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.

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

All the best,

Iain

Every week I post a message in my app to tell subscribers about that week’s new additions. For the last few weeks, we’ve also been discussing the current situation and potential ways in which we can take care of ourselves and each other. These seems to be going down well. So, in the hope this is of some use to some of you, I’m also going to post this one here.

“If you are going through hell, keep going.” – Winston Churchill.

Considering current world events, martial arts are not that important in the great scheme of things. However, they do matter to martial artists! They are part of your identity and a major part of your lifestyle. For some, martial arts are also your profession and how you provide for the needs of your family.