Vechtsporten wapens is best beginnen?

U wilt toevoegen van vechtsporten wapens in je opleiding? U verwarring welke is het beste voor beginners? Dit artikel hoogte punten die een klein stukje van wijsheid vaak over het hoofd door studenten gezien wordt en docenten een "favoriet" martial arts wapens hebben. Na het leren het geheim om het beste uit uw training in vechtsporten wapens, kun je de volgende stap in uw vaardigheid, het vermogen en de potentiële controle!

Dit is eigenlijk heel gemeen, met name met betrekking tot martial arts is als beginners, ik meerdere e-mails een week gevraagd advies wapen om te beginnen met opleiding en wapens krijgs kunst is beter voor beginners.

En hoewel er zijn enkele die wapens moeilijk leer curve, stel ik niet voor beginners, deze kwestie is niet het antwoord eenvoudig zoek plupart.En feit, met uitzondering van deze paar zeldzame, ik denk dat er een "betere" wapen als een eerste stap.

En wat maakt een beetje meer verwarrend of moeilijk te begrijpen van de reactie.

Wat ik denk dat ontbreekt in kwestie is de duidelijkheid op het "waarom" u opleiding in de martial arts in een eerste temps.Et bent voordat u aannemen dat iedereen zou opleiding om dezelfde reden, ik kan u verzekeren dat dit zeker niet het geval is.

Dan dat mijn aanpak van martial arts opleiding vraag, keuze en training met wapens vechtsport is stevig gecentreerd rond moderne vaardigheden, de echte wereld van zelf verdediging, zijn er vele studenten en leer krachten hebben zeer verschillende redenen andere dan deze.

Dus de eerste stap in het beslissen over een bepaalde wapen vechtsporten als een eerste stap in uw opleiding, moet u duidelijk zijn over uw eigen redenen voor opleiding.Het is zelf verdediging of toernooien, esthetische Aziatisch, enzovoort.?

Zodra je het antwoord op deze vraag weet, dan kunt u het verplaatsen van een wapen van keuze, maar u ook uw vragen naar uw leraar over een staat van geest zeer précis.Au in plaats van vage sturen kunt, hebt u een reden voor het leren en medewerkers de mogelijkheid om ervoor te zorgen dat u de opleiding en kennis is plek op met wat je nodig hebt.

Effectieve zelf verdediging vereist meer dan een paar "Karate beweegt."Dit is de mogelijkheid om strategisch denken en begrijpen hoe om te verdedigen met als kleine-en-wear voor u mogelijk.

Voor meer informatie over wat u nodig hebt om te overleven in een eigenlijke aanval kennis Street, lees mijn meest recente boek van zelf verdediging: "strijd Intelli - niet harder!"Het is beschikbaar gratis bij: http://www.warrior-concepts-online.com/street-fighting-self-defense-book.html

Jeffrey M. Miller is een reputatie van zelf verdediging expertise.Chaque maanden hij letterlijk duizenden studenten uit zakelijke opleidings evenementen leerde, seminars en in-demand zelf verdediging geheimen succes cursussen thuis, lessen om te overleven in een vaak gevaarlijke wereld van vandaag.

Krijgen een DVD van krijgs kunsten kan geven u een idee van welke krijgs kunst die je wilt studeren

Koop een vechtsport DVD is waarschijnlijk een goed idee, kunt u veel van de praktijk thuis, vooral als u een complete beginner. Kunt u zelf een bepaalde norm voordat u zelfs een voet in een klasse gewone vechtsporten.

Het zou leuk zijn om te overwegen de aankoop van de DVD, zorg ervoor dat u selecteert hoes die u hebt geselecteerd als uw specifieke discipline.

Natuurlijk, het er zijn gemengde vechtsporten DVD die, zoals de woorden zeggen, zal het tonen van verschillende vechtsporten gebruikt in combinatie met elkaar.

U kunt de praktijk sommige oefeningen aan uw DVD, maar wanneer u een klasse te nemen u vinden dat uw instructeur iets anders zal bewegen.In dit geval moet u de dezelfde bewegingen nemen, zoals uw instructeur is uw leren DVD niet worden verspild wordt het gewoon extra.

Misschien hebben u nog niet besloten die u wilt praktijk en om te zien de actie kunt u alle hulp die u nodig hebt om je geest.

Art martial oefeningen zijn gebouwd om uw lichaam als flexibel en flexibele possible.lorsque zie je verschillende ploegen diensten die je je realiseert zal dat je in staat om een goed aantal van hen tot dat u uw lichaam te ontspannen.

Natuurlijk moet je dus kracht en je krijgt lichaam versterking van oefeningen en eventueel krachttraining.

Ik denk dat dat wanneer u spreken van krijgs kunsten aan iedereen ze voelen zich onmiddellijk zelf verdediging.Zelf verdediging is vandaag een dergelijke positieve vaardigheid te bezitten.Niet alleen voor uw eigen veiligheid, maar je kan zelfs helpen iemand anders, als je hebt gezien in elke bedreigende situatie.

Veel krijgs kunst vaardigheden is te doen met uw staat van geest ook.U moet niet alleen je lichaam, je moet je geest te worden gedisciplineerd en discipline.La concentratie is essentieel in deze discipline snelle beweging.

Alles moet worden instinctief, hoeft u niet op tijd te stijgen en na te denken over je volgende stap, u moet zitten kundig voor gewoon doen zonder na te denken

Sommige van de disciplines, aikido, bijvoorbeeld hangt volledig niet de kracht het is met name goed voor vrouwen en jongeren.

Aikido heeft vele voordelen naast de grotere capaciteit, Word je meer bewust zelf, u verhogen van uw gevoel van eigenwaarde, bieden weerstand innerlijke en verwer ven het vermogen in een bepaalde situatie kalm te blijven en te in staat om helder te denken wanneer een situatie stressante.Aussi coördinatie van uw lichaam en geest is oneindig veel verbeterd zijn.

De meeste jongens hou van Jackie Chan en zijn briljante bewegingen
Klik hierVoor meer informatie over gratis en kritische vele verschillende arts martial dvd

Dat is de grootste van vuur wapens, zelf verdediging of martial arts, training?

De simpele waarheid is dat de krijgs kunsten hebben hun grenzen, en iedereen die je anders vertelt een dwaas is. Vergeet niet, als de strijd met lege handen was het was gebarsten, hadden we de noodzaak van alle wapens. Aan de andere kant, omdat je wapen niet betekent dat je zal altijd de mogelijkheid hebben om het te gebruiken. Veel mensen, denken met name bij toepassing van het Gemeenschapsrecht dat omdat ze hebben vuur wapens opleiding zullen ze moeten voor de tactiek van de hand in hand, maar dit zou niet ver van de waarheid. Statistieken tonen aan dat een politie agent meer kans is op fysiek misbruikt worden goed totdat zij konden hun wapen te implementeren. Er is slechts één antwoord dat dit debat; om te slagen in meleevechten, u moet beide.

Onder de meer permanente mythen van martial arts is dat ze de noodzaak voor de opleiding van de armen elimineren. It's out of drie voeten u geconfronteerd met een vuur wapen en in drie meter, heb je een echte strijd op uw handen.Eigenlijk, veel mensen denken dat ze moeten kiezen tussen het bezit van vuur wapens en martial arts, zelf verdediging, training, maar ze tort.Historiquement, martial arts hebben en wapens opleiding hebben bewezen samen te werken om een doeltreffende vorm van zelf verdediging en dicht te best rij den.

Wanneer de primitieve musketten geïntroduceerd voor Samurai Nederlandse en Portugese handelaren, doen ze niet afzien van hun bogen of zwaarden, maar zij begon te geven van het nieuwe wapen in hun infanterie. Zelfs Saig?Saigo, die de Satsuma opstand die was vertegenwoordigd in de film The Last Samurai leidde, leerde wapens vuur wapens opleiding in de scholen van vechtsporten als werkelijkheid Samurai vuur wapens in aanvulling op de traditionele wapens rebellen en de nieuwe keizerlijke leger had veel Samurai als agenten van het Internet. Combinaties van vuur wapens vechtsport, leidde tot vele wrede dichtbij gevechten gevechten tussen de rebellen en de regering krachten voordat de strijd tegen einde in een bloedige last zou komen.

De pioniers van de close combat in de tweede wereld oorlog, waarbij de martial arts in het leger heeft niet verwaarlozen wapens opleiding.Integendeel, zelf verdediging deskundige Fairbairn e. William die studeerde verschillende vechtsporten en had een zwarte gordel van Kodokan Judo was ook een grote promotor lamp formation.Durant realistisch loopbaan wetshandhaving vuur wapens, leerde hij dat zijn studenten overleven de echte strijd wapens vuur wapens, messen en martial arts. Fairbairn ontmoeting met Rex Applegate tijdens de oorlog was hij al het aanleren van technieken zoals schieten.Beide mannen begrepen dat in om klaar te zijn voor de strijd, een krijger zou dodelijk met en zonder wapens.

Je zou verbaasd zijn hoeveel dedicated martial arts eigen vuur wapens.Sommige dragen omdat ze vinden hun training martial arts sport voor wat het is en hebben geen misverstanden met betrekking tot overleven en echte .Combats aanval gewoon onrechtvaardig zijn en als u te hebt met meerdere aanvallers maken, vuur wapen snel afschrikken kan, het geven van tijd om te ontsnappen.

De wereld is niet ideaal en de kansen zijn dat u zal worden genomen door verrast.Opleiding in martial arts u zal zijn om een meer in staat om u te beschermen wanneer je armen omhoog.Kun je niet je armen overal nemen kunt, maar u altijd klaar voor close combat.

Voor een lange tijd, was er een kloof tussen "geweer kerels" en "martial arts jongens", en het is inutile.Pour doeltreffend zijn en te overleven in een close gevecht, moet u een goede wapens opleiding van zelf verdediging .Ni vervangen door een andere delen zodat de tijd tussen het strand en martial arts martial arts dankzij en schiet partij school te worden in de juiste geest, doen wat je doet voor een survivre.En bestaande uit zowel, uw overlevings kansen verbeteren uniquement.Si correct gedaan, uw vechtsporten en zelf verdediging opleiding moeten vallen rechtstreeks met uw vuur wapens opleiding.

MartialArts | martial arts-instructie | zelf verdediging

Wat krijgs kunst is automatisch?

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Those of us old enough will remember trying to find a martial art club was almost impossible. Many clubs trained in backstreet gyms and halls, were often just a small group of friends. If you knew someone training already, it was easy to get in, if you didn't, well, it was virtually impossible. Fast forward to the early 70's. It was at this time that the 'Bruce Lee Phenomenon' hit the West. Enter The Dragon, a major Hollywood backed film, hit the silver screens. It was explosive, here was a guy who could do almost magical things, at blistering speeds, and so, as a direct result of that film, so was born the modern age of martial arts in the West.

Clubs began to spring up everywhere, people flocked to be trained so they could be like Bruce Lee! The reality of that was somewhat harsher! Soon, may realised that to reach even a fraction of Lee's ability required years of painstaking practise!

The first martial art to really explode as a result of Lee's film was Karate. With schools already well established in the UK, they capitalised on the phenomenon by coming out of the back streets and into the school and church halls etc. Adverts sprang up, and all of a sudden, you could find a club to train at! Karate is perhaps one of the most well known of all the martial arts, with a rich history and tradition spanning centuries. And so Karate clubs began to boom, along with other martial art styles, which began to gain interest from a Western culture suddenly smitten with the lure of Eastern mysticism and legends.

Inevitably, this boom faded, people left because it was too hard, that to get anywhere was a lifelong commitment, not something achieved in a matter of weeks or months, but years of hard graft. And so, clubs lost members, but not to the extreme levels that they disappeared back into the dingy training halls of earlier years. Many thrived with a steady increase in students, losing others along the way, but retaining sufficient to keep going.

Then, as with the Bruce Lee films, along came another Hollywood Blockbuster that was to push martial arts back into the public domain...Karate Kid. The film was simple, a young lad being picked on by a group of Karate school bullies, boy comes across a Japanese janitor, who just happens to be a master in Karate....Mr Myagi. It was a wonderfully simplistic film, where, I am sure we all remember, the young lad, 'Daniel san' was taught the rudimentaries of Karate through washing a car! 'Wax on, wax off'.....marvelously clever analogy, from which he learnt everything he needed to do Karate! Of course, it is not that easy in reality, but here we had a film, which spawned 2 sequels, that suddenly showed that training was not only hard work, but could be fun as well!

And, what this film did that no other film before it had done, it attracted Children to the martial arts! It was truly a catalyst in the meteoric rise of martial arts clubs across the world, with parents rushing to sign up their kids to learn about this wonderful way of looking after yourself, of learning respect and discipline, and making their children better people for when they finally enter the world as Adults. Karate was the main benefactor of this boom, obviously I guess given the film's title, but the knock on effects were felt right across the various martial art styles. Popularity rose through more films, with stars such as Jackie Chan, who, with his unique blend of undoubted skills and comedy, made Chinese martial arts seem fun to learn. And so there we have it, a very brief history of the rise in popularity...But! Here we are in 2008, and despite all the publicity, do you know which martial art is which? I hope the following will give you some guidance:

Karate - Probably one the most recognised. There are several styles, which I will not elaborate too much on here, suffice to say that each does have it's differences, but each also has many of the same characteristics, namely a focus on traditional etiquette, discipline and hard work. Karate (meaning Empty Hand) is a very traditional martial art, where you will certainly learn respect for others. The main styles are Shotokan, Wado Ryu, Goju Ryu, and Shitu Ryu, though there are a great many more. Karate has also become one of the most 'bastardised' styles. There are a great many schools and organisations whose Chief Instructors have studied many of the styles, and have combined this knowledge to develop their own systems. These Organisations have developed their own curriculums and grading syllabus. Essentially they are still Karate, and, with the right club or organisation, you will learn a great deal about yourself.

Taekwondo (or Tae Kwon Do) - This is a Korean martial art, thousands of years old, but only really becoming popular in the past 20 or 30 years. The modern concept of Taekwondo was developed by General Choi in Korea during the 1950's. Today, there are two styles, ITF (International Taekwondo Federation) and WTF (World Taekwondo Federation). Both teach the same basic ideals. Taekwondo (meaning the way of hand and foot) is, predominantly, a martial art based around kicking techniques. Very spectacular and effective techniques, but those learning Taekwondo will also learn valuable hand techniques, and self defense. ITF Taekwondo is much closer to the original concept of General Choi. The WTF style has developed more into a Sport, and is, in fact, a recognised Olympic Sport. ITF sparring is semi contact, whereas, if you fancy your chances, the WTF style concentrates on full contact.

Judo - Judo means 'The Gentle Way'. It is a very modern art, and, in fact, is not really a martial art, but a sport. Judo is, however, a very effective self defense art, teaching you how to put locks and holds on an opponent, and how to throw. There are no kicks or punches in Judo. A well established Olympic sport, it offers an alternative to more traditional 'combat' style martial arts.

Kung Fu - A Chinese martial art. There are hundreds of styles available, the most popular today being Wing Chun. Bruce Lee was a famous exponent of Kung Fu, but he also studied many of it's various styles and developed his own Jeet Kune DO (JKD), a method of fighting that used real life street situations to develop an effective method of attack and defense.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - This is the fastest growing martial art style in the world today. Japanese Judo and Ju Jitsu masters exported their martial arts to Brazil around the 1940's and 50's, where it quickly gained popularity. A Brazilian family, the Gracies, took this knowledge and developed it into one of the most effective ground fighting systems known today. Although similar to Judo and Ju Jitsu, the Brazilian art concentrates much more on getting your opponent into a submission by locks, holds and chokes. It is, to many, a much more realistic method for the street, where rules do not exist.

MMA - Not really a martial art as such. MMA means 'Mixed Martial Arts'. It's origins are again Brazil, where it is known as Vale Tudo. Today, MMA, or perhaps you would know it better as 'cage fighting' is a huge sport, dominated by the UFC, Pride and Cage Rage. It has, for many, become an alternative to boxing. MMA is a 'no holds barred' sport, whereby opponents can punch, kick, elbow, knee and wrestle each other into submission, or, get a knockout. Very explosive, and certainly not for the faint hearted! Those in MMA will have also trained in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, as well as Karate, Taekwondo or other martial art style, hence the term Mixed Martial Arts.

Kickboxing - Probably the second largest participant club sport in the world. Developed by the Americans as an alternative to Boxing, Kickboxing is, as the name suggests, a Boxing sport, but you are also allowed to kick. Training is hard but rewarding. As well as traditional boxing techniques (jabs, hooks, crosses, ducking and weaving etc), you will also learn a variety of kicks, most of which derive from Taekwondo in style. In fact, many Taekwondo clubs will also run their own Kickboxing clubs, as the two styles compliment each other extremely well.

Choi Kwang Do - Another Korean art, this concentrates mostly on the practical side of 'what works in reality'. Kicks, generally, are not above the waist, and you will learn a variety of hand techniques, all designed to work 'on the street'.

Tai Chi - Another Chinese art. Often thought of as an 'old people's' martial art. Whilst it certainly lends itself well to the older generation, in my personal opinion, it should not be overlooked. It teaches meditation and relaxation, but also it teaches you to focus your inner energy, or Chi, very effectively.

In some ways, it is sad that, as a result of the modern age, there are also some excellent, but increasingly forgotten martial arts worth investigating. Aikido and Hapkido (Japanese and Korean respectively) have become victims of the increase in popularity of the more explosive martial arts. These are predominantly self defense systems, but incredibly effective. If you aren't sure, watch some of Steve Segal's early films. Segal is a world recognised master of Aikido, it is one of the single most effective martial arts for self defense, but, sadly, it receives little publicity nowadays. It's principles are the teaching of using your opponents own momentum for your own gain, it also teaches pressure points and restraints. Even if you study one of the more popular styles, Aikido or Hapkido are definitely worth considering as a second martial art.

Today, choosing which martial art you want to do is actually much easier than you think. A great many clubs will offer you a first lesson free, so take advantage of that fact, and go and try as many as you can. In this way, you can find out which one suits you best.

I will give a couple of words of caution!!

1. Do not be tempted to sign up to a membership or any payment plan on your first lesson, or even in the first 3 or 4 lessons. Make sure it is right for you first!

2. Avoid buying any uniform for the same period. Otherwise, if you decide it's not for you, you will have wasted your money.

3. Go along and watch a few classes first, before actually trying. Most clubs will let you watch. You will get a different perspective on the class teachings this way.

4. Talk to other members, or even the Instructors. Nobody will mind you asking questions. Believe it or not, the vast majority of clubs are not interested in just taking your money only to see you leave. They want you longterm, because they genuinely want to teach you and see you develop.

There are, unfortunately, plenty of organisations out there who will happily take your money. The 'McDojo' as they are derogatorily referred to by our American friends are out there, waiting for the unsuspecting student or parent. These will try the hard sell, some even go cold canvassing onto the streets! Don't be easily tempted by promises of a Black Belt in a few weeks or months, it simply doesn't happen that way.

So, how long will it take to get a Black Belt? Well, on average, you should allow a minimum of 3 years, and that is based upon a lot of hard work, and regular weekly training, at least twice a week! And remember also, a Black Belt does not mean you are an expert! On the contrary, getting your Black Belt is merely akin to completing your apprenticeship of learning...Once you get your Black Belt, the real learning starts, it is your doorway to a wealth of knowledge and experience that awaits you on the other side.

Too many people look at trying to grade every 3 months, which is fine. But, it is not how quick you get your Black Belt that counts, it is EARNING your Black Belt that will make it most satisfying.

Learning to defend yourself, and others, is only one aspect of Martial Arts, but Martial Arts is not about learning violence. It is, and remains, one of the most effective methods of fitness in the World. It will teach you confidence, respect, both for yourself and others, you will learn discipline and above all, you will learn how to become a respected and well rounded individual.

And when you do decide which martial art to practise, don't be afraid to check out just where you can get your equipment. Often your Instructors can supply you the equipment you need, but if you feel their prices are too high, check out the Internet of a Martial Arts Magazine for guidance. Instructors do, on the whole sell to you at the same price, but unfortunately some like to try and make a fair nit more if they can. Fortunately, the boom in Martial Arts has also seen a boom in the choice of Martial Arts Supplies available. So, whatever you do decide to practise, you will also be spoilt for choice as to where you can go to kit yourself out!

So go on, give it a try, and you will never look back!

Steve Turner Black Eagle Martial Arts Equipment

Which Is The 'Deadliest' Style of Martial Arts?

It seems you can't get into a discussion about martial arts without someone claiming that the style they practice is the best. Of course this isn't possible, because at least someone else in the group either practices the best martial arts style or knows someone who does. If you go online you will find thousands of opinions on the subject. Each person claims they can prove that their style is the best. Like religion, martial arts practitioners defend their style vehemently and aggressively. This can be pretty confusing especially if you don't know anything about the martial arts. But no matter what your level of experience, it always comes down to one question: Which martial arts style is the deadliest?

Well, that is actually a trick question and it is often asked by people who are uneducated about martial arts. Anyone saying they teach or know the most deadly style of martial arts is a liar or they're very much mistaken. The truth is there isn't one martial arts style that is the most deadly and if there was don't you think everyone would be studying it? Nothing can be kept secret for very long so don't believe the hype when it comes to martial arts. There are a lot of cliché's when it comes to martial arts and self defense.

If you want a style of martial arts that is effective in combat you have to look back in history and find out what style worked in street fights and on the field of battle applicable to modern times. All martial arts claim a combat heritage, but not all styles remain combat effective. They become either out dated or become "civilized". It doesn't happen overnight, but over time a style can become sanitized with rules and restrictions. Take karate for example, which started out as a practical martial art where the primary goal was killing or disabling your enemy. Sounds pretty brutal, but that isn't what's being taught in strip mall schools around the United States. The martial art being practiced is a sport or 'nice' watered down version of karate. All the potentially deadly moves and strikes have been removed to prevent injury or death in competition. Remember just because something was created for combat doesn't mean it is still effective; the yo-yo started off as a weapon, but when was the last time you heard of someone killing somebody with one?

Films and TV add to this misconception and are largely responsible for misinforming people about martial arts, and can't be used as your guide. Many great martial artists like Chuck Norris and Bruce Lee have made martial arts films, but even they needed to change their styles so it would have more of a theatrical impact. On screen, conventional martial arts aren't "flashy enough," so like anything theatrical in nature they have been made bigger and louder. In real life, if a smart and well trained martial artist is surrounded by armed thugs they're going to try to fight their way out so they can run to safety NOT fight them all at the same time. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon was nice to watch, but nobody can catch bullets, fly threw the air and break the laws of physics no matter how hard they train. The Hollywood scriptwriter, not a fighter's martial arts knowledge, dictates how a fight goes and anybody's style can be made to look cool on camera. Enjoy martial arts films as entertainment, but remember it isn't real not by a long shot.

Another over exaggeration of a martial artist's capability is the image of an elderly Asian martial artist killing or disabling an attacker with a single touch known as the death touch or "dim mak". Now while it is possible to kill with one strike. The idea of "tapping someone and watching them pass out is ludicrous. I know there are a lot of martial arts videos on the market and on you-tube that show martial artists claiming to have this ability, but you should seriously think about it. If there really was a "death touch," don't you think everyone would be using it? With all the money people invest in professional fighting and sports and all the contact that happens, don't you think more people would be dropping dead in the ring or on the field by accidentally hitting these areas? If the "death touch" truly existed, people would abandon what they were practicing and learn it or spend their time building defenses against it, because why would you bother with anything else. Remember, there's no documentation or police report that exists that has the cause of death as "dim mak"!

Even some of the best martial artists in the world have admitted that in a real fight to resorting to grabbing an attacker's testicles or gouge an eye or even biting to survive a deadly encounter (Read Gichin Funakoshi's Karate-Do). In reality, most people die from being strangled, blunt force trauma, and serious blood loss not magic or secret moves. If there is a "deadliest style" or system of martial arts is one that teaches you to do the above quickly, ruthlessly and without regard for human life.

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Martial Arts, Martial Arts Training and Self Defense

Which Martial Art Is For Me?

Those of us old enough will remember trying to find a martial art club was almost impossible. Many clubs trained in backstreet gyms and halls, were often just a small group of friends. If you knew someone training already, it was easy to get in, if you didn't, well, it was virtually impossible. Fast forward to the early 70's. It was at this time that the 'Bruce Lee Phenomenon' hit the West. Enter The Dragon, a major Hollywood backed film, hit the silver screens. It was explosive, here was a guy who could do almost magical things, at blistering speeds, and so, as a direct result of that film, so was born the modern age of martial arts in the West.

Clubs began to spring up everywhere, people flocked to be trained so they could be like Bruce Lee! The reality of that was somewhat harsher! Soon, may realised that to reach even a fraction of Lee's ability required years of painstaking practise!

The first martial art to really explode as a result of Lee's film was Karate. With schools already well established in the UK, they capitalised on the phenomenon by coming out of the back streets and into the school and church halls etc. Adverts sprang up, and all of a sudden, you could find a club to train at! Karate is perhaps one of the most well known of all the martial arts, with a rich history and tradition spanning centuries. And so Karate clubs began to boom, along with other martial art styles, which began to gain interest from a Western culture suddenly smitten with the lure of Eastern mysticism and legends.

Inevitably, this boom faded, people left because it was too hard, that to get anywhere was a lifelong commitment, not something achieved in a matter of weeks or months, but years of hard graft. And so, clubs lost members, but not to the extreme levels that they disappeared back into the dingy training halls of earlier years. Many thrived with a steady increase in students, losing others along the way, but retaining sufficient to keep going.

Then, as with the Bruce Lee films, along came another Hollywood Blockbuster that was to push martial arts back into the public domain...Karate Kid. The film was simple, a young lad being picked on by a group of Karate school bullies, boy comes across a Japanese janitor, who just happens to be a master in Karate....Mr Myagi. It was a wonderfully simplistic film, where, I am sure we all remember, the young lad, 'Daniel san' was taught the rudimentaries of Karate through washing a car! 'Wax on, wax off'.....marvelously clever analogy, from which he learnt everything he needed to do Karate! Of course, it is not that easy in reality, but here we had a film, which spawned 2 sequels, that suddenly showed that training was not only hard work, but could be fun as well!

And, what this film did that no other film before it had done, it attracted Children to the martial arts! It was truly a catalyst in the meteoric rise of martial arts clubs across the world, with parents rushing to sign up their kids to learn about this wonderful way of looking after yourself, of learning respect and discipline, and making their children better people for when they finally enter the world as Adults. Karate was the main benefactor of this boom, obviously I guess given the film's title, but the knock on effects were felt right across the various martial art styles. Popularity rose through more films, with stars such as Jackie Chan, who, with his unique blend of undoubted skills and comedy, made Chinese martial arts seem fun to learn. And so there we have it, a very brief history of the rise in popularity...But! Here we are in 2008, and despite all the publicity, do you know which martial art is which? I hope the following will give you some guidance:

Karate - Probably one the most recognised. There are several styles, which I will not elaborate too much on here, suffice to say that each does have it's differences, but each also has many of the same characteristics, namely a focus on traditional etiquette, discipline and hard work. Karate (meaning Empty Hand) is a very traditional martial art, where you will certainly learn respect for others. The main styles are Shotokan, Wado Ryu, Goju Ryu, and Shitu Ryu, though there are a great many more. Karate has also become one of the most 'bastardised' styles. There are a great many schools and organisations whose Chief Instructors have studied many of the styles, and have combined this knowledge to develop their own systems. These Organisations have developed their own curriculums and grading syllabus. Essentially they are still Karate, and, with the right club or organisation, you will learn a great deal about yourself.

Taekwondo (or Tae Kwon Do) - This is a Korean martial art, thousands of years old, but only really becoming popular in the past 20 or 30 years. The modern concept of Taekwondo was developed by General Choi in Korea during the 1950's. Today, there are two styles, ITF (International Taekwondo Federation) and WTF (World Taekwondo Federation). Both teach the same basic ideals. Taekwondo (meaning the way of hand and foot) is, predominantly, a martial art based around kicking techniques. Very spectacular and effective techniques, but those learning Taekwondo will also learn valuable hand techniques, and self defense. ITF Taekwondo is much closer to the original concept of General Choi. The WTF style has developed more into a Sport, and is, in fact, a recognised Olympic Sport. ITF sparring is semi contact, whereas, if you fancy your chances, the WTF style concentrates on full contact.

Judo - Judo means 'The Gentle Way'. It is a very modern art, and, in fact, is not really a martial art, but a sport. Judo is, however, a very effective self defense art, teaching you how to put locks and holds on an opponent, and how to throw. There are no kicks or punches in Judo. A well established Olympic sport, it offers an alternative to more traditional 'combat' style martial arts.

Kung Fu - A Chinese martial art. There are hundreds of styles available, the most popular today being Wing Chun. Bruce Lee was a famous exponent of Kung Fu, but he also studied many of it's various styles and developed his own Jeet Kune DO (JKD), a method of fighting that used real life street situations to develop an effective method of attack and defense.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - This is the fastest growing martial art style in the world today. Japanese Judo and Ju Jitsu masters exported their martial arts to Brazil around the 1940's and 50's, where it quickly gained popularity. A Brazilian family, the Gracies, took this knowledge and developed it into one of the most effective ground fighting systems known today. Although similar to Judo and Ju Jitsu, the Brazilian art concentrates much more on getting your opponent into a submission by locks, holds and chokes. It is, to many, a much more realistic method for the street, where rules do not exist.

MMA - Not really a martial art as such. MMA means 'Mixed Martial Arts'. It's origins are again Brazil, where it is known as Vale Tudo. Today, MMA, or perhaps you would know it better as 'cage fighting' is a huge sport, dominated by the UFC, Pride and Cage Rage. It has, for many, become an alternative to boxing. MMA is a 'no holds barred' sport, whereby opponents can punch, kick, elbow, knee and wrestle each other into submission, or, get a knockout. Very explosive, and certainly not for the faint hearted! Those in MMA will have also trained in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, as well as Karate, Taekwondo or other martial art style, hence the term Mixed Martial Arts.

Kickboxing - Probably the second largest participant club sport in the world. Developed by the Americans as an alternative to Boxing, Kickboxing is, as the name suggests, a Boxing sport, but you are also allowed to kick. Training is hard but rewarding. As well as traditional boxing techniques (jabs, hooks, crosses, ducking and weaving etc), you will also learn a variety of kicks, most of which derive from Taekwondo in style. In fact, many Taekwondo clubs will also run their own Kickboxing clubs, as the two styles compliment each other extremely well.

Choi Kwang Do - Another Korean art, this concentrates mostly on the practical side of 'what works in reality'. Kicks, generally, are not above the waist, and you will learn a variety of hand techniques, all designed to work 'on the street'.

Tai Chi - Another Chinese art. Often thought of as an 'old people's' martial art. Whilst it certainly lends itself well to the older generation, in my personal opinion, it should not be overlooked. It teaches meditation and relaxation, but also it teaches you to focus your inner energy, or Chi, very effectively.

In some ways, it is sad that, as a result of the modern age, there are also some excellent, but increasingly forgotten martial arts worth investigating. Aikido and Hapkido (Japanese and Korean respectively) have become victims of the increase in popularity of the more explosive martial arts. These are predominantly self defense systems, but incredibly effective. If you aren't sure, watch some of Steve Segal's early films. Segal is a world recognised master of Aikido, it is one of the single most effective martial arts for self defense, but, sadly, it receives little publicity nowadays. It's principles are the teaching of using your opponents own momentum for your own gain, it also teaches pressure points and restraints. Even if you study one of the more popular styles, Aikido or Hapkido are definitely worth considering as a second martial art.

Today, choosing which martial art you want to do is actually much easier than you think. A great many clubs will offer you a first lesson free, so take advantage of that fact, and go and try as many as you can. In this way, you can find out which one suits you best.

I will give a couple of words of caution!!

1. Do not be tempted to sign up to a membership or any payment plan on your first lesson, or even in the first 3 or 4 lessons. Make sure it is right for you first!

2. Avoid buying any uniform for the same period. Otherwise, if you decide it's not for you, you will have wasted your money.

3. Go along and watch a few classes first, before actually trying. Most clubs will let you watch. You will get a different perspective on the class teachings this way.

4. Talk to other members, or even the Instructors. Nobody will mind you asking questions. Believe it or not, the vast majority of clubs are not interested in just taking your money only to see you leave. They want you longterm, because they genuinely want to teach you and see you develop.

There are, unfortunately, plenty of organisations out there who will happily take your money. The 'McDojo' as they are derogatorily referred to by our American friends are out there, waiting for the unsuspecting student or parent. These will try the hard sell, some even go cold canvassing onto the streets! Don't be easily tempted by promises of a Black Belt in a few weeks or months, it simply doesn't happen that way.

So, how long will it take to get a Black Belt? Well, on average, you should allow a minimum of 3 years, and that is based upon a lot of hard work, and regular weekly training, at least twice a week! And remember also, a Black Belt does not mean you are an expert! On the contrary, getting your Black Belt is merely akin to completing your apprenticeship of learning...Once you get your Black Belt, the real learning starts, it is your doorway to a wealth of knowledge and experience that awaits you on the other side.

Too many people look at trying to grade every 3 months, which is fine. But, it is not how quick you get your Black Belt that counts, it is EARNING your Black Belt that will make it most satisfying.

Learning to defend yourself, and others, is only one aspect of Martial Arts, but Martial Arts is not about learning violence. It is, and remains, one of the most effective methods of fitness in the World. It will teach you confidence, respect, both for yourself and others, you will learn discipline and above all, you will learn how to become a respected and well rounded individual.

And when you do decide which martial art to practise, don't be afraid to check out just where you can get your equipment. Often your Instructors can supply you the equipment you need, but if you feel their prices are too high, check out the Internet of a Martial Arts Magazine for guidance. Instructors do, on the whole sell to you at the same price, but unfortunately some like to try and make a fair nit more if they can. Fortunately, the boom in Martial Arts has also seen a boom in the choice of Martial Arts Supplies available. So, whatever you do decide to practise, you will also be spoilt for choice as to where you can go to kit yourself out!

So go on, give it a try, and you will never look back!

Steve Turner Black Eagle Martial Arts Equipment