For the past couple of days I've been talking about striking power and where most people fail to adequately develop the abdominals and legs for strength.
Once you have power, you have to know what to do with it and know how to use it.
This next step is fairly simple and easy to develop IF you have the right instruction.
When I have a chance to work one on one with a student, simple tweaks to this particular aspect of striking power translates into immediate results, literally doubling their power on the spot.
There's so much power residing inside you, you just need to unlock it.
Sometimes no extra energy is required to strike harder.
Often times less energy is wasted when this piece of the puzzle is finally understood.
You need to get clear and become effective with...
BODY MECHANICS.
We're pretty much all equipped the same way, why then is there such a difference in striking power from one person to another?
AWARENESS.
Specifically, Body Awareness.
Learning to use your body correctly requires what we call in FSD, a bit of kinesthetic training (learning by doing) and modeling (learning by watching).
If you model exactly and you repeat the guidelines we teach in our Striking Series there's no reason why you can't move and generate the same kind of striking power.
It's definitely the best alternative to going at it alone, it will save you time and frustration, as well as give you major confidence knowing the kind of power you can generate if you ever needed to protect yourself.
Start modeling now.
Master Yourself,
Sibok M
P.S. Once Body Mechanics is in place you need to get to work on this next element which I'll cover shortly. Stay Tuned.
Empowering students with the skills and knowledge to increase confidence, fitness, and personal safety.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
The OTHER source of Striking Power
Yesterday I talked about your source of striking power and how 2 body parts are mainly responsible for it.
One of them being your abdominals since they act as the major link to rotating your body's largest mass, your upper torso.
Improvements in this area alone will quickly double your striking power.
And, shaving some fat off your belly will also give you greater range of motion to squeeze out the maximum amount of power when delivering your punches and kicks.
By now you must be asking yourself: "What is the other part of the equation?"
Here it is.
The second body part responsible for striking power are your ...
LEGS.
Your legs need to be strong enough to push off the ground and transfer energy to your abdominals which can then be redirected through your arms or legs for impact.
Now you have the FSD method for quickly assessing your striking power.
Automatically we know after having you perform certain abdominal and leg exercises where you stand in terms of power.
If weakness is discovered, a quick adjustment and regular Intermediate Strength Training is recommended. Your legs need to be trained as a team and independently of one another which is exactly what you'll be doing in this more advanced training kit.
Once strength is restored to these 2 body parts the next step is ... wait a minute ... one bite at a time!
Get to work on your abs and leg strength first.
Failure to train and strengthen these 2 body parts will lead to disappointing results in the area of striking power.
Like I mentioned yesterday, the main focus of our Intermediate Strength Training Kit is on developing these 2 body parts and many others to get you striking harder no matter your size.
If you're not satisfied with how hard you hit I suggest you get started on the Intermediate Level pronto. Here's the link.
Master Yourself,
Sibok M
P.S. Do the proper training with our Intermediate Strength Training Kit and tune in shortly for the next step in developing striking power. Get started now.
One of them being your abdominals since they act as the major link to rotating your body's largest mass, your upper torso.
Improvements in this area alone will quickly double your striking power.
And, shaving some fat off your belly will also give you greater range of motion to squeeze out the maximum amount of power when delivering your punches and kicks.
By now you must be asking yourself: "What is the other part of the equation?"
Here it is.
The second body part responsible for striking power are your ...
LEGS.
Your legs need to be strong enough to push off the ground and transfer energy to your abdominals which can then be redirected through your arms or legs for impact.
Now you have the FSD method for quickly assessing your striking power.
Automatically we know after having you perform certain abdominal and leg exercises where you stand in terms of power.
If weakness is discovered, a quick adjustment and regular Intermediate Strength Training is recommended. Your legs need to be trained as a team and independently of one another which is exactly what you'll be doing in this more advanced training kit.
Once strength is restored to these 2 body parts the next step is ... wait a minute ... one bite at a time!
Get to work on your abs and leg strength first.
Failure to train and strengthen these 2 body parts will lead to disappointing results in the area of striking power.
Like I mentioned yesterday, the main focus of our Intermediate Strength Training Kit is on developing these 2 body parts and many others to get you striking harder no matter your size.
If you're not satisfied with how hard you hit I suggest you get started on the Intermediate Level pronto. Here's the link.
Master Yourself,
Sibok M
P.S. Do the proper training with our Intermediate Strength Training Kit and tune in shortly for the next step in developing striking power. Get started now.
Monday, May 25, 2009
The Myth of 6 Pack Abs
It's hard to deny that most of us want a flat, ripped abdomen.
And with good reason.
Apart from all the health issues that surround carrying excess stomach fat, strengthening your core from a martial artist standpoint is essential to your overall development.
When you think of it, your bodies largest mass (your upper torso) relies solely on your abdominals to twist and rotate itself to generate striking power in punches and kicks.
No matter how strong you are from the shoulders, arms and chest, it still doesn't change the fact your level of striking power will be in direct proportion with the strength of your abdominals.
Anyone who's ever suffered a broken rib or an operation in the abdomen area will vouch for the frustation you encounter when you can't use your abdominals, you really feel helpless.
Can you imagine how a beginner feels when they first hit a punching bag? Do you remember yours? Do you STILL feel this way?
Now you know.
Look in the abdominal area if you're struggling with generating power.
50% of your power comes from the abdomen. What about the other 50%?
That's a good question but I'll have to keep that for tomorrow.
Right now, do everything you can to strengthen your core.
Make sure to go for the real deal though.
Several years ago, a high profile CEO here in Ottawa had his six pack abs surgically implanted and sculpted.
Is that the answer? Huh... NO!
Aesthetics are a great by-product of working your abs but for obvious reasons, like the above CEO, you gotta earn them. If no effort was made and no system is put in place to maintain them it's only a matter of time before the dreaded "One Ab Look" comes back.
Quite honestly, train the way you're supposed to and your body will automatically transform itself, no operation required.
As a martial artist your abs are there to protect you against blows to the body. They must be strong enough to contract explosively to generate power and possess enough pulling power to perform lifts, throws and leverage your body in a superior position.
If on top of that you get the six pack look, Bonus! But not at the expense of the 3 qualities I just listed.
Knowing the importance of Ab strength in a student's conditioning, our main focus in our Intermediate Strength Training Kit highlights just that.
This Kit holds 85 of the best training exercises you should be doing to generate the most power in each and every strike you throw.
Scroll down to the bottom of the letter on this link to add it to your program.
Master Yourself,
Sibok M
And with good reason.
Apart from all the health issues that surround carrying excess stomach fat, strengthening your core from a martial artist standpoint is essential to your overall development.
When you think of it, your bodies largest mass (your upper torso) relies solely on your abdominals to twist and rotate itself to generate striking power in punches and kicks.
No matter how strong you are from the shoulders, arms and chest, it still doesn't change the fact your level of striking power will be in direct proportion with the strength of your abdominals.
Anyone who's ever suffered a broken rib or an operation in the abdomen area will vouch for the frustation you encounter when you can't use your abdominals, you really feel helpless.
Can you imagine how a beginner feels when they first hit a punching bag? Do you remember yours? Do you STILL feel this way?
Now you know.
Look in the abdominal area if you're struggling with generating power.
50% of your power comes from the abdomen. What about the other 50%?
That's a good question but I'll have to keep that for tomorrow.
Right now, do everything you can to strengthen your core.
Make sure to go for the real deal though.
Several years ago, a high profile CEO here in Ottawa had his six pack abs surgically implanted and sculpted.
Is that the answer? Huh... NO!
Aesthetics are a great by-product of working your abs but for obvious reasons, like the above CEO, you gotta earn them. If no effort was made and no system is put in place to maintain them it's only a matter of time before the dreaded "One Ab Look" comes back.
Quite honestly, train the way you're supposed to and your body will automatically transform itself, no operation required.
As a martial artist your abs are there to protect you against blows to the body. They must be strong enough to contract explosively to generate power and possess enough pulling power to perform lifts, throws and leverage your body in a superior position.
If on top of that you get the six pack look, Bonus! But not at the expense of the 3 qualities I just listed.
Knowing the importance of Ab strength in a student's conditioning, our main focus in our Intermediate Strength Training Kit highlights just that.
This Kit holds 85 of the best training exercises you should be doing to generate the most power in each and every strike you throw.
Scroll down to the bottom of the letter on this link to add it to your program.
Master Yourself,
Sibok M
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Highs and Lows
For almost the past 2 weeks I've been on a cloud.
Who wouldn't be?
I got to workout with Bob Wall, I got to see him interact with my family, I listened to him give seminars with my dad, some of you who attended got to own a piece of Bruce Lee memorabilia and got to hear stories about him straight from the horse's mouth.
I've rarely met such a kind man, ego-less although he owns much and has seen it all, he exemplifies the qualities of a real martial artist.
And this morning, we had to say goodbye.
We had good times and we sure didn't want them to end.
Makes me realize how we all have to deal with ups and downs in our life.
Sometimes disappointments.
Other times failure.
Followed by moments of happiness, accomplishment, and enthusiasm.
To quote Bob Wall: "Losing is learning"
You might of heard this kind of philosophy before.
Whenever you feel a down, or you experience a temporary failure, get excited, pick yourself up, dust yourself off and get ready for round 2.
Take it as a life lesson, learn from it and move on. Or in my case, I kept a detailed diary of the events and lessons I learned from Bob while I was around him, hundreds of pictures and video.
You should do the same.
Instead of dealing with downs when they occur why not prepare for them in advance with an
"Inspiration Booklet".
A book filled with empowering quotes, pictures, and images you've compiled which can be reviewed for a fast recharge when you need it.
It can come in pretty handy when you need it.
Try it.
Master Yourself,
Sibok M
P.S Another way not to lose your focus is what we call a Strategic Action Guide. It comes free when you get a copy of FSD's 10 Secrets to building a Rock Solid Martial Art Foundation.
Who wouldn't be?
I got to workout with Bob Wall, I got to see him interact with my family, I listened to him give seminars with my dad, some of you who attended got to own a piece of Bruce Lee memorabilia and got to hear stories about him straight from the horse's mouth.
I've rarely met such a kind man, ego-less although he owns much and has seen it all, he exemplifies the qualities of a real martial artist.
And this morning, we had to say goodbye.
We had good times and we sure didn't want them to end.
Makes me realize how we all have to deal with ups and downs in our life.
Sometimes disappointments.
Other times failure.
Followed by moments of happiness, accomplishment, and enthusiasm.
To quote Bob Wall: "Losing is learning"
You might of heard this kind of philosophy before.
Whenever you feel a down, or you experience a temporary failure, get excited, pick yourself up, dust yourself off and get ready for round 2.
Take it as a life lesson, learn from it and move on. Or in my case, I kept a detailed diary of the events and lessons I learned from Bob while I was around him, hundreds of pictures and video.
You should do the same.
Instead of dealing with downs when they occur why not prepare for them in advance with an
"Inspiration Booklet".
A book filled with empowering quotes, pictures, and images you've compiled which can be reviewed for a fast recharge when you need it.
It can come in pretty handy when you need it.
Try it.
Master Yourself,
Sibok M
P.S Another way not to lose your focus is what we call a Strategic Action Guide. It comes free when you get a copy of FSD's 10 Secrets to building a Rock Solid Martial Art Foundation.
Monday, May 18, 2009
You won't believe what happened this weekend
What a weekend!
150 of our closest friends gathered to celebrate my parent's 30th anniversary on Saturday. We got to see old pictures and video from the early days, celebrity congratulation videos from Gene LeBell, Don "The Dragon" Wilson, and Cecile Peoples to name a few.
Like most of them said, It's not easy to stay in business in this business and anyone who can stay open and successful for 3o years deserves the utmost respect and applaud.
Looking back at what my parents sacrificed, the trust they had in each other, the determination and guts it took to get started, the odds that were stacked up against them, I know it inspired everyone in the room to double their efforts whether in their martial art training, the goals they set, the love and care that goes into a relationship, to dare to dream big, to build something significant.
My father's first student was also with us and sharing his experience.
Presentations were made to the FSD owners for their effort and contribution to the system.
My younger brother, Sifu Silvain received his 5th degree rank (Master Instructor) which consists of a black sash with one white stripe and 3 red ones.
The white stripe represents LIFE and LEARNING. Specifically, "In Life I am always a learner", "Learning is a journey", "I am constantly trying to better myself".
The red stripes represent KNOWLEDGE. The color red symbolizes FIRE. Fire like knowledge grows exponentially as you make your way through martial arts and life.
What first started as a flicker then grows into a bushel of fire/knowledge. (3 stripes)
This weekend I was also given a very high honor.
Everyone knew except me.
To my surprise my father presented me with the title of SIBOK. Which means "Uncle".
The kind of "Protector" of the system placing me 2nd in command.
You can imagine my reaction. I was speechless and full of emotion.
Still people in the room captured how I felt about accepting this responsability and the commitment and dedication it took to get there.
With my family all around me and my extended Kung-fu family watching, I respectfully accepted my father's request.
I take my mission very seriously. "To inspire and lead by example".
I hope you feel my sincerity through my words and the tips I offer you in my e-mails and blog posts, I want you to succeed and I'm willing to do everything in my power to give you the guidance and tools to do just that.
You'll find all the tools I used to make my ascension to the level I'm at right here. Get started now.
Master Yourself,
Sibok M
P.S. Again, Thank You Sijo, my mother, my family, my students, I'll make you all proud.
150 of our closest friends gathered to celebrate my parent's 30th anniversary on Saturday. We got to see old pictures and video from the early days, celebrity congratulation videos from Gene LeBell, Don "The Dragon" Wilson, and Cecile Peoples to name a few.
Like most of them said, It's not easy to stay in business in this business and anyone who can stay open and successful for 3o years deserves the utmost respect and applaud.
Looking back at what my parents sacrificed, the trust they had in each other, the determination and guts it took to get started, the odds that were stacked up against them, I know it inspired everyone in the room to double their efforts whether in their martial art training, the goals they set, the love and care that goes into a relationship, to dare to dream big, to build something significant.
My father's first student was also with us and sharing his experience.
Presentations were made to the FSD owners for their effort and contribution to the system.
My younger brother, Sifu Silvain received his 5th degree rank (Master Instructor) which consists of a black sash with one white stripe and 3 red ones.
The white stripe represents LIFE and LEARNING. Specifically, "In Life I am always a learner", "Learning is a journey", "I am constantly trying to better myself".
The red stripes represent KNOWLEDGE. The color red symbolizes FIRE. Fire like knowledge grows exponentially as you make your way through martial arts and life.
What first started as a flicker then grows into a bushel of fire/knowledge. (3 stripes)
This weekend I was also given a very high honor.
Everyone knew except me.
To my surprise my father presented me with the title of SIBOK. Which means "Uncle".
The kind of "Protector" of the system placing me 2nd in command.
You can imagine my reaction. I was speechless and full of emotion.
Still people in the room captured how I felt about accepting this responsability and the commitment and dedication it took to get there.
With my family all around me and my extended Kung-fu family watching, I respectfully accepted my father's request.
I take my mission very seriously. "To inspire and lead by example".
I hope you feel my sincerity through my words and the tips I offer you in my e-mails and blog posts, I want you to succeed and I'm willing to do everything in my power to give you the guidance and tools to do just that.
You'll find all the tools I used to make my ascension to the level I'm at right here. Get started now.
Master Yourself,
Sibok M
P.S. Again, Thank You Sijo, my mother, my family, my students, I'll make you all proud.
Friday, May 15, 2009
It's Louse Time! Hung Up in the Way
Friday is always what I call: "Louse Time". Modeled after Bruce Lee's strategy in Enter the Dragon. You know that part where he's having tea with the government agent but he's disturbed by one of his students and Bruce Lee tells the agent: It's Louse Time!
The agent replies with his British accent: "yes of course". Since I'm 6 years old that scene has always stuck with me and I'll be using that same strategy with YOU every week.
Friday is where I share with you Life Lessons and Direction given to me by my dad (and Sifu) every Friday.
But this Friday is different.
Ever since I started "Louse Time" on Fridays I've been getting positive feedback from alot of you and who would of thought I'd be doing a Louse Time session with the co-star of Enter the Dragon, Bob Wall (aka Ohara) one day.
After completing my morning workout with my dad and O'hara, I mean Bob, here are some lessons you might be interested in hearing about.
Bruce always related his martial art training to life. Kinda like what we've been doing for the past 35 years. This is the ultimate goal of martial arts, to use it as a tool to improve yourself in all areas of your life.
The martial arts are filled with knuckle heads who are caught in styles and who's better than who. Many were around then and double that number today.
Bruce's whole philosophy was: "Don't get Hung Up in the Way".
Look at comments on You Tube related Martial arts topics and you'll find a boat load of people arguing that their style is better than others, especially when it comes to Jiu-Jitsu.
Not one of the top guys in Wrestling or Jiu-Jitsu engage in that kind of discussion. They're all ready and open to learn from anybody.
It seems to be a trend among us human beings to compare ourselves.
Who has the best religion.
My god is better than your god.
My house is bigger than your house.
My kids are smarter than your kids.
Bruce had many challenges when it came to his ethnicity, it wasn't easy to be chinese back in the 60's. The chinese also resented him for teaching caucasians kung-fu. Same thing for African Americans, that's why his first student was black, to prove to everyone he wasn't going to follow the norm.
Coming back to his philosophy: "Don't get Hung up in the Way"
There are many ways to interpret and learn a lesson from it as well as apply it to your own life.
In our Neigong Training we focus on un-blocking the meridians of the body but using Bruce Lee's philosophy it also means to un-block certain ways of thinking, to expand your view and seek out better ways of getting in shape, or making money, attracting better quality friends, designing the life of your dreams, and constantly looking at the results you're getting and liking what you get.
Listening to Bob share his views and experiences and hearing him rave about our FSD training, getting actual, factual feedback from a man who's seen them all, managed the best fighters in the world is priceless. I usually dismiss internet blabber from on-line, couch potatoe black belts hiding behind computer screens but when a man like Bob gives us a compliment, I listen.
I always wanted to meet Bruce Lee, now through Bob I feel like I have. Being endorsed by Bob Wall is the beginning of a great relationship and all FSD Students will benefit greatly from his wisdom and experience.
Do like Bruce Lee, refuse to follow, blaze your own trail, and act on what your heart tells you to do.
Master Yourself,
Sifu Martin
P.S. Speaking of blazing a trail, we'll be blazing one this Sunday, one that you'll have to walk accross to get to the other side with new found determination and focus. Join us by springing on over to this link.
The agent replies with his British accent: "yes of course". Since I'm 6 years old that scene has always stuck with me and I'll be using that same strategy with YOU every week.
Friday is where I share with you Life Lessons and Direction given to me by my dad (and Sifu) every Friday.
But this Friday is different.
Ever since I started "Louse Time" on Fridays I've been getting positive feedback from alot of you and who would of thought I'd be doing a Louse Time session with the co-star of Enter the Dragon, Bob Wall (aka Ohara) one day.
After completing my morning workout with my dad and O'hara, I mean Bob, here are some lessons you might be interested in hearing about.
Bruce always related his martial art training to life. Kinda like what we've been doing for the past 35 years. This is the ultimate goal of martial arts, to use it as a tool to improve yourself in all areas of your life.
The martial arts are filled with knuckle heads who are caught in styles and who's better than who. Many were around then and double that number today.
Bruce's whole philosophy was: "Don't get Hung Up in the Way".
Look at comments on You Tube related Martial arts topics and you'll find a boat load of people arguing that their style is better than others, especially when it comes to Jiu-Jitsu.
Not one of the top guys in Wrestling or Jiu-Jitsu engage in that kind of discussion. They're all ready and open to learn from anybody.
It seems to be a trend among us human beings to compare ourselves.
Who has the best religion.
My god is better than your god.
My house is bigger than your house.
My kids are smarter than your kids.
Bruce had many challenges when it came to his ethnicity, it wasn't easy to be chinese back in the 60's. The chinese also resented him for teaching caucasians kung-fu. Same thing for African Americans, that's why his first student was black, to prove to everyone he wasn't going to follow the norm.
Coming back to his philosophy: "Don't get Hung up in the Way"
There are many ways to interpret and learn a lesson from it as well as apply it to your own life.
In our Neigong Training we focus on un-blocking the meridians of the body but using Bruce Lee's philosophy it also means to un-block certain ways of thinking, to expand your view and seek out better ways of getting in shape, or making money, attracting better quality friends, designing the life of your dreams, and constantly looking at the results you're getting and liking what you get.
Listening to Bob share his views and experiences and hearing him rave about our FSD training, getting actual, factual feedback from a man who's seen them all, managed the best fighters in the world is priceless. I usually dismiss internet blabber from on-line, couch potatoe black belts hiding behind computer screens but when a man like Bob gives us a compliment, I listen.
I always wanted to meet Bruce Lee, now through Bob I feel like I have. Being endorsed by Bob Wall is the beginning of a great relationship and all FSD Students will benefit greatly from his wisdom and experience.
Do like Bruce Lee, refuse to follow, blaze your own trail, and act on what your heart tells you to do.
Master Yourself,
Sifu Martin
P.S. Speaking of blazing a trail, we'll be blazing one this Sunday, one that you'll have to walk accross to get to the other side with new found determination and focus. Join us by springing on over to this link.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Life itself is a combat
When you focus on where you want to hit with full commitment and follow through, you get the desired result, a knock out.
Goals are the same as punching, without focus, commitment and follow through nothing ever gets done.
Alot of people still haven't found out the secret weapon that is martial art training.
Armed with the right instructor and the right system, you'll quickly make parallels between fighting principles and day to day living.
You and I spend way more time dealing with our inner demons than having to defend ourselves for real or having to compete at a high level in a ring or cage.
Life itself is a combat.
When you understand that, that's where you realize how important it is to acquire tools to defend against the daily challenges of life such as:
Getting up in the morning and loving what you do for a living.
Not being controlled by food that robs you of your energy.
Fighting lazyness.
Blocking the crap that is fed to us through media.
Not being afraid to dream big without feeling guilty.
To stop seeking approval from everybody.
Staying centered and grounded when seeing chaos around you.
Not allowing anybody to put you in a box, speaking from experience, alot of people out there try to label us when it comes to what we do in the martial arts. To quote Bruce Lee: "I have no style, therefore I am all styles."
The old model of working all your life at the same place, then retiring, is long gone, it's just not fulfilling enough. People by the millions ask themselves at that point: "Is this all there is?"
Same thing with martial arts, the ones who are not constantly evolving will get left behind which is one reason why we're still here after 30 years.
One tool you'll find fascinating is Firewalking.
Everything gets put in perspective the moment you take your first step in the fire pit.
An experience like this strengthens you and opens up your imagination to what you can accomplish.
Join us this Sunday for an unforgettable experience.
You can read more about it here.
Master Yourself,
Sifu Martin
Goals are the same as punching, without focus, commitment and follow through nothing ever gets done.
Alot of people still haven't found out the secret weapon that is martial art training.
Armed with the right instructor and the right system, you'll quickly make parallels between fighting principles and day to day living.
You and I spend way more time dealing with our inner demons than having to defend ourselves for real or having to compete at a high level in a ring or cage.
Life itself is a combat.
When you understand that, that's where you realize how important it is to acquire tools to defend against the daily challenges of life such as:
Getting up in the morning and loving what you do for a living.
Not being controlled by food that robs you of your energy.
Fighting lazyness.
Blocking the crap that is fed to us through media.
Not being afraid to dream big without feeling guilty.
To stop seeking approval from everybody.
Staying centered and grounded when seeing chaos around you.
Not allowing anybody to put you in a box, speaking from experience, alot of people out there try to label us when it comes to what we do in the martial arts. To quote Bruce Lee: "I have no style, therefore I am all styles."
The old model of working all your life at the same place, then retiring, is long gone, it's just not fulfilling enough. People by the millions ask themselves at that point: "Is this all there is?"
Same thing with martial arts, the ones who are not constantly evolving will get left behind which is one reason why we're still here after 30 years.
One tool you'll find fascinating is Firewalking.
Everything gets put in perspective the moment you take your first step in the fire pit.
An experience like this strengthens you and opens up your imagination to what you can accomplish.
Join us this Sunday for an unforgettable experience.
You can read more about it here.
Master Yourself,
Sifu Martin
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Bob Wall leads the way
If you've been following me for a while now you've heard me talk about the benefits of martial arts training on many occasions.
One of the subjects I cover regularly is how martial arts can keep you young, vibrant, alert, strong and active right into old age.
I know it to be true.
But some people might think when reading my newsletter and think this of me: "How do you really know for sure, you're only in your 30s?"
That's when you go to someone who's living it. Enter: Bob Wall.
(Sijo and Bob Wall at a recent seminar in Montreal)
We've been spending some quality time with him this past week and I can say, I'm fascinated with him not only from a celebrity stand point, who he is and the people whe knows in the martial art community but his level of enthusiasm and willingness to learn new things at his age is an inspiration.
Monday morning we had him do one of our advanced workouts, they are challenging for a 2o year old let alone a 70 year old!
Those seeds are not found at your local gardening store they're found right here doing martial arts.
If you still haven't experienced FSD training, crops might be disappointing this year, if you are, you already realize how smart of a choice
you made.
To get started on your first class go here.
If you're part of our group and feel ready to step it up, get started on our Intermediate Strength Training Kit today.
Master Yourself,
Sifu Martin
One of the subjects I cover regularly is how martial arts can keep you young, vibrant, alert, strong and active right into old age.
I know it to be true.
But some people might think when reading my newsletter and think this of me: "How do you really know for sure, you're only in your 30s?"
That's when you go to someone who's living it. Enter: Bob Wall.
(Sijo and Bob Wall at a recent seminar in Montreal)
We've been spending some quality time with him this past week and I can say, I'm fascinated with him not only from a celebrity stand point, who he is and the people whe knows in the martial art community but his level of enthusiasm and willingness to learn new things at his age is an inspiration.
Monday morning we had him do one of our advanced workouts, they are challenging for a 2o year old let alone a 70 year old!
Still he persisted and impressed all of us. It's a shame that so many people in our society think they're over the hill when they pass 65.
Some are plagued with arthritis, others condemned to a walker, some slowly dying from that last cigarette puff, health problems due to mal nutrition and the list goes on.
How you feel and look at that age is what you reap from what you sowed during your life time.
Are you sowing health seeds right now? Are you sowing death seeds?
Start planting seeds now which will continue to give you an abundant, fruitful harvest well into your 70s.
Some are plagued with arthritis, others condemned to a walker, some slowly dying from that last cigarette puff, health problems due to mal nutrition and the list goes on.
How you feel and look at that age is what you reap from what you sowed during your life time.
Are you sowing health seeds right now? Are you sowing death seeds?
Start planting seeds now which will continue to give you an abundant, fruitful harvest well into your 70s.
Those seeds are not found at your local gardening store they're found right here doing martial arts.
If you still haven't experienced FSD training, crops might be disappointing this year, if you are, you already realize how smart of a choice
you made.
To get started on your first class go here.
If you're part of our group and feel ready to step it up, get started on our Intermediate Strength Training Kit today.
Master Yourself,
Sifu Martin
Friday, May 8, 2009
Bob Wall is coming to town
Bob Wall was one of the pioneers of martial arts back in the 60s. Along with his partner, Chuck Norris they owned 182 schools.Bob Wall authored the first "Who's Who in the Martial Arts" back in 1975. A sort of reference to martial art styles and instructors who've made an impact in the martial arts world.
You'll find names like: Bruce Lee, Fumio Demura, Dan Inosanto, Chuck Norris, Bill Wallace, Joe Lewis, Gene LeBell, Al Dacascos, Jackie Chan, Cung Le, Benny Urquidez, Jean-Claude Van Damme and our very own Sijo Jacques Patenaude on page 282.
Bob has met thousands of instructors, has studied with many masters, whenever he speaks or gives his opinion about something martial art or business related, I listen.
Every industry has a person that has "been there, done that", someone that has lots of experience and is able to offer the right advice along with valuable feedback.
It's the same as being complimented by Tiger Woods on your golf swing or Sidney Crosby praising your slapshot or Robert Deniro celebrating your performance on the screen.
You know that their feedback is real, unbiased and worth something.
That's what my father got when they happened to teach a seminar together in Germany last year.
After that many years studying martial arts, one can tell a person's skill just by looking at them move, speak, or demonstrate.
Bob was impressed with my father's accomplishments considering the lack of support from his first instructor proving once again that you are responsible for the kind of life you want to create for yourself.
Turning 70 this year, he speaks and moves like a 30 year old. He is living proof of what leading a martial art lifestyle can do for your health, strength and youthful demeanor.
I don't THINK martial arts can give you an edge in life, I KNOW it does.
The coming weeks are loaded with opportunities to get to meet Bob in person as he is touring our schools and offering seminars on the subjects of Bruce Lee, what he learned from him during their 10 years working together before his untimely death, his work with the Machados, Gene LeBell and Chuck Norris.
We're honored to have him in our schools as we know he is extremely busy with his Real Estate business, a self-made millionaire and very picky as to where he chooses to invest his time.
Invest your time wisely also these coming weeks, here's a list of the seminar schedule:
May 9 th Montreal 2:00 pm
May 13 th Kanata 7:00 pm
May 14 th Gatineau 7:00 pm
May 15 th Laval 7:00 pm
May 16 th Ottawa 11:30 am
May 18 th Toronto 7:00 pm
Register here:
FSD Members
Non-members
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Kids hold secret Adults have lost.
Spent all day yesterday teaching Kung-Fu to kids at a local school near my home town of Casselman with my little brother Silvain.
Working with kids has helped me tremendously in my 20+ years of teaching. Lots of important lessons learned that I use when teaching my adult students.
Usually I tell my assistants or apprentice instructors that if they can teach 4 to 10 year olds and hold on to their attention during a whole 60 minute class, they can teach ... anyone.
Kids are so special. At a young age they possess a secret most adults have either forgotten or lost.
What makes us forget this special trait?
What happens when we grow up that causes us to "turn" in the opposite direction.
We were all kids once, how could we forget?
Some might experience it still but it's often short lived and tends to drift away until the next big thing catches our attention.
Kids should be looking up to adults for guidance, it shouldn't be the other way around?
Or should it.
Okay, I dragged this out long enough. What is it about kids we can all learn from?
It is the key to staying young and vibrant. It's the key to living the life you were born to live.
I'm talking about good old fashioned ENTHUSIASM.
Working with kids has helped me tremendously in my 20+ years of teaching. Lots of important lessons learned that I use when teaching my adult students.
Usually I tell my assistants or apprentice instructors that if they can teach 4 to 10 year olds and hold on to their attention during a whole 60 minute class, they can teach ... anyone.
Kids are so special. At a young age they possess a secret most adults have either forgotten or lost.
What makes us forget this special trait?
What happens when we grow up that causes us to "turn" in the opposite direction.
We were all kids once, how could we forget?
Some might experience it still but it's often short lived and tends to drift away until the next big thing catches our attention.
Kids should be looking up to adults for guidance, it shouldn't be the other way around?
Or should it.
Okay, I dragged this out long enough. What is it about kids we can all learn from?
It is the key to staying young and vibrant. It's the key to living the life you were born to live.
I'm talking about good old fashioned ENTHUSIASM.
Get excited about your goals. Get excited about the weight you're going to lose from following your fitness program. Get excited about your future and the many things you're going to accomplish.
Attack any challenge, any task, new projects, with child like optimism.
"Enthusiasm is contagious"
You'll attract opportunities, luck, and happiness.
Rate your enthusiasm from 1 to 10, wherever you are on the scale knock it up a notch or two and see what kind of results you get.
Master Yourself,
Sifu Martin
Monday, May 4, 2009
Financial Crisis!
Everyone around us is screaming "Financial Crisis!"
I say we have a "Personal Energy Crisis!"
Do you POUNCE out of bed or ROLL out of it?
How would you rate your energy level during the day?
Half asleep, on Auto-Pilot, Average wattage or a Dynamo?
Your body is constantly giving you signals.
Are you avoiding the signals and getting a quick fix by drinking more sugar laced coffee and chugging energy drinks?
If you're driving down the highway and a sign says: "Construction Work Ahead-Slow Down".
Do you floor it or follow the instructions on the sign?
Why would it be different when it comes to your own body.
You don't need me to tell you what you should change as far as diet and activity goes. Chances are you already know what drains you of your energy.
So why keep on following the same pattern?
Who knows.
One road just seems easier I guess while the other one requires some sacrifice and effort.
Maybe the fact that Diabetes affects millions of kids and adults due to mal nutrition and lack of activity isn't enough, maybe when it hits a billion then maybe we'll see a change in people's lifestyles?
Or maybe when coronary heart disaese affects someone you know or worse, affects YOU, then we'll all get involved in charity walks, fundraisers and being conscious of the choices we make.
I hate being reactive. It goes against the principles we teach in our schools about personal protection.
"A good defense is a strong offense"
If you wait too long there's only so many punches you can dodge, deflect and absorb.
Same thing with your health. There's only so many treatments, operations, and drugs you can take before you come to the conclusion that putting your health first, reading labels on the food you buy, and staying active, should be a top priority.
Temptations are all around you, throughout your day, be one of the few that actually puts in practice 2 very basic principles that seems to have been lost in our society...
Self-Control and Self-Motivation to preserve optimal health in mind, body, and spirit.
Master Yourself,
Sifu Martin
I say we have a "Personal Energy Crisis!"
Do you POUNCE out of bed or ROLL out of it?
How would you rate your energy level during the day?
Half asleep, on Auto-Pilot, Average wattage or a Dynamo?
Your body is constantly giving you signals.
Are you avoiding the signals and getting a quick fix by drinking more sugar laced coffee and chugging energy drinks?
If you're driving down the highway and a sign says: "Construction Work Ahead-Slow Down".
Do you floor it or follow the instructions on the sign?
Why would it be different when it comes to your own body.
You don't need me to tell you what you should change as far as diet and activity goes. Chances are you already know what drains you of your energy.
So why keep on following the same pattern?
Who knows.
One road just seems easier I guess while the other one requires some sacrifice and effort.
Maybe the fact that Diabetes affects millions of kids and adults due to mal nutrition and lack of activity isn't enough, maybe when it hits a billion then maybe we'll see a change in people's lifestyles?
Or maybe when coronary heart disaese affects someone you know or worse, affects YOU, then we'll all get involved in charity walks, fundraisers and being conscious of the choices we make.
I hate being reactive. It goes against the principles we teach in our schools about personal protection.
"A good defense is a strong offense"
If you wait too long there's only so many punches you can dodge, deflect and absorb.
Same thing with your health. There's only so many treatments, operations, and drugs you can take before you come to the conclusion that putting your health first, reading labels on the food you buy, and staying active, should be a top priority.
Temptations are all around you, throughout your day, be one of the few that actually puts in practice 2 very basic principles that seems to have been lost in our society...
Self-Control and Self-Motivation to preserve optimal health in mind, body, and spirit.
Master Yourself,
Sifu Martin
Friday, May 1, 2009
It's Louse Time! Know your Roots
If you're new to my list of focused, motivated, self- starters, Welcome.
(if you're not new jump right away to today's lesson below)
Every day I communicate to you the best ways to train and the kind of mindset it takes to get results either in your physical fitness or martial art training.
Friday is always what I call: "Louse Time". Modeled after Bruce Lee's strategy in Enter the Dragon.
You know that part where he's having tea with the government agent but he's disturbed by one of his students and Bruce Lee tells the agent: It's Louse Time! The agent replies with his British accent: "yes of course".
Since I'm 6 years old that scene has always stuck with me and I'll be using that same strategy with YOU every week.
Friday is where I share with you Life Lessons and Direction given to me by my dad (and Sifu) every Friday.
Today's lesson is: Know Your Roots
This statement can take on different meanings.
And this morning, my father explored a few of them which I'd like to share with you today.
You've all heard the phrase: "Get back to basics".
Mastery of martial art skill can be attained through regular practice of the core principles such as: Speed, Intensity, Power, Flexibility, and Balance.
Whenever something doesn't feel right whether you're doing a take down or any kind of self-defense technique for example, it can always be linked back to something you didn't quite grasp in the basic levels.
To know one's roots also means: "to see through the essence of things".
What is the essence of Martial Arts?
Some might say, Mastery. Others. Liberation. Maybe even to: "Know Thy Self"
What about:
The essence of a relationship.
The essence of physical conditioning.
The essence of family.
The essence of service.
When you break down what you do, to its essence you have clarity. That clarity serves as motivation when IT is challenged.
Knowing your Roots also reminds you of how far you've come. I'm sure you'll agree, making a parallel with martial art training, realizing where you were 6 mths ago and comparing it with where you are now offers great satisfaction and proof that you're progressing and growing.
Bruce Lee was also quoted saying: "Know your Roots and you'll know how to spring out"
I'll keep that one for another time.
Until then,
Master Yourself,
Sifu Martin
(if you're not new jump right away to today's lesson below)
Every day I communicate to you the best ways to train and the kind of mindset it takes to get results either in your physical fitness or martial art training.
Friday is always what I call: "Louse Time". Modeled after Bruce Lee's strategy in Enter the Dragon.
You know that part where he's having tea with the government agent but he's disturbed by one of his students and Bruce Lee tells the agent: It's Louse Time! The agent replies with his British accent: "yes of course".
Since I'm 6 years old that scene has always stuck with me and I'll be using that same strategy with YOU every week.
Friday is where I share with you Life Lessons and Direction given to me by my dad (and Sifu) every Friday.
Today's lesson is: Know Your Roots
This statement can take on different meanings.
And this morning, my father explored a few of them which I'd like to share with you today.
You've all heard the phrase: "Get back to basics".
Mastery of martial art skill can be attained through regular practice of the core principles such as: Speed, Intensity, Power, Flexibility, and Balance.
Whenever something doesn't feel right whether you're doing a take down or any kind of self-defense technique for example, it can always be linked back to something you didn't quite grasp in the basic levels.
To know one's roots also means: "to see through the essence of things".
What is the essence of Martial Arts?
Some might say, Mastery. Others. Liberation. Maybe even to: "Know Thy Self"
What about:
The essence of a relationship.
The essence of physical conditioning.
The essence of family.
The essence of service.
When you break down what you do, to its essence you have clarity. That clarity serves as motivation when IT is challenged.
Knowing your Roots also reminds you of how far you've come. I'm sure you'll agree, making a parallel with martial art training, realizing where you were 6 mths ago and comparing it with where you are now offers great satisfaction and proof that you're progressing and growing.
Bruce Lee was also quoted saying: "Know your Roots and you'll know how to spring out"
I'll keep that one for another time.
Until then,
Master Yourself,
Sifu Martin
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)