How to Stay Inspired After Reaching Black Belt

Several months ago, I posed a question to my Facebook friends about what martial arts topics they wanted me to cover. Slowly but surely, I’m making my way around to each of them. My friend and former colleague Jeff Tillett asked me my thoughts on staying inspired after black belt. This list is by no means… Continue reading How to Stay Inspired After Reaching Black Belt

Review: The Way to Black Belt is Great for Students, Advanced Ranks and Instructors

Whether you’re a brand-new martial arts student or seeking promotion to any level, Lawrence A. Kane and Kris Wilder’s The Way to Black Belt: A Comprehensive Guide to Rapid, Rock-Solid Results is a great resource. The authors include a wealth of information, including quotes from other martial arts instructors and students, for students who are… Continue reading Review: The Way to Black Belt is Great for Students, Advanced Ranks and Instructors

A Brief History of Okinawan Karate

I’ve studied Okinawan karate for nearly a decade, though interestingly enough, I’ve focused mainly on the movements. Only within the last several years have I made a pointed effort to start digging deeper to discover the roots of my art. The history and culture surrounding the martial arts, and especially Okinawan karate, are as interesting… Continue reading A Brief History of Okinawan Karate

Richard Clear Brings His Tai Chi to Peoria

In what turned out to be a fantastic early birthday present to myself, I attended Mr. Richard Clear’s free tai chi seminar in Peoria last Friday night. While I did not attend his paid sessions due to other commitments, I found the free session enlightening. I was asked if I’d learned anything during the session,… Continue reading Richard Clear Brings His Tai Chi to Peoria