slavery and drug trafficking ring located on a secret island fortress. In the exciting climax, hundreds of freed prisoners fight in an epic battle with Lee and Han locked in a deadly duel.
The Last Dragon
The Last Dragon
Get ready for some seriously big hair. The Last Dragon--or, to call it by its full title, Berry Gordy's the Last Dragon--is a stunning example of 1980s camp cinema. One-name kung fu wonder Taimak plays Leroy Green, a.k.a. Bruce Leroy, a humble student of kung fu who has achieved the highest level of skill, but hasn't yet found his inner master. Wandering through the streets of New York in a Chinese peasant outfit, he accidentally becomes the protector of nightclub hostess/video jockey Laura Charles (played by former Prince protégé Vanity, who also costarred in the trash classic Action Jackson). She's being threatened by a height-challenged mobster who wants her to play his girlfriend's video (the girlfriend is something of a Cyndi Lauper look-alike, played by Broadway star Faith Prince). Meanwhile, a man who calls himself Sho'Nuff, the Shogun of Harlem, wants to kick Leroy's ass and prove himself the baddest kung fu master in town. Add to this Leroy's smart-mouthed brother Richie (who calls Leroy "the chocolate-covered yellow peril"), a dregs-of-Motown soundtrack (DeBarge is a high point), ninja battles, pseudo-Eastern philosophical babble, and a jaw-dropping club performance by Vanity, and you have a hilarious example of why we're all so very glad the '80s are over. Featuring a bit role by William H. Macy (Fargo, Magnolia). --Bret Fetzer
WINSOR PILATES BALL WORKOUT (INCLUDES DVD, BURST RESISTANT BALL & PUMP, COOKBOOK WITH RECIPES).
WINSOR PILATES BALL WORKOUT (INCLUDES DVD, BURST RESISTANT BALL & PUMP, COOKBOOK WITH RECIPES).
Fitness Ball From Century - Small
Fitness Ball From Century - Small
This one simple product tones and firms buttocks, thighs, and abdominals, strengthens the back, chest and arms, and increases aerobic endurance. Durable vinyl.
Chinese Massage Oil 2oz.
Chinese Massage Oil 2oz.
Luxuriate yourself with the golden warmth of this perfect combination of oils and lubricants to relieve pain and stress from over worked muscles.
Black Belts Karate Home Studio VHS
Black Belts Karate Home Studio VHS
Here's a fun and easy way to train to become a karate master! This complete home studio teaches blocks, punches, stances and kicks. Use the inflatable, step-by-step mat and kick bag as you follow along with the 30-minute VHS featuring Tommy Nitroand Friends.
BLANKS B-TAE BO CONTACT W/BILLY BAG (DVD)
BLANKS B-TAE BO CONTACT W/BILLY BAG (DVD)
An exciting Tae Bo workout featuring two programs on DVD and an upright speed bag designed to help tone and strengthen your body.
impact-martial-arts in the newsMinden man rising in MMA (nwlanews.com)Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:09:52 GMT
Like a lot of ex-high school football players, former Crimson Tide football player John Wesley Reed (Minden High Class of ‘07) was looking for something to fill the void left after football. That’s when he found mixed martial arts.
Labels: martial-arts-classes | martial-arts-shoes | mixed-martial-arts-training | |
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