Master B's Web log

I once quit karate. I began karate when I was 16 years old. I was at the rank of yellow belt and trained twice per week and really enjoying the classes. It was a dream come true for me to find my salvation in karate training. I was getting stronger, learning self defenses and slowly building my confidence.  This training was everything I had hoped for. It was summer, June I think when I was doing some work in my car to install a new 8 track (you remember those don’t you?). I had contorted my body to get under the dashboard when I twisted the wrong way and threw out my back. Pain shot down into my lower back so badly I was now unable to extricate myself from this position. I tried, i squirmed, I pushed and I pulled but this condition was getting worse by the minute. Just then my Father came walking into the garage. I yelled to him I need some help and he grabbed me by the ankles and pulled me out. With this help I was able to get to a crooked but standing position and limp back in

I couldn't have said it better myself, so instead let my friend, martial arts guru Tom Callos say it instead. Kids who immerse themselves in martial arts practice don’t end up being the victims of bullies in school, they’re left alone, as bullies most usually pick on kids they know aren’t going to stand up for themselves. Kids who study the martial arts also usually end up being adults —who don’t get bullied in the workplace. Kids who practice the martial arts hang out with teens and adults who practice the martial arts —and those are most often people who value physical exercise, good nutrition, calmness under pressure, and who set goals and methodically —and with no small amount of effort, —set out to achieve them. Not a bad crowd to hang out with at all. Kids who study the martial arts often hear power words like “respect,” “courtesy,” “focus,” “compassion,” “kindness,” and “perseverance” 10,000 times more than any TV show or any amount of computer time provides in the sam

I just read an article with a quote by martial arts legend Dan Inosanto that struck me and is relevant as Sbn Duethorn and I have been discussing this topic. This is for older martial artists. “The most difficult part of your training- at this point in your life and going forward- will be knowing when to sit out.” When I had my knee replaced two years ago I showed my Doctor a photo of me stomp kicking through about two feet of concrete.  I told him I would let the young Black Belts do that now. I no longer push myself to do bear crawls and crab walks. I have long time martial arts friends who now do Asian archery and sword practice.  I can see why. I can still kick head high after a good warmup with no pain or distress but I don’t do explosiveness drills like I used to.  I still kick and punch but don’t go crazy. I do miss all the tournament prep and competition.  But now, I teach, coach, mentor and enjoy the ride. Stay training, but warm up well and

Meeting Grandmaster Rhee was a fantastic experience. Known as the Father of American Tae kwon do and inventor of safety equipment he made his mark in the martial arts world. What impressed me the most was the question he asked at the beginning of his seminar. What is the purpose of life? ”To be happy” he responded. Grandmaster, I will never forget.