In this video we discuss the concept of “sen” and the three timings for seizing the combative initiative. We cover the strengths and limitations of each kind of sen in both consensual fighting and self-protection. We also look at the limitations of the idea when we move from academia to application. The concept of sen is often expressed in subtly different ways across the martial arts. This video is therefore not intended to a definitive and universal guide, but instead to share my personal take on this concept.

All the best,

Iain

My thoughts on the greatest martial arts movie of all time! Discussions so far would suggest I’m out on a limb with my view … BUT please watch the whole video so you know where I’m coming from. Hopefully, you will find my take on things entertaining and interesting even if you disagree.

This video quickly runs through a flow drill and a pad drill for Saifa kata. The purpose of such drills is the time efficient practice of the core methods of the related kata. To fully realise the value of kata we also need to include bunkai based live drills, semi-live drills, many other pad drills, variation drills, etc in our practise. When any drill is isolated from the whole its purpose and value can become obscured. For detailed instruction on these drills, and all related methods, please check out the iain abernethy app.

All the best,

Iain

Martial arts instructors are often the worst self-protection instructors. The key reason for this failing is that they are not sure what self-protection actually is and they incorrectly assume it is one and the same as martial arts or fighting. The truth is they are radically different. While there is some crossover, the fact remains that only a very small part of martial arts and fighting has relevance to self-protection and vice versa. Sadly, most martial artists don’t grasp this and as a result teach self-protection very poorly without realising.