The PaSaRyu Blog

Speed of Techniques

2012-01-02T07:28:00.000-08:00

Whenever we practice a set of techniques in class, we all have the tendency to try and speed things up although this often comes to the detriment of the technique itself. Whether we’re talking Promised Sparing, HapKiDo Cane, Stick, or PaSaRyu forms, we have to be continually reminding ourselves and students that a quicker speed rarely equates to a more effective technique.

Slow is smooth, smooth is fast. This was a saying I picked up in the Marines and it didn’t completely sink in until years later. How can going slower improve the speed? Concentrating on the technique and smoothness will sharpen the effectiveness of the technique. The effectiveness of the technique is often confused or attributed with the speed. Focus on the technique by slowing down. Proper execution will produce smooth techniques that will appear and provide the quickness desired. It is often hard to explain to students that the slower you execute the technique, the faster it will become.

For 2012, the theme will remain – Slow is smooth, smooth is fast.

Go faster by slowing down.

SUN!

Mr. Dragon

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T14:36:00.000-08:00

To all my brothers and sisters in Martial Arts, Happy Thanksgiving!

As was the theme this week for the Dynamite classes - Appreciation: Showing gratitude for what others do for you - and returning the kindness.

Best wishes and thank you all for the support you've given Niki and I.

Mr. Dragon

Breath Control

2011-11-10T11:17:00.000-08:00

As I transition into solo training for the time being, I am reminded how important, subtle, and elusive effective breath control can be.

Even though we stress the breathing aspect in the warmup exercises and stretching, I encourage you to continue to focus on your breath control during kicks, punching and striking drills as well as your form practice. Hapkido is no different...proper breath control can really enhance a technique.

Thoughts?

SUN!

Checking in

2011-11-04T19:44:00.000-07:00

Well We survived the trip and are settling in here. It all seems real nice.

I have set up some strength training equipment, but have not resumed any type of training yet.

Having that class and a gym to go to every day for the past 20 years or so was a big motivator and always something to look forward to. It will be a challenge to get going on our own, but I am getting prett itchy to resume somehow.

Hope everyone is well...SUN!

The Changing of the Guard

2011-10-15T14:40:00.000-07:00

I would like to announce that on October 20th 2011, Mr. Matt Dowds will officially take over as chief instuctor at Central WI Martial Arts. I have absolutely no doubt that he will be a total success and the program will flourish under his guidance. Please join me in extending my congratulations to him and his beautiful family.

I would also like to extend my sincere gratitude to all the wonderful people I've had the honor of calling my students over the past 15 years or so. I really had a great time.

I look forward to remaining in close contact with everyone and will be remaining in close contact with Mr. Dowds and the instructor committee.

My next goal is to establish PSR in the Southeast and I will begin to work on that within the near future.

SUN!

2011-10-02T09:45:00.000-07:00

I recently took a group of green through red belts through a detailed analyses of Sah Dan (this was at a class time that I don't normally attend). At the end, after the bow, one of the red belts, (probably 13 yrs old), asked if I could show them some self-defense techniques. (I cringe at that term. I prefer "self-protection or self-preservation".)

"Do you mean some MORE self defense techniques?" I said.

"Huh?" he said.

I replied, "Son, we just did over 30 of them. It was called PaSaRyu Sah Dan."

TcB

Train with purpose...

2011-09-30T21:47:00.000-07:00

"Train with purpose; the more you sweat in the gym, the less you bleed on the street."

— Dr. Jerry Beasley

Snatch the Pebble

2011-09-14T11:01:00.000-07:00

Our lives journey is filled with many phases.
Knowing when to proceed from one phase to the next or in other words, knowing when to attempt to snatch the pebble and move forward, can often be the most challenging part of it all.

It is easy for us to remain in a state of routine and normalcy while avoiding change, never thinking about snatching the pebble. We all know however that doing so can often lead to stagnation and feelings of "what if ...".

The journey of life travels at warp speed. I believe it is very important for us to always keep an eye on the horizon, laying out our plans and dreams for our next phase. Whether it's tomorrow, next week, next month, next year, etc.

What desire do you have for your next phase? Are you prepared to pursue it? Are you willing to sacrifice to succeed in you next phase? Chose to snatch your pebble and press forward with eagerness to experience and ceis that next phase. It's certainly worth trying and at a minimum, it will help keep us infused with hope for a better tomorrow.

Sun!

Splitting a Log

2011-08-11T09:01:00.000-07:00

Lessons learned form splitting wood.

It has been my experience that many of life's lessons have been taught to me in some of the most improbable and seemingly unconnected events. There have been many instances when laboring at some mindless and exhausting task, my thoughts have turned to something else and how what I am doing parallels another undertaking and the principles of success at one, contributes to success at the other.

EXAMPLE: We have a wood-burning furnace in our home which not only saves us money on our winter heating bill, but provides a cozy warm atmosphere which you do not get from gas or electric heat. Cutting, splitting and stacking wood is hard work but the benefits make the effort worthwhile. Aside from the obvious financial benefits there are others.....

First of all splitting logs with a 12lb splitting wedge is excellent total body exercise.

I practice my KiAi's when splitting...I swing that wedge with all my strength and when it makes contact with the log...here comes the KiAi...I can tell if they are good KiAi's when my neighbors come running out to check on the noise...where all that yelling is coming from.

When splitting a large log,(I pick the largest ones first...while I have the most energy) I KNOW it will take more than one blow to split it...The first swing is just to plant the point of the wedge as deep as I can and to let the log know I mean business...and after two or three more swings and it still remains intact.. I'm getting a little tired...I Know it is ready to split on the next swing...and I KNOW I don't want to hit it again...so I put EVERYTHING into the swing. And even if it doesn't split on that swing...I know it will on the next one...or the one after that...I know I am so close to success...the next stroke will open it up...The point is ..I KNOW it is going to split...it's just a matter of how hard I hit it...and that will determine how many times I have to hit it. This is a good mindset for everything in the Martial Arts...from learning basics to actual kicking and punching in the sparring ring.

The only way you WILL NOT LEARN...is if you QUIT! Keep practicing that difficult move until it becomes easy!

The first jab or kick is to make an impression...let you opponent know ...set the point of your attack...weaken the defenses...see how hard it is going to be to penetrate...see how tough he is..let him know you will not quit until the task is accomplished. Then keep attacking that weak point until you overpower him with your unrelenting commitment to success.

It is called RESOLVE!
Finish the task at hand!

SUN!

Sheep, Wolves, and Sheepdogs

2011-07-13T12:01:00.000-07:00

A rather long post, but worth the read. Thanks to Mr. Watters for passing this along to us.

SUN!

On Sheep, Wolves, and Sheepdogs

One Vietnam veteran, an old retired colonel, once said this to me:

“Most of the people in our society are sheep. They are kind, gentle, productive creatures who can only hurt one another by accident.” This is true. Remember, the murder rate is six per 100,000 per year, and the aggravated assault rate is four per 1,000 per year. What this means is that the vast majority of Americans are not inclined to hurt one another. Some estimates say that two million Americans are victims of violent crimes every year, a tragic, staggering number, perhaps an all-time record rate of violent crime. But there are almost 300 million Americans, which means that the odds of being a victim of violent crime is considerably less than one in a hundred on any given year. Furthermore, since many violent crimes are committed by repeat offenders, the actual number of violent citizens is considerably less than two million.

Thus there is a paradox, and we must grasp both ends of the situation: We may well be in the most violent times in history, but violence is still remarkably rare. This is because most citizens are kind, decent people who are not capable of hurting each other, except by accident or under extreme provocation. They are sheep.

I mean nothing negative by calling them sheep. To me it is like the pretty, blue robin’s egg. Inside it is soft and gooey but someday it will grow into something wonderful. But the egg cannot survive without its hard blue shell. Police officers, soldiers, and other warriors are like that shell, and someday the civilization they protect will grow into something wonderful. For now, though, they need warriors to protect them from the predators.

“Then there are the wolves,” the old war veteran said, “and the wolves feed on the sheep without mercy.” Do you believe there are wolves out there who will feed on the flock without mercy? You better believe it. There are evil men in this world and they are capable of evil deeds. The moment you forget that or pretend it is not so, you become a sheep. There is no safety in denial.

“Then there are sheepdogs,” he went on, “and I’m a sheepdog. I live to protect the flock and confront the wolf.”

If you have no capacity for violence then you are a healthy productive citizen, a sheep. If you have a capacity for violence and no empathy for your fellow citizens, then you have defined an aggressive sociopath, a wolf. But what if you have a capacity for violence, and a deep love for your fellow citizens? What do you have then: A sheepdog, a warrior, someone who is walking the hero’s path. Someone who can walk into the heart of darkness, into the universal human phobia, and walk out unscathed

Let me expand on this old soldier’s excellent model of the sheep, wolves, and sheepdogs. We know that the sheep live in denial, that is what makes them sheep. They do not want to believe that there is evil in the world. They can accept the fact that fires can happen, which is why they want fire extinguishers, fire sprinklers, fire alarms and fire exits throughout their kids’ schools.

But many of them are outraged at the idea of putting an armed police officer in their kid’s school. Our children are thousands of times more likely to be killed or seriously injured by school violence than fire, but the sheep’s only response to the possibility of violence is denial. The idea of someone coming to kill or harm their child is just too hard, and so they chose the path of denial.

The sheep generally do not like the sheepdog. He looks a lot like the wolf. He has fangs and the capacity for violence. The difference, though, is that the sheepdog must not, can not and will not ever harm the sheep. Any sheep dog who intentionally harms the lowliest little lamb will be punished and removed. The world cannot work any other way, at least not in a representative democracy or a republic such as ours.

Still, the sheepdog disturbs the sheep. He is a constant reminder that there are wolves in the land. They would prefer that he didn’t tell them where to go, or give them traffic tickets, or stand at the ready in our airports in camouflage fatigues holding an M-16. The sheep would much rather have the sheepdog cash in his fangs, spray paint himself white, and go, “Baa.”

Until the wolf shows up, then the entire flock tries desperately to hide behind one lonely sheepdog.

The students, the victims, at Columbine High School were big, tough high school students, and under ordinary circumstances they would not have had the time of day for a police officer. They were not bad kids; they just had nothing to say to a cop. When the school was under attack, however, and SWAT teams were clearing the rooms and hallways, the officers had to physically peel those clinging, sobbing kids off of them. This is how the little lambs feel about their sheepdog when the wolf is at the door.

Look at what happened after September 11, 2001 when the wolf pounded hard on the door. Remember how America, more than ever before, felt differently about their law enforcement officers and military personnel? Remember how many times you heard the word hero?

Understand that there is nothing morally superior about being a sheepdog; it is just what you choose to be. Also understand that a sheepdog is a funny critter: He is always sniffing around out on the perimeter, checking the breeze, barking at things that go bump in the night, and yearning for a righteous battle. That is, the young sheepdogs yearn for a righteous battle. The old sheepdogs are a little older and wiser, but they move to the sound of the guns when needed right along with the young ones.

Here is how the sheep and the sheepdog think differently. The sheep pretend the wolf will never come, but the sheepdog lives for that day. After the attacks on September 11, 2001, most of the sheep, that is, most citizens in America said, “Thank God I wasn’t on one of those planes.” The sheepdogs, the warriors, said, “Dear God, I wish I could have been on one of those planes. Maybe I could have made a difference.” When you are truly transformed into a warrior and have truly invested yourself into warriorhood, you want to be there. You want to be able to make a difference.

There is nothing morally superior about the sheepdog, the warrior, but he does have one real advantage. Only one. And that is that he is able to survive and thrive in an environment that destroys 98 percent of the population. There was research conducted a few years ago with individuals convicted of violent crimes. These cons were in prison for serious, predatory crimes of violence: assaults, murders and killing law enforcement officers. The vast majority said that they specifically targeted victims by body language: slumped walk, passive behavior and lack of awareness. They chose their victims like big cats do in Africa, when they select one out of the herd that is least able to protect itself.

Some people may be destined to be sheep and others might be genetically primed to be wolves or sheepdogs. But I believe that most people can choose which one they want to be, and I’m proud to say that more and more Americans are choosing to become sheepdogs.

Seven months after the attack on September 11, 2001, Todd Beamer was honored in his hometown of Cranbury, New Jersey. Todd, as you recall, was the man on Flight 93 over Pennsylvania who called on his cell phone to alert an operator from United Airlines about the hijacking. When he learned of the other three passenger planes that had been used as weapons, Todd dropped his phone and uttered the words, “Let’s roll,” which authorities believe was a signal to the other passengers to confront the terrorist hijackers. In one hour, a transformation occurred among the passengers – athletes, business people and parents. — from sheep to sheepdogs and together they fought the wolves, ultimately saving an unknown number of lives on the ground.

There is no safety for honest men except by believing all possible evil of evil men. – Edmund Burke

Here is the point I like to emphasize, especially to the thousands of police officers and soldiers I speak to each year. In nature the sheep, real sheep, are born as sheep. Sheepdogs are born that way, and so are wolves. They didn’t have a choice. But you are not a critter. As a human being, you can be whatever you want to be. It is a conscious, moral decision.

If you want to be a sheep, then you can be a sheep and that is okay, but you must understand the price you pay. When the wolf comes, you and your loved ones are going to die if there is not a sheepdog there to protect you. If you want to be a wolf, you can be one, but the sheepdogs are going to hunt you down and you will never have rest, safety, trust or love. But if you want to be a sheepdog and walk the warrior’s path, then you must make a conscious and moral decision every day to dedicate, equip and prepare yourself to thrive in that toxic, corrosive moment when the wolf comes knocking at the door.

For example, many officers carry their weapons in church. They are well concealed in ankle holsters, shoulder holsters or inside-the-belt holsters tucked into the small of their backs.? Anytime you go to some form of religious service, there is a very good chance that a police officer in your congregation is carrying. You will never know if there is such an individual in your place of worship, until the wolf appears to massacre you and your loved ones.

I was training a group of police officers in Texas, and during the break, one officer asked his friend if he carried his weapon in church. The other cop replied, “I will never be caught without my gun in church.” I asked why he felt so strongly about this, and he told me about a cop he knew who was at a church massacre in Ft. Worth, Texas in 1999. In that incident, a mentally deranged individual came into the church and opened fire, gunning down fourteen people. He said that officer believed he could have saved every life that day if he had been carrying his gun. His own son was shot, and all he could do was throw himself on the boy’s body and wait to die. That cop looked me in the eye and said, “Do you have any idea how hard it would be to live with yourself after that?”

Some individuals would be horrified if they knew this police officer was carrying a weapon in church. They might call him paranoid and would probably scorn him. Yet these same individuals would be enraged and would call for “heads to roll” if they found out that the airbags in their cars were defective, or that the fire extinguisher and fire sprinklers in their kids’ school did not work. They can accept the fact that fires and traffic accidents can happen and that there must be safeguards against them.

Their only response to the wolf, though, is denial, and all too often their response to the sheepdog is scorn and disdain. But the sheepdog quietly asks himself, “Do you have and idea how hard it would be to live with yourself if your loved ones attacked and killed, and you had to stand there helplessly because you were unprepared for that day?”

It is denial that turns people into sheep. Sheep are psychologically destroyed by combat because their only defense is denial, which is counterproductive and destructive, resulting in fear, helplessness and horror when the wolf shows up.

Denial kills you twice. It kills you once, at your moment of truth when you are not physically prepared: you didn’t bring your gun, you didn’t train. Your only defense was wishful thinking. Hope is not a strategy. Denial kills you a second time because even if you do physically survive, you are psychologically shattered by your fear helplessness and horror at your moment of truth.

Gavin de Becker puts it like this in Fear Less, his superb post-9/11 book, which should be required reading for anyone trying to come to terms with our current world situation: “…denial can be seductive, but it has an insidious side effect. For all the peace of mind deniers think they get by saying it isn’t so, the fall they take when faced with new violence is all the more unsettling.”

Denial is a save-now-pay-later scheme, a contract written entirely in small print, for in the long run, the denying person knows the truth on some level.

And so the warrior must strive to confront denial in all aspects of his life, and prepare himself for the day when evil comes. If you are warrior who is legally authorized to carry a weapon and you step outside without that weapon, then you become a sheep, pretending that the bad man will not come today. No one can be “on” 24/7, for a lifetime. Everyone needs down time. But if you are authorized to carry a weapon, and you walk outside without it, just take a deep breath, and say this to yourself…

“Baa.”

This business of being a sheep or a sheep dog is not a yes-no dichotomy. It is not an all-or-nothing, either-or choice. It is a matter of degrees, a continuum. On one end is an abject, head-in-the-sand-sheep and on the other end is the ultimate warrior. Few people exist completely on one end or the other. Most of us live somewhere in between. Since 9-11 almost everyone in America took a step up that continuum, away from denial. The sheep took a few steps toward accepting and appreciating their warriors, and the warriors started taking their job more seriously. The degree to which you move up that continuum, away from sheephood and denial, is the degree to which you and your loved ones will survive, physically and psychologically at your moment of truth.

Wash the Window, Peel the Onion, Work the Mine

2011-07-04T06:30:00.000-07:00

That's how it feels sometimes when doing any kata, but especially the basic ones that I've done uncountable times. It gets cleaner and more useful, old layers come off and reveal the inner substance, I find valuable nuggets that are often just laying there and huge veins that required more work to expose and even more to extract.

It may not be only techniques of delivery and avoidance that are brought to light. Sometimes the enlightenment may be in teaching technique. For instance, How to best convey the kata and/or purposes to a student. Sometimes it may be more philosophical.

Whichever or whatever, they all conspire to make me a better martial artist when I take time to practice kata with thoughtfulness.

Those were the results of Sahm Dan yesterday and Sah Dan today.

I love weekends and holidays!

SUN!

TcB

Water

2011-06-15T09:24:00.000-07:00

A note forwarded to me by a friend.
I can't speak on it's level of validity but nevertheless - a good topic to be conscious of during the summer months.
Falcon-

When to Drink Water - From a Cardiac Specialist

Correct Time to Drink Water.....Very Important.

This is interesting!! I knew you need your minimum water to flush the toxins out of your body, but this was news to me.

Correct Time to Drink Water....Very Important

From A Cardiac Specialist!

Drinking water at certain time maximizes its effectiveness on the body:

2 glasses of water after waking up - helps activate internal organs

1 glass of water 30 minutes before a meal - helps digestion

1 glass of water before taking a bath - helps lower blood pressure

1 glass of water before going to bed - avoids stroke or heart attack

Dialogs

2011-05-28T08:58:00.000-07:00

It is never easy to deal with the death of a loved one. Our lives revolve around, and we are the reflection of, the relationships we have forged with others and the ongoing dialog that ensues. That dialog can last minutes, years, or decades. Frequently there is mutual closure of the conversation and we move on with satisfaction. But then, there are those conversations that end abruptly leaving you longing for another sentence to add, even if it's just to say "goodbye, I love you, it's been fun."

This week my honorable, industrious father had successful surgery to place a stint in a neck vein. That evening he laid back to take a nap and suffered a cerebral hemorrhage and went into a coma from which he never awoke.

The next day, after receiving the report that Dad would not survive more than a few days, my sweet, frail, courageous mom suffered a broken heart and died two days later surrounded by family who desperately wanted the conversation to continue just a little while longer. Dad followed her into Paradise 3 days later as I held his hand and spoke but he could not hear. They had been married 68 years.

Take from this what you will. We are all just one breath from eternity. It would sound trite to recommend you treat every goodbye as the final one. But I will tell you this, a conversation abruptly ended when your cell phone drops is annoying but will soon be continued. A dialog interrupted by death leaves you empty. My only comfort, and it is considerable, is that Christ conquered death and the relationship will continue in the future.

I said "goodbye, I love you, it's been fun", to both of my parents yesterday. There was no reply this time.

TcB

Condolences

2011-05-27T08:31:00.000-07:00

I want to express my deepest sympathies to Master Crane on the recent loss of both his parents. The unusual circumstances and dealing with it all have to be overwhelming.
I hope you can eventually find some relief and peace my friend.

Take a Break

2011-05-26T06:41:00.000-07:00

Master Hawk,

You have hosted many "Break Nights" where students, even white belts if I'm not mistaken, take part in the study and application of breaking bricks.

Would you please describe the technique involved, including weight, control, penetration, focus and the physics behind it all?

I am always amazed at what you pull out of your students and the results that follow.

SUN!

TcB

Jang Kwon Kong Keock

2011-05-06T20:59:00.000-07:00

Andy Osborne "Mr. Snake"

2011-05-02T10:30:00.000-07:00

I regret to inform you that on April 12th, our Mr. Snake, Andy Osborne passed away.
His Mother emailed me with the news yesterday. He was 32 years old. She expressed that his Martial Arts training was a high point in his life. They are planning a memorial get together on May 14. Please let me know if you would like more details about that.
Andy and I had kept in touch after he moved to Madison to pursue writing and acting. He also had continued martial arts, studying Chinese Kempo.
Those of us who trained with him remember what a character he was and how serious and sincere he was about training. He was always right there with an enthusiastic "SUN!" I really liked him and wish somehow I could have done more for him.

Reiki

2011-04-07T06:27:00.000-07:00

Has anyone ever heard of, or used, Reiki (ray-key)? What did you think? SUN!

Way to Go Guys!

2011-04-03T21:23:00.000-07:00

I would like to extend another congratulations to a few of our blog guys: Mr. Dragon and Fox, Matt and Hunter Dowds - 1st dan Mr. Cline and Mr Watters - Red Belts.... (I know there were others, but I don't think they follow this blog) You guys really put on a great demonstration and always bring a high level of professionalism with you every time you come to class. I want you to know it is greatly appreciated by everyone involved, especially myself. SUN!

PSR Rank Requirements

2011-03-31T15:18:00.000-07:00

I recieved a updated rank requirement sheet from PSR headquarters today. I was wondering if there were always minimum age requirements for BB ranks in PSR? Example: 5th Dan minimum age 34, 6th age 39, 8th age 54, etc. I don't have any problem with any of this, I just never was aware of it. SUN!

A Nice Visit

2011-03-20T08:13:00.000-07:00

One of the many benefits of doing a kata every day is visiting with every kata at least once a month. "Visiting" is the key word here. "Focusing" might have applied just as well but "visiting" to me connotes an enjoyable time spent somewhere you like to be.

When all you have on the agenda is just one form, then you can get to know every nook and cranny of it. And in the process, deficiencies in technique can be noted and corrected or questions about efficacy and function can be answered.

Now, I realize that we frequently do every form in the course of one or more classes even in just one week. But, while the perfunctory performing of forms may have its place in laying down a path in the brain and muscle memory in the body, not to mention the aerobic benefits, it is not the same as a thoughtful examination of a single form done in a private space.

For me, some of the katas are more like an annoying uncle coming to visit rather than a close friend. That's fine. Visit with them too and you may be surprised at the treasures they hold.

We just don't want ANY of the katas to become long lost relatives or friends. Stay in touch!

For those of you who do not yet have 30 katas in your repertoire it may be useful to incorporate the yahk soak deta (promise sparing) sets, broken up as necessary, to fill in the days.

And no one says that the kata of the day can only be visited once that day. Or that the whole kata must be done during the visit. I generally try to stretch at least twice a day and I do the forms after my stretching. See what works for you.

SUN!

TcB

This week's katas

2011-03-17T20:47:00.000-07:00

Saturday, the 12th was Chul Kee Il Dan; 13th, ShipSoo; 14, Dan Kwon Cong Keeock; 15, Dan Kwon Bahng Auh; 16th, Chul Kee Ee Dan, 17th, Yun Bee.

Tomorrow will be Kong Sahn Kuhn

Is anyone else following this order?

SUN!

2011-03-11T18:48:00.000-08:00

Am Hak received my undivided attention today. Yesterday was Chil Bo, and Wednesday was Il Soo.

It is nice not rushing in order to complete several kata. I spend 10-15 min. on the one. Techniques get repeated and improved (hopefully). Applications are tried.

I am particularly enamored with Il Soo. I am looking forward to the next class when I can have a live opponent. My imaginary opponents don't stand a chance (although one got a lucky shot in today!)

Tomorrow, the 12th,....Chul Kee Il Dan

SUN!

TcB

What's your lineup?

2011-03-08T17:00:00.000-08:00

Today, as I type this, it is the 8th day of the month. For me that means Bal Sae So. I mined it deep. I thought I had exhausted this vein, but no, there were nuggets everywhere. Perhaps I'm just a better miner now. Whatever the case, I have much to work on. I feel like a beginner.

Tomorrow is Il Soo.

SUN!

TcB

A Kata a Day

2011-03-03T20:02:00.000-08:00

Hmmm. 30 forms in our system (depending on how you count the two-person katas) and 30 days in a month. I'm just saying..... a form a day keeps the mediocrity away. If you are not up to 30 katas yet in your PaSaRyu journey then toss in the Yahk Soak Detas or Master Hawks Hapkido sets.

I personally like them in the a.m. after the stretch. Slow and deliberate, like a meditation.

SUN!

Something for sore joints and muscles

2011-02-28T09:02:00.000-08:00

I've had good luck applying a product called Biofreeze to joint and muscle problem areas. I first bought a tube of the gel from my local Chiropractor.

You can purchase it on-line at sites such as Amazon.com.

Here's a blurb about it that I found on-line. http://www.ehow.com/how-does_4679702_biofreeze-work.html

What is Biofreeze?
1. Biofreeze is a cold therapy treatment gel used as a therapeutic aid for sore or damaged muscles. Manufactured by Performance Health in Pennsylvania, Biofreeze is prescribed and used in the U.K. and the United States for quick relief of pain associated with muscle tissues.
Cold Therapy
2. Biofreeze is mostly used in cold therapy pain management. Biofreeze has the same impact on the body as an ice pack except it has the ability to infiltrate deeper into the muscle. Cold therapy is the process in which the area of an injury is cooled below the average body temperature. Since heat is known to increase blood flow to the area in which it is applied, cold does the opposite and reduces the blood flow to the affected area. This process, also referred to as cryotherapy, reduces the ability of your nerves to receive and send pain stimuli. The cold also works as a way to decrease the swelling in the affected area.
What Is it Made of?
3. Biofreeze uses an herb called Ilex. This herb is extracted from a holly plant in South America and then shipped to Pennsylvania to be made into Biofreeze. Ilex acts as an instant cold application and also helps the gel sink deeper through the skin's layers.
Applications and Availability
4. Biofreeze can be used for physical therapy, massage therapy, arthritis pains, strained muscles, sports injuries, exercise training and patient care. Biofreeze is not available through pharmacies or drugstores. Only licensed health care providers can sell Biofreeze. However, you do not need a prescription to buy or use the product.

Read more: How Does Biofreeze Work? | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/how-does_4679702_biofreeze-work.html#ixzz1E368icNO

Best of Health,
Falcon

What is your favorite strength training program?

2011-02-18T10:41:00.000-08:00

What type of strength training is your favorite and what do you feel is most helpful for your martial arts training?

Weights training, Isometric training, or Resistance training - or something else???
Please share what you do.

I enjoy weight training.
Approaching mid 40's, I still enjoy free weights and like the 10 to 20 rep range.
I find that my joints and tendons get sore and take longer to recover with lower reps (photo is not of me) - so I stick with the higher reps per set. Keeping movements very basic, I focus on slower rep speed and correct form. I have found Nautilus to be easier on the joints however and hope to use them more in coming years.

I've found that training 2 times per week has helped me considerably. I try to keep the sessions fast paced and can get a decent workout in - in 35 to 40 minutes. I'll change it up at times and do a split routine 3 days per week - training each body part only 1x per week in that case.

The biggest challenge I find is being consistent.

Always open for new ideas and suggestion.
Look forward to reading about what your favorite system is.
Sun!

2011-01-29T19:21:00.000-08:00

In my experience:

Stretching = Hurt/Feel Good, Hurt/Feel Good, Huuurt/Feel Good, Feel Good, Feel Good, Hurt.

SUN!

Congrats to Master Crane

2010-12-20T21:56:00.000-08:00

A most sincere congratulations goes out to our own Tim Baker "Master Crane" on being promoted to the rank of 8th degree black belt. Truly a milestone that few will ever reach.
SUN!

Your Top Three?

2010-12-17T20:28:00.000-08:00

What three kata (hyung) (single or two-person) do you consider the most physically challenging (read exhausting).

Mine are:

3. Yun Bee (possibly tied with Pal Kee Kwon)

2. Chul Kee (il,ee & sahm) Dan (done together)

1. Il Soo, Chil Bo (done together as a two-person kata_

Cardio Kata

2010-12-17T10:41:00.000-08:00

SUN!
I sometimes(maybe once a week) practice my Kata’s as cardio, performing each technique as though my very life depended on it(as it well may someday). I use my heart rate monitor to control my work and recovery, and intersperse slower patterns/activities between forms. Always remembering that we, “perform like we practice” and trying to maintain an uncompromising demand for technical perfection. Does anyone else use Kata, or Basics as cardiovascular exercise?
SUN!

MMA Fad: Big in Entertainment / Small in self improvment

2010-12-08T10:58:00.000-08:00

From what I can remember, we've seen the dominance of Karate in the 60's, Kung-Fu in the 70's, Ninja in the 80's and Tae kwon do in the 90's. Now MMA is THE thing.

How long will MMA reign at the top, is it good for Martial Arts and what will be the next fad?

MMA has taken the media and national public by storm through marketing, cage matches, and Pay Per View programming.

It looks like no other fad of the past and could subsequently have more staying power in the entertainment market. Staying power could be more brief in the market of active practicing martial artists however.

Many MMA schools are popping up and some existing/traditional schools are providing MMA as an add-on that is taught down the hall in the back room. From what I've read, many only train those who want to compete. This limits itself to a smaller portion of the active practicing martial artists. And lets face it, MMA with it's focus on competition, makes it a niche sport better suited for the younger population. These limiting factors will open the door to a new fad someday. Maybe not so much for the viewing public, but it will for the portion of the public that is active or interested in becoming active practicing martial artists.

It appears the popularity of MMA is probably good for all Martial Arts. It generates interest in self defense in the broad public market. I can't help but believe that it leads to more people becoming active in self defense which in turn leads people to other forms of Martial Arts. Traditional ones that provide more balance with more focus on overall self improvement. For example, some may try MMA and like portions of it but because they don't want to compete or find that it doesn't meet all their needs, they may become motivated to investigate other Arts - more rich in tradition and self improvement such as PSR.

Hard to predict what will become the next national Martial Art Fad or when. Put me down for PSR. It could happen!!

Sun!

Body Hardening

2010-11-23T14:10:00.001-08:00

This should be a debutable topic. I did extensive body hardening while in the corps and saw benifits from it. One such benifit was being able to absorb impacts to more tender part of the body such as inside of the thigh and the leading edge of my forarms that is used for elbow strikes. My question is have you did any of this training thru out the years and if so are there any downside to this like arthritis? I would imaging knuckles and wrist would be subject to this, but what about soft tissue such as inside of legs?

New Member

2010-11-22T13:20:00.000-08:00

Hello all,
My name is dee and I started training and learning Pasaryu in the early 90s as a kid and recieved 1st dan in 95 shortly after my school close in 96. I have not trained since 98 or 99 till now. Im on a journey to sharpen my technique and learn more the second round. I served 4 years in the Marine Corps as an infantryman and have a better understanding how training techniques translate to real world. With this better appreciation for technique I hope to discover things that I over looked as a child. Thus far all here have helped and alot of useful knowledge has been discussed in the past and I hope to maybe share something useful to you as well.

SUN!
Dee
(Mr. Falcon)

The Perfect Storm

2010-11-21T06:37:00.000-08:00

Ahhh.... A full moon, foggy mist, moderate temps, Toe Jo Sahn Cong-Bahng, Tae Ja Kwon, So Ho Yun. Good for the soul.

SUN!

Martial Arts Shoes

2010-11-15T22:17:00.000-08:00

I personally have not tried them yet. I remain barefoot.
Do you wear them?
What benefits do they provide you?

Do you recommend them?
What brand and model?
Are there any secrets to obtaining the ultimate size?
Does wearing them add stress to knee and ankle joints?
All opinions appreciated.

When to Eat Fruit

2010-11-04T10:53:00.000-07:00

I received an interesting e-mail from a friend recently regarding diet.
Specifically about one doctors recommendation on when to consume fruit.
I find it interesting. Any thoughts?
Best Regards.

Dr Stephen Mak treats terminally ill cancer patients by an "un-orthodox" way and many patients
have recovered. He believes in natural healing in the body against illnesses. See the article below.

Dear Shereen,

Thanks for the email on fruits and juices. It is one of the strategies to heal cancer. As of late, my success rate in curing cancer is about 80%. Cancer patients shouldn't die. The cure for cancer is already found. It is whether you believe it or not. I am sorry for the hundreds of cancer patients who die under the conventional treatments.

Thanks and God bless.

Dr Stephen Mak

EATING FRUIT...

We all think eating fruit means just buying fruit, cutting it and just popping it into our mouths. It's not as easy as you think. It's important to know how and WHEN to eat fruit.

What is the correct way of eating fruits?

IT MEANS NOT EATING FRUITS AFTER YOUR MEALS!

* FRUITS SHOULD BE EATEN ON AN EMPTY STOMACH.

If you eat fruit like that, it will play a major role to detoxify your system, supplying you with a great deal of energy for weight loss and other life activities.

FRUIT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT FOOD. Let's say you eat two slices of bread and then a slice of fruit. The slice of fruit is ready to go straight through the stomach into the intestines, but it is prevented from doing so.

In the meantime the whole meal rots and ferments and turns to acid. The minute the fruit comes into contact with the food in the stomach and digestive juices, the entire mass of food begins to spoil....

So please eat your fruits on an empty stomach or before your meals! You have heard people complaining — every time I eat watermelon I burp, when I eat durian my stomach bloats up, when I eat a banana I feel like running to the toilet, etc — actually all this will not arise if you eat the fruit on an empty stomach. The fruit mixes with the putrefying other food and produces gas and hence you will bloat!

Graying hair, balding, nervous outburst, and dark circles under the eyes - all these will NOT happen if you take fruits on an empty stomach.

There is no such thing as some fruits, like orange and lemon, that are acidic, because all fruits become alkaline in our body, according to Dr. Herbert Shelton who did research on this matter. If you have mastered the correct way of eating fruits, you have the Secret of beauty, longevity, health, energy, happiness and normal weight.

When you need to drink fruit juice - drink only fresh fruit juice, NOT from the cans. Don't even drink juice that has been heated up. Don't eat cooked fruits because you don't get the nutrients at all. You only get to taste. Cooking destroys all the vitamins.

But eating a whole fruit is better than drinking the juice. If you should drink the juice, drink it mouthful by mouthful slowly, because you must let it mix with your saliva before swallowing it. You can go on a 3-day fruit fast to cleanse your body. Just eat fruits and drink fruit juice throughout the 3 days and you will be surprised when your friends tell you how radiant you look!

KIWI: Tiny but mighty. This is a good source of potassium, magnesium, vitamin E & fiber. Its vitamin C content is twice that of an orange.

APPLE: An apple a day keeps the doctor away? Although an apple has a low vitamin C content, it has antioxidants & flavonoids which enhances the activity of vitamin C thereby helping to lower the risks of colon cancer, heart attack & stroke.

STRAWBERRY: Protective Fruit. Strawberries have the highest total antioxidant power among major fruits & protect the body from cancer-causing, blood vessel-clogging free radicals.

ORANGE : Sweetest medicine. Taking 2-4 oranges a day may help keep colds away, lower cholesterol, prevent & dissolve kidney stones as well as lessens the risk of colon cancer.

WATERMELON: Coolest thirst quencher. Composed of 92% water, it is also packed with a giant dose of glutathione, which helps boost our immune system. They are also a key source of lycopene — the cancer fighting oxidant. Other nutrients found in watermelon are vitamin C & Potassium.

GUAVA & PAPAYA: Top awards for vitamin C. They are the clear winners for their high vitamin C content. Guava is also rich in fiber, which helps prevent constipation. Papaya is rich in carotene; this is good for your eyes.

Don’t Drink Cold water after a meal. Can you believe this?? For those who like to drink cold water, this article is applicable to you. It is nice to have a cup of cold drink after a meal. However, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff that you have just consumed. It will slow down the digestion. Once this 'sludge' reacts with the acid, it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food. It will line the intestine. Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer. It is best to drink hot soup or warm water after a meal.

Martial Arts Movies?

2010-10-26T19:48:00.000-07:00

Whats your favorite MA movie(s)?

I have to admit I'm a Steven Seagal fan. I think I like "Hard to Kill" the most.

A couple of my favorite scenes:

He treats himself with acupuncture

He punches the makiwara so hard he knocks it out of the ground.

I also like the scene in his movie "On Deadly Ground" where he gets into the hand slapping contest with the big oil worker...then punches him in the belly so hard the guy ends up puking on the ground. Classic!

How to turn your hand into a knife

2010-10-21T08:50:00.000-07:00

Looking for tips on how to position striking knife hand to maximize effect.
I'll share my thoughts. Please share yours.

I begin with hand opened wide with 4 fingers held closely together.
Bend thumb and tuck it down pressing it back toward the wrist for tension.
At the same time, extend the pinky finger straight with equal tension - while having the first 3 fingers slightly bent at 1st and 2nd joint.
At this point I can almost hear my hand humming with tension.
Wrist feels more solid with a slight bend outward and upward - also keeps contact point away from pinky and on the meat of the hand.

I'm now ready for a knife hand strike.
Just need to work on making this a natural hand reaction when practicing the entire knife hand strike motion. Much like when we bend our knees and sink into our strikes.

Sun!

Take Notes

2010-10-19T12:46:00.000-07:00

Although there is no substitution for repetition, I've found that taking notes after class on what was taught - has enabled me to better understand, recall, and practice forms and techniques reviewed during class. Does anyone else incorporate a PSR notebook or other such techniques??

Recover from an Ankle Injury

2010-10-14T11:39:00.000-07:00

I rolled an ankle a couple weeks ago - helping push the neighbors car out of the ditch. The RICE technique is outstanding but what else can help speed up recovery - and help avoid missing a class?
Any ancient secrets out there?

RICE ACRONYM:
R - Rest
I - Ice
C - Compression
E - Elevation

Why?

2010-10-07T08:46:00.000-07:00

SUN!

Why do you train in the martial arts?

For a long time Master Rhee would ask me this, in front of the whole class, almost every time I came to Memphis to train. I repeat the question for you; Why?

Recuperation

2010-09-30T06:21:00.000-07:00

What do you do to recuperate after an intense workout? Food? Drink? Stretching?

SUN!

When?

2010-09-21T18:36:00.000-07:00

What is your preferred time for a PaSaRyu workout at home?

I've always preferred going outside after dark, sometimes very late.

Lately I've enjoyed a few morning forms a couple of days a week. (Kind of sets the tone for the day).

SUN!

Master

2010-09-12T11:08:00.000-07:00

Have you looked in the Yellow Pages lately to see how many Masters there are? I have found all manner of Masters, Grand Masters, Supreme Grand Masters, Ultimate Grand Masters, International Grand Masters and so forth. If the phone book is any indication then America, from California to the New York Island and from the Redwood Forest to the Gulf Stream waters, is indeed a virtual Mecca for Martial Arts Masters! It is amazing just how much talent we have right here in the USA. Every berg and village of any size seems to be blessed with a plethora of high-ranking Masters, a cornucopia of national and international champions.

Many styles of martial arts award the title of "Master" at the mid-rank Black Belt level, typically at 5th Dan (PSR is one of these) but some as early as 4th Dan and others at 6th Dan or higher. So I was wondering, what is a true Master? What must one do to be a true Master? Your thoughts---anyone? Everyone?

New Member

2010-09-09T17:06:00.000-07:00

SUN!

My name is Mr. Eagle, Gary Ring. Master Hawk and Master Crane have kindly invited me to join this blog so I will be posting from time to time. I have been involved in the martial arts for over 36 years, yep I'm "chronologically gifted". I live in Arkansas and have been training under Master Rhee for over 25 years, and I have know Master Crane all that time. He has been a great help to me, and I am sure he is for you as well. In my 30+ years I have been fortunate enough to accumulate a few trophies, couple of joints that don't work just right, some scars, and a boat load of experience. Experience is what you get when you didn't get what you wanted, and you usually get it right after you needed it! I've never been on a blog before, I am looking forward to it.

SUN!

Attend the Next Class

2010-09-09T10:35:00.000-07:00

Attend the next class.

A simple goal to maintain when priorities and passions collide.

With the demands of family, work, etc., I sometimes find it difficult to attend class consistently.

Interruptions in training can run for a day, a week, or perhaps a month or more.

We all have priorities in life that at times, can distract us from our passion - attending class. The frustration of missing class or classes can become a mental grind of stress and guilt. It can result in delayed goal achievement, delayed skill development and well being. I have talked to others who have expressed similar frustration with missing class for various reasons.

When this happens, I want to focus on managing my absence from class as productively as I can. Not dwelling on what I have missed but rather remaining excited about what classes I can attend in the future. This means that I must first take care of business so I can get to the next class. Secondly, I want to maintain or continue to enhance my skills and well being at home as best I can with the daily goal of attending the next class as soon as possible. This may be nothing more than 15 minutes of daily stretching and floor exercises, or form practice, or sensible dieting - at home or wherever.

If I miss a few classes, even for good reason, I can feel a little down about it. For some, this may even lead to hesitations to return to class. The new class schedule recently published, has re-energized me to stay focuses and build on future class attendance - always looking forward. I hope many others feel the same and maintain and/or renew their passion to attend the next class. If you have any tips or training aides that help you stay on track when you miss class, or tricks that help eliminate any barriers that prevent some from returning to class, please post. Until then - just say - "Attend the Next Class!".

Sun!

Excuses

2010-09-08T21:41:00.000-07:00

Few people are able to get through a day without making an excuse, or blaming their problems on someone else. Most people will not admit when they are wrong about something, or make a mistake. My intent for this post is to encourage everyone to take a different approach when it comes to why a task, assignment, or any type of project is not completed.

Let's start with the main reasons people give excuses. One, they just don't want to look stupid....two, they simply forget things or are just plain lazy... and three, they have a hard time admitting they are not perfect. The problem is, people don't understand that others have more respect for those that are honest.

IMO, if we can learn from our mistakes rather than make excuses, we will be happier and more successful. I have noticed that successful people admit when they make a mistake and learn from it and move on, determined not to repeat the mistake.

We need to hold ourselves accountable, instead of pointing the finger at someone else. If something needs to be done, "just do it".

SUN!

Academic Excellence

2010-09-06T17:06:00.000-07:00

Well it's that time of year again, the school year has began and the next thing you know progress and report cards will be out. The big question is, will there be trouble when the report card is opened, or congratulations? As most of you know, I/we have always been dedicated to rewarding those students who excel in school. A good student is dedicated, motivated and on a quest to do their best...just like a black belt.

I believe in rewarding such excellence to reinforce the importance of above average performance in the classroom just as we reward above average performance on the mat. I don't think a reward should motivate a student to do well, only condition them that when they work hard, success will follow...hopefully setting them up for a lifetime of achievement.

What do you think about rewarding children for a job well done? Is this a necessity in todays society or is it something that is moving our kids in the wrong direction?

SUN!

Bullying Wrap up

2010-09-04T12:34:00.000-07:00

So, what can we do about this problem, "bullying"

For the community, we are offering a bully prevention seminar. (Sept. 11th) If needed we will continue offering these type of community events. I have also been asked to go into the schools and speak with kids about this.
We will continue to train our students to deal with these challenges with bullies in a cool, calm and collective manner. Physical self defense techniques will be a last resort; first we will take a few countable measures that can prevent an altercation. (these are covered in the seminar) Most important is self confidence....this is the most important attribute of defense.
Once kids get into high school, unfortunately it is even more difficult for them. Bullying, peer pressure and social activities can become major obstacles for them. One thing that I have noticed is that the kids who made martial arts part of their life from age 6 on up to high school have far less challenges than those who never trained or stopped training with us. For example, we had a student who made it to black belt and was active until 8th grade when she stopped coming to classes. After that, I noticed a steady disintigration of her self confidence, focus and drive. My point is, to keep the benefits, you must keep active.
Bullying will continue until we reach a level of confidence where bullies will avoid us. There is no quick martial arts technique or trick that can stop it. It is a life commitment of confidence, self control and self defense training that can take years to develop. But, that commitment is so valuable and can pay off in so many ways.

Bullying, part 3

2010-08-31T19:28:00.000-07:00

When we take a look at the average bully, it is very clear that they are people who lack self confidence and self control. So, they take their anger and frustrations out on other people. This not only happens to kids in school, but also in relationships, work, sports and pretty much everywhere. The main reason it happens is because these individuals lack self control. Everybody has bad days or goes through bad stretches in life. But those who have self control are able to channel their anger and frustrations. Maybe you are reading this and thinking,"I'm angry and I'm not releasing my frustration on a healthy activity (like martial arts), I'm taking it out on my family, or friends, or co-workers. If that's the case, you need to be talking to me about getting into (or back into) our program!

The main reason I initially started in martial arts is because I have a bad temper and I was afraid that I would eventually hurt someone or get hurt seriously. I also remember that back in grade school, I was a bully to a few kids and now I deeply regret that. Training in the arts has taught me how to develop and use my self control. I have seen many of my students gain a huge amount of self control and confidence from their training as well. And that is one of the main key ways to avoid being bullied...developing a high level of self confidence. I feel this is done by INDIVIDUAL accomplishments. Every time a student goes through a belt test, there should be a transformation, there should be an improvement in there confidence. By the time they get to Black Belt, they will have the confidence, self control and skills to deal with bullies.

For myself, earning my black belt was a life changing experience. After that, I KNEW I could do anything I wanted. With the skills I had learned, I KNEW that I could defend myself. I soon noticed that I was better able to deal with confrontations. I didn't get nervous, loud, nothing...just a cool and calm approach to resolving any situation. That ability is what I am dedicated to giving to our students .

In my next post, I'll wrap this up. Again, feel free to post your thoughts or questions on this subject.

SUN!

Bully Prevention (continued)

2010-08-27T15:16:00.000-07:00

Over the years, the number one reason parents enrolled their kids in our program was because their kids were being picked on or beat up in school, or they didn't want them to be picked on or beat up. Yes, this goes on all the time, even in our nice little central Wisconsin schools. (no offense to our schools or those who work there, they have their hands full) So what do we do?
First. we do everything we can to see that it stops, second and most importantly, we make sure that if our children are ever faced with a situation they will know how to react!
My next post will discuss who the bullies are, and what makes them tick.

The Effects of being Bullied

2010-08-26T12:46:00.000-07:00

As parents, teachers and Instructors to our children, it is so important to be knowledgable about the effects of being bullied and what it can cause later in life. The biggest one is lack of confidence. Confidence is one of the most important character traits that a person needs to possess to be successful in the real world. (That is why so much emphasis is placed on that aspect in our classes.) It is of the utmost importance to not let any bullying get out of control. Other effects such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts can all be linked to being bullied.
Anyone have any thoughts, storys or insight related to this subject? Please share.

SUN

PaSaRyu Ee Dan

2010-08-23T20:57:00.000-07:00

A couple of people here have requested PaSaRyu Ee Dan.

So, here it is...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jh-rYZzo49M

SUN!

PaSaRyu Jahng Kwon Cong Keeock

2010-08-22T20:56:00.000-07:00

PasaRyu Jahng Kwon Cong Keeock is up at:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1weQKCZ3IU

The Summer Doldrums

2010-08-22T20:21:00.000-07:00

The Blog Page is looking great!

Summer will be drawing to a close soon (though it topped 100 degrees today).

I'm looking forward to some cooler weather so my outside form training can recommence.

Nevertheless, I filmed the two-person form PaSaRyu Jahng Kwon Cong Keeock today and it is uploading to you tube as I type. I'll post the link when completed

SUN!

Change in Class schedule

2010-08-16T20:37:00.000-07:00

I announced in classes tonite that we will be making some adjustments to our class schedule effective September 1st, 2010. I have discussed this with our active Instructors and everyone is all for it. I am pleased to announce we will now be offering 12 specific Hapkido classes per month in addition to 16 PSR classes.
We also will be adding 4 Black Belt only classes per month. Also, we are going to form a Demo team. The demo team will have its own class 4 times per month. And finally, we will be adding a few "specialty" classes per month.
I will make details about the new schedule available to everybody ASAP.
I have a few other things in the works, but I'll hold off on details for now.
If anyone has any questions, don't hesitate to talk to me about it.

SUN!

Great Abilities come from Great Effort

2010-08-09T21:44:00.000-07:00

I gave a talk in todays little kids class about how most things are not much fun until you get good at them. Games, school subjects, martial arts techniques, etc. They all seemed to get the idea....dedicate yourself to study and practice and eventually things that once were difficult will be fun and enjoyable.
This made me think about myself and the things I need to do (business wise) but dislike doing. I realize that the only reason I dislike them is because I'm not good at them, and the only reason I'm not good at them is because I have not dedicated myself to getting good at them. I believe it's as simple as that.

2010-07-31T09:22:00.000-07:00

Rest In Peace

Our Friend and PaSaRyu Brother

Keith "LION" Lafferty

August 23, 1963 - July 25, 2010

PaSaRyu KanKu Sho

2010-02-09T06:35:00.000-08:00

2010-01-03T19:32:00.000-08:00

Still trying.

2009-12-31T06:48:00.000-08:00

There will be a blue (full) moon tonight. Perfect for my PasaRyu New Year tradition: be outside working on a form starting a little before midnight and continuing into the new year. I hope everyone on the forum will join me (at least in spirit).
Forget making resolutions-just do it! SUN!

Happy Holidays

2009-12-23T23:11:00.000-08:00

I want to extend to my best holiday wishes to all my PaSaRyu brothers and sisters. I am so grateful for your support and friendship. I look forward to another new year of great health and training with all of you!

SUN!

2009-12-23T17:30:00.000-08:00

Once Again.

2009-12-22T19:22:00.000-08:00

At this point-at this time

PasaRyu Am Hak

2009-12-20T21:43:00.000-08:00

For your approval.
SUN!

PaSaRyu SoHo Yun

2009-12-13T23:05:00.000-08:00

For your consideration, my attempt at SoHo Yun.

Manners

2009-12-01T13:13:00.000-08:00

One of the things I have always enjoyed the most about our training and the way we approach it is the focus on manners and being respectful toward everyone, regardless of rank, etc. Every class, I know that I will be treated, and in turn treat everyone in a positive, mutualy respectful manner.
On the other hand, outside the dojang where I am forced to deal with people who have no concept of basic manners, I find myself very frustrated.

Respect for PaSaRyu Il Dan

2009-11-07T21:04:00.000-08:00

Oh, the joy of Pasaryu Il Dan. Every move-devastating. Every move requiring the orchestrated participation of the WHOLE body. Each move begging to be repeated, over and over again until all facets are coordinated to produce maximum effect through the weapon dictated: the Hahk Doo, the Soo Kum Chee, the Jun Soo, the Mae Soo, the Jhun Kwon, the Pahl Kum Chee, the Hoo Kwon, the Soo Doe, the Chaang Soo, the Yup Cong.
I'm sore, but not poor. I just got through mining all that GOLD!

A proficient instructor will guide, not lead. A leader produces followers. A Guide will produces more proficient instructors.

Drop it!

2009-10-27T19:56:00.000-07:00

I am thoroughly convinced that it is more strenuous to use "no speed and no power" and drop your body weight into every strike and block during a form than it is to go full blow but not drop.
My legs will be complaining tomorrow morning!

2009-10-20T18:55:00.000-07:00

It occurs to me that centuries ago, masters wanted to teach their students certain techniques: strikes, blocks, kicks, avoidance, breathing, rotation, penetration, etc. So, they arranged them into forms, progressively more advanced, as memory tools, to engage interest and simulate events where these techniques may be of benefit and provide insight and opportunities to use them in different ways.
The goal was, and is, not to learn the form, but to perfect the individual techniques.
In essence, the technique is a stand-alone form in itself. From the beginning of its execution to its culmination it is a series of angles, positions, muscle contractions, weight distribution and delivery, timing, turning and twisting, raising up and dropping down. A simple Soo Do Bahng Auh is a mind blowing symphony of nerve synapses and muscle memory.
How can one do it justice by breezing through it - anxious to get through the larger form and onto the next? Only to absentmindedly fumble through another one, two, ten or fifty techniques in order to complete another form and so on.
And still, your Soo Do is not much better than when you were a yellow belt because you've been doing the same thing for --- how long?
Give the technique its due. After all, we want it to accomplish what we send it out to do, not just fill space between two other techniques.
SUN! I will improve myself through self-reform and self-refinement!

Injuries

2009-10-15T19:01:00.000-07:00

I think a lot of consideration should be given in regards to long term training and injuries. Just as typist, etc. deal with carpal tunnel syndrome and tennis players have elbow problems and baseball pitchers have shoulder problems, basketball players have knee problems, we martial artist tend to have all of the above. The problem is, where the other sports and professions eventually retire, we tend to see our training as a life long endeavor so we generally "tough it out", probably to our detriment. Stretching will help to some degree, but the repetitive movements involving twisting, jumping, squatting, high kicks and hard punches take their toll over the years.
Master Rhee often says "no speed, no power" referring to doing a form with proper movement and technique and not get caught up in speed and power. Now I "feel" the wisdom in that.
Any thoughts?

Belt Testing

2009-10-13T20:38:00.000-07:00

I often wonder what people/students expect or want from a belt testing. As a student, I always wanted to have at least several chances to show my best techniques and I liked to be challenged to step up to a new level. But as an Instructor, I get to see everyones best and worst in class every day and everybody is prequalified to promote so I don't really need to see anything specific on the promotion day. I think that the majority of our belt tests are excellent, but I still worry that maybe we should do more....or less....or different.
I'd like everyones thoughts on what they would describe as the ideal belt test.

CWMAI Online Store

2009-10-07T19:35:00.000-07:00

Check out our new online store! Just go to the GetConfident.net home page and click on the shirt icon toward the bottom of the page. Theres some pretty nice clothing items in there and its delivered right to your home. You guys let me know if there is anything else you would like to see in there.

Handgun Disarms

2009-10-04T19:08:00.000-07:00

This is a clip of some handgun disarms I was teaching at Mr. Wolfs class a few years ago. We still use this set.

Confidence or Arrogance?

2009-10-01T20:10:00.000-07:00

At what point does confidence in your knowledge and abilities crossover into arrogance? Is arrogance backed by solid skills and knowledge neccessarily a bad thing?
Thoughts??

Success

2009-09-29T10:41:00.000-07:00

Success is peace of mind which is a direct result of self - satisfaction in knowing you did your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming.
John Wooden

PaSaRyu Tae Jah Kwon

2009-09-20T21:43:00.000-07:00

Can't let a little rain get in the way of a workout.

PaSaRyu Jah Un

2009-09-20T21:38:00.000-07:00

IL Soo

2009-09-20T21:13:00.000-07:00

Here is our version of the IL Soo 2 man form for your consideration. Special thanks to "Iron Arm" Mr. Bauman for his assistance.

reverse punch defense

2009-09-09T15:45:00.000-07:00

Often times in the dojo, we practice defense off a punch with the offender stepping forward and punching. The idea of this technic seems to be to remind the defender to keep a good distance away so that the offender must make a huge body movement if they are to make contact thereby allowing for reaction time. However, when we spar, we are in much closer range to our opponent and they never seem to step forward to punch. I would think that with practice, a person would be able to increase their reaction time to be able to properly defend a reverse punch aside from merely blocking it. It would be as if I tried to hit a baseball thrown by a MLB pitcher; I would invariably strike out. But start slow and over time (years that is), I should be able to connect with a high average.

This is all theory at this point. Has anyone proven this theory? If my theory is correct, then why do professional fighters (ex. UFC, boxers) allow their face to be cut up and their ribs to be broken?

SoHo Yun

2009-09-07T21:22:00.001-07:00

PSR and My Evolution

2009-09-05T21:20:00.000-07:00

"Punishment" (push ups, sit ups, jumping jacks) seemed to be a normal part of my entire journey from white belt to black belt. Like Master Rhee alluded, it was just part of the culture. As an energetic 20 something yr old with an inferiority complex it was probably good for me. I always considered the punishments as a way to get stronger and better. There wasn't much verbal berating.
And then there is the other extreme that gives a pass to shoddy technique and disrespect.
But, now that I think about it, I saw a lot a people pass through the punishment phase to black belt and they had shoddy technique.
My teaching technique for colored belts, (of whom I have little interaction with and this is probably why), is one of "honest encouragement" or what I call H.U.R.T. (Have U Repaired That (yet). In other words, if I told you at the last class to keep your assistant hand in the proper place at your side and you are consistently not doing it at this class, or your feet STILL are not at the proper angle, then you will be walking cat stances or long hiking stances around the perimeter of the room, both ways, with both hands at your side the whole time. (I purposely tried to avoid saying "at your belt" or even, "on your belt" because I now consider that too low for most people.).
Some may want to call that punishment but I prefer to think of it as "focusing" one's attention on certain details.
Of Course, black belts don't receive that sort of encouragement. They should be pushing themselves to excellence. SUN!

PSR Evololution

2009-09-02T21:38:00.000-07:00

Master Crane,

I was hoping you could share with us some of the things that you've seen change or evolve in the PSR system since you started. What aspects are different, what are the same, good, bad, etc.
Master Rhee once told me that at one time, the PSR training focused mainly on fighting ability and toughness. Only the strongest stuck with the training. He said he deeply regretted taking that approach as he woke up one day and realized he was surrounded by a group of egomaniacs. I believe this period was in the early 1970's.

SUN!

Technique of the Week

2009-08-19T20:45:00.000-07:00

NoPai

2009-08-18T19:26:00.000-07:00

BaSai Sho

2009-08-18T19:01:00.000-07:00

Yun Bee

2009-08-18T18:39:00.000-07:00

PaSaRyu Chul Kee Ee Dan

2009-08-16T21:02:00.000-07:00

PaSaRyu Yun Bee-2

2009-08-16T21:01:00.000-07:00

PaSaRyu Yun Bee

2009-08-16T20:56:00.000-07:00

PaSaRyu Jin Soo

2009-08-02T20:41:00.000-07:00

Critique to follow.

No Pae - Creative

2009-07-25T22:23:00.000-07:00

I got a little carried away with the video. I also had to come out of the Doe Bouk top with the temps being in the 90's and the humidity as well.

No Pae

2009-07-25T21:47:00.000-07:00

Ok, here is my version. No need to point out the flaws. They are painfully obvious.
Note to self: level ground would be better, with no mole tunnels.

Meditation

2009-07-25T08:16:00.000-07:00

Since so much of Martial Arts has its roots in Buddhist traditions, does anyone regularly practice (the largely Buddhist inspired) art of meditation? We start each class with a few moments of reflection and deep breathing designed to center ourselves into the present but I am curious if anyone has included the practice of a deeper meditation into their daily\weekly routine.

I have read a few books on this from both a Zen Buddhist perspective as well as a Judeo Christian application and have found this to be something I want to incorporate in my life on a more regular basis. I have attempted to meditate, even if that means sitting at my desk at work and focus on breathing, but I usually get side-tracked by random thoughts. In a nutshell, I can't find a way to quiet my mind enough to be able to concentrate on a single thought. (Yes - insert voices in my head joke here...)

So, anyone practice meditation regularly? Any hints on how to focus without having some theme song or TV commercial diddy pop into your head? Any thoughts on how meditation applies to us living in a "western" society?

Sun!

Quiz 1

2009-07-21T20:23:00.000-07:00

Here is a short quiz. Master Pryga is not eligible to answer.
Why do we maintain our feet at a 45 degree angle, for instance, in the cat stance (meo bo jah sae)?
TcB

Feel Free

2009-07-21T19:45:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys and Gals,
We want everyone to feel free to post your thoughts and ideas up here, not just myself and Master Crane. Also if you know other students who would like to post here, get me their email and I'll get them set up.

Any Ideas?

2009-07-16T09:34:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty sure all of us are constantly looking for ways to improve our health, conditioning and just finding things that make us feel good. (healthy good)

I've always observed that different things work for different people and that it takes alot of trial and experimentation to really "dial in" the right combination of diet, exercise, supplements, rest and things like that.

I invite everyone to share your ideas and what works or has worked for you. Specific exercise routines, supplements, etc.

SUN!

Congratulations Mr. Viper!

2009-07-14T18:10:00.000-07:00

I want to extend my best wishes and congratulations to our own Mr. Viper on his wedding this weekend. I wish I could be there to help you celebrate. I hope you have a wonderful time!

I'm here

2009-07-14T10:21:00.001-07:00

Master Hawk,
Thank You for involving me in the search. Iwill do what I can for the betterment of all.
SUN!!

The PaSaRyu Blog

Speed of Techniques

Happy Thanksgiving

Breath Control

Checking in

The Changing of the Guard

Train with purpose...

"Train with purpose; the more you sweat in the gym, the less you bleed on the street."— Dr. Jerry Beasley

Snatch the Pebble

Splitting a Log

Sheep, Wolves, and Sheepdogs

Wash the Window, Peel the Onion, Work the Mine

Water

Dialogs

Condolences

Take a Break

Jang Kwon Kong Keock

Andy Osborne "Mr. Snake"

Reiki

Way to Go Guys!

PSR Rank Requirements

A Nice Visit

This week's katas

What's your lineup?

A Kata a Day

Something for sore joints and muscles

What is your favorite strength training program?

Congrats to Master Crane

Your Top Three?

Cardio Kata

MMA Fad: Big in Entertainment / Small in self improvment

Body Hardening

New Member

The Perfect Storm

Martial Arts Shoes

When to Eat Fruit

Martial Arts Movies?

How to turn your hand into a knife

Take Notes

Recover from an Ankle Injury

Why?

Recuperation

When?

Master

New Member

Attend the Next Class

Excuses

Academic Excellence

Bullying Wrap up

Bullying, part 3

Bully Prevention (continued)

The Effects of being Bullied

PaSaRyu Ee Dan

PaSaRyu Jahng Kwon Cong Keeock

The Summer Doldrums

Change in Class schedule

Great Abilities come from Great Effort

PaSaRyu KanKu Sho

Happy Holidays

PasaRyu Am Hak

PaSaRyu SoHo Yun

Manners

Respect for PaSaRyu Il Dan

Drop it!

Injuries

Belt Testing

CWMAI Online Store

Handgun Disarms

Confidence or Arrogance?

Success

PaSaRyu Tae Jah Kwon

PaSaRyu Jah Un

IL Soo

reverse punch defense

SoHo Yun

PSR and My Evolution

PSR Evololution

Technique of the Week

NoPai

BaSai Sho

"Train with purpose; the more you sweat in the gym, the less you bleed on the street."

— Dr. Jerry Beasley