Brian Felschow is an obstacle course racer and marathoner who had his start as recently as 2015. That, however, doesn’t mean he’s new to fitness.

Let’s take a peek at his training program, and also find out how he coped with a recent ankle injury (that took him out of training for 3 months).

Brian Felschow Interview

1. What do you train in and what’s your goal?

I’ve been training for both a marathon and Spartan races. For Spartan Races, I have been training for about a year and a half at this point, going back to my first one in 2015. I do have a goal of eventually running in elite heats and competing in that top tier. For marathons, I started training around November 2016, when I realized I needed to increase my cardio endurance. My end goal is actually to start running endurance events and ultra-marathons.

2. What do you do during an average training session?

My training is usually broken into 2 sessions.

Just about every weekday morning, I wake up around 4:00am and head out for a run. These are usually shorter in distance, ranging from 3 miles to 8 miles at the high end. I’ll go outside almost every day, unless it’s icy or torrential downpour, at which point I’ll aim for a treadmill and do some interval training (1 min run, 1 min jog, alternating until I feel like I’m done). I tend to follow the Hal Highdon marathon training schedule, shown below.

Visit this site for more info, or advanced training.

When I get home from work, I start a strength session. Depending on the week, I may isolate individual muscle groups and work those (back and biceps, chest and triceps, shoulders, legs). I may just opt for a total body workout each day of a week, mixing up the exercises that I do.

Either way, I focus on pyramid style reps, starting low and working my way up in weight or rep until muscle failure/inability to perform the given exercise.

Regardless of which style of strength training I choose for a week, there are usually heavy carries involved as well. I own a 50lb Wreck Bag that I will carry to my apartments fitness center and then take the long way back with it on my shoulders. Or I will do some laps of my apartment building with a 5 gallon bucket filled with 50lbs of sand.

I actually have a lot of random things in my apartment, making it easier to get some strength work in. I call it my “ghetto home gym” (see image). It includes the aforementioned Wreck Bag, 15lb dumbbells, a low weight kettlebell set, resistance bands, my bucket, a jump rope, and my pull-up bar.

On the weekends, I aim to get a longer run in on Saturdays, trails near my house if possible. I follow this up immediately with body weight training such as burpees, pull-ups, chin-ups, planks, crunches, body weight squats etc.

3. How do you make it work at this stage in life?

I’m just about 30 years old, with a solid job that is more like a career at this point. One of my top priorities happens to be my job, as I need it to take care of everything else in my life, and I would like to see myself grow in my current company/position.

Outside of work, my top priority IS my training, so I will always find a way to make time. I wake up early to get a solid run in, and I head almost immediately to the gym when I get home (a little fuel up and motivation is sometimes required though!).

The way to make it work is having a solid support network My brother and dad are also into fitness, and we constantly talk and text about what we did on a given day, even though we’re all separated by a couple hundred miles a piece.

Outside of that, it’s knowing that you will have to make sacrifices if you want to achieve your goals. I’m not going out every night, there are times when I flat out say I can’t do something. Going to bed early helps with this, because somehow the phrase “I’m in bed”/”I’m going to bed” ends a lot of questions from your friends!

4. Why did you begin training? What’s the story?

A few years back, I lived in a condo with my brother and a friend who were big into going to the gym. They eventually convinced me to start going with them. After a short amount of time, I was starting to actually see progress (first time bench pressing my own weight, let alone above that!?!). So I started to actually like working out.

Then, in November 2014, my brother and cousin ran the Spartan Stadium Race at Fenway. They had a blast and towards the next year, they were convincing me to do it. I did, and was immediately bitten by the Obstacle Course Racing (OCR), bug. I wanted to do more, earn my Trifecta, do better! So I started training. Last year I earned my Trifecta alongside my dad.

As for the marathon, I was really getting into Spartan at the end of 2016. I decided I was going to set loftier goals, but that would require more running. So why not set an early goal for 2017 of running a marathon? No real story there.

5. What were some challenges and obstacles you faced?

The only real challenge that I faced was breaking my ankle in January of this year. It flat out took me away from training for 3 months, being completely unable to bear weight on it. I’m about a month out of the cast, getting some PT time in, and getting back to training now though.

My workouts are already near the intensity before the break, just no running yet. Still a couple weeks away from that.

6. What happens in a week in your life?

My weeks are pretty straight forward. Mon – Fri I wake up at 4am, go for a run, head to work, come home and hit the gym, eat dinner, then it’s off to bed. There is a lot more that happens in that time, but it’s the basic rundown. Aside from work, the only other things that compete for my time are friends and family. Heading away for weekends can be an issue, but I am usually going to see my brother or parents who will do some training with me as well.

The trick is find and/or making time. Don’t have time to run after work? Go in the morning. Don’t have time to lift? Grab some dumbbells while you are relaxing watching TV. I forgot to mention it earlier, but every morning, as soon as I wake up, I fire out 30 burpees the second my feet touch the floor. There is always time, you just have to actively think about it.

7. Do you see yourself still training when you get to the next stage of life?

I may not be pulling 2-a-days at the next stage of my life, but I don’t see myself stopping training as a whole. My parents have always instilled in me that fitness is an important aspect. You only have 1 body, 1 life, you best take care of it. So, while I may not be training for specific things, I will at least be staying in shape.

8. What were 3 things you’ve learnt since you began training?

#1. Don’t take anything for granted

Breaking my ankle destroyed me mentally for a few days.

Training was such a big part of who I was at that point, but I wasn’t enjoying it.

Now, every time I even walk to my desk carrying a coffee, let alone get on a bike, or throw some weights around, I am taking a second to ENJOY the process. You never know when it can get taken away from you.

#2 – Rest days are vital!

Let me say that again, REST DAYS ARE VITAL!

You can’t be active every single day. You’ll burn out or get hurt. Don’t think of rest days as days you aren’t training, especially if you build them into your routine (Sundays for me).

Check out @RestDayBrags on Twitter for some rest inspiration (rest-piration?) from some top tier athletes.

#3 – Eat Healthy

I always knew how to eat healthy, but starting my training has gotten me to actually start doing it.

There is nothing worse than getting ready for a run, but feeling like garbage because you ate fast-food for dinner.

Eating right makes you feel right. I’m even meal prepping lunches every week to help limit temptations.

More About Brian Felschow

Brian Felschow manages a blog that curates obstacle racing and training advice – The Obstacle Blog. Go check it out. Please also follow him on Twitter (@BFushu).

The post The Spartan Racer & Marathoner – Brian Felschow [Interview] appeared first on Way Of Ninja.

Dash Malone travelled around Asia, trained in martial arts, and filmed a YouTube action series that parodies anime stereotypes (Ninja Moon).

While filming a stunt, he dislocated his ankle when the trail gave way unexpectedly. After that, he lost his acrobatic skills and sense of identity for a long time. But, he never gave up.

Find out how Dash overcame his injury and made his training lifestyle work — as a cosplayer, martial artist, stuntman, filmmaker, and digital nomad.

Dash Malone Interview

What do you train in? What’s your purpose?

Currently, I am doing a program where I do metabolic circuit training, HIIT workouts and strength training. I will do one of these for two weeks and then switch. I do stretching and light calisthenics to warm up beforehand.

Ultimately my training is to help express my human body through choreography and martial arts. I have been working out for many years but my workouts are very different lately.

I am training for a Spider-Man cosplay project that will be released soon. To get ready for my role as Spider-Man, I am training in aerial silk and rope as well as going to recreational gymnastics classes to get back some of my acro(batic) skills.

Unfortunately, right now, I don’t have a heavy bag or other tools I would like to use practice martial arts. But I am fortunate to have opportunities to train in both aerials and gymnastics.

What happens during an average training session?

Everyday my training could be different depending on what opportunities I get. If I get to attend gymnastics or aerial classes I may not go to the gym. If the weather is nice I may train in the park that day. I endeavor to be consistent stretching and doing short, intense daily workouts. Because I am over 30, I like to do shorter workouts of a high intensity.

How do you make training work despite other priorities?

Right. I am very happy to have some free-time to train and work on creative endeavors.

When I was teaching in China with my wife it was a lot harder to find time to train. I found my duties at work very draining and I could only visit the gym 3 times a week.

Even though It was difficult to find time to be physical, I remained consistent in my workouts. And, I was able to regain some acrobatic skills I had lost (such as my wall-flip).*

This was very motivating to me and now that I have some more time I am trying push my self harder and reach new goals. It can still be difficult to train as much as I would like but I try not to get discouraged If I cannot exercise and I remind myself that at this age I need a lot of rest as well.

*Dash explains how he lost his acrobatic skills from an injury, later on in the email interview.

What prompted you to begin training? What’s the story?

When I was in Grade 9*, I had begun doing chin-ups and pull-ups because my father had installed a chin-up bar outside my room with different rungs in it. I had never been a very physical child and the most ripped part of my body was my thumbs from all my exploits in video game worlds. I got into the habit of hanging upside down on the bar after a set of pull ups.

One morning I jumped up to hang on the bar but it was not properly attached. I fell from a height higher than myself and broke my back. Although I was on my back for a great deal of time it gave me time to think. As I watched films, read comic books and played video games I realized all my heroes were all in excellent shape.

When I started walking I was determined to go beyond recovery and become better than I had been before. Bruce Lee quickly became my greatest hero and inspiration and I began researching about martial arts and fitness.

*A person in Grade 9 (Canadian schooling system) is roughly 14 years-old.

Were there some challenges that stopped you from training for awhile?

The biggest obstacle to my training was an injury to my ankle. When I was shooting for short action web-series called Lupin and Easton a trail gave way under me and I fell. I slid a great distance in the jungle and I managed to save my camera but I dislocated my ankle. It was very painful to walk out of the jungle on my injury and I never truly recovered from it.

Because I began studies at University shortly after this it became difficult to find time to train. The arches in my feet fell in 2010 and I am only just starting to recover them to my satisfaction.

After my arches fell I lost a lot of my acrobatic skill for a long time. Now, at my age I am very careful in training. Recently I achieved a goal of doing both 50 pull-ups and 50 chin-ups in one set but I quickly found I was doing too much pulling and it was causing a strain on me. I incorporated more pushing exercises into my workouts and I have also cut back a bit on the number of reps I am doing.

What happens in a week in your life? How do you make it work?

It’s hard to find time in the week to work on my creative endeavors and to train regularly. I sell gadgets and toys on Ebay and I try to find work in performance, film and video when I can. This can take up a lot of time but I find lately I have had more time to pursue personal goals than in the past.

Do you see yourself still training when you get to the next stage of life?

I believe martial arts will always be part of my identity and my lifestyle. I know I will not be able to do the same kind of activities when I am older. My metabolism and my body in general is already very different from when I was 20. I hope I can continue to adjust my training and techniques as I grow old.

What are three things you’ve gained or learnt since you started?

I have learned a great deal over the years and I am very grateful to all my teachers. The three physical skills I am happiest to have learned are my Nunchaku skills, my wall flip and my striking skills.

When I was teaching in Japan and I became unable to do my wallflip because of my fallen arches I became depressed. I felt my wall flip was part of my “Ninja identity” and I was so happy to have regained that ability this past year.

My greatest lessons in martial arts philosophy were taught to me by my Jeet Kune Do instructor (Dennis J White), my Muay Thai instructor (Wirasai Mantha), and by the writings of Bruce Lee particularly those in the Tao of Jeet Kune Do.

More About Dash Malone – Editor’s Note

Expect to hear more about Dash’s other experiences in the future. So, in the mean time, please follow him on Twitter (@NinjaSaizo) and take a look at his quirky YouTube channel.

Here’s the video he was filming when he got injured.

Also, leave him a comment if you have any questions.

The post How A Martial Arts Cosplayer Trains for Stunts – Dash Malone Interview appeared first on Way Of Ninja.

Larry McDonnell is a martial arts practitioner, who was born with dwarfism. This has caused numerous orthopedic issues that limits his mobility. However, never one to back down, he fought for his passion in martial arts and made it work.

This is his interview case-study that will help you redefine your perception of physical limits, be it from disability or injury.

Larry McDonnell’s Interview – Martial Arts, Dwarfism & Overcoming Physical Limits

1. What do you train in? And how long have you been training for?

I first started out with Okinawan Shorin Ryu in May of 1999. I have a 2nd-degree brown belt. After the local Shorin Ryu class shut down due to unforeseen circumstances, I moved on to training in Ju-jitsu (Japanese version). I got all the way to purple belt in Ju-jitsu. Earlier this year (2016) I began training in Shotokan along with my kids. I have dabbled in a few other styles such as Tang Soo Do and Tai Chi.

2. What’s your purpose and vision for training? What do you want to achieve?

Martial arts have always fascinated me since I was a child. I remember when I was younger I asked if I could take a karate class. I was told no because it would be too hard for me since I am disabled.

I am a Diastrophic Dwarf with skeletal dysplasia. I have a whole list of orthopedic issues that have resulted in limiting my mobility. I figured getting into a karate class could help me.

Not taking “no” for an answer

I never liked being told I couldn’t do something because they (parents, family, doctors, and nurses) didn’t think I could do it. I knew what I was capable of doing. I wanted to prove people wrong and that I was capable of anything when I put my mind to it.

My parents wanted to know the purpose of me wanting to get into karate. One of the reasons I told them was that I wanted to lose weight. Mom said, “start walking, you lose weight that way.” At the age of 17, the thought of walking was boring. If I wanted to walk I would join Frodo and Sam in taking the ring to a volcano. Karate – well it looked more fun.

Gaining benefits in mobility

At first, I didn’t realize how much I would benefit from practising karate. Initially, I lost some weight and I gained some mobility. What I hadn’t counted on was the fact I kept myself from needing a hip replacement in my mid-20s. Most little people who had hip and knee alignment as children usually had to get their hips replaced in their mid-20s. My doctor looked at me and told me that I am one of a few people who finally get it. He did all of the work on my legs, hips, knees, and feet so I could go out and live life to the fullest. My doctor told me that he has operated on other little people who would go home and sit because they were afraid to use their legs.

Having fun and meeting masters

I still practice martial arts for the fun of it. I also practice it because I feel better after a good workout. As I have gotten older, my goals have changed. Now I want to learn as much as I can. Not just from one style but from many. There are also many people I would like to work out with and learn from such as Doug Marcaida who does Kali and is awesome with the knives. The Ninjutsu master Masaaki Hatsumi from Japan and Yossi Sheriff from Israel have both fascinated me for years. I would also like to work out with Jesse Enkamp from Karate By Jesse and the legendary Master Ken from Ameri – Do – Te. There are many others but you get the idea.

3. What got you into training and who are your inspirations?

As a child I was inspired by a lot of movies and television shows featuring martial arts and most of all Ninjas! I grew up being fascinated with ninjas. I also enjoyed watching the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, especially when they were in their ninja mode. I know it seems lame but I don’t care. I will probably go see the new movie when it comes out. I also enjoyed staying up late hanging out with my former brother in law (karate buddy) playing the video game Mortal Kombat. Yes, you guessed it; I was usually the Sub-Zero or Scorpion (the ninjas). If we weren’t playing video games we were watching Dragonball Z.

Speaking of former brother-in-law, I would have to give some credit to my sister for helping me get into martial arts. Her first husband had a red belt in Tang Soo Do. She had an idea of what to expect in a martial arts class. She advocated to our parents on my behalf to let me go to a karate class.

4. What are some responsibilities you have that compete with training time? How do you make training work?

When I was younger and I first started practising martial arts, my biggest responsibility was to get through high school. I would go to school then go do karate class. Life was much simpler before turning 18 years old.

Now I am 34 and I have to be an adult and do adult things. Adult things such as go to work and pay mortgages. I don’t get to train as often as I would like now that I have responsibilities. I do try to make the best of it. I train when I can. When I am at work I can be seen in the hallway going through a kata. At home, I’ll run through some blocks, punches, kicks and a few other drills. I have 3 kids and occasionally all of them will attack me on at the same time.

If I cannot train physically then I meditate and I run through my katas. I sit, I close my eyes and visualize myself punching, kicking, and blocking. I visualize the attacks and the counter to the attacks. I review and analyze each technique to see if it can be applied in a different manner. I ask questions; is this a block or is this actually a strike?

I may not be learning through physical motion but I can continue to learn principles, theories, and philosophy.

5. Are there any challenges you face training as a little person? Please share examples of how you overcame those challenges.

You know in the movies how Jean Claude Van Damme can jump up in the air and kick someone across the face? Well for obvious reasons I cannot jump up into the air that high. So in order for me to kick someone across the face like he does, here is how I perform this technique: I take their legs out from underneath of them causing them to fall to the ground. As they are lying on the ground I get close to their face – and I kick them. Just kidding.

Nearly passed out

On a more serious note, there are some things I have found to be challenging. one of the things I have learned is that I cannot chase an opponent. Unfortunately I had to learn this the hard way. A few years ago (around 2010) I had gotten a lung infection. To be honest I thought I had a small cold. I thought that if I worked out and worked through it I would feel better. So I went on to class. During the last 30 minutes of class, we started sparring. Everyone had sparred at least 1 round with someone, except for me. Since there were an odd number of students in the room, the instructor said he would spar me so I could have my turn.

My instructor was a 4th-degree black belt. He is very light and fast on his feet. I had received my second-degree brown belt rank a few months before. At this point in my life, I was approaching 110lbs. Keep in mind 110lbs is not good for someone who is 3 feet tall. I already felt like I had a slight cough and cold.

I vaguely remember sparring. I know my instructor moved around a lot on the floor. I went after him everywhere he went. He moved to the left, I ran as fast as my little legs would take me so I could get to him. Before I could get there he had flanked to the right. I would finally catch him, or he felt pity and let me catch him. I remember the burning in my muscles. I almost passed out several times because it was difficult to breathe. I remember my vision fading once while I was trying to land a punch on him.

Realisation

Soon afterwards, (a few years later) it dawned on me that I would not go after the fight. I would let the fight come to me. I would stand my ground. I decided I would stick to the same principles as the front punch. Only go as far as the length of your arm to throw your punch. Do not give any more than that for you will run the risk of throwing yourself off balance or open yourself up for an attack.

In 2013 I started practicing Ju-jitsu. Once I got comfortable with myself in the class I began sparring. I decided I would try my strategy. I let my opponents come to me. Of course, this is much easier to do in ju-jitsu since you use your opponent’s energy against themselves.

6. How have you and your martial arts instructor adjust your technique and was there ever a concern for effectiveness? What did you do about it?

Karate

The first day of karate the instructor thought he would wear me out and I would never return afterward. The second day when I returned – the instructor knew I was serious about learning and practicing martial arts. My sensei knew there were techniques I would never be able to do for obvious reasons. Sensei could also sense that I had a decent head on my shoulders. So he decided that when it came to a technique that I cannot perform, I would still learn the teaching points. He wanted me to focus on learning the concepts, the principles, philosophies, and the smallest details about techniques and katas. My focus would be on becoming a teacher/sensei/instructor.

Ju-jitsu

Years later I went with a friend to observe a ju-jitsu class. As I sat there I began to have reservations about practicing the style. I watched as students threw each other around the room. I decided to give it a try anyway. Starting with my first day of class the instructor showed me how to perform a particular throw. Before I could protest and say “I don’t think I can do that” the instructor explained to me that there was a modified version of the throw. He showed me the modified move. I thought to myself – I just might be able to do that. I practiced the modified throw.

My ju-jitsu instructor knew how to modify several techniques. If we came across a technique that would simply be impossible even if it was modified; then the instructor performed the technique on me and taught me how to counter it. Even though there were some techniques I could not do, I would still take the time to learn the teaching points. Taking the time to learn the teaching points helped me a few months ago as I walked a lady through the basics of an Uchi Mata.

7. Was there a time when you nearly gave up on training? What made you persevere?

I cannot say that I have given up on training, practicing, or learning. However, there are several factors on why I have taken an extended leave of absence from a dojo over the years. Some of these factors are various types of responsibilities I must see to and practice martial arts at a dojo has to go on the back burner.

Family responsibilities

In my earlier years of practicing karate, I would spend time with some of my classmates (approximately 10 people or so) after class had ended. It was nothing to walk out of the building at 8:10PM and stand in the parking lot for 20 to 40 minutes talking. Sometimes we would go to the nearest restaurant and get dinner while we continued whatever discussion we started in the parking lot. There were some nights I would come home from class very late at night.

Shortly after I got married I started practicing at a new dojo. Many of my classmates from my earlier years were at this dojo and some things never changed. After class, we all proceeded to go outside to the parking lot and talk for 20 to 40 minutes.

I got home and my wife gave me the look as I walked into the door. She said it was almost 9:00PM and the dojo wasn’t that far from the house and wanted to know why it took so long to get home. I explained that we all stood around and talked for a while. I said didn’t see the harm in standing and talking to classmates and that they did it all of the time. I also told her I did it when I was younger.

She looked at me and asked, “Do you know the difference between you and your classmates?” I said no. She went on “All of your classmates are divorced and have no one to go home too. You do! You have a wife and kids!”

Ever since that conversation I had with my wife I have made it a priority that family comes first then martial arts. So if my child or wife is sick I stay home and help take care of them instead of going to class.

Educational responsibilities

Martial arts is more about using your head than it is punching, kicking, and blocking. I have no problems taking time out of the dojo to work on a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree. Especially, since I am paying a lot of money for said degree. I feel the more education you can get the more it can help you in martial arts. Taking time to focus on education will only make me a better warrior.

Financial responsibilities

Financial responsibilities, need I say more? If I cannot pay my bills I cannot pay the sensei. Nor can I pay to get the gas (petrol for you international readers) in the car to go to class.

Dojo politics

I do not like being told I cannot do something because I am disabled. I have shown that I will go above and beyond to prove that I can do something despite the fact I am disabled. I definitely do not like it when people tell me I cannot be friends with someone. I won’t go into too much detail but I will say that I was told I shouldn’t be someone’s friend because it was bad for their business. When I heard that, it was everything I could do not to take off my belt and handed it back to them.

Goals and interest are no longer aligned

I spent a few years at a dojo and I was constantly learning. I would go to the 2-hour class and I worked out non-stop. Every class I went to I had something new to use in my plethora of martial skills. After a year and a half the lead instructor decided he needed to focus on his responsibilities to his family and career. He needed to be closer to his home to take care of his family. He would also be spending more time out of town. So the time he was home, he wanted to be with his family.

The assistant instructor began to take over class more frequently. Keep in mind this assistant instructor was very talented as a martial artist and wanted to learn as much as he could about the style. His method for learning more was sparring in tournaments with people he didn’t know. He began to focus more on the upcoming tournaments in the surrounding area.

I noticed after a few weeks I was going to class and not getting a full workout. Eventually, I got 10 minutes of a solid workout. Afterwards, I sat on the side of the room while the assistant instructor would talk about tournaments and practice various techniques. I eventually got bored. I realized I had to take care of some responsibilities at my own home, the decision to stop going to class was easy. Though I do not think my departure will be permanent. I do plan to go back in the future. Until then I wish the best and I hope the assistant instructor who is now the lead instructor is doing well.

8. What advice would you give people with some form of physical limitation, who want to train in martial arts but are afraid to make the first step?

The hardest part is walking through the door. Once you get across the threshold, the rest is easy. Do not be afraid to go in and check out the class. If you are curious, just sit there and observe. Ask questions. Do not hesitate to try out some of the moves. Do not be discouraged if you cannot get it right away because no one gets it on the first try. You have nothing to lose by going into the dojo and trying.

At the end of the class, you learn one of two things: you can do it or you can’t do it. All that matters is that you tried. You do not want to be 80 years old sitting in your room staring at the wall thinking to yourself “I should have tried it!”

9. What advice do you have for martial arts and fitness instructors who are teaching people with physical limitations?

An instructor should have patience. They need to have the ability to think outside of the box. Don’t be so rigid that you cannot modify the technique. Tradition is good to remind you of the past. But tradition can keep you from going forward if you are not willing to adapt and evolve as the environment changes. I have had issues where an instructor insisted I perform a move the traditional way and to modify it was wrong.

10. Lastly, what does your website Karate Kickin’ Dwarf mean to you and what do you hope to achieve by sharing your experiences?

I chose the name “Karate Kickin Dwarf” because I hope it would catch people off guard or make them raise an eyebrow and intrigue them. “The Little Person who does Karate and Jujitsu dot com” just didn’t have a zing to it. Even saying it out loud I get bored.

Entertaining & inspiring people

My goal for the website is to entertain and inspire people. I also wanted something out there in the world for people who are interested in practicing martial arts, no matter if they are disabled or not, will see this and say “oh, well if he can do it, so can I.”

When I was younger I tried to do research on the internet (before the days of Google) to see if there were other little people doing martial arts. I wanted to show it to my mom and dad that if they could do karate, I could too. I wanted some supporting evidence so they would let me go to a class.

A few months ago I received a note from a father who found my website. He told me that his child was a dwarf and he was doing research to see if it would be alright for them to practice martial arts. He said reading about my experiences helped him make a decision. I was elated to read that my website had helped someone.

Advocacy for the disability community & helping restore mobility

I plan to grow my website. I have more ideas of what I hope to accomplish. I know it will take me a while since it is just me at the helm. However, I would eventually like to do more interviews so I can meet some of the renowned martial artists in this world. I would like to offer a consulting service to help other martial artist using my wide range of professional and personal skill sets.

Perhaps I can use this as a way to be an advocate for the disability community. Maybe create online training videos that focus on low-impact movement while at the same time restoring people’s mobility. I am also open to the idea of going around the world doing motivational speeches and demonstrations.

Editor’s Note: Interviewing Larry McDonnell

Broaching the topic of disability

Although I interact with Larry on social media occasionally, I was afraid that my questions about disability would cause offense. He assured me that he didn’t mind questions with no ill-intent and would correct me if I crossed the offensive line unintentionally.

Very often, we avoid talking about disability so as not to cause offence. Yet, by avoiding the topic, we lose the opportunity to learn from and connect with our fellow human beings. I have to thank Larry for his candour and enlightening responses.

The mindset to overcome physical limits

Also, in exploring Larry’s journey in martial arts as a little person, his responses highlights the underlying mindset in overcoming physical limits.

Instead of accepting that a technique cannot be done due to physical limits, find out how you can make it work for you. After all, it isn’t physical limits that holds us back in our goals, but our self-doubt and unwillingness to get out of our comfort zones (including being laughed at and criticised by doubters).

No one and nothing should have that kind of power to prevent us from achieving our goals.

Common goal among ninjas

Lastly, I wanted to know what defined Larry as a person and martial artist. Little did I expect to find out that both Larry and I share the common goal of bringing martial arts and mobility to people.

On this note, please visit my fellow modern-day ninja’s – Larry’s website for more – Karate Kickin Dwarf.

The post Training in Martial Arts as a Dwarf – Larry McDonnell [Interview] appeared first on Way Of Ninja.

Jack Sharp is a pre-university student who trains in several martial arts, including a centuries-old Japanese koryu. Socially-awkward as a child, martial arts training helped him to become confident.  And it has become such a passion that he will be travelling to Australia next year to become a live-in student at a Yoshinkan Aikido dojo.

Find out how he copes with his routine and hear his advice about koryu martial arts at the end.

This is his story.

Jack Sharp’s Case Study Interview – Modern & Koryu Martial Arts

1. What do you train in and for how long? What’s your end goal?

I train in Aikido, Judo, Karate, and Tenshinshoden Katori Shinto ryu, as well as doing reality based self-defence style training run by the British Combat Association. I started doing karate When I was five, have been in love with the martial arts ever since, and have not stopped training for the past thirteen years!

I suppose I have a slightly Romantic image in my mind of setting up my own school with my good friends and training partners as an end result. Oh and a dojo on the bottom floor of my house, that would really be living the dream!

2. What happens during an average training session?

So by Training style.

Karate

The one thing that you would probably notice about one of our sessions is that we don’t practice kata. Our form is slightly unorthodox, and the vast majority of the training works around developing power in strikes by hitting things. A typical session would also contain at least 150 press-ups, arbitrarily “awarded” as punishments by sensei!

Judo

We don’t do anything particularly abnormal here, a standard mix of ne-waza and tachi-waza, technical instruction and randori. I also help out people struggling with particular techniques or concepts. The focus is more on the fitness and sport elements, though we have been known to delve into kata on occasion….

Aikido

I act mostly as an assistant instructor at my current club. We are a Tomiki aikido club, but one of the two head instructors is a Tomiki style 3rd Dan whilst the other is a Yoshinkan style 4th Dan, so we get a pretty wide range of teaching and experience. Standard training sessions include technical instruction as well as practice of technique in both kata and free play formats.

Katori Shinto ryu

Our sessions will always start with the practice of basics, maki-uchi, yoko-men and kamae drills. After that we move onto practicing kenjutsu forms and sometimes finish off with something a little different, iaijutsu, bo, naginiata and so on.

Self-Defence sessions

These are run by the British Combat Association, and the focus is on as much realism as possible. Sessions are short, only lasting and hour and a half, but intense, the aim being to push your body in the same way it might be pushed in a fight. In a session we will normally do striking drills, clinching, grappling and ground fighting. We also focus on posturing, verbalisation and de-escalation tactics to attempt to avoid conflict in the first place.

3. What stage in life are you at and what are your priorities? How do you regard training, when considering those?

I am currently 18 years old, and about to leave school. My next big project is finding a job in London to be able to fund a trip to Australia in January 2017 to live as an uchideshi studying Yoshinkan Aikido. I have been extremely lucky for the past 5 years of my life, as I have attended a school that has the facilities and coaching to allow me to train seven days a week in addition to my academic studies. Leaving school will be a step into the unknown, and in an ideal world I would be able to start a club of some sort at which my friends and I could continue training regularly.

Aside from that, I am on the lookout for clubs in London so that I can get as stuck in as possible, even whilst working. Training is always a personal priority, however, at this juncture in time, certainly with the academic pressure that I face, I recognise that I sometimes need to scale back my martial arts timetable to allow me to work and revise. That said, it’s actually really important for me that I keep training, especially when stressed. It provides a useful outlet, and definitely keeps me sane and sociable!

4. Why did you begin training? What’s the story?

Why did I begin training? I was 5 years old and I was obsessed with Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Donatello was my favourite character and his weapon was a bo staff. I used to go out on the garden or onto a nearby common and find sticks and try to spin them like Donatello! I eventually found a karate class and begged my parents to let me take part. Despite their initial scepticism, they eventually relented, and let me train, and I couldn’t be more thankful that they did!

5. What were some challenges and obstacles you faced?

The challenges that I faced initially were less to do with martial arts and more to do with me.

I had two problems: firstly, I was incredibly unfit. This had arisen, in fact, out of the second issue, which was that I was a socially very awkward child.

Because I found it difficult to make friends, I tended to avoid social interaction, including that inherent in practicing any kind of sport. It took a few years, a change of schools and proper dedication to martial arts training for these two problems to finally alleviate.

There is a sense of community in any group, be it an educational establishment, a workplace, or, indeed, a martial arts club. It is this support from the people around me that allowed me to overcome the issues that I faced, make new friends, and thrive in terms of both academic and martial arts studies.

6. What happens in a week in your life? And how do you fit in martial arts training?

For the moment I am still at school. I am lucky in that the martial arts at the school I attend fit in pretty perfectly with my day.

On a Thursday for example, I might be training Karate at 14:00, Judo at 15:30 and then teaching Aikido in the evening at 20:15. The key to keeping up such an intense regime is simply planning ahead, seeing what work I have to do, and scheduling it to be done on my less frenetic days of the week!

7. Do you see yourself still training when you get to the next stage of life?

I like to think that I will keep on training throughout my life. I have gained so much from studying martial arts already that it seems nonsensical to abandon that now. I know that it is only going to get harder, that my days are going to become more frenetic as I try to find work in London, but despite this I fully intend to keep training insofar as I am able!

8. What’s three things you’ve gained since you started training?

1. Self-confidence
2. Respect for others
3. A sense of discipline and order in my life

9. What advice would you give someone who wishes to begin in koryu martial art training?

Know what it is you are getting into. Koryu training is not the same as say Judo, or Karate, it focusses on minutiae in technique, and is often steeped in tradition.

Each Koryu also has its own particular emphasis on what it studies, Katori Shinto ryu studies the sword, Hozoin ryu the spear, Hontai Yoshin ryu focusses on jujutsu, and so on. Do some research, on the style as well as the club.

Koryu schools are few and far between in most of the world outside of Japan, so if you have your heart set on learning a particular koryu, be prepared to go out of your way, particularly in terms of travel, to be able to train.

More by Jack Sharp – Editor’s Note

Other than being a young martial artist, Jack Sharp is also the co-founder of Samurai-Do, a website about samurai, Japanese history and martial arts. Follow him there to witness his uchideshi journey in 2017.

Here’s some of his work:

• The Ninja: Fact vs. Fiction
• Debunking Chiburi
• Tip #15 & 20 of 41 Proven Tips To Make Fitness & Martial Arts a Lifestyle

Way Of Ninja and Samurai-do are friends. Follow Samurai-Do!

The post 18-Year Old “Samurai” Martial Artist – Jack Sharp [Interview Case Study] appeared first on Way Of Ninja.

Eric Olsen is a young working adult, who aspires to coach in functional movement. Through parkour, he overcame anxiety disorder and boosted his self-esteem. Having spoken to him occasionally over the years, he is among the most dedicated movement practitioner who has made the training lifestyle work.

Make sure you read his advice at the end about starting out in parkour and functional movement activities.

Here’s his interview.

Eric Olsen’s Case Study Interview – Parkour

What do cross-train in and how long have you been training? What are you aiming for at the end?

My name is Eric Olsen and I have been training in Parkour and freerunning for about 4 years. At first my motives were simple, I wanted to feel a thrill and do something that went beyond the scope of what I thought I was capable of, but now the purpose has grown into something more.

I began to suffer from generalized anxiety disorder causing me great hardship. I started to feel trapped in my own skin, sometimes even afraid to leave my own house.

Parkour has helped me feel free again, not bound by my physical limitations and a sense of belonging within the community. As for the end result, I wish to inspire physical freedom to anyone who will listen, but more importantly (and probably more childish) I want to become a hero, whatever that may mean.

What happens during an average training session?

During the average session the main goal is usually to push for something we couldn’t normally do. We create ourselves a set of goals we hope to accomplish by days end.

These goals can be simple tasks such as climbing a specific tree, climbing a certain wall, or learning a simple roll. Other goals can be more advanced such as jumping a large gap, or performing advanced tricks and movements in various places.

Often times we plan strict training routines only to break them later because we’re too distracted by having fun, and usually accompanied by groups of small children who come to enjoy the show. Life is usually best lived unplanned anyways.

3. What stage in your life are you at and what are your priorities?

At this moment, I am 21 years old, working for a promotional products company, who aspires to coach in the physical arts. My ultimate goal is to work in an environment that utilize my skills and passion to share it with others. In my eyes training in the arts of parkour should take top priority as it is a major life skill, however I must put work first in order to maintain financial stability.

4. Why did you begin training? What’s the story?

I began training in March of 2011. Bored at a sleep over at a friends house we went to the park to pass the time. Our friend Justin Gibson demonstrated a few moves he has been working on and told us about Parkour. Interested we all began trying, soon enough it became the main activities among us. That was over 4 years ago and today i’m training harder then ever, I’m very grateful for his knowledge.

5. What were some challenges and obstacles you faced?

With little support from my family, no means of transportation, limited money, and in the process of finishing high school, training itself was always a challenge. Working with what I had. Be it local parks or my own back yard, I was able to make great use of both. Despite this, the biggest challenge was to find others to train with. Being that my friends were very busy, local communities were out of reach, and finding dedicated people is rare, I found myself training alone for the first few years.

6. What happens in a week in your life? How do you make training work?

In the average week of my life is usually a work schedule of 9-5 throughout the week. I try to fit in some time for training basic tricks outside my self, sometimes setting up a mattress for tricks I’m not yet familiar with.

Every Wednesday I attend an open gym at a fitness center called Iron sports in my city where we focus on obstacle course training usually targeted for the American Ninja Warrior show. The owner Sam Sann as well as others who work/attend are contestants on the show whom we learn a lot from.

Saturdays and Sundays I attend parkour meets in downtown areas of my city followed by an open gym session every Sunday at JCC Gymnastics. These downtown areas include large parks, universities, and different urban areas.

7. Do you see yourself still training when you get to the next stage of life, when you have a different set of priorities?

Parkour is a large part of my life and I cannot see anything that would become a bigger aspect of who I am.

In the future I plan to attend the University of Houston to set my career into place. In spite of all the work and hardship that go into building a career, nothing will halt me in my training.

If one day in the future I would find myself with children to care for, I feel parkour would be a great bonding experience, I would aspire to become their hero.

8. Three things you’ve gained since you started training?

Parkour has taken me on a journey. I’ve done things I thought I never would, been places I thought I’d never go, and met people I never knew could exist. The physical challenges I’ve faced and conquered are unmatched to anything I thought I could be capable of.

It’s funny actually, growing up I always shied away from physical challenges due to low self esteem. Mentally I’ve gain tremendous self confidence and motivation. Parkour is very much mental as much as it is physical. Learning to face fears is one of the hardest things you can put yourself through, even if it isn’t hard physically.

Spiritually however I feel was said best by one of my idols Daniel Ilabaca:

“Through parkour, I’ve found that relationship with God.”

9. What advice would you give someone who wishes to begin in parkour?

There are two things I always tell someone wishing to begin in parkour.

Firstly never lose sight.

In the beginning you will hurt yourself, you will feel tired easily, you will hurt for days after training, and you will never master a skill in a day. Surrounding yourself with people who are more advanced than you are can be very discouraging.

How many times have I felt completely inadequate before my peers, feeling like I’ll never be as good as they are. This is losing sight of who you are.

Train hard, push your boundaries, leave your comfort zone, try new things, be consistent and motivated in the time you put into it. Not to allow your ego to take control either, this too is losing sight.

The fulfilment is in the journey of growing beyond yourself and in time it’ll be you who others will look up to for guidance.

Secondly, always have fun.

Despite the health benefits, discipline, inspiration, and anything else you gained from Parkour the biggest part will always be the times you create and the memories we share. It’s the people you meet, the places it’ll take you, and the new things you’ll experience that make parkour worthwhile.

Nothing is permanent. Someday as we grow old and parkour will be something that we used to do, but the memories will never fade. We’ll look back and remember what it was like to actually feel alive and we will have no regrets.

More By Eric Olsen – Editor’s Note

Here is Eric’s goal setting from back in 2013 for Day Of Ninja. And here’s a list that he contributed to (#27 of 41 Proven Tips To Make Fitness & Martial Arts a Lifestyle)

I would also like to add that Eric has been on Way Of Ninja for a number of years and witnessing his progress is awesome. He has also been very helpful with advice on a persistent shoulder injury that has been affecting me since last year.

The post Parkour Gymnast Overcomes Anxiety – Eric Olsen [Interview Case Study] appeared first on Way Of Ninja.

Joelle White is a middle-aged mother, who works part-time at a community college. She has been training in Karate for two years. Not only is she active in training, but she is also involved in tournaments and aspires to be an instructor one day.

Apart from regular responsibilities, she deals with directional dyslexia and a genetic immune system weakness that had caused her to stop Karate training when she was a teenager.

She has also given advice for those of you interested in joining karate tournaments at the end.

This is her story.

Joelle White’s Case-Study Interview – Karate

1. What do you train in and how long have you been training? What’s your vision?

I am training in Shindo Jinen-ryu Karate, typically five or six days per week. I’ve been training for two years and my primary goal is to be a Sensei. A Sensei is a teacher, yes, but really I like the translation, “One who has gone before.”

I enjoy competing, but it’s not the end-all-and-be-all of my karate. I’m planning on going to Nationals next year (2017). For me it will be more about learning how to train my future students for that level of competition than it will be about any shiny medals I might earn.

I’d also like to gain skills in coaching, judging, and refereeing. In class I not only seek to improve myself, but also I keep an eye and an ear out for things I can use in the future. The notebook I have in my gear bag is full of drills and teaching methods I’ve gleaned from classes and seminars. I haven’t counted but I estimate my notebook has drills and teaching methods from 20 black belts. I love it when I see a student respond positively to what I’m teaching and I think it would be fantastic to teach someone from new white belt all the way to Shodan (first degree black) and beyond.

Year round, I walk the dog nearly every morning except when the weather is too bad for him. We live on the side of a steep hill, so I can get plenty of cardio and leg work right in my neighborhood. We have beautiful beaches and forested areas within easy walking distance. Saturdays I often do Zumba.

2. What happens during an average training session?

I train regularly at three sister dojos and, in addition, intermittently at a fourth and fifth. My training is so varied I have no overall average.

I’ll outline the three main dojos during the school year. So here’s what I do most of the year…

College Dojo

Monday and Wednesday during Fall, Winter and Spring quarters, 50 minutes –

This is a physical education class. The majority of the class is composed of new white belts who just take one quarter and are gone. Lately I’ve been doing a good bit of assistant teaching. First quarter, second quarter, and “continuing just for fun” students are all together. Most of the first half of the quarter the class is split into newbies and everyone else. Through the course of the quarter there will be more things everyone can do together. Usually I lead warmups then Sensei splits the class. He’ll either put me in charge of colored belts or new white belts, so I’m gaining boatloads of experience teaching. After class there’s about 10 minutes during which Sensei sometimes helps me with kata.

Home Dojo

Tuesday and Thursday, 60 minutes –

The highest-ranked student (Sempai) and I meet for 30 minutes before class, so really I work out for 90 minutes. Before class, Sempai and I work on kata (forms), bunkai (interpretation of kata), and fiendishly difficult combinations of moving basics. Sensei comes in roughly ten minutes before class and is often free to give Sempai and I a bit of help. The majority of the class is composed of children and teens. I rotate leading warmups with Sensei and Sempai. We spend a good bit of time on moving basics and drills. Often, but not always, we’ll spend the last 20 minutes of class on kata or kumite. A new batch of white belts comes in every two months and I switch off teaching with Sempai on Thursdays for a few weeks (on Tuesdays we have another Sensei to help).

Affiliate YMCA Dojo

Saturday, 90 minutes –

I usually do the Zumba class before Karate. There are times when I am alone after Zumba, and there are times when one or two others show up, and during tournament season the practice time becomes a class. Most of the karateka who show up on Saturdays are adults who outrank me. We’ll do moving basics as a warmup, then move on. Sometimes we focus on kata (forms) or kumite (sparring) or we do both. We’ll do some calisthenics toward the end of class, then finish up with stretching.

3. What stage in your life are you at and what are your priorities? How do you make training work amid your responsibilities?

I am a middle-aged mother of two teenage daughters. Fortunately they are at a stage in life where they’re a bit independent and can help themselves and each other.

My younger daughter cooks for herself, her sister and her father when I’m absent due to training. If there’s a birthday in the family I will skip training. I go on dates with my husband, the “Karate Widower.” I splash around in the YMCA pool with my younger daughter twice per week and I sometimes have lunch dates with my older daughter, who is studying at the college where I work.

I work part-time in the morning at the local community college. I work for the International Student Program as an office assistant/front desk staff, so every once in awhile I will see a student from Karate class in the office! My hours are flexed so that after work I can go to the building next door and help out with the Karate class. I was already involved with the college’s Karate program before I got the job, and I think my dedication to that program helped get me hired because I was already invested in the college’s community. I like it that whenever I run an errand to another building, chances are I’ll see someone who has been in or is now in the Karate class. I think both College Sensei and my office boss like it that I have these connections with the students.

My family comes before my training. Fortunately, I haven’t had to drop much training. Work is third place even though it funds all my karate fun. I always leave work exactly at 11:45 AM on Mondays and Wednesdays no matter how busy the office is so I can get to College Dojo in plenty of time to get ready. If the office is swamped on other days, sure I’ll stay a little while longer and help out. But not on Karate days! This was understood right from my interview, and confirmed when my hours were established.

4. Why did you begin training? Was there a person who influenced you? Did a particular event prod you into action? What’s the story?

Sheer curiosity.

My parents wanted me to find some activity to do before starting 8th grade. They tossed the city’s Parks & Recreation catalog at me and told me I could take a class if I wanted to. I was intrigued by Karate. What the heck did people do in a karate class – break boards, yell, and chop each other?

I decided to find out – I knew I didn’t have to continue if I didn’t like it. I loved it. Six weeks later I ended up going to another dojo that had more classes.

5. What were some challenges you faced? Were there any that stopped you from training for awhile?

When I was a teenager I did well for a couple of years or so until I started helping with the little kids’ class. I was sick as a dog so frequently that my grades were in jeopardy. My training went downhill and I was discouraged. Instead of bowing out of assisting with the little kids, I dropped Karate altogether. Years later when I had small children of my own, I found out I have a genetic immune system weakness (IgG subclass 2 deficiency). I will never be able to teach small children.

After I quit Karate I threw myself into my schoolwork, went to college, married, and had kids. Life kinda sidetracked any thoughts of Karate.

Some 27 years after I left Karate, my older daughter took the college’s Karate classes and ended up continuing at the YMCA (a sister dojo). I kept finding excuses to watch her. College Sensei and then Home Dojo Sensei persistently asked me when I’d be joining. We had some bills to pay off and I was afraid my fat, weak, old body would let me down. Finally, the last of the bills were paid and I made the decision to try Karate again. I surprised my daughter by showing up to class in a gi the day after her birthday. I about died that first class, but I loved every minute of it. Turns out I’ve outlasted my daughter and am still going full steam ahead.

6. What happens in a week in your life? What are some of the responsibilities that compete for your time? How do you make it work?

Here’s how my week breaks down.

Daily:

• First Breakfast around 5:45 AM,
• Walk the dog 6:30 AM, a few calisthenic exercises and stretching after.
• Second breakfast, social media, a little bit of housework, and get ready for and drive to work (10 minute commute – YAY!)

Mondays and Wednesdays:

• Work from 8:45-11:45 AM,
• get ready for Karate, help set up the room (put mats down), done with class at 1:05, take up mats, practice kata, done by 1:30, change out of uniform,
• drive home, meet younger daughter at bus stop (she has special needs and can’t be a latchkey kid).
• Social media, household chores.

Tuesdays and Thursdays:

• Work 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Tuesday, 9:00-1:00 Thursday.
• Sometimes lunch with older daughter (husband works from home these days).
• Social media, household chores,
• Karate 5:00 PM -6:40 PM,
• household chores, social media (yes, I’m addicted).

Fridays:

• Work from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM.

Race home to meet younger daughter at bus stop (early dismissal).

Most Fridays splash around in YMCA’s pool with younger daughter after I gulp down a substantial snack. Social media, sometimes visit another dojo in the evening.

Saturdays:

• Grocery shopping 8:00 AM sharp.
• Zumba 10:30-11:30,
• Karate 11:30-1:00 (sometimes beyond)

Sundays:

• Splash around in the YMCA pool with younger daughter and take her to the library.
• Errands.
• Rest.
• Social media (LOL), compose next week’s blog post, do a bit of digital art.
• Once per month – Board of Directors meeting for Karate fundraising activities.

I’m amazed that somehow everything comes together. My schedule is insane and I make it work by being flexible in my eating habits and by sometimes turning a blind eye to the parts of the house that aren’t quite spic-and-span. I’m very grateful that I work close to home, very near one daughter’s school and on the same campus where my other daughter studies and where College Dojo meets! My husband is content to stay home and hold down the fort, so he’s our anchor. My parents are always there for us in a pinch. I have a lot of support for the time I take for my training, and this includes not only my family but also my boss and co-workers!

Somehow I also find time to write a blog, keep up with online acquaintances, and keep up with my responsibilities as a dojo representative on the Board of Directors for our Karate organization’s fundraising branch.

7. Do you see yourself still training when you get to the next stage of life, when you have a different set of priorities?

My next stage in life is empty nest. That doesn’t necessarily mean I’m guaranteed more freedom.

My younger daughter has special needs and might either be in a group home or might still be living at home. My parents might need more from me. I’m just going to have to cross those bridges when I come to them.

Assuming all is well with my family and I do gain the “empty nest” freedom, I can see myself having three jobs to fill my time. I’ll have two jobs at the college – one with International Student Programs and the other as a fully credentialed Karate instructor.

In addition, I will be a Sensei at the YMCA. I will want to continue my own studies with whoever will train me.

8. Three things you’ve gained since you started training?

I’m going to go overboard with this and list three things from each area you’ve named 🙂

Physically: I’ve lost over 22 pounds (roughly 10kg). Is a loss a gain? I’ve know I’ve gained muscle and endurance.

Mentally: I’m gaining skill in teaching, fighting strategy, and overcoming my dyslexia.

Spiritually: I’m starting to be more in control of my emotions. I am more patient with people and situations. I try to pay back what I’ve been given – e.g. I help with white belts and serve on the Board of Directors.

9. What advice would you give someone who wants to join martial art tournaments but is afraid?

Trust your training, but at the same time, don’t be afraid to ask for specific help from your mentors and training partners. You are not alone – plenty of us are nervous about tournaments. Talk about it!

Don’t be so focused on the medals that it paralyzes you. I’ve been easily the best, I’ve been definitely the worst, I’ve won by being only a tiny bit better, and I’ve been the dark horse. I’ve learned from every single experience and can definitely say taking home a shiny medal is nice but it’s not everything.

Volunteer to help with setup the night before the tournament – you’ll meet some incredible people who are likely to respond well to the question, “Have you ever been scared before a tournament?”.

I find tournaments to be far more scary than belt tests, so I think of tournaments as fantastic preparation for my next belt test. If you can, get a coach – someone with the credentials to sit ringside and talk you through your fights. I can’t even begin to describe how wonderful that is.

Above all, relax. Too many stupid mistakes are made when people are frightened or angry.

More by Joelle White – Editor’s Note

These are some useful resources written or inspired by her:

• Dyslexia – a Path to the Heart of Karate – this talks about her challenges with directional dyslexia; something that makes learning movement a tad harder.
• Two Beginnings – Five Inspirations – the five people who inspired her two beginnings in training
• 6 Reasons Why You Should Never Dismiss Beginners – an article I wrote that was inspired by her Day Of Ninja push up challenge completion video.
• Posts written by Joelle on Way Of Ninja.

Joelle also writes regularly at her blog that talks about having the beginner’s mindset in karate, martial arts and life. Follow her on her journey there.

The post Middle-aged Karate Mom – Joelle White [Case Study Interview] appeared first on Way Of Ninja.

Why are you obsessed with becoming a ninja?

For generations, the ninja have captured the imaginations of people around the world. But a lot of what we love about these warriors is distorted by folktales and pop culture.

Nevertheless, here are eleven valid reasons why many of you have thought about becoming a ninja.

1. Spies with exotic ancient secrets

Admit it! Hollywood spies are cool.  But ninja are way cooler, maybe because of their ancient secret training that seem more formidable and exotic.

2. Human ability – no need for gadgets

The emphasis on human ability – rather than gadgets – makes the ninja all the more impressive.

What could be more awesome than warriors that rely on pure human ability for their missions? Using their wits, strength and techniques, the ninja seldom carried gadgets that would raise suspicion on their identity.

3. Superhuman senses and abilities

Becoming a ninja means pushing human limits on awareness and physical abilities. Scaling a castle wall? Running impossibly long distances without stopping? Detecting presence in the dark?

4. Supernatural ninja magic

The ninja were rumoured to use supernatural abilities during unavoidable battle: summoning storms or fire, reading a person’s mind and disappearing at the blink of an eye. You want to be able to do that, don’t you?

That said, supernatural abilities are nothing more than illusion, proper timing and extensive knowledge on things like gun powder, human psychology and predicting storms.

5. Art of stealth and invisibility

Being invisible and knowing how to get around undetected would be an impressive skill to have, wouldn’t it?

6. Formidable fighting abilities

Ninja – according to Hollywood – are formidable fighters who can use unconventional tactics to take on multiple attackers. Pretty cool…

7. Mysterious, Confident, Calm and Influential

Becoming a ninja is like being James Bond while gathering intel. Who doesn’t want to be mysterious, confident, calm-and-collected, and charming?

8. Jack of all trades – master of many

Unlike other historical warriors, ninja were not limited to combat. You want to be a master at many skills – martial arts, behavioural psychology, climbing, conversation, foreign languages and more.

9. Perseverance against all odds

There is nothing more life-changing than watching someone persevering despite having the odds of success against them. You admire the ninja’s motto of patient perseverance.

10. Superhero to the weak and oppressed

You want to become a ninja because they fought to protect the weak from the oppressive authorities. Though this is a pop culture myth, it feels good to be able to be a superhero to people who get picked on.

11. Anyone can be a ninja

Behind that mysterious mask is an average person who can do the extraordinary. You want to be that person.

What do you think?

Do you agree with the list here? Did I miss anything out? Leave a comment to let me know.

And here’s how to be a modern ninja in real life.

The post 11 Reasons Why Becoming A Ninja is Your Dream appeared first on Way Of Ninja.

There are countless number of martial artists who blog. But here are the five martial art bloggers who have helped clarify my direction during my setbacks in 2014 and 2015.

Sensei Ando – Andrew Mierzwa

Ever met a wise master with a “split-personality”? A sudden switch from cheeky trashtalk to serious fatherly advice. Andrew Mierzwa is just like this – and he is the person behind SenseiAndo.com.

Sensei Ando breaks down key aspects of martial arts and turn them into actionable insights. It takes martial arts as a holistic lifestyle of self-development, self-defence and improving your technique’s proficiency.

What I love about Ando’s writing is its calming effect on you if you are having a bad day. He usually ends off with simple and immediate action you can take to improve your life. And when people make excuses on remaining at status quo, he has no qualms over calling out on it. Not many people can balance having a fun wacky personality and being no-nonsense, without looking like a mental case.

Ando – the cheeky ‘trashtalker’

Just in two sentences (when asked to describe his blog), Ando responded tongue-in-cheek with:

The BEST Martial Arts Blog in the world. No nonsense about sticks, ninjas, or whatever the hell Andrea and Jo are into.

His cheeky statement was aimed at Andrea, Joelle, Jackie and me. And we all had a great laugh about it.

Ando – the mentor

Ando’s advice has helped me out throughout my cross-training journey, even if I was always stubborn, paranoid and overambitious.

When I was promoted to black belt after what I felt was a fiasco of a grading, I lamented about my feelings of not deserving my black belt. In his trademark cheekiness, he pointed out that I was a bully… to myself.

Of the things Ando has taught me, these were what stood out:

• Incorporate rest and recovery between training.
• Acknowledge my own achievements
• Be patient with progress
• And to focus on fewer goals to truly excel at them.

Whether you are a layman or martial artist, check out Ando’s blog for small and easy actionable steps you can take to live a happier life.

The Martial Arts Woman – Andrea Harkins

Know anyone who can link martial arts to any random topic? Meet Andrea, the martial art blogger who runs The Martial Arts Woman.

Through stories and anecdotes, Andrea demonstrates how being positive and having a martial art mindset helps one overcome the struggles in life. What’s equally important to her is giving a voice for female martial artists, and to challenge dojo gender stereotypes; a mission I believe is especially important for the next generation of martial artists – both male and female.

When she first started her blog, I had no idea how she managed to write on a near-daily-basis, while always being personable in her writing. And therein lies an important lesson I learnt from her – to avoid overthinking it or being perfectionist and let things happen as they should.

How I ‘Met’ Andrea?

I first approached Andrea back in 2013 to ask if she wanted to be a contributor for the inaugural Day Of Ninja. She accepted. We’ve tweeted back and forth since then. And chatted on video once or twice.

Earlier this year, when sharing one of her inspirational piece, we both got unfair lashback from a certain online community. When managing the crisis, I saw another side of Andrea – we became private ‘swearing buddies’ then.

For feel-good real life ‘case studies’ of how you can apply the martial art mindset to overcome obstacles, check out The Martial Arts Woman.

The Martial View – Dan Holloway

Interested in exploring all things self-defence? Look no further than The Martial View.

This community is the place to debate ideas and theories, and learn about self-defense programs and apps, regardless of your martial arts background and style. Many “big shots” have also been interviewed – including Richard Norton and Bob Breen.

But who’s the face behind The Martial View?

Introducing Dan Holloway

Besides the fact that he’s a fellow Aikido practitioner, I was drawn to Dan because of these reasons:

• The clarity over his purpose in doing martial arts – Dan is dedicated to exploring self-defence concepts, and he cross-trains towards that goal without discrimination over style.
• He is a third-dan sensei in Yoshinkan Aikido and instructor at Defence Lab but has never pushed his ego around whenever we talk online
• His decision to be a live-in student at an overseas dojo (Aikido Shudokan) trainee, is the very same leap that I intend to make in the future

As a result, I can’t help but see Dan as a senpai who has walked the path before me.

If your way of the warrior involves impeccable self-defense, take the leap and check out The Martial View. And join his Facebook group for discussions on self defence structure.

The Stick Chick – Jackie Bradbury

Stick weapons, Filipino martial arts geekery, debates over controversial martial arts issues and the occasional parentbrag. The Stick Chick presents the musings of Jackie Bradbury, a martial art blogger who trains in Presas Arnis and kobudo.

Her blog talks about the following:

• Technicalities of FMA and stick weapons
• Face-off Friday – a solicitation of the reader’s view over a specific martial art issue (or topic)
• Humorous observation of the people we’d prefer to avoid in the dojo
• Video fight analysis
• Shenanigan instructors and hoaxes (I believe she may no longer be doing these)

If you’ve trained in martial arts for some time, you will enjoy Jackie’s Face-Off Friday discussions, which looks at specific issues in martial arts culture.

What Jackie has taught me

As a marketer by profession, Jackie’s approach to blogging hinges on knowing what her readers want and tweaking her articles in response. I, on the other hand, complicate matters by introducing too many ‘bells and whistles’ to Way Of Ninja and not focus on writing the essentials. I will be taking a leaf out of her book to keep it simple and hit the essentials for 2016.

For awesome martial arts discussions and stick weapons geekery, check out The Stick Chick.

A Beginner’s Journey – Joelle White

Are you a beginner with self-doubts? Joelle’s experiences and inner-dialogues will push you forward and demonstrate that it is never too old to begin.

After a 27-year hiatus, Joelle White returned to Karate at her daughter’s and sensei’s challenge. The long time away from the dojo made her appreciate karate in the eyes of a beginner.

Other than her experiences in sparring, competitions and classes, this martial art blogger occasionally does an ‘inner-dialogue’ segment that illustrates ego trips and doubts that everyone has as martial artists with humorous personal anecdotes.

Getting to know Jo

I first spoke with Jo back when I wrote Anxiety in Martial Arts and Sports as a Slow Learner. She was the person who pointed out that I may have some form of directional dyslexia, and it was great knowing the name of this condition of not being able to process directions as quickly as I’d like to.

What I learnt from Jo was to learn with enthusiasm and confidence, and be unafraid to go at my own pace. To never shun looking at martial arts with a beginner’s perspective.

Check out A Beginner’s Journey to be inspired to take every day as a lesson in martial arts.

The post 5 Martial Art Bloggers to Follow in 2016 appeared first on Way Of Ninja.

Martial Arts can be likened to marmite (or for our friends in Australia, Vegemite). You either love it, or hate it; I have never heard a person, who is training, say they tolerate it.

In my last blog, I mused over being a mother and a female sensei, and how the two can go hand-in-hand. In this post I would like to reflect on why the females who train in our club carry on with their training. And ponder briefly over why other females never entertain the idea of giving it a go.

So, why is there this “marmite effect”?

What stops many from becoming a female martial artist and why I persevered

For many out there I think the term ‘martial arts’ can straightaway put a block in a girl’s mind.

If you watch films, TV and look at media, martial arts is seen as something as brutal, destructive and full of flying kicks and almost superhuman feats. This is something that I, as a mere mortal, could never hope to achieve.

Throughout history, women have been seen as the weaker sex. Disney films that I grew up watching, until of late, always portrayed the main female lead as someone who needed protecting from the ‘darkness’. This was usually in the form of lots of woodland creatures and a dashing prince.

Unfortunately, throughout my training I have never received any help from woodland creatures or a dashing prince. I have achieved through sheer determination and lots of encouragement.

Before Jujitsu

Before I started Ju Jitsu I did step aerobics which was a disaster. It taught me I have no coordination or rhythm whatsoever – normal aerobics, dance class (always on the back row), swimming, water aerobics, etc etc. I tried lots of different activities which were deemed suitable for a female and I hated them all.

Looking back now on my Ju Jitsu journey it has made me wonder why I have stuck with it. I get bored very easily with sports and am always looking for something new to engage my attention.

I then had a lightbulb moment. Ju Jitsu is one thing that when I am at the dojo demands my full concentration and attention. It teaches me self discipline. It teaches me how to overcome things in my life away from the dojo. Ju Jitsu gave me confidence.

I don’t mean confidence if something happened I could suddenly become Jackie Chan or Bruce Lee. Or single-handedly take down a small army like Steven Seagal. Or indeed be as awesome as Master Shifu from Kung Fu Panda with his Wushi finger. I could however be the panda reaching the biscuits on the top shelf!

No, it generally gave me much more awareness of my surroundings and the skills to be a mortal with some hidden talents.

Female Jujituska who started training & stayed committed

I recently asked a few females in our club what made them decide to start training in Ju Jitsu and why they carry on. Here are a few of their replies (names have been changed so I can plead plausible deniability):

Treated As An Equal

“I used to be a nervous wreck before I started training and lacked confidence; I never felt I was treated as an equal. In our dojo I am treated as an equal, it doesn’t matter if you are male or female. We are all expected to train as hard as each other within in our own capabilities. It’s great having the benefit of being taught by male and female senseis, they both bring the same teachings but different perspectives. I love it.” – Rachel

Walking at Night with Confidence

“I lacked confidence before I started training, I didn’t like walking to my car by myself at night time. Ju Jitsu has given me confidence” – Hurricane Mary

Note to readers: Hurricane Mary is now 3 belts up and has indeed found her inner ninja. She may only be tiny in stature but puts fear into many.

Ninja Awareness and The Hidden Agenda of Spreading “Evilness”

“It has given me confidence, ability, awareness and a great set of friends who are like family. I love being a female sensei so I can pass on my evilness to other like minded people.” – Evil Ninja

Give Martial Arts a Go!

So, there you have it. I feel that for most females, martial arts will always be seen as a male-dominated environment. And for the majority of dojos I suppose that is true.

My fellow coaches and I would love to see more females coming into training. Indeed, we welcome all new starters. We love new additions to our family.

Why not give it a go? The hardest part is stepping through the door.

Photos courtesy of Karma Ju-Jitsu (edits were done by Logen with use of public domain images & Share-Alike CC Flickr Bruce Lee Image by Giga Paitchadze – flickr.com/photos/55081903@N00)

The post Why Train in Martial Arts If I’d Never Be A Female Bruce Lee appeared first on Way Of Ninja.

Most of us aren’t destined to be Olympians or Greek gods and goddesses, but we all can find some kind of movement, sport, exercise that we enjoy that makes us willing to move away from the TV, bottle of wine and box of chocolates.

Spurred into action by medieval archery

Where should I start? I suppose 2007, when I found myself on my own with not much of a life; just work and home. So, when a friend’s dad was raising money for a good cause – “Have go sessions with a medieval longbow and arrows” – I gave it a little whirl. Oh boy, oh boy! I was hooked from the first arrow. I loved it and spent a fortune that day. When I got home I looked up the nearest field archery club and booked myself on a beginner’s course, choosing to shoot an English longbow as I find them the most beautiful. I practiced like a demon and in 2012 I came in 5th in the championships, in which we pit our skills against the target and course layers (not real animals, only pretend ones).

It was the start of my new life. However, I wasn’t very fit and I weighed 268lb at 5ft 2″ (more of your friar Tuck than your maid Marion).

Consciously deciding to be active (despite being afraid)

Then Boxing day 2011, I got up and thought: “to hell with this!”. I hurt ache and I wanted more out of life. So at 45, I decided that it was time to change. At first, it was hard work. I had to change the way I ate and started to do things to get me off my tush more. As I have arthritis, bad knees and curved spine, I wanted something I could do safely. Looking back now, yes, there was the cautious element but also I was SCARED, plain and simple – scared of failure and of being laughed at, but if I wanted to change, I had to take the bull by the horns and go for it. Taking the first step was hard, but when I make a decision, I get a tad focused – you can ask any of my friends this. Bit by bit, I increased my physical activity gently at first and building up to the program I do now. Twelve months later, I’m 178lb – US size 10 / UK 14.

Training in Bagua Zhang and meeting two amazing teachers

About 8 months ago, I found something called Bagua Zhang. It’s a martial art used for health and longevity but it also has roots in defence and fighting. My first lesson, I think back now to my teacher (Sifu) Ryan and what must have gone through his mind. But as the true teacher he is, he only commented positively. I know I wasn’t very good. Oh… and I used muscles I didn’t know I had. “Ouch”, was an understatement. It kindled a flame in me though. I wanted to learn I wanted to be able to move like that with grace, power and relaxed ease. I have two fabulous teachers and if I don’t grasp things the first, second or third time they continue till they find a way I do understand. They have the patience of saints.

There are so many true teachers out there. Don’t let a bad one put you off. Find another and don’t be afraid of going for what you want. It’s your life so enjoy it. Don’t be scared of trying something not mainstream. Not everyone likes the gym or cycling. Look for something you really want to do. I learnt if you don’t enjoy it, it’s not for you. And if you do enjoy it, you will give up so much stuff that is bad for you, just so you can get better at what really matters to you. It becomes like a mini cosmos you do because you want to, and you want to, so you do.

Starting a journey journal and finding balance

Now, for me, it wasn’t just diet. I was determined to find out why I ate the way I did. So, I started a journey book that was filled with emotions, what I wanted and what I didn’t want. I made a list of things I wanted to change about me and started to change them. I used self-help books, CDs and even booked a couple of sessions with a life coach. I was learning that you can change anything you want but the key word is WANT. I found my triggers and boy there were quite a few, but I decided nope, I have all the power and you are not going to beat me. You can reprogram yourself. It’s hard but it can be done.

My fascination into getting healthy grew. I wanted to learn to box and to learn Kung Fu. It is linked to Bagua but isn’t the same. I discovered I loved it just as much but just not the fighting for me; it’s the balance that it brings – the more I practice the more centred it makes me. My favourite classes are when I get to go through sparring moves with my teachers. I don’t care if I end up on the floor. It’s all a learning curve. One of these days, I’ll be good enough to hold my own without them holding back. I want to be the best I can be you see .

One of my teachers suggested I give meditation a go and it took me a while to get to grips with it, but wow it’s cool and it helps you to focus on the external parts of your life too. It’s the most valuable tool I have ever learnt.

Forging forward into new endeavours and my concluding thoughts

Then Christmas 2013, my friend Mick whose daughter Shauna Coxey is one awesome climber (look her up), asked me to go bouldering with him. Now, I’m scared of heights in a big way but I refuse to let anything stop me. So, I added another ‘string’ to my bow so to speak, and I hope to be fit enough one day to try base jumping. EEEK!

Now it’s 2014 and the weight is still going down slowly. I have ambitions and goals but the main one is to be fit and happy. It’s been like learning everything from scratch again, finding new ways to improve both my mind and my body, but I am well worth my time and energy. It really is a case of liking who you are inside.

I may be 46 but if I want to skip down the street I will. Bystanders can snigger all they wish but I have the power because I am HAPPY.

There is a huge wide world out there of stuff to learn and to do (from skipping to mountain climbing). So get off your tush and find some fun things to do. Because once you find the fun (the part that makes you dash home from work so you can be in time for a class or you sneak off to practise when your family are watching TV), you’re half way there. It’s the wonderful spark that lights up the days of the week. Find that and you have won the first battle.

One last thing, a few words of advice given to me by Sifu Phil that I’m passing to you because it played a very big part of my journey just eight little words:

You can be whoever you want to be

It’s your life and your choice to be happy; no one but you is in control.

Thank you to all those who are part of my life and for all the help you have given me. And let me know how you gave something that looked like fun a go and how it goes.

The post You Can If You Want To: My Journey To An Active & Happy Life appeared first on Way Of Ninja.