Martial Vitality

Are you a martial artist who pushes his or her limits? Do you look for ways to extend your experiences outside the martial arena? Over the last few months I've tried a few new exercise programs to complement my martial arts training. I describe them here and share why I think they could help you as well! 1. Jungshin Fitness.  In August I attended an instructor workshop for Jungshin Fitness . Jungshin is a Korean term meaning “straight spirit” or “awakened mind.” I learned about Jungshin via this Fox News Health TV segment . Annika Kahn, a fourth degree Kuk Sool Won black belt, developed Jungshin as a physical and mental conditioning program. Jungshin workouts are unique in that they use either one 40" wooden sword or two 21" wooden swords as levers to enhance the exercise experience. Classes integrate strength, breathing, balance, precision, aerobic conditioning, and meditation. Participants execute a variety of sword cuts, footwork drills, stance transitions, fingertip p...

Has your martial arts trainer ever crossed the line? I recently watched a YouTube video that, in my opinion, went too far to supposedly demonstrate a martial arts technique. I subscribe to the Funker Tactical YouTube feed because I like seeing Doug Marcaida's Filipino Martial Arts. On September 12, 2016 they published a video titled VIP Knife Defence | INSANE LIVE BLADE DEMO by Fred Mastro!!!  The link starts at the 5:15 mark, with the screen capture at left 12 seconds later. In the video, Fred Mastro instructs his demonstrator to hold a real knife to Doug Marcaida's throat. Fred then strikes the knife holder in the leg to disarm him, without harming Doug. My read of Doug's body language and facial expressions is that he did not think this was a good idea. However, he trusted Fred and the demonstrator enough to not expect his throat to be cut. There is absolutely no reason to use a live weapon in a demonstration like this, for three reasons: 1. It's more dangerous than ...