Martial Arts vs. Fitness Programs

 

 

People now days have a wide variety of choices when it comes to getting in better shape. There are a lot of good personal and group fitness programs out there to choose from. Not to mention a host of fitness equipment and gear that one can have in their own home or use at a local gym. And if merely getting in shape is what you are looking for then maybe one of those programs or pieces of equipment are what you need. However, if you are looking to get in fantastic shape and much MORE then consider martial arts.

Our founder Grand Master Park knew the value of time and how important it was to use our time wisely. He saw martial arts as an activity virtually anyone can integrate into their daily routines. And that it was an optimum way to keep in shape while also learning valuable life and self defense skills. He understood that if you used the same amount of time for some fitness program vs. martial arts there was a far greater reward to studying martial arts.

Not only are you learning to defend your self and your loved ones in martial arts, you are also learning many coordinate values and skills than transcend merely going to some gym or staying at home working out.

Martial Arts values (a partial list):

• Self Defense
• Complete and balanced body fitness
• Proper diet (Organic, non-GMO’s, proper food combinations, how to use supplements)
• First Aid, CPR and Eastern Health education
• Character development (reducing traits of the negative ego)
• Whole life philosophy (understanding the complete person, body, mind, spirit, etc)                                      

 

Note: We cannot vouch for all “martial arts” as there are some that do not meet our standards. With anything it is up to you to do the research and comparisons and decide what martial arts you feel is worthy of your time, etc.

 

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Dr. Carmack’s Hapkido Dojang Articles – Samples

Three Arrows Around a Balloon – It’s the Little Things That Make a Difference

It had been over 30 years since I shot target with a bow and arrow. With my family recently, I took a formal lesson at a private archery club in our community. The instructors were very knowledgeable and expert archery coaches. The most rewarding part of the day was spending time with my family. However, the experience reminded me of how focus, controlled breathing, repetition, and relaxed physical qualities lead to success.

After approximately 45 minutes, each family member was grouping arrows into small areas of the target. As a beginner, it was interesting to see how little technical skills made a big difference in the final resting place of an arrow. In archery, it’s the little things that make a difference. Have you noticed that “little things” can make a difference in the success of your personal and professional life?

At the end of the archery lesson, just for fun, our archery coaches placed a balloon in the center of our target. My first arrow was high and left. My second arrow was high and right. My next arrow was low and left. Each of the arrows was no more than 1/2″ from the balloon. On my third shot, my coach commented that my left hand was tight and not relaxed. When I relaxed, I finally hit the target.

In professional and personal activities, when we miss our target, it would be wise to look at the fundamentals which lead to success and make necessary adjustments.

What should I do if…?

For classroom teachers, transitions can mean the difference between keeping students engaged or losing the focus of the lesson. Master teachers make it look effortless. They know the importance of connecting one activity to another.  Transitions may look different, but the best teachers use transitions to get results.

During our advanced training seminar (June 13, 2013), several students asked questions which summarized communicated, “What happens if …?”  The answer was simplistic but important. Students must learn how to transition. When an attacker knows a counter or instinctively escapes a martial arts technique, a well-trained martial artist smoothly transitions to the next technique. The very best martial artists don’t think about the next move – it just happens because of hours and hours of training. Just like the master classroom teacher, they make transitioning from one movement to another look effortless but get results.

There are endless “what if’s.” “What if’s” are in our martial arts training and in the real world. We never know what is coming next. Experience and an understanding that transitions are fundamental principles of life will help move you to the next life activity. Be like a master classroom teacher or martial artist. Prepare for the transitions; change is coming. Stay calm, stay positive, and link experiences to the next life activity.

No! You’re Not Taking My Car!

When you are out in public, what is your level of alertness? Are you the type of person who scans the parking lot? Do you go for a run without a headset and music loudly playing? Do you walk down the street with your head up scanning the people around you? Criminals look for weak and easy targets!

Mr. Keith Rudy, a red belt at our academy, recently demonstrated the importance of being aware of surroundings. While leaving a store and walking to his vehicle, he noticed a man walking towards his vehicle. Mr. Rudy probably surprised the man who might have been looking for an easy theft. Criminals love to find open car doors so they can help themselves to whatever is in the car. This is all speculation – no matter what, the man had bad intentions in mind.

Seeing Mr. Rudy, the man probably had to readjust his plan, so he communicated to Mr. Rudy that he was going to take Mr. Rudy’s car. In this type of situation, can you imagine the stress which could easily take over your body and mind? In most cases, victims talk about their complete fixation with the problem. Tunnel vision takes over.

Mr. Rudy did not fall into a state of tunnel vision. He even noticed another vehicle coming in his direction. The man appeared to have a partner.

There are no absolutes in how to defend yourself. Sometimes it’s appropriate to run away from danger.

Mr. Rudy’s alertness helped him assess the situation. He prepared by taking a fighting stance and communicated very forcefully that no one was going to take his car. In no way did he look like an easy victim. He was not perceived as an easy target. In fact, I’m certain the man considered his own safety as an issue. He ran as fast as he could away from Mr. Rudy.

I appreciate Mr. Rudy allowing us to share his “real world” situation. It was clear that his awareness in the parking lot gave him options. By scanning the parking lot, he was not taken by surprise. He also did not freeze and only see one person. He was able to stay calm and notice that the man on foot had a partner. Finally, he made a decision. He decided to communicate firmly by voice and physical posture that he was not going to be a victim.

Stay alert! Never look like a victim.

Little Acts of Honesty

When charged too little at a store, what do you do?

One of our martial arts students was purchasing four subs.  She noticed that the charge was for three subs.  She pointed the mistake out to the cashier.  This was a simple example of integrity.

Little acts of honesty can tell you much about a person.

Recognize and Apply the Strategies Which Help You Learn.

Patterns are everywhere around us. We start learning about patterns early in life. Children play and build with blocks and other objects. They put things together to produce creative works of art. Parents acknowledge enthusiastically that the structures are “works of art.”

Later in life we learn complex systems by utilizing patterns. Scientists understand that symmetry in molecules and patterns in space affect the infrared spectrum. Stock traders are constantly watching patterns in order to make purchasing or selling decisions. Students learn patterns in algebra in order to transition to calculus.

Some people learn by visualizing patterns. While teaching a new form (series of martial arts movements and techniques), Sophie, one of our youth, raised her hand and asked a question, “What is the pattern?” She has awareness that she learns by organizing movements logically through pattern structures.

Understanding your personal learning style, which might include pattern awareness, provides a learning advantage. Who wouldn’t want a learning edge?  Awareness of the principles of patterns has applications inside the martial arts training facility and in the “real world.” Recognize and apply the strategies which help you learn.

Recent Classroom Discussions –”It builds character!”

During recent martial arts training sessions, two adult students, Rich and J.R., spoke of “character building.” They referred to how the training “builds character.” One was challenged by a new tumbling activity. The other referred to physical activity and stresses to the body which accompany martial arts training.

Even the most gifted athletes encounter movements that are not natural, require practice, and cause reasonable strain on the body. Developing new skills requires self-discipline. For people who lack or have not developed self-discipline, the stresses and strains may be the end. Many give up. Look at the health club industry. People enroll and after a few workouts never come back.

Overcoming martial arts challenges helps us overcome challenges in the real world. Learning how to overcome a challenge is as important to our growth as experiencing success. Continuous improvement should be a way of life. The student learning the new tumbling has been experiencing technique problems but will succeed in learning the technique. He continues to improve, because he has the needed self-discipline. He was correct. The technique challenge is a character building experience.

You cannot fake 20 push-ups. You have to put in the time and train your body for 20 push-ups.  Martial arts students at our school are taught the importance of rigorous training. We don’t want students leaving injured, but overcoming fatigue and soreness are normal outcomes of physical activity. Self-discipline is required. When we overcome the pain, fatigue and hard training, we are one step closer in achieving personal goals. Worthwhile accomplishments come from finding ways over, around, or under barriers standing in the way of our goals.

Master Instructor Arthur Y. S. Lee, a martial arts lead instructor in San Francisco, said, “The greatest of all achievements is to master yourself.” Self-discipline is critical to the process of mastering yourself. Knowing how to improve in the dojang (training facility) and outside in the real world are life skills we consider important. They build character!

I offer my sincere thanks to Rich and J.R. for sharing their perspective about character building.

Respectfully,

Chad C. Carmack, Ed. D.

Delaware Hapkido Goal: Self-Discipline

Courage to Take Action

When is it time to step in? Why don’t people do the right thing – the courageous thing – more often?

Jack, one of our youth martial arts students, demonstrated courage. In his school cafeteria, he noticed a student sitting alone. The “popular” kids noticed the loaner. Several of those students began to make fun of the young man.

When this type of bad behavior starts, usually there are followers who begin to join in and neutral people who do nothing.  Also, occasionally, there are courageous people who take action in a positive way. Unfortunately, this doesn’t happen as often as we would like. Jack showed courage. He made the decision to get out of his seat and joined the student who was alone. He sat next to him.

Immediately, the “popular” kids saw this as another opportunity to become even more “popular.” They began to make fun of Jack with negative verbal comments. Jack understands that he can make a choice. He chose to ignore the comments which sent a message to all observers – I’m not going to idly watch this situation.

When I heard the story, I was very proud of Jack. It takes courage to do what’s right. He did not freeze and become one of the neutral observers doing nothing. He knew that the behavior of the harassing students was unacceptable and could not just watch.

Great job Jack! You demonstrated courage!

Find ways to take action and help others in an appropriate way. Do what it takes to make things better.

Chad C. Carmack, Ed. D.

Delaware Hapkido Goal: Self-Identity (awareness that you have a unique identity)

Encouragement

At the end of our last class, one of our new students was struggling with a line drill called shrimping. I noticed three things happening. First, the new student demonstrated to the other 20 students that he was not going to quit. Even though he was tired and challenged with a new movement, giving up was not an option in his mind. Secondly, one of the instructors stayed with him the entire time. Side-by-side she encouraged and coached. The thought of moving forward and finishing the drill – leaving our new student – never entered her mind. Finally, seeing what was happening, the other students began to clap and cheer for the efforts of the new student. All of this happened without instructions from the leaders in class.

The best martial artists take these types of experiences into the real world.

Chad C. Carmack, Ed. D.

Accidents happen!  We can choose how to respond to those accidents.

Delaware Hapkido Goal: Self-Identity (awareness that you have a unique identity)

Last week a novice driver ran over our mailbox. The mailbox had endured many strikes over the last 11 years, but it always withstood physical attacks.

Several years ago another young driver bounced off of one of our cars and slammed into the mailbox. After the accident, with a chain attached to one of our vehicles, we were able to straighten the metal mailbox pole – it looked fairly straight and worked perfectly again. Also, I am certain that our metal mailbox withstood many vandalism strikes, since every mailbox in our neighborhood has been visibly attacked and severely damaged.

This most recent accident completely destroyed our, previously considered indestructible, mailbox. The car bent the metal pole at a 90° angle and ruptured the metal mailbox door – twisting it in an awkward position. Concrete which was two feet below the surface once secured the metal pole. Large chunks of concrete slab were propelled like shrapnel up to 25 yards from the impact point. Although we didn’t get a chance to see the car damage, our neighbor communicated that the collision made a horrendous sound and the vehicle suffered much damage to the front end.

Mrs. Penny Carmack, DE Hapkido black belt and owner of the mailbox, responded immediately with the question, “Is the driver okay?” Her response could have been in anger or frustration since we now have to replace the mailbox. Instead, she was concerned with the safety and well-being of the driver, who was not injured.

Martial arts train which includes meditation and breathing exercises, can instill in a person a sense of calm, awareness, and a clear perspective. Mrs. Carmack demonstrated the ability to empathize, control emotions, and consider someone else prior to considering minor property damage. Her response was commendable.

Chad C. Carmack, Ed. D.

http://www.firststatemartialarts.info

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Tai Chi History – Erle’s Story

Erle Montaigue is the source of the Original Old Yang Style Tai Chi that we do here at Park’s Martial Arts. In the following interview Erle, (a non conformist and rebel, but with a good heart), recounts his Tai Chi history.

Part One:

Part Two:

Part Three:

Part Four:

Final:

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Tai Chi or Qigong?

Have you thought about studying Tai Chi or Qigong?  Since there are many styles/systems of Tai Chi and Qigong, are they all equally beneficial or not?  If not, how do we recognize which ones are better than others. This article will briefly explore the CORE answers to these questions.

Qigong:

Qigong has two main components:

1. Health Benefits

2. Meditative (sometimes referred to as Spiritual) Benefits

Qigong is usually recommended when you have specific health concerns which it is designed to address.   Or for people who seek an illness preventive discipline that also reduces stress, has little to no impact and doesn’t teach martial arts.

Valid methods of Qigong work on specific problems within the body via the movements or postures, and breathing, which in turn trigger their corresponding meridians.  So, as long as a person is working on the correct meridian then they can help the specific ailment associated with that meridian. 

Yet, it is important to note that no individual Qigong is a complete system/approach by itself.  This is because one Qigong usually only works on one, or a limited number of meridians.   Therefore, if a Qigong is to be a complete heath system it must offer enough postures/techniques which in turn work on ALL meridians.  But, and this is VITALLY IMPOTANT, these meridians MUST be activated in the correct sequence. 

This “correct sequence” is known as the Qi Cycle or Horary Cycle.  This cycle sequentially depicts the 24 hour flow of Qi in our bodies.  Following this exact meridian sequence is VITAL for our balanced health. 

 

As such, if you are practicing a Qigong which works merely on one or a few meridians you may produce short terms benefits.  Thus we get the claims from people about how specific Qigong’s helped them with this or that problem.  But keep in mind that this is ONLY a short sighted approach and can be detrimental in the long run.  Why?  Because our bodies were meant to work as a complete unit via a holistic approach. If we don’t practice the entire Horary cycle in the correct sequence our intrinsic life force (Qi) we will never be activated in a balanced manner and thus we cannot energetically live in optimal health. 

Yet there is an additional concern even if one practice several Qigong’s that follows the correct Horary cycle.  That is, Qigong in and of itself can be categorized as a Yin system and to be optimally balanced it needs a Yang compliment.  And this Yang compliment is Martial Arts.  Hence the problem with merely practicing Qigong as a way of life.

This is where Tai Chi comes in. Correct Tai Chi IS a Qigong and much more.

Tai Chi:

Tai Chi has three main components:

1. Health Benefits

2. Martial Arts Benefits

3. Spiritual or Meditative Benefits

Let me start by saying that the reasons there are many forms of Tai Chi is complicated.  In some cases it is because there have been people who felt that they could create a better Tai Chi system than the one they initially learned.  Maybe they felt this way because their initial system or instructor was not very good.  Or, maybe they created a new system because they had a strong ego and wanted to be revered or looked up to.  Maybe they wanted to make more money, etc. The reasons are varied.

So, the quickest and best way to identify which Tai Chi system is valid is to examine its components.  It MUST have all three of the above “components” if it is to be a valid Tai Chi system. Yet, virtually any Tai Chi system can make this claim.  So how do we distinguish a valid Tai Chi system from one that is not in our best interest?

To our knowledge there are only two systems of Tai Chi which are complete and valid.  These are:

1. The Original Yang Lu-Ch’an Tai Chi Chuan (Originally known as H’ao Chu’an, translated as “Loose Boxing”)

2. The Yang Cheng-Fu form (which was a watered down version of The Original Yang Lu-Ch’an Tai Chi Chuan) 

(Note: Please refer to this ARTICLE for more details.)

To avoid over complication I’ll focus strictly on the KEY points of what’s makes these Tai Chi systems “valid”.

1. Health – Only these systems follow the Horary Cycle. In other words, the sequential techniques/postures of the forms (with proper breathing and SUNG) activate each meridian in the correct sequence mimicking the 24 hour Horary cycle.  While other forms of Tai Chi DO NOT DO THIS and the end result can only be defeating. 

2.  Martial Arts – Virtually any Tai Chi motion can be manipulated to simulate a defensive technique.  But with the valid systems of Tai Chi you learn more than this, you also learn Dim-Mak.  Dim-Mak (literally meaning death touch) is the art and science of vital point fighting.  Vital points are the vulnerable areas of the body that when struck properly causes, is the best case scenario pain and the body to not function normally, and in the worst case scenario, results in death.

Some vital points are just structurally weak areas in ones anatomical construction (such as the throat, or knee cap, etc).  Most martial arts systems seem to focus on these structurally weak areas.  But there are other vital areas specifically related to points located on the various meridians.  The science of striking these points is a very advanced methodology of fighting.  For more details on Dim-Mak read this ARTICLE.

One of the numerous genius aspects of the valid systems of Tai Chi are that each technique is a finishing blow if used correctly in a fight.  The motions of Tai Chi are designed so that they strike vital points in the correct direction, and in proper succession with other points to optimize their defensive effectiveness.   In other words, one point can be used by itself or enhanced if used as a set up point for another succeeding point(s), etc.

So, Dim-Mak makes Tai Chi one of the world’s most deadly martial arts in that every single move can be a killing motion if, God forbid, such a need arose.   And while some may cringe at the idea of using Tai Chi as a killing system and thus may wish to focus only on its health benefits; well, this is a short sighted approach. It is like taking the Yin out of the Yang, the night from the day, the male from the female. It can’t be done without causing unfortunate side effects.  Therefore, Tai Chi MUST have both the Healing (Yin) and Fighting (Yang) aspect to be Balanced.

And when Tai Chi is practiced as a complete and Balanced discipline its side effect (beyond the above mentioned benefits) produce coordinate spiritual/meditative results often described as “moving meditation”. 

In summary, authentic Tai Chi stands out because:

1. Its techniques follow the Horary Cycle. 

2. Its Martial Arts system is the pinnacle of self defense based on the art/science of Dim-Mak.

3. When both the Health and Martial Arts are unified one attains Balance and gains optimal meditative/spiritual benefits.

Note: There are of course numerous other components of a healthy and holistic lifestyle which include proper diet/nutrition, proper hydration, social interaction, etc.  But Tai Chi is the perfect complement to virtually anyone’s lifestyle if they seek to live in a beneficial and holistic way.

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Advanced Vital Point Principles and Applications

            Taekwondo is a very effective martial art with both its Mu Sool (Martial Skills) and moral tenets.  In this paper I will reveal little known advanced principles in Mu Sool vital point striking, many of which can be used effectively in taekwondo.

            Generally, when people think of taekwondo they see a martial art which utilizes phenomenal hand and foot techniques which are applied with focus, timing, speed and power against an attacking opponent’s weak areas (vital points). In this way, the resulting self defense applications have a much greater success in their effectiveness; as opposed to just punching or kicking randomly on the opponent’s body in hopes that you will defeat them.

            The intelligence of utilizing these vital points on the opponent’s body sets apart an advanced taekwondo practitioner from a novice.  But what if there was an even a greater methodology to vital point striking than what is typically known?  If so, this knowledge could further the advanced practitioners skills. Well, there is a more advanced science to vital point striking and to the Chinese it is known as the science of dim-mak.

* * *

 

            In order to accurately comprehend aspects of this paper, one needs to have some understanding of the energetic meridian based system found in traditional oriental medicine. Generally speaking, the human body has 12 bilateral primary meridians (see “Yin/Yang Channels” below). There are also two special vessels (the Conception Vessel – CV and the Governor Vessel – GV) that are not bilateral. These are singular channels, which follow the midline of the body, one in front and one on the back.

There are a number of ways in which the Primary Meridians can be classified. One method is to classify them into two groups, according to their polarity of Yin and Yang. The Chinese determined that some of the meridians are predominantly of Yin energy, and some are predominantly of Yang energy.  We will be referencing certain vital points and their corresponding numbers using the abbreviations found in this meridian system.  

Yin Channels (Organ)	Yang Channels (Organ)
Lung (LU)	Large Intestine (LI)
Spleen (SP)	Stomach (ST)
Heart (HT)	Small Intestine (SI)
Kidneys (KI)	Bladder (BL)
Pericardium (PC)	Triple Heater (TH)
Liver (LV)	Gall Bladder (GB)

 

Number of Points on each Meridian

Governing Vessel = 27

Conception Vessel = 24

Lung = 11

Large Intestine = 20

Spleen = 21

Stomach = 45

Heart = 9

Small Intestine = 19

Kidney = 27

Bladder = 67

Pericardium = 9

Triple Heater = 23

Liver = 14

Gall Bladder = 44

Note:  Certain Meridian’s have more than one name and or abbreviation. Here are some examples:  Triple Heater (TH) could also be Triple Warmer (TW).  Large Intestine (LI) could also be Colon (CO). Bladder (BL) could also be Urinary Bladder (UB).

One additional but critical aspect to meridian vital point striking is in knowing the direction of the strike since different effects are produced depending on the angle of the strike.  This is important for single strikes as well as multiple strikes, and how they affect each other.  (refer to #4 below “Dropping the Heart Rate”). 

In order to have a fundamental understanding of which direction to strike a point, one must first understand that the energy or (Ki) in the posterior meridians on the arms and legs flows in a downward fashion, while the Ki flows in an upwards direction in the anterior regions of the arms and legs. The energy flow in the torso and head can be a bit more complex to follow. 

Note: When one examines the numerical system along each meridian in acupuncture the ascending numbers reflect the direction of the energy (Ki). But with dim-mak vital point striking, one must think of the energy flowing in the opposite direction from acupuncture. For in dim-mak striking we are trying to hurt or kill, not heal.   

Next one must understand what effects the points, used individually or in combinations, have on the attacker. This science is very comprehensive and beyond the scope of this paper. If you would like to study this topic further I recommend the exhaustive works, “The Encyclopedia’s of Dim-Mak”, by Erle Montaigue and Wally Simpson.

* * *

 

There are five ways to cause a knock-out.  These five methods are the same ways one can also kill an opponent. So the utmost caution must be used when applying this knowledge.

Note: It is dangerous to knock someone out regardless of how it is done. We lose a few million-brain cells every time we are knocked out. Not to mention possible long-term damage and or death.

1. Head Trauma Black Out: (Blunt Trauma or Concussion)

Most of us know that a strong percussion type strike anywhere near the head, chin, face, etc., will cause a knock out. This is because these areas are vital to human survival and when struck, the brain simply causes the rest of the body to faint thus saving all of the energy and blood for the affected area. This is the first and most basic of the knock out techniques. This method is often seen in boxing or mixed martial arts fights.

 

2. Air Restriction to Lungs: (Lack of Air)

There are two approaches using this method.  The first one, and the one most often considered, would be to restrict air to lungs by cutting off the airway through a choking, compression, or crushing techniques on a person’s airway (larynx).  The second method causes the muscles around the lungs to constrict violently by going into spasm thus causing the person to black out. With this approach, using the meridian based system; we could, for example, perform strikes to ST 15 or to SI 11.  The strike to SI 11, which is located in the center of the scapular, will have the same effect as a good kick in the gut.

 

3. Stopping Blood Flow to Brain: (Lack of blood)

In this method the blood is restricted or stopped in its ability to get to the brain, such as a squeezing method which cuts off circulation to the carotid artery (a.k.a. the old sleeper hold).  One must be careful since prolonged constriction can cause brain damage or even death whereby the opponent may not revive.

If the person is knocked out or the heart has stopped from a sleeper hold type choke then we can use CPR.  Another approach is to lift him into a sitting position placing our hands under his chest from the rear and jerk him upward while squeezing inward lightly. This should bring him around. If not, a medium slap on the back in between the scapular should work.

 

4. Dropping the Heart Rate: (Shock, or rapid disruption of systems)

With this fourth method we would strike at vital points to cause the heart rate to drop, such as striking the carotid sinus or (ST 9). For another example, envision an attacker who uses a right arm hook punch. In defense, we could use our left palm swinging up and outwards in a blocking type motion striking the attackers point known as Neigwan or (PC 6).  The key to this block/strike, (Note: with dim-mak all blocking motions are in fact strikes or set-ups since blocks are seen more or less as wasted motion which makes one susceptible), is that we hit PC 6 in an adverse direction (against the flow of energy – or in this case, the direction of the attackers wrist) while virtually simultaneously we use our right palm striking to his carotid sinus point (ST 9).

There are three other organs which when struck in certain directions will also cause this blood pressure dropping effect. Gall bladder (or GB) and the intestines are the ones that are the easiest to get at. We have gall bladder points all over our bodies from the feet right up to the head and any of these points will cause the knock out when struck in the correct direction.  Take for example GB 14, located just above the eyebrow in the middle of the forehead.  This point can be struck in three different directions each causing a different effect.  For instance, if we strike with an upward blow to this point it causes what is known as an energy or Ki rush to the head resulting in a knock out or death. (Essentially the brain explodes energetically!) But if we use dim-mak points in a different way, they can also be used to heal. For instance, we know that the antidote for striking GB 14 is the point GB 21 just on the shoulders. If we put pressure onto this point and quickly brush to both sides, this will bring the Qi back down out of the head. And since striking GB 14 results in the exact same symptoms as a person suffering from a bad case of sunstroke, we know that GB 21 can also be used for sunstroke victims. In short, sunstroke and striking GB 14 are the result of too much yang energy in the head.

Another approach for striking GB 14 is to use a set-up point.  For example, if I block a punch by using an inwards strike towards me on the posterior side of the attackers arm, this accelerates the normal Ki flow; in analogy this would be just as if I was pushing water downstream.  This method with both water and Ki basically increases the rate of speed and volume.  Thus by causing the Ki energy flow to increase in the arm when striking a specific point, GB 14 will also become engorged with even more Ki than normal. And if GB 14 is struck at this instant and in an upward fashion, it causes an even greater energy rush type effect than by striking it alone, again resulting in a sunstroke type effect.

In another totally separate example, if I were to strike GB 14 in a downward fashion it would lower the blood pressure, which could cause the heart to slow dramatically or even stop thus causing knock out or death (from the heart not starting up again). And if I used a set-up point in conjunction with this point, the negative effects would be further enhanced.

Dim-mak becomes even more complicated when we learn that there are certain points that when struck will cause seemingly totally unrelated parts of the body to react. For instance, if SP 20 (Spleen 20) is struck in an inward manner, it will cause either the right or left leg (whichever side was struck) to lose control and the person will fall to the ground.

5. Neurological: (Disruption of nervous system)

An example of this type of knock out is an inwards strike to the chin which pushes it back towards the upper spinal cord area.  This causes pressure on the spinal column and results in a momentary blockage of information from the central nervous system to the brain. Neurological shut down is a strange human phenomenon, which the martial artist is able to use to his advantage. There are certain parts of the face which when struck with a slapping motion will cause the whole nervous system to shut down. Martial artists wanting to show off have used this practice for years. However, the dangers of this type of strike are even worse than the others. This is because it seems as if there has been no real damage but years later the recipient of such a strike suffers from mental illness, or in the very least becomes paranoid. Certain nervous disorders will also grow over the years, all of which could have been prevented if the person showing off wasn’t irresponsible or ignorant of the effects of the strikes.

* * *

 

To complete the science of vital points striking one must be knowledgeable of the following:

Location:

            Every vital point, whether it is associated to a meridian point or just some anatomical structure of the body, (the latter being something like the Adams apple), has a precise science on how to locate it. 

            For example, in oriental medicine each person can find points based on their very own anatomical body structure.  One such measurement is the width of one’s thumb (called an accu-inch).  One can therefore use their own accu-inch and measure out each meridian point with complete accuracy.  Suffice to say that no two accu-inches are exactly the same. An interesting side note here is that meridians also change their pathways in the body dependant on numerous factors such as diet, stress, sickness, etc.  In acupuncture these deviations are important to note.  However, the pathways rarely (if ever) deviate beyond the effectiveness of dim-mak.  In dim-mak one does not have to be as precise in relation to a point as say an acupuncturist would need to be.  As long as one strikes in the area around the point approximately the size of a large coin the strike will be effective. 

Connections:

One must learn how strikes (or healing) to certain points/meridians affect other meridians.

Direction of Strike:

            Some points only have one direction (straight in) while others have multiple directions, often with different effects.

Damage:

            Light, moderate and heavy strikes produce different effects. In some cases you may only wish to drain the energy of an opponent, while in other instances you may need to knock out or even kill an opponent.  (Refer to “five ways to cause a knock out”)  

Set-up point:

            Set-up points are those which when struck a split second before another point will enhance the effect of the main strike. These can be found on most of the main points used in real self defense techniques.

Antidote:

            Some points have antidote points which can be used to reverse the effect of the harmful strike. However, some points are so dangerous that there is no antidote.

Healing:

            No art in hurting or killing is complete without knowledge of how to heal. Although a martial artist isn’t a licensed medical doctor, they should have a decent understanding of healing techniques which they can apply in martial arts related situations/scenarios. Obvious approaches such as first aid and CPR are vital to any martial artist. But there are also methodologies whereby one can use meridian points in a healing way, such as using ones fingers, palms, elbows, etc, or even by running ones hands over the body without touching it projecting Ki energy to certain areas.

Applications:

            Finally, one must know effective martial art techniques (blocking, striking, grabbing, kicking, etc) to apply dim-mak.  Consider that many people create martial arts hyung (forms) merely for their dramatic look or beauty.  But serious martial artists know that forms contain real applicable techniques for real fighting.  They know that one technique is followed by another which has a direct subsequent fighting application (block followed by strike, etc). 

Yet in the case of even more highly developed martial arts which use dim-mak forms/techniques, we learn that the hyung strategy is taken to a whole new level. Not only is there a basic block/strike type application available for anyone to learn, there are also hidden applications for those who understand dim-mak.  In these hidden applications, one learns all of the above mentioned specifics (point location, direction of strike, etc).

***

 

            Obviously through learning dim-mak one can decisively enhance their martial art. Yet to truly complete ones martial art journey (“Do” or the Way) one must develop their character, ethics and spiritual values transcending ego, striving and attaining enlightenment.

Some of the major problems with many martial arts today revolve around the over emphasis towards merely pugilistic and strenuous training approaches.  Another major problem lies with instructors who are egotistical and need to be noticed, popular or famous at the expense of the students or art. With the advent and popularity of martial sports, such as Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), violent and fantasy martial arts video games/movies, and the overall tendency for instant (albeit superficial) gratification, many martial artists have lost sight of the deeper more perennial aspects of our art. Suffice to say that there is a disdain or just plain apathy towards the “Do” (Way).   

It’s not that hard to hurt or even kill someone with some training.  However ask yourself, can you heal just as well?  How’s your self defense as it pertains to not only your or others physical bodies, but how is your defense against the enemies of your own psyche, emotions and other debilitating faculties?  It is incumbent that we understand the vital points of our inner being and annihilate any area which threatens our inner mastery.  Mastery of one’s self and all else will follow.

References:

1. http://www.yinyanghouse.com/
2. http://www.taijiworld.com/
3. Montaigue, Erle and Simpson, Wally; “The Encyclopedia of Dim-Mak”, Paladin Press, Boulder Co, 1997.
4. Montaigue, Erle, “Dim-Mak: Death Point Striking”, Paladin Press, Boulder Co, 1993.
5. Montaigue, Erle and Simpson, Wally; “The Encyclopedia of Dim-Mak: The Extra Meridians, Points and More”, Paladin Press, Boulder Co, 1997.
6. 6.      Tedeschi, Marc, “Essential Anatomy: for healing and Martial Arts” Weatherhill, 2000.

 

Author: Brian Alexander

October 24, 2009

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Taekwondo – As a Comprehensive Martal Arts

Martial arts is a broad topic based on a philosophical, scientific, artistic and spiritual approach.  The following are eight categories within the martial arts framework known as Mu Sool (Martial Skills). (1)

• Striking/ hitting techniques
• Avoiding and blocking techniques
• Holding or grabbing techniques
• Throwing techniques
• Weapons techniques
• Internal techniques
• Healing techniques
• Spiritual or metaphysical techniques

 

Mu Sool can also be categorized into four divisions. (2)

• Wae Kong  – which is the externalization of Nae Kong and deals with the offensive and defensive combative applications found within martial arts.

 

• Nae Kong – which deals with one’s internal energy (Ki power).

 

• Moo Gi Kong – which involves the offensive and defensive use of traditional weapons.

 

• Shin Kong – which is the study, development, and control of the human mind in order to attain one’s full potential and mental capabilities.

 

In this paper, martial arts and Taekwondo (TKD) are considered dynamic based action philosophies of Asia.  Their pragmatic science, art and philosophies revolve around the Eastern macrocosmic principal known as the Universal Law (Tao) and its microcosmic counterpart the Law of Change (Um/Yang).   Both of these in synthesis are known as Samjae (Triple Essence) where in the universe is divided into Heaven, Earth and the Human being.

The force by which all action is utilized is known as Ki.  The human’s ability to tap into this life force, via technique, is critical to the quality of energy receptivity and output they wield.  Hence, the greater ones power, knowledge, etc, the greater their connection to the Tao and subsequent Ki accessibility.  This, in turn, is proportional to the degree of balance they consciously wield in the Law of Change through their daily activity or martial arts training.

I believe that such concepts are indispensable to a comprehensive martial art as a way-of-life (”way-of-life” denoting a direct integrative synthesis between martial arts and ones daily activities).  Martial arts cannot utilize these principles optimally if there is an excessive co-dependence with external resources, such as the sciences and technology.  In other words, personal power and mastery of self is the quintessential attribute for the martial arts practitioner.  Thus, personal power is the only power one truly has control over and so any attainable information must be integrated via personal experience for it to be optimally valuable.  Validating information from anything but personal experience, regardless of what the masses do via social science, etc, can only lead to personal neglect and ignorance if direct integration and comprehension isn’t obtained.

At present Taekwondo (TKD) integrates some of the aforementioned categories and philosophy through its four core training methods, which are patterns (poomse or hyung), breaking (kyukpa), sparring (kyorugi), and self-defense techniques (hoshinsul).  

However, I am of the opinion that TKD should strive to be a more inclusive martial art eventually expanding into all eight categories, etc.  It should predominately focus on holistic paradigms, which in turn engender a stronger connection to self and martial arts as a fulfilling way-of-life.

As the world’s largest martial arts organization, with approximately 5 million black belts and 50 million practitioners residing in 170 nations, TKD has the necessary groundwork to effectively change into a more comprehensive system. (3) Such a large organization offers a vast resource for empirical research and development unpararelled by any other martial arts organization.  Conversely a major draw back due to its size, is the ability to find consensus regarding valid or accepted techniques followed by the difficult task of accurate dissemination and integration.    

However, with the advent of science and technology there has been a monumental increase in communication mediums and modes of transportation.  Such ability has made the world community smaller, contributing tremendously to the possibility of  cosmopolitan growth via person-to-person interaction unlike any in history.  As such, it is my belief that TKD has current and future resources available to facilitate a workable plan towards making it a more comprehensive martial art.

A major argument against expanding TKD into a comprehensive martial art is the appeal towards simplicity.   The theory being that the simpler the art form the more attention to detail and the greater mastery one can obtain.  While this is certainly true from a certain perspective, (this simplicity reflected in TKD’s premise that using kicking and punching predominately can be effectively utilized in most traditional combat scenario’s regardless of the opponents style of combat), it is reasonable to conclude that a grounded knowledge in other methods of defense/attack can assist in certain combative instances that the current art of TKD is not fully prepared to respond to. 

After attending the first Korean Taekwondo Association Instructions course in 1994 and subsequentially two United States Taekwondo Union Instructor courses, I have witnessed a need for comprehensive growth in TKD.  For instance, instead of these seminars being held in a metropolitan area/hotel why don’t they hold mountain style retreats instead.  Doing this would foster a stronger connection to the roots of TKD, via a strong connection to nature and simplicity.  This would set the tone for a more holistic approach that would resonate with the majority of TKD practitioners and not just sport minded athletes.  (Of course such an environment shouldn’t totally dismiss the utilization of any facilities or modern approaches via media, etc, where they may be needed.)

Also, too much emphasis is put on sport TKD and its particular technical approach.  I don’t understand this trend since the use of the whole body is needed in fighting and to forgo implementing the hands, grabbing, takedowns, weapons, etc, is unrealistic and eventually damaging to TKD as a martial arts.  Further, there are ways of conditioning the hands, etc, for kyukpa using special training methods and liniment that do not scare, disfigure, callous or redden the limbs.  And even more advance methods of conditioning using danjon hohup and meditation, which go beyond mere physical conditioning.  A comprehensive understanding of vital points for martial and healing needs should also be integrated combined with western medical approaches.   Finally, the option to defend physically doesn’t mean that physical harm should always be the end result of the conflict.  Knowing and utilizing certain non-collision/ redirecting techniques on your opponent resulting in little to no physical injury should also be a realistic option in pugilism energy/efforts.

By implementing the various topics I have generally discussed throughout this paper in a systemized and thorough manner TKD can expand its technical and scholastic repertoire to a level that few martial arts organization/ systems can compare to.  Such a change would catapult TKD to the forefront of true comprehensive martial arts and gain the respect and admiration of the martial arts community in the world.

 My views on this topic and TKD began when I meant my Master Sung Hong Park.  At the time, (in my teens), I had already studied under my cousin in an eclectic form of Shotokan and was well read on a diverse collection of martial arts.  However,  I wanted formal education.  So I chose to study with Master Park since after our meeting, I felt he represented a true master. In actuality I never sought to study TKD per say. 

In the successive years I have evaluated my choice to remain in TKD.  Overall it has been very enjoyable and good to me and yet I have often felt an affinity towards a more comprehensive system of martial arts.  I was fortunate to have a Master who had a diverse background and so this need was some what satiated.  As I mature the need to see TKD grow into a comprehensive martial art increases.  This is further prompted by TKD’s trend to disproportionately revolve around the sport and or economic/business sides which often over-shadows what I connote as the traditional martial arts values of TKD.

The term “tradition” may be a misnomer since it often precludes a static unbending concept attributed to mere culture or race.  But to me a traditional martial art doesn’t reflect a static predilection to some group or culture without room for growth.  It includes research, development and innovation, which in turn are tempered with the long time tested values of sound perennial tradition and lineage which the individual can integrate into their lives.  There is room in TKD for tradition, sport and business.  In fact it would be imprudent to disavow either since each projects a certain social pragmatic value and philosophical development. But in my humble opinion the trend to focus TKD around either the sport and or business paradigms is not as beneficial as focusing on a comprehensive martial arts approach.

Bibliography:

(1)   Tedeschi, Marc. Hapkido,  2000: Weatherhill, Trumbull, CT, p.18.

(2)   Website, http://www.hwarangdo.com/hrd3.htm.

(3)   Tedeschi, Marc. Taekwondo. 2003: Weatherhill, Trumbull, CT, p. 32.

Author: Brian Alexander

November 2003

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Our Symbolic Patch

The Park’s Martial Arts Patch was designed by Founder Grand Master Park with the help of his earliest group of Salisbury students. The patch has the five colors of our rank belt structure and are the same colors of the five elements from Chinese philosophy and medicine.

A. The color white represents metal energy and is a symbol of the beginning of one’s studies as well as a symbol of purity.

B. The color yellow represents earth energy and is a symbol of maturity.

C. The color blue represents wood energy and is a symbol of heaven or the sky.

D. The color red represents fire energy and is a symbol for heat and energy.

E.  The color black represents water energy and is a symbol for the combination of all the color.

The meaning of the symbols on the patch are:  The um/yang symbol represents the beginning: the place of martial arts in history of the history of mankind and growth of Park’s Martial Arts in the U.S.A.; the eagle is the king of all birds and the symbol of the U.S.A.  (Master Park is proud of his adopted land and he became a citizen at the earliest possible time).  Notice that the eagle’s wings are in a ‘V’ representing victory.  The globe symbolizes our association with the world and the spread of traditional martial arts as taught by GM Park.  It also represents the World Taekwondo Federation – in that Taekwondo was the initial martial art GM Park introduced here in America. The fist is an ancient martial arts symbol and represents bravery; the scroll symbolizes education, research and development.  It also represents the first goal of Park’s Martial Arts – developing high moral character – the study of a traditional martial arts is a pathway to personal enlightenment. 

The year 1981 is the founding year of Park’s Martial Arts is Salisbury, MD.; the Korean lettering initially spelled Taekwondo and Hapkido, but was revised in 2005 to spell Traditional Martial Arts, in order to more accurately reflect the growing arts that we taught.  The olive leaves remind us of the winners’ prize in the ancient Olympics.  Also the eight leaves on the left of the patch represents palgwe (the eight trigrams of Chinese philosophy) and the number eight (a symbol reflecting infinity). It also symbolizes the eight Taeguek poomse in Taekwondo that one seeks to master as they advance to their  black belt.  The two leaves on the right represent continual growth in all areas of martial arts training. 

Important reminders:  This patch is to be considered a “trade mark” and represents the high quality of traditional martial arts training that GM Park introduced to his students. The patch is to be respected just as we treat our national and state flags with respect. 

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Exercising with a Whole-Life Purpose

With a little bit of research one realizes that the health and fitness industry affects nearly everyone and is currently a huge multi-billion dollar industry and growing. But of course this makes sense because with out ones health how can one really enjoy life and live it to its fullest?

When I watch TV (which is rare anymore) I can’t help but notice the numerous advertisements, programs, etc, that are trying to the sell health related items, fitness equipment and exercise programs.  But unfortunately you rarely see anyone addressing whole-life health and fitness. Instead you see a focus geared merely towards superficial physical appearance and quick no-effort results.

People should realize that health and fitness is not a quick fix but a life-long pursuit. We must therefore be mindful daily and not let things get out of whack from improper living.  A person doesn’t get fit and keep it without effectively incorporating a healthy life style, or what we call in the martial arts a healthy way-of-life.

There are so many wonderful characteristic and benefits of traditional based martial arts that virtually do not exist in other heath and fitness programs. For example, sports, running and lifting weights can improve fitness but can they simultaneously teach you how to defend and heal yourself physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually?

Exercise, fitness and health is a by-product of a healthy lifestyle in conjunction with many other factors such as proper diet, reduction of stress and psychological mastery (including emotional mastery) along with spiritual based activities. In an ideal life (which we all can strive for) every activity which one does should benefit them in the most complete sense of the word. 

You may have heard that a person is a three-part being made up of a Body, Soul and Spirit. So, if we use this three-part model then it makes sense to identify what each of these “parts” mean. After which, we must determine how best to utilize them in a healthy way-of-life. 

Defining each “part” is not the purpose of this paper but I will address some of the “Body” attributes as they relate to exercise and fitness.

The following are Components of Physical fitness and can be found in a Traditional based Martial Arts.

Health Related Components: Those factors that are related to how well the systems of your body work

1.      Cardiovascular Fitness: The ability of the circulatory system (heart and blood vessels) to supply oxygen to working muscles during exercise.

2.      Body Composition: The relative percentage of body fat compared to lean body mass (muscle, bone, water, etc)

3.      Flexibility: The range of movement possible at various joints.

4.      Muscular strength: The amount of force that can be produced by a single contraction of a muscle

5.      Muscular endurance: The ability of a muscle group to continue muscle movement over a length of time.

Skill Related Components: Those aspects of fitness which form the basis for successful sports participation.

1.      Speed: The ability to move quickly from one point to another

2.      Agility: The ability of the body to change direction quickly

3.      Balance: The ability to maintain an upright posture while still or moving

4.      Coordination: Integration with hand and/or foot movements with the input of the senses.

5.      Reaction Time: Amount of time it takes to get moving.

6.      Power: The ability to do strength work at an explosive pace

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Recognizing a Quality Martial Arts School

How can I recognize a quality martial arts school?

This is one of the most fundamental and important questions asked. As such, it should have a comprehensive response. Please take the time to read this section as it benefits you or your childs martial arts education.

First, let us note that there are numerous reasons why people are interested in martial arts. Some of the common values are: bodily and mental health, self-protection, competition, and development of a philosophy applicable to everyday life. Park’s Martial Arts can teach any of these values depending on the students goals.

Martial arts is neither a day-care or sport facility, nor is it a mere hobby or archaic tradition of training brutes. It is a beautiful and noble art form which we are confident that you will come to embrace with pride and enthusiasm.  We believe that if there were more qualified black belts in the world today there would be less conflict and a greater appreciation for whole life values and practices.  This statement may seem somewhat contradictory since martial arts is a warrior path, but in time and with thoughful consideration the meaning and depth of this will become clear.

There are generally three factors in determining a quality martial arts school and owner.

1.  The school/owner is more concerned with teaching the well-balanced quality set forth in Whole-Life martial arts, (or what we call Traditional based Martial Arts), than with predominately seeking profit, mere pugilism, popularity and commercialistic trends.                                 

(Note: “Traditional Martial Arts” was a general term our founder used to express what he reffered to as authentic martial arts. Our use of the term does not mean to blindly following some cultural, archaic or static approach. Our usage of the term is also progressively dynamic and refers to an honorable connection to lineage, faithfulness and dedication to your mentors/peers, and holding onto tried and true methodologies when they remain useful.  It also connotes acceptance of new approaches when they have proven themselves irrefutably ethical, factual and true through tested careful observation.)

2.  A school owner/master has – in good standing – a martial arts lineage, certified teachers and traditions. (He’s not a lone wolf…or trying to reinvent the wheel.)

3.  The martial arts are of the highest quality and are optimally effective.

Further, a desirable master/instructor earns their position by:

• Being honorable, disciplined and devoted to his/her tradition and mentor. He/She has NOT created their own martial arts system, and does not promote himself/herself through the ranks, but earns it through an unbiased evaluation of the qualified master/system. He/She always gives credit where credit is due, (while a breech in doing this would be like stealing a patent or trademark).
• In rare cases an individual gains special unprecedented educated or even revelatory knowledge. This individual then becomes the founder or innovator of said knowledge and a new technique or approach is born. However, we know of no individual that has created an autonomous and complete martial arts system. As such, the question to ask is where did they learned their techniques if they didn’t create them? And did they gain the leagl or ethical rights to teach these techniques from the “source” by which they derived?

(Note: There is an unfortunate and popular trend now days  – which actually is not new at all – where schools are dishonorably leaving traditions/teachers creating their own variants of martial arts. In conjunction with this trend is that the term “Master” has become generic and unearned. The foundation of this trend seems to revolve around the primary motivation being monetary or egoistic. And so while these “schools” and their “masters” appear progressive and innovative, or even reflective of the “American Dream”, upon careful scrutiny they rarely offer anything new…

Further, many of them have simply stolen, converted and or shared, among other dishonorable persons, techniques so as to appear to have some semblance of continuing progressive education. Ironically and unfortunately these unscrupulous individuals often make huge incomes and attempt to patent, trademark or copyright techniques and materials that they dishonorably took from others. In the end these types only dilute the mission and values of traditional martial arts and drain the time and resources of the unsuspecting well meaning student. Our founder would often say that in time as people became educated they would learn the truth and things would be set right.)

In order to avoid losing valuable time and personal resources it is imperative that the school and owner be carefully evaluated.

Here’s a summary of things to look for:

• Is the school/owner a member “in good standing” with a traditional lineage/teacher and able to provide the certification, etc, to prove it? Is the school a member of an accredited martial arts national or international governing body?
• Does the school follow moral and ethical guidelines that are in accordance with your beliefs and values?
• Does the school offer a comprehensive life long educational program? Such a program should demonstrate the value of martial arts as a complete personal and social endeavor involving body, mind and spirit – in other words it teaches how to become a healthy and complete fulfiled human through the “Way” or “Do”.
• Does the school offer diversity in its instruction so you can have well rounded, optimal and effective skills and understanding of the martial arts?

As you can see there are many factors to consider for you and your family in deciding which is the right school. As such, the prospective school should be readily available to answer any questions you may have. Never settle for less than you deserve or for mere convenience. Take the time to do the research because life is too important to waste on insufficient or substandard educational programs.

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Grand Master Park Memoirs – Paper One

Grand Master Park believed that the martial arts were a very important component for the person who sought to have a well balanced way-of-life. Besides the obvious benefit of learning how to defend oneself, (which is one of the most fundamental disciplines any person could have since survival is a prerequisite to all other values), martial arts can improve one’s physical and psychological health/well-being and even contribute to ones spiritual life.

Many years ago Park’s Martial Arts was committed to doing a demonstration for the Salisbury Festival. Every student that was participating in the demonstration showed up on time for practice review except one particular black belt. So when the time came and we started to leave for the demonstration the black belt finally showed up. Grand Master Park asked where he had been and the black belt replied that he had been busy. Grand Master Park got very angry and said in broken English, “we all busy…you think you special?!” He then told the black belt to “go home”. To some this may seem a bit harsh but this black belt often had a tendency to be late to classes due to his “busy” excuses.

In our modern times you often hear people complain saying “I just don’t have the time”, “I’m too busy”, etc. The fact is that we all have the same time and that it is those who can organize their time and make appropriate life choices that become successful.

We should reflect carefully on the premise of having “no time”. Obviously, there are those times when true emergencies interrupt our routines and goals. However, if a person has too many “emergencies” then they are most likely doing something wrong which needs to be addressed and corrected.

Grand Master Park use to say that it is important to organize and discipline one’s life to include only those things which are of optimum benefit for oneself and those around them (whether through direct or indirect influence). He also said, that once a person makes a decision they should stick to it and strive to do their best.

The aware, educated and wise person seeks to constantly improve upon their life situation regardless of how little time or money they have or how difficult things become.

Whereas you may notice the unaware or uneducated person often complains about spending so much time and energy working that they can barely make ends meet, etc. Yet, have they actually paused to consider how they spend their time and money? Are they spending their time and money on frivolous or superficial entertainment? Do they watch too much TV, misuse alcoholic or drugs, attend too many parties, etc?

Chances are if they are doing these things they are seeking short term and immediate pleasure or relief. There is of course nothing wrong with seeking healthy personal pleasure/relief. But observe closely if the activities are merely to compensate for a stressful life, or a poor quality of life and life choices which one may continually make.

In additon, while it is true that these “quick fixes” provide pleasures they can and often do stifle lasting happiness. Therefore, one should distinguish between activities which stimulate superficial pleasures from those that promote long lasting happiness.

Too much dependency on external sources for pleasure and happiness leads to a lack of self worth and personal Mastery. This problem is ever more prevalent in modern culture with the advent of ever changing technologies. Children are being motivated and stimulated less by direct human interaction and more by TV, video games and other types of “hands off” social distractions.  For example, personal depth is circumvented by addiction to the “lastest greatest thing” instead of developing lasting personal respect and appreciation found through hard work and excellance in a substantial endeavor or human-to-human interaction.

Correcting this external focus, or “imbalance”, into more personal responsibility, accountability and discipline is one of many areas where PMA can help not only children but the adults as well.

By the time a student reaches black belt they should have a greater depth of understanding about themselves and their goals. Grand Master Park said, “one’s real training started at black belt…and that geup training was mainly exercise”.

Black belt students in particular reaffirm their commitment to continue their training along the “do/way”. There are many obstacles for the black belt to face. And in this period of character development some do not make it even to their 2nd Dan. There are of course numerous reasons for this. Things such as, they don’t like to teach and the necessary teaching requirements, or it takes too long to reach the next test date, or there’s too much time between learning new techniques, or they don’t feel like a black belt or worthy of taking their next test, or they get tired of perfecting techniques and refining routines, or they may simply be overwhelmed by the new techniques/curriculum, etc. Whatever the reason, black belt training will truly test and challenge the student to their fullest potentials.

PMA President
Master Brian Alexander

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