The Stupidest Fight Scene Ever

As much as I'd like to say something about this... I'm speechless!  How can something this horrific have over SEVEN MILLION HITS on YouTube?!?!

More Russian Martial Arts

This clip shows more of the empty hand and weapon responses to attacks.  The slow motion footage allows you to see some of the techniques in more detail.  In some instances the techniques closely resemble both Indonesian, Chinese and Filipino martial movement.  This is no surprise if you know anything about the history of Russian Martial Arts - they were a directive to train and assimilate martial knowledge from around the world and bring it "home" to improve the scope of Sambo.

Russian Martial Arts

Many of you aren't aware of the rich martial culture in Russia because it's not that well publicized.  Some of you have heard of Sambo (or Cambo) or even Systema - but for the most part they are overlooked in the Western martial arts community.  Following is a video that highlights both the  Sambo and Systema methods.

From Ip Man to Bruce Lee - Part Two

From Ip Man and Bruce Lee - Part One

This is a great interview with Guro Dan regarding the importance of Wing Chun to JKD.  It also gives you a chance to watch Guro Dan perform the foundational techniques of Jun Fan in an environment where you can keep rewinding to pick up what you missed at full speed! :)

Saturday AM Classes in December

We will be having Saturday morning Martial Arts Koncepts classes in December on 12/11/10 and 12/18/10 from 1000 to 1130 AM. Please mark your calendars NOW!

Traditional Kali Training

This video clip, obviously converted over from a Super 8 original, shows some traditional stick training sometime in the late 50's or early 60's.  Judging by the length of the stick and how it is being used I'm going to guess that this is a Largo system of some sort (from what I can glean from the comments it's Arnis De Mano).  Regardless, it's a good example of the training method for the long stick.

MMA and Soccer

Hmmm... let's get our kids to play soccer and learn teamwork and good sportsmanship! :P  After watching this clip I am amazed and appalled that this girl didn't get thrown out of the school much less tossed out of the game.  Something very, very wrong when this kind of thing happens and there are no repercussions.

Steven Seagal and Anderson Silva

I'm not sure how to characterize the look on Anderson Silva's face as he is working with Steven Seagal.  Disbelief... Idol Worship... a "what the f#$k" moment.  Regardless, this video is entertaining in one sense and disturbing in another.  Enjoy!

This Girl is on Fire

Check out this video of Vanessa Rojas. She has tremendous Muay Thai skills, a mastery of positioning and delivery, and is an amazing athlete.  Would love to watch her fight someday! :)

Chuck Norris vs Bruce Lee

Interesting excerpt from an interview with Chuck Norris where he talks about his time with Bruce Lee.  I particularly liked his comment that he was a professional fighter and Bruce wasn't...! :)

Post Turkey-day Adventure

Anyone interested in spending a couple hours on a ropes course in Sandy Spring, MD (15 minutes from Martial Arts Koncepts) on Friday November 26th, 2010?  We're planning on arriving there around 1000 AM and staying until we get too tired to play anymore!

If you are interested in coming (guests are welcome) contact Mike or sign up during class at MAK.

Sorry - another Karate Kid Video

I like this one because I always had a thing for Elizabeth Shue - especially as she got older and started to "mature".  Anyway - I thought of Thad and his "sweep the leg" t-shirt when I saw this! :)

Cobra Kai Karate!

For those of you that are old enough to remember the original "Karate Kid" - not the one with Jackie Chan - With Ralph Machio and Pat Morita, this compilation will bring back some memories! :)

Happy 235th Birthday USMC

I just wanted to pass on my thanks to all the men and women who serve our country every day - but I especially want to recognize the United States Marine Corps on their 235th birthday.  God Bless the men and women of the USMC - Semper Fidelis!

Saturday AM Classes in November

We will be having Saturday morning Martial Arts Koncepts classes in November on 11/13/10 and 11/27/10 from 1000 to 1130 AM. Please mark your calendars NOW!

NOTE: for those of you looking for one-on-one training sessions you will need to get them on the calendar ASAP.  Between new clients and FMS screening of existing clients it's going to get very busy around MAK in the coming months.

RIP GM Ernesto Presas Sr. (1945 - 2010)

The Filipino Martial Arts community lost another cornerstone with the Death of GM Ernesto Presas Sr.  He was a dynamic instructor in his own right and worked tirelessly to promote the Filipino Martial Arts.  He will be missed...

Guro Dan Inosanto at the Smithsonian Institution

Guro Dan Inosanto was invited to speak at the Smithsonian Institution in October as part of their Filipino Heritage month events.  The following video from the (MMAinDC.com website) is just the FMA demonstration that he did.  To see the panel discussion, demonstration, and Q&A you will need to go to the UStream.tv website.

Saturday AM Classes in October

We will be having Saturday morning Martial Arts Koncepts classes in October on 10/09/10 and 10/30/10 from 1000 to 1130 AM. Please mark your calendars NOW!  NOTE: for those of you looking for one-on-one training sessions you will need to get them on the calendar ASAP. My travel schedule is going to be pretty tight in October and November so get on the schedule NOW.

RIP Ben Largusa (1926 - 2010)

Grand Master Ben Largusa was one of the first men to bring the Kali into the United States public arena. At the 1964 Ed Parker International Karate Championships held in Long Beach, California, he gave America its first demonstration of Kali. Also in attendance were numerous martial artists from around the world, including Ed Parker, Bruce Lee, Dan Inosanto, and Jhoon Rhee.

Born on Kauai, Hawaii on December 21, 1926, Grand Master Largusa's first exposure to Kali came when as a toddler, he watched the Filipino men in his hometown of Kilauea, Kauai, Hawaii practice with the sticks.

RIP Christopher "Topher" Ricketts (1955 - 2010)

I heard the Topher as battling cancer but I expected him to pull through - I guess not.

He was a warrior and a proponent of the Filipino Martial Arts to his last breath.  I hope he is in a better place now and that he and PG Edgar Sulite can get back to training together.

Would Love To Do This...

I would love to be able to do this but I think the only person I know who would have a chance to pull this off would either be Ryan or Thad! :)

Something Fun for a Change!

In Rememberence: 09/11/01

It's hard to believe that it's been nine years since the attacks on the World Trade Center.  Like many of you, I can tell you exactly where I was and what I was doing when the first plane hit.  The ensuing confusion and disbelief of the first strike was nothing compared to the realization that it was the first of several coordinated attacks.

The media, and most Americans, have forgotten what it felt like that day to watch people jump to their deaths from the upper floors of the WTC instead of burning alive.  I haven't forgotten - and I never will.  I think we should see those images every day to keep the pain fresh in our minds so that we will remember what our warriors are risking their lives for every single day.

"Never Back Down"

While the movie was forgettable the training that the cast went through was awesome.  Erik Paulson and Damon Caro were tasked with bringing the actors up to speed in striking, takedowns and submissions.  While the story was weak and the dialogue stilted, at least the actors looked solid in their action sequences.

Striking for MMA

Being able to strike and defend is the basis for any good martial art.  Being able to develop those skills in others takes skills and insights that few teachers have.  Erik just happens to be one of the teachers who are adept at being on either side of the gloves or focus mitts.

MAK/CFK Workout and Cookout on Labor Day

For those of you who are staying in town this weekend we are planning on having a CrossFit workout at 1100 AM on Labor Day followed by a cookout sometime after 1200 PM.  If you are interested in attending please RSVP so that we can plan the food requirements and fire up the grills!

Saturday AM Classes in September

We will be holding Saturday AM classes on 09/04/10 and 09/18/10.  Please mark your calendars and l look forward to seeing you in class!

Damon Caro, Burton Richardson, Chad Stahelski, Ron Balicki, etc.

This is a clip of the Inosanto Academy Demo Team at the Chinese New Year celebration in 1992.  Take a look at the faces and see how many you can recognize!

"Machete"

I'm a HUGE Robert Rodriguez fan and it all started with "From Dusk til Dawn" and "Desperado".  If you've never seen "From Dusk til Dawn" then you should - it's a classic!  How could you go wrong directing George Clooney, Quentin Tarantino, Salma Hayek, Cheech Marin and Harvey Keitel?  Not to mention that it set the standard for every Mexican vampire picture ever made!!! :)

Anyway, his newest movie is called "Machete" and is coming out this weekend.  I'm hoping to get to see it, but until I do I'll just have to settle for watching the preview:

Tackles, Takedowns, Throws and Counters

Following is another video from Erik Paulson giving some great background on single and double leg takedowns.  BTW - this was filmed at the old Inosanto Academy in Marina Del Rey, CA at least 10 years ago.

No Arms, No Legs and No Worries

Watch this video and think about all of the excuses you make for not doing your best in your life, your relationships and in your training.  You've got no limitations - only the ones that you make for yourself.

"Sucker Punch"

Love them or hate them, Zack Snyder makes visually stunning movies that are packed with action and fights (think "300" and "The Watchmen").  One of his latest projects is called "Sucker Punch" and it's due in theaters in 2011.  Looks like a MAK Movie night to me...

Sparring as "Sharpening the Blade"

There is a Japanese martial philosophy behind training as a method of keeping "the blade" (i.e., the mind, body, and spirit) sharp and resilient.  A common method of doing this is through harsh training methods (look up the term Shugendo) or through sparring.  Unfortunately most sparring sessions look like a "cluster f#$k" with gloves on.  Egos and tempers get in the way and the sparring session quickly degrades into a brawl.  Watch the following video from Erik Paulson's CSW Training Center to see two well trained athletes test each other out and develop their timing speed and power.

Jane Austen's Fight Club

I have no idea how I can across the link (might have been on Fark) but I really got a kick out of it - no pun intended!  Think about combining Jane Austen and Fight Club - CLASSIC!  Almost as good as combining Jane Austen and Zombies - now that's quality entertainment!!!  Enjoy!

Judo at the CSW Training Center

Everyone knows that I think Erik Paulson is one of the best MMA trainers in the business.  Disregard that he's a friend and a full instructor under Guro Dan Inosanto - focus on the information he puts out, the people that he trains and his enthusiasm for the grappling game.  Erik is an amazing instructor and a masterful technician... and he hits like a sledgehammer!

In this video, which it looks like Erik shot with a hand-held camera, a series of "classic" Judo throws are demonstrated by one of his CSW students from Germany.  Great info and it fits right into the "K.I.S.S." methodology that I profess.

Do You Have a Chubby?

My good friend Richard "Army" Maguire has designed a new training bag that he calls a "Chubby".  I had a chance to work with one while I was in LA and it truly is an amazing training tool.  The one I worked with was filled with Mung Beans and weighed about 20 pounds.  It was solid (due the the 20+ pounds of beans inside it) and felt like you were punching someone in the face.  You can imagine that I really liked that... and look for four of them to be hanging in the school sometime soon!

Here is what Army says about the Chubby:

"New bag I developed called the "Chubby'  in use with BJPenn UFC fighter
and MMA superstar.  This bag is multi-functional for developing hand
conditioning , maize bag, top bottom bag application ground and pound as
well as lock compression development as demoed her by Baby J himself.  This
bag also great for kids and can be taken with you as a traveling companion
piece of equipment."

Here is a picture of BJ Penn "choking" the Chubby -

"The Expendables"

So what do you get when you bring together all of the action movie stars of the last 20+ years (with the exception of Clint Eastwood)?  You get lots of fighting, explosions and really bad one-liners!  What - you expected compelling dialogue and insight into the nature of man?  Get out of your mother's basement and just enjoy the show...

Meet Tsuyoshi Abe

Many of know Tsuyoshi from when he traveled with Guro Dan as his assistant during seminars. Others may recognize him from the work he has done on TV and in movies. If you have no idea who I am talking about then it's my distinct pleasure to introduce you to Tsuyoshi Abe... you'll enjoy this!

Grandmater Nene Gaabucayan Balintawak Escrima Demo - I

The following video was shot at the Inosanto Academy of Martial Arts in Marina Del Rey, CA.  GM Nene demonstrates the basic structure of the NNG System.  Notice the close range and speed the strikes, ripostes and defenses occur.

Kenny Johnson is Onboard for the KFW in Los Angeles, CA

Kenny Johnson is a multi-Olympic wrestling champion, trainer to the top flight MMA fighters (think BJ Penn and others) and he is also Guro Dan's wrestling coach. With credentials like that you've got to know that Kenny really has something to offer!

When he found out about our KFW event in Los Angeles Kenny volunteered to do take some time out of his phenomenally busy schedule to do a one hour takedown clinic for us. Attendees will get a chance to work with Kenny and hear and see what all the buzz is all about. The workshop is free but a donation to the Kettlebells For Warriors event is requested... or Kenny is going to tie you up in knots! :)

Guro Dan Inosanto Seminar - July 17 & 18, 2010

Guro Dan Inosanto will be at the Trident Academy of Mixed Martial Arts in Woodbridge, VA on July 17 and 18, 2010.  This is an excellent opportunity to train with one of the most learned and influential martial arts instructors of our time.  Don't miss this chance to experience firsthand the history, tradition and martial knowledge of arts from China, the Philippines, Indonesia, and elsewhere from Guro Dan himself.

For more information please contact Pat and Tina Trey at the Trident Academy of Mixed Martial Arts via phone at 703/490-2425.

Happy Birthday America

Saturday AM Classes in July 2010

We will be having Saturday morning Martial Arts Koncepts classes in July on 07/10/10 and 07/24/10 from 1000 to 1130 AM. Please mark your calendars NOW!

Mike Krivka at the Central Pennsylvania Warrior Challenge

Just wanted to pass on to you guys the coverage we got from appearing at the Central Pennsylvania Warrior Challenge a couple weeks ago.  I had a great time watching the fights and meeting a lot of people, especially the event sponsor Master Gunny Mark Jovich.


The following day I had the honor of being part of a round-robin workshop given by Dan Severn, Fernando Bernadino and myself.  Check out this link to see pictures and a short write-up about the event.  After talking to MG Mark and Dan we are hoping to make this a regular event or even expand it.

NOTE: Pictured are Mike Krivka, Dan Severn, MG Mark Jovich, Fernando Bernadino, and Mike Locondro (from York Barbell).

Kettlebells For Warriors / Wounded Warrior Project Update

The Kettlebells For Warriors (KFW) events that I am coordinating was mentioned in Pavel's newsletter today and I have received numerous emails asking about the events and people volunteering to help out.  I thank you all for your support and encouragement.  This has been a daunting task to undertake but every email or phone call that I get motivates me to keep working to make this project a success and give something back to the men and women who have given so much for us.

Amazing Demonstration of Strength

I have the privaledge of calling Richard "Army" Maguire my friend, but he is much more than that.  Army is has an amazing mind for the martial arts and knack for developing tools to make you a better martial artist.  He is also an amazing athlete and has incredible hand strength.  I have seen him shatter concrete blocks with his hands and tear decks of cards and phone books as well... if Army gets his hands on you pain is sure to follow! :)

The following video shows Army tearing a 2000+ page phone book in half:

Saturday AM Classes in June 2010

We will be having Saturday morning Martial Arts Koncepts classes in June on 06/05/10 and 06/19/10 from 1000 to 1130 AM.  Please mark your calendars NOW!

Kettlbells for Warriors Update - 05/31/10

The York Barbell Company, The CrossFit Journal and Dragon Door have joined forces with Russian Kettlebell Certified (RKC) instructor, Michael Krivka, to raise awareness and funds for the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) through the 1st Annual Kettlebells for Warriors (KFW).

Krivka and his national sponsors have organized four fund raising events for the summer of 2010, with several more planned for the fall. Each event consists of a six hour Russian Kettlebell workshop where participants will learn the fundamental skills and techniques to safely and effectively use this powerful fitness tool. Workshop participants will receive a full day of professional Kettlebell training for the discounted price of $150.00/person with all profits going directly to the WWP to fund unique, direct programs and services to meet the needs of America's wounded warriors.

"These men and women have sacrificed so much," says Krivka, "and their service doesn't end when they come home. They continue their long painful journey by working hard to heal their minds and bodies. We wanted to raise awareness and funds by honoring their sacrifice and journey back to health with our own pain, sweat and tears. The Kettlebells for Warriors events give people a chance to directly impact the lives of our warriors while making a difference in their own health and well being - everyone wins."

The first event is scheduled for July 10 in York, Pennsylvania at the York Barbell Company corporate headquarters. The following three events are scheduled for July 31 in Los Angeles, California, August 07 in San Diego, California and September 11 in Washington, D.C. Additional events are planned for Atlanta, Georgia, Chicago, Illinois and Dallas, Texas in the fall of 2010.

For more information about the project, and for organizations and individuals who want to know how to help sponsor the fund raising efforts of the 1st Annual Kettlebells for Warriors, contact Mike Krivka at kettlebellsforwarriors@gmail.com or at 301/404-2571.


Platinum Sponsor Information

York Barbell

Named the "Father of World Weightlifting" by the International Weightlifting Federation, Bob Hoffman founded York Barbell in 1932.

The York Barbell name is synonymous with the essence of weightlifting since its inception, 85 years ago. York Barbell Company and its legendary Olympic weightlifting team, The York Barbell Club, wrote a substantial chapter in the biography of weightlifting, equipment development, and the nutritional supplement industry. York Barbell began shaping the fitness industry through product design, education, competition and athletic sponsorship and pioneered many of todays accepted exercise philosophies. The renowned York Barbell Club dominated the Olympic scene with over 40 national championships and numerous Olympic Gold Medalists.

For more information, visit www.yorkbarbell.com.

The CrossFit Journal

The CrossFit Journal is a fitness, health and lifestyle publication dedicated to the improvement of athletic performance and quality of life. The searchable Journal archives run from April 2002 to the present and contain over 1,200 high-quality PDF articles, videos and audio files covering diverse topics including exercise technique, nutrition, injuries and rehab, equipment, coaching, and much more.

The CrossFit Journal provides a forum for elite coaches and athletes and fitness professionals from around the world, as well as beginners, new athletes and people simply looking to improve their health and fitness. All are welcome to discuss the articles in our comments section, where members of our community offer advice and collectively advance the science of fitness and performance.

New material is published on a daily basis, with the CrossFit Media Team traveling the world to provide exclusive coverage of special events and stories. Top trainers and coaches present their ideas, and everyone is welcome to submit articles and videos of interest to the community.

The CrossFit Journal is the modern manual of fitness and health.

For more information, visit journal.crossfit.com

Dragon Door

John Du Cane - author, martial arts practitioner and founder of Dragon Door Publications. Dragon Door is the premier Internet-based clearinghouse of information, products, resources and networking for all things Kettlebells, martial arts, conditioning, strength, flexibility and advanced fitness resources. The company also provides resources on general and internal health management and stress reduction through holistic mind/body health and fitness.

For more information, visit www.dragondoor.com

Pavel Tsatsouline - former Soviet Special Forces instructor and fitness consultant to US military and law enforcement is credited with popularizing Kettlebell fitness in the United States and makes his 'low tech/high concept' strength programs available to civilians through books, videos, workshops and certifications worldwide. Due primarily to his efforts Kettlebells are the number one selling fitness tool in the world, passing Pilates and Yoga in 2009 as the most popular fitness method in the US.

For more information, visit www.powerbypavel.com


KFW Lead Instructor - Michael A. Krivka
A Washington, DC native, Michael has been involved in training with Kettlebells since 2001, is an RKC (Russian Kettlebell Certified) instructor under Pavel Tsatsouline, and is the number one reviewed Kettlebell instructor in the world on the Dragon Door Web site. Michael travels extensively throughout the United States teaching Russian Kettlebells to a wide variety of people, such as SWAT/SERT teams, USMC officers and enlisted personnel, MMA and BJJ practitioners and even soccer Moms and Dads. He is universally lauded as an "exemplary instructor, an outstanding motivator and a highly accomplished and technically precise practitioner of the Kettlebell."

Michael is also a Level I CrossFit Trainer, CrossFit Kettlebell and Olympic Lifting Trainer, and operates a CrossFit affiliate (CrossFit Koncepts) in Gaithersburg, MD. For more detailed experience and credential information about Michael Krivka, lead instructor for the 1st Annual Kettlebells for Warriors events, please visit the following Web sites: CrossFit Koncepts and Martial Arts Koncepts.

Workshop, Donation and Sponsor Information
Additional information about these events will be posted on the York Barbell, CrossFit Journal and Dragon Door websites in addition to emails and other online postings.

A donation page is going to be established for each event and will be posted shortly. NOTE: WWP Event ID: 239958

Sponsors interested in becoming part of this series of events should contact Michael Krivka immediately via email at kettlebellsforwarriors@gmail.com or at 301/404-2571 for sponsorship details.

Steven Seagal Sings the Blues

Steve is singing the blues for more than one reason nowadays.  His TV show, which was absolutely hilarious to watch, is on "hiatus" until he is cleared of criminal charges related to his "relationship" with one of is assistants.  Will Steve return to TV anytime soon?  Your guess is as good as mine - but at least we have his music to keep us happy until then! :)

Erik Paulson Seminar - 05/22 and 05/23/10

Erik Paulson will be at the Trident Academy of Martial Arts for a two day seminar on Combat Submission Wrestling.  If you are not familiar with Erik then you should know that he is a full instructor under Guro Dan Inosanto, has a Black Belt in BJJ, a master at leg locks (I suffered through pretty much all of them), has won the light-heavyweight Shooto title several times, has trained the best and brightest in the MMA world, etc.

Take the time and make the seminar - you will be glad that you did!

The Way of the Warrior with Guro Dan Inosanto

The following clip is from a BBC documentary on martial arts.  This segment features Guro Dan Inosanto teaching at the original Inosanto Academy of Martial Arts in Marina Del Rey, CA.  I have a lot of fond memories of being in awe of the place and the people I was training with there.  I also collected a lot of bruises, at least one scar, and I'm sure I left a lot of brain cells there as well.

BTW - look for Jeff Imada and Cass Magda doing trapping to grappling techniques during the training sequences.

Guro Dan Inosanto and Sifu Larry Hartsell

Sifu Larry has been gone for many years now but if you want to being a smile to Guro Dan's face and a tear to his eyes all you have to do is ask him about his best friend.  The following is an extract from a video shot in Australia about 20 years ago.  There's a brief exchange of trapping to grappling that I thought you would be interested in seeing.

Saturday AM Classes in May 2010

We will be having Saturday morning Martial Arts Koncepts classes in May on 05/08/10 and 05/22/10 from 1000 to 1130 AM.  Please mark your calendars NOW!

Human Weapon

I enjoyed watching this series after class sometimes, luckily the DVR was not yet full of "Arthur" or "The Suite Life" as it is now. Oftentimes the shows were more funny than enlightening, but occasionally they got it right. Is this show still being produced anymore?

Extreme Marksman - The Whip

I've had the pleasure of working with Anthony DeLongis on a couple of occasions and am honored to call him a friend. Anthony is a gifted and talented martial artist and a great teacher - work with him if you get the chance! The following video highlights Anthony's whip skills which are amazing to watch and scary to be at the other end of. BTW - check out the background of the video. It was shot at Anthony's ranch in California... do you understand now why I enjoy visiting his place when I'm on the West Coast? :)

Combat Pistol Craft

I've always tried to keep my firearms skills up to date but "back in the day" when we just to be range rats we'd piss off the old Range Masters with the crazy scenarios we would do in order to simulate "real life" shooting.  Nowadays everyone is doing it!!! :)

The following video is by Gabe Suarez and he demonstrates some interesting gun craft.  I haven't trained with Mr. Suarez yet - but he's on my short-list of people I need to meet and work with.  Enjoy the video and contemplate if your firearms skills are functional or fictional.

Interesting Application of FMA Skills

Aside from the obvious knife skills that are displayed in the video below there are a couple really interesting applications of the pistol and baton.  Take a look and see if you can recognize which FMA system the instructor has trained in.  Enjoy!

New Documentary on the Filipino Martial Arts

Thanks to my good friend Army Maguire for forwarding me this information.  Not much more to add, past watching the video, other than it looks like this will be available via DVD later this year.  NOTE: this was shot in HD so all of the embedded players are very wide.  Double click on the player to watch it directly at YouTube.

Saturday AM Classes in April 2010

We will be having Saturday morning Martial Arts Koncepts classes in April on 04/10/10 and 04/24/10 from 1000 to 1130 AM.  Please mark your calendars NOW!

Kaizen and the Martial Arts

I first learned about the word "Kaizen" many years ago while reading a motivational book by Anthony Robbins.  Kaizen is a Japanese term that means continuous improvement (within a process or an environment or within all aspects of your life).  The Kaizen philosophy has had a tremendous impact in the manufacturing process in Japan but also has relevance to your personal development.

Kaizen in your martial training means that you make small steps and continuous progress towards mastering the basic skills and techniques.  The ability to make small changes that keep you moving forward will help you grow faster than if you try to make broad sweeping changes.  Things like being mindful of your hand position during striking, your heel position during footwork or your weapon chambers during Kali class will have a lasting and profound impact on your future training and abilities.  By focusing on improving your comprehension and ability with the basic skills you will be setting the groundwork for future improvements and leaps in understanding.

MAK and CFK Spring Fling on 04/10/10

Save the evening of April 10th, 2010 for dinner and fun with your friends at MAK and CFK.  We're going to have a semi-formal (that's ties for the guys and dresses for the girls) pot-luck dinner and get together to enjoy each others company and have a little fun.  More details to follow... but line up the babysitter now!

Rembering Punong Guro Edgar Sulite

I was going through some paperwork the other day and came across some handwritten notes by PG Edgar Sulite about his ranking system for Lameco Eskrima.  We were working together to get the requirements and skills outlined so that he could present the whole system to the FMA community.  We spent a lot of time hashing out the skills, drills and training requirements that each level would need.  Unfortunately his passing in 1997 pretty much closed the door on this ever happening.  PG Edgar was an engineer by trade and had a very systematic mind when it came to organizing his training material - we lost a tremendous resource when he left us.

Here is a clip from a seminar he did for MAK back in 1992:

Congratulations to Burton and Sarah Richardson!

I've known Burton for a long time - probably a lot longer than either of us want to admit or even remember!  He's a very talented fighter and martial artist (who has a critical eye for what will and what won't work in a fight) and a really great person.  Add to that his wonderful wife and partner Sarah and you have an incredible couple - who are now complete with the birth of their daughter Queen!  Congratulations!!!

Jeff Rockwell - Refelcts on Training at Martial Arts Koncepts

This note is from a long-time student of mine named Jeff Rockwell.  Jeff started with me while he was attending college and has kept in touch over the years.  Jeff wrote this to me after he received has Black Bell in BJJ:

Hey Mike, hope this finds you and your family doing well! I just wanted to say thanks for all the amazing training and instruction you gave me over the years.  I just reached a milestone in my jiu-jitsu career; I received my black belt from Tony Passos and Ricardo De La Riva.   It is very surreal to me in many ways, and as I take some time to step back and reflect on how I got here, there are a few people that I realize I could not have done it without, and you are definitely one of them.   The memories I have of training with you and your students are extremely fond, and the thing that I learned from you above all else is to constantly strive for technical perfection - in everything.  It was a lesson you gave me that I came to realize I took for granted as I traveled across the country and trained; many others have an attitude of "that's close enough if it works in the moment".  While perhaps never totally attainable, striving for that technical perfection is what will pay off in the long run, both for your own development, and against the best opponents.

Thank you for helping me learn so many things about so many martial arts, about how to train technically, and about life.  I still have a long way to go, but you were a big part of getting me where I am.

Muay Thai with Ajarn Chai Sirisute

Training in Muay Thai with Ajarn Chai is always a treat. His understanding of the art of Muay Thai is amazing and his teaching style is easy to understand and to the point. In the following video clip (narrated by Guro Dan Inosanto) Ajarn Chai demonstrates some of the foundational techniques and applications of Muay Thai.

Saturday AM Classes in March 2010

We will be having Saturday morning Martial Arts Koncepts classes in March on 03/13/10 and 03/27/10 from 1000 to 1130 AM.  Please mark your calendars NOW!

Erik Paulson - 05/22/10 and 05/23/10

Erik Paulson will be giving a CSW/MMA seminar at Trident Academy (in Woodbridge, VA) on May 22nd and 23rd, 2010.  If you've never had the chance to train with Erik you should take this opportunity to do so.  Erik is an incredible instructor as well as being a phenomenal coach (who has trained and cornered some of the top MMA fighters in the world).

Next MAK Saturday Class - 02/27/10

Just a reminder that we do have a Martial Arts Koncepts class this coming Saturday (02/27/10) from 1000 AM to 1130 AM.  See you there!

No MAK Class on 02/11/10

We're still waiting for the road to the school to be plowed so we will have our next MAK class on Saturday (02/13/10).  Be safe in the snow until then and enjoy the following video:

Training the Contra Sumbrada

The following video is from the early 1990's and I'm being assisted by my good friend Joe Marszalek.  Joe and I are demonstrating the High Box from the Contra Sumbrada series taught by Guro Dan Inosanto.  Note that we are doing it both right handed and left handed... :)

Eskrimadors

There is a new documentary on the Filipino martial arts that premiered last week in Cebu that some of you might be interested in.  It is called "Eskrimadors" and it highlights many of the old masters and tells of their many Juego Todo ("anything goes") fights and training methods.

There are a couple brief trailers from the documentary available online at www.eskrimadorsdocu.com if you are interested in getting a preview of the action.  No word yet when it will be available in the United States.

The Evolution of JKD

Many will argue that JKD is a collection of disjointed techniques or a compendium of philosophies from various martial arts and religions. Others will argue that JKD is a moment in time... a snapshot Sigung Bruce's training regimen from 1966, 1967, 1968, etc. Of course there are others who will argue that they have surpassed Bruce and have the "new and improved" JKD for the masses.

I'm of the mind that JKD is a never ending process of discovery, experimentation, analysis, research and enlightenment; and within that process is the price that each and every practitioner must pay for the gift: blood, sweat, tears, pain and humility. To freeze JKD in time is to lose its essence. To add techniques just for the sake of adding is to bastardize the whole philosophy that Sigung Bruce was working towards.

The Evolution of JKD

Tao of Chinese Gung Fu
1959 - 1962
(San Francisco, CA and Seattle, WA)
Consists primarily of Wing Chun Gung fu and Fencing methodologies. This was the "original" system that Sigung Bruce Lee created to express his views on personal combat. There were three instructors made by Sigung Bruce Lee: Dan Inosanto, Taky Kimura and James Lee (Deceased).

Lee Jun Fan Gung Fu
1962 - 1965
(Seattle, WA and Oakland, CA)
Consists of a distinct curriculum, methodology and training progression. Contains an understanding that there is no “best” style for the individual student. Underlying philosophy of victory through superiority within a combat range or by changing the rules in combat to nullify and opponents superiority within a range. This art was directly or indirectly influenced by over 26 different martial arts from Wing Chun, Kali to Muay Thai. Bruce Lee introduced the use of equipment in training i.e. kicking shield and focus mitts. Advocates researching other martial arts to improve your understanding of your own art.

Jun Fan Training consists of:

• Punching and Striking techniques
• Kicking and Knee techniques
• Chin Na / Joint Locking
• Choking and Strangling
• Grappling, Throwing, Takedown and Sweeping techniques
• Practical Weapons and application

Jun Fan Sub-Systems:

• Jan Fan Streetfighting
• Jun Fan Boxing (Western)
• Jun Fan Kickboxing
• Jun Fan Wing Chun Gung Fu
• Jun Fan Grappling

Jun Fan Weaponry

• Single Stick
• Double Sticks
• Long and Short Stick
• Whip
• Nunchuck
• Staff
• Spear
• Knife
• Firearms

Jeet Kune Do Concepts
1965 - Today
(Los Angeles, CA)
The "Research and Development" aspect of Lee Jun Fan Gung Fu. Used as a "tool" to evaluate/assimilate other training methodologies and techniques. Serves as a "litmus" test for the viability of training methodologies and techniques in a combative environment.

The Four JKD groups vying for attention in the martial arts community:

JKD Concepts

• Sifu Dan Inosanto
• Burton Richardson (NOTE: made instructor by Dan Inosanto after Bruce Lee's death)
• Paul Vunak (NOTE: made instructor by Dan Inosanto after Bruce Lee's death)
• Tim Tackett (NOTE: made instructor by Dan Inosanto after Bruce Lee's death)
• Larry Hartsell (Deceased)

JKD Nucleus

• Ted Wong (NOTE: made instructor by Dan Inosanto after Bruce Lee's death)
• Dan Lee (NOTE: made instructor by Dan Inosanto after Bruce Lee's death)
• Chris Kent (NOTE: made instructor by Dan Inosanto after Bruce Lee's death)
• Richard Bustillo (NOTE: made instructor by Dan Inosanto after Bruce Lee's death)

Original JKD

• Lamar Davis (No direct linkage to Bruce Lee or Dan Inosanto)
• Gary Dill (Short-term student of Taky Kimura)

JKD Fighting Strategies

• Joe Lewis (Private student of Bruce Lee; ~5-7 hours of training)
• Dr. Jerry Beasley (No direct linkage to Bruce Lee or Dan Inosanto)

Kali Hubud Training - circa 1990?

Many of you commented on the video of me teaching Ninjutsu and wanted to see more - I'm getting the impression that you are just laughing your butts off at my expense! Anyway, here's a clip of me teaching a Kali workshop and discussing the finer points of Stick Grappling from the Hubud structure.

Huh - did I miss something?

I stumbled across this video while I was trying to find something from Cass Magda... and I don't really know what to say. The person who created the video listed Cass, among others like Guro Dan Inosanto, as the originator of the information that he is demonstrating. You watch it and tell me what you think...

Burton Richardson - 1995

This video was shot at our old school in the airpark in Gaithersburg, MD back in 1995. Burton Richardson is the guest instructor and he's walking us through some of the basics from JKD Kickboxing into Maphilindo Silat.

A Blast From the Past

Most of my students only know me as a JKD or Filipino Martial Arts instructor and don't realize that I've been at this for almost 35 years. The following video is from 1990 when 4th degree Black Belt teaching Bujunkan Ninpo Taijutsu (Ninjutsu). I definitely sound the same but I think I look and move quite differently now...

Development of the Trapping Range in Kali

In this video Guro Dan, assisted by Simo Paula Inosanto, demonstrate the basic structure of Higot Hikot Hubud Lubud or, as it is called by some, Hubad, as well as Baston y Daga or Stick and Dagger basics. Watch for hand positioning, chambering and continuity of striking throughout the techniques and transitions between techniques. Note how easily the knife is inserted into the Hubud structure and how its addition not only supplements your understanding of Hubud but broadens it as well.

Kali Empty Hand Technique with Guro Dan Inosanto

The following video highlights the techniques that we are working on in this months Kali instructional block. The techniques that Guro Dan demonstrates give a good indication of the structure for the empty hand system from the Philippines as well as how it easy to interject the blade into the technique. Look for positioning, conservation of movement as well as shoulder positioning. Guro Dan makes it look easy... hopefully you know better than that!

Muay Thai 16 Count Training

Being able to use your hands, feet, elbows and knees (and head if necessary) isn't really an option - it's a requirement. The following video is one of the many Muay Thai 16 counts the train both offense and defense as well as how to deal with different distances (as well as different timing, reach and rhythm of various feeders). It's not perfect - but it's a good start!

MAK Class - Saturday January 23, 2010

The next scheduled Saturday morning class for Martial Arts Koncepts is on January 23, 2010. I would like to cover some extensions to the knife series we are currently working on but that will be dependent upon on how many of you have ordered and received your Lameco arm guards from Felicia Sulite.

If you haven't ordered them yet what are you waiting for? Go to the Lameco Website and order them - NOW!

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with Jean Jacques Machado

Jean Jacques is an amazing athlete, an inspiring teacher and a phenomenal competitor. If you ever have the chance to train with him in BJJ I would highly suggest that you take advantage of the opportunity - you will be a better martial artist and person for it.

Guro Dan Inosanto and Steven Seagal

Someon asked me recently which movie Guro Dan appeared with Steven Seagal in... and for the life of me I couldn't remember the name! Thank God for Gooogle to refresh the parched brain cells! Enjoy the video and try not to make fun of the bad toupee!



BTW - did you notice that Steven Seagal had to fight from his knees in order to not TOWER over Guro Dan! There has got to be an over 18 inch difference in height that would have made shooting that scene very difficult.

"The Book of Eli"

The martial arts that we teach at Martial Arts Koncepts have been featured in a number of movies (like "300", "Fight Club", "The Crow", the "Bourne" series, and many more). The most recent film to feature not only the arts but some of our friends is "The Book of Eli" which started today (01/15/10). The fight choreographer for the film was Jeff Imada who trained Denzel Washington for several months prior to filming. Guro Dan Inosanto also spent some time working with Denzel to get him ready for the rigorous fight sequences. Hmmm... I wonder if Guro Dan mentioned Kettlebells to him! :)



NOTE: Went and saw the movie on the "big screen" with some of the folks from MAK. While we enjoyed the tightly choreographed fight scenes (kudos to Jeff Imada and Guro Dan) we all concluded that it will be an enjoyable DVD.

Guro Dan Inosanto Interview - Part II

More great information on the evolution of JKD, the Wooden Dummy and the utility behind the JKD trapping to kickboxing training. Good information for those who are interested in the evolutionary development of JKD.

Guro Dan Inosanto Interview - Part I

This is a great video of Guro Dan Inosanto explaining the origins of JKD and it's link to Ip Man. Excellent footage of Guro Dan demonstrating the basic trapping and bridging structure within JKD. Watch this video... you will see this material again!