Some self-defense strategies that we teach are very unorthodox.
When you have to defend yourself or a loved one you have to use any means possible to protect yourself. One of those strategies is to use Deception or to create a diversion to momentarily distract your attacker. To put yourself in a position of weakness so the attacker moves in with his guard down.
"How do you that?", you must be wondering, let me explain.
Now this next strategy I'm about to cover isn't used in a competition or when someone is "swinging" at you. It's used when you're at a disadvantage for example: your opponent is armed (as in a robbery), he's bigger, or in a superior position, and if he's made first contact (Push or Grab).
If he touches your chest, you suddenly fake a heart attack (use this one if you look older), if it's a shoulder contact, fake a shoulder dislocation.
You might fake an asthma attack or start "praying" uncontrollably if he's holding a knife at your throat. What this does is momentarily confuses your opponent and lets you:
Get closer, buys you time, helps you attack when he least expects it.
Remember this is ONE strategy you hold in your arsenal. If you prefer the "Hit First- Finish First" strategy then by all means do that.
I'm skipping some valuable details that we cover in our Closing DVD but it gives you an idea of what you can do when the odds are against you.
Back to my original reason for talking about this.
3 gang members recently used this type of strategy on a pharmacy clerk and ended up beating him up with a hammer right next to our school in St-Leonard.
How did they manage to do it?
2 of them entered the store asking for help with their stalled vehicle. They used exactly what I've been talking about. They used a diversion, they put themselves in a position of weakness, that way the clerk would have his guard down and not expect an attack.
As soon as he was close to the car that's when the 3rd guy started hitting him. It was all part of a gang initiation.
Criminals know what works, just make sure you use these strategies for the powers of good, to protect yourself or your loved ones. Use them to survive, not to commit some random act of violence.
Make sure you possess all the tools necessary to confuse and knock your opponent out cold.
Check out Striking and Closing for more un-orthodox ways to deal with an attacker.
Protect yourself,
Sibok Martin
Empowering students with the skills and knowledge to increase confidence, fitness, and personal safety.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Squeeze weakness out of your muscles
This brings me to the 3rd benefit of our strength training program: Endurance (Mental and Physical)
You should never be complacent in this area. You can always do more and take more, always demand more out of yourself.
Your body is capable of wonderful things such as adaptability. The more stress or work you put your body through the more it will adapt and produce the desired results.
In Station Training this is at the center core of what we do.
Once you've completed your first 4 week initiation where you have 30-second breaks between each 1 minute exercise, you move on to: no rests between your stations.
You are put to the test for 10 to 20 minutes non-stop, giving your maximum intensity at each exercise, while always going to your own pace. It builds very strong individuals. The kind that will not give up.
When you're strength training this way, it doesn't take long to realize there's more to station training than push-ups and sit-ups.
It can be summed up in one Word: Toughness.
You must dig deep within yourself and find strength. Expanding your threshold for pain.
At first you either break or survive and move to the next exercise where the same thing starts over again. This is done with every muscle in your body. Any weaknesses in your muscles are quickly being squeezed out of them like you would water from a towel.
This is where you have to pay attention to what you feel. When you no longer feel like "breaking" you must either:
a) increase number of stations
b) increase number of reps
c) step up to an intermediate or advanced level
d) or increase station time.
I've seen people plateau because they failed to recognize their breaking points.
Let us put you to the test. Try our strength training system for 30 days and let us know how stronger and tougher you've become.
You can get it here.
Master yourself,
Sibok Martin
You should never be complacent in this area. You can always do more and take more, always demand more out of yourself.
Your body is capable of wonderful things such as adaptability. The more stress or work you put your body through the more it will adapt and produce the desired results.
In Station Training this is at the center core of what we do.
Once you've completed your first 4 week initiation where you have 30-second breaks between each 1 minute exercise, you move on to: no rests between your stations.
You are put to the test for 10 to 20 minutes non-stop, giving your maximum intensity at each exercise, while always going to your own pace. It builds very strong individuals. The kind that will not give up.
When you're strength training this way, it doesn't take long to realize there's more to station training than push-ups and sit-ups.
It can be summed up in one Word: Toughness.
You must dig deep within yourself and find strength. Expanding your threshold for pain.
At first you either break or survive and move to the next exercise where the same thing starts over again. This is done with every muscle in your body. Any weaknesses in your muscles are quickly being squeezed out of them like you would water from a towel.
This is where you have to pay attention to what you feel. When you no longer feel like "breaking" you must either:
a) increase number of stations
b) increase number of reps
c) step up to an intermediate or advanced level
d) or increase station time.
I've seen people plateau because they failed to recognize their breaking points.
Let us put you to the test. Try our strength training system for 30 days and let us know how stronger and tougher you've become.
You can get it here.
Master yourself,
Sibok Martin
Monday, December 17, 2007
Is Strength Training only about Power?
In any athletic field, this one thing is sought after by everyone: POWER
When people think of power they tend to think how big someone's arms are, or how much weight you can lift.
Although there's nothing wrong with both of the above, in Fang Shen Do we tend to define it a bit differently.
Like Bruce Lee once said: Are you strong or powerful?
What is the difference you might ask, they're both the same right? Not so.
Ask yourself how "functional" your strength is?
Being powerful is being functional.
It's your ability to transfer your power into a strike and actually land your attack. Or perform a throwing move with pin point accuracy when you feel your opponent is off balance.
I like watching strong man competitions to see which of the athletes are able to combine, massive power with "finesse" and skill. A perfect example of being powerful.
Most of the exercises in Station Training are done using your own body weight. Often you're training multiple attributes like power, speed, & balance. You really feel like you're mastering something important: Yourself!
You're always faced with 2 types of resistance: gravitational (as in a squat or push-up) or self-resistance.
I love self-resistance.
A basic example would be to clench your fist and slowly punch out straight ahead, make it last as long as possible, resist as if someone was trying to stop you from punching out or imagine pushing against a spring or rubber until you reach full extension.
Also add Intensity, "hiss" out (with tongue behind teeth or grunt as you're pressing out) to fire up your adrenal glands. Stretch the movement as long as you can and try synchronizing your breath so that your exhale ends with the full extension.
You should feel a rush just from doing this one movement. Some of our drills involving this type of resistance work can last in excess of 5 to 10 minutes.
You can find them all right here.
I can't even start explaining the feeling once you complete that routine.
No wonder you can increase power levels in as little as 30 days.
There's one more benefit I need to cover, but it will have to wait until tomorrow, gotta go train now,
Master Yourself,
Sibok Martin
When people think of power they tend to think how big someone's arms are, or how much weight you can lift.
Although there's nothing wrong with both of the above, in Fang Shen Do we tend to define it a bit differently.
Like Bruce Lee once said: Are you strong or powerful?
What is the difference you might ask, they're both the same right? Not so.
Ask yourself how "functional" your strength is?
Being powerful is being functional.
It's your ability to transfer your power into a strike and actually land your attack. Or perform a throwing move with pin point accuracy when you feel your opponent is off balance.
I like watching strong man competitions to see which of the athletes are able to combine, massive power with "finesse" and skill. A perfect example of being powerful.
Most of the exercises in Station Training are done using your own body weight. Often you're training multiple attributes like power, speed, & balance. You really feel like you're mastering something important: Yourself!
 |
| The Basic Station Training System |
You're always faced with 2 types of resistance: gravitational (as in a squat or push-up) or self-resistance.
I love self-resistance.
A basic example would be to clench your fist and slowly punch out straight ahead, make it last as long as possible, resist as if someone was trying to stop you from punching out or imagine pushing against a spring or rubber until you reach full extension.
Also add Intensity, "hiss" out (with tongue behind teeth or grunt as you're pressing out) to fire up your adrenal glands. Stretch the movement as long as you can and try synchronizing your breath so that your exhale ends with the full extension.
You can find them all right here.
I can't even start explaining the feeling once you complete that routine.
No wonder you can increase power levels in as little as 30 days.
There's one more benefit I need to cover, but it will have to wait until tomorrow, gotta go train now,
Master Yourself,
Sibok Martin
Sunday, December 16, 2007
3 Secrets To Maximizing Strength Training - Part 1
We're actually "snowed in" today. 40 cm of snow!. It's one of those days 
where you stay inside and do nothing right? Not.
One more reason to get busy training.
Now strength training doesn't have to be long and boring. If it's done right, you could be done in 5 minutes and still feel energized, challenged, and working up a sweat.
I'd like to tell you more about our strength training methodology.
There are many benefits to strength training the way we do and the first one is:
Emotional Intensity.
An ingredient we could all use more of. It doesn't just relate to physical activity, in Fang Shen Do it's considered as the level of JING (life) you're able to bring into any activity you commit to.
It might be conditioning, sports, social events, relationships, martial arts, any endeavor really that you're passionate about.
As you might realize there are a lot of dead people walking among us. Not physically but emotionally. As the old saying goes some people die at the tender age of 95 and some die at 25 but stink all the way to 95.
They die emotionally.
By that I mean: they've got a poor attitude, they always seem to be "bored", they live in fear, they are undisciplined, or they're chronic "complainers".
So what do you bring to the table when you're part of something?
Are you a magnet or a repellent?
Do people love to be around you or can't stand you.
I always want people to be happy they've taken the time to either come out and train with me or commit to being part of an event that we're hosting.
Time is non-renewable, invest it wisely.
In any field be it: Soccer (Zidane), a Rock Band (Isis), Poets (Shakespeare), Martial Artists (Bruce Lee), any professional, the top person in every field has a very high level of Intensity.
They have passion for what they're doing.
They each have a different vehicle for expressing emotional intensity but I'm sure if we interviewed each one of them (when some were still alive) and asked them to describe what they feel when doing what they do, they would all answer the same thing: a Heightened level of awareness & focus, time seems to stop, out of body experience, deeply rooted, fully engaged.
You need to transfer that into your strength training. When you train every minute counts.
Like I was mentioning earlier, you can take 5 exercises (5 minutes) and make that the toughest workout you've ever done.
It doesn't take a whole lot of time. It all depends on your mindset.
When you're in the moment, nothing else should matter, indulge yourself fully in the exercise, as if you were doing it for the last time.
So go ahead pick 5 exercises. Do as many reps as you can in 1 minute without stopping and having total intensity, then switch to another exercise until you've done all 5.
Just try it and let me know how you feel after.
For our complete strength training system go here.
Master yourself,
Sifu Martin
where you stay inside and do nothing right? Not.One more reason to get busy training.
Now strength training doesn't have to be long and boring. If it's done right, you could be done in 5 minutes and still feel energized, challenged, and working up a sweat.
I'd like to tell you more about our strength training methodology.
There are many benefits to strength training the way we do and the first one is:
Emotional Intensity.
An ingredient we could all use more of. It doesn't just relate to physical activity, in Fang Shen Do it's considered as the level of JING (life) you're able to bring into any activity you commit to.
It might be conditioning, sports, social events, relationships, martial arts, any endeavor really that you're passionate about.
As you might realize there are a lot of dead people walking among us. Not physically but emotionally. As the old saying goes some people die at the tender age of 95 and some die at 25 but stink all the way to 95.
They die emotionally.
By that I mean: they've got a poor attitude, they always seem to be "bored", they live in fear, they are undisciplined, or they're chronic "complainers".
So what do you bring to the table when you're part of something?
Are you a magnet or a repellent?
Do people love to be around you or can't stand you.
I always want people to be happy they've taken the time to either come out and train with me or commit to being part of an event that we're hosting.
Time is non-renewable, invest it wisely.
In any field be it: Soccer (Zidane), a Rock Band (Isis), Poets (Shakespeare), Martial Artists (Bruce Lee), any professional, the top person in every field has a very high level of Intensity.
They have passion for what they're doing.
They each have a different vehicle for expressing emotional intensity but I'm sure if we interviewed each one of them (when some were still alive) and asked them to describe what they feel when doing what they do, they would all answer the same thing: a Heightened level of awareness & focus, time seems to stop, out of body experience, deeply rooted, fully engaged.
You need to transfer that into your strength training. When you train every minute counts.
Like I was mentioning earlier, you can take 5 exercises (5 minutes) and make that the toughest workout you've ever done.
It doesn't take a whole lot of time. It all depends on your mindset.
When you're in the moment, nothing else should matter, indulge yourself fully in the exercise, as if you were doing it for the last time.
So go ahead pick 5 exercises. Do as many reps as you can in 1 minute without stopping and having total intensity, then switch to another exercise until you've done all 5.
Just try it and let me know how you feel after.
For our complete strength training system go here.
Master yourself,
Sifu Martin
Sunday, December 9, 2007
How strong is your Mind and Body connection?
First of all, most people have a total "Mind-Body" disconnection.
All body functions and messages (like breathing, your heart beat, digestion, etc...) are relayed through the nervous system. Make damn sure it's functioning properly. And why not op
timize it while you're at it. Enter Martial Art Training.
Let's do an experiment. Are you willing to play along with me? If yes, great!
Stand up, move your feet as wide as possible, keep your back straight, bend your knees and make absolutely sure to keep your feet pointing straight ahead, double check.
Did you look down at your feet?
Why?
I was teaching class as I do on a weekly basis, as I'm leading the warm-ups we get into holding a basic leg position, like the one you just did, to strengthen them, I say: "Make sure to keep your toes pointing straight ahead" , half the class looks down at their feet to make sure their toes are pointing straight ahead?".
Do you really need to look at your feet? You don't feel if your feet are pointing straight ahead or not?
I just get funny stuff like that happen sometimes. This is why I especially enjoy blindfolded drills, it forces you to feel everything you do and make corrections according to what you FEEL not what you SEE.
It boils down to Body Awareness. In a world where most people want to disconnect from their mind & body (Ex: Alcohol, drugs, etc...) we try to encourage students to make a stronger connection with both and strive to become more aware of them.
Things like being aware of your Breath.
Or focusing on specific body parts like your little toe on your right foot. Go ahead, do the drill, as you're sitting at your desk reading this, bring all of your attention to your little toe.
Can you really feel it?
Now inhale deeply, and feel the oxygen reach your toe. Now try any other body part. Your left ear, your right hand, your belly button or your left heel. This is the first step to Body Awareness. Our founder would also include this as a progressive relaxation exercise.
Do you think this level of awareness could help an injury? It sure could.
Could it also make you appreciate things more? I hope this makes sense to you.
By being more aware you can learn to enjoy the good things you possess in your life (like your health, the food you eat, or a relationship).
And it can also motivate you to make changes in your lifestyle that you're not happy with (where you live, missing a workout, or your work environment)
This is only one of the 10 secrets covered in the FSD Training Guide. Secure your copy today.
Master yourself,
Sibok Martin
All body functions and messages (like breathing, your heart beat, digestion, etc...) are relayed through the nervous system. Make damn sure it's functioning properly. And why not op
timize it while you're at it. Enter Martial Art Training.Let's do an experiment. Are you willing to play along with me? If yes, great!
Stand up, move your feet as wide as possible, keep your back straight, bend your knees and make absolutely sure to keep your feet pointing straight ahead, double check.
Did you look down at your feet?
Why?
I was teaching class as I do on a weekly basis, as I'm leading the warm-ups we get into holding a basic leg position, like the one you just did, to strengthen them, I say: "Make sure to keep your toes pointing straight ahead" , half the class looks down at their feet to make sure their toes are pointing straight ahead?".
Do you really need to look at your feet? You don't feel if your feet are pointing straight ahead or not?
I just get funny stuff like that happen sometimes. This is why I especially enjoy blindfolded drills, it forces you to feel everything you do and make corrections according to what you FEEL not what you SEE.
It boils down to Body Awareness. In a world where most people want to disconnect from their mind & body (Ex: Alcohol, drugs, etc...) we try to encourage students to make a stronger connection with both and strive to become more aware of them.
Things like being aware of your Breath.
Or focusing on specific body parts like your little toe on your right foot. Go ahead, do the drill, as you're sitting at your desk reading this, bring all of your attention to your little toe.
Can you really feel it?
Now inhale deeply, and feel the oxygen reach your toe. Now try any other body part. Your left ear, your right hand, your belly button or your left heel. This is the first step to Body Awareness. Our founder would also include this as a progressive relaxation exercise.
Do you think this level of awareness could help an injury? It sure could.
Could it also make you appreciate things more? I hope this makes sense to you.
By being more aware you can learn to enjoy the good things you possess in your life (like your health, the food you eat, or a relationship).
And it can also motivate you to make changes in your lifestyle that you're not happy with (where you live, missing a workout, or your work environment)
This is only one of the 10 secrets covered in the FSD Training Guide. Secure your copy today.
Master yourself,
Sibok Martin
Friday, November 30, 2007
Feel Your Way To Weapon Training Success
We just completed our last seminar of the year, it was held at our Ottawa Kung Fu School.
Whenever students work with weapons a funny thing happens.
Something "clicks".
Maybe it was a certain footwork or technique they were struggling with and suddenly through weapons training it finally makes sense.
Why is that?
A few reasons.
When you're working with weapons you have to rely on feeling.
Things like keeping momentum, leverage, and following through.
By paying attention to the weapon you have no choice but to pay attention to other areas of your body.
Also you'll find that if something feels not "right", there's no choice but to improve how you move your feet or transfer your weight. It can also mean you're not twisting the body correctly or your mental focus is off.
When you're working with a weapon like the Nunchaku, you have to find balance between your left and right hand, you have to become ambidextrous.
Now imagine how much better you can complete combinations, locks, chokes, and move other weapons with greater ease.
Weapons training brings about a better sense of Body Awareness and sharpens your mind.
This can be transfered in other things you do like brushing your teeth with your left hand, as well as eating.
You can also play other sports on your weaker side like hockey or tennis or even playing pool.
Doing all of the above is good for your brain, it forces it to make new connections and makes it that more efficient.
What are you waiting for, master a weapon.
It will definitely cut down your learning curve and gives you something to practice when you don't have a training partner.
Check out our weapon training products here.
Master yourself,
Sibok Martin
Whenever students work with weapons a funny thing happens.
Something "clicks".
Maybe it was a certain footwork or technique they were struggling with and suddenly through weapons training it finally makes sense.
Why is that?
A few reasons.
When you're working with weapons you have to rely on feeling.
Things like keeping momentum, leverage, and following through.
By paying attention to the weapon you have no choice but to pay attention to other areas of your body.
Also you'll find that if something feels not "right", there's no choice but to improve how you move your feet or transfer your weight. It can also mean you're not twisting the body correctly or your mental focus is off.
 |
| Nunchaku Training can greatly improve you coordination. |
When you're working with a weapon like the Nunchaku, you have to find balance between your left and right hand, you have to become ambidextrous.
Now imagine how much better you can complete combinations, locks, chokes, and move other weapons with greater ease.
Weapons training brings about a better sense of Body Awareness and sharpens your mind.
This can be transfered in other things you do like brushing your teeth with your left hand, as well as eating.
You can also play other sports on your weaker side like hockey or tennis or even playing pool.
Doing all of the above is good for your brain, it forces it to make new connections and makes it that more efficient.
What are you waiting for, master a weapon.
It will definitely cut down your learning curve and gives you something to practice when you don't have a training partner.
Check out our weapon training products here.
Master yourself,
Sibok Martin
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Is Your Body Begging For A Tune-Up?
Your body, like a car needs servicing.
You can't expect to own a car and never bring it in for an oil & filter change, tire rotation, or a brake inspection.
So why do some people never take time to service their body once in a while, it would love you for it.
Your body would thank you with better circulation, maximize organ function, less joint pain, more speed, more power, less injuries, character development, agility as well as more energy.
Think of what your mind and body have to endure every single day to make sure you function properly. And it never asks anything in return.
We only realize how lucky we are to have this amazing body when we're sick or in pain. Then we seek help from doctors and specialists to help us with our problem.
Take even better care of yourself when you are feeling great. One way to say thank you to your body is by Stretching.
Stretching is like doing your own "systems check for viruses", kinda like the one you do on a computer.
What are you checking?
Pain and Stiffness.
There are a set of things every human being should be able to do. We're all made the same so that means we should be able to perform and hold many of the same positions.
For example touching your toes. If you can't touch your toes you either have too much abdominal mass (polite way of saying excess flab) or tight lower back muscles.
With each test you get to know yourself and some of your weaknesses. That way you can devise a plan to improve in those affected areas.
Going at it alone can be a little tricky, let us guide you with our Flexibility DVD. It takes all the thinking out of the equation.
Learn the common stretches and holds that everyone should be able to perform as well as the tactics and strategies we use to break through barriers and bring your flexibility level to new heights.
Go ahead, STRETCH and click on the link above!
Sibok Martin
You can't expect to own a car and never bring it in for an oil & filter change, tire rotation, or a brake inspection.
So why do some people never take time to service their body once in a while, it would love you for it.
Your body would thank you with better circulation, maximize organ function, less joint pain, more speed, more power, less injuries, character development, agility as well as more energy.
Think of what your mind and body have to endure every single day to make sure you function properly. And it never asks anything in return.
We only realize how lucky we are to have this amazing body when we're sick or in pain. Then we seek help from doctors and specialists to help us with our problem.
Take even better care of yourself when you are feeling great. One way to say thank you to your body is by Stretching.
Stretching is like doing your own "systems check for viruses", kinda like the one you do on a computer.
What are you checking?
Pain and Stiffness.
There are a set of things every human being should be able to do. We're all made the same so that means we should be able to perform and hold many of the same positions.
For example touching your toes. If you can't touch your toes you either have too much abdominal mass (polite way of saying excess flab) or tight lower back muscles.
With each test you get to know yourself and some of your weaknesses. That way you can devise a plan to improve in those affected areas.
Going at it alone can be a little tricky, let us guide you with our Flexibility DVD. It takes all the thinking out of the equation.
Learn the common stretches and holds that everyone should be able to perform as well as the tactics and strategies we use to break through barriers and bring your flexibility level to new heights.
Go ahead, STRETCH and click on the link above!
Sibok Martin
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Women's Self-Defense
What better way to build your confidence than to train with a group of like minded women in a safe comfortable environment?
This is what these women are doing.
In our women's self-defense classes held in all of our schools, we let women release some of their frustrations on Bags, Focus Mitts (leather gloves you can strike) or on a few guys wearing body armor.
There are so many demands put on women these days: Being a great mom, a boss, an effective worker, and a lover while still finding time for yourself to stay fit and look good in a pair of jeans.
Most women find these classes rejuvenating, liberating, and empowering. Self-Defense has a lot to do with confidence and the energy you project out.
What do you project? Strength or Weakness?
Some women come to us to learn to protect themselves. Some need more guidance and follow through on some of the fitness goals they've established, something they can't seem to find at the local gym. And some need to work on Confidence.
Whatever your goals we can help.
Take time for yourself.
Learn a practical skill, grow stronger and never let yourself be intimidated.
Learn how by joining one of our classes today. Click this link to get started.
Sibok Martin
This is what these women are doing.
In our women's self-defense classes held in all of our schools, we let women release some of their frustrations on Bags, Focus Mitts (leather gloves you can strike) or on a few guys wearing body armor.
There are so many demands put on women these days: Being a great mom, a boss, an effective worker, and a lover while still finding time for yourself to stay fit and look good in a pair of jeans.
Most women find these classes rejuvenating, liberating, and empowering. Self-Defense has a lot to do with confidence and the energy you project out.
What do you project? Strength or Weakness?
 |
| Project confidence and strength, don't be a victim. |
Some women come to us to learn to protect themselves. Some need more guidance and follow through on some of the fitness goals they've established, something they can't seem to find at the local gym. And some need to work on Confidence.
Whatever your goals we can help.
Take time for yourself.
Learn a practical skill, grow stronger and never let yourself be intimidated.
Learn how by joining one of our classes today. Click this link to get started.
Sibok Martin
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Is there a Bully in your Child's Life?
Imagine your child coming home with bruises, scared, crying and tells you someone is bullying him at school?
He's afraid to go back.
This must be a parent's worse nightmare.
For many, many parents this is a reality. More than 30% of kids between 6th grade and 10th grade report having bullied or been bullied.
What do some Schools do?
They suspend anyone who takes part in any type of physical contact (i.e fighting, pushing, etc), even if it's done in self-defense.
I don't know every School's standpoint and how they deal with this issue but kids should not be punished for protecting themselves. Especially after having talked to the teacher, principal, and warned the actual bully to stop harassing them.
What is the child supposed to do?
Let him or herself get picked on?
Let themselves be intimidated and bullied for the rest of their school life?
The line has to be drawn at some point.
I've had many long discussions with parent's about this issue, many feel helpless and abandoned by the teachers who don't seem to do anything about it.
You need to arm your child with a secret weapon: Self-Esteem
How do you acquire more of that you might ask?
1) Tell them you love them every single day.
2) Let them know you'll always listen if they have something to tell you.
3) Give them small responsibilities and expand on them when they stay committed to them.
4) Let them Master something. Get them enrolled in something physical. Something that will bring them better control over their bodies, as well as an emotional outlet.
5) Next time you plan something as a family, let them decide what you're gonna do.
These will get you started on the right track.
Next time I'll let you know about a recent radio interview we had on CBC Radio on effective Anti-Bullying Tactics.
Until then,
Keep your kids safe and empowered,
Sibok Martin
He's afraid to go back.
This must be a parent's worse nightmare.
For many, many parents this is a reality. More than 30% of kids between 6th grade and 10th grade report having bullied or been bullied.
What do some Schools do?
They suspend anyone who takes part in any type of physical contact (i.e fighting, pushing, etc), even if it's done in self-defense.
I don't know every School's standpoint and how they deal with this issue but kids should not be punished for protecting themselves. Especially after having talked to the teacher, principal, and warned the actual bully to stop harassing them.
What is the child supposed to do?
Let him or herself get picked on?
Let themselves be intimidated and bullied for the rest of their school life?
The line has to be drawn at some point.
I've had many long discussions with parent's about this issue, many feel helpless and abandoned by the teachers who don't seem to do anything about it.
You need to arm your child with a secret weapon: Self-Esteem
How do you acquire more of that you might ask?
1) Tell them you love them every single day.
2) Let them know you'll always listen if they have something to tell you.
3) Give them small responsibilities and expand on them when they stay committed to them.
4) Let them Master something. Get them enrolled in something physical. Something that will bring them better control over their bodies, as well as an emotional outlet.
5) Next time you plan something as a family, let them decide what you're gonna do.
These will get you started on the right track.
Next time I'll let you know about a recent radio interview we had on CBC Radio on effective Anti-Bullying Tactics.
Until then,
Keep your kids safe and empowered,
Sibok Martin
Friday, November 9, 2007
Kids Summer Camps
If you're like most parents you want your kids to have fun and learn important life skills at a Summer Camp.
But which one, there's so many of them?
Have them try something unique, a Martial Art Summer Camp but not just any Martial Art camp, a "Patenaude Kung-Fu Camp open to all 6 to 13 year olds".
What's the difference you might ask?
Let me explain.
On the last day of our camp, we always ask kids: "If you had to compare our Kung-Fu Camp with others you've done elsewhere in the past, how different was it?"
The response is over-whelming. The kids get really involved and aren't afraid to give their opinion:
"I never done anything like this before"
"All we did was sit, paint and draw all day"
"We weren't allowed to run, I guess they were right, we had no space, they called it a camp but we stayed inside most of the time"
"Nothing we did ever challenged me"
And when we hear comments like these coming from 6 year olds and 11 year olds we really get inspired and motivated to keep on offering our camp every single year.
The problem.
Most people don't know about us. They don't know that a facility like ours exist right here in Canada. Casselman, Ontario to be exact.
Check out the specs:
16 acres of land and forest.
A training facility that can accomodate 100 kids no problem.
A Super-Secure Aerial Park.
(Certified by the biggest aerial park installors responsable for most parks in Tremblant, St-Sauveur, Caverne Lafleche, we're actually good friends with the builder) with close to 60 stations suspended right in the air in the middle of the forest.
Testing their balance, fear of heights, motor skills and Confidence.
A park we're expanding every single year.
A Confidence Course (Military Style) composed of Climbing Walls, Balance Logs, Monkey Bars, the works.
A vast knowledge of Martial Arts with over 200 different drills they go through to increase Focus, Confidence, Flexibility, Strength, Anti-Bully Tactics, and Self Protection.
A 35 x 35 Pool.
A Fullly Functional Cafeteria.
Personal Development Workshops specialized in helping kids develop their Self-Esteem, Attitude, Respect, Discipline and Leadership Skills.
We've been to camps ourselves and boy do we wish we had gone to a camp like this one when we were young.
A good summer camp experience or a bad one for that matter, lasts a life time.
So please before making a decision on where to go next year, I strongly urge you to compare our camp with others you might be considering.
We hope you will discover us in the near future and really give your kids an unforgettable summer camp experience.
Next camp dates are June 26 & 27, 2008.
Click here to register your child. Include name and phone number where you can be reached.
See you at camp.
Sifu Martin
But which one, there's so many of them?
Have them try something unique, a Martial Art Summer Camp but not just any Martial Art camp, a "Patenaude Kung-Fu Camp open to all 6 to 13 year olds".
What's the difference you might ask?
Let me explain.
On the last day of our camp, we always ask kids: "If you had to compare our Kung-Fu Camp with others you've done elsewhere in the past, how different was it?"
The response is over-whelming. The kids get really involved and aren't afraid to give their opinion:
"I never done anything like this before"
"All we did was sit, paint and draw all day"
"We weren't allowed to run, I guess they were right, we had no space, they called it a camp but we stayed inside most of the time"
"Nothing we did ever challenged me"
And when we hear comments like these coming from 6 year olds and 11 year olds we really get inspired and motivated to keep on offering our camp every single year.
The problem.
Most people don't know about us. They don't know that a facility like ours exist right here in Canada. Casselman, Ontario to be exact.
Check out the specs:
16 acres of land and forest.
A training facility that can accomodate 100 kids no problem.
A Super-Secure Aerial Park.(Certified by the biggest aerial park installors responsable for most parks in Tremblant, St-Sauveur, Caverne Lafleche, we're actually good friends with the builder) with close to 60 stations suspended right in the air in the middle of the forest.
Testing their balance, fear of heights, motor skills and Confidence.
A park we're expanding every single year.
A Confidence Course (Military Style) composed of Climbing Walls, Balance Logs, Monkey Bars, the works.
A vast knowledge of Martial Arts with over 200 different drills they go through to increase Focus, Confidence, Flexibility, Strength, Anti-Bully Tactics, and Self Protection.
A 35 x 35 Pool.
A Fullly Functional Cafeteria.
Personal Development Workshops specialized in helping kids develop their Self-Esteem, Attitude, Respect, Discipline and Leadership Skills.
We've been to camps ourselves and boy do we wish we had gone to a camp like this one when we were young.
A good summer camp experience or a bad one for that matter, lasts a life time.
So please before making a decision on where to go next year, I strongly urge you to compare our camp with others you might be considering.
We hope you will discover us in the near future and really give your kids an unforgettable summer camp experience.
Next camp dates are June 26 & 27, 2008.
Click here to register your child. Include name and phone number where you can be reached.
See you at camp.
Sifu Martin
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
What is the meaning behind the Dragon?
People often ask me what our emblem, the Dragon, symbolizes. What does it mean exactly?
For that we have to go way back to 1991. The year the dragon was born.
We had a lot of ideas. I even had lots of drawings of how to represent our image, to establish our identity.
We showed those to Doug Bernhardt. For those of you who don't know him, he's only one of the best sign makers in Ottawa. Specializing in Stained Glass in Gold Leaf, Embossed letters, the works.
He's made signs for big corporations and most of the old irish and english pubs in Ottawa. My father is actually very good friends with him for about 30 years. They both had their beginnings in the same building, 335 Catherine Street, where we had our headquarters for the longest time before moving just up the street at 270 Catherine.
We showed Doug our ideas and he says: "Those are great, the kid's got talent (me) but you've got to meet this guy, he's a master at developing Brands and a Top Notch Graphic Designer, his name is Don Wong.
To make a long story short, Don reveals 2 symbols that completely blow us away. He was able to nail it down perfectly. It's very hard to explain that day.
We finally had our own unique mark.
You must be wondering what the other symbol is and why we're not using it. The design was so complex to reproduce we had to put a hold on it.
In order to have it printed perfectly it had to be shipped out to western Canada. The process would be too labor intensive and very expensive. So we put a hold on it. Maybe one day we'll release it to the public. For the time being it stays in the vault.
To this day printers still have a hard time getting the dragon exactly "Bang On" as Don would say.
Filled with intricate details that most people don't really pay attention to.
Don said the Dragon would bring lots of success and would establish us as a premier force in the Martial Arts, how right was he.
The following is our interpretation of his work.
The circle represents infinity or never-ending. In life you will always be learning and evolving.
The red is a powerful color in oriental methodology. It brings luck and prosperity. It also represents sacrifice. In order to develop yourself fully you must make better choices and sacrifice some habits that dis-empower you.
The 6 teeth inside the dragon's mouth represents the 6 ranges of development in Fang Shen Do. (Psychological, Weapons, Punching, Kicking, Trapping, Grappling)
The dragon itself represents the art of combat.
Life is a combat.
You must fight to stay fit, stay focused, achieve your goals and dreams, find your place, to protect yourself and your family, to make a difference.
It also has both soft and hard lines, it follows the concept of Yin Yang. We need both to find balance.
Now you know where the dragon comes from, now it's time you found out where it's going.
Click here for a location near you.
Master Yourself,
Sibok Martin
For that we have to go way back to 1991. The year the dragon was born.
We had a lot of ideas. I even had lots of drawings of how to represent our image, to establish our identity.
We showed those to Doug Bernhardt. For those of you who don't know him, he's only one of the best sign makers in Ottawa. Specializing in Stained Glass in Gold Leaf, Embossed letters, the works.
He's made signs for big corporations and most of the old irish and english pubs in Ottawa. My father is actually very good friends with him for about 30 years. They both had their beginnings in the same building, 335 Catherine Street, where we had our headquarters for the longest time before moving just up the street at 270 Catherine.
We showed Doug our ideas and he says: "Those are great, the kid's got talent (me) but you've got to meet this guy, he's a master at developing Brands and a Top Notch Graphic Designer, his name is Don Wong.
To make a long story short, Don reveals 2 symbols that completely blow us away. He was able to nail it down perfectly. It's very hard to explain that day.
We finally had our own unique mark.
You must be wondering what the other symbol is and why we're not using it. The design was so complex to reproduce we had to put a hold on it.
In order to have it printed perfectly it had to be shipped out to western Canada. The process would be too labor intensive and very expensive. So we put a hold on it. Maybe one day we'll release it to the public. For the time being it stays in the vault.
To this day printers still have a hard time getting the dragon exactly "Bang On" as Don would say.
Filled with intricate details that most people don't really pay attention to.
Don said the Dragon would bring lots of success and would establish us as a premier force in the Martial Arts, how right was he.
The following is our interpretation of his work.
 |
| Fang Shen Do Logo: The Dragon |
The red is a powerful color in oriental methodology. It brings luck and prosperity. It also represents sacrifice. In order to develop yourself fully you must make better choices and sacrifice some habits that dis-empower you.
The 6 teeth inside the dragon's mouth represents the 6 ranges of development in Fang Shen Do. (Psychological, Weapons, Punching, Kicking, Trapping, Grappling)
The dragon itself represents the art of combat.
Life is a combat.
You must fight to stay fit, stay focused, achieve your goals and dreams, find your place, to protect yourself and your family, to make a difference.
It also has both soft and hard lines, it follows the concept of Yin Yang. We need both to find balance.
Now you know where the dragon comes from, now it's time you found out where it's going.
Click here for a location near you.
Master Yourself,
Sibok Martin
Sunday, November 4, 2007
If You Need to Attack, You Must Know How to Close
Without "Closing" ability you're like a Formula One Race Car capable of extreme speeds but you don't have any tires to ride on.
No matter which martial art you practice, once you've learned techniques, you have to land them in order for them to do their intended job.
If you can't reach your opponent, everything you've learned is pretty much useless. That's where Closing comes in.
These techniques are designed to help you build greater confidence and allow you to fully engage the opponent. It's almost as if closing gets your foot in the door. Once it's in, you have a greater chance of entering.
As long as there's a "Gap" between the two of you, you're both wasting time.
You'll learn ways to use your full body weight behind your offense and hide your physical intention to attack.
One thing that is crucial is the emotional ignition, you have to turn yourself on and never second guess yourself.
Closing has to be one of the most important elements of any martial art system, it's unfortunate that so many never get to experience it. Don't miss out, master this skill today.
Sibok Martin
No matter which martial art you practice, once you've learned techniques, you have to land them in order for them to do their intended job.
If you can't reach your opponent, everything you've learned is pretty much useless. That's where Closing comes in.
These techniques are designed to help you build greater confidence and allow you to fully engage the opponent. It's almost as if closing gets your foot in the door. Once it's in, you have a greater chance of entering.
As long as there's a "Gap" between the two of you, you're both wasting time.
You'll learn ways to use your full body weight behind your offense and hide your physical intention to attack.
One thing that is crucial is the emotional ignition, you have to turn yourself on and never second guess yourself.
Closing has to be one of the most important elements of any martial art system, it's unfortunate that so many never get to experience it. Don't miss out, master this skill today.
Sibok Martin
Knock-Outs
Without question this is one thing on everyone's mind: "Will I be able to knock out my opponent when the time is right?"
How do you develop devastating striking power? By arming yourself with the right knowledge and training drills to call upon this skill at will.
Our Striking Series reveals an old recipe for developing power.
5 secret ingredients that will turn weak, wimpy punches into bone crushing, sledge hammer-like blows every time, guaranteed.
One of the secrets, "Penetration" shows you how to mentally project all your power through the target.
When striking a focus mitt or body shield, imagine a second imaginary person standing a few feet behind your target point.
Imagine that what you're about to hit isn't there and the only thing you'll be hitting is that imaginary partner who's also holding your striking surface. Move with full commitment.
It won't take long to realize this simple "tweak" in your application will lead to doubling your power on the first try.
Once you discover the 5 secrets, you will hold the recipe to some serious High Impact Striking.
Results Guaranteed,
Sibok Martin
This question goes for the athlete competing or the family man who wants to protect his family.
How do you develop devastating striking power? By arming yourself with the right knowledge and training drills to call upon this skill at will.
Our Striking Series reveals an old recipe for developing power.
5 secret ingredients that will turn weak, wimpy punches into bone crushing, sledge hammer-like blows every time, guaranteed.
One of the secrets, "Penetration" shows you how to mentally project all your power through the target.
Never focus on the target surface but rather visualize going 10 feet beyond your impact point. This will guarantee follow through and maximum damage.
Put the concept to the test.
When striking a focus mitt or body shield, imagine a second imaginary person standing a few feet behind your target point.
Imagine that what you're about to hit isn't there and the only thing you'll be hitting is that imaginary partner who's also holding your striking surface. Move with full commitment.
It won't take long to realize this simple "tweak" in your application will lead to doubling your power on the first try.
Once you discover the 5 secrets, you will hold the recipe to some serious High Impact Striking.
Results Guaranteed,
Sibok Martin
Friday, November 2, 2007
Patenaude Kung-Fu opens new 3000 square foot facility in Orleans. Curriculum includes Kung-Fu, Kickboxing and Ju-Jitsu.
One of our original franchises has just moved to a new location in Orleans.
A modern, state of the art facility where a mix of different arts
come together to offer a unique training experience.
Patenaude Kung-Fu and Therien Ju-Jitsu & Kickboxing have created a unique atmosphere where students can sample the very best in Martial Arts.
Once you enter the school you'll notice how clean & professional everything looks. It is our goal to set a high standard when it comes to equipment and safety as well as presentation.
No one wants to train in a dirty, un-organized, garage-like, community center Dojo.
Don't settle for anything less than the best.
Here's a shot of the owner, my brother, Sifu Stephane Patenaude along with our dad, Sijo Jacques Patenaude for the Grand-Opening ceremony.
Try one class and you'll see the wealth of knowledge these 2 schools have accumulated over the past 30 years. You'll also understand why they are both highly respected in martial art circles around the world.
Both schools share some of the same mentality and principles and although both Master Patenaude and Master Therien have long been friends, they both agree, it's an association that was long over due.
Today's modern student wants to experience many different facets of the Martial Arts and what's better than to learn everything at the same place.
Our team is in place, from left to right,Renshi Aline and Elie, Sifu Stephane, Kyoshi John Therien, Sijo Jacques Patenaude, Sifu Patrick, Jean-Yves Theriault (not in picture).
You've always wanted to try Martial Arts?
Here's the place to start.
Sifu Martin
A modern, state of the art facility where a mix of different arts
come together to offer a unique training experience.Patenaude Kung-Fu and Therien Ju-Jitsu & Kickboxing have created a unique atmosphere where students can sample the very best in Martial Arts.
Once you enter the school you'll notice how clean & professional everything looks. It is our goal to set a high standard when it comes to equipment and safety as well as presentation.
No one wants to train in a dirty, un-organized, garage-like, community center Dojo.
Don't settle for anything less than the best.
Here's a shot of the owner, my brother, Sifu Stephane Patenaude along with our dad, Sijo Jacques Patenaude for the Grand-Opening ceremony.
Try one class and you'll see the wealth of knowledge these 2 schools have accumulated over the past 30 years. You'll also understand why they are both highly respected in martial art circles around the world.
Both schools share some of the same mentality and principles and although both Master Patenaude and Master Therien have long been friends, they both agree, it's an association that was long over due.
Today's modern student wants to experience many different facets of the Martial Arts and what's better than to learn everything at the same place.
Our team is in place, from left to right,Renshi Aline and Elie, Sifu Stephane, Kyoshi John Therien, Sijo Jacques Patenaude, Sifu Patrick, Jean-Yves Theriault (not in picture).
You've always wanted to try Martial Arts?
Here's the place to start.
Sifu Martin
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Kung-Fu Book sells well over 2000 copies!
Who would of thought that this little book would get this much attention?
lays the ground work for any serious martial artist who wants to gain an edge through physical development and creating strong mind/body connections as well as increase flexibility safely and quickly.
Learn from Sijo Jacques Patenaude as you find out unique life principles that led to opening one of the largest chains of kung-fu schools in Canada.
Literally starting with nothing, a gym bag, his girlfriend and a dream. Find out what started it all and who would be responsible for laying down the building blocks, the core principles that would shape his character and lead him to establish the Fang Shen Do System.
We refer to our system as the "FSD Project". It is alive, always growing, always learning, always evolving.
A guarantee, that you receive the most cutting edge principles and training techniques on the planet in the fastest time possible.
These 10 secrets will help pave the way for accelerated learning and give you the tools you need to succeed in all areas of your life.
Order your copy today,
Sibok Martin
Some people prefer to see a technique or drill being applied, some need to be told, and some need to have it done on them to understand. Others need to read it and only then will it sink in.
lays the ground work for any serious martial artist who wants to gain an edge through physical development and creating strong mind/body connections as well as increase flexibility safely and quickly. Learn from Sijo Jacques Patenaude as you find out unique life principles that led to opening one of the largest chains of kung-fu schools in Canada.
Literally starting with nothing, a gym bag, his girlfriend and a dream. Find out what started it all and who would be responsible for laying down the building blocks, the core principles that would shape his character and lead him to establish the Fang Shen Do System.
We refer to our system as the "FSD Project". It is alive, always growing, always learning, always evolving.
So what does it mean for you?
A guarantee, that you receive the most cutting edge principles and training techniques on the planet in the fastest time possible.
These 10 secrets will help pave the way for accelerated learning and give you the tools you need to succeed in all areas of your life.
Order your copy today,
Sibok Martin
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Benefits of Training in the Dark?
We cater to Kids and Adults.
Kids want flashy fun stuff (Adults want that too) and Adults need to learn a skill and increase their confidence (Kids want that too).
Solution: Glow in the Dark Nunchaku Seminar.
The event was held at our Kanata Kung-Fu School.
If you're a parent, you know that sometimes to get your kids to do something it has to be exciting and unique, enough to get their interest and attention going. If something isn't, their attention span will "Fizzle" away.
Enter the "Glow in the Dark Nunchaku Seminar".
You couldn't get these kids out of our outside training barricade even if you tried dragging them.
Everyone of them was focused and eager to learn the different twirls and chambers taught in this seminar.
Now add the Glow chuks and you got some serious flash going on, making each and every move look that much faster, crisper and razor sharp.
Also, for adults or myself for that matter, I enjoy training in the dark.
It's a habit I've been undertaking for quite some time now.
Practice Sword, Bo Staff, Sticks and Conditioning exercises (Such as Squats, Balance & Footwork Drills) in the dark will lead to enhanced sensitivity and awareness. Instead of "seeing" mistakes in your form you'll actually "feel" them which in turn will make you absorb the technique on a deeper level.
Try it and let me know how it feels. Always use common sense when attempting to do this.
The look on a child's face just when they've learned a new move and actually gets it, priceless. Their self-esteem bumps up 150%. That's what kids need, a place where they can learn in a positive disciplined environment and actually do cool stuff they can tell their friends about.
Being a father of three myself, it's not always easy to find activities for them. You kinda find yourself always doing the same things. Which can be at times, boring.
That's why our Martial Arts program is so popular. It's different. You break the monotony when you come to class. You never know what you're gonna do or learn.
It's also something you can do with the whole family.
I think Martial Arts should be voted the #1 Sport in the world. The whole family can participate, the competition is with yourself, you learn personal protection, you stay in top physical shape, and learn life skills that will stay with you and your family for life.
It doesn't get much better than that.
By the way double click on the picture to the right to open it to full size and look at the kid's faces after the seminar and tell me if you think they had fun.
Until next time,
Sibok Martin
Kids want flashy fun stuff (Adults want that too) and Adults need to learn a skill and increase their confidence (Kids want that too).
Solution: Glow in the Dark Nunchaku Seminar.
The event was held at our Kanata Kung-Fu School.
If you're a parent, you know that sometimes to get your kids to do something it has to be exciting and unique, enough to get their interest and attention going. If something isn't, their attention span will "Fizzle" away.
Enter the "Glow in the Dark Nunchaku Seminar".
You couldn't get these kids out of our outside training barricade even if you tried dragging them.
Everyone of them was focused and eager to learn the different twirls and chambers taught in this seminar.
Now add the Glow chuks and you got some serious flash going on, making each and every move look that much faster, crisper and razor sharp.
Also, for adults or myself for that matter, I enjoy training in the dark.
It's a habit I've been undertaking for quite some time now.
Practice Sword, Bo Staff, Sticks and Conditioning exercises (Such as Squats, Balance & Footwork Drills) in the dark will lead to enhanced sensitivity and awareness. Instead of "seeing" mistakes in your form you'll actually "feel" them which in turn will make you absorb the technique on a deeper level.
Try it and let me know how it feels. Always use common sense when attempting to do this.
The look on a child's face just when they've learned a new move and actually gets it, priceless. Their self-esteem bumps up 150%. That's what kids need, a place where they can learn in a positive disciplined environment and actually do cool stuff they can tell their friends about.
Being a father of three myself, it's not always easy to find activities for them. You kinda find yourself always doing the same things. Which can be at times, boring.
That's why our Martial Arts program is so popular. It's different. You break the monotony when you come to class. You never know what you're gonna do or learn.
It's also something you can do with the whole family.
I think Martial Arts should be voted the #1 Sport in the world. The whole family can participate, the competition is with yourself, you learn personal protection, you stay in top physical shape, and learn life skills that will stay with you and your family for life.
It doesn't get much better than that.
By the way double click on the picture to the right to open it to full size and look at the kid's faces after the seminar and tell me if you think they had fun.
Until next time,
Sibok Martin
Do You Value Your Ability to Move?
The ability to move is something we all take for granted.
You and I should express gratitude every single day just to be able to do basic chores like: walking, sitting, running, and eating.
What if you suddenly lost the ability to move now? As you're reading this you can no longer move or function.
Any regrets?
Any shouldas and wouldas?
What does it take to get you to move, to exercise and master yourself through martial arts or any other physical endeavor?
Lazyness, Too busy, Too hard, Too many distractions?
Bull.
We cannot predict the future so I strongly suggest you decide now to start moving and appreciating your freedom. You know why?
Not everyone has the luxury of independent motion.
2-3 CANADIANS DIE EVERYDAY FROM A.L.S.
This reality really hit home with Sifu Brian Paquette. The owner of our Downtown Montreal Kung-Fu School. His brother succumbed to the disease at age 38, shortly after being diagnosed with the disease
What Is ALS?
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), often referred to as "Lou Gehrig's disease," is a progressive neuro-degenerative disease that attacks nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. Motor neurons reach from the brain to the spinal cord and from the spinal cord to the muscles throughout the body.
Sifu Brian has decided to set up the Father Phoenix foundation in hopes to raise awareness and funds in support of the cause. One of the ways we raise funds is through:
The MOVE-A-THON.
It's a celebration of movement. It entails twelve hours of non-stop action and exercise from participants including any combination of push-ups, running on the spot, jumping jacks, sit-ups, shadow boxing, kicking, punching bags or targets, skipping rope, weapons demonstrations, circuit training etc..
Two participants will be in movement at all times during this twelve hour period. Participants will be replaced on a rotational basis depending on number of participants and time donated.
(E.g.: 10 minute intervals) Participants gather pleadges based on time participated or a flat rate based on estimated participation.
IMPORTANT NOTES:No one person will be required to exercise for the entire twelve hour period. Any amount of time donated as exercise is very appreciated whether it is for two minutes, or two hours.
Food and beverage will be supplied to participants. COME AND SHOW YOUR SUPPORT!!
You can help with a donation, through participation or by supporting the participants in this worthy cause. A few dollars, a few push-ups or a few words of encouragement will drive this endeavor forward.
Don't wait until you're over-weight to start eating right, don't wait until you have lung cancer to stop smoking.
Take action and realize the gift of movement and lead an active lifestyle now.
Don't know where to start? Click here to find a school near you.
Move,
Sifu Martin
You and I should express gratitude every single day just to be able to do basic chores like: walking, sitting, running, and eating.
What if you suddenly lost the ability to move now? As you're reading this you can no longer move or function.
Any regrets?
Any shouldas and wouldas?
What does it take to get you to move, to exercise and master yourself through martial arts or any other physical endeavor?
Lazyness, Too busy, Too hard, Too many distractions?
Bull.
We cannot predict the future so I strongly suggest you decide now to start moving and appreciating your freedom. You know why?
Not everyone has the luxury of independent motion.
2-3 CANADIANS DIE EVERYDAY FROM A.L.S.
This reality really hit home with Sifu Brian Paquette. The owner of our Downtown Montreal Kung-Fu School. His brother succumbed to the disease at age 38, shortly after being diagnosed with the disease
What Is ALS?
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), often referred to as "Lou Gehrig's disease," is a progressive neuro-degenerative disease that attacks nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. Motor neurons reach from the brain to the spinal cord and from the spinal cord to the muscles throughout the body.
Sifu Brian has decided to set up the Father Phoenix foundation in hopes to raise awareness and funds in support of the cause. One of the ways we raise funds is through:
The MOVE-A-THON.
It's a celebration of movement. It entails twelve hours of non-stop action and exercise from participants including any combination of push-ups, running on the spot, jumping jacks, sit-ups, shadow boxing, kicking, punching bags or targets, skipping rope, weapons demonstrations, circuit training etc..
Two participants will be in movement at all times during this twelve hour period. Participants will be replaced on a rotational basis depending on number of participants and time donated.(E.g.: 10 minute intervals) Participants gather pleadges based on time participated or a flat rate based on estimated participation.
IMPORTANT NOTES:No one person will be required to exercise for the entire twelve hour period. Any amount of time donated as exercise is very appreciated whether it is for two minutes, or two hours.
Food and beverage will be supplied to participants. COME AND SHOW YOUR SUPPORT!!
You can help with a donation, through participation or by supporting the participants in this worthy cause. A few dollars, a few push-ups or a few words of encouragement will drive this endeavor forward.
Don't wait until you're over-weight to start eating right, don't wait until you have lung cancer to stop smoking.
Take action and realize the gift of movement and lead an active lifestyle now.
Don't know where to start? Click here to find a school near you.
Move,
Sifu Martin
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Patenaude Kung-Fu gives hope to Autistic kids
Does your child have ADD, ADHD, Aspergers, or suffer from a mild case of Autism? Are you feeling a bit discouraged and in need of some help?
If so read on, the following story will inspire and offer some hope to struggling families.
At our Laval Kung-Fu School you have Sifu Alain Garofalo who's up to any challenge and will go out of his way to help any child in need of guidance, training, discipline, or social skills.
He's been working with 4 kids recently, some for 1 month and some up to 1 year and their progress has been remarkable, so impressive it caught Jean Lajoie's attention, a reporter for one of Quebec's biggest television station, TQS.
He really wanted to know what all the hype was about.
They stayed and filmed the classes and drills we do for about an hour and a half.
The parents of the kids were present and pretty emotional when they were put on camera.
They just can't believe the positive change in their kids behaviour and attitude.
One child is deaf and the other 3 are autistic. Most of the parents share the same story:
"My child had no friends because he was different"
"He's very shy and unsure of himself"
"He gets teased alot"
"Most kids judge him before getting to know him"
"Some daycares don't know how to handle my child".
Just heart wrenching stories that no child should have to go through in his life. Our goal is to make sure every child has the respect, confidence and constructive social interaction that every 9 or 12 year old should have. Most of our students are either referred by a friend or they searched us up on the web or through yellow pages.
What they thought was going to be a place where they can burn some energy and get fit, which is true but it turned out there was way more to Patenaude Kung-Fu than Punches and Kicks.
It's amazing what a positive environment can do, where they can progress at their own pace while still feeling like they're part of a group, a team if you will.
The training brings out the very best in them and without a doubt affects their school work, family life, social skills and grades simultaneously.
Some of the reasons for this quick development are total concentration and modeling. The kids need to be totally focused during class and when something is fun and challenging it's not hard to get that kind of attention.
You need positive role models and especially our kids nowadays, the Sifu is there to guide the kids and help them achieve their goals.
The biggest issue you'll find today is kids need more Self-Esteem. You start with easy steps, things they can accomplish easily, and this takes on a snow ball affect that leads to unshakeable confidence in their physical abilities, speaking in public, and trying new things.
The report airs on October 29th, 5:20 pm on the TQS Station, tune in to see the kids live in action and hear the parents giving their views on their child's development.
Take Care,
Sibok Martin
If so read on, the following story will inspire and offer some hope to struggling families.
At our Laval Kung-Fu School you have Sifu Alain Garofalo who's up to any challenge and will go out of his way to help any child in need of guidance, training, discipline, or social skills.
He's been working with 4 kids recently, some for 1 month and some up to 1 year and their progress has been remarkable, so impressive it caught Jean Lajoie's attention, a reporter for one of Quebec's biggest television station, TQS.
He really wanted to know what all the hype was about.
They stayed and filmed the classes and drills we do for about an hour and a half.
The parents of the kids were present and pretty emotional when they were put on camera.
They just can't believe the positive change in their kids behaviour and attitude.
One child is deaf and the other 3 are autistic. Most of the parents share the same story:
"My child had no friends because he was different"
"He's very shy and unsure of himself"
"He gets teased alot"
"Most kids judge him before getting to know him"
"Some daycares don't know how to handle my child".
Just heart wrenching stories that no child should have to go through in his life. Our goal is to make sure every child has the respect, confidence and constructive social interaction that every 9 or 12 year old should have. Most of our students are either referred by a friend or they searched us up on the web or through yellow pages.
What they thought was going to be a place where they can burn some energy and get fit, which is true but it turned out there was way more to Patenaude Kung-Fu than Punches and Kicks.
It's amazing what a positive environment can do, where they can progress at their own pace while still feeling like they're part of a group, a team if you will.
The training brings out the very best in them and without a doubt affects their school work, family life, social skills and grades simultaneously.
Some of the reasons for this quick development are total concentration and modeling. The kids need to be totally focused during class and when something is fun and challenging it's not hard to get that kind of attention.
You need positive role models and especially our kids nowadays, the Sifu is there to guide the kids and help them achieve their goals.
The biggest issue you'll find today is kids need more Self-Esteem. You start with easy steps, things they can accomplish easily, and this takes on a snow ball affect that leads to unshakeable confidence in their physical abilities, speaking in public, and trying new things.
The report airs on October 29th, 5:20 pm on the TQS Station, tune in to see the kids live in action and hear the parents giving their views on their child's development.
Take Care,
Sibok Martin
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Tough Equipment
This shot was taken at our Ottawa Kung-Fu School.
Using the right equipment is critical to your development and safety.
Take this piece of equipment for example. The Body Shield.
A custom shield that you won't find everywhere.
One piece, covering the partner from head to toe and it's curved all around the body for roundline attacks.
It gives you the most versatility. Punching & Kicking in a straight line and round line, Tackling, Clinching the top for knees and elbows.
And unlike a punching bag, the partner has the ability to rush forward, pull away, and move around you quickly. This keeps you alert and on your toes.
Our equipment goes under alot of abuse. So it needs to be tough. That's why most of our shields and bags are made out of a secret material. A material developped for the military, it's virtually un-penetrable, fireproof and will not rip.
What does it mean for you the striker?
Well, for one, it means full power strikes with no fear of hurting your partner. Holding back is detrimental to your development.
And for the holder it means alot.
It guarantees the shield will do it's job: absorb and dissipate the power while protecting the holder from any possible injury.
We use only top of the line equipment to make sure your training experience is dynamic and fun while keeping the highest standard for safety.
See our product list and get your own today,
Sifu Martin
Our equipment goes under alot of abuse. So it needs to be tough. That's why most of our shields and bags are made out of a secret material. A material developped for the military, it's virtually un-penetrable, fireproof and will not rip.
What does it mean for you the striker?
Well, for one, it means full power strikes with no fear of hurting your partner. Holding back is detrimental to your development.
And for the holder it means alot.
It guarantees the shield will do it's job: absorb and dissipate the power while protecting the holder from any possible injury.
We use only top of the line equipment to make sure your training experience is dynamic and fun while keeping the highest standard for safety.
See our product list and get your own today,
Sifu Martin
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Arms of Stone
Nothing strengthens the arms and hands like a wooden dummy. Results show very quickly. Your palms, wrists, back of hands, fingers, inner & outer forearms are all being re-inforced simultaneously.
Some of the other benefits are increased speed, flow, crispness, kicking techniques, close quarter power (improve you power punch), footwork, distance, power, and balance. I've been using the Mook Jong (Wooden Dummy) for about 22 years now.
I used to stand on a chair to practice. Looking back on my training, I have to attribute some of my foundational growth to this device. We teach classical sets as well as "free-style" ones. The first key principle: "it is a Means to an End". Meaning it's only a tool. Once you've learned the classical sets, acquired super arm conditioning, Jing (life, or snap), flow and speed, you move on to creative flow.
Another way to challenge your development is to blindfold yourself. "Seeing" and "Feeling" through sense of touch. There's always a way to challenge yourself and take it to another level.
We don't just like the classical dummy but also modern ones.
Some of our collection (over 50 different models) range from: spring loaded (which adds a more human feel), breakable arms and legs, moveable (on wheels), with timer, steel, adjustable (height), padded, etc...
Not only will wooden dummy training make you physically tougher but mentally as well.
Aim Higher,
Sibok Martin
Some of the other benefits are increased speed, flow, crispness, kicking techniques, close quarter power (improve you power punch), footwork, distance, power, and balance. I've been using the Mook Jong (Wooden Dummy) for about 22 years now.
I used to stand on a chair to practice. Looking back on my training, I have to attribute some of my foundational growth to this device. We teach classical sets as well as "free-style" ones. The first key principle: "it is a Means to an End". Meaning it's only a tool. Once you've learned the classical sets, acquired super arm conditioning, Jing (life, or snap), flow and speed, you move on to creative flow.
 |
| Circa 1981, my father, Sijo Jacques Patenaude on the wooden dummy, The mook jong in the picture is still in use today at my Montreal School. |
Another way to challenge your development is to blindfold yourself. "Seeing" and "Feeling" through sense of touch. There's always a way to challenge yourself and take it to another level.
We don't just like the classical dummy but also modern ones.
Some of our collection (over 50 different models) range from: spring loaded (which adds a more human feel), breakable arms and legs, moveable (on wheels), with timer, steel, adjustable (height), padded, etc...
Not only will wooden dummy training make you physically tougher but mentally as well.
Aim Higher,
Sibok Martin
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Welcome to the New Fang Shen Do Blog
Welcome to the New Fang Shen Do Blog! As you can tell, we are still working hard to update certain sections of our website. Please check back regularly for new content.
Thursday, August 9, 2007
The first time I firewalked
I was never supposed to go with my dad. His trip was already booked. Plane, Hotel, everything.
When he told me what he was planning on doing I heard this inner voice say: "ask him...ask him!" So I did: "Do you want company?" not knowing what he would answer, "Of course, he replied".
So there we were in California, my first trip just me and him at 26 years old.
It got me thinking: "How many people have never done that?", "Who's never spent some one on one time with their dad for a whole weekend?"
Unfortunately, some wait until it's too late to do so.
They go through life without ever saying "I love you" or "I appreciate what you've done for me" or just gave him a hug.
I've always been close with him but feel that that trip really solidified things for us. I felt lucky to share a special experience like that with him. Family is everything.
The first lesson is to follow your heart, when you have a gut feeling follow it, when you hear that inner voice guiding you, listen to it.
When you're about to firewalk, wait for the right moment, don't rush through it or you'll miss the moment. I had been listening to my dad talk about firewalking for quite some time and was quite intrigued by it.
I never expected to feel the way I felt after I had crossed the fire pit. It truly was, magical.
I was far from home, in the mountains of Sonoma, the stars were bright and shining down on us, there was a sense of total awareness and nothing could stop me.
Euphoric, Focused, Determined, Recharged are some of the best words to describe it. Everyone needs to walk at least once in their lifetime.
This got me thinking, what if I could re-call this experience whenever I wanted to?
How much more efficient could I be in my business.
How much of a better lover and father could I be?
How easy would it be to stay motivated and fit and what if we could show other people how to do the same thing?
That would be pretty awesome.
You too can have this experience.
Be there April 28th at 6:30 pm.
Experience it for yourself, Register for the Firewalk here.
Martin
When he told me what he was planning on doing I heard this inner voice say: "ask him...ask him!" So I did: "Do you want company?" not knowing what he would answer, "Of course, he replied".
So there we were in California, my first trip just me and him at 26 years old.
It got me thinking: "How many people have never done that?", "Who's never spent some one on one time with their dad for a whole weekend?"
Unfortunately, some wait until it's too late to do so.
They go through life without ever saying "I love you" or "I appreciate what you've done for me" or just gave him a hug.
I've always been close with him but feel that that trip really solidified things for us. I felt lucky to share a special experience like that with him. Family is everything.
The first lesson is to follow your heart, when you have a gut feeling follow it, when you hear that inner voice guiding you, listen to it.
When you're about to firewalk, wait for the right moment, don't rush through it or you'll miss the moment. I had been listening to my dad talk about firewalking for quite some time and was quite intrigued by it.
I never expected to feel the way I felt after I had crossed the fire pit. It truly was, magical.
I was far from home, in the mountains of Sonoma, the stars were bright and shining down on us, there was a sense of total awareness and nothing could stop me.
Euphoric, Focused, Determined, Recharged are some of the best words to describe it. Everyone needs to walk at least once in their lifetime.
This got me thinking, what if I could re-call this experience whenever I wanted to?
How much more efficient could I be in my business.
How much of a better lover and father could I be?
How easy would it be to stay motivated and fit and what if we could show other people how to do the same thing?
That would be pretty awesome.
You too can have this experience.
Be there April 28th at 6:30 pm.
Experience it for yourself, Register for the Firewalk here.
Martin
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