Bowley Kenpo Karate » Entries tagged with "Respect"
Kids as Role Models
We’ve just about grown our school to the point where we need a kids class separate from the adult class. (Right now they’re mixed by rank instead.) So after talking the would-be schedule over with some of the parents, we were decided on a course of action. We are going to create a kids class for ages 5 to 9-ish. After a recent class, I was speaking with two of the kids who will be … Read entire article »
Filed under: Personal Stories, Philosophy
Thank you Mr. Parker
December 15 is a special day in the Kenpo karate community. On that day in 1990 Senior Grandmaster Ed Parker, founder of American Kenpo, passed away. He could be (is) considered one of the fathers are American martial arts. His contribution to the modern karate community is unquestioned. Never having the pleasure to meet Mr. Parker, I soak up the stories from those who did have a chance to know and train with him like a sponge. By … Read entire article »
Filed under: Personal Stories
What can Spider-Man teach us about Kenpo?
One of the first things beginners learn upon starting Kenpo is the creed. A particular statement sets up a recurring theme found in the future belt pledges. “Should I be forced to defend myself, my principles, or my honor . . .” It continues in the orange belt pledge: “which will direct me to greater obligations and responsibilities . . to serve my instructor, fellow students, and fellow man.” In the purple belt pledge: “shall … Read entire article »
Filed under: Philosophy
Why do we bow when getting on the mat?
Each time any student or instructor goes on or off the mat they bow their head. I’ve seen it done at every martial arts school, and it’s done whether you’re getting on the mat to work or just crossing to the other side. The head bow is a tradition across schools and styles. But why do we bow our heads? Well, let’s start with what it’s not. It has nothing to do with any kind of Eastern … Read entire article »
Filed under: Philosophy
