Less discussed is the role parents play in the development of young martial artists. The decision making of parents can drastically alter the length, quality, and value of a student's training.

Over the years I've gotten to interact with parents of all variety; their priorities in the dojo have been just as varied. Some parents consider martial art training a convenient alternative to day care. After all, in martial arts the child gets physical activity and regimented social interaction. These parents will generally use the dojo as a drop off point while they attend to matters elsewhere.

On the opposite end of the spectrum are parents who watch attentively every class. In fact, some find it difficult not to interact with their child if they see any misbehavior or waning focus. These parents essentially have one foot on the training floor.

Mixed in between those two stereotypes is every gradation you can think of.

For this article, let's focus on parents who play an active role in the martial development of their children and explore some of the heftiest hurdles they'll encounter while participating in their youngster's unique journey.

The Motivation Rollercoaster

It's astounding watching students as they fluctuate between utter infatuation with martial arts and abject horror at the prospect of training.

This is true of artists of all ages and experience levels, but never is it more palpable than with children.

A parent's job is easy when the child is enthusiastic. It doesn't take much work to get them packed into the car and off to the dojo. However, when that enthusiasm drifts, training day can turn into an epic slew of whining, pouting, and negotiations.

The trouble doesn't end at the dojo door either. Once the child is out on the floor their techniques and stances tend to have the precision of a wet noodle. Every drill becomes a chore and making faces in the mirror becomes a much more attractive alternative to paying attention.

The parent, seeing this, is left to wonder if the Sensei is noticing the behavior or losing patience. They then have to decide if it's right to chime in and try to whip their child back into place.

The parent also has to wonder if they are driving their child too hard. What if school, activities, and training are just too much?

Managing the motivation rollercoaster can be daunting. As a Sensei the mission is clear - continue teaching the student for as long as the parent brings him/her, or until they are old enough to decide for themselves. For the parent, knowing when to push through resistance and when to give in is a psychological puzzle, the solution of which requires further discussion.

The Setback Conundrum

What is one of the biggest complaints about traditional training in the modern world?

The proliferation of rank.

Nowadays a black belt is something easily attained by any neighborhood 12 year old. If you pay enough and show up enough, you're good to go.

The modern day psychology of reward-at-all-costs has created an interesting paradigm in the world of martial arts. Many schools have integrated inflated rank systems, filled with a myriad of stripes, belt colors, trophies, and patches. The purpose of which is to provide a steady stream of external rewards in order to keep students satisfied.

Of course, the fees associated with such programs also helps the profitability of the school, but that's not our concern here.

Let's assume for a moment that the majority of the general populace accepts the idea of steady-stream-rewards.

In contrast, let's analyze one of the most powerful tools of an old school dojo: failure.

In many old martial circles you'll hear the phrase "Nana korobi, ya oki", which means "Seven falls, eight getting up". The phrase is used to indicate a broad sense of resilience throughout life, but is acutely demonstrated in martial arts training. Not only are you literally thrown down in martial arts, but you also experience roadblock after roadblock as you attempt to improve your body, mind, and spirit.

One of the most top secret aspects of being a Sensei is intentionally setting up challenges for students to overcome. A good Sensei doesn't want to spoon feed everything to students; instead they want to encourage effort in the right direction.

This is one of the fundamental crossroads where Eastern and Western cultures tend to clash. Eastern aloofness and Western directness can react in a destructive way, ultimately causing a student to grow agitated and quit, or they can result in a powerful combination of external knowledge with internal inquiry.

So...how do parents fit into all this? They need to be able to watch their children fail and encourage them to get back up and try again.

Certain pressures will tempt a parent not to engage in this practice. The first pressure is from the child him/herself. Failure never tastes good, and the child will want to quit repeatedly. It can be a tough slog to get them to push through. The second kind of pressure is societal and ego based. Some parents refuse to see any fault in what their child is doing, even if a Sensei does. Furthermore, if an egotistical parent sees other children progressing faster than their own they will have the tendency to accuse the Sensei of favoritism, poor teaching, or other kinds of incompetence. At that point, they can allow their child to quit without any sense of guilt or fault.

 Navigating these subtle psychological factors can be challenging.

Recognizing Bad Teaching

Let's make things more complicated. As mentioned above, a parent needs to be careful not to fall prey to their own ego and the emotional swings of their child. This includes not projecting fault onto a Sensei if success isn't immediate.

But what happens when a Sensei actually IS at fault? Believe it or not (but believe it), there are a ton of shoddy Sensei out there.

Sometimes instructors have to be tough on students. As stated earlier, putting up intentional roadblocks can help students overcome their own perceived limitations and teach them qualities of resilience, determination, and self confidence (that all too buzzed word in martial arts circles).

But a lot of Sensei aren't so altruistic in their motivations. Many are guided by how much money a parent has given, how many sponsored events they've attended, and other even more nefarious factors.

Sometimes it's easy for perceptive parents to pick up on the difference between a tough teacher and a bad one. Let's take a look at some common red flags bad teachers may exhibit:

• Militaristic dominance over students, including insults, injury, and abusive regimentation.
• Touching and feeling of an uncomfortable variety or in a manner that clearly isn't related to technique.
• Explicit favoritism, providing perks to students that are above and beyond the norm of their rank.
• Probing comments about a student or parents relationship life, physical appearance, or dating life outside the dojo.
• Excessive grouping of students into pay tiers, sometimes through the addition of many special "clubs".

Unfortunately, bad behavior often manifests itself in more sublte ways. Teachers with unscrupulous motives tend to be good at hiding it, and only after months or years of analysis will a parent catch on to the true motives of the teacher.

There's no easy solution to this problem. Parents simply need to keep involved and keep their eyes and ears open. Most of all, they need to be honest with themselves where the problem might lie.

Letting Go

Most instructors hate to admit it, but some students simply aren't cut out for long-term training. Martial arts can be arduous, thankless, and boring. Not everyone was born to fall in love with them.

As mentioned above, one of the core responsibilities of a parent is to help their child push through those times of low motivation and setback. Sometimes this can equate to literally/figuratively dragging the child to the dojo.

How then is a parent to know when it's time to let go?

As you might have guessed, there is no easy answer. Sensei, of course, will recommend you push through any and all obstacles because they know the lofty value of long-term training. They want your child to have a life enhanced by the arts (or they want your money - remember, there are bad teachers too).

Parents, on the other hand, need to help balance all aspects of the child's life. Kids are samplers by nature; they tend to enjoy an activity for awhile, get bored, and move on. Of course, pushing through that sampling tendency is what turns a good young student into a great mature student. But what if it isn't sampling, and the child would be much better off elsewhere?

Of course, you can split time between martial arts and other endeavors, but then you run the risk of overwhelming an already tight schedule.

The best overarching advice I can give in this regard involves "the spark". Development in the arts is unique for every single person that engages in practice. If a parent is observant, they might see certain shifts or sparks in a child's development. Unexpected moments of intensity, focus, self defense skill, good behavior, courtesy, etc etc. If a parent sees these things and believes that the arts are turning their child into a better person, pushing through resistance might be appropriate. If they are not seeing any positive gains, or even negative tendencies of bullying, disobedience, disrespect, etc., it may be time to move on.

Grazing the Surface

Being a dojo parent can involve complex psychology (I've seen it). It can be just as complicated for the young student (I've lived that).

Sometimes parents can be creative with solutions, such as joining the class themselves. If they are on the floor, it's easier for them to 'lead by example', and of course the child recognizes that since a parent is nearby behavior is a requisite of class. But ultimately, nothing external will be a permanent solution. The parent and Sensei can guide and inspire, but they can't decide what's in the heart of the student.

The problems and solutions I've offered here are just a hint at the broader picture. If you are a Sensei, parent, or student, the more you learn about long term success in the martial arts the better equipped you'll be to deal with twists, turns, and roadblocks along "the way".

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Karate, literally meaning open hand, is one of the most popular martial arts in the world.  Developed in the Ryukyu kingdom prior to the Japanese invasion of the 19th century, Karate has its origins in India through Bodhidharma who was a Buddhist saint that brought Martial Arts to China. Although Karate has many styles and different philosophies, they all teach the same thing: self-expression, confidence, courage to stand up for yourself, and the most important of all how to become a better person.

The most important thing I have learned through Karate is how to take everything in academically and to open myself to new ideas and not limit myself. As Bruce Lee said, "to have no limit as limit". My Sensei has taught this to me and this is one lesson I will keep with me always. I have also learned that cross training is very important and that each Martial Artist should know what to expect from a different style. I will remember one thing my Sensei said to me when I was training, it’s not just about punching and kicking. How true this statement was. Learning to control yourself while learning this violent thing, finding the harmony between the inner peace and the violent being we all have inside us, to be able to express ourselves and feel like we belong to something much bigger and greater than ourselves. There is a point in your training when you realize that this thing has grown beyond physical and is trying to reach for the spiritual plane and that is where your true training begins. You start following these warrior ethics and codes you never knew existed and you become an artist of life, as quoted by Dr. Richard Kim, master of Goju Ryu.

I hope each Martial Artist shares this dream with me, to become as strong as you can both physically and mentally and being able to control ourselves in the toughest of situations and be role models for society.

The plot was nonexistent and the voice acting made me want to find the mute button in a hurry. Nevertheless, when I was young this cartoon made all the sense in the world and I loved it.

Was I wrong as a kid to hold it up as greatness? Am I wrong now for seeing it differently? No. I simply have a different mind today than I did all those years ago.

Of course, growing out of a cartoon isn't a very monumental personal development. But there are more subtle examples of how the mind can develop year to year, week to week, and day to day.

Books, in general, are read once and then filed away. Every now and then one stands out to each of us in such a way that it demands closer inspection. Most prudent martial artists have a few specific books about the arts that they deem exceptional, and have revisited them from time to time.

The important thing about special books isn't the raw information but the complexity of the concepts; the depth of the insight that reveals more over time, and improves as the reader's experience improves.

The cartoon of my childhood was entertaining, but it lacked depth. On the contrary, I can watch certain movies that I grew up with and experience them like they are brand new, filled with powerful emotion and drama.

The Point

I'm not suggesting you should go reread old books (although you should). Nor am I suggesting you should revisit old movies (although you could). What I'm saying is that every day you have a new mind. Sometimes the difference between yesterday and today is infinitesimally small. But of course, the depth of that development is entirely on you.

Every time you step into the dojo you are bringing a new set of experiences, a deeper wisdom, and a broadened outlook. Just how much of that growth you supply is dictated by your desire to learn new things and keep an open mind.

This reality is critical when practicing the fundamentals of your system, sometimes called "basics" or "kihon". Every time you execute a technique you have a chance to see it in a new light with new context. Your mind today can see with better potential than you could yesterday. Of course, not every repetition will result in spontaneous enlightenment, and if you get entirely lost inside your own mind you'll soon feel mental fatigue. As in all things there should be balance. Indeed, sometimes quieting the mind through pure physical expression can be more valuable than analysis. Regardless, the decision should be conscious and aimed at higher goals.

If you find yourself settling for "knowing enough" or going through the motions, then you've allowed yourself to become stagnant. Participation without thought and emotion is a waste of Today's Mind, and a disservice to yourself.

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STORY:

After a hard evening's workout, a sweat drenched student approached her instructor. She shuffled her feet for a moment, then asked, "Sensei why do we always do our blocks the same?"

The sensei replied, "Because that is how my sensei always taught them. We are carrying on tradition."

The girl asked, "But why did he do it that way?"

The sensei replied, "Because that is how his teacher taught him! You know, I've explained the fundamentals of our blocks, the physics of our movements and how each block compliments our stances. I'm surprised you don't know all this already! Certainly by your rank you should know."

The girl responded, "Yes, but I was just wondering if there is no better way to do it. Are we sure we are doing it the best way?"

The sensei replied, "Yes of course. This way has always proven effective for me and those that have gone before me. Are you doubting your own system?"

The girl responded, "Not doubting, just curious."

The sensei learned a valuable lesson that evening.

Homer Simpson: "No, no...this scheme is SURE to make us rich.  And quick!"

One of two things is going to happen in this post - either I'm going to reveal some fantastic money making secrets, or I'm going to use 'getting rich' as an analogy for training.  You take a guess.

***

There are all kinds of 'brilliant' ideas people create to get rich quick.  The most famous is the pyramid scheme.  These ill-conceived concepts crop up because it can be very arduous building up money.  Heck, I know if I could get $100,000 tomorrow I'd look into it.  It's also the reason why we play the lottery (and ignore the mathematical improbability of winning).

Sadly, the same is true when it comes to martial arts. Instead of financial pyramid schemes we see promotional pyramid schemes, where groups of 'experts' get together and promote themselves to extremely high ranks.  I'm still waiting to hear about the world's first 20th dan...it's bound to happen.  More harmful are the schemes where instructors ripoff their student body through inflated monthly fees, testing fees, belt fees, etc etc.

But lets focus more on the training side of things.

At home I've got this gigantic glass jar where I keep all of my loose change.  You've probably got something similar, yes?

I've put a ton of coins in there and have been storing up for years and years.  Despite that, the damn jar looks virtually empty!

Also, the bb gun hole wasn't my fault.

It was a great day when I first realized I could no longer see the glass bottom of the jar because I had saved up enough change.  But since then, I've gone on autopilot.  I no longer really watch the level of the coins rise because it's such slow progress.  I know I'm putting money in, but to constantly fret over how much (or how little) is in there would be wasted energy.

Martial arts training can be very similar.  How many workout sessions can you think of where you really thought to yourself, "man - I've improved by leaps and bounds today!"  If you're anything like me, those occasions are few and far between.  Most of the time training seems like a struggle against futility, improving skills so slowly that it barely seems like any progress is being made at all.

At first, I watched my progress in karate like a hawk.  I was really pleased about things I could do and opined about things I couldn't.  But since then, I've gone on autopilot. I've simply done my best when either stepping onto the dojo floor or exploring martial arts on my own.  The journey in itself is becoming more and more the goal.

So to you I say keep dropping that change in the jar!  I know it doesn't seem like a lot.  Whether you're in top form and toss in fifty cents each time, or if you're struggling and only have five cents, remember - you're building the total and one day you'll take a peek at the jar and wonder where all that money came from!

This seemingly masochistic piece of human nature is one of the reasons why martial arts are so important in modern society; but I think true martial value might come more in overcoming the little bad guy inside, rather than a big one outside.

Self Defense...Value and Limitations

The more things change, the more they stay the same.  As far back as human history goes, there has been a need for one individual to protect him/herself against another.  That's why when discussing martial arts, one of the first topics always brought up is self defense.

Karate...BJJ...Kung Fu...they're all methods of combat, and unless you're a soldier, you'll be fighting as an ordinary citizen.  Thus, learning a combat art is an extraordinary way to increase your physical capability of defending yourself.

Furthermore, we live in a society that does not permit the casual carrying of firearms. These laws have pulled us out of 'old west' mentality, but have also delivered the bad guys a distinct advantage against the good guys (us).  One recourse left to the modern citizen is combat training.

Yet, when you boil it down, the greatest fighter in the world can still get shot from ten feet away or stabbed in the back. So...why even bother with martial arts if their primary purpose is so compromised?

Sure, Kick and Punch (But Also Think)

As you've probably heard me harp about before, the benefits of mind and spirit are just as critical in training as body.  For example, a skilled instructor can not only teach a student how to fight, but also how to detect and avoid bad situations.  An experienced martial artist is just as adept at conflict resolution as he is at conflict "resolution" (Seagal style).

Furthermore, a martial artist will analyze his surroundings at all times and realize ways to avoid potentially risky environments.  In doing so, the probability of getting into a brawl or encountering a desperate gunman are drastically reduced.

But...be that as it may...no one can completely control the world around them.  Bad things will still happen no matter the effort and attention payed.  Once again, why bother with training?

Reality Landing

So bad things are going to happen and we can't stop them.  What an uplifting post.  But don't worry, there is a little light at the end of the tunnel.

Let's think statistically - how often do people get robbed or assaulted in their life? Once or twice?  Some unlucky few experience it more often, but many experience it less.  On average, we are all likely to face scant few situations where fighting is called for.  Now how often do we think about getting robbed or assaulted? bullied? accosted? raped?

It's much more often.  This is true for everyone.

What martial arts really gives us is the strength to face these fears with courage.  Rather than shiver at the thought of walking to our cars alone, we can command a straight posture and say to ourselves "sure you might attack me, but it won't be as easy as you think."

We can use our training to solidify our spirit and determination, which will exude from us in a way that deters would-be aggressors, prompting them to try an easier target.

Ultimately, we transform our internal bad guy into a constant reminder of our martial calling, using him to spur us forward and remind us that we aren't so easily drawn down into dread and fear.

Sure, any of us could be shot.  Any one of us could be gone tomorrow. But I'd rather go knowing that I didn't live in helplessness.

Martial arts...Budo...is what we can thank for that.

As martial artists constantly endeavor to increase their knowledge and ability, they make internal connections that hadn't existed years, days, or even seconds before.  Just as memories and experiences burn new pathways through the psyche, so does every moment pursuing "the martial way".

Furthermore, no living thing starts off matured.  Even the tallest redwood tree begins as a tiny seed.  The same is true when practicing the arts.  In karate, there is a symbol known as Mitsu Domoe that can be used to demonstrate the kernel of knowledge that every martial artist begins with -

In dojo all over the world, instructors are sitting down with fresh beginners and stating very simply, "your training is a combination of body, mind, and spirit!"

Unfortunately, the prongs seem woefully far away from each other.  As the beginner struggles to punch and kick properly, he/she is hardly concerned about character development.  Truly, body, mind, and spirit appear perpetually separated.

Of course time goes by and diligent training continues.  Practitioners learn more and more about each portion of their art, and eventually come to understand that there is more to each piece of the Mitsu Domoe than initially stated.  For example, body doesn't simply mean physical fitness.  It involves a complex combination of movement and ability.  In fact, it could be broken down inside the "body" prong like this -

Here we see "body" made up of speed, power, and technique.  If the martial artist maintains a balanced perspective in his training, soon his understanding of mind and spirit will grow as well.  He'll begin to think like this -

Arriving at this stage is noteworthy because it can be very tempting to make training lopsided.  For example, it would feel rewarding to achieve a deeper level of knowledge in the body aspect of the arts.  In order to experience that feeling more often, a practitioner might focus predominantly on body, leaving mind and spirit behind.

But let's say time and dedication has allowed the practitioner to acquire skill in all three aspects of his training.

Despite his efforts, there is still a disconnect.  As you'll notice above, there are substantial white gaps in his knowledge and understanding.  He must continue to dig and explore, which can be intimidating.  Having achieved a level of ability (and maybe even a black belt), he could easily "accept his limitations" and call it quits.

But should growth continue, it would look something like this-

An odd tapestry begins to develop and connections are made where there were none before. Navigating between aspects of the arts becomes easier, and body/mind/spirit doesn't seem so impenetrably separated.

Of course, there are still plenty of white gaps, agitatingly prominent inside a finely woven web. Should they ever be filled, the shape would turn into this-

Dazzling and intricate!  It's funny to think that this was built one piece at a time.

As he's dug deeper and deeper, more gaps in knowledge have been revealed to the practitioner.  Where the beginner saw one gap, now the experienced exponent sees many.  Perhaps more than he could ever tackle.  Of course, the joy is in the journey, so the exploration must continue.

Hereafter something fascinating happens.  Technique, mental acuity, and keenness of spirit  have become so interlocked and interwoven that the Mitsu Domoe has taken on a unique form-

Unusual - this phase seems less impressive to the eye and actually has some bumps and ridges.  The crisp definition of one aspect from another is gone and it's tough to say where one prong ends and another begins.  The center seems to permeate outward.

What exactly are we looking at here? Is this the same karate that we saw our beginner practice?

No, this is a bugeisha's art.  An art that has followed the way of balance, and is taking on its own form.  At any time this art can be broken down into basic elements, but when used fully, can barely be recognized as anything other than unique.

At this point, it is a matter of will more than anything that allows the bugeisha to continue onto the next phase-

The void.

It's everything, and it's nothing.  Through decades of filling the mind with techniques, theories, philosophies, and strategies, the bugeisha eventually arrives at nothing at all.  This nothingness cannot be achieved by lesser means, and it cannot be penetrated by anything lesser than itself.

The bugeisha and his art are one thing, which is no-thing.

Last time you heard from me I was reporting on some Elite XC shinanigans.  Since then, I have been wheeling and dealing down in Miami Beach.  I'd like to tell you a little bit about that trip, and about how my martial arts training affected the whole experience.  Plus I'm going to include some sweet pictures.  Like this one -

That was the view out of my hotel window, and I definitely enjoyed it. But let's start at the beginning...

The Call and the Flight

A few weeks ago I was at work when we got a call.  It was an invite to present our company (ClassicWines.com) at the Miami International Wine Fair down in Miami Beach.  This event is usually relegated to wineries and retailers, but we've been in touch with other businesses in Miami so it seemed like a natural extension to have us there as well.  It was agreed upon and plans were put into motion.

Time went by quickly between the call and the event, and before I knew it I was double checking my carry-on and setting out for Philadelphia airport.

You may be surprised to hear this, but this was my first flight! Somehow or another, there's never been a time when I couldn't drive or take the train to my desired destination.  Naturally, I was very precautious and made sure to check everything twice.

As I was going through security, the metal detector alarm went off.  Three armed gaurds came running at me very quickly, trying to subdue me.  I was able to roundhouse kick one in the face while tossing pens at the other two like shurikens. (Sorry, I thought this part needed a little extra spice).

No, I actually used martial arts to improve my mindset.  In a situation that could be very stressful (crowded airport for the first time), I was able to calm my mind and absorb the commotion around me.  This helped me navigate around wayward travelers and traverse security with speedy precision.  In fact, when in a calm, focused state of mind, I also find that I am more pleasant and cheerful.  The folks working at the airport no doubt appreciate a smile now and then amongst the grouchy passengers in a hurry.

Miami, and the Weather is Fine

My first flight went very smoothly and we arrived safely in Fort Lauderdale.  With winter weather quickly bearing down on my native PA, sights such as these were very welcome -

and

On the Scene - Miami Wine Fair

When we got to the wine fair itself, it was easy to let myself slip into a little bit of intimidation.  After all, there were a lot of wine-knowledgeable people in attendance.  I wanted to blend into the crowd for awhile and not draw attention to myself.  Unfortunately, I knew blending wasn't an option (Sorry Aikido folks, not this time).

In a self-pep-talk fashion, I reminded myself about the other stressful experiences I've overcome.  After all, if I can pass my sandan testing in front of the watchful eyes of Hanshi Heilman and the Renshi Kai board, I can do this right?

So I went to it, and after my first few successful interactions, the ice wore off and I was ready to go.  It reminded me a lot of sparring: as you are padding up before the first fight, doubts and fears are still running through your mind.  Your body is still drumming up complaints, instinctively trying to keep you out of harm's way.  Yet, after the clock starts and the match begins, anxiety melts away inside of mushin and kokoro.

Miami After Hours

Outside of the conference itself, I had a really great chance to sample Miami life.  For example, the condo we all hung out at after the conference had this for a view -

The island you're looking at is where stars tend to buy their pads.  I was not invited to that island.

The night life was equally as interesting.  I'm sure you've heard from TV and word-of-mouth about South Beach being a very trendy, very club oriented scene.  These rumors are true.  We checked out some fantastic restaurants and they really do spare no expense.  Very attentive, very courteous. Very loud 80s music (I guess it's ironically hip?)

One thing I learned about myself while doin-it-Miami-Vice-style is that I'm a very basic individual.  I've spent many years through training trying to strip down the layers of myself that I didn't care for or that I thought needed improvement.  Experiencing even a modicum of lavishness put me right out of my element.

After All Was Said and Done

This was a great, eye opening experience; but it was my initial intent to make it so.  I wanted to walk into the airport, the city, the convention center, the restaurants, and the beaches with fresh eyes.  I wanted it to feel new because it was new, and I didn't want to let myself get buried in all of the contingencies and worries that could have eaten away at me.

Interesting.  Both the question and the wording.

Most people have heard of Chi, even if they have only the faintest familiarity with the martial arts.  Shows like Kung Fu, combined with slews of low budget martial arts movies, have made Chi a household concept.  Supposedly, Chi is that magical power that causes Shaolin monks to levitate and smash concrete with their bare hands.

Kung Fu with David Carradine

Of course, the question wasn't "what is Chi?", but "do you believe in Chi?"  And I would like to answer that directly - I don't think Chi is something that needs to be 'believed in.'  Chi being "mystical" is a bit of a western manifestation of something they was initially misunderstood.  This mysticism has persisted because it translates well into movies is perpetuated by charlatans who know they can make a quick buck.

Chi (or ki) is mostly just an eastern explanation of the natural energy we all have.  A more modern term is biokinetics.  Your ability to apply force on an object or to move your body is all powered by Chi.  Further, Chi can be focused.  When you contract your muscles and well up your energy for a sharp punch, you've essentially focused your Chi.

We all know energy exists.  If you watch a fire, you see heat and light energy being emitted from the chemical reaction taking place.  When we eat a good meal, we feel revitalized because the body is replenished with the natural chemicals it needs to create the energy that fuels our body.  It's not mystical...it's just life!

Therefore, you can say I do believe in Chi...in the traditional sense.

This leads us to the bigger question, the Chi elephant in the room - do I believe in the miraculous abilities espoused by "Chi Masters."

No.  For the most part.  95% of Chi manipulation I have encountered involves gaijin pretending like they are David Carradine.  It occurs often.  There is nothing mystical about striking someone in the temple and watching them get knocked out.  There is also nothing mystical about striking two vital points that cause an electrical disruption to the brain.  There is ALSO nothing mystical about temporarily cutting off bloodflow to the brain.

These are just effective techniques.  You can use a light 'Chi' touch because a compliant partner in a calm state is very receptive to disruptions in his/her body.  In other words, kyusho isn't mystical.  It just takes tons and tons of practice.

Chi That I Don't Buy Into

As I mentioned earlier, some people use the myth of Chi for their own personal gain.  Somewhere along the line, "the no touch knockout" started to make an appearance.  This baffles me.  In all the old texts I have read (think bubishi), there is never a mention of the no touch knockout.  If this is such an astounding technique, wouldn't the Okinawans have at least hinted at it in their most important martial text?

Maybe it was too secret...who knows.  But none of the senior instructors I have ever trained with have claimed to know this technique, nor have they ever seen it done by the Okinawan masters of the previous generation.  Nor are there any tales handed down through the generations of Okinawans about this technique being used.  Yet...here it is:

I'm not here to make any judgments about the character of this instructor or the students; I'm merely suggesting that this technique works on the students for reason other than the myth of Chi.

Consider this: hypnosis is a voluntary state of mind.  People willingly interact with a hypnotist in order to cure small ailments or unveil buried parts of their psyche.  The mind is a powerful tool, and when combined with will, can be affected dramatically.

If you were told over and over again that you're feeling Chi energy from your instructor, and all your peers are telling you you feel it, and you really want to feel it...guess what...you're going to feel it.

Why is this dangerous?  Because it turns into this:

This was just a sporting event.  Those Chi students could be in for a lot worse in real life.

Chi That I Won't Discount Right Away

I'm a skeptic, it's true.  But that certainly doesn't mean I'm closed minded.  We are far from unlocking all the little mysteries that make up the human mind.  The first kind of Chi that I do not discount is physical conditioning plus trained willpower.

Shaolin Monks do, in fact, break cement slabs.  They lay on beds of nails and endure spear thrusts without any puncture wounds.  These feats are truly impressive, but they come from years of rigorous physical training and learning how to control the energy in the body.  Think of it this way: if you are just standing around and someone sucker punches you in the gut, you are bound to go down in a heap.  But if you tense all your abdominal strength and focus your entire being into absorbing that blow...you'll be ok (assuming you've done adequate physical training).  These kinds of dynamic feats are impressive and serve to show the adaptability of the human body.

The other kind of Chi I don't readily discount is healing.  Acupuncture, Qigong, Tai Chi, and others all claim to have healing properties.  These arts use the Chinese meridian theory of Chi flow in the body.  Much like Kyusho can be used to disrupt electrical/blood flow, so can healing be used to promote it.

These healing arts get very complex, utilizing different times of day, meridians, vital points, and more.  How much is myth and superstition vs how much promotes health I couldn't possibly say.  All I'm saying is that this is Chi that seems feasible to me.

I'd like to leave you with something that blurs the lines.  At first when you watch this, you'll be inclined to disbelieve.  I know I was.  But by the end I was left scratching my chin.  How much of this is Chi fluff...how much is real?  I'll let you decide.

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Special thanks to everyone for reading and commenting.  Feel free to ask questions the way Lizzie did!