During a recent black belt test I created a once in a lifetime gathering of the most influential, special, and meaningful Taekwondo instructors in my life. Grandmaster Moo Yong Lee. My first Taekwondo Master. A man that embodies what Taekwondo is. Grandmaster Chun Jae Park. My college roomate. World Champion. A man that brought me to a whole new level of Taekwondo and continues to search for the deeper meanings of Taekwondo. Grandmaster Jin Won Kim. A junior to GM Lee, an "uncle" to me, someone that has always been there supporting me, developing me over the years.
During their visit to Atlanta, I picked them up at the hotel, and posed this question to them. "What do I do when I feel myself getting frustrated with my students"? GM Lee, the senior of the three took the lead.
I had a student many years ago, "Robby", when I first open United. Terrible. Never wanted to listen. Fooled around. Never tried his best. But I kept teaching him. Kept reinforcing the positive things that he was doing. Many years later, his mother came back to visit me. Robby had graduated the US Naval Academy. She wanted to tell me how much an influence Taekwondo had had on him, and how grateful she was".
Grandmaster Park added to my lesson during the test when addressing the students. "What is the most important technique or element in Taekwondo", he asked. "Horseback riding stance...Snap, power, front stance, focus, hip-jog, ki-hop" the students answered. He patiently waited and then said, "The ability to bend is the most important thing in Taekwondo". Think about it. We bend (chamber) our leg to kick in order to create dynamic tension. We bend our knees in order to create strong, stable stances. But more importantly, beyond the physical, we must bend our minds, hearts and attitudes. Be more flexible, more understanding, more forgiving, more patient, more accepting. This is the true power and goal of Taekwondo.
A Master, teacher or instructor of any discipline must balance two visions of a student. The first is the vision and reality of the present. What that student is doing right now. Stance, balance, position of hands and feet. Memorization of terms, concepts and movements. This is the daily grind of martial art training. The second is the vision of the future potential of the student. What can they become? A common saying is, "A Black Belt is just a white belt that never gave up". It is the job of a teacher to not only deal with the daily reality of the student in front of them, but to look deeper and see the future black belt, pilot, business owner, salesman, preacher, doctor that is in front of them.
I am extremely lucky to have Grandmasters in my life that I can turn to for advice and guidance. My Masters never gave up on me. My job, is to never give up on my students.
Until next time, keep training hard...and learn to bend!
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Are you a motivator?
Taekwondo training is hard. The physical requirements make us sore, tired, and are sometimes painful. The mental requirements are equally exhausting. A foreign language to memorize. Rules, protocols, traditions all constantly on us. We don't always want to be there. We don't always want to try, or do our best, or push ourselves.
Whose job is it to motivate a class? The Master Instructor or teacher? Any Master or teacher WANTS to motivate and excite their students. That's why they teach. To share their passion; their love of the subject. But I can tell you that if a person or group does not want to be motivated, they will fight it. And all your words will fall on deaf ears.
It's HARD to motivate an entire group of people. I guess this is why Tony Robbins makes so much money. Every student is different, and needs different things. There is no one size fits all. I say this not only as a Master Instructor, but as someone with many years of professional teaching and speaking experience in front of groups large and small.
But all this changes if there's one or two people in the group that agree with what you're saying. One or two people that "get it" and want to be a part of it. The motivation starts to spread. Have YOU ever motivated a fellow student? Told them they're doing a great job? Offered some encouragement or positive correction so they can improve? I often tell people that one of the great benefits of Taekwondo is that it's an individual activity conducted in a group setting. Because of this we receive double benefits. The first is being able to be inside our own head and "do my Taekwondo". The second benefit is that we get access to the group.
Groups feed on energy in the room. Positive or negative. It must be something in our deepest, most basic human brain functions to go along with the group. Pack mentality. Humans like being part of a pack. And there are rules and a structure in the pack. They are unspoken but strong. You know the pack won't let you down. But you also know that you can't let the pack down. They are counting on you as much as you are counting on them.
Ever get "caught up in the moment" with a group? Doesn't matter what you were doing. Singing, dancing, doing Taekwondo, exercising. There's something magical and motivating about being in a group, large or small, all focused on the same objective and having a communal focused energy to it. You get energized, feel unstoppable, don't want to quit.
As a parent, I can tell you that I want to be the sole teacher for my children. I want all the words of wisdom, encouragement and truth they learn to come from me. But I know this is unrealistic. My father gave me many great lessons. But I learned many more from friends, seniors and other teachers outside the home.
Taekwondo is not about the doing. It is about the trying. Pushing ourselves to go outside our comfort area both mentally and physically. It is only when we push outside the envelope that we discover new abilities that were hidden from us before.
When you are in class, what are you doing? Talking? Looking at the clock waiting for class to end? Hoping the Master doesn't see you're not doing your best kick possible? Or are you a motivator? Setting an example for yourself and other students. If you see a student struggling, do you offer help? If you see a student do a great job, do you tell them? Try it. Motivation is like a boomerang. If you throw it at someone, it will come back to you when you need it.
Until next time, be a motivator. And keep training hard!
Whose job is it to motivate a class? The Master Instructor or teacher? Any Master or teacher WANTS to motivate and excite their students. That's why they teach. To share their passion; their love of the subject. But I can tell you that if a person or group does not want to be motivated, they will fight it. And all your words will fall on deaf ears.
It's HARD to motivate an entire group of people. I guess this is why Tony Robbins makes so much money. Every student is different, and needs different things. There is no one size fits all. I say this not only as a Master Instructor, but as someone with many years of professional teaching and speaking experience in front of groups large and small.
But all this changes if there's one or two people in the group that agree with what you're saying. One or two people that "get it" and want to be a part of it. The motivation starts to spread. Have YOU ever motivated a fellow student? Told them they're doing a great job? Offered some encouragement or positive correction so they can improve? I often tell people that one of the great benefits of Taekwondo is that it's an individual activity conducted in a group setting. Because of this we receive double benefits. The first is being able to be inside our own head and "do my Taekwondo". The second benefit is that we get access to the group.
Groups feed on energy in the room. Positive or negative. It must be something in our deepest, most basic human brain functions to go along with the group. Pack mentality. Humans like being part of a pack. And there are rules and a structure in the pack. They are unspoken but strong. You know the pack won't let you down. But you also know that you can't let the pack down. They are counting on you as much as you are counting on them.
Ever get "caught up in the moment" with a group? Doesn't matter what you were doing. Singing, dancing, doing Taekwondo, exercising. There's something magical and motivating about being in a group, large or small, all focused on the same objective and having a communal focused energy to it. You get energized, feel unstoppable, don't want to quit.
As a parent, I can tell you that I want to be the sole teacher for my children. I want all the words of wisdom, encouragement and truth they learn to come from me. But I know this is unrealistic. My father gave me many great lessons. But I learned many more from friends, seniors and other teachers outside the home.
Taekwondo is not about the doing. It is about the trying. Pushing ourselves to go outside our comfort area both mentally and physically. It is only when we push outside the envelope that we discover new abilities that were hidden from us before.
When you are in class, what are you doing? Talking? Looking at the clock waiting for class to end? Hoping the Master doesn't see you're not doing your best kick possible? Or are you a motivator? Setting an example for yourself and other students. If you see a student struggling, do you offer help? If you see a student do a great job, do you tell them? Try it. Motivation is like a boomerang. If you throw it at someone, it will come back to you when you need it.
Until next time, be a motivator. And keep training hard!
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
So....when will I test?
Two of my favorite times to be a Master and Instructor are when I get to invite someone to test, and when I get to award someone their belt after a promotion test. The smiles make all the hard work, tears, frustration, and long hours worth it.
There is a common myth/legend within the Taekwondo and martial art community of the origins of the transition of a student's belt from white to black. In ancient times, when a student began training, he was given a brand new uniform and belt. A white belt. In reality, the belt was probably used only to hold up his pants! Over time, after years of training, kicking, punching, rolling, sweating, bleeding. That white belt would become weathered, dirty, worn, and eventually soiled. From white, to brown, to black.
At ATLU TKD, there are 10 steps between white belt (Beginner) and Black Belt (Advanced). Color belts are known as GUP in Korean, and are numbered in reverse order. So when you start out as a white belt, you are a 10th GUP. Yellow stripe, 9th GUP, Yellow Belt, 8th GUP and so on. 1st GUP is red belt with a black stripe. And what is the BO-DAN? This half red-half black belt is a preparatory black belt. During this time a color belt prepares for his or her black belt test. Black belts are known as DAN in Korean and are number in ascending sequential order, 1-9.
There are two types of promotion testing in Taekwondo. Color belt tests known as GUP tests. And Black belt tests, know as DAN tests. At our ATLU, GUP tests happen once or twice a month, DAN testing happen twice a year.
Our system of testing is slightly different from many others in that testing is by invitation only by the Master Instructor. Not automatic because a certain number of classes have been attended. Not automatic because a certain period of time has passed. But a global assessment and review of the student based on technique, experience, maturity, and readiness to move up and on. For our junior students (those under 18), parental consent, approval and recommendation must be given based on demonstration by the student of the tenets of Taekwondo at home and school.
Promotion tests are an opportunity to bring together the community of our school. All ages. All belts. Parents, friends, supporters. For many students and families, it is the first time they get to see the entire spectrum of the school, and Taekwondo practitioners other than the specific class they attend.
There is no set agenda for a test. Yes, there is an order of events. Basics, Poomse, One-Steps, Free Sparring and Breaking. But the details are hidden. Saved until the last moment by the Master or Grandmaster based on the student, the events, the moment. Each test an opportunity for discovery and discussion. To investigate and explore the depth, breadth and volume of a student's physical and educational knowledge of Taekwondo. This is also different than many other schools. In many schools, you are given an outline of what you have to know for your next test. Do this combination of kicks; this form; this one-step; and, "ta-da"...you're promoted.
There are a couple unwritten rules when it come to promotion testing that I should probably finally commit to paper (or the blogosphere). The first is that students and parents should not not ask if they or their child are ready to test or when they will test. This display of self-control and humility is part of the growth of a student in Taekwondo. Second, a student must not ask when they will get their belt after a test either. This is an exercise in patience. This second rule is especially important in this instant gratification world we live in today.
Many times I have a parent come to me before a test and say, "Johnny is scared to test". My response is always the same. He should be. This is a TEST. And he will be fine! He knows what's required. That's why he was invited to test. All he has to do is step on the mat, take a deep breath, and show what he knows.
I've mentioned several times before that the dojang is a microcosm of our larger lives. A laboratory. A test space. If we can conquer feelings, emotions, impulses in the dojang. If we can learn to deal with them in a positive way, then the hope is that it becomes easier to deal with them in the "real-world". Where else does a child, or adult for that matter, get to practice these things?
Until next time, train hard and good luck on your next test!
There is a common myth/legend within the Taekwondo and martial art community of the origins of the transition of a student's belt from white to black. In ancient times, when a student began training, he was given a brand new uniform and belt. A white belt. In reality, the belt was probably used only to hold up his pants! Over time, after years of training, kicking, punching, rolling, sweating, bleeding. That white belt would become weathered, dirty, worn, and eventually soiled. From white, to brown, to black.
At ATLU TKD, there are 10 steps between white belt (Beginner) and Black Belt (Advanced). Color belts are known as GUP in Korean, and are numbered in reverse order. So when you start out as a white belt, you are a 10th GUP. Yellow stripe, 9th GUP, Yellow Belt, 8th GUP and so on. 1st GUP is red belt with a black stripe. And what is the BO-DAN? This half red-half black belt is a preparatory black belt. During this time a color belt prepares for his or her black belt test. Black belts are known as DAN in Korean and are number in ascending sequential order, 1-9.
There are two types of promotion testing in Taekwondo. Color belt tests known as GUP tests. And Black belt tests, know as DAN tests. At our ATLU, GUP tests happen once or twice a month, DAN testing happen twice a year.
Our system of testing is slightly different from many others in that testing is by invitation only by the Master Instructor. Not automatic because a certain number of classes have been attended. Not automatic because a certain period of time has passed. But a global assessment and review of the student based on technique, experience, maturity, and readiness to move up and on. For our junior students (those under 18), parental consent, approval and recommendation must be given based on demonstration by the student of the tenets of Taekwondo at home and school.
Promotion tests are an opportunity to bring together the community of our school. All ages. All belts. Parents, friends, supporters. For many students and families, it is the first time they get to see the entire spectrum of the school, and Taekwondo practitioners other than the specific class they attend.
There is no set agenda for a test. Yes, there is an order of events. Basics, Poomse, One-Steps, Free Sparring and Breaking. But the details are hidden. Saved until the last moment by the Master or Grandmaster based on the student, the events, the moment. Each test an opportunity for discovery and discussion. To investigate and explore the depth, breadth and volume of a student's physical and educational knowledge of Taekwondo. This is also different than many other schools. In many schools, you are given an outline of what you have to know for your next test. Do this combination of kicks; this form; this one-step; and, "ta-da"...you're promoted.
There are a couple unwritten rules when it come to promotion testing that I should probably finally commit to paper (or the blogosphere). The first is that students and parents should not not ask if they or their child are ready to test or when they will test. This display of self-control and humility is part of the growth of a student in Taekwondo. Second, a student must not ask when they will get their belt after a test either. This is an exercise in patience. This second rule is especially important in this instant gratification world we live in today.
Many times I have a parent come to me before a test and say, "Johnny is scared to test". My response is always the same. He should be. This is a TEST. And he will be fine! He knows what's required. That's why he was invited to test. All he has to do is step on the mat, take a deep breath, and show what he knows.
I've mentioned several times before that the dojang is a microcosm of our larger lives. A laboratory. A test space. If we can conquer feelings, emotions, impulses in the dojang. If we can learn to deal with them in a positive way, then the hope is that it becomes easier to deal with them in the "real-world". Where else does a child, or adult for that matter, get to practice these things?
Until next time, train hard and good luck on your next test!
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Where do YOU come from?
You know you study Taekwondo. You know it comes from South Korea. But do you know the type of Taekwondo that you study? Do you know your heritage? Do you know where you come from?
For my students, I hope you know who I am. For those of you that might be reading this that don't train with me, let me introduce myself. I'm a Kukkiwon certified 6th degree black belt (Dan) and have been studying Taekwondo for over twenty years. MY master is Grandmaster (GM) Moo Yong Lee (http://www.mooyonglee.com/). I have to admit that the universe brought me to GM Lee.
I started my martial art journey my senior year of high school. My then girlfriend, now wife's father was a 1st Degree black belt and my first instructor. He had earned his black belt in 1971 while in Vietnam. He was "old school". Deep, powerful stances, knuckle push ups (on the asphalt in the driveway), and the "one strike-one kill" mentality when it came to punches and kicks. After several months of bugging him to train us, he agreed. We loved the training, and I think he enjoyed the teaching.
My freshman year I joined the Karate Club at college. Not Taekwondo, but a hybrid of many styles. It wasn't what I was used to, or frankly what I was looking for, but they were nice. We trained hard, had fun, and got to travel a little bit for tournaments.
My sophomore year, I got a new roommate. When I met this International student that was a few years older than me I was excited. He was Korean! He must know Taekwondo! So I asked him. And I'll never forget his response...."A little." We agreed to meet in the Wrestling room where the Karate Club met to practice together. The events of the next hour would change my life.
Right away, I knew he was different, special. At a level of martial arts higher than anything I had ever experienced. I had a little sparring training under my belt at that point, so feeling confident I invited him to spar with me. It was the beating of my life.
Turns out, he was the 1982 welter weight World Champion from Korea. Cheon Jae Park. This was 1987, so he was still very much in his prime. But this blog is not about CJ Park. I will dedicate one to him later.
What CJ Park did though, was to introduce me to Grand Master Lee. I was in Springfield, Massachusetts, and GM Lee's school, United Tae Kwon Do (sound familiar?) was, and still is, in East Hartford, Connecticut. So, off I went. Driving 30-60 minutes (depending on traffic) south down I-91 South every day to train.
Korea was occupied by the Japanese during WWII. During this period, many native Korean activities and traditions including martial arts, were forbidden. But after the occupation ended in 1945 native arts, traditions and activities began to re-appear.
Over the next two decades, 5 main schools developed in Seoul. One of these, known as Moo Duk Kwon, was founded by Hwang Ki. Moo Duk Kwon translated literally means, "the institute of martial virtue". One of Hwang Ki's original students was GM Moo Yong Lee. DAN number 62 means that he was the 62nd person to receive a black belt from Hwang Ki.
GM Lee came to the USA in the early 1970's and opened United Taekwondo. Over the years, that school has produced countless black belts, instructors, Masters, and champions. In addition to teaching classes, GM Lee was involved in the national and international development of Taekwondo. He served in several leadership positions including Connecticut State President, President of the US Taekwondo Union, USTU (now known as USA Taekwondo), and was involved in the US Olympic Committee.
But what makes GM Lee special is not what positions he has held, but what he does when he's on the mat. Firm, fierce, demanding, caring, funny. Every time I count I hear his counting in my head. Every time I demonstrate a technique, I see him doing it in my head. Pure perfection in movement and motion.
GM Lee has a way of engaging a class of students. It doesn't matter if the student is a 7 year old white belt, or a 43 year old Master. Drawing them in, making them feel comfortable, welcome, accepted, at ease. Using this, he starts to work them. Pushing them, stressing them, challenging them, frustrating them. Pushing them past what they thought they could be at that moment, and in their lives.
His lessons are subtle. A comment. A look. A suggestion. An open-ended question.
We are very lucky to have GM Lee in our family tree, and even luckier that he visits occasionally when his schedule allows for black belt testing. The next time he's here in Atlanta I encourage you to meet him. Engage him. Learn from him.
Be knowledgeable and proud of your Taekwondo heritage. Few share this lineage with you.
For my students, I hope you know who I am. For those of you that might be reading this that don't train with me, let me introduce myself. I'm a Kukkiwon certified 6th degree black belt (Dan) and have been studying Taekwondo for over twenty years. MY master is Grandmaster (GM) Moo Yong Lee (http://www.mooyonglee.com/). I have to admit that the universe brought me to GM Lee.
I started my martial art journey my senior year of high school. My then girlfriend, now wife's father was a 1st Degree black belt and my first instructor. He had earned his black belt in 1971 while in Vietnam. He was "old school". Deep, powerful stances, knuckle push ups (on the asphalt in the driveway), and the "one strike-one kill" mentality when it came to punches and kicks. After several months of bugging him to train us, he agreed. We loved the training, and I think he enjoyed the teaching.
My freshman year I joined the Karate Club at college. Not Taekwondo, but a hybrid of many styles. It wasn't what I was used to, or frankly what I was looking for, but they were nice. We trained hard, had fun, and got to travel a little bit for tournaments.
My sophomore year, I got a new roommate. When I met this International student that was a few years older than me I was excited. He was Korean! He must know Taekwondo! So I asked him. And I'll never forget his response...."A little." We agreed to meet in the Wrestling room where the Karate Club met to practice together. The events of the next hour would change my life.
Right away, I knew he was different, special. At a level of martial arts higher than anything I had ever experienced. I had a little sparring training under my belt at that point, so feeling confident I invited him to spar with me. It was the beating of my life.
Turns out, he was the 1982 welter weight World Champion from Korea. Cheon Jae Park. This was 1987, so he was still very much in his prime. But this blog is not about CJ Park. I will dedicate one to him later.
What CJ Park did though, was to introduce me to Grand Master Lee. I was in Springfield, Massachusetts, and GM Lee's school, United Tae Kwon Do (sound familiar?) was, and still is, in East Hartford, Connecticut. So, off I went. Driving 30-60 minutes (depending on traffic) south down I-91 South every day to train.
Grandmaster Moo Yong Lee is a Kukkiwon certified 9th degree black belt (Dan) and Moo Duk Kwan Dan Number 62, which allows him to trace his heritage directly back to the founder of Moo Duk Kwan Taekwondo. Moo Duk Kwan (the original Korean Martial Arts Academy) was founded in 1945 in Korea.
Korea was occupied by the Japanese during WWII. During this period, many native Korean activities and traditions including martial arts, were forbidden. But after the occupation ended in 1945 native arts, traditions and activities began to re-appear.
Over the next two decades, 5 main schools developed in Seoul. One of these, known as Moo Duk Kwon, was founded by Hwang Ki. Moo Duk Kwon translated literally means, "the institute of martial virtue". One of Hwang Ki's original students was GM Moo Yong Lee. DAN number 62 means that he was the 62nd person to receive a black belt from Hwang Ki.
GM Lee came to the USA in the early 1970's and opened United Taekwondo. Over the years, that school has produced countless black belts, instructors, Masters, and champions. In addition to teaching classes, GM Lee was involved in the national and international development of Taekwondo. He served in several leadership positions including Connecticut State President, President of the US Taekwondo Union, USTU (now known as USA Taekwondo), and was involved in the US Olympic Committee.
But what makes GM Lee special is not what positions he has held, but what he does when he's on the mat. Firm, fierce, demanding, caring, funny. Every time I count I hear his counting in my head. Every time I demonstrate a technique, I see him doing it in my head. Pure perfection in movement and motion.
GM Lee has a way of engaging a class of students. It doesn't matter if the student is a 7 year old white belt, or a 43 year old Master. Drawing them in, making them feel comfortable, welcome, accepted, at ease. Using this, he starts to work them. Pushing them, stressing them, challenging them, frustrating them. Pushing them past what they thought they could be at that moment, and in their lives.
His lessons are subtle. A comment. A look. A suggestion. An open-ended question.
We are very lucky to have GM Lee in our family tree, and even luckier that he visits occasionally when his schedule allows for black belt testing. The next time he's here in Atlanta I encourage you to meet him. Engage him. Learn from him.
Be knowledgeable and proud of your Taekwondo heritage. Few share this lineage with you.
Until next time, train hard!
Friday, March 9, 2012
You want me to what?
Shhh....be quiet. Don't speak so loud. Don't yell. Lower your voice. These mandates we hear from a very young age, and are reinforced throughout our lives and within society. So it comes as no surprise, that when we (Taekwondo Instructors) ask a student to "kihop" or shout, it is met with considerable reluctance.
"Ki Hop" is a combination of two Korean words: "Ki", referring to the internal energy that dwells in all of us. Our Spirit (more on this later). "Hop" has meaning of concentration or focust. Put them together and it becomes "an outcry uttered in such concentration" or "energy shout". A verbal utterance that brings together for an instant our focus and energy.
So why do we kihop? First let's discuss the physiological reasons. As we kihop we tighten the muscles of the body for a fraction of a second. This sudden tension of the muscles combined with the speed and accuracy of the technique results in the amazing power that Taekwondo is known for. Muscle, skin, and bone harden to steel and stone for a fraction of an instant. This allows us to break wood and bricks with amazing power.
The psychological reasons for kihop are realized both by the practitioner and opponent. A strong kihop can temporarily startle an opponent, thus giving an advantage to the practitioner. Secondly, there is a positive feeling that we get when we make a good, strong kihop; it feels good! A strong kihop can stimulate us; motivate us; empower us; rejuvenate us; strengthen us. A good kihop can return our focus back to the task at hand.
And how should we kihop? The kihop should be be a short, forceful exhalation and shout. It should be executed at the same exact moment that we perform the technique. It should originate in our lower abdomen, and boil up rapidly out of our throat and mouth, like water boiling out of a teapot. It shouldn't linger or be weak.
One of the beautiful diametric opposites of Taekwondo is the balance between the self-controlled silence of the dojang, and the ear-splitting kihop when we execute a technique.
So, keep training hard and kihop loud!
"Ki Hop" is a combination of two Korean words: "Ki", referring to the internal energy that dwells in all of us. Our Spirit (more on this later). "Hop" has meaning of concentration or focust. Put them together and it becomes "an outcry uttered in such concentration" or "energy shout". A verbal utterance that brings together for an instant our focus and energy.
So why do we kihop? First let's discuss the physiological reasons. As we kihop we tighten the muscles of the body for a fraction of a second. This sudden tension of the muscles combined with the speed and accuracy of the technique results in the amazing power that Taekwondo is known for. Muscle, skin, and bone harden to steel and stone for a fraction of an instant. This allows us to break wood and bricks with amazing power.
The psychological reasons for kihop are realized both by the practitioner and opponent. A strong kihop can temporarily startle an opponent, thus giving an advantage to the practitioner. Secondly, there is a positive feeling that we get when we make a good, strong kihop; it feels good! A strong kihop can stimulate us; motivate us; empower us; rejuvenate us; strengthen us. A good kihop can return our focus back to the task at hand.
And how should we kihop? The kihop should be be a short, forceful exhalation and shout. It should be executed at the same exact moment that we perform the technique. It should originate in our lower abdomen, and boil up rapidly out of our throat and mouth, like water boiling out of a teapot. It shouldn't linger or be weak.
One of the beautiful diametric opposites of Taekwondo is the balance between the self-controlled silence of the dojang, and the ear-splitting kihop when we execute a technique.
So, keep training hard and kihop loud!
Monday, February 13, 2012
Where are you?
Focus...it's a word we hear all the time in Taekwondo. It's a word that instructors and schools market to the general public as one of the benefits of training in Taekwondo. "Train in Taekwondo and you (or your child) will be able to increase their focus".
But what is focus? How do we improve it? Why is it important that I improve it?
In today's world of multiple, high-frequency, high-intensity distractions...we need to be able to let go. To shed all these external distractions and find a calm moment to find and enjoy ourselves and what we're doing.
Multitasking. Ever find yourself sitting in front of the TV, laptop on your lap, multiple web pages/tabs open...(of course Facebook is one of them), talking on your cell phone? Multitasking is every job seeker's testament and every employer's preoccupation. But recent studies have shown that it's actually BAD for us. Making us do a poorer job at ALL the tasks we are so efficiently multitasking on.
Being in the moment means focusing your mind on ONLY the task at hand. In the dojang, this means thinking only of the kick, block, punch, or form that you're doing. Letting all other distractions fall away. As a martial artist this is important because it is the beginning of the transition of techniques from solely a physical movement, to one that includes all of you as a being.
So how do we do it? First of all you have to realize that the mind is like a small puppy that at one moment, will be interested in something, and then the next, wonder off in search of something else. Our job is to train ourselves to come back to the item we're "in" whenever we feel our puppy wander off.
The benefit of being in the moment is an enjoyment and appreciation of that moment. I ask my students all the time what the most valuable thing they have is...the answer is time. It's so rare and precious that there is only one moment. You don't get two moments...a do over. So be in that moment, enjoy it, savor it, indulge in it.
So, being in the moment is a concept that applies not only to the dojang, but our daily lives. Be in the moment with your friends, your family, your children. Enjoy them as you experience them.
Being in the moment is a vaccine against the disease of regret. "I wish I had spent more time with her, I wish I would have paid attention, I wish I could have tried harder".
Keep training hard!
But what is focus? How do we improve it? Why is it important that I improve it?
In today's world of multiple, high-frequency, high-intensity distractions...we need to be able to let go. To shed all these external distractions and find a calm moment to find and enjoy ourselves and what we're doing.
Multitasking. Ever find yourself sitting in front of the TV, laptop on your lap, multiple web pages/tabs open...(of course Facebook is one of them), talking on your cell phone? Multitasking is every job seeker's testament and every employer's preoccupation. But recent studies have shown that it's actually BAD for us. Making us do a poorer job at ALL the tasks we are so efficiently multitasking on.
Being in the moment means focusing your mind on ONLY the task at hand. In the dojang, this means thinking only of the kick, block, punch, or form that you're doing. Letting all other distractions fall away. As a martial artist this is important because it is the beginning of the transition of techniques from solely a physical movement, to one that includes all of you as a being.
So how do we do it? First of all you have to realize that the mind is like a small puppy that at one moment, will be interested in something, and then the next, wonder off in search of something else. Our job is to train ourselves to come back to the item we're "in" whenever we feel our puppy wander off.
The benefit of being in the moment is an enjoyment and appreciation of that moment. I ask my students all the time what the most valuable thing they have is...the answer is time. It's so rare and precious that there is only one moment. You don't get two moments...a do over. So be in that moment, enjoy it, savor it, indulge in it.
So, being in the moment is a concept that applies not only to the dojang, but our daily lives. Be in the moment with your friends, your family, your children. Enjoy them as you experience them.
Being in the moment is a vaccine against the disease of regret. "I wish I had spent more time with her, I wish I would have paid attention, I wish I could have tried harder".
Keep training hard!
Sunday, February 5, 2012
It's just a mat...right?
A 3 foot by 3 foot, one-inch thick hard rubber square...that's a mat. Put a bunch together on the floor with some mirrors and flags and you've got a dojang (training space).
But it's more than that.
The dojang is a special place. A protected, special place for all students. It is a place where everyone is safe. Safe from the troubles, pressures and worries of the outside world. Safe from bullying, and ridicule. A place where everyone can be in the moment of their training (more on this in another post), and forget and leave the outside world for just a little bit.
The rules of the dojang ensure that it remains a special place. Shoes and hats are removed as a sign of respect and humility, as well as to maintain cleanliness. Students bow on the way in and out to show respect for the dojang itself, as well as the national flags that hang there. Excessive noise and talking are discouraged to allow students to focus attention on the Master and what they are learning. Horseplay is not allowed to ensure safety as well as a reminder of the seriousness of what is learned there.
The dojang is a mirror of life. In the dojang we experience all the emotions of life: joy, pain, pride of accomplishment, frustration, fear, failure, sorrow. By facing these feelings and emotions in the microcosm of the structured, regulated dojang, we learn to deal with them. Learn to deal with them inside the dojang, and you can deal with them outside the dojang. The dojang is a school....a place of learning. Some lessons are easy....others hard and some even painful. Most everything that is done by the Master Instructor has purpose or meaning.
The hardest part of any journey is the courage to take the first step. I can't tell you how many times people have told me, " I've always wanted to try the martial arts". My advice is always the same....Just get on the mat!
Keep training hard!
But it's more than that.
The dojang is a special place. A protected, special place for all students. It is a place where everyone is safe. Safe from the troubles, pressures and worries of the outside world. Safe from bullying, and ridicule. A place where everyone can be in the moment of their training (more on this in another post), and forget and leave the outside world for just a little bit.
The rules of the dojang ensure that it remains a special place. Shoes and hats are removed as a sign of respect and humility, as well as to maintain cleanliness. Students bow on the way in and out to show respect for the dojang itself, as well as the national flags that hang there. Excessive noise and talking are discouraged to allow students to focus attention on the Master and what they are learning. Horseplay is not allowed to ensure safety as well as a reminder of the seriousness of what is learned there.
The dojang is a mirror of life. In the dojang we experience all the emotions of life: joy, pain, pride of accomplishment, frustration, fear, failure, sorrow. By facing these feelings and emotions in the microcosm of the structured, regulated dojang, we learn to deal with them. Learn to deal with them inside the dojang, and you can deal with them outside the dojang. The dojang is a school....a place of learning. Some lessons are easy....others hard and some even painful. Most everything that is done by the Master Instructor has purpose or meaning.
The hardest part of any journey is the courage to take the first step. I can't tell you how many times people have told me, " I've always wanted to try the martial arts". My advice is always the same....Just get on the mat!
Keep training hard!
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Black Belt Spirit
A parent stopped me in the hall between classes the other day. "Master Mast, you mentioned 'Black Belt spirit' several times during your speech at the Annual Banquet. What exactly does this mean"?
I was stunned. First because someone was actually listening to me. And second, because it was such a great question! I had to stop, because I don't think "Black Belt Spirit", was ever defined for me. It was always just ubiquitous...out there...described by instructors and Masters. "you must have black belt spirit"....this or that action was great "black belt spirit".
Surprisingly, if you Google it, nothing comes up by way of a definition. A school in France, some ads for watches, but no definition. How is this possible? I know it exists. Why has no one defined it before?
So here goes...and this is what I told her.
Black Belt spirit begins with the physical training of Taekwondo. The years of training, dedication and tireless practice to develop strength, stamina, quickness, flexibility, coordination, and balance.
Add to this the 5 tenets of Taekwondo: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indomitable Spirit. These 5 words start out as just that...words that are recited. Memorized for a test, or quiz to be regurgitated to the Master. Slowly, over time, lessons of the dojang begin to color other aspects of life. The lessons that occur IN the dojang, start to influence life OUT of the dojang. Mind, body and spirit become unified and transformed. The individual begins to embody and incorporate these tenets into their life, their person, the way the deal with others. In addition to the 5 tenets, Black Belt Spirit includes confidence, leadership, grace-under-fire, compassion, empathy, caring, and humility.
After a person internalizes these traits, believes in them, and starts to live their life by them, they begin to radiate from the individual. They become easily seen and experienced by fellow martial artists, and non-martial artists in their life.
To become a Black Belt is to become a warrior and to carry on a tradition of warriors. Not a warrior in the sense of someone that kills, or injures others for pleasure. But a warrior of spirit. The ability to live in balance of all things that are good, and kind, and beautiful...and in an instant.... transform in both mind and body to a deadly warrior capable of destruction.
The Japanese have a term....Bushido...meaning, "The Warrior's Way". A code to live, serve and die by. Black Belt Spirit is today's Bushido.
In today's society and culture that is sometimes too fast, too rude, too self-centered, too lazy, it is good for us to be stewards of this ancient Bushido Way.
Train hard!
I was stunned. First because someone was actually listening to me. And second, because it was such a great question! I had to stop, because I don't think "Black Belt Spirit", was ever defined for me. It was always just ubiquitous...out there...described by instructors and Masters. "you must have black belt spirit"....this or that action was great "black belt spirit".
Surprisingly, if you Google it, nothing comes up by way of a definition. A school in France, some ads for watches, but no definition. How is this possible? I know it exists. Why has no one defined it before?
So here goes...and this is what I told her.
Black Belt spirit begins with the physical training of Taekwondo. The years of training, dedication and tireless practice to develop strength, stamina, quickness, flexibility, coordination, and balance.
Add to this the 5 tenets of Taekwondo: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indomitable Spirit. These 5 words start out as just that...words that are recited. Memorized for a test, or quiz to be regurgitated to the Master. Slowly, over time, lessons of the dojang begin to color other aspects of life. The lessons that occur IN the dojang, start to influence life OUT of the dojang. Mind, body and spirit become unified and transformed. The individual begins to embody and incorporate these tenets into their life, their person, the way the deal with others. In addition to the 5 tenets, Black Belt Spirit includes confidence, leadership, grace-under-fire, compassion, empathy, caring, and humility.
After a person internalizes these traits, believes in them, and starts to live their life by them, they begin to radiate from the individual. They become easily seen and experienced by fellow martial artists, and non-martial artists in their life.
To become a Black Belt is to become a warrior and to carry on a tradition of warriors. Not a warrior in the sense of someone that kills, or injures others for pleasure. But a warrior of spirit. The ability to live in balance of all things that are good, and kind, and beautiful...and in an instant.... transform in both mind and body to a deadly warrior capable of destruction.
The Japanese have a term....Bushido...meaning, "The Warrior's Way". A code to live, serve and die by. Black Belt Spirit is today's Bushido.
In today's society and culture that is sometimes too fast, too rude, too self-centered, too lazy, it is good for us to be stewards of this ancient Bushido Way.
Train hard!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)