Come off it! Get On it

Greetings and happy new year to you all. I sit here drinking a Beck's Blue contemplating how January really is the "Shithole" of the year! (political joke) It's dark, cold and windy, most of us last got paid four weeks ago (spent it all) and have another three weeks to go until next instalment. On top of that, many of us have given up our vices AND are on a diet!!  Sheesh! we sure pile stuff on, even after the stress of the festive season. Friday past (Jan 12th) is statistically the day that most people fail their resolution for the new year, that was the day I started to teach a new programme to a few brave souls. It is going to be hard work but I hope they enjoy and excel.

One thing that Combat Arts has over other parts of the fitness industry is the inherent discipline drilled into us, hopefully from day one. It is discipline that will get us through this month and it is discipline that will help us achieve what we want! It is by no means easy to remain disciplined, especially at this time of year.

The other thing rampant in Combat Arts sadly, is Bullshit! Some of it is harmless of course, like y'know, marketing, but some is not so harmless. I have been thinking about it a while and even brought it up at the Five Thunder training weekend. For a long time Martial Arts and particularly Traditional ones hid behind the idea that technique will better anything. Technique is key, I heard it often. Of course it's important but too much reliance on that idea makes people lethargic. Hence we can find 400lb Masters around the world.  That works if you're a Wrestling Master, not so great in other styles Karate/TKD/Kung Fu etc. It also doesn't set a great example for a younger person to follow. Athleticism is vital to success in this game. I'm not "Fat Shaming" or any other nonsense, and I'm not expecting folk to be like Michaelangelo's David. But we must implore on our students how important it is to lead an active life. We are in this ultimately for longevity and that means looking after the machines that the universe gifted us.

With athleticism as the base we will find it easier to employ tactics. If we know for example, we have a good range of motion or the ability to explosively move laterally, then we have a tactic we can use! If the body is healthy and is able to use its full physical potential then the potentiality of the technique increases. The scope of times it can be used also extends. Yes good technique also builds the body, of that I do not doubt. But think of a car with great body work and amazing custom wheels, how useful is it if the engine belongs in Del Boy's three wheeler?

To Boldly Go

These are the voyages of the Breakthrough Enterprise! Where have I been the past few weeks? Well, I'll tell you and in my telling also announce that I'm reaching out for your help. Let us go back to the beginning...

Breakthrough was created many years ago by a young man who could see the flaws in Martial Art Association politics. The gift of learning new skills often tainted by a cold undercurrent of egotism and the need to yield a profit. Misunderstood movements regurgitated by a xeroxed instructor, fabrications, tall tales and exaggerations. Martial Arts are incredibly easy to mock and many of us don't do ourselves or our students any favours by acting on automatic pilot without self critique. Fast forward a bit and Breakthrough Combat Arts became a thing. In it I found a way to authentically express myself and demonstrate the few arts that I have the privilege to espouse. My own study, free from the coerced navigation of others, I was free to explore combative movement, make my own mistakes and my own discoveries. My true driving force for the study: the interplay between the Yin and the Yang aspects in a fighting environment. The idea that humans are designed to survive and that we are very good at it when our intelligence advocates the use of technology, but what do we do when we have nothing but fear and fist? When we are completely free to find out, ie when we do not merely perform a dictated syllabus, we not only learn the art deeper but we learn its place in our  nature.

Associations are like tools, and they should be used to facilitate growth, through support, authentic guidance and platforms in which we can pit ourselves against others. They should never have the right to tell us who to train with or what to learn. Any limitation placed upon us should be down to our own short-comings, they should never be in the constitution of a third party. Associations should be used as tools as we tread our own path.

As previously stated Martial Arts are easy to mock, but authentic arts and authentic people provide a far greater and more secure reason to train. They give back!

Talking from a personal POV but by no means a unique one to this industry, I have provided training for youth projects. Letting kids that had gone awry the ability to focus that angst they felt into more productive outlets. I have taught Tai Chi to teachers to hopefully promote calmness in their working day. I also used Tai Chi to aid stroke recovery and pain management. I have used both internal arts and external arts to battle the most fearsome of foes: addiction.

I have been doing it for so long it has become my routine, but there is nothing routine about it. Then the penny dropped, it is here I will find my purpose. Breakthrough Boxing and Combat Arts is set to evolve further. I aim to guide it towards a social enterprise, where all the things that we all ready stand for become available to more.

The past few weeks I have worked on a business plan, ran the numbers, met with the experts. Talked and talked, meeting after meeting. viewed and researched commercial property.
"How can I?"
"How do you?"
"When is it best to?"
"Do you think I?"
"What are the possibilities of?"

I have received a wealth of support from both like minded and non like minded people. There is never a bad time in which to give back to a community but it certainly feels like a good time to be trying!

The vision is simple, a full time facility dedicated to the community promoting wellness through movement. Providing a programme and access for talented youths to progress to the next level of competition, be it National, European, International or even Olympic. Fitness, Fun and Family, surely the three greatest blocks on which to build a future.

I've done the groundwork and it has left me exhausted, but in the best way. People are good and people want to help. Do you want to help? Tell someone what I'm doing, let me hear your ideas. We succeed by reaching out and seeking help.

Conor V Floyd, What didn't we learn?

August 26th 2017, Vegas baby! Our generation was lucky enough to witness the biggest pop culture event in a long time. It wasn't a sporting event per se, but it was hyped as such. It was, in fact, the highest grossing Combat sport event of all time, an historic billion dollar draw never before seen in Boxing or MMA, and it has changed the landscape of both sports forever. For that we can be glad, I have been an avid spectator, competitor and coach of combat sports for a long time, and after some initial scepticism, found myself really looking forward to the event. "The Money Fight", the circus that was, and still is, just over a week later.

The event itself went exactly the way many had predicted, a convincing victory to Floyd Mayweather Jnr. Many people wished Conor McGregor, the UFC poster boy, the very best but many had their doubts. Realistically a talented amateur cannot compete against a seasoned pro in a straight boxing match. Yet even in defeat, the overall press coverage has been that of generous support to the younger Irishman.

I appreciate first hand (as a Coach for over 15 years) the need to manage expectations in junior competitors and the reasons to elevate someone in defeat. Lessons should be learned in both victory and defeat but they are dished out more harshly in the latter, that is by no means a reason to circumvent them. This is what brings me most concern with regard to the events of August 26th.

The spectacle, and indeed it was a spectacle, saw the sound defeat of a man who had moved too fast into an arena that was not his usual place of work. Some say he acquitted himself most valiantly even in his defeat but the experienced eye can see further. Truthfully, and as difficult it may be to accept, Conor McGregor was never once in control of the fight. He comes from a different sport, he comes from a different skill set and he comes from a combat sport with an entirely different rhythm.

Boxing has been misunderstood by many for many years. Once it was  a staple in the British Schooling system, then the perpetuation of the misunderstanding meant it was removed, deemed brutal and thuggish. A sport practised by brutes who knew no better. The sweet science of pugilism completely overlooked, timing, discipline, body mechanics, strategy all to be replaced by a more brutal, some would argue more accessible combat sport. Boxing has been around in some form since late 1800. It has defined and redefined its sweet science over that time and in Floyd Mayweather we can see the greatest execution of it.

Conor moves well and is the dominant fighter in his arena and all credit to him for that but he made a single, yet massive, error in training camp. He did not seek the knowledge of a Boxing Coach. It showed on the night, sorry to be so "matter of fact" about it, but the truth remains. He is a popular character and everyone loves an underdog but we should not side step the truth of his performance. His stance too wide, his punches too weak, his cardio vascular ability too limited.

Yes, people will remember the uppercut which landed squarely on Mayweather's jaw for a long time. Full and flush on a diminished champion, but it didn't put him down, it didn't even slightly faze him. If a boxer had landed it, that would've been it for an aged champion.

Truth is, Boxing is a young man's sport, and Floyd Mayweather is no longer a young man. In the past week we have celebrated the bravery of McGregor and how well he fought on the night. Few have celebrated the veteran, who stepped out of retirement after some 700 days plus of inactivity and never once looked shaky in his performance.

It was by the book and executed to perfection. As a coach, I listened with interest to the pep talks between rounds. John Kavanagh telling Conor he was "looking great" even allowing himself to be talked over by his second. Offering very little in an arena he knew little about. Mayweather, so skilled in his boxing, broke all the rules that made him a champion for over 20 years. Walking forward hands raised, taking punches (more punches that any other fighter had landed on him) because he had nothing to fear from the "greatest striker in UFC". One of the biggest insults that a boxer can do is throw and land a right hand lead, it intimates a dominance that the opponent cannot match, Mayweather scored this successfully almost every time he chose to use it!

If Conor wishes to box again he must seek the advice of someone who understands the art form that is boxing. It is not what many think it is, but maybe some saw it for what it truly can be on August 26th.

A Study of Rhythm, Conor V Floyd

I have always adhered to the idea that principles of combat are more usefully instilled in a practitioner than actual technique. During periods of high stress for eg. a fight, for most, technique diminishes. Understanding the principles inherent in conflict, aids the best choice and the more efficient use of tactic or movement. This allows for a more free and fluid state of body. One of the big things here, which makes or breaks a fight, is the use of rhythm. This is why McGregor v Mayweather is a mismatch but perhaps for a different reason than you might think.

Now, I've been fairly verbose in my condemnation of the UFC, if not on the pages of this blog then in real life. This makes me a rarer case of having bigger "real life balls" than that of "Facebook Balls", however I am an admirer of the training Conor employs. It is very much around the basics of movement and is obviously heavily influenced by the instruction of Ido Portal. This will certainly assist him more in his preparation to fight with, without a doubt, the greatest defensive boxer of all time. Will it be enough? I am interested to find out.

I actually did some video work for this blog, which now has in the region of 400 regular readers, so cheers for that folks! My body is pretty mashed up these days and kicking is becoming a real problem. I hope you can appreciate the fact that I have hobbled around for the past 4 days after making the short vids. It is worth it, as they say "a picture says a thousand words".

Rhythm is essential to combat and each combat art form has a unique one. I concentrated on 3 so you can see the differences.

1. BOXING

I am of course talking generally here, there are many deviations and exceptions to all the examples I give. Boxing rhythm is generally even paced with fast bursts of grouped punches. The momentum is generally forward and cyclical. Even weight distribution and with a high guard kept tight to the body.

2. Muay Thai

Thai boxing is generally at a slower pace which increases in intensity over the rounds. It operates at a different range obviously, as the legs are used for both offensive and defensive purpose. The body is still upright with the guard held higher and the elbows further from the body. The weight is distributed slightly more to the rear. Punches and kicks are grouped, when operating outwith the clinch the strikes are thrown in more of a loop.

3. Point/Semi Contact Freestyle

Stood side on and generally fought at a faster pace, freestyle has a more forward to backward shifting of the weight. Side kicks are employed more as are shots put together as two's or three's. The body is lower, with a slight crouch. The hands are low, sometimes even below the waist if the competitor is advanced enough. It is generally linear when it comes to attacking, these are thrown quickly with the full body behind them.

Three very distinct rhythms, which in effect, MMA  has to operate over at any given time. There is no judgement here on which one is the more efficient. Each has merit and pitfall depending on your desired outcome. The below video is an attempt at illustrating the striking rhythm of MMA, grappling aside. Look how it compares to the boxing one in the context of the Conor/Floyd fight..

I was hugely sceptical of the event happening on August 26th but my mind has changed. I look forward to it greatly, if only out of my interest in Combative Art movement. Truth is, it is very difficult to make any kind of prediction. I would say this though, whoever figures out "the beat" on the night, will be the one that delivers the beating.

If you want to experience my thoughts and teaching methods why not join me at the Five Thunder training weekend where I'll be talking about some of the stuff above and general Strike IQ. There are a host of other instructors too and plenty art forms available to experience. For more details follow the link.

http://www.fivethunder.com/index.php/seminars/events/weekend-training-camp

Where can your mind take you?...

...Well, it's very nuanced and the answer depends on many different factors. Your mind can take you to the very edge of our universe or deep into the depths of our consciousness, but only if you let it. It has a  vast spectrum, allowing you to be anything from a fighter pilot in a space battle to a lottery winner. (In my youth I saved Earth so many times and now each week I think how I could do it again if only my numbers came up) Your mind is a very useful and motivating tool, but it is linked inextricably to the vehicle that is your body. They don't always go to the same destination but they are a very fine double act.

The power of visualisation is real; science has in various studies linked enhanced performance to previsualisation. In one study, two groups of athletes completed deadlifts. One group visualising the set before performing the set, the other not, with an increase of successful reps and a higher weight going to those who did. A clear example, easily recreated, of mind over matter. It pays to believe in yourself. Look at Conor McGregor! I won't go into the upcoming spectacle between him and Mayweather, as there is plenty commentary out there. Despite your feelings about him, he is not short of self belief and he is now in one of the most financially lucrative ventures in the history of Combat sports. Love him or loathe him, he made it happen!

But back to the question in hand. Mind and body linked like Yin and Yang. Speaking as an aged fighter/competitor coupled with my exploration of spirituality I see and feel the link clearly, perhaps more than some. As I have aged, I have both raised and declined in different aspects. My need to inflict punishment on another has dwindled, but my mind has not ceased from the idea of inflicting same said punishment on myself. I have stopped competing against others and found my real nemesis, turns out it's fucking me :)
I continue to put my body through rigours I perhaps don't really need to. I do that not just because of historical routine and ego but also through self belief. My mind is convinced I can be better, because I have allowed it, through time, to repeatedly go there.

A word of caution, a mind knows no limits unless you yourself impose them on it. This is a double edged sword. Too much "looking in the other direction" when it comes to human reality can cause physical harm. I've seen guys that listen to the Rocky soundtrack too much and not put in the graft during class/sparring/gym. Almost inevitably they get their face burst wide open.

The mind body link works both ways. Spend time cultivating both the link and the individual parts. Father time couldn't care less about your mind or your body, he will take both if you drop your guard. Good exercise regimes keep the mind sharp, a sharp mind keeps you understanding the importance of physical condition. If the mind wants to go somewhere it's easier when the vehicle is able. Each requires effort and time devoted specifically to them.

It's what "Breakthrough" is all about. Understanding through application. The movements we teach are just as functional as the calm we prescribe for your mind.

Authentic Arts

There are a five stages of development we pass through on our Martial Journey. Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, Role Model and finally Perfection. The key is to aim for the next step up the ladder, ie if you are a beginner aim to be intermediate, if intermediate aim to be advanced, advanced strive to be a role model. If through your efforts you find yourself becoming a role model then the next progression would be perfection. Perfection, however, is only something that you can hope and aspire to without actually achieving. It's more that perfection arises from the act of striving. In this way of thinking, it means you can be a perfect beginner, intermediate or advanced practitioner. You still with me?

It also implies that you can be a perfect role model, despite our human frailties and fallibility. No human is perfect, so how do we circumvent this painful truth? Well I have put my mind to it and the closest thing that we can be to perfect, is to be authentic. Authentic with our hopes, our hearts, our aspirations and the way in which we express them. When it comes to authenticity within martial arts it is quite clear to note the ones that are, and the ones that are not. The word "Martial" stems from the God of War so infers anything warlike. Therefore I put it to you plainly that if you do not get bruised, battered or break a few minor bones then you are not participating authentically. Every measure is taken to provide safe practise by most legitimate teachers and instructors but bumps and bruises are inevitable. Like the fight club analogy how much can you truly know about yourself (and by extension your art) if you don't have scars?

And in life too we carry our scars, sometimes unseen but still there. They do not show weakness, they in fact show the strength of experience. Experience comes from long term practise, and long term practise implies you have passed through at least two stages of development perhaps more, beginner, intermediate and advanced.

You can be more, much more than any of these. Perfection is the thread that runs through them all and perfection, in my mind at least, equates to authenticity. Don't fool yourself or worse fool others around you. Express your short comings truthfully, honestly there is nothing more perfect. To be authentic, is to be a role model for all humanity. There is no other way.

"Life requires movement"

"Life requires movement" was stated by Aristotle. Humans have used it as a method of expression for a long long time. We gesticulate when we tell stories, our excitement and effusiveness seemingly unable to be contained within the physical body. We move mostly for joy, we dance, our body racks with laughter, we reach out and we touch our friends, family and loved ones like an affirmation of our physical existence in relation to their presence. We need them, as they need us and it is our body that belies the separation from them. It's beautiful! I was very lucky to have such a week as last week which saw me take on two (on the surface) vastly different seminars. Both were very expansive and brought me great joy.

On Tuesday, Edinburgh held the honour of hosting Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei. Master Chen is a 19th generation member of the "royal family" of Taijiquan and 11th generation direct successor and keeper of Chen Style Tai Chi. The gravity of the situation is difficult to comprehend, but the truth of the matter is that it was a fairly important moment in the history of Tai Chi in the UK. GM Chen has visited the UK previously but has never been as far north as the Scottish Capital. His arrival in town is demonstrative of the hard work people such as Li Ho (my friend and colleague)  and others have put into the development of Chen in Scotland. GM Chen arrived along with Master Kuang.  I've had the opportunity to train with Master Kuang in China, he is a Northern region push hand champion in China and a student of my Master Liming Yue. He has gone on to become a Master in his own right and that gives me hope albeit a bit wishful thinking :)

Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei is almost 70 years old, but he moves with the grace, poise and power of someone much less advanced in years. His life has been devoted to movement and the spiritual acquisition that implies. His energy release, which is a very important factor in Chen style Tai Chi is tantamount to the sonic boom Guile delivers in the Street Fighter video games. Perhaps this short video doesn't give justice but GM Chen Zhengei's presence is quite something to behold up close.

Chen Zhenglei in Edinburgh

He spoke favourably about Edinburgh, he said he was in awe of its beauty. He went on to speak about the importance of Tai Chi. Specifically the three main reasons it is important to learn. A study had taken place at the Ivy league Universities in the US to establish just what it is that is required in a sport to facilitate well-being. It seems on this academic level all other Olympic sports had fallen short. GM Chen identified three factors:

1. It must be a movement that can be practised in Leisure time
2. The movement must consider the natural oxygen process
3. The movement must consider longevity of practise

Simple guidance and wisdom only an aged Master can highlight!

Later in the week I attended a workshop called Strength and Mobility for the Combat Athlete. I wholeheartedly accept that I am no longer an athlete, but my years of pain and sacrifice justified my presence on the workshop. It too was enlightening and expansive, teaching me that strength is a skill that can be improved upon given time and correct technique. I learned many drills around mobility, strength and dexterity each of which will help me develop. Understanding your baselines as a human, ie what you can and can't do, stands you in great stead for you realising just what it is you are capable of.

It's not mystical, it is about self reflection. Identifying what you can do to improve, even listening to people who have done it for you is key. There is a wealth of knowledge out there and it is not just for a privileged few. It's for anyone and everyone. I can only invite you to come and train but you have to RSVP. There are no short cuts, life requires movement.