Tae Kwon Do Knockouts

Here is a highlight of knockouts from Tae Kwon Do competitions. Because the emphasis is on kicking, these athletes posses some serious skills in the feet.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZzWSkraIq5g&list=FLmOjhLKfM09ymrJRgYAEJnA&index=1&feature=plpp_video

Competition For Self Defense Training?

Can competition help you prepare for a real self defense encounter? Absolutely. Why? Look at a boxer. He practices 4 punches (jab, cross, hook and uppercut) and puts those 4 punches together in multiple combinations against a non-compliant opponent. He runs, spars, does bag and pad work and competes against trained opponents. Sure he fights under a set of rules and isn't allowed to kick or eye gouge, but he is deadly. Look at the guy who grew up grappling (i.e. judo, wrestling, etc.). He has been taking opponents down to ground, controlling them with positions/submissions. He does this against in shape, well trained, resisting opponents. These athletes are strong mentally and physically and impose their wills on strong opponents. These attributes translate over to one's self defense skills. These individuals deal with fear, anger, adrenaline, pressure, pain and fatigue. They are able to push themselves past the limits of non-competitors. Guys who fight in the cage have to fend off punches, elbows, take downs, knees, holds, submissions, etc. against trained fighters who specialize in some form of delivering pain. So, next time you hear somebody say that competition isn't suitable for preparing one for real situations, ask them how many fights they have.

Saenchai Muay Thai Highlight

Saenchai Sor Kingstar is one of the most gifted fighters in Muay Thai. He is unique and he's throws technique that no one else will attempt.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THxBopyyImI&feature=related

Have A Base Art

In today's martial arts world, there are a lot of styles to train in.  The MMA approach is very popular. In Mixed Martial Arts, we say that you have to train in several disciplines (i.e. boxing, kickboxing, wrestling, grappling, etc.) to be well rounded. Develop a base in one art (kickboxing, karate, or whatever) and then add on. Your base art will be something that fits your body and personality. I like to kick people in the head, so my base is Tae Kwon Do and Karate. Since I like to kick, opponents are going to want to get in close, so, I learned to box and kickbox. Because I like to kickbox and box, opponents are going to want to grab when in close, so, I added Muay Thai skills for the clinch. Once in the clinch, opponents may want to me down, so I added Judo so I can throw or sweep from the clinch and then I added the newaza (grappling). Find out what you like and build your MMA approach around your strengths and improve in any areas you feel week in. GO TRAIN!!

Winning Attitude

In listening to different fighters talk, I see many turning down fight opportunities because they don't think they're ready. They want to avoid the top fighters in their weight class because the time is not right. A trainer once said, "If a new fighter walks into his gym and doesn't believe he will be champion from day one, then he never will".  Of course everyone can't attain the top spot, but I think that if you want to be a fighter you have develop that mindset of taking on all comers. Test yourself against top opposition. If you lose, you know where you stand. You can evaluate what you are capable of and go from their. You can possibly win against your perception of another. We see upsets in all sports. No matter what, be a winner in your mind.

50 year old grudge match

Here's beautiful right cross by a 70 year old retired football player.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vgO2LetuiC0

More of Kancho Soeno Teaching

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F62_1f9ur4U

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XH9Nqifv2JI&feature=related