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Four key differences between martial arts and self-protection

This video is a follow up to “Five things martial artists get wrong about self-defence”. The message of that video was one that seemed to resonate with many. However, I also noticed a number of those expressing enthusiastic support for the video were making the very mistakes the video highlighted!

It seems many remain confused about what self-protection is. It then inevitably follows that they are also confused about the differences between self-protection and martial arts / fighting. In this video I cover four key differences:

• Different Goals

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Five things martial artists get wrong about self-defence

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.

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Advisors Not Rulers: Martial Arts and Life

A short video on one way in which the martial arts crossover to everyday life. Martial arts can teach us to be very aware of our bodies and emotions while ensuring they remain advisors and not rulers.

This video was filmed immediately after some cold-water swimming. Don’t be tempted to do this! It can be extremely dangerous if you don’t know what you are doing!

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Gekisaidai Ichi Flow Drill

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

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Three Ways to Solo Train Throws

In this video we cover three ways you can solo train throws. Obviously, nothing is better than a partner and there is no substitute for live practise. However, on occasions where a partner is not available, we can still work some elements of throwing. This video shows how we can:

1) Practice throwing movements solo with no equipment

2) Practice throwing movements solo with a belt and secure anchor point

3) Practise throwing movement solo with a punch bag and a belt

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If you are going throuhg hell ...

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.

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Breaking Posture with Thigh Kick and Pull

Some recent dojo footage. This video is primarily about kicking the thigh in order to break posture. However, other bunkai concepts are also included i.e. “Husband and Wife Hands” (using proprioception to locate targets in the mess of combat), Tactical Positioning (the combative use of the kata embusen), Continual Advantage, etc. The video also includes references to the application of many kata methods including Naihanchi, Neiesieshi (Nijushiho), Passai (Bassai-Dai), Seishan (Hangetsu), etc. I hope you find it interesting.

All the best,

Iain

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Martial Arts vs. The Coronavirus: Advice for Students, Instructors and School Owners

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.

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The Shuhari Concept: Imitate, Innovate, Invent

While it may seem like an oxymoron, the traditional arts have always been evolving and changing. Indeed, to try to stifle that change is not only harmful, it’s also not traditional!

“Times change, the world changes, and obviously the martial arts must change too.” – Gichin Funakoshi

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Traditional Things I DO and Why

This is a follow-up video to the one called, “Traditional Things I Do NOT Do and Why” that was uploaded last week. In response to questions and feedback, this video looks at some misunderstandings that arose and explains why I still do the following traditional things:

1) Use Japanese Terminology

2) Wear a Gi

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