MMA Cost Of Martial Arts Classes MMA LIFE SHOP

Martial arts are one of the best ways to stay healthy and fit. Martial arts like jujitsu, karate and judo improve precision and concentration. They are also known to inculcate self-discipline and punctuality. The best way of learning martial arts is by joining the local martial arts school or club. Choosing a martial arts club is not at all complicated. Once the goals of training become clear, the choice becomes almost clear. There are some important factors that need to be taken into consideration before joining in a particular school. Joining a good school or club can make the learning experience very enjoyable.



The easiest way to locate a local club is to search yellow pages. Advertisements in papers or online classifieds may also help. With the wide popularity of the World Wide Web, most clubs have their own websites. Running a search in a search engine like Google or Yahoo! May be helpful in locating good clubs. Running searches in local search engines and directories may also help. In you happen to live in Orange County, California you can easily locate a club as there are many clubs are in Anaheim, Anaheim Hills, Buena Park, Costa Mesa, Dana Point, Fountain Valley, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Laguna Beach and many more areas.







The next step would be the cost of classes. It is better to enquire before hand about all costs and not just the tuition fee as additional fee may be involved. Depending upon the school the registration fee may vary from anywhere between $50 and $400. This also depends upon the duration of the course. It is also better to for a free demo class. Many schools and clubs offer demo classes but in case they don't, asking them for a demo class may help. They may either offer it for free or for a reduced introductory price. Introductory classes are usually of 1 week duration and may cost a nominal $10 to $20. Getting committed to a martial arts club without test trying may not be a good decision.



The next step would involve getting a uniform. There are many ways one can a jujitsu uniform. There are many shops available in and around Orange County. Many of these shops offer them at discount prices. Even without discount, there are affordable. Other way of getting a uniform is to order online. Running a search on Google or Yahoo! would be helpful. While choosing an online store it is advised to check for the reputation of the website. It is always reliable to depend on bigger sites. Another factor that should be taken into consideration is the time of delivery. It is good to prefer sites offering faster delivery.



Copyright (c) 2007 James Liu

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What is the best security device for females? Should they keep non-conventional weapons like pepper spray or they should be allowed to carry pistols and revolvers? Allowing females to get arms training and giving them ammunitions could be harmful for even themselves. In this situation self defense classes for women is the only answer to female safety and security.

A woman trained in martial arts can take care of her and her belongings. Also she won't require to be trained for long time as she can practice the steps taught in her home. A few hours practice in a week is enough to revise the skills and lessons taught in the self defense class. The greatest advantage of martial arts training is that she would get the confidence to manage the situation on her own.

There are organizations that provide training in ancient fighting art free of cost. Concerned about female safety, these organizations call experts to train people who feel weak both from body and mind. Everyone has some hidden powers that one needs to recognize. Unsocial elements take advantage of the people's ignorance about their strength. When you know that you can beat even a stronger person with bare hands and feet, you would get the confidence to go out without any fear.

Self Defense Classes For Womenoffer real help to females as learning the art of defending yourself is the only way to lead a stress free life. You can't carry pistol everywhere but there is a danger to your personal liberty everywhere you go. For instance you can be attacked by a drunken friend or a distant relative could try taking advantage of your weak body. You have more fear at home and in neighborhood than in public places.

Self defense classes for women are taken by experts, who have earned a name and fame in martial arts practice. You would be taught how to defend yourself without hurting others and how to hit others without providing them a moment to hit back. The safety training would make you complete.

Since the self defense classes for women are free, you should take advantage of it and also inspires others to join the classes. After taking a few classes, you would feel positive change in your physical power and mental strength. Since you can practice the lessons at home, you need to attend the classes for long.

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Bullying has been a problem for children since the beginning of time and certainly since schools were invented. No one wants their child to be bullied. However the reality is that at someone most children will be bullied in some way or another. The sad truth is that you won't always know about it or be able to prevent it.

So how can you best prepare your child to defend themselves? Of course in the reverse you also do not want your child to be a bully themselves or to inflict a serious injury on another child landing both them and you in serious trouble. This means that while there are many martial arts or fighting systems that can be effective for adults they are not always the best for children who may not be able to control themselves or know when they need to stop short of doing serious damage to their attacker.

Tae Kwon Do and many styles of karate have been popular with kids and teenagers however perhaps the best martial art that should be taught to kids for self defense is Judo. There are several reasons for this. Firstly Judo is designed without an emphasis on size and strength and is actually perfectly formulated for use against a larger opponent by using their weight and force against them. This is done primarily through a series of throws and joint manipulation techniques.

Secondly Judo is ideal for children to use against bullies or in a school environment as the holds and locks that are taught are created not to inflict damage on an opponent but to control them. This way your child can take down a larger opponent and keep them restrained until either they have cooled off and given up or a teacher comes to the rescue. Judo is also great for kids as it is one of the few traditional martial arts that remains that maintains it's teachings on principals and virtues. These include honesty, loyalty, friendship, work ethic and a respect for others and their elders.

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Due to the political situation, Israel did not have the luxury of six-month boot camp for its young soldiers, who were literally conscripted and sent to fight. Because of this situation, the Israeli military needed an effective hand to hand combat system that could be learned very quickly, was easy to retain, and very effective. This was the birth of Krav Maga in Israel in the military setting. It became the official combative training for all military personnel, Israeli police and security forces. Since then it has been studied, tested, improved and developed extensively so that now these techniques are applied in areas such as law enforcement, elite military units, VIP protection and civilian self defense programs for men, women and children. Law enforcement agencies such as the FBI, CIA, ATF and police departments all over the world use Krav Maga as their self defense system of choice.

The technique is based on mind and mental force no matter what physical strength you have and is one of the few fighting styles in the world which adapts to the student rather than expecting the student to adapt to it, teaching students to build on their natural reflexes. Krav Maga are teaches the student personal awareness, confidence, self-control, movement and because physical fitness is closely interwoven into the system, the workout includes a number of cardiovascular and strength building exercises as well as stretching to increase flexibility, it is also an excellent way to get and stay fit.

For these reasons, Krav Maga is the fastest growing self defense system in the world. Students understand that very quickly they can be at a level where they are ready to protect themselves from various real life situations, as opposed to other martial arts where you need years of training and experience to even become somewhat effective.

MMA Growing Popularity of MMA in Mercerville NJ MMA LIFE SHOP

With the increasing popularity of Mixed Martial Arts, more and more traditional martial artists are now looking to further develop their skills to allow them to compete on this new, dynamic stage. There are, however, a number of areas to address before undertaking this 'test'. For those who want to get expertise in this combat sport is good to learn MMA in Mercerville, NJ.

Depending on the base style of a traditional martial art practitioner, there are numbers of problems they will face when transferring in to MMA. For the sake of this article, I will address the three most important issues, 1 for each area of a fight - while standing, in the clinch and on the ground.

Firstly, while standing, most martial artists can't utilize their full range of techniques without getting taken to the ground. The most common takedowns in MMA competition game are routed in Freestyle and Folkstyle Wrestling - mainly the Double Leg Takedown. The stance in most traditional martial arts is not appropriate for defense of a Double, and therefore most MMA participants would be able to control the range and pace of a fight, forcing a competent stand-up fighter on to his back.

Secondly, within the clinch the lack of a Gi or traditional uniform limits the use of takedowns common in traditional martial arts. The change in suitable gripping techniques and tips can change a well-rehearsed and previously competent throw in to a disastrous situation for the initiator. Often a TMA participant will 'give his back up' when turning in for a hip throw, or end up taking shots while trying to control a sweaty, slippery opponent.

Finally, we will have a look at what happens once the fight gets to the floor. Traditionally, MMA fighters have trained their groundwork in the same way as their stand-up - seemingly endless repetitions of technique against an unresisting opponent. Although repetition is vital, it cannot be used alone as a training method. Of course, with the emergence of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in MMA in Mercerville, NJ, and its use of live sparring, MMA fighters spend hours every week perfecting their timing, positioning and technique against fully resisting opponents.

Hence, for anyone from a single art discipline looking to move in to MMA in Mercerville, NJ, I suggest a 3 pronged approach to their training: - Try to adjust the fighting stance to make it easier to sprawl. - Always work on takedowns from the clinch based on Greco-Roman Wrestling grips/positions. - Don't forget to spend as much time as possible rolling with experienced grapplers.

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Best types of fitness clothes

Workout form fitting compression shorts and muscle shirts are tight (hence the "compression") spandex shorts are usually worn in the gym, at the beach or as a base layer under outer exercise clothes. Compression V tapered workout clothes do a couple of things. First they will make you look awesome! They also keep muscles warm, and dry so you don't get muscle cramps or strains plus prevent chaffing. Form fit V-Tapered compression muscle shirts look great dressed up in the club, under a sport jacket. Every guy should own one even two-muscle shirts.

Exercise pants, come in a huge variety of styles, sizes and colors these days. For working out in the gym, classic Mens gym baggies with pockets are perfect for bodybuilders, they're usually the best choice. If you want something with a slimmer fit in the seat, hip and legs you'll probably want workout flex jogging pants made from a polyester blend with a slight stretch. Perfect for allowing you full range of motion when you train. Also, Karate pants in solids and stripes also make the perfect addition to any fitness wear wardrobe. The flare cut leg offers today's nice neat look, great for short and tall guys.

Workout Shirts for bodybuilders aren't just regular cotton sweatshirts. They offer a generous V tapered cut for Bodybuilders, weightlifters, power lifters and professional athletes. Made of cotton with some other synthetic blends, workout shirts are designed to maximize your Physique with a V Tapered mens workout shirt that accentuates your back and shoulder muscles while minimizing your waistline. Many workout shirts have sections of more porous, jersey-like weaves to keep the air moving in sweaty places like the underarms.

Men's sweatshirts are good for staying warm and dry before, during and after your workouts. Top features you must have in men's sweatshirts include their exclusive designed iPod pocket with secure Velcro closure. Imagine listening to your iPod or MP3 player while you workout without messy wires, no more arm bands cutting off your circulation while you're training pumping iron at the gym, or running on the treadmill. Never skip a beat or drop your iPod, MP3 player again. Just pop in your earbuds and crank up your favorite tunes while you muscle up in style! This iPod workout sweat shirt is available in 4 great colors. Physique Bodyware's new exclusive designed iPod workout big top muscle shirt will help you train longer & harder! The best mens sweatshirts for bodybuilders or weightlifters feature the exclusive self closing iPod pocket that can hold most iPods, MP3 players, keys, gym ID and money, all while you exercise. Now you can hit the gym!

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I first came across this thing, my art is the best martial arts, a couple of days after I began studying Chinese Kenpo. The school was preparing for a tournament, people were training, excitement was in the air, and I happened to hear two competitors talking in the changing room. "We'll win because ours is the best martial art."

Well, that was nice to know, because I certainly didn't want to discover, some year, that I had been studying an inferior brand X. So I threw myself into learning the kata and techniques, and I practiced kumite till it poured out of my ears. Odd thing, though, our school never really did win all the tournaments.

Obviously, nobody else in the world knew that my art was the best martial art. Weird, that nobody would have heard this obvious truth, you know? But it just goes to show how uninformed the people of this world are.

Then, one day I ran into a person, and he claimed that the karate he knew was the best karate, and better than the art I had been learning. How interesting, to run into one of these unbelievers. We discussed the situation at length, and he got me interested, and I finally visited his school, and, it turned out that his art was better than mine!

So I started studying his brand of Karate, studied it for years and years, finally learned about everything there was to know about it, and then I knew I was the best. Then, having reached the pinnacle of success, my instructor showed me some sticky hands out of an art called wing chun kung fu. He was winning because he knew something that was better than the stuff he was teaching!

So I sought out a kung fu school, and I started learning the real stuff, I started learning the best kung fu, and martial arts, in the world! Actually, I learned a bunch of kung fu, and then I read a book. In the book this guy was talking about Tai Chi Chuan, and how the kung fu masters could do such incredible things, and it was the best, I say 'THE BEST' martial discipline in the world.

So I began learning Tai Chi Chuan, and then I learned an art called Pa Kua chang, and several other rare styles. All of them the best arts in the world, and you'd better believe it. Then, one day I was talking with a guy who had been studying as long as I had.

He said that he had thought tai chi chuan was the best, then somebody had told him about kung fu, and from there he finally went to Karate. I sort of blinked at that. He had studied the best martial arts, but he had studied them in the wrong order!

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Muromachi swords were called odachi or nodachi, and they were longer than 1 meter (they sometimes measured 120-150cm). These long katana swords, which sometimes measure almost 2 meters were used for ceremonies only. After a short peaceful period, in the middle of this interval, the fight for power started again in 1467. The whole country was involved in a constant war for over 100 years, when finally, Oda Nabunaga and Toyotomi Hideioshi succeeded to unify again and to set peace in Japan. This period is known as Senkogu (the period during which the country was on war).



The swords in this period are divided in 3 specific historical groups: 1394-1466; 1467-1554 and 1555-1595.







During the first period (1394-1466), when armies grew too, as we have already said, the number of soldiers on horseback decreased, which lead to an increasing of foot soldiers. Although tachi or odachi swords were still manufactured, the glorious period of katana swords was getting closer. Shorter swords were more easily to wear and more easily to be taken out of the scabbard. The curve (Sori) of the these swords moved to the end, being conceived to be used standing. Most of the swords had a length of 69,7-72,7 cm, and they got more narrow near the top of the sword. Towards the end of this period, almost all the swords produced are called uchigatana.



During the second period (1467-1554), when the mobility of the troops became a strategic point, the swords became shorter. Most of the swords manufactured during this period had a length of 60-65cm, and their width was almost equal to their length. This was the glory period of the katanas. This was a relatively short type of sword, which was worn attached to the belt, in the scabbard, with the cutting edge upwards. This fact permitted to the sword to be taken out of the scabbard and the strike from a single move, whereas tachi was hanging at the belt, with the cutting edge downwards. In the same time, the necessity of a continuous source of swords, determined the fact that not all the swords manufactured during this period had the high standards to which they rose during previous periods. During this period Japan exported about 100 thousands of swords to China, which was ruled by the Ming dynasty at that time.



The end of the muromachi period (1555-1595) marked the total change of the way in which the wars were conducted in Japan, by the introducing of fire arms. In 1543 the Portuguese introduced the first fire arms in Japan. Even if the first arms of this kind were very good from the point of view of the accuracy, and they needed a long recharge period, Oda Nobunaga used them for the first time successfully during the battle of Nagashino in 1573. The horse back troops of the Tadeka clan (being known during that period as an elite formation in Japan) were completely destroyed by a group of samurai, who were holding fire arms. Since that moment, horse back troops were completely useless. The battle field was used then by small troops of foot soldiers, equipped with pistols. The armors became harder and thicker to protect the bullet holder, and the swords became once again longer, harder and more solid, in order to be able to penetrate the armors.

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Martial Arts in Orange County California are something that is turning from a hobby to a lifestyle, and people are starting to notice this trend as a way to cure the aliments of the mind, as well as the body. While many people realize the physical health benefits of practicing martial arts in Orange County California the same can not be said for the benefits martial arts in Orange County California provides for the mind. While the answer is not yet clear as to why people struggle with understanding that martial arts in Orange County California is as good for the mind as it is for the body, one thing that is clear is that people will truly understand it once they give martial arts in Orange County California a try.



One benefit of martial arts in Orange County California on the mind is that it can calm your senses. Many people fail to realize the power of stretching athletically when it comes to relaxation, and revitalization. Orange County martial arts, and mixed martial arts are perfect ways to become more in touch with ones self through stretching. The body is going through the same rigors when one stretches as it would if was working out, or lifting weights, and thus the body becomes in tune to its full potential, which allows it to grow in strength, as does the mind.







Through mixed martial arts, and martial arts the mind develops a powerful skill of being able to be patient, and alert for longer periods of time. In Orange County California martial arts schools people are constantly shown the way this is done through teaching of the marital arts techniques, and principles. The more one learns about mixed martial arts, the more the mind can adapt to its surroundings. This is truly a blessing for those wanting to gain strength of mind like never before.



Another element that is affected by the martial arts training that often occurs in Orange County California is the spirit. What might be the most profound difference one will see from before, and after training, is the heart and soul of the spirit changing for the better. Martial arts works to create a quiet optimism within oneself, and to use that strength of the spirit to grow into a better person.



While martial arts can do many things for ones body, it is the mind that truly receives the biggest and most powerful benefit of them all. Once a warriors mind is trained in the teachings of martial arts, they are something better than they were before, and can offer the values and lessons to their family for a lifetime of wholeness.



Copyright (c) 2007 James Liu

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The topic of how effective traditional martial arts is in today?s world as a way of protecting oneself is still a very sensitive issue to a lot of martial artists. What is even more sensitive is the issue of how realistic and street effective is the newer styles that have come out since UFC/PRIDE have come into the picture. I am a Registered Black Belt & have nothing against the martial arts and have also studied styles such as Pankration.



I know that the techniques I have learned in the dojo should stay in the dojo because they will only work there, that also goes with styles such as the ?modern day or reality based systems? they are for sport only.I work as a bouncer/bodyguard & also teach tactical self defense. Many of my students are black belts or have trained under reality based systems & have learned the hard way that what they learned in the ring or dojo is not street effective.







Their common question is why didn?t their system work? Part of the reason is that if a rule or law is applied to a system it will subconsciously hinder you when your adrenaline takes over in combat. There are no rules in the streets your mind should not have to sensor or think can I do this to beat this person? We respond exactly the same way that we train.



There is no time to switch gears from sport to tactical. If you are training and your coach or sensei says can?t hit their or no contact to the eyes your mind will remember that and store it for future reference. Your self defense system should take into account your environment as well. Can you kick your attacker in the small space your in? Can you balance yourself while performing a technique on the icy sidewalk? If you grapple with him what if he has friends coming around, what do you do then?



Street fighting or tactical self-defense should be in the simplest form of fighting. You don?t have time to play a chess game, like you would see in a UFC match. Time is not on your side in a street confrontation nor are rules or morals. What we can learn from the UFC or mixed martial arts events when it comes to reality fighting is if it has rules of what not to do, do those things in a street fight because its got to be effective.

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History:



Though Karate is often associated with Japanese martial arts, its true origin dwells in Okinawan combat techniques and Southern Chinese martial arts. It is basically a fusion of both arts and was introduced to Japan only in 1921. During this period, Karate was simply known as "Te", or hand, as called by the Okinawans. Chinese influence is evident in the original symbol for Karate - the "Tang Hand" or ?Chinese Hand?.







There were no specified or concrete Karate styles in the early days and simply generalized as Shuri-te, Naha-te and Tomari-te, named after the three cities in which they were formed. Each city had its own methods, principles, system and traditions of Karate.



The introduction, popularization and modernization of Karate to Japan are mainly credited to Funakoshi, an Okinawan master, venerably regarded by many practitioners as ?The Father of Modern Karate?. Other prominent Karate experts in his time include Kenwa Mabuni, Miyagi Chojun, Choshin Chibana, and Motobu Choki.



Japan began introducing Karate as a subject in schools before the Second World War and soldiers in the army were often trained in the discipline. Competitions and different styles also started emerging as several universities started karate club programs during this period.



The popularization of Karate in the West has its roots in the American military occupation of Japan and Okinawa after the Second World War, and Japanese immigration to the United States.



Fundamentals of Karate:



Karate mainly stresses on volatile combat techniques such as punching, kicking, knee and elbow strikes, and open hand methods. Grappling, joint manipulations, locks, restraints, throwing, and vital point striking are also parts of this discipline.



Karate training is divided into three main sections ?



? Kihon refers to the study of basic techniques, movements and components

? Kata or 'form', a fixed sequence of moves, is a series of movements and techniques linked together by the combatative principles that the kata expresses.

? Kumite or 'sparring' evovles from well-defined kata to open attack and defense.



The Uniform ? Color of the Belt and Ranks:



The Karate uniform is white and comprised of the Kimono (shirt), Dogi or Keikogi (pants) and a belt (white or colored), a combination introduced by Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo. The color of the belt is dependant on the rank and expertise of a practitioner. In accordance with commonly held standards, white belts are for beginners, and black for the highest rank. This, howver, may differ from one organization to another. Each rank may also have subdivions of its own even if the color of the belt is similar.

Styles and Variations:



Karate styles can be broadly classified into Traditional and Full Body Karate. Traditional styles are those that developed in the early period of the 20th century and include variants such as Shotokan, Goju-ryu, Wado-ryu, Shito-ryu, Kushin-ryu, and Shindo Jinen Ryu. Full contact karate includes styles such as Kyokushin-kaikan and Kansuiryu. Many of the styles have offshoots that developed into styles of their own. Although the concepts remain universal, each representation differ from one another.

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Getting ready to take your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class can be nerve-wracking.

You may not know what you should be doing. You may wonder what it will be like once your class starts. You could be nervous that you will mess up or that you will not fit in. There are probably a ton of things going through your mind as you get ready.

To help you out, here are some things that you will want to think about and to do, so you are ready to embark on the journey of learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Get Your Body Ready You want to be physically prepared for your class. This includes doing some training, as well as hygiene and general care of your body to ensure that you are ready to focus on the class and learn. As far as hygiene goes, it is rather simple and common sense. You want to be clean. You should bathe before you go so you don't smell and so you are clean. Remember there will be physical contact. You would not like to have someone's greasy head of hair up against your face, so don't do it to someone else. Additionally, you will want to tie your hair back if it is long so it is not all over the place, getting in mouths and eyes. You also want to trim your nails. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is no place for long nails. They pose too much of an injury risk. Trim them back and keep them short.

You should be working your body to get in shape for your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training.

You do not have to be superman, but you should have some basic strength and a good level of overall fitness. You should be doing cardiovascular exercise and strength training prior to starting your classes to get your body prepared. If you are in good shape, you will find that you can remain focused and do better in class.

You also should just take care of yourself in general. This means getting enough sleep at night, not taking any drugs or drinking alcohol and eating healthy foods. You should see food as energy and not put things into your body that will drain your energy levels, make you feel sluggish or weigh you down.

At Your First Class Once you make it to the first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class you need to take everything seriously. You have to maintain focus. Respect your teacher and other students. Make sure that you follow all rules and that you are always paying attention. You should never goof around or overlook rules. This can lead to injuries and could possible result in your being expelled from the class.

You can't have a huge ego when it comes to learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

You need to leave your ego at home and be obedient, willing to learn and submissive to your instructor. You have to recognize that you do not know as much as the instructor, so it is in your best interest to pay attention and listen to him.

You will get the most from your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class when you listen carefully, practice and ask questions. If you don't understand something then you need to ask. One of the biggest mistakes new student make is keeping their questions to themselves. You want to have proper form and to perform moves correctly, but you can't learn if you don't ask questions. Do not be afraid because instructors like to see students engaged in the lessons and they do not mind answering questions.

Your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class should be a fun experience. It is a hobby, after all. You want to enjoy it and to embrace the new skills that you are learning. If you look it as a hobby and as something fun then you should have no trouble doing a great job in class.

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Mixed Martial Arts is a sort of combat sport that involves numbers of techniques used in martial arts. This helps people improve their different internal and external skills while at the same time also works great in providing them with an extra edge in enhancing their fight-readiness, overall fitness and defense tactics. These days MMA in NJ has become a hot topic to consider in different parts of the United States. We can say that today more and more are coming forward to have a look at different effective techniques of mixed martial arts.

In this combat sport, a martial artist is allowed to compete against his/her opponent. MMA that is primarily known for having different striking movements also includes grappling. Put simply, it a combination of different skills. For instance, martial artists involved in the practice of kung fu and karate throw their opponents; Sambo and Judo on the other hand include punches and kicks.

Not from today but from the earlier times combative sports have been serving many combatants who want to fight each other. Artists involved in the practice of mixed martial arts get an opportunity to go through different techniques and skills found in Muay, grappling, wrestling, boxing and kickboxing. MMA in NJ has now earned an astronomical popularity amongst those artists who want to learn distinct styles of combat through a single art.

Artists engaged in this combat definitely get benefited from numbers of amazing advantages. These combatants soon notice a drastic development in the skills of well rounded form of attack. Most of the wresters and boxers are showing their great interest in learning effective techniques used in MMA in NJ. This form of sport has now proved to be a boon for those who have a keen desire of developing their skills in different aspects of unarmed combat. They also help artists strengthen different parts of their body.

MMA "LEGALIZED.

The high low and low high fighting strategy is an effective self-defense, MMA and martial arts strategy for defeating your opponent or attacker. What is this street fighting effective tactic and what are the advantages and disadvantages of incorporating it for self-defense and martial sports?

What Is The High-Low Low-High Fighting Strategy?

The High-Low Low-High fighting strategy as it pertains to martial arts, street fighting, self-defense and other martial arts sports and martial arts activities is a method in which the fighter attempts to confuse his/her opponent or attacker with attacking combination in which the target areas on the attacker or opponent vary with each single attacking technique from a high target on your opponent or attacker to a low target on your opponent or attacker or from a low target on your attacker to a high target on your attacker.

That Was Long. Can You Give Some Examples of The High-Low Low-High Fighting Strategy?

Of course. Assuming you know what these techniques are, here are some high low or low high combinations. For the purpose of this article we will stick with two attacking technique combinations, though multiple attacking techniques are recommended during a life-threatening event.

Warning: These are general attacking combinations. Some attacking techniques may be illegal in martial arts sporting events. These attacking techniques should only be practiced under the guidance of a qualified martial arts or self-defense instructor:

Front jab to the head - rear-hand body punch to the solar plexus

Front kick to the knee - backfist to the nose

Finger jab to the eye - front roundhouse kick to the groin

Hook kick sweep to the ankle - knife-hand strike to the back of the neck

Getting the idea now? Remember to see my warning above.

What Are The Advantages of The High-Low Low-High Fighting Strategy?

Mma fighters, and martial arts sports practitioners including boxers know the advantages to this classical fighting strategy.

Flexibility - This fighting strategy works with weapons or hand to hand. Even hand to weapon or weapon to hand.

Surprise - Especially if you're in a street fight or self-defense situation and your attacker has not ever seen your fighting style, this could end the street fight or self-defense situation very quickly

Intermediate Use - This fighting strategy does not require advanced training. Once the student has gained knowledge of attacking techniques, this strategy can be added to his/her repertoire

Simple Techniques - The attacking techniques don't have to be flashy or complicated. It's the combination of the attacking techniques that are designed to confuse your opponent or attacker into moving his/her arms out of a defensive position.

What are The Disadvantages of The High-Low Low-High Fighting Strategy?

The pattern can be ingrained! - I'm guilty of ingraining this in one of my own students many years ago. We were sparring when I realized the high-low and low-high strategy was in almost every attacking combination he initiated. Caution is advised to both martial art instructors and students.

The pattern can be recognized by your opponent - In a street fight or a self-defense situation this won't be a problem, but if you're an mma fighter or other martial arts sports competitor, your opponents have time to study your fighting style. Even videos may have been made of you while you're competing!

Conclusion

There are several factors to determine how to incorporate this fighting strategy into your martial arts or martial arts sports training. At the very least practice it until you're less likely to be taken in by it whether you're training for self-defense or sporting competition.

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Number of marks is available in the market for sale of punch bags. If you're going to get yourself a punch bag, there are various things that you need to know before you dive into the actual purchase. In case you do not have a convenient place to hang a punch bag, to go into permanent housing. Standing bag is also useful if you plan to begin practice without a stamp.

The bag material also calls for equal consideration of other factors. Today the bags come in a variety of materials such as canvas, leather and vinyl. Although it comes at a premium, leather bags are the best choice if you can afford them. Fill material is also different than cotton, hay or water. It should also be taken into account when choosing bag.

Weight of the bag is probably the most important criteria for deciding. If you are just starting to practice, bag weighing 60-75 pounds will be enough. If you need to improve his speed and power punch, go for 100 bag.

Manufacturers are offering different types of punch bags number. One of the oldest and most trusted brands available to Everlast. They have been around for almost a century now, and many innovative products were launched. They are built with quality and serve the educational needs of diversity.

The title is another top brand that offers a wide range of boxing training. Different types of bags are sold under this brand.

TKO also trusted name in boxing gear. Leather, canvas and vinyl bags are available under the umbrella of TKO.

Other well-known trademarks of BBE, c., the KD Elite, Valor, Lonsdale, Fitness quest and Golds Gym.

Regardless of the brand of choice, with due regard must be given a bag to your needs, both physical and educational needs of fitness. When the bags are intended to better punches, while others will make your kicks. Certain design bags to help teach only Jabs and others to help you perfect Uppercut. Bags are available with electronic controls body shape to give you a sense of real time combat. Which bag and the brand you choose should depend on what you want to punch the bag. If you would like to spend time practicing field it is advisable to get a free standing punch bag inflatable type. It will be as mobile as you are.

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Kenpo Karate is a form of martial arts, the origin of which can be traced back in Japan and China. It is believed that this art form was inspired from animals and originated in the 16th century. In those days, the animals were observed by the martial artists and some of their defense strategies, and their fighting tactics were incorporated in the traditional Japanese and Chinese martial arts. Literally, Kenpo means "law of the fist" and it is fundamentally a system of self-defense not an attacking art or a sport. Following is an overview of the techniques used in Kenpo Karate.

Edmund Parker, the late Senior Grandmaster, introduced Kenpo in America and is regarded as the father of American Kenpo Karate. The martial art was modified by him and many concepts; many principles, new techniques and theories were included by him in this martial art form. When the martial art was first embraced by him, he gave named it Chinese Kenpo, but later he started referring to it as American Kenpo Karate, after bringing his own variations in martial art. However, the basic techniques of Chinese and American Kenpo are the same. In fact, he always suggested and motivated his students to develop new techniques that can be tailored to individual requirements and needs.

Dynamic Kenpo Karate

The techniques in Kenpo are absolutely based on swift body movements. No weapon is used by martial artists who practice Kenpo. Simply, the body is used in rapid-fire succession as a means of overwhelming the opponent. The establishment of modern Kenpo is formed by hand strikes and kicks. Apart from this, blocking, locking, punching, throwing, etc., are also emphasized in this martial art form. Basically, these techniques are a series of body moves performed in sequence that is already planned, so that a possible defense for any particular scenario can be illustrated.

There three stages or levels in which Kenpo Karate is taught, which are the Ideal stage, Formulation stage, and the What-If stage. Those who wish to learn Kenpo get started with the basic White belt, then; they gradually cross different degrees until they progress to Black belt. Kenpo practitioners who make it to Black belt are regarded as grandmasters of Kenpo. The belt systems of different organizations tend to vary, but generally, they comprise of the following belt colors:

- White

- Yellow

- Orange

- Purple

- Blue

- Green

- Brown

- Black

In order to become natural and automatic at Kenpo, the basic techniques have to be learned. The movements must be concise, effective and quick. Certainly, a lot of consistency, passion and practice are needed to accomplish this. As Kenpo practitioners obtain expertise and progress, they can make use of the various basic techniques for self-defense against an opponent when the attacking strategy is not known. This makes Kenpo an ideal martial art for self-defense.

The techniques included in Kenpo are not as difficult to carry out as those in martial arts like Kung Fu. Kenpo Karate is focused, hard fight and simple with brutal sparring or striking and speed rather than physical strength, thus people of every experience or body type can learn and perform it.

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UFC 92 betting is heating up, with the exciting card just over a week away. The event features some of the most anticipated clashes in the history of MMA betting, including Forrest Griffin/Rashad Evans, Frank Mir/Antonio Rodriguo "Minotauro" Nogueira and Wanderlei Silva/Quinton "Rampage" Jackson. The matchups look extremely even on paper, creating some exciting UFC 92 odds. But equally important to the buzz is the fact that UFC 92 showcases some of MMA's most terrifying fighters.



What makes for a truly terrifying fighter? Well, in theory, every professional MMA fighter could make UFC betting fans soil themselves. But who would really make you cry and beg for mercy if he was chasing you down an alley at breakneck speed?







Sure, BJ Penn could make your life hell in the ring. But the thought of the laid back Hawaiian hunting you down isn't that scary by MMA standards. How would you feel if Fedor Emelianenko was tearing down a staircase toward you...after you poked him in the junk with a cattle prod? Let's look at UFC's top five most terrifying fighters.



5. Thiago Alves



He may not be a household name yet, but MMA betting fans should check back with us this time next year. He's a vicious combination of speed and power, and his compact build makes him look and move like an angry pit bull. Guess what? I just looked him up on and his actual nickname is the Pit Bull. I didn't even know that. If Georges St.-Pierre gets past BJ Penn this January - and he will - Thiago Alves is next in line for a UFC welterweight title shot. I'd be sweating if I was GSP.



4. Quinton "Rampage" Jackson



Yes, he's a funny, likable guy. Yes, he's lost a bit of luster after losing to Forrest Griffin. But the man wears steel chains around his neck and howls like a dog before and after every fight. And reckless driving is scary, isn't it? Plus his nickname is Rampage! And it's not one of those crappy, forced nicknames; it's as much his name as Quinton is. If you don't shake like a leaf at the thought of Rampage coming at you, chains jingling, you have nerves of steel. I?d be afraid to bet against him in the Silva vs Jackson line.



3. Forrest Griffin



He's an affable, goofy, humble guy who listens to the Dropkick Murphys. Doesn't sound too scary, does it? But there are few things scarier than guys who don't feel Griffin is that guy, a living Rocky Balboa with a granite chin. Picture taking him on in a bar fight. How would you stop him? He'd stumble toward you screaming "C'mon...I'll...f-fight ANYBODY!", laughing as you break bottle after bottle over his head. Lots of online sports betting players may take Rashad Evans in the Griffin vs Evans line after his stunning win over the formerly scary Chuck Liddell, but can Evans really knock the indestructible Griffin out?



2. Anderson Silva



"What?" you say. "Yeah, he'?s the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world, lanky build? That feminine voice? Can you really call him scary?" Well, he may not fit MMA betting fans' classical definition of scary. But he's terrifying because he's so unpredictable. How many drunken frat guys with popped collars would take one look at Silva and think they could mop the floor with him? In mere seconds, pure terror would sink in as the Spider bludgeoned them with knees and spinning backfists. The element of surprise makes Silva a terrifying specimen.



1. Brock Lesnar



If this guy doesn't give you nightmares, you're lying. It doesn't matter that he's still raw. In fact, that makes him even scarier. He's more animal than human, overpowering opponents with his hulking, 265-pound-plus frame. Lesnar, the reigning UFC Heavyweight Champion, takes the prize of most terrifying fighter because he even terrifies fellow UFC fighters. Forget his win over Randy Couture for a second. Lesnar established his legend among online sports betting fans before that, when he speared poor Heath Herring off the opening bell of their fight. He'd scare a brick wall if he charged at it.



Honorable mentions:

- Georges St. Pierre - he's a monster, but he's just so damn nice.

- Fedor Emelianenko - as scary as anyone, but we're sticking to UFC employees.

- Demian Maia - not scary at first glance, but a human snake who breaks limbs for fun.

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MMAWeekly is reporting that Anderson Silva (19-4-0) was planning to arrive in Cincinnati, Ohio earlier this week, but has yet to even leave Brazil. He?s apparently experiencing work visa problem due to a Brazilian holiday that had government offices closed. Instead of getting his visa on Monday or earlier, he just got his work visa yesterday and plans to arrive sometime today.



No doubt there will be speculation by everyone if Silva loses his Middleweight Title to Rich Franklin (22-2-0) this Saturday. How much of an affect this will have on his mindset going into the bout will only be known by Silva himself. The ?Spider? has always been a mentally strong fighter, so this setback may not even be an issue at all.







Another fighter that experienced work visa issues recently was Hector Lombard (11-2-1) who had to be replaced by Ryo Chonan (14-7-0) in his fight against Karo Parisyan (17-4-0), so let?s be glad that Silva actually got his visa and will be in town to defend his title.

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When people think about what they would need to do if they ever had to defend themselves, punching their attacker is usually at the top of the list. Unfortunately, unless you have a lot of training and experience, you're more than likely to be hurt more than the person you're defending yourself against.

There are several reasons for this. First and foremost, most people aren't trained or experienced at throwing a punch in general, and punching a hard surface in particular. Without this training and experience, most people will instinctively try to punch their attacker in the face/head. With training and conditioning, this isn't that bad of an idea. A head strike can slow down, stun, deter, and even possibly knock out the "bad guy". Where the problem comes in is a result of not having that training and conditioning.

The main problem with a punch in general comes down to knowing how to make a tight fist and making sure your wrist is locked at the moment of impact. Bruce Lee said it best when he stated, "There are no wrists in boxing." If you've ever seen a boxer before they put their gloves on, you'll see that they have their hands and wrists taped. This isn't for show. It's to allow the boxer to hit their opponent as hard as they can without causing damage to their fists and to keep from tweaking and/or breaking their wrist if they hit their opponent wrong.

If you don't lock your wrist when you punch a surface, you run the risk of having your wrist buckle from the force of impact. This buckling can cause either temporary or permanent damage to the wrist joint due to stressing the joint beyond it's operating range. Whether the surface you're striking is hard or soft is irrelevant. The act of striking is what's relevant.

Where the hardness of the surface makes a difference is how conditioned your hands/fists are. If you haven't done any type of conditioning exercises to toughen up your fists/knuckles, then striking a hard surface has the risk of breaking your knuckles. I've done that at least once in the past myself. At one time, I could punch through 2 inches of pine boards without a problem due to the conditioning I was doing on a regular basis. How I broke my knuckle was that it had been several years since I had been doing the proper conditioning exercises and on a whim, I decided to try and break a board by punching it. Didn't work out so well for me. It took around 2 months for my hand to completely stop hurting. If I had been called upon to defend myself during that period of time, I would have been at a severe disadvantage.

With all that being said, in my opinion, for almost any self defense situation, a palm strike is usually the better option to go with. There are a lot of reasons for this. First off, you take your wrist right out of the equation. With a proper palm strike, you have no wrist involvement at all. What I mean by this is that the striking surface is the meaty portion of your hand where the bones in the forearm basically terminate at the hand. Now obviously I'm leaving out some of the finer structure of the hand/wrist/forearm out of the equation, but in a very general way, what I'm saying is accurate. There's a lot more structural integrity when hitting a surface with your palm. There's also a higher level of pain resistance and toughness involved with this type of strike.

One example that I've seen used repeatedly is the question of which would you rather do, punch a brick wall or hit it with your palm. You can more comfortably hit a target with more power using your palm over using a fist. You're also much less likely to hurt yourself, allowing you the ability to strike more times if needed. Another benefit of a palm strike is you have more options with your striking. With a punch, if your forearm and fist aren't in direct alignment with the angle of attack, you can't apply as much force behind the attack. With a palm strike, you don't have to be quite as picky.

I'm not saying that a punch should never be used. It works great against soft targets like the stomach, bladder, or kidneys. It's just that without practice, you're more likely to hurt yourself and leave yourself without the use of some of your natural weapons. With a palm strike, it's very unlikely that you're going to hurt yourself, even if you don' t have a lot of practice under your belt. You'll also have a higher level of relaxation when using a palm because of the structural dynamics of the strike. With a punch, you normally have to have your forearm, wrist, and fist tight when striking. This introduces a higher level of tension in your arm. With a palm strike, almost none of that tension exists. The only tension that's produced at the point of impact is bending your hand far enough back so you don't hit with your fingers.

One final benefit of using a palm strike over a punch again comes back to training. With little or no training, you're more likely to "pull your punch" when actually punching because you unconsciously trying to keep from hurting yourself since this isn't a normal way you use your hand. In other words, because of the lack of familiarity with punching, your sub-conscious mind is going to prevent you from apply your full force behind the strike. On the other hand, since most people have experience with hitting stuff with the palm of their hand, i.e. slapping something, pounding on something with their palm, etc., their sub-conscious knows what to expect and has a better idea of how hard an impact you can apply before you cause injury to yourself.

So if you're ever in a situation where you have to defend yourself, you are better off using a palm strike instead of a punch. Let's just hope that you're never called upon to make that kind of choice.

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Yesterday 5thRound reported that Matt ?The Hammer? Hamill would be forced to postpone his rematch with Michael ?The Count? Bisping due to a knee injury he suffered prior to UFC 75. Although true, the injury according to Hamill was a ?a relatively minor arthroscopic procedure?. Hamill did confirm that the UFC offered a November rematch, but there was no possible way his knee would heal up in time.



Hamill did go on to say on his website, ?I did tell the UFC that I would be ready by late December and would love to do it in Vegas on 12/29?. Now all we have to do is wait on a response from Michael Bisping, who also is healing up an injury he suffered on his foot while walking down to the Octagon (funny I know).







In his final comments, Hamill responded to Bisping?s post-fight comments that he made during Joe Rogan?s interview with, ?I want this rematch to happen ASAP and even though standing and banging worked out pretty well for me, with my knee 100%, I can take Bisping's advice, and go back to wrestling!?



Tim?s Take: Looks like we have another huge fight lined up for December 29th, Bisping will obviously not back down to protect his ego and image, while Hamill is saying that he?ll be ready to go as well. The only issue is that the December 29th card is already stacked as it is with Wanderlei Silva?s return to the Octagon, as well as Matt Serra vs. Matt Hughes for the Welterweight title. We might have to wait until the New Year, unless Dana White, Joe Silva and company really want to give the fans an extra treat.

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Knockout Full Contact Karate is a very broad definition that defines a knockout as a win and light contact sparring where a knockout is considered a foul. It is also used to define different styles and schools of Karate that utilize the full contact methodology in their teachings. There are several different formats for this sport. Each format has a different history and was developed in different places as well as at different times.



Some of these styles were independently developed, however, others were developed from full contact systems, light contact system or a hybrid of both. There is no one governing organization that organizes and controls all the different formats used. The rules can change substantially between not only independent organizations but with different promoters. Some organizations remain loyal to a specific set of rules. Some go back and forth between several different rule formats.







There have even been cases where the Tournament Rules would arbitrarily switch right in the middle of a competition, and right between rounds within the same fight. Full Contact Point Karate is one popular style that is used a lot. With this style if you knock your opponent out you still win the match and you will not be disqualified. Points are aggregated for clean hits to certain parts of the opponents body. If there is no knockdown or knockout, the bout is purely judged by points accumulated during the match.



Although Martial Arts Protective Gear is commonly worn, all punches and kicks are full contact. This form of Martial Arts is mainly practiced in North America, however, it is also practiced in Europe just less frequently. Taekwondo also uses a similar competition format. Taekwondo places a large emphasis on kicking. American Full Contact Karate is another variation used which started in the 1960's and 1970's. It borrowed a lot of the methodologies and rules from Western Boxing. There are no round breaks offered with this style in the bout.

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In my last article for this site, I told some of my story with the early days of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training, and how I quit after a "double whammy" of life changers: surgery and my wife. As I fell away from the sport and out of shape, I always had regrets about not picking it back up again. But I was too busy doing things with my kids, specifically my son.

Right before my son Chris started 4th grade, I started him in his own Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training. My son has my build and general athletic ability (or lack thereof), so I knew that he could learn this style and enjoy it, because I had years before. I am very proud he took to it right away, and to this day, loves his training.

As I sat on the sidelines, the whisper to get back out there grew into a full-throated scream. For over a year, however, I was blocked by a couple of nagging concerns. I was scared of the pain, and getting injured. I knew how out of shape I was, carrying 60 pounds more than I was the last time I trained, on a back and knees that were fifteen years older. Unless I was really smart about how I paced myself, the odds were incredibly good that I'd overdo it and get hurt.

Worse, though, is that I was scared of looking bad in front of my son, and what I saw in the mirror. I knew what I used to be able to do - I wasn't what you'd call "good", but I was certainly competent on the mat. I was going from a decent grappler to the worst guy in the room. Could I live with myself when I got winded during a simple warmup? When I couldn't do a backward roll anymore? When I'd try to pass a guard or bridge my opponent in an escape, and be betrayed by a body that couldn't do what my brain was telling it to do?

Fortunately, I have managed to be smart so far in dealing with my first fear. My master instructor was incredibly kind about finding the right pace for me, and finding alternatives for certain techniques so that I wouldn't be left out. When we'd spar in grappling sessions, I know that this isn't a competition; it's a learning experience. I have no problem tapping out when I'm in a submission hold, or even just when I'm stuck and too tired to defend myself anymore.

My girth has produced a couple of unexpected bonuses. I remember one class where we worked on a body scissors technique from the back mount, and a couple of submission attempts that may work when in a body scissors. I had enough of a waistline such that nobody else in the class could get the body scissors applied on me. When grappling, my opponents have a difficult time keeping me in a closed guard, so I can focus more on open-guard pass techniques.

The bruised ego has been slightly tougher to deal with. Sure, I get a burst of pride when I can do a couple more pushups than ever before, or I can break out the box of clothes that used to be too small. But that reserve is quickly emptied on a regular basis on the mat.

Duck walks, stepping in low to an opponent for a single- or double-leg takedown shot? Forget about it.

Shrimp away quickly to stifle an opponent's guard pass? Not with a butt & gut this big.

Tap whom I don't have a 100-pound weight advantage? Not yet. Not even close.

I keep trying to find a bright side. My submission defense is getting better, especially against chokes. I'm pretty good at working from bottom mount into bottom half-guard, and from blocking an opponent's pass from side mount to top mount. But all of these bright sides are because I'm not yet good enough, and especially athletic, to stay with an opponent with better conditioning and a sporting background.

The damage done by my reality check is the only drawback. The decision to start Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training again has changed my life in so many positive ways. In 2011, I lost 35 pounds, and gained a great deal of endurance. I've gone from 20 pushups to 40; 20 crunches to 45; 30 leg raises to 50. I no longer have to take it easy in the first class segment because I'm completely spent from the warmup.

I went from being a 41-year-old couch potato to a 42-year-old who can hang through 30 minutes of grappling in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class. For the first time in many years, I'm excited to see what the next year might bring. If you've ever been hesitant about trying Brazilian Jiu Jitsu or another martial art, do it. I don't care if you're out of shape. I don't care if you've never tried one before. If I can do it, you can do it.

You, too, can change your life.

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The two most common martial arts practiced in North America are karate and tae kwon do. Many wonder what the difference between these two martial arts is. This is especially the case for those who are just starting to look around for a martial arts studio. After all, most practitioners in both karate and tae kwon do seem to wear the same type of white gi uniforms with various colored belts.



Modern traditional karate was developed in the islands of Okinawa in Japan after some influences from Chinese martial arts. There are actually different styles of karate but they are all commonly considered as Japanese martial arts today. The colored belt system was developed to show the various ranks of karate practitioners with white depicting novices and black belts (with various degrees) representing instructor levels and higher. There is a whole range of other different colors in between. Modern tae kwon do was developed in Korea after much influence from Japanese karate during the occupation by Japan. Indeed, tae kwon do is sometimes referred to as Korean karate. The Koreans adopted similar white uniforms along with a colored belt ranking system for tae kwon do. Today, there are two main styles of tae kwon do, one under the International Tae Kwon Do Federation and the other under the World Tae Kwon Do Federation. Many tae kwon do schools have added a black lining to their white uniforms for black belt levels. A V-neck top is often seen in schools affiliated with the World Tae Kwon Do Federation. There are also older Korean styles including tang soo do and moo duk kwan. Some of the more Americanized karate and tae kwon do schools also use uniforms with other colors such as red, black and blue in addition to the traditional white.







It can be generalized that in karate, one would use their arms or hands for 60% of the time for strikes or blocks while the use of legs for kicking will be about 40%. This breakdown is seen in the many forms or katas of karate which are set routines which simulate fighting against imaginary opponents using martial arts techniques. The forms from tae kwon do would have the opposite percentage breakdown with 40% hands and 60% legs. In tae kwon do, there is also more emphasis on higher kicks to the head level than in karate. Tae kwon do practitioners also utilize more jumping or flying kicks where one is airborne while executing kicking techniques. The tae kwon do forms or patterns are generally a bit shorter and less complex than the karate forms. Some tae kwon do schools have been known to use the odd karate form in its curriculum as well.



In North America as well as other parts of the world, there are separate traditional competitions for karate and tae kwon do. However, the open martial arts tournaments in North America often have competitors from both karate and tae kwon do competing together. Some of the larger open martial arts competition events will have separate forms divisions for Japanese karate and Korean tae kwon do competitors but the fighting or sparring divisions will usually be combined. Many black belts in tae kwon do end up studying karate as well and the opposite has been true too. Tae kwon do has received more publicity in recent years since its introduction as an Olympic sport. The style and rules used for the Olympic version of tae kwon do fighting comes from the World Tae Kwon Do Federation (WTF). Both karate and tae kwon do are considered as hard style martial arts in North America today (as opposed to soft styles such as the many versions of Chinese kung fu).

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Quinton ?Rampage? Jackson left no doubt about who?s the undisputed Light Heavyweight champion of the world. He out-pointed ?Dangerous? Dan Henderson who himself looked very impressive, but just couldn?t get the fight to go his way. I do believe that Henderson will stay at 205 pounds and be a top 5 fighter, and will eventually get a rematch with Jackson. The aforementioned Jackson must now wait for the winner for the Mauricio ?Shogun? Rua fight against Forrest Griffin. If ?Shogun? is victorious as many of us expect, then he?ll be the no-brainer #1 contender for the undisputed champion.



Forrest Griffin will definitely prove to be a game opponent for Rua, and with the recent unexpected outcomes in MMA you never really know what will happen. Assuming though that Rua gets past Griffin, the potential #1 vs. #2 Light Heavyweight bout should take place at the first event of the New Year if both fighters are physically cleared to fight. These are dangerous times for Jackson though, as his new found popularity is going to be a distraction as his trainer Juanito has already mentioned that MTV and several other networks are pitching reality shows at the flamboyant champ.







As we saw with Chuck Liddell, when you have distractions it?s easy to lose focus and forget about what got you to the show. Liddell?s bout on a morning show where he looked like he was drunk was followed up by rumors of excessive partying in the week leading up to his rematch with ?Rampage? Jackson may have cost him his belt. Nobody is exempt from having the lights be a little too bright for their own good.



The only thing that is going to be clear though is that fans are foaming at the mouth to see a rematch between Brazil?s Mauricio ?Shogun? Rua and Quinton ?Rampage? Jackson. There?s no limit to the amount of hype that would be surrounding that fight, the first hurdle has already past, no we?ll have to wait until September 22nd on Pay-Per-View from the Honda Center in Anaheim, California.

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Most people when they think of Martial Arts Styles, think of karate versus kung fu, or taekwondo versus Chinese Kenpo. What this article is concerned with, however, are the types of training one goes through to learn martial arts. There three specific routes one can travel down.

The first method is the traditional martial arts training method. This is going to consist of learning classical karate kata, Kung Fu patterns, and that type of thing. This is a very intense type of martial arts learning procedure.

One has to do the kata endlessly, paying close attention to the angle of the foot, the bend of the wrist, making sure the karate stances stay low, and that type of thing. Some students hold this in disrespect, calling for more reality. The truth, however, is that when it comes to martial arts styles of training, it takes a lot of mental focus to do the classical martial arts route.

The next in martial arts styles of training has to do with bunkai, or self defense movements. This is a very tight self defense routine, and it works very well. One will find this type of training used very efficiently in such arts as Judo, Jujitsu, Aikido, and that type of art.

Of course, how the sensei slants his teaching is going to have a large effect. The Jujitsu practitioner may tend to be more UFC or MMA slanted, and make his techniques efficient for the street. An Aikido instructor will be looking for the spiritual benefits.

The last in these martial arts styles of training is to focus on nothing but freestyle. This is the most street ready type of training, and you will find it in Jeet Kune Do, boxing, and other eclectic martial arts. There is a drawback, however, to this type of training.

People who train for combat tend to become trigger happy, a little too ready to use what they have learned. This can cause more confrontation than it stops. The best option would be to select a method that blends its hard fighting training with forms and applications.

Forms, Self Defense Movements, and Freestyle. These are the three corners of the martial arts that will keep the student efficiently learning. When it comes to martial arts styles of training one should search for a balanced style of learning, for this will keep one safe on the street even as it enhances the spirit.

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So what does it take to make it in the Mixed Martial Arts? Do you really have to be super human? The subject is one of debate, but you do have to train real hard and intensely. Training and eventually competing in the MMA will take much more than just building muscle. If that's all it took, I could just write an article about Body Building and call it a day since I have a background in Muscle Building.



But there's much more to it than this. Here are some things you should consider incorporating into any successful MMA Strength Training Routine.







1.) 4 Basic Strength Lifts - The 4 main strength movements are the Squat, Bench Press, Military Press and Power Clean. These lifts will really tax your cardiovascular system and give you strength at the same time. Just these movements when done consistently over a period of months and years will build solid strength and muscle mass.



Train hard for 6 weeks or so then take a week off. Stick to the basics in the gym. Sure the dumbbells and cables are useful and can cut you up, but the 4 exercises above are bar none the best for adding solid mass to your structure.



2.) Aerobics - Lots of people think cardio is for sissies and associate it with ballet or skinny men walking around in tights but doing aerobics before your lifts will actually pump your muscles up and allow them to work more efficiently without prematurely fatiguing. 20 minutes is all it should take before you hit the weights. Plus in the middle of an intense MMA Fight you'll some some cardio conditioning to get you through.



3.) Low Body Fat - You want to make sure your diet consists of a lot of Tuna, Fish, Eggs and high protein. Also buy some Whey Protein like Optimum 100% Whey. If you are trying to gain strength and mass eat all you want, just make sure that what you do eat is high in protein. If you are overweight and trying to shed some pounds, eat more frequently like 4-6 times per day but smaller meals and do more cardio.



4.) If you do plan on joining a Gym, make sure you join one with Boxing Equipment if you are doing MMA Strength Training. A lot of health clubs don't offer this so make sure you take a tour before you sign on the dotted line.



5.) Keep a basic weight set at your house. This way you can still get a good chest pump even if you're too busy to go to the gym or don't wanna be around anyone. I've seen friends get extremely strong that never had a gym membership, just by using a $200.00 weight set they bought and used in their backyard or garage. So even if you join a club I'd also advise you own your own personal weight set.



Becoming an MMA Fighter requires you to be a Boxer, a Kick Boxer, a Wrestler as well as an expert in Judo. Not only do you have to be strong, you have to be quick and have endurance all at the same time. Also a tip I learned was if you don't have a punching bag available, some people will jerry rig duct tape around towels around a vertical rafter and use that. But nowdays you can buy punching bags that support themselves without having to hang them from the ceiling like the old days.

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Standing Punching Bags:

If you plan on kickboxing, definitely purchase a standing punching bag since standing bags start much lower to the ground and are often height adjustable. The base is normally filled with water or sand. Sand will give you a more sturdy base and will rock less when hit. Some say stable is better but a little rocking is more realistic since your opponent moves with your punch. To incorporate the fluidity into the stand, water is much better. A water filled standing base is around 300lbs. One of the big disadvantages to standing bags is they are normally of lesser quality and are more likely to wear and tear.



The Hanging Bag:

If you are not into kickboxing and you are after a more durable, more professional punching bag, the hanging punching bag is best. Mounted to the wall or ceiling with chains allows the hanging bag to sway upon impact, better representing an actual opponent and allowing you to work on combos and footwork. Another key thing is the hanging bag will always return back to its original position while the standing bags are likely slowly slide across the floor, never returning to their original position. Please, please, please, before purchasing a hanging bag, check the weight of the bag and ensure your ceiling or alternate support can safely support it.







How much sway should there be in a Hanging Bag?

A bag should sway a little so that your don?t break your hand upon impact, but not so much that the target is constantly moving and it?s near impossible to land a punch. Sway for a hanging bag is really determined by the size of the fighter and the weight of the bag. For a 5?10 180 lb. male, a 70-80lb bag will work. This is just a rule of thumb and those who throw lighter punches should aim for 50-60lb bags while those who really wish to throw some of the harder punches can go to the 100-120 lb bags.



To keep in mind:

It is recommended that you always use some type of hand protection when working the bag. Although serious bag injuries aren?t too common, it?s pretty terrible to admit that you can?t participate in the actual fight because you broke your hand on the bag. As far as hand protection goes, it can be pro gloves for a boxer, striking/grappling gloves for those into MMA or possibly just hand/wrist wraps. Please use some type of protection though- It?s better for your bones and will result in less wear and tear on the bag. For those planning on using less hand protection, you may want to consider a lighter bag to avoid potential injuries.