Martial Arts Magazine Budo International 509 – January – 2025
In a street fight the confrontation almost always takes place at close range, Trapping, the most dangerous and effective distance in combat, where we fight body to body and there is constant contact between our arms and those of our opponent. In the OLIVA Combat System (O.C.S.), the movements are fluid, not prescribed and the position of the legs is constantly changing freely. The objective is to confront and overcome all the difficulties and obstacles that we may encounter in our line of attack by combining elements such as LapSao, Pak-Sao, Gunting, Hubad, chain punches, elbow strikes, knee strikes, headbutts, eye strikes and the development of Chi-Sao and Lap-Sao sensitivity exercises.... Combat Trapping is an effective combat system, aimed at law enforcement officers, but also adapted to civilian use. The techniques, based on simplicity and logic, result in a simple and effective defense strategy. O.C.S. is a professional system in constant development, focused on pure and hard street combat. This system teaches us to deal with stress, to learn to control situations under great psychological pressure. Never forget that self-defense must be functional, simple and effective. The goal is survival, so be direct, attack with vigor and be as effective as possible, and always remember rule number 1: “In the street there are no rules”.
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International, si provided and alone in the formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the like is however neves offered with a special holograma sticker. Besides our DVD is characteristed coverings by the hig quality in pressure and material. If this DVD and/or the DVD covering do not corespond to the requirements specified above, it concerns illegal pirat copy.
Avi Nardia presents a complete work on pistol disarming, filmed during a workshop at Master John Machado's BJJ Academy in Texas, USA. Starting from extremely simple movements, Professor Nardia shows in detail and in a progressive way various methods of disarming against pistol threats in many different situations, pistol from the front, from behind, from the side, from the knees or even while driving our car. We will see the classic “x” and its variants, the spoon, the “Baseball Choke”, the assassin, the magician, ... all of them very simple movements based on the SPEC concept (Secure, Position, Effect, Distance), and of course, combined with classic elements and techniques of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (Armbar, headlock, levers, sweeps, etc). We must play with the movements, try all situations and know how to adjust our body, because in the street nothing is written.
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International, si provided and alone in the formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the like is however neves offered with a special holograma sticker. Besides our DVD is characteristed coverings by the hig quality in pressure and material. If this DVD and/or the DVD covering do not corespond to the requirements specified above, it concerns illegal pirat copy.
Join the greats! Join the greats!
Dates: May 16, 17 and 18, 2025 Dates: May 16, 17 and 18, 2025
Join the greats! Join the greats!
Dates: May 16, 17 and 18, 2025 Dates: May 16, 17 and 18, 2025
BUDO MASTERS 2025
The event:
As usual, (only stopped by the pandemic) Budo International magazine has the honor to gather periodically its friends in a big international event.
The objective is to meet again, make new friends, exchange experiences, contacts, learn from each other, always in an atmosphere of camaraderie, honor and respect.
The event consists of a great seminar on Saturday held together, where attendees will rotate to learn with all the Masters.
That same night will take place the Grand Gala Dinner, with traditional Canarian food and special performances, culminating with the presentation of diplomas to the Masters, photographs, etc ....
Being in this event means belonging (or entering) to an exclusive club governed by honor and good manners, directed by our director Mr. Alfredo Tucci. It also implies, as it is logical, to appear in the special magazine that will be made about the event, as it is customary.
A video will also be made about all the activities.
This time we have chosen the privileged environment of the Canary Islands, between Europe and America, with an extraordinary climate and spectacular beauty, in front of the beach of Las Canteras.
The Canary Islands are a tourist destination with a wide service and magnificent international connections that undoubtedly facilitate the meeting.
Price:
The price for participating in the event is 210 euros; this fee includes attendance to the Gala Dinner and participation as a teacher together with the international Grand Masters in the Saturday seminar.
Attendees are requested to observe proper etiquette at the dinner: Women: long dress; men: tuxedo, tie, traditional formal attire (kimono etc...) or Guayabera.
To appear on the poster of the event must confirm their attendance, and new participants must have paid their fee. To do so contact Alfredo Tucci via email at: budo@budointernational.com
Extra activities:
The team of the friends of the Federation of Garrote Canario, is preparing a whole series of special parallel activities for the attendees, provided and facilitated by the local authorities, which can be consulted later. (Surfing, local Martial Arts exhibitions, garrote Canario, lucha Canaria, excursions, beach events, etc... etc...).
Methods of payment:
Transfer of 210 euros to the account of La Caixa
BUDO MASTER CANARIAS 2025
IBAN ES34 2100 6769 7202 0044 7308
There are two hotels to choose to attend the event. The NH Imperial Playa **** and the NH Playa Las Canteras *** offering a wide range of conditions and prices to our participants.
To make your reservations with special prices for the BUDO MASTERS in one or the other hotel and to confirm prices of stay, days, etc... use this link:
The Gala dinner will take place at the NH Imperial Playa. Companion price: €75
N.B. (The registration in the hotel does not mean the registration in the event. This must be done separately by bank transfer, as indicated on the previous page).
Dates: May 16, 17 and 18, 2025
Dates: May 16, 17 and 18, 2025
Amunt Valencia! Amunt Valencia!
(Long live Valencia)
The waters came down like a tsunami from the mountains, sweeping away lives, farms and hopes, bringing stupor, pain, death and despair. We felt the blow here, but itzs echo reverberated around the world.
In these fateful days, many have contacted me, some friends and people who have not spoken to me for years, had a moment of concern and remembrance for which I am grateful. Fortunately, for me and mine, nothing bad happened, but no one, humanly sensitive, can remain unaware of the consequences of this disaster. As I write these lines the atmosphere is unbreathable, wherever you go you perceive nervousness, anger, rage and a deaf silence made of a mixture of pain and fear.
Natural disasters are a constant in the Spanish Levant, and even though the spokesmen of climate change want to profit from this powerful wave of indignation, the Valencians know well that the current “danas” are nothing more than the same “cold drops” of yesteryear.
Modern humans living in the garden, where we want to ignore that the real nature is the surrounding jungle. “Climate change” is a pleonasm, because the climate never stops changing, but with this statement they want to sell us a specific ideological discourse, behind which all kinds of outrages, maneuvers and impositions are justified to limit the freedom, good judgment and fair understanding of the impaired brains of our fellow citizens of the first world through the guilt of the ‘terminal sin’ (opposite and complementary to the ‘original’) of the new religion, environmentalism. Every hundred years or so, in the Spanish Levant, the sky falls on the earth and the consequences are never pleasant.
Then we look for the culprits, because anger requires raising scaffolds and it is better to hang someone by the thumbs than to accept our eternal smallness in the face of forces that surpass us.
That said, the reaction to disasters has left us with two well-defined faces: First, the incompetence of politicians to manage extraordinary situations. Second, the unquestionable wave of solidarity of the citizens, who as always, in this country of quixotes, have rolled up their sleeves, put on their boots and got down to work, while the institutions, astonished, were more concerned about their seats and royalties than about the reality in the streets.
It has become clear what we already knew... politics is full of incompetents who dedicate themselves to it, because in civil life they would have no choice; they are the Razzadannata who place their friends and surround themselves with people, not for their value, but because they cannot overshadow them; wretches who practice nepotism and squandering, encouraging projects that are children of their personal life choices, with which they devastate the public expense account. They are so “advised” and yet, when necessary, they do not know how to make a single correct decision.
The Valencian people, historically horticulturalists attached to the land, people with their feet on the ground, and who like to party and make noise, still possess an exceptional vigor that distinguishes them from other Spanish regions. When I arrived here, 14 years ago, I discovered that this character makes him a strange mixture of anarchist and dictator, depending on where he applies his efforts. The first thing that surprised me was that even back then they still owned the streets. You could see it in the way they drove their cars, in the way they took their chairs out into the streets at dusk in the summer and on 10 days a year, they took to the streets to even cook on them, and of course, burn things in a big way, ostentatiously claiming their ownership of the public space. In any other place in Spain all this was unthinkable just five years ago.
In spite of the fact that successive leftist local governments have been taming these feral citizens with countless laws, bike lanes, pedestrianizations, etc. trying to teach them how to live their lives, and the consequences of their decisions... creating traffic jams, when before there were none, and prohibiting everything possible, the Valencian and his “fallas” were still there, against all odds.
Amunt Valencia! Amunt Valencia!
(Long live Valencia)
The “sinister” (in every sense of the word) city councilors, aware that “Las Fallas” were enemies of their discourse, took away days of revelry, froze subsidies, and limited the festive spaces; However, in the end, every year, these anarchists of the public, armed with their gunpowder and rockets, went out to break the limits of political correctness with their statuesque satires, releasing the bulls in the streets, in this celebration, as pagan, as religious, as horticultural, as luxurious, and that has not yet been born who can stop it.
With this character, I already warned my friends, “politicians be careful, you don't play with these people...”. So, when the aforementioned, hiding behind the king and queen, poked their heads out of ground zero of the disaster, they were greeted with sticks, mud balls and shouts of murderers. Anger and indignation for the inefficiency, sliminess and cowardice of these people, jumped through the air and those images went around the world.
Farmers, as an archetype, are people who stick to reality, hard people who are hard on nature, people who do not “eat shit”; people of bread, bread, and wine, wine, people who, although they clench their fists to withstand and overcome the forces of nature like no one else, hate rhetoric and recognize the impostor who takes off his tie and his tight fashionable suit for a day, to try to pass himself off as one of them.
They came for wool and left sheared!
Valencia comes from “Valentía” Careful with the Valencians!
“Farmers,
as an archetype,
are people glued
hard people who faja
people
to reality,
with nature,
who do not “eat shit”; people of bread, bread, and wine, wine, people, who while clenching his fist to endure and overcome the forces of nature like no one else, hates rhetoric and recognizes the impostor who takes off for a day the tie and the tight little fashionable suit, to try to pass himself off as one more of them.”
They came for wool and left sheared! Valencia comes from “Valentía”
Careful with the Valencians!”
Enrique de Vicente interview to
Shidoshi Alfredo Tucci on his youtube channel about Ebunto Japanese Shamanism of the indigenous people of Japan
Enrique de Vicente interview to Shidoshi Alfredo Tucci on his youtube channel about Ebunto Japanese Shamanism of the indigenous people of Japan
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Avi Nardia Academy: Sharing the Swordsman's Way with the World
For decades, Avi Nardia has been synonymous with excellence in martial arts and security training. Now, he embarks on a new journey to share his evolving vision with the world. Through Avi Nardia Academy, Avi introduces a structured, principle-based approach that draws on his experience across martial arts and security sectors, offering a system designed to inspire, educate, and protect.
As a long-time student and collaborator of Avi Nardia, I have had the privilege of helping refine how this unique system is taught and disseminated. This article aims not only to showcase Avi's exceptional journey but also to provide insight into the evolution of his system, including my role in making these teachings accessible to a broader audience.
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Why Evolve? A Journey of Growth and Adaptation
Avi Nardia's journey has not been without challenges. When Avi first entered the commercial self-defense market to bring his ideas to the world, he was called a fraud, despite his official appointments as trainer and creator of the defense tactics program used by the YAMAM. Avi was selected from among many styles and systems to teach Israel’s top counterterrorist unit. Many keyboard warriors refuted this, but Avi provided evidence of his official appointments: he was a full member of the team, part of the intelligence unit, and the official trainer for the unit. The truth eventually prevailed, and his system of KAPAP gained popularity.
From there, many opportunists jumped on the bandwagon. Some came with the devious intent of stealing his ideas and passing them off as their own, while others created organizations with the name KAPAP in them. Many simply used the name without actually training with Avi, which led to market confusion, keeping potential genuine students from being exposed to his system.
The inability to secure a trademark for the name KAPAP further complicated matters, leading Avi to make the difficult decision to rebrand what he teaches under his own name. This evolution allows Avi to ensure that the many styles and systems he has developed reside under a unified banner that truly represents his vision and dedication.
The martial arts landscape is always changing, and practitioners must adapt to stay relevant. Avi Nardia's decision to evolve his system is born from a deep understanding that martial arts are more than just techniques—they are a way of life, guided by a swordsman's spirit of humility, courage, and dedication. The system that Avi now teaches has evolved with more robust drills and ideas, continually adapting to modern needs.
This new direction embodies two core pillars: the Martial Arts Division and the Security Consulting & Training Division. The purpose is clear—to bridge the traditional teachings of martial arts with practical modern-day applications, while creating opportunities for personal growth and leadership both on and off the mats.
Avi wants to guide students and instructors to look beyond physical skills, helping them develop a deeper understanding of how martial values apply in everyday life. The new structure is designed to be adaptable, whether one is a beginner looking to develop confidence or a seasoned martial artist wanting to master integrated concepts.
I had the privilege of being with Avi in Belgrade recently, where we shared this vision of the new system with practitioners and students of KAPAP from all over the world. The annual camp in Serbia was held in October 2024. Over three days, we went over drills and concepts with participants, and more importantly, we emphasized that while we welcome anyone with honor and integrity to join us, stressing that our organization is committed to being progressive, transparent, and apolitical.
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What Can Students Expect?
Avi Nardia Academy offers a structured program divided into four levels of training, each building upon the previous: Avi Nardia System (CDC - Close Distance Combat): Close Distance Combat focuses on hand-to-hand engagements. Students of the Close Distance Combat System under Avi Nardia are taught to appreciate the impact of principles. The eight principles that govern CDC are:
1. Right to Engage: Understanding the legal, moral, and ethical boundaries in dealing with an engagement. This is something I term the ELM Test. All decisions for engagements must be supported ethically, legally, and morally. Practitioners must rationalize these aspects in their training as part of a complete system of personal safety.
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2. Relative Position: This refers to maintaining advantageous positions. We should work at fortifying our position in relation to the person(s) we are engaging. This advantage can be assessed from three aspects, covered by the 3M—Mathematical Advantage, Mechanical Advantage, and Mapping Advantage.
3. Balance: Recognizing how our balance and that of the person(s) we engage can impact an outcome. Displacing the opponent's balance while maintaining one's own dynamic and static balance allows for more effective deployment of tactics and techniques. This principle also correlates with the concept of Three Dimensionality.
4. Leverage: Using body mechanics to create advantages that minimize the effort needed to achieve control or apply techniques and desirable outcomes.
5. Three Dimensionality: Considering the physical, emotional, and psychological domains during engagements is a must. Realworld encounters are inherently threedimensional, and training must reflect this. Our proprietary drills and protocols help create neuro-pathways that enhance performance in engagements and develop resilience and a fearless determination.
6. Functional Anatomy & Physiology: Leveraging knowledge of human anatomy and physiology to maximize technique effectiveness and ensure efficient movement.
7. SPEC: SPEC stands for Strategy, Position, Execution, and Control. These key aspects guide a practitioner through planning, positioning, executing techniques, and maintaining control throughout an encounter.
8. Rule + 1: Always consider an additional element—such as an unexpected move, environmental factor, or unseen threat—to stay adaptable and prepared in any situation.
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The four levels of training are as follows:
1. Avi Nardia System Level 1: Simple non-lethal combatives with the use of pressure points as an equalizer. This level emphasizes control and the effective use of non-lethal techniques to manage conflicts.
2. Avi Nardia System Level 2: KAPAP Combatives. This level introduces a more comprehensive approach to hand-tohand combat, combining foundational skills with tactical concepts for threat mitigation.
3. Avi Nardia System Level 3: KAPAP Krav Maga - Israeli Jiu-Jitsu. This advanced level focuses on integrating various combative techniques, incorporating elements from different disciplines such as Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, Karate, Kendo, Muay Thai, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, under the banner of Israeli JiuJitsu. Practitioners at this level engage in practical mixed martial arts.
4. Avi Nardia System Level 4: Integrated Jiu-Jitsu. This level brings together all previous skills and knowledge into a cohesive integrated practice, emphasizing adaptability and the seamless combination of various techniques and disciplines. As Avi Nardia puts it: “To study the old, to understand the new.”
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A Comprehensive Journey for All
Students joining Avi Nardia Academy can expect an enriching journey that goes beyond learning how to fight. Here are some of the core experiences awaiting them:
1. A Principle-Based Approach: Avi's system isn't focused solely on techniques but on understanding the principles that make those techniques work. Whether it’s Judo, Brazilian JiuJitsu, Muay Thai, or swordsmanship, students learn the underlying concepts that connect different martial arts and how to apply them in varied contexts.
2. Comprehensive Character Development: For younger students, there is a strong focus on character-building through martial arts. Classes foster discipline, confidence, and respect—qualities that are essential in both martial arts and life.
3. Martial Arts as Leadership Training: The academy offers programs such as Corporate Training and Team Building to cultivate resilience, leadership, and the ability to work effectively with others. These skills are valuable in personal relationships, corporate environments, and community settings.
4. An Integrated Martial System: Avi Nardia’s martial arts philosophy integrates different influences, including Japanese, Brazilian, and Israeli Jiu-Jitsu. This unique blend ensures that students have a holistic experience—learning the best from each art in a cohesive manner. Students are challenged to adapt and integrate different ideas, making them more versatile martial artists.
5. Security Expertise with a Martial Foundation: Students interested in security work will find specialized training in fields like Close Protection, VIP Protection, and Active Shooter scenarios. The emphasis is on understanding real-world threats and responding with the confidence and calm of a seasoned practitioner.
6. Instructor Apprenticeship and Mentoring: For those passionate about teaching, Avi Nardia Academy provides mentorship and instructor training. Avi believes in passing on not just skills but also the right mindset and teaching methodologies, creating a new generation of instructors ready to lead with principle and purpose.
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The Path Forward
Avi Nardia's restructured system is a testament to the timelessness of martial arts values, while also ensuring they remain relevant for modern challenges. It's an invitation to anyone seeking not only to strengthen their bodies but also their minds and spirits. Whether you are a martial artist, a corporate professional, a security operative, or simply someone looking for a path of growth, Avi Nardia Academy offers a comprehensive journey.
For Avi, this new structure is about sharing his lifelong dedication in a way that is accessible, impactful, and inclusive. By joining this community, students will find themselves guided by the ideology of a swordsman—embracing discipline, skill, adaptability, and ultimately, a journey toward becoming better human beings.
If you’re ready to explore the warrior within, the doors of Avi Nardia Academy are open to all individuals who share our values.
“Burn
All the Ships!”
To fulfill one’s dreams, there is no path forward without unwavering, 100% commitment. Anything less than total dedication is a mere diversion, an exercise in futility that cannot be considered the genuine pursuit of dream fulfillment. Instead, it becomes a fleeting fantasy—a realm where we imagine ourselves achieving and becoming all that we desire, but without the substance or resolve to make it real. Such imaginings are an exercise in creativity and the boundless expression of our imagination, a beautiful but transient escape. Yet, fantasy, by its nature, is not meant to be taken seriously; it is an ephemeral indulgence, untethered from the demands of reality.
Dream fulfillment, however, is an entirely different matter. It is not the ethereal dance of fantasy but a synthesis of reality, hope, and boundless possibility. It is the culmination of our deepest desires, forged and refined during the innocence of youth, when our hearts were untainted, and the horizon of our imagination stretched infinitely. These dreams are embedded in the very essence of our being, sculpted in the divine artistry of our souls, and touched by the hand of God at the moment of our creation. They are sacred remnants of our truest purpose—what we were meant to pursue when we wandered in childhood wonder, unburdened by the weight of existence, and when all things seemed attainable.
These dreams are, in essence, a remembrance of the Garden of Eden—a profound and subconscious connection to a primordial past when we lived in harmony with the infinite. In those moments, all things were possible, and our burdens were carried not by us, but by God. We thrived in a state of carefree bliss, immersed in the wonderment of creation, our hearts full of joy, and our spirits soaring.
But as we grow, the purity of these dreams becomes clouded, spoiled by the harsh realities of life. The pursuit of our dreams begins to feel arduous, weighed down by struggle, sacrifice, and the unrelenting challenges of existence. This awakening mirrors the moment humanity tasted the forbidden fruit—the moment we gained the knowledge of good and evil. With that knowledge came the heavy burden of self-awareness, responsibility, and toil. The ease and innocence of Eden were replaced by the labor of survival and the complexities of human existence. In our pursuit of dreams, we confront the full weight of this burden, and the path forward demands everything we have to give.
It is fascinating, almost poetic, that the bitten apple—a symbol of humanity’s fall from grace—has become the emblem of one of the most influential modern cultural icons: the logo of the largest technology brand. Does this parallel reflect an accidental coincidence, or does it whisper deeper truths about our nature, our struggles, and the stories we continue to live out as a species?
Realizing the immense hardships and seemingly insurmountable challenges that stand in the way of achieving our deepest desires, most of us retreat. We quit the pursuit of our dreams and instead redirect our efforts toward something more manageable, more practical—something that offers security but lacks the brilliance of what we once envisioned. The majority of us—perhaps as much as 99% of humanity—end up settling for less than what we truly desire. Yet, settling does not extinguish the flame of our passion, nor does it fully quench the thirst of our unfulfilled longings. These dreams do not disappear; they sink deeper into the recesses of our souls, where they ferment, like yeast in a sealed barrel, brewing into bitterness.
This buried passion, left to fester, can distort into something darker. It manifests as discontent, resentment, jealousy, and a host of destructive emotions—precisely the fertile soil upon which evil thrives. These unfulfilled dreams, now tainted with despair, become a source of spiritual vulnerability. Evil’s ultimate objective is to dismantle humanity at its spiritual core, replacing hope with despair, and light with oblivion.
The truth, however, is that the only way to truly fulfill our dreams—the only way to reclaim that light and hope—is to confront, head-on, the hardships and challenges that life inevitably throws in our path. These difficulties are not arbitrary; they are proportional to the magnitude of the dream. The greater the dream, the more formidable the obstacles. This is life’s way, or perhaps God’s way, of testing our resolve. How deeply do we want this? How far are we willing to go? How much of ourselves are we willing to sacrifice? Such trials are not meant to deter us but to refine us. Nothing of value ever comes easily, and it is the very effort, care, thought, and energy we pour into the pursuit that gives our dreams their worth.
"Easy" holds no true value. In fact, the very concept of “easy” is an illusion; even that which appears easy comes with hidden costs, unseen challenges, and subtle sacrifices. To accomplish anything meaningful requires effort, and that effort is what imbues the accomplishment with significance.
Therefore, the true key to fulfilling our dreams lies not in the breadth of our imagination nor in the material advantages we may possess. It resides in our character—our tenacity, perseverance, courage, strength, resilience, fortitude, and discipline. These qualities are not innate but cultivated, often painfully, through the struggles we face in life. They are forged in the fire of hardship, tempered by failure, and polished by suffering. Each trial we endure is an opportunity to grow stronger, braver, and more steadfast in our pursuit.
This philosophy is echoed in the teachings of Hwa Rang Do, where the cultivation of noble human virtues is central to the practice. Through discipline and commitment, practitioners aim to embody the very traits that enable the fulfillment of dreams and the overcoming of adversity. These virtues—tenacity, courage, and resilience—are not just human qualities but divine gifts, instilled by God through the trials and tribulations we encounter. Hardship produces strength. Failure fosters tenacity. Suffering yields courage.
In the end, it is not the absence of struggle but the ability to embrace and overcome it that defines the pursuit of dreams. Our trials are not barriers; they are steppingstones. Each challenge we face brings us closer to the fulfillment of our purpose, to the realization of the life we were meant to live. And in rising to meet these challenges, we honor not only ourselves but the divine spark within us that refuses to settle, that dares to dream.
The concept of “Burn all the Ships” originates from epic battle legends, where warriors, having sailed to enemy shores, faced insurmountable odds and the grim prospect of defeat. In such dire moments, the commanding general would issue a bold and irreversible order: “Burn all the ships.” With their only means of retreat engulfed in flames, the warriors were left with no choice but to press forward into battle with absolute resolve, fighting with every ounce of their strength, for their survival depended entirely on their success. This act was not just about removing the physical option of retreat— it was about forging a mental state of unyielding commitment. The mantra became clear: “Fight or die.”
This same spirit is the mindset we must adopt if we are ever to fulfill our dreams. The pursuit of our dreams requires a level of commitment that leaves no room for escape, no alternatives to fall back on, and absolutely no “Plan B.” To truly succeed, there must be no safety net, no secondary option that undermines our primary goal. Anything less than total, all-encompassing commitment dilutes our effort and fractures our focus.
Many of us, however, create what we call a “Plan B”—a fallback strategy in case our primary goal doesn’t work out. While this might seem pragmatic, it often reflects an underlying lack of confidence in our ability to succeed in Plan A. By creating a Plan B, we are subtly telling ourselves that failure is not only a possibility but an expectation. This mental reservation undermines our resolve, and in truth, our belief in achieving Plan A is compromised from the start.
What’s worse, Plan B often becomes a convenient illusion. It allows us to mask our doubts and insecurities while still appearing ambitious and courageous to others. We tell ourselves that we’re reaching for the stars with Plan A, but deep down, we’re already hedging our bets, placing more faith in the modest, achievable safety of Plan B. This self-deception doesn’t just rob us of success—it also diminishes the authenticity of our ambition. We appear grand in our aspirations, but in reality, we are quietly settling, all the while seeking the approval and admiration of others for a goal we’re not fully committed to.
When you fail at any plan—whether you have one or a hundred—the truth remains the same: you failed. Yet, the illusion of Plan B offers us a deceptive consolation prize. It allows us to frame failure as success because “at least we succeeded in Plan B.” But this is a delusion. Plan B is not success; it is simply the shadow of what you were truly capable of achieving. It is the compromise you’ve settled for because you were unwilling to fully commit to your highest aspiration. In reality, Plan B is a monument to your doubt, not your success.
True achievement requires burning the ships, eliminating all alternatives, and investing yourself entirely in the pursuit of your dreams. Success doesn’t come from hedging bets or half-hearted efforts; it comes from putting everything on the line and daring to believe in your ability to make it happen. When there is no way out, no option to fall back, you are forced to summon all your strength, resourcefulness, and resilience. You tap into reservoirs of potential you never knew existed because success is now not just an option—it is the only option.
Dreams are not fulfilled by compromise. They are achieved through unshakable belief, relentless effort, and the courage to embrace the risk of failure without distraction or dilution. To succeed in anything meaningful, you must leave no path for retreat and no escape from the pursuit of your goals. The only plan worth having is Plan A. Burn the ships and press onward.
For the ancient Hwarang warriors, the Fourth Code—“Im Jun Moo Twae” or “Courage Never to Retreat in the Face of the Enemy”—was more than a call to bravery; it was a declaration of unyielding resolve. This principle demanded absolute commitment to victory or death. In their eyes, retreat was not an option, for to return alive without victory was not merely dishonorable—it was unthinkable. The essence of this code is profound: one does not step into battle with a divided heart. Victory or death are the only outcomes, for the true warrior does not leave room for surrender or compromise.
This principle applies to all aspects of life where great endeavors are pursued. In modern times, we often dilute this warrior ethos by allowing ourselves the false comfort of fallback options—"Plan B." While the intent of creating backup plans may seem practical, in truth, it is rooted in the fear of failure and a subconscious expectation of defeat. But how can we truly strive for greatness if we are already entertaining an escape route? The soul knows the truth, and it cannot be deceived. When we hedge our bets and split our focus, we compromise the purity of our commitment. True growth and accomplishment are not born of half-hearted attempts but through relentless dedication, even in the face of repeated failure.
It is essential to understand that failure is not the enemy—it is the forge in which strength and wisdom are tempered. We may fail a thousand times in the pursuit of a single goal, but each failure teaches us, molds us, and brings us closer to mastery. The fear of failure, however, paralyzes us and drives us to craft backup plans that ultimately dilute our effort and resolve. To fully commit is to recognize that failure is not a destination but a necessary path toward success. In this way, a “Plan B” becomes unnecessary—a product of fear that seeks to insulate us from the sting of loss rather than propel us toward greatness.
Yet, when we fail to face the truth of our fears, the consequences manifest within us. The subconscious—the hidden self—knows when we are compromising and harboring fear, and it will find ways to reveal this truth. For some, this truth is buried under denial, where they refuse to confront their mistakes. For others, it is cloaked in arrogance, where they double down on ego and pride to mask their insecurities. Many resign themselves to mediocrity, numbing their ambitions and accepting a life of quiet desperation. Still, others live in a perpetual haze, disoriented and aimless, unable to reconcile their inner turmoil. These responses are all symptoms of a life lived without full commitment, a life where fear has taken the reins.
The only way to live fully is to commit completely—100%, and if such a thing were possible, 110%. This commitment comes with the inevitability of pain, loss, and suffering, for to live fully means to embrace every aspect of the human experience, even its hardships. Avoiding pain is not living—it is merely existing. It is often only in moments of confronting mortality, whether our own or that of others, that we realize we have not truly lived. Tragically, by then, the weight of time often presses upon us, and the window for pursuing our dreams seems to have closed. In these moments of clarity, we are left to choose how to spend the time we have left.
Some will allow themselves to be consumed by bitterness, living in solitude and resentment. Others will attempt to recapture their youth, grasping at the fleeting sparks of what was once possible. Many will resign themselves to the inevitable, counting their remaining days with quiet acceptance. But there are those who, even in the face of death, choose to confront life with renewed courage. They understand that while time may be finite, the spirit is eternal, and the way we live is defined not by how long we have but by the choices we make.
Ultimately, it is not the success or failure of achieving our dreams that defines us, but rather the spirit in which we lived. Did we cower before the unknown, enslaved by fear? Or did we stand boldly, defying the tyranny of doubt and despair? Life, like battle, requires courage not to retreat, not to waver in the face of adversity. It requires the strength to burn the ships, to commit wholly and without reservation, knowing that in the pursuit of our dreams, we may fail, but we will have truly lived.
For the Hwarang, and for us, living courageously in defiance of fear is the only true victory.
Drawing by Lydia De Novellis
Muay Thai Boran: learn to fight like an elephant.
The description of the relaxed power of elephants appears in many tales of Siamese tradition as a symbol of functional strength. In Thailand, elephants have been used for many decades for civilian and military purposes. A typical example of the latter category are the famous war elephants (yutthahatthi, ยุทธหตถ). In fact, in the past, war elephants were trained and guided by humans for military purposes. Special military units employed troops mounted on elephants.
The ancient Indian epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata describe in detail warfare with the use of elephants. From the 15th century, Thailand also adopted the use of war elephants. In many battles of the time, it was common practice for leaders to fight while riding war elephants. On January 25, 1592 (in the Ayutthaya era), in the last battle during the fifth Burmese invasion of Siam, from the fighting position on his war elephant, King Naresuan recognized the Burmese crown prince MingyiSwa (who also rode a war elephant) and killed him with a blow from his lethal Ngaaw spear.
Old Muay masters have carefully analyzed how elephants use their natural weapons to attack and destroy: their trunk can be a formidable weapon when used to crush, grab or break. Similarly, tusks can be used to pierce, tear or rip: a forward thrust can turn tusks into giant spears that can penetrate any barrier. When the elephant gores upwards, it can cut through any kind of material with the tip of its tusks. By striking up and down with the tusks, an elephant can hammer and destroy very easily. All these actions have inspired Siamese masters: in fact, over the centuries, they have developed different strategies and combat techniques that resemble a war elephant fighting on a battlefield.
One of the most spectacular scenes that Siamese soldiers probably witnessed during field battles was the clash of two charging elephants. When two war elephants charge at each other, they cross their tusks (Chang Prasan Nga) in a violent head-on collision. Similarly, when a Muay Thai fighter is attacked, he can defend and counterattack or, using the strategy of a charging war elephant, he can attack the attacker, blocking him in his position. A well-known regional style called Muay Korat included this fighting strategy as one of the five main acts (Mae Mai) that its practitioners had to master since they started training in that style. For example, against a long hook (called Wiang Kwai or buffalo swing in that style), the Korat fighter is trained to step forward and occupy the opponent's centerline. A simultaneous block and non-stop vertical punch are applied. The fist is held in a vertical position as this is the technical rule of this style. The ideal target of the strike is the throat of the attacker: the damage inflicted by such a counterattack is potentially very serious (next page).
Counterattack is considered the peak of the art of Muay: when a fighter is very adept at countering opponents' attacks, he is said to have reached the pinnacle of his martial art. Among the many ways of applying the art of counterattack, attacking the attack (also called counter-striking) ranks first for its effectiveness in combat. In fact, when a counter fighter is able to strike “into” the opponent's strike, the resulting counterattack will be more powerful than any direct attack. Sometimes, the counterattack is performed together with a block or a deflection: in this case, both actions must be performed in unison, to be more effective.
The body weapons of Nak Muay that mimic the elephant's tusks are traditionally the elbows (sok) and the closed fists (mahd). In the applications of the Chang Prasan Nga strategy, the tips of the elbows are used for piercing, cutting upward and hammering downward.
1. Piercing. When the opponent charges and attempts to strike with a short or long hook to the head, do not back up. Instead, use your leg strength to spring forward and thrust the tips of your elbows into the opponent's sternum, throat or face. The first result will be that you will quickly close the distance, preventing your opponent's punch from reaching its target. Second, your step forward will charge your elbow attack with great kinetic energy. This energy will add to the force of your opponent's momentum, causing a very hard impact. The hardness of your natural weapon and the reduced impact surface (the tips of your elbows) will make your counter strike an extremely effective counter attack.
2. Slash upward. Sometimes your opponent will approach with his arms outstretched in an attempt to grab you in the neck or throat. While this is not advisable, it often happens in the heat of an all-out fight. When dealing with such an attack, do not back down. Use the charging elephant strategy and move forward with both elbows raised in front of your face. Follow immediately with a double upward elbow that will slide into your opponent's arms. Direct the tips of your elbows toward your opponent's chin with a forceful upward slash. One of your elbows is likely to strike the tip of your opponent's chin with explosive power. The neck grab will not be completed and the opponent could be knocked out dramatically (previous pages).
3. Hammering. The elbows of a Nak Muay can also act like the elephant's tusks when they are heavily crushed from above on an object. In this case, the double elbow attack can be performed in direct attack, in most cases combined with a jump, or it can be applied after a defensive technique. For example, when attacked with a pushed front kick, the Muay Boran practitioner can deflect the incoming kick with a low deflection to unbalance the opponent and prepare for the counterattack. After the low deflection, the Nak Muay jumps and attacks the sides of the opponent's neck with the point of the elbows. Alternatively, the target of the double elbow strike could be the top of the head, a potentially lethal point of attack.
For information on IMBA: I
MBA official website: www.muaythai.it
Europe: Dani Warnicki (IMBA Finland)
South America: Juan Carlos Duran (IMBA Colombia)
Oceania: Maria Quaglia (IMBA Australia)
General Secretariat: Marika Vallone (IMBA Italy)
The Academy of Martial Movement, fusion of the knowledge of Kyusho Jitsu and Tuite Jitsu of M° Frisan Gianluca together with the knowledge of the Art of Movement of M° Pascut Fulvio, continues the technical progression in the training of high level martial instructors and makes available to all the universal principles hidden in the movements of internal and external martial arts, unifying them and focusing them on precision, to bring Kyusho to a new level. In this 3rd volume, we will continue with a detailed study of the pressure points of the head, exercises and technical efficiency, ways to make the force penetrate the opponent's body ... but not only that, we will understand that really “stun” an attacker can be simple and effective. Before the analysis of the pressure points, their location, the best angle to strike, rub, manipulate ... we continue with the principles of martial movement, a unique feature of our academy. The next step is to understand how the transmission of this force occurs, how to charge the “potential” blow and unload it on the opponent. Block by block, internal and external work on our body will make our body structure and alignment a sharp tool to utilize 'force multipliers' at the Kyusho points. The devastating effectiveness of Kyusho is now further amplified, with aspects that can be concretely enhanced and trained, regardless of external and immutable aspects such as our opponent's 'sensitivity' to Kyusho attacks!
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International, si provided and alone in the formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the like is however neves offered with a special holograma sticker. Besides our DVD is characteristed coverings by the hig quality in pressure and material. If this DVD and/or the DVD covering do not corespond to the requirements specified above, it concerns illegal pirat copy.
method that teaches you to stay away from your opponent and hurt him without even entering the hand-to-hand distance. In a way, the Filipino people were ahead of the times, perhaps because, little conditioned by their traditions, they suffered many invasions and, frequently, their habits and customs were altered. But they knew how to turn
absorb and integrate everything that could be useful and increase effectiveness. Their Martial Arts are an excellent example of this. Philippine Arts masters did not pose the problem of remaining tied to such or such custom, but without hesitation, integrated into their own systems personal experiences of Karate or Japanese Judo, We
linked to Scrima, the art of self-defense perfected in the Italian peninsula When the Philippine Arnis spread in the We
actions of defense and offense. Thus, the difference between the two systems, the East and the West, is that in Olympic fencing, the unarmed hand is kept safe and used at most to
unarmed
positions, defenses and fundamental attacks, guard exercises, blocking, crossing and counterattack in Redondo, the fifth, seventh, eighth and contras defenses, dynamic training and free combat exercises with protections We will also see the bag training (blows, blockades and counterattacks) and a final chapter dedicated to Sword and Dagger, the Italian art in the Philippine Kali, executed with authentic weapons.
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International, si provided and alone in the formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the like is however neves offered with a special holograma sticker Besides our DVD is characteristed coverings by the hig quality in pressure and material If this DVD and/or the DVD covering do not corespond to the requirements specified above, it concerns illegal pirat copy
Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense
Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense
Martial arts and the knowledge in self- defense
The origins of self- defense have their roots in the most basic forms of fighting which have developed throughout the world, independently from one another. This hypothesis has been confirmed by archaeological research which were done in various parts of the world. There almost isn't a country that doesn't have its own authentic “folk“ form of fighting or some other type of game which can fulfill man's instinctive need to fight as a means of accustoming to the battle for survival.
We can surely say that the skill of self- defense is as old as mankind. People have always intended to find and develop this skill in order to defend themselves from the attacker. Death is surely man's greatest fear. This fear and the will to overcome it resulted in the fact that men obtained a strong motive to perfect martial arts skills and to strengthen their bodies as well as their spirits with the goal to defend their own lives and survive. Humans have been acquired martial arts experience over centuries and have accumulated it so they could later use it in various conflicts and battles. Up until recently, man was sure that other people would respect him if he showed to be more powerful or skillful than they were.
Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self-
Today the life of a human community is somewhat different and people do not resolve their quarrels by fighting each other. There are different institutions that exist in today's contemporary society and their role is to protect citizens as well as their civil rights. However, martial arts knowledge is not redundant. A man who can protect himself from an attack will know how to keep his composure in such a situation. Such a man will know how to talk with people who wish to attack him in a fearless and peaceful manner. His calmness and confidence are his best protection and can help him to be rarely or never attacked. Self- defense includes the preservation of one's own physical and mental integrity. Although various experts that deal with the topic of conflict exist, by analyzing the origin of conflict or finding
a suitable solution to the problem, its problem is still present.
Of course, fights are more rare nowadays, but conflicts are sometimes resolved with aggression which is often a result of today's way of life. Sometimes the man is exposed to sudden violence without a real reason. Using force against the attacker is, in those cases, necessary. Every person has the right to protect himself when necessary so having the knowledge of how to use a certain martial art can be of great help. Today's modern self- defense techniques need to keep track of the time in which we live in; they need to be efficient but always defensive in their character because acting in self- defense is not a felony.
A lack of understanding is the reason why most conflicts happen. Many of them end in a physical fight between
Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense
individuals or groups of people. People define violence as an application of force in the purpose of abuse. Most people have an idea of who their friends and enemies are. We usually think of our enemy as a person that we don't know, someone who is hostile and has evil intentions. This is usually found to be true, however, abusers can be many other, different people. Conflicts between friends or peers sometimes happen, too. It can happen among younger or older persons. Various conflicts may happen at work or school as well as among family members which affects whole families.
The general opinion states that the victims of an attack or abuse were physically weaker persons, for example, seniors, disabled people, people of a smaller build, children and usually female. All of those stereotypical opinions are partially true. If we would take a look at today's statistics of victims of violence, we would come to a surprising and somewhat shocking conclusions. According to them, the victims of violence
Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense
Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense
are almost evenly distributed between the male and female gender. However, it needs to be emphasized that women are usually attacked with a different intention and motive than men.
Women were always convinced that their fathers, brothers, husbands or protectors would keep them safe from attackers. Women are usually smaller and physically weaker than men and, hence, from the attacker. However, that won't bother a determined and brave woman who knows martial arts and who wants to defend herself from an attacker. This is why it is necessary to educate women in self- defense.
Children are exposed to both direct and indirect violence. Direct violence means the application of physical force. Children are often bullied at school, on the school playground or on the street. This is why it is good to motivate a child to take up a martial art.
Ofttimes the victims of an attack are individuals of various professions who, thanks to the nature of their job, need to step into contact with other people among which are those who represent a certain threat or who might be a potential bully. There is a great
number of such “risky“ professions so those people who work in those areas of expertise should train a martial art or at least know a self- defense technique.
Contemporary self - defense techniques are surely based on various martial arts. Everybody is well aware of most of them. Each new period in history brought and expanded new knowledge as well as some new techniques and self- defense strategies. Today, many of them are improved based on personal experience. Certain techniques were rejected because they showed to be ineffective, while others are modernized. Some old techniques have become popular again as well as some grips that were not emphasized enough before.
Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense
Attack is an attack, not self–defense
The basic principle which is valid for self- defense is the following: less is more. The more simple the technique is, the better. By respecting that principle the choice of self- defense techniques will always be appropriate and efficient for the general population. This is why we need to pay special attention to the time and circumstances in which we live in when choosing modern self- defense techniques. We need to pay attention to the broad and diverse population, their age and gender. Also, we need to be aware of the diversity of the techniques which are appropriate for specific groups of people. Techniques need to be modified and adjusted to a specific group or individual. Contemporary techniques need to be effective, but not too complicated, especially if they are aimed at the general population. Special awareness need to be directed to the fact that most people possess no knowledge in the field of martial arts as well as in self- defense.
Some experts will say that the modern self- defense skills are certainly based on Eastern martial arts techniques. Such a claim is only partially true because up until today every country developed its own martial art and, consequently, its own self- defense technique. Saying that a certain technique is better just because it originated in the East or the West is not reasonable or correct. Many efficient self- defense techniques can be found in countries across the globe, some of which are very suitable even for today's usage. Some techniques need to be modified or modernized a bit, but they are essentially very good and useful for the general population.
It is certain that Eastern martial arts skills such as judo, karate, aikido, ju jutsu, kung fu or tae kwon do represent the basis for most self- defense techniques. However, it should not be forgotten that many other martial arts originally existed even before the aforementioned techniques and that their basic aim was to self- defend. Skill such as wrestling, boxing or French boxing (savate) fall into this category. Other martial arts should not be neglected, for example, those that originate from Brasil, such as capoeira or Brasilian ju jutsu (BJJ), or Russian self- defense skills incorporated into the combat sport sambo (self- defense without weapons).
However, in order to possess a comprehensive knowledge in self- defense techniques, certain skills should be highlighted, such as the Japanese ko- budo martial art or the French la canne skill. Asian skills such as kali, escrima, bando, Vietnamese viet vo dao or the Burmese caliradman should also be mentioned. Certain skills are not as familiar or even almost forgotten, such as the English skill of fighting with a stick- cudgelling.
Martial
arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense
Some self- defense techniques also include various handshaking techniques with certain handy devices, such as a fan, pencil, needle, something that could amplify a blow (a kongo- yavara or a boxer), a whip (belt), a sickle (or a sickleshaped weapon), or objects such as an umbrella, a broom, different sprays, keys, clothes, shoes, bags, newspapers etc. Today, other popular devices are used in order to defend oneself. Those are usually irritating sprays (tear gas) as well as electro shockers (previously called cattle beaters because of their primal purpose).
One part of the self- defense techniques is identical to several various martial arts so it comes to no surprise that the same grip is often claimed by different martial arts. Numerous exist and this article has mentioned only a smaller number of those whose techniques are applicable in self- defense. Of course, many others can be found under the same category.
Many grips are modified and accustomed to today's circumstances in which we live in. Each new era brings new information and research as well as new “modern“ techniques. Or, better to say, old and modified techniques which are shown as new and modern bearing a new name or title. Such an example is the Israeli Krav Maga or the Russian Systema and so on.
The conclusion which says that the attack is the best mode of defense could be effective in a sports way of fighting and sometimes between street groups of bullies. However, this is not the case when it comes to self- defense.
The person who attacks first is surely in a certain advantage, but an attack is not a way of defending oneself and it never will be perceived as such, only a counterattack. The one who attacks first will have a problem when trying to prove that he was defending himself. This is why he (as an attacker) takes the blame and consequences. It is crucial to be ready for different types of attack when defending yourself. Also, one should prevent the attacker with an appropriate measure (various ways of blocking or catching a punch) after which a counterattack is possible.
If someone finds it easier to catch or push you, it is not necessary to defend yourself in the same way. This is also an advice in case he attacks you with a punch with the fist or foot. The attacker will most likely be stronger than you
and this is why you will have to kick him as forcefully as possible in order to defend yourself effectively. If you are not the first to punch, but only to defend, do not be afraid to cross the line of necessary defense, but rather defend yourself bravely, strongly and fiercely. If you did not punch the attacker strongly, his second attack will follow and it could be even more powerful and disastrous. Never underestimate the attacker.
Supposing you have estimated that the attacker is overpowering, immediately try to find some sort of weapon or tool which might come in handy for self- defense. It is extremely difficult to simultaneously defend oneself from two attackers. This is when you must follow the basic advice in self- defense: defend yourself from one attacker and then turn to the other. To clarify: the basic technique of
a man who is faced with an attack of two or more assaulters is to convert his defense into two fights with one man instead of leading one fight against two or more attackers.
An attack with a tool or weapon is the most dangerous type of an attack. Sometimes the tool can be as dangerous as the weapon. There is no difference if an attacker is holding a knife, scissors, scalpel, screwdriver, hammer, axe, iron pipe or if he is attacking you with some other sort of tool or weapon. This kind of an attack is extremely perilous and it needs to be taken seriously. A man who is attacking you with a tool or weapon surely has the desire to seriously harm you or maybe even kill you. Do not think of how determined the attacker is, but be prepared to defend yourself.
If you are a witness to an attack on an elderly person, woman, child or any person who is not capable of defending him or herself on their own you may be forced to help them. If there is no one who can or wants to help, you will need to make the decision of how to help the person on your own.
Most people do not know that tools can be used as weapons for self- defense. Some tools- weapons can be used by anyone at anytime, however, most people do not even notice them and do not know how to use them in selfdefense. An ordinary pencil, book, belt, hair pin, umbrella, keys, shoulder bag, shoe, broom or some other handy tool can be turned into an excellent device in self- defense.
Women's nails can also be turned into a great tool, as well as rasp, brush, scalpel or small scissors. The choice is
extremely big, but we need to know how to use a certain object. Numerous specialized shops that sell different utensils exist. This is where you can find different sorts of boxers, spreys, electro shockers, bats and many more objects which can be used in self- defense.
It is crucial that, in the moment of an attack, you know how to use the things and objects you are surrounded by and not to think about what you could have found in your car or at home. It is very likely that you won't be able to pick the tool for defending yourself and that you will need to use that which is the closest to your position and whereabouts. The right choice of your tool and the right moment in which to use it will have a decisive role in the outcome. Some weapons are better to use at a greater distance, while others function better in close combat. Make sure you use wisely that which is in you vicinity because sometimes, for example, a cup of hot tea or coffee can make a great tool for selfdefense. If you throw a hot liquid in the face of an attacker, his reaction might give you a desired advantage and might confuse him.
Self- defense techniques are in most cases the same for both men and women, but are by no means identical. The differences can be found in small, but very important details. It is best that each individual adjusts certain techniques to himself and his own skills as well as his current abilities to implement it in selfdefense.
David “Sensei“ Stainko Prof. of kinesiology Master 7th Dan Mixed Martial Scientists
Two Knives Two Knives
The art of the two knives
It is perhaps the least known and practiced specialty, both in the West and in the East. After all, even the nobler art of fighting with two swords was not widely practiced even though, when necessary, having developed this skill was very useful, especially if one had to face multiple opponents. Maneuvering two equal weapons, one wielded with the right hand and the other with the left, requires great psychomotor coordination so that the two weapons become an advantage for the one who wields them and not an obstacle.
Guards and grips
The guard position can vary greatly: “open” That is, positions can be assumed with the arms spread apart either in the horizontal plane (with arms spread wide) or in the vertical plane ( one hand up and the other down). One can even hold the arms crossed, and again, either with both arms at the same height or with one arm lower and the other higher. The key difference, however, is the choice made in holding the arms. We have four foundational combinations:
1. Both arms in a straight position, a grip that the Americans call hammer grip,
2. Both with the position reversed, in the U.S. this is the grip called ice pick grip.
3. The mixed position in which in the right hand the knife is held straight and in the left hand it is reversed instead
4. Completing the quatern is the opposite combination in which in the left hand the knife is held straight and in the right is held upside down.
The choice of one of the above combinations influences the tactics of combat in both the offensive and defensive aspects. This consideration is very important because one can get a general picture of the opponent precisely by observing his choice both in wielding the weapons and noting the position of his arms: whether they are open or closed, whether they are symmetrical or asymmetrical, whether they are far or close to his body, whether he moves his arms a lot or stands predominantly still, whether he moves his feet a lot or takes measured steps, etc.
It is useful to remember that both the position taken and the choice of grips can change. This leads us to understand whether the other person ( but also ourselves) prefers stability or mobility.
Fixed grip or mobile grip ?
Among Ionian peoples, the change of grip is not an embellishment or a game of skill but a strategy that, if used with the right strategy, can surprise the opponent. In many “military” systems on the contrary, a firm and immovable grip is preferred, even going so far as to tie the knife to the wrist. It is not a question here of deciding what is better or worse after all it is an individual choice related also to the time one can devote to the deadly art. Both systems have advantages and disadvantages. In the fixed weapon method, whether the knife is held straight or inverted, the emphasis is on a firm grip; the weapon must remain firm in the hand even if the legs and arms are shaking from adrenaline. In addition, the firm grip can easily withstand the pitfalls of sweat or even the viscosity of blood. Knives suitable for “firm grip” are immediately recognized by the conformation of the handle where, often, each finger finds its secure lodging and the handle seems to fit the palm of the hand giving the man a feeling of security, of being at one with the knife. In contrast, knives with a plain handle without special grooves are made to facilitate mobility. The basic movements that must be performed smoothly for those who prefer dynamic grip are three :
1. Change orientation of the edge (obviously for knives that do not have double edge). One rotates the weapon on its longitudinal axis. With just the movement of the fingers you bring the edge, as desired, inward or outward as needed. This maneuver is to be performed either with the weapon held straight or inverted.
2. Change of grip: change from straight to inverted and vice versa. The action must
Two Knives Two Knives
The advantages of mobile grasping are many as is easy to see, however, the risks are equally obvious.”
Two Knives Two Knives
be performed naturally without hesitation hesitation or delay.
3. Change of hand. Consists of switching the weapon from one hand to the other this movement can be performed in three ways :
1. On the hip
2. Behind the back
3. High above the head (raising both arms).
It is evident that the third point above does not apply when holding two knives but only one.
The advantages of the moving grip are many as is easy to see, however, the risks are equally obvious. Lack of ability to control one's emotions, environmental conditions, and being out of practice could mean that a mobile maneuver with the goal of gaining an advantage over the other could turn out to be an own goal instead. From what we have said, it can be deduced that in a knife fight situation, the mobile grapple is suitable for those who can keep a cool head and especially who are in full technical shape derived from constant training and practice.
This explains why in many systems the fixed, safe grip is used because it is aimed primarily at people who cannot spend much of their time practicing with the weapon so the richness of strategic choices is sacrificed in favor of a less variety of but certainly safer movements.
To those who do not like the double weapon I can say that training to use the two weapons leads to a significant improvement in the use of the single weapon but above all to take into proper consideration the function of the “free hand.” So we easily deduce that even if we are predisposed to the use of the single weapon we are better off gaining experience of combat with the double weapon because by doing so we will develop skills that we could spend even when maneuvering a single ar but managing to give proper attention to the free hand.
Parry attacks and counterattacks with the double knife
It is self-evident that a parry made with an armed rather than a “naked” hand turns out to be an “active” parry, that is, one capable, in its defensive action, of already inflicting damage on the opponent. What we have just said adds an additional advantage to the use of the double weapon. However, not only parry but also attacks are enhanced with the two knives. To give a very simple clarifying example: the opponent will
easily succeed in intercepting the first weapon, however, easily the second one can escape his control, which can thus reach the target undisturbed. The two attacks carried point and simultaneously can also either descend from above reaching the two subclaws, or rise from below to slip below the rib cage. The most striking simultaneous attacks are the asymmetrical ones: one knife descends while the other rises reaching, the first the subclavian, the neck, or the eye; while the other, simultaneously, rises evading the rib cage to strike an internal organ.
Two Knives Two Knives
Interesting is the simultaneous pointing attack carried with two different grips for example, the knife is held upside down in the right hand while it is straight in the left hand; the right forearm protects the neck, the face and prepares the way for the knife that is in front of your chest threatening the opponent with the point.
More difficult to execute are simultaneous blows in which one knife cuts while the other attacks with the point. Mind you, this is an action performed simultaneously, the point entering while the other cuts. The movement of the knife cutting you can be either with the arm acting “opening” or with a closing movement. The pointing attack can, in turn be carried over the cutting arm (forehand or backhand) or under the cutting arm.
We have taken it for granted that the two knives regardless of the chosen combination of handle or attachment are the same, instead we should learn to pay attention to the simultaneous use of two weapons differing in weight shape and size. For example a knife or dagger In one hand and a smaller one in the other or even better a knife and a kerambit, the curved knife of Southeast Asia.
And finally, a note of color that I have had the opportunity to observe for myself: among the Gypsy communities, the use of the slotted screwdriver (sometimes made really sharp by rubbing it against the sidewalk) has become widespread in place of the knife. This occasional weapon is certainly easier to justify when checked by public safety officers. Other times, however, the screwdriver is used in tandem with the knife, so we have a nice but deadly combination in which there is the knife in one hand and the screwdriver in the other.
In conclusion, man was born without claws or fangs, but his ability to adapt and imitate nature has led him to artificially create tools that compensate for and sometimes very effectively overcome the natural deficit. We deduce that after all, man's secret weapon is his formidable brain we just have to learn how to use it!
Self-defense programs are very important nowadays due to the increase of crimes around the world and are more comprehensive than martial arts sports training.
The PFS program has been developed by military experts in the field of combat and high-level martial arts instructors under the supervision of its founder, Master Ahmed Al-Houli, and is now considered one of the most important combat programs in the face of real confrontations. Its practice has spread to several countries. An important program for both military and civilian personnel to protect society.
Fundamental aspects
“For martial artists and security professionals, the effectiveness of a self-defense system is paramount, especially when it is intended for private security guards, law enforcement officers, court officers or special forces. Such a system must be realistic, direct and, above all, reliable to use. With over 40 years of experience in martial arts and more than 25 years in the security industry, I have developed a sound knowledge of security, tactics and psychology, which I apply in practice every day. This expertise is incorporated into the OLIVA Combat System (O.C.S.), a specially developed self-defense system that is characterized by pragmatism, professionalism and effectiveness. The aim is to ensure maximum efficiency in self-defense with compact and practical training.
The O.C.S. is more than just a combat system: it is a well-thought-out concept that meets the requirements of today's security industry and provides the basis for confident and targeted operational capability.”
1) Primary aspects
2) The OLIVA Combat System is the result of years of experience in the security industry, as well as intensive international training and research. My life has always been dedicated to martial arts and self-defense for individuals and law enforcement officers, which has led me to the conviction: “Security forces, law enforcement officers, judicial officers and special forces must be trained professionally and effectively!” This conviction must never be neglected or underestimated.
3) This program represents a well-founded measure to address the actual judgment and offense at various levels of law enforcement and to bring them into compliance with the legislation and the civil protection authority. It is a tailor-made self-defense program for security forces.
4) First aspect: holistic self-defense
5) In private security or security forces, the topic of self-defense cannot be considered in isolation. Important topics include the right mindset (“No violence!”), communication, de-escalation, self-protection, personal safety and selfprotection skills, as well as legal principles. These aspects must be perfectly mastered in order to be able to apply them effectively.
6) Second aspect: preparation for exceptional situations
7) It is of the utmost importance to prepare private security officers for dynamic security, the psychology of
8) Coping, stress management through combat, hazard prevention training, the 360° conflict cycle and the 4D strategy. These topics can save lives or neutralize danger. An unprofessional approach is serious and counterproductive, as it can cost lives.
1) Third aspect: Appropriate use of force
2) Be aware of the law and make sure that you comply with the legal framework of the country in which you are located whenever you use techniques. It is your sole responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant laws and to comply with them. The definition of “reasonable” and “excessive” force may vary from country to country. If in doubt, contact the relevant authorities or your local law enforcement agency. In particular, for police officers, it is important to familiarize yourself with internal guidelines on the use of force.
Fourth aspect: Realistic self-defense
1) Realistic self-defense is not beautiful to perform, but it is very effective. Beautiful self-defense, on the other hand, is not realistic and ineffective, although it is good to look at. Real confrontations are not martial arts.
2) Fifth aspect: mindset
3) A 100% mindset paralyzes attackers or perpetrators of violence in most cases by acting within their observation, orientation, decision and action loop. With this mindset, we are ahead and can bring the situation under control.
4) Sixth aspect: levels of aggression
5) Never underestimate the different levels of aggression. The degree of aggressiveness of a criminal can be crucial. Our reaction must be prompt and appropriate, as we never know whether resistance will turn into deadly aggression. Therefore, we must be extremely well prepared to survive a deadly aggression with a perfect defense technique.
6) Seventh aspect: drug-related aggression.
7) Self-defense when dealing with drug-influenced persons is a common scenario. Drug addiction can be divided into four main groups: hallucinogens, stimulants, depressants and inhalants. Recognizing and understanding these groups is crucial to responding appropriately.
8) Eighth aspect: reality awareness
9) The awareness that an altercation in the line of duty or in private life can be fatal or even deadly makes the entire training concept more effective. It increases perception, understanding of reality and emotional control. True reality must be understood 100%. Preparation for physically and psychologically dangerous close encounters increases the chances of survival.
10) Ninth aspect: Less is more
11) A basic principle of realistic and effective self-defense is: less is more.
Responsibility and legal awareness in action
Every action should always be in line with the laws and regulations of the country in which it takes place. This is essential to maintain one's own integrity and to strengthen trust in the legal system. It is important to act lawfully, correctly and properly in order to protect both yourself and the integrity of the community.
As an individual, you bear full responsibility for your decisions and the resulting consequences. A thorough understanding of the legal framework within which you operate is essential to ensure that your actions are not only ethically sound but legally sound as well.
Responsible behavior means being aware that every action can have far-reaching effects. It is up to you to shape these effects in a positive way and to ensure that they are in line with the law. By making your decisions wisely and always considering the legal and moral foundation, you actively contribute to a stable and just environment.
Proportionality: the key to the balanced application of measures
“Proportionality represents the balance between power and measure, where justice acts as a balancing element and regulates the unforeseeable.”
In an urban environment, where chaos often reigns, law enforcement officers play a crucial role. They are responsible for maintaining the balance between right and wrong, and between duties and individual freedoms. Their presence and authority are a symbol of security, and their job is to keep an eye on what is happening in public spaces. In this context, proportionality is a central principle.
This principle is not just a theoretical concept, but an essential basis for the daily work and training of security forces. In particular, in situations of self-defense, each measure must be proportionate to the threat. The force used must not exceed what is necessary to ensure that the principle of proportionality is respected.
Two core principles guide action in such situations: subsidiarity and proportionality. Subsidiarity requires the use of the minimum necessary means to avert a danger. The aim is to avoid escalating the situation, which requires a thorough assessment of the situation and precise coordination of the means used.
Proportionality, on the other hand, refers to the consideration of the legal interest to be protected. Various legal interests must be prioritized in their importance:
1. Life
2. Physical integrity
3. Freedom
4. Honor
5. Property and assets
These legal interests do not stand alone, but must always be weighed against each other in the context of the respective situation. Proportionality requires the security forces to counter threats with appropriate means, without using unnecessary force. When using force, whether it be handcuffs or firearms, the principle of proportionality must always be taken into account in order to avoid the escalation of violence and to defuse the situation.
A practical example illustrates this: security officers encountering a potentially dangerous situation should only use force if there is no milder way to avert the threat. The use of force must always be in line with the severity of the danger. This means that force must never be an end in itself, but must always serve to protect higher legal interests.
For me personally, it is of utmost importance that both private security officers and law enforcement officers develop a thorough understanding of proportionality. Only in this way can they act responsibly and effectively in emergency situations to minimize danger while ensuring the protection of citizens. Sound training in this area is therefore essential to put the principle of proportionality into practice.
Conclusion: the essential role of proportionality
“In the labyrinth of proportionality, law and reason dance a fascinating tango, to build the foundation of a just order in the bold rhythm of balance.”
Proportionality is the key to effective and responsible action by security forces. By internalizing this principle and incorporating it into their training, they not only create a safe environment but also foster citizens' trust in the rule of law. At a time when the challenges for law enforcement officers are constantly increasing, it is essential that they strike the right balance between authoritarian action and respect for people's rights. Proportionality is thus an indispensable guiding principle in the service of everyone's security.
Self-defense: the limits of defense
“Do we have a right to defend ourselves? Yes, the right to defend ourselves in an immediate emergency, as long as the defense is appropriate and proportionate.”
In the world of self-defense, the concepts of self-defense and emergency assistance are of crucial importance. But under what circumstances are we allowed to intervene to defend ourselves? Where are the limits of self-defense? These questions are not only important for security experts, but for every individual, because they directly affect our legal actions in crisis situations.
Self-defense is when a person who is present and is being unlawfully attacked can defend themselves. But what does that mean in concrete terms? Are you allowed to use weapons or even kill an attacker? The proportionality of the defense plays a central role here. An excessive reaction can have legal consequences. Therefore, it is crucial to know the legal provisions and the respective paragraphs in the country in which you are staying.
Self-defence is a fundamental right that every human being has. In the case of an act of selfdefence, the right to self-defence usually applies, which means that no criminal consequences are to be expected for the defender. This principle not only protects the individual, but also supports the entire legal system. Understanding these legal principles is important for private security officers and for all citizens. By knowing the laws and legal frameworks, we are better able to protect ourselves and others in critical situations. Selfdefense is not an abstract concept; it has real-world implications for our daily lives and for the safety of our society.
“No penalty will be imposed in the face of selfdefense. Self-defense is the inalienable right of every human being and forms a foundation of our legal system that affords protection and defense.”
www.shaolin.ch
My latest book “The Iron Mind” is all about Noah Bentley, a young man who is put to the test by life. Noah has to overcome unexpected hurdles and is confronted with challenges that repeatedly push his inner strength to its limits. It begins with a series of seemingly insignificant setbacks that develop into a complex test of his character. He is faced with decisions that could change his view of himself and the world around him forever.
Each twist and turn forces Noah to look deeper into his own inner self and fathom the essence of his spiritsomething I had to experience myself.
Noah's struggle is not just about physical strength, but also about mental clarity, confidence and discipline. His journey reveals how important it is to train not only the body but also the mind in the art of Kung Fu. With “The Iron Mind” I want to give back to the world a piece of my decades of experience as a Kung Fu master and teacher. It is not just an adventure, but an inspirational guide on how to break through inner boundaries and find the strength to overcome any challenge - in the spirit of Kung Fu.
www.shaolin.ch
In this fourth work, Justo Dieguez, creator of the Keysi Fighting Method, focuses on the area of grabs and traps. We will see 10 technical sequences in which the grab, the trap, are the objective, although it will be treated as a consequence. At KEYSI we do not think beforehand about performing a grab, it is something that will be the consequence of a certain situation. In a risk situation, your senses connect you with your environment, you are pure instinct, auditory, visual and contact. This ability allows you to focus your concentration, recognize your surroundings and decide what actions to take. It is you with your mental capacity that makes everything a weapon, a wall, a corner, a step, etc. On the street, in a real situation, the rules don't work. With technique you are not going to achieve your goals. Technique is that bridge that will get you to the target, but it is not the target. In a risky situation, instinctive responsiveness has to prevail over technique. When you train with this mentality you know that a millisecond can be vital. You understand that you don't have the possibility to extend the time, that you can't play on your opponent's patience or ability to manipulate him. You understand that you are at a complete disadvantage, that your response must be explosive and that you have to get out of there.
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International, si provided and alone in the formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the like is however neves offered with a special holograma sticker. Besides our DVD is characteristed coverings by the hig quality in pressure and material. If this DVD and/or the DVD covering do not corespond to the requirements specified above, it concerns illegal pirat copy.
This second work on knife is primarily aimed at those who already have an idea of the biomechanics of close combat movement. Master Skogorev explains in detail some techniques of knife work, such as the basic motor function in defense and attack, the proper position to move and react to the enemy's actions, ways of grasping a knife (hidden and open) and the quick and instantaneous response of defense and attack. Everything is performed according to the principles based on the methods of elimination of the opponent, such as physical balance and knowledge of the strike zones on body and limbs. In the section of knife against knife, these options should not be considered as options of knife fighting, it is only a variant of the use of one's own weapon against the opponent's knife, everything is built exclusively in the environment of self-defense. Also shown is the work of knife against stick, as a method to obtain a real representation of the impact force and speed in a real action. All this in an easy and simple way if you have previously studied the previous lessons. With thanks to all, D. Skogorev, Systemа SV. 76 Min.
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International, si provided and alone in the formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the like is however neves offered with a special holograma sticker. Besides our DVD is characteristed coverings by the hig quality in pressure and material. If this DVD and/or the DVD covering do not corespond to the requirements specified above, it concerns illegal pirat copy.
Japanese Honor beyond the Dojo
(By Shidoshi Jordan Augusto and Juiz Amador Daniel)
As the ancients used to say: “the older the bull, the harder the horn”.
I'm constantly approached by students or even teachers of other arts who politely want to know more about Japanese honor. More than controversial, it's a subject that can be evaluated and analyzed from many different perspectives, depending on its central point.
In this first section, I'll look at Japanese thinking from a constructive point of view, and then move on to the reflective aspect, since it's important to emphasize that it's from this point of view that the actions of the Japanese people prevail. Although folklore and the media exploit this concept immeasurably, we can analyze coherently and appropriately what Japanese honor is all about.
An ethnic group is usually characterized by a people who developed from the same ancient group; often neighbouring ethnic groups have the same physical characteristics, but are called differently because of their historical, archaeological and anthropological roots.
According to most people's thinking, the only ethnic group that exists in Japan is yellow. However, this is not entirely true. Like reds, yellows generally have little or no facial hair and very little on their bodies. In addition, there are some differences in skin tones between yellows from Japan and those from the continent, for example. On this basis, we can see that part of the Japanese population (a very small part, by the way) has different physical characteristics from the rest.
These individuals, who today number no more than 30,000, are descendants of a people who inhabited the island of Hokkaido from a very remote time. It seems that the ethnic group is very similar to those from the Caucasus and may come from the Ural Mountains in Russia. This ethnic group is known as the “Ainu”. The Ainu were incorporated into the Japanese population when the Empire, which developed in the southeast, began to occupy the entire archipelago.
The vast majority of Japanese characteristics were deeply influenced by Japanese relations with China and Korea, where civilization (as we
understand it, i.e. with a central government structure) was much older.
If we are going to take a deep and correct approach, we should adopt the idea that one in every 200 men alive is a descendant of the Mongol conqueror Genghis Khan, known for his sexual urges and for founding the largest empire in history in the 13th century, according to a genetic study released today.
If we travel a little way back in time and remember our childhood, the heroes and all the good things that filled our eyes, we'll find a pleasant adventure that, with the passage of time and the arrival of responsibility, has made us stop nurturing our dreams which, in the adult phase of our lives, no longer seem so magical.
Good times, when everything was romantic and filled with the immeasurable wisdom of our teachers, who always had a mythical and cinematic air. However, as we come to understand and mature a little more, we begin to see that they are normal men who have nothing special about them.
With the arrival of the study of philosophy (to which you only have access in more advanced degrees - at least in my day that was the case), we begin to see that there are no special men, but rather men who perform special deeds.
With the arrival of the teaching profession, we often come up against the inevitable personality of the Human Being who, in one way or another, builds our personality, be it good or bad. I have always understood that in the life of any professional there are always two major stages:
- Becoming competent.
- Showing the world your competence.
This second stage is somewhat complicated.
As children, we all aspire to achieve our goals, which are revealed in the form of dreams and desires, but only when we are older do we understand that the secret to any achievement is the simplest thing in the world: knowing what to do with it.
Modernity has brought us so many interesting things that we sometimes lose our way in the face of evolution. Perhaps fear of our questions makes
us isolate ourselves, or even prefer to remain upright, closed off. “Confidence, like art, does not derive from having the answer to everything, but from being open to all questions.”
Researching, training hard, creating ways to gain experience and making mistakes many, many times, is undoubtedly still the best way to acquire a respected technique. A great American president once said that “we must never allow ourselves to be applauded, because we will also have to allow ourselves to be booed”. Rising and falling are part of the same coin, and there is no other way to improve ourselves.
“Words remain meaningless until they become habits.”
“Half of what you are is down to what you think of yourself.”
If we want to understand something, we have to look at its origins. According to historians, both the Chinese and the Japanese have their origins in Mongolian culture.
According to my teachers, Japanese honor can be understood from two perspectives:
1) Giri (義理 ) / Ninjō (人情 )
- Giri (義理 ) refers to the obligation to act in accordance with the dictates of society towards other people. It applies, however, only to specific people with whom one has certain social relationships and is therefore a particular rather than a universal norm.
- Ninjō (人情 ) broadly refers to universal human feelings of love, affection, pity, sympathy, sadness and the like, which one “naturally” feels towards others, such as in relationships between parents and children or between lovers. Giri implies a moral force that compels members of society to engage in socially expected reciprocal activities, even when their natural inclination (ninjō) might be to do otherwise.
2) Honne (本音 ) and Tatemae (建前 )
These are Japanese terms related to a person's external feelings and behavior. Honne (本音 ) refers to a person's true feelings and desires (本音 , Hon'ne, “true sound”), Tatemae (建前 ) contrastingly refers to the behavior and opinions someone displays in public (建前 , tatemae, “built on the front”, “façade”). This distinction began to be made in the postwar era. A person's honne may be contrary to what is expected by society or what is required according to their position and circumstances, and they are often kept hidden, except from their closest friends. Tatemae is what is expected by society and required according to one's position and circumstances, and these may or may not correspond to one's honne.
In many cases, tatemae leads to telling blatant lies to avoid exposing one's true inner feelings.
Causes I
n Japanese culture, public failure and the disapproval of others are seen as particular sources of shame and reduced social standing. This is why it is common to avoid direct confrontation or disagreement in most social contexts. Traditionally, social norms dictate that one should try to minimize disagreement; failing to do so can be seen as insulting or aggressive. For this reason, the Japanese tend to make great efforts to avoid conflict, especially within the context of large groups. By upholding this social norm, one is socially protected from such transgressions by others.
Japan started to become a nation in the Yamato Era, which began at the end of the 3rd century AD. The ancestors of the current Emperor began ruling a small number of states with the same rules, today these are the provinces of Nara and Osaka.
Prince Shotoku (聖徳太子 ) implemented Japan's first constitution in the year 604. This period also saw the introduction of Buddhism from the Eurasian continent.
The Nara Era began in the early 8th century with the establishment of the first capital in Nara. The capital was moved to Kyoto, beginning the Heian Era (平安時代), when the influence of the noble families was predominant.
In the last two periods, the government had centered on the Emperor and was administered by the nobility. This was the beginning of seven centuries of feudal rule under a succession of shoguns or military rulers.
After his triumph over the Taira (平 ), Minamoto-no-Yoritomo (源頼朝 ) established the headquarters of his shogunate (military “Party” government) in Kamakura (鎌倉 ), in the Kanto region (関東 ) - close to Tokyo. This place became the administrative and political capital and Yoritomo assumed certain administrative powers, which had previously been exercised by the emperors in reaction to what he considered the decadence of Kyoto (where the imperial court was held).
Minamoto placed samurai as police and tax collectors throughout the country and in every district. He encouraged the austerity, martial arts and discipline needed to restore effective control throughout the country, especially over rebellious clans in the more distant provinces. During this period, the influence of the samurai on Japanese culture gave rise to the introduction of elements of strength and practical order. This is when Bushido (武士道) (the samurai code of conduct) was established and the first Harakiri (腹切り) took place.
Harakiri is one of the most intriguing and fascinating aspects of the samurai code of honor: it consists of the samurai's obligation or duty to commit suicide in certain situations, or when he thinks he has lost his honor. It literally means “stomach cutting”. This ritual suicide is also called seppuku (切腹), which is a more elegant way of saying the same thing.
Various circumstances could lead a samurai to perform harakiri. Among them:
- As a punishment and a way of recovering his personal honor, once it had been lost in some attitude unworthy of the name of his family and his ancestors;
- In order to avoid being taken prisoner on battlefields, as it was considered immense dishonor among samurai to surrender to the adversary, so they preferred to give up their lives rather than surrender to enemy hands. Surrendering wasn't a good choice either, as prisoners were almost always tortured and mistreated;
- In an act of pure loyalty, the samurai would even kill himself in order to draw the attention of his lord Daimiô (大名 ) to something wrong he was doing and warn him.
Some samurai also committed suicide when they saw their masters declining, or even when they died, as a way of accompanying them forever and following the precept that a samurai should not serve more than one daimyo in his lifetime.
The harakiri ritual was practiced as follows:
First, he would bathe, in order to purify his body and soul, and head to the place of execution, where he would sit down in the oriental manner. He would then take his wakizashi (脇差 ) short sword, or a sharp dagger, and drive the weapon into the left side of his abdomen, cutting through the middle of his body and ending by pulling the blade upwards. It was important for the cut to be in the abdomen, as it was considered the center of the body, emotions and spirit for the Japanese people. In this way, the samurai was literally cutting into his “soul”.
It was also important for the samurai to write a death poem, which was a short poetic composition in which the warrior recorded his last impressions of the world, some hidden wish or simply a formal farewell.
Death by evisceration was slow and painful, and could take hours. In spite of this, the samurai had to show absolute control over himself and could not show any signs of pain or fear.
Next to the suicide stood a friend or relative, the kaishakunin (介錯人), who carried a sword. He was a kind of assistant in the ritual; if the samurai showed that he could no longer bear the pain, the kaishakunin would give him the coup de grace by cutting off his head.
It would be considered extremely disrespectful if the samurai's head rolled off in front of his relatives, who were usually also watching the execution. Because of this, the kaishakunin had to hit the samurai's neck in such a way as to leave his head hanging down, so that it wouldn't be beheaded. Thus, the kaishakunin had to be an excellent swordsman, because he could not fail in his role. It was considered an honorable position.
It became customary among samurai families to teach their male children, on the eve of their entry into adulthood, exactly how to perform seppuku.
The ritual was not always followed to the letter in every detail. In some extreme cases, such as on battlefields where there was no time for such preparations, the samurai would give up his life simply by sticking the sword in his belly.
The first harakiri recorded in history dates back to 1170, when Minamoto Tametomo (源為朝 ), an almost legendary figure from the Minamoto clan, committed suicide after losing a battle against the also famous Taira clan.
Ritual suicide had great significance for the Japanese people. By overcoming the fear of death, the samurai also overcame this great enigma of humanity and stood out from the other classes existing at the time. It was this same samurai spirit that led suicide pilots (kamikazes) to blow themselves up in their planes during the Second World War.
Unfortunately, even today, suicide is seen by some Japanese as the best way to recover lost honor. This explains the constant suicides of bankrupt businessmen, students who haven't achieved good results, etc.
The military class, the samurai, ruled Japan from the Kamakura era (late 12th century) until the end of the Edo era in the second half of the 19th century.
We hear a lot about the Bushido and its fantastic parables of honor, which enchant Westerners.
Bushidô (武士道 ) means “Way of the Warrior” Bushi (武士 ) = Warrior, military, samurai; and Dô (道 ) or Michi = road, method, discipline), and is an (unwritten) code of honor followed by the samurai (who constituted a caste from 1192 to 1867).
To become a true warrior, what path should you follow? Can martial practice become a path that leads to ethics, to wisdom? Such questions have been raised since the warrior class became predominant in Japan in the 12th century. The efforts of the bushi (warrior) were already developing on three levels:
- Technically: they had to practice the arts of war in order to achieve maximum skill;
- Morally: they had to show devotion to their service and limitless loyalty;
- Spiritually: they had to rise to impassivity and self-sacrifice in the face of death.
But it wasn't until the peace of the Edo period (1615 to 1868) that the term bushido was used to designate the exaltation of martial virtues. As such, bushido was founded in the 17th century by Yamaga Sokō (山鹿素行), whose thinking was influenced by Confucian rationalism.
The Hagakure (葉隠 ) (book hidden between the leaves, written by Yamamoto Tsunetomo (山本常朝 ) in 1716) gives bushidô a more radical, uncompromising version. The ruling class atoned for its domination: death was present at the slightest deviation in behavior, easy death was the solution to all conflicts. In order to escape the contradictions of martial peace, two lines were being outlined: exalting the values of subordination, order and discipline, and interpreting the ethics of service in the sense of useful and fruitful work. Under the influence of Confucianism, the warrior was transformed into a meticulous official, attentive to managing the interests entrusted to his care. This bureaucratic ideology reigned in circles close to central power.
However, as one moved further away from Edo (today's Tokyo), as one descended from the talented and disciplined spirits to the rougher milieus, where the warriors (sometimes simple ronin without a job) had nothing
but their lives to give, one encountered other sentiments: honor became rougher, a redoubling of loyalty showed a contempt for fine talents that were simply useful, and the spirit of war awakened companionship, recklessness, carelessness and prodigality.
Yamamoto Tsunetomo, whose words are compiled in Hagakure, became, from his corner of the province, the interpreter of the most radical aspects of bushido. His gaze goes straight to extreme conclusions:
- Let the warrior be confused with death;
- Others, whether peasants or city dwellers, can get rich, work, make plans - but the warrior lives without tomorrow, constantly striving to be everything he has to be. Who lives as if he were already dead: he will have nothing more to fear;
- In an experience of the unity of opposites close to Zen, he will rise to freedom, to serenity. His violence, which is extremely tense, will then be able to bear the same fruit as “Buddhic non-violence”;
- Such a man does not allow himself to be enslaved by the ends he pursues, by the duties he fulfills. Nothing he does binds him if he exercises himself in keeping his will at the height of death.
It is understood that bushidô is death. Alternatively, you can only choose death. That's it. You go ahead calmly. To say that to die after a defeat is to die foolishly is a frivolous opinion of people from the capital. When you're faced with the choice between life and death, you shouldn't consider the end: everyone prefers to live, and that's undoubtedly what reason wants too; but to go on living without having reached the desired end is cowardice.
We are thus on shaky ground. To die after a defeat is to die completely, it's madness, but it's not dishonorable. This is the safe ground of bushido. When, every morning and every night, one dies without ceasing, when one is everywhere and always anchored in death, then, necessarily, one obtains the freedom of bushido and, protected from any dishonor, one fulfills one's vocation.
Never has the relationship between the will and death been expressed with such force and simplicity, freeing man from everything else, opening up the space of an essential emptiness beyond his particular tasks and awakening him to the impossible that he must recognize in himself. These sentiments, expressed at the beginning of the 18th century, show that, without fear, without taint and without hope, the samurai lives indifferent to the future, to projects, successes and profits. In his contempt for reason, his intimacy with death is enough for him, as it is the only principle of all virtue.
The privileges of the warrior aristocracy were abolished years later, but not their values. During the Second World War, the reading of the Hagakure was encouraged. Finally, it was to the revival of bushido, compromised by defeat, that the novelist Yukio Mishima wanted to devote and sacrifice his life.
In fact, until 1853, Japan had no influence from Western human values.
“Personal dignity and honor cannot be protected by others, but must be safeguarded by the individual in particular.”
(Mahatma Gandhi)
"... Fifty canarians of the best swimmers to be found, each equipped with a cabarco and a dragon tree tablachina". In this way, indigenous Canary Islanders were used as elite troops in the assault on Tenochtitlan, Mexico, early 16th century. This new work of the Federación de Lucha del Garrote Canario, focuses on the traditional Tolete, its characteristic grip with one hand in the center, the guards (right, troquiada, ...) and the basic techniques (correderas, vueltas, lazos, molinetes...), as well as its application in combat combinations. In the traditional Tolete canario the objective is to break the armed hand of the attacker and to finish off in a forceful way with a definitive blow. There are no controls or reductions. The opposite happens with its police application, where the proportionality to the aggression and even the aggressor's own integrity is protected by law. The military application does not have these limitations, but its use as defense by the military police does. The characteristics of the Tactical Operational Tolete for the operations of civilian and military police forces favor these aspects as it is an extremely versatile implement. Its dimensions and central grip with effective wrist turns facilitate rapid and repeated striking movements to the armed hand, enabling both its cancellation and the consequent control for an effective reduction, thus preserving the life of the agent and eliminating the threat with the minimum of injury.
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International, si provided and alone in the formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the like is however neves offered with a special holograma sticker. Besides our DVD is characteristed coverings by the hig quality in pressure and material. If this DVD and/or the DVD covering do not corespond to the requirements specified above, it concerns illegal pirat copy.
Grand Master Martin Sewer presents in this work a complete course of Bak Hok Pai, the style of the white crane. The crane is an elegant animal. With its white feathered robe, one moment it stands like a ruler, guarding its territory. The next moment, it flaps its wings and moves forward at lightning speed. Although everyone has a clear picture of this graceful creature in their mind, most find it difficult to imagine this great bird in a fight. How does a crane actually fight when threatened? Like all animal styles, the crane style was created by studying the animal's strategies and tactics during a fight and transferring them to humans. This also gave rise to the five animal styles that have stood the test of time and are taught in my school today: Tiger, Crane, Snake, Leopard and Dragon. Mastering all these animal styles and the elements that go with them makes one a perfect human being, say the legends of Kung Fu, and it is naturally part of the philosophy of a true warrior to want to constantly improve and achieve perfection. Although the knowledge/skill of the five animals belongs to advanced levels, four of the mentioned styles are even accessible to beginners in the form of seminars. In them, eager students not only get a deeper insight into our Hung Gar, but also learn the first fighting techniques of the respective animal style, and the most common comment is: "I would not have thought that these techniques could be so efficient...!".
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International, si provided and alone in the formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the like is however neves offered with a special holograma sticker. Besides our DVD is characteristed coverings by the hig quality in pressure and material. If this DVD and/or the DVD covering do not corespond to the requirements specified above, it concerns illegal pirat copy.
Sifu Paolo Cangelosi presents a true pearl of the traditional programs of the Hung Gar style, according to the lineage of the Grand Master and hero Wong Fei Hung, considered the father of moder n Hung Gar. It is the form “Loon Ying - the Shadow of the Dragon", extracted from the forms Ng Ying Kune and Sap Ying Kune The beginning of this set involves
sounds that refer to the emotions and moods of the individual, as
the dragon where we will
and movements that create this energetic and emotional
order to free the human being
weakness and reactivate the vital functions of the organs and viscera
main essence of this wonderful exercise that has taken its place in the most important forms of the Hung Gar style You will surely get the most out of it by going on to study the "Tit Sin Kune" f
technical panorama, treasure of the great studies carried out and transmitted by the great master Tit Kiu San
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International, si provided and alone in the formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the like is however neves offered with a special holograma sticker Besides our DVD is characteristed coverings by the hig quality in pressure and material. If this DVD and/or the DVD covering do not corespond to the requirements specified above, it concerns illegal pirat copy
Grandmaster Joe Moreira visits Zurich again
The Belt Graduation of the Vacirca Brothers, Franco and Demetrio in the month of December 2024
The following is a tribute to a special personality: Grand Master Joe Moreira paid another visit to the city of Zurich. On Sunday, December 1, 2024, the brothers Franco and Demetrio Vacirca were awarded the degree. A true master of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Like no other BJJ expert, he strives to spread his knowledge and vision through numerous trips around the world.
His extraordinary commitment to the spread of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and his down-to-earth attitude are equally appreciated by all his students. I am not aware that he has never said or done anything negative, and I have known him for many years. The first time was at a training session at the Rickson Gracie school in Santa Monica, and later again when I was in contact with Grandmaster Reylson Gracie before he left for Las Vegas.
Grandmaster Reylson, son of former Grandmaster Carlos Gracie, had recently moved from Rio de Janeiro to the United States to establish his school in California. Subsequently, Master Joe Moreira was invited to California by Grandmaster Reylson to participate in leading the lessons.
From Judo to (Gracie) Jiu-Jitsu...
Master Joe had started Judo as a kid, but in 1967 he met his first Jiu-Jitsu teacher, Grandmaster Reylson Gracie, in Rio de Janeiro. Three years later, because of his passion for Judo competition, he studied with the renowned Judo master George Medhi, where he continued to develop in this discipline. Today, he holds the 3rd Dan degree in Judo, of which he is very proud.
However, it is former grandmaster Francisco Mansur who impresses him the most and makes him what he is today. Mansur was one of the first red belt holders to be instructed and graduated directly by former Grandmaster Hélio Gracie. In 1984, Master Joe was awarded a black belt by Grandmaster Mansur, and two years later he was also awarded a black belt in Judo.
For Master Joe, Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a martial art or sport. In a conversation, however, he said that Judo had also brought him numerous benefits. “At that time, there were only a limited number of Jiu-Jitsu tournaments, which is why I also took part in Judo championships,” Master Joe told me. I then went on to take part in MMA competitions, although again this was only in the USA.
“Jiu-Jitsu is the solution to a better life. It will give you the confidence to live in this world, in which the future is undefined. It will not only improve your physical health, but also your mental well-being, and the ability to live in tranquility with yourself. If these are your goals, you also have the capacity, and your life will be long and prosperous”. –Master Joe Moreira, 9th degree red belt
The Judo model for the realization of Jiu-Jitsu competitions
Master Joe was one of the first Brazilians to travel to Japan to train in Judo and compete with the best Judokas in the Kodokan. These pioneers also included masters Marcelo Behring and Edson Carvalho. The then young Brazilian talents were viewed with great skepticism by everyone, even the Japanese experts took them seriously, as they were known to be outstanding “Newaza” (ground specialists) fighters.
Moreira reached such a high level that he won a silver medal at the World Judo Championships. Back in his home country, he dedicated himself to spreading his Jiu-Jitsu vision. In a short time, he became the most important organizer of Jiu-Jitsu competitions in Brazil, including the very first “Copa Atlantico Sul”. Some of the most famous athletes of all
time took part in this tournament, including the famous Renzo Gracie. All this happened before the IBJJF World Championships were established.
When the International BJJ Federation (IBJJF for short) was still being established, Master Joe was asked by Master Carlos Gracie Junior, the founder of the IBJJF, to support him in organizing and running the IBJJF tournaments in the USA, which Moreira was also happy to do as President of the US BJJ Federation. In 1996, when the IBJJF organized the first World Championships in Rio de Janeiro, it was again Master Joe who put together the first American BJJ team and brought it to Brazil.
The first Black belt holders in the USA
In 1989, at the personal invitation of Grand Master Reylson Gracie, Master Joe was invited to California, where he was initially only supposed to work as a teacher, but things turned out differently than planned. Master Reylson decided to seek his fortune in Las Vegas, where I also met Master Reylson for the first time. I had also heard from my teacher from São Paulo at the time, Professor Waldomiro Perez Junior, who was also visiting Zurich at the time, that Master Joe was now in California.
His stay in the USA was characterized by numerous challenges. But with his knowledge of Jiu-Jitsu, he knew, as he always said, how to master the situation and make the best of it. Master Joe told me that he was in a precarious situation during his time in the USA and was about to return to Brazil. However, friends and acquaintances advised him against it and emphasized that he had an important task to fulfill in the USA. This gave him the motivation to continue working towards his vision. To achieve this goal, however, he was often forced to take on other activities and work hard. But with patience and perseverance, success eventually came.
He met a person who at the time was a blue belt under Master Rickson Gracie at his schools in Santa Monica and trained there regularly. He said that Master Joe should introduce himself to Master Rickson on the mat. The student asked Rickson for permission to introduce Moreira. Rickson was generous and said: “Of course, Macaco, he can come any time!”. Master Joe subsequently visited Master Rickson's school in Santa Monica.
This was also my very first encounter with Master Joe on Master Rickson's tatami. I still have vivid memories of this
encounter, as Rickson was very complimentary about Master Joe's footwork from the guard position. Although I still had little knowledge of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu at that time, Rickson's explanations were immediately comprehensible and clear to me. Jiu-Jitsu with Rickson, at least during the time I spent there, was characterized by the top positions (mount and 100-kilo position). Master Joe, on the other hand, had a special technique for working out of the guard position. He used his legs with remarkable consistency, reminiscent of the fighting style of an octopus.
Following this meeting, Joe was asked by a group of interested parties if he would also teach. Joe was open to the idea of teaching himself, and after a short time he was able to pursue his vision of BJJ in a small location. The price for a lesson back then was 20.00 US dollars, which was paid in cash on site. That was good money, Master Joe told me. Initially, two lessons were given per day, but the demand for more lessons was greater than the supply. As a result of this development, new top instructors established themselves under the direction of Master Joe, which opened numerous new opportunities to present Brazilian JiuJitsu to a wide audience.
During this time, Grandmaster Rorion Gracie had published a video series entitled “Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Basics”, which led to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gaining increasing interest. Some practitioners underwent serious training and completed training sessions with the Machado brothers, Gracie or even Master Joe. However, most trainers in the martial arts sector showed no affinity for Brazilian fighting techniques. However, a growing interest in grappling could be observed. This led to some trainers attempting to acquire the necessary knowledge to quickly gain a certain level of expertise and generate a reasonable income. As a result, grappling schools were established in a wide variety of places. At that time, the motto was: “Less is more” and “...the one-eyed man is king among the blind!”, which is still valid today.
I lived in Hermosa Beach, a town located between Santa Monica and Redondo Beach. My main training still was at the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Torrance. Due to the short distance between my home and Redondo Beach, which I could cover on foot in just a few minutes, I attended both private and group training sessions with Rigan and John Machado. I had only just met the oldest of them, Carlos Machado, and had taken a few private lessons with him. However, he left California to be in Texas alongside the movie star and karate master Chuck Norris. There he founded his own Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school.
From the very beginning, Joe Moreira endeavored to convey his vision of Brazilian JiuJitsu, and his excellent reputation as a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor opened numerous opportunities. One of the most active black belt holders was Roy Harris, who, like the author of these lines, had also come to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu from the Jeet Kune Do (JKD) of Sifu/Guro Dan Inosanto.
Although Master Joe spent much of his time as a teacher at this time, he soon became a professional MMA athlete with two fights in two UFC events. The relevance of this period in Master Joe's life cannot be determined with certainty, but it can be assumed that it played a significant role. At the MMA fights, he could now be seen fighting alongside MMA athletes such as Marco Ruas and Renzo Gracie, so Master Royce Gracie was no longer the only “Brazilian” in the Octagon.
This was followed by the release of Master Joe's complete video series, which was produced and marketed by Panther Productions. As a result, thousands of interested people had the opportunity to learn a variety of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques. This was especially true for people like me and my brother, who had to travel a considerable amount of time and budget for private and group lessons.
“I am inviting the entire family to continue to train and evolve with me. Let’s build our community to become better, stronger, and lastly to guarantee our legacy for the future”. –Master Joe Moreira, 9th degree red belt
GM Joe's first and not last visit to Zurich
Master Joe visit was around 2014, when I just decided to get my own place after the loss of our Dojo, because the location was request by the house owner for the building of his own new commercial space. The simple and relaxed way in which Master Joe teaches Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu also makes it possible for beginners to take part in one of his seminars. His Jiu-Jitsu includes all aspects of (Gracie) Jiu-Jitsu, from standing, throwing and ground fighting. Self-defense is also an important part of his teaching, as developed by former grandmaster Hélio Gracie.
I am often asked, especially by Judokas, whether Moreira's Jiu-Jitsu also contains elements of other martial arts, especially Judo. I can answer this question with a “yes-no!”, as his Jiu-Jitsu is largely influenced by the training of his master Francisco Mansur. However, as he states himself, Judo played an important role in his personal development. It is strongly recommended that you obtain the instructional video series by former grandmaster Francisco Mansur from Budo International. This includes not only a range of Jiu-Jitsu techniques, but also a comprehensive introduction to the Mansur-Gracie teaching method. Although each grandmaster has made his own experiences and further developments, the original concept of Grandmaster Hélio is recognizable in every technique.
In December of this year, we were visited again by Grandmaster Joe Moreira. In addition to participating in a training session of the Vacirca Brothers Jiu-Jitsu team in Zurich, we graduated. It is an extraordinary honor for us to be graduated by this outstanding person and grandmaster and to continue to promote excellent Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Europe with him at our side. Our intention is to promote Jiu-Jitsu to help it become more widely recognized. Thank you, Grandmaster Joe Moreira, for this honor and hopefully we will meet again very soon.
Keep it Real!
What comes after you have mastered the fundamentals and intermediates? What is the next step in your journey of learning Gracie Jiu-Jitsu? The Vacirca Brothers' Gracie Concepts program structure defines three main levels of student development: GC Fundamentals, GC Intermediate, and finally (in two separate parts), GC Advanced Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. These levels indicate different levels of maturity for Gracie Jiu-Jitsu students to eventually achieve the Faixa Preta (Black Belt). By this stage, most Gracie Jiu-Jitsu practitioners have spent several years practicing with us and can demonstrate a high level of experience, a deep understanding of the Gracie Concepts philosophy, and a strong bond and passion to train and share Jiu-Jitsu with other training partners, regardless of their belt level or physical attributes. Welcome to the GC Advanced Gracie Jiu-Jitsu program to take you to the next level of flow. Remember, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is much more than just self-defense, it is a positive way of life. 47 min.
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International, si provided and alone in the formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the like is however neves offered with a special holograma sticker. Besides our DVD is characteristed coverings by the hig quality in pressure and material. If this DVD and/or the DVD covering do not corespond to the requirements specified above, it concerns illegal pirat copy.
L'Okichitaw est un art martial indigène basé sur les méthodes de combat des guerriers des nations indiennes Assiniboine et Cri des Plaines. Dans cette compilation, le chef George J. Lépine nous initie à l'utilisation de trois des armes les plus redoutées des guerriers indiens : la massue Gunstock, le Tomahawk et le couteau. Le Gunstock Warclub était l'une des armes d'impact les plus puissantes, car en plus de frapper avec une force incroyable, il pouvait aussi couper ou poignarder. En raison de sa ressemblance avec un fusil, le Gunstock Warclub était également utilisé pour faire croire à l'ennemi qu'il était en possession d'armes à feu. Le Tomahawk de combat était l'une des armes les plus prisées des guerriers, un instrument que l'histoire a inscrit dans nos esprits comme étant agressif et impitoyable. Le chef Lépine explique en détail les concepts de base du Tomahawk, l'entraînement, le lancer, les 20 mouvements, les applications de défense et d'attaque, et les contre-techniques. Enfin, nous découvrirons la méthode traditionnelle d'entraînement au maniement du couteau « Mokiman », seul, en profitant de ce que la nature nous offre, les arbres, le sol, l'eau, ... afin de développer une mécanique corporelle optimale pour offrir le maximum d'impact à l'adversaire. Avec ce travail, Okichitaw continue d'honorer les traditions indigènes pour s'assurer non seulement que ces connaissances demeurent, mais aussi que nous continuons à nous déplacer de la même manière que nos ancêtres.
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International, si provided and alone in the formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the like is however neves offered with a special holograma sticker. Besides our DVD is characteristed coverings by the hig quality in pressure and material. If this DVD and/or the DVD covering do not corespond to the requirements specified above, it concerns illegal pirat copy.
