Useful Tips When Dressing For Employment Interview

By Connor Sullivan

Jenny had one more item to complete on her to do list for the day. She had to make sure to pick up the Tae Kwon Do uniforms she had ordered last week. Getting the right martial arts uniform was very important to her as she was looking forward to participating in her first competition in the very near future. She had decided to purchase some new outfits for the competition hoping it would give her a boost of self confidence and make her feel like a true competitor. Jenny had always believed that what she wore was a big part of who she was and who others saw her to be. Jenny was one who subscribed to the old adage that it is the clothes that make the man, or woman as the case may be. Choosing the right outfit for a specific occasion need not be difficult. Sometimes, as in the case of the competition Jenny was involved in, the outfit requirements are predetermined. It simply, becomes a matter of fit and feel. For other situations, it is important to exercise discretion in regard to what you choose to wear. For example, a number of individuals have difficulty knowing how to dress for a job interview. Without bringing up job specifics, what one is wearing when meeting someone new is often part of the initial impression. Dressing for success is just one important way to show that you are someone who is conscientious. Really, there are just a handful of key rules to follow when trying to dress for a successful interview.

1. Keep modesty as a key priority. Wearing clothing that is suggestive, be it low cut or too tight is not a good tactic. The attention you will get will not be the kind of attention you are hoping to receive. Immodesty is a distraction and may very well be an embarrassment to the other party. Why should you jeopardize potential employment for something so avoidable?

2. Do not choose overbearing colors or patterns. Loud clothing can take away the focus from the individual to what is being worn. Very bright patterns can be distracting or off putting. It is great to exercise individuality in matters of dress and style, but when interviewing for most jobs, a toned down appearance will benefit the process. You want to be remembered for your skills not as the girl or guy in the Hawaiian shirt..

3. Choose an outfit that is clean and pressed. Employers do not necessarily make a mental note that your clothing is clean and pressed but they will most certainly notice if it is not!

4. Dress in a way that is fitting to the occasion. Some job interviews call for business attire while other situations require no specific formality. Be aware of an environment prior to interviewing so that you are dressed appropriately.

5. Tasteful attire can be found in all price ranges. Dressing for success requires a little premeditation but it need not be expensive. Tasteful outfits can be created on even the most minimal budget. Employers are unlikely to notice whether or not an interview is wearing name brand clothing or expensive accessories. - 31497

About the Author:

List of Good Activities for Children with Hyperactivity

By Connor Sullivan

David was the type of student who was known for having a great deal of energy. On many occasions, his high energy level made it difficult for him to focus on things that required him to sit still or to be calm. He was only in first grade but was already experiencing struggles at school. His teacher suggested that this was related to his having an abundance of energy. David was lucky to have parents who were willing to find ways for him to release his energy. They consulted with his teachers and with a child psychologist who evaluated the energy level of David. Suggestions for controlling high energy were made by both teachers and the psychologist. Some of the suggestions involved reordering home life to include meaningful work for David, as well as age appropriate mental and physical tasks to keep him busy. His parents began utilizing a behavioral chart where they kept track of all the ways David helped and followed directions throughout the week. One of the biggest changes they made was to enroll David in a structured activity which would help him learn to control and release some of his energy. Mom and Dad took David to shop for karate uniforms as this was the activity they all three chose for him. Finding the right karate gi jacket and pants was easy and fun. Soon David enjoyed finding success through participating in this martial art. If you have a child who exhibits traits of those who have a high energy level the following activities are often recommended as good choices for energy release.

1. Tae Kwon Do is a really great activity for the child who struggles with high energy levels or focus issues. The art of Tae Kwon Do teaches body control and discipline and it is an excellent activity for a child trying to learn to control both mind and body.

2. Swimming is a very popular choice for children who are looking to get rid of some extra energy. The sport of swimming works the muscles hard but in a very safe and low impact environment. Children do not have to worry about injury to joints, muscles, or bones and learning to swim safely as a child is extremely beneficial later in life. Many children also experience a calming sensation from being immersed in water.

3. Involvement in gymnastics can assist a high energy young person in getting the exercise he or she needs. Participation in gymnastics teaches kids how to control body movements and offers a disciplined and structured environment.

4. Long distance running is a great choice for children looking to find a physical activity that is challenging. Distance running, although not necessarily for the young child, teaches endurance, perseverance, and patience.

5. Participation in dance class can be a perfect choice of activity for the child with a high energy level. Particularly for the child who is not interested in sporting activities, music and movement offer a wonderful outlet for energy. The impact of music is also often very profound for a child looking for outlets for a high energy level. - 31497

About the Author:

What Led to the Development of Classical Karate!

By Al Case

The very first move of Karate, as taken from the first Heian or Pinan form, is a step to the side with a low block. But Karate was not designed for blocking. Yes, there are blocks in the art, and it can be adapted to blocking and striking modes, but it was not designed for blocking except by the way.

Karate was designed to guard the king of Okinawa. The Imperial bodyguards were trained to use their art in a room filled with warriors from different countries. Soldiers with different weapons and ways of fighting, while the Okinawans had to remain unarmed.

Thus, would you block a samurai sword? Would you try to deflect a bullet? Because these were the real weapons that the bodyguards had to face.

Consider also that the first order given samurai, if they were to attempt to kidnap the king of Okinawa, would be to handle the bodyguards. This means that samurai would move forward and grip the wrists of the bodyguards, perhaps preparatory to tying the hands, or merely moving the bodyguards from the throne room, or otherwise controlling them. And this means that the first defense of the bodyguards, as described by the first technique in most style of karate, would be to step in, dropping the weight and arm, thus escaping from the technique and head butting the men who tried to so restrain them.

That's right, an evasion for a wrist hold, then a violent step forward to close with and punch and shove the samurai, or whoever the warriors were. This would disrupt the attackers. This would allow the king to be removed from the throne room.

Now, take a close look at the kata. This is the only application that really seems to work. This is the start of the art that the Okinawans created had in mind.

If the samurai drew a sword, the bodyguard had to close with the samurai. This is the reason for the big steps in the form, to enable the bodyguards to get so close the samurai couldn't draw their swords. This explains the moves of forms that have been adapted to block and counter moves that, really, don't make sense in such a situation.

If a samurai attempted to close with a bodyguard and restrain him, the bodyguard had to break the grip, head butt, then push forward. This is the truth behind the first technique of karate, and this is the start of how the art was designed to work. Thinking about the movements in this manner reveals an art that is true beyond belief, but only if you can put aside the way you were taught and believe in the true art known as karate. - 31497

About the Author:

Guitar Instruction DVD - Wide Variety of Instructional DVDs

By John W. Collins

Learning an instrument is meant to be fun and whilst some people find it simple, many users struggle at first. Never overlook these difficulties and remember that popular guitar tabs can be a great place to start learning from.

However you decide to learn is okay as long as you enjoy it and manage some progress. There is no science in how to play guitar, you need to develop your own style.

We are always interested to hear comment and feedback from our readers so if you have any stories, ideas or tips about learning to play guitar, please let us know. Whether you are a solo artist or you play in a band, tell us how you learned and what you think worked best for you.

Whether this makes you popular at parties or gives you fun, it can be a good talent to have. There are so many different levels of skill involved with playing guitar it would be impossible to master them all but never forget the fun that can be had from easy guitar tabs for beginners.

It is important to always keep learning and developing in life, not just with guitars. This is where popular guitar tabs can be a useful too to have as it will allow you to chart your progress from where you started out your lessons.

A lead guitarist may get more attention from people because they do the flashier sounds and moves but both guitarists are a vital part of any band. A rhythm guitarist provides the platform for the other musicians to weave over the top and is a strong component of any number of bands.

It may not work for everyone but being aware of your development can be a useful guide to your own sense of development. No matter how great a guitar you are, there is always likely to be scope for improvement and you should never stop developing.

That said, any beginner is recommended to examine popular guitar tabs and improving from there. There is a lot that can be learned from playing simple styles of music and it offers a strong base to develop from. - 31497

About the Author:

The Reason Bruce Lee Knew One Particular Style Will Not Match Up With All

By Scott Buendia

I had another conversation with my JKD (Jeet Kune Do) traditional co-worker and we talked about his experience sparring in his old school. He described precisely how they used to do a "round robin" sparring session where one person would stay in and other folks would come in fresh every minute (which is very popular in Mixed Martial Arts or MMA preparation right this moment mind you).

Here's what he stated, "Yeah, a single style can't fit all due to the fact you will fight left handers, right handers, short individuals, taller folks, and even if two people are the same in terms of height and weight, they approach battling totally distinctive!" (To some extent paraphrased by the way.) This is a very true assertion, no art, or style will probably accommodate every fighter you encounter, it is possible to change your style but even so you're going to have to make modifications. This is exactly why Bruce Lee was such a big fan of becoming like water.

You need to adjust to every unique problem, because you don't know what it is gonna be like. Are you going to have to be a ground fighter to win, a stand up fighter, a stick fighter, a knife fighter, a gun expert? What is actually it gonna be? The competence to transfer between the styles is what's essential. This is exactly why mixed martial arts are so intriguing to most of the people. Because it is not like boxing where, if you clinch, then you need to separate. The fight keeps going. Or kickboxing where it is the same, you are able to kick and punch, but you have to separate when you clinch again. Or even Jiu-Jitsu or grappling tournaments, you can not punch. If you meet someone in the street it could be several of these elements, plus that person's associates.

Last night I was watching Paul Vunak's Sierra Summit tape and he said this, "There are only a small number of individuals who can change from range to range to range (kickboxing, punching, clinch, ground, and weapons for instance). If you can do that, you'll likely have a very good possibility of surviving a genuine fight." (Paraphrased again).

Are you ready to roll through all possibilities ranges of the fight? If you are not then you should be getting ready to do that. It's essential to seek out learning all ranges of a fight, such as the ground, stand up, tie ups, and weapons (if you are in a street fight). In this manner, you give yourself the best chance of making it through. - 31497

About the Author:

Martial Arts And Childern - Why Do They Go Fine Together?

By Dustin Fennell

When you hear martial arts and childern, you might think: isn't that like teaching my little angel to be violent? The truth is this popular Asian discipline and sport will not teach your kid to be violent. Rather, it will focus on developing your child's discipline, among many other benefits.

Fight scenes in action blockbusters or even some cartoons may not really be suitable for kids to learn and imitate. But as with any other sports - combat or competitive ones - violence is not what it's about. So if you're looking for a leisure pursuit for your kiddo and he or she suggests martial arts, continue reading. By the end of this article, you will find out why it's okay for your child to learn it.

First and foremost, your little one will find it fun to be with other kids, doing the same thing. This is a great way to spend your child's free time. And instead of sitting all day on the couch in front of the TV or playing with action figures. He or she will gain more friends as well, aside from those from school or around the neighborhood.

As mentioned earlier, it helps encourage discipline. The set of rules and protocols enforced during training helps your child to learn how to listen and follow. It is also in here where the sport is stressed as not about violence or oppressing someone. But rather, it is simply a form of self defense.

Upon enrollment, your little one will start from the lowest skill level. Eventually, he or she will progress into different levels. Thus, it promotes motivation. And it's the kind of motivation your kid will have to provide alone, as you will not be there to lend a helping hand. Learning to stay focused and strive hard to reach goals will definitely be an asset later on in your child's adulthood.

When your child engages in any type of sport, he or she will go through both winning and losing. But that is definitely okay. Your kid will learn how to cope with defeat early on, and deal with disappointment. Learning to stand up and strive hard to achieve success is part of the learning process as well.

Parents and doctors worldwide are alarmed at the increasing incidents of obesity among children. That is why letting your kids engage in sports or any physical activity will keep those excessive pounds at bay. As early as now, your child will understand the importance of being fit, and most likely carry this attitude towards adulthood.

When looking for an institution where to enroll your kid, there are some things you might want to consider. First, see to it that the instructors are qualified to teach it, especially among children. Second, the place should be well-maintained and safe for your little one. Lastly, see to it that it has a flexible schedule, so as not to interfere with your little one's schooling. When everything is well prepared, you will see that martial arts and childern can go well hand in hand. - 31497

About the Author:

Fedor Emelianenko To Face Brett Rogers In Strikeforce Debut

By Ross Everett

Fedor Emelianenko will make his debut for the Strikeforce MMA promotion this fall, facing undefeated prospect Brett Grim Rogers. Strikeforce CEO Scott Coker made the announcement at a Showtime promoted Fedor open workout in New York City. The promotion has yet to announce a date or a venue.

Fedor is considered by most experts to be the best heavyweight MMA fighter in the world, if not the best of all time. He snubbed the UFC following Afflictions exit from the MMA promotion business, choosing to sign with the up-and-coming Strikeforce promotion. Strikeforce agreed to co-promote with M1 Global, a Russian based promotion company owned by Fedor's manager Vadim Finkelchtein and to allow the fighter a non-exclusive deal that would enable him to compete in Japan and Eastern Europe.

After signing with Strikeforce, Fedor displayed his typical humility:

I am looking forward to going back to work and fighting at the highest level. STRIKEFORCE is a top fight promotion that houses some of the greatest fighters in the world. I am prepared to fight any of them.

Emelianenkos manager, Vadim Finkelchtein noted:

I am very happy and excited about the upcoming collaboration with Strikeforce. We are very pleased that we found a reliable partner and I feel that Strikeforce and M-1 can support each other on many things. This will create big opportunities for both parties to test their fighters against worthy opponents.

Strikeforce CEO Scott Coker concurred:

We are extremely excited to have the opportunity to work with M-1 Global and Fedor. Fedor has been the reigning king of MMAs heavyweight division for quite some time now so being able to work with M-1 and Fedor will substantially increase the level of competition amongst the athletes in this weight class.

Fedor will put his 26 fight winning streak on the line against Brett Grim Rogers, who himself will enter the fray with an unblemished 10-0 record. The Minnesota native was originally being groomed by Elite XC as an opponent for street fighting phenom Kimbo Slice. After the demise of that promotion, Kimbo ended up on the UFC reality show The Ultimate Fighter while Rogers went to Strikeforce. His stock shot up precipitously following a first round knockout of former UFC champion Andrei Arlovski in his last fight, and now he takes an even bigger step up in class against The Last Emperor.

Considering that Emelianenko was a -500 choice at many books in the ill fated Affliction matchup against Josh Barnett(ranked the #2 heavyweight in the world at the time), he could be a -750 chalk or higher against the tough but inexperienced Rogers. - 31497

About the Author:

The Truth About the Failure of Classical Karate!

By Al Case

Karate, as it is done in modern times, is absolutely nothing like the Karate invented centuries ago. There are many reasons for this, cultural, historical, vested interest, and on and on. This article will pin point the exact reasons Karate has changed, and it is considered a failure in the eyes of many people.

Karate was developed to defend the emperor of Okinawa. The techniques gathered together were specific in their intent, and that intent was shaped by having to deal with a variety of different weapons and soldiers. Interestingly, Karate was not specifically designed for blocking and striking, though that can be considered as workable, and more to do with disarming and maiming.

The Japanese eventually forced the King of Okinawa to reside in Japan, where he was treated like a guest, but was still nothing but a prisoner. With the king gone, what reason did the bodyguards have to teach and pursue their art? Thus, lessons were taught to children to give strength and good health, but the maiming and butchery of the pure art was left out.

Eventually, Karate migrated to Japan, where it proved more than comparable to the arts of the Japanese. One must take into account, however, that the Japanese had stolen the imperial king. Thus, if the teachers of Karate even knew the truth behind their art, would they be willing to teach the people who had stolen their king?

The next step in the evolution of Karate came when the Americans conquered Japan. They did this by dropping an atomic bomb, and now we have the same scene as described in the last paragraph. One has to ask whether the Japanese, if they even knew the true art, would teach the people who had dropped an atomic bomb on them.

Finally. the art arrives in America. It is commercialized, made safe for children, and altered for tournaments. People are more concerned about reaching black belt and seeing the latest fight night than they are about the potential for knowledge through the art.

Finally, the art starts to fail as a workable self-defense. People laugh about MacDojos, and the brutality of MMA, at least workable, is held up to the light. Yet, the question is inherent here...what was the original art?

What is that art that was designed to maim and destroy in defense of honor and king? What is that art that plumbs the soul and reveals the depths of the man? I say it is still there, the true martial art is still there...you just have to be willing to look for it and work for it. - 31497

About the Author:

Learning Parkour - 3 Ways You Can Learn Parkour

By Grace Robins

In this article we will discuss ways of learning parkour and the 3 best methods of doing so. This exciting and fascinating sport is becoming more and more popular, but that doesn't mean it is easy, far from it. Read the reasons below to see how you can get started in this noncompetitive sport.

1. Youtube Videos: Youtube has a variety of videos available to you for free. From basic moves to more advanced there is something there for everyone. Online videos showing you examples are a great way to learn, and learning from someone who is more advanced will help you to perfect your own techniques.

2. Parkour Handbook: In addition to videos, you can get a Parkour and Free Running handbook that will teach you the essentials and get you started in the world of parkour. You'll learn more about the history as well as some basic moves.

It is essentially a user's manual that includes information about the techniques, the culture, the clothes and more information about the urban communities that are popping up all over with a common interest in this noncompetitive sport.

3. Find a Group: Groups can be found all over the place now, especially in urban locations. Urban landscapes are ideal for using parkour techniques. Having endless places to practice and hone your skills is essential to this sport.

By joining a group, you can learn the ropes, have the security of a spotter to help you with new moves and find inspiration for your own moves by watching others who excel at the sport. Attempting some parkour and free running moves might be a bit intimidating at first, trying a back flip on your own could even result in injury. But with help from a community even the hardest tricks will start to become easy.

This article discussed 3 ways of learning parkour that can help a complete beginner as well as someone who is more advanced. To learn parkour while decreasing the risk of injury, you can watch Youtube videos and get a beginners guide into the world of parkour and free running.

You can also join a group or community in your area and start learning parkour. Having support and others able to help you practice parkour tricks can be a great way to learn without risking injury.

Want to know more? - 31497

About the Author:

Mark Coleman Cut From UFC

By Ross Everett

Not too long ago, Mark Coleman headlined UFC 109 facing Randy Couture. Several days later, he's apparently no longer good enough to remain in the UFC at all. On Wednesday, following a lopsided loss to Couture the UFC released Coleman from his contract and cut the veteran heavyweight. Coleman is now free to sign with any other promotion, but at 46 years of age his most likely-and most advisable-course of action is retirement. Retirement is a tough thing for any pro athlete to swallow, however, and fighters in particular have had difficulty in ending their career gracefully.

Coleman became the first UFC fighter to be cut immediately after headlining a PPV event. Others have left due to drug test failures or for other opportunities, but none have ever been cut from their contract. Sources close to the UFC suggest that it was a decision no one wanted to make, but that all felt was unavoidable due to Coleman's age and deteriorating skills.

While the fact that Coleman is a shell of the fighter he was at his prime, the UFC's suggestion that they have his best interest at heart is somewhat duplicitous. He was kept around and booked into last Saturday's fight--a fight that no one particularly had any interest in seeing in the first place--simply because he was a fighter that Randy Couture could beat. Were the UFC interested in the well being of their aging fighters there's several others on the roster that should also be cut for the same justification as Coleman. Couture, Tito Ortiz and Chuck Liddell are all well past their prime but they're still under contract and will all likely fight again. No one wants to *see* an endless parade of old timers into the octagon, but the UFC seems determined to shove their version of the 'senior's tour' down the throats of the MMA fanbase.

Coleman's age has never been a secret and his diminished skill level was evident to anyone who has watched his recent fights. If the UFC was really interested in his physical well being, the main event against Couture should have never taken place. The fight itself wasn't exactly one that UFC fans had been clamoring for and one that met with derision from the MMA media from the time it was announced.

While retirement would be in Coleman's best interest, he may attempt to fight in a smaller US promotion or in Japan where he's well known from his time in PRIDE. He's already a member of the UFC Hall of Fame with a 26-10 career record and has fought the best in the world including Fedor Emelianenko, Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira and Mirko Cro Cop. - 31497

About the Author:

The Concept Of Breathing In Martial Arts Training

By Gabriel Lozen

One of the most crucial elements of martial arts training is breathing correctly. This is important because the underlying philosophy is that proper breathing results in your body getting cleansed from within. All toxic wastes such as carbon dioxide get eliminated due to this cleansing and are replaced by fresh oxygen and nutrients.

If you are just starting to discover the importance of breathing in your martial arts training, you will find the following exercises very useful.

The most basic methods of learning how to breathe properly are Attention Breathing and Abdominal Breathing.

While practicing either of these techniques make sure you focus on breathing through your nose. Normally just breathing through the nose is difficult when you are practicing martial arts exercises. However, for the purpose of these breathing techniques it is essential you use just your nose. While breathing, imagine you are creating a closed circuit by breathing in through your nose and then again breathing out the same way. Every time you breathe through your moth, the circuit gets broken and the energy gets dissipated.

You need to be aware of the fact that everyone does not breathe in the same manner. Children breathe differently from older people. When people are excited they will tend to breathe more rapidly as compared to when they are depressed. When you are at peace, your breathing will be deep and slow.

The Attention Breathing method is about focusing your attention on the natural flow of your breath. You do not need to do anything to change it. You only need to take note of the way the breathing process is occurring within your body. You can do this by feeling the air when it enters your nostrils, then circulates through your lungs and finally gets exhaled. As you concentrate and feel the movement of the air through your body, your breathing will become smoother and more even.

If you feel your concentration waning, try and focus back. Practice this method for at least five minutes at the same time every day. Once you get used to this, try and practice it at other times during the course of the day. Gradually, without your realizing it, this awareness will become integrated into your life.

Abdominal Breathing is one of the easiest breathing techniques to master as it is actually different to do it incorrectly. The basic concept behind this method is to fill up your lungs with air completely. This is important since we usually tend to breathe with just the upper half of our lungs. The Abdominal Breathing method helps in expanding the capacity of your lungs.

To practice this technique, breathe in through the nose. Expand your abdomen slowly and allow the air to fill your lower lungs. Do this in a smooth and gentle manner. Once your abdomen is full, breathe out through the nose and keep pulling your abdomen in slowly. As you inhale, your abdomen should expand and with each exhalation your abdomen should contract. Repeat this method in sets of ten. - 31497

About the Author:

How to Use Matrix Martial Arts to Read Minds!

By Al Case

There are times in life when it seems as if you have actually looked into someones mind. Maybe you just blurt out the phrase at the same time, or have the same thought on a hamburger stand. Sometimes, however, it is as if you have looked into somebodys mental process and know exactly what they are thinking.

The martial arts build this ability, and a good martial art does it in a quite speedy fashion. Indeed, if you aren't effectively looking into minds after a couple of years, there is probably something wrong with the martial art you are studying. If this is so, you should look into applying some principles from Matrix Martial Arts and tweaking your art so it enables you to read minds.

The first time you realize that you can look into somebody elses mind is usually during freestyle. You intuitively know what technique your opponent is considering using, and, as time goes on, you begin fitting intuitive responses to whatever he does. Many people think this is because of the freestyle, but it is really because of the forms that you have been perfecting in your martial arts.

Yes, freestyle provides the situation where you can realize your abilities, but forms provides the energy and context for developing those abilities. Without forms, you won't be able to read minds in the martial arts, except on the lowest level. Give up doing your forms, and you are left with fighting, and fighting does not lead to reading minds.

When doing a form one learns how to control their body, making it do things one couldn't make it do before. Then, one learns that it is the control of the mind that is really enabling him to control the body. Lastly, one starts to understand that behind any action in this universe, there must be a thought.

The universe is nothing but a space filled with objects that float around. Being able to read minds, you see, is being able to predict the path of objects. Predicting the path of objects just means that you start looking further out in space to see them coming.

What the matrixing procedure does, as practiced in Matrix Martial Arts, is organize the data so that one can see beyond the confusion. Matrixing analyzes and handles force and direction, and thus, one can take in more space, and analyze and handle more force and direction. Once one can do this through the practice of the martial arts, one can begin doing it to the rest of life.

Want to get a better deal when you trade in your vehicle, or maybe get the girl of your dreams? You can do so if you use matrixing to analyze and handle the forces and directions involved. And whether you study a form of kung fu, be it fut ga or tong long or monkey boxing, or whether you study karate, such as wado ryu or kyokushnkai or whatever, you can use Matrix Martial Arts to align it, and to align life itself. - 31497

About the Author:

Brock Lesnar To Defend UFC Heavyweight Title Against Shane Carwin

By Ross Everett

Brock Lesnar will make his first defense of the UFC heavyweight title at UFC 106 against another college wrestling standout, Shane Carwin. The event will take place at Las Vegas Mandalay Bay Events Center on November 21st, and will also feature the return of Tito Ortiz to UFC action against rugged veteran Mark Coleman.

Lesnar defeated Randy Couture at UFC 91 to become heavyweight champion, and avenged an early defeat to Interim heavyweight champion Frank Mir at UFC 100 to unify the belts. Lesnar, a former WWE pro wrestling superstar, has enjoyed a meteoric rise to the top of the UFC heavyweight ranks"his defense against Carwin will be only his sixth professional fight. Though hes relied greatly on his wrestling ability and overwhelming size and strength, the 63 265 pound Lesnar has improved as a fighter every time out.

Making this matchup very intriguing is the fact that Carwin has the size and strength to match up with Lesnar. Working in Carwins favor is his relative experience (hes 11-0) and an excellent training infrastructure provided by Greg Jackson, considered by many to be the best trainer in the sport.

Much of the promotion for the fight will revolve around the personality differences of the two men. Lesnar became the biggest heel in the UFC with an unsportsmanlike display following his UFC 100 victory.

Carwin, on the other hand, is one of the more likably humble fighters in the sport. He earned a degree in engineering from the Colorado College of Mines and until recently worked fulltime as an engineer while pursuing his fighting career. Hes been highly critical of Lesnars behavior ever since UFC 100, and depending on who you ask may also have some personal animosity that goes beyond that. At any rate, its the sort of storyline that makes for box office and PPV gold.

Dana White announced the matchup with the following statement:

Brock is ready to go now and wants to fight. Carwin makes the most sense. Gonzaga destroyed Cro Cop and he (Carwin) totally destroyed Gonzaga. Plus, he hates Brock Lesnar. Its going to be two huge guys going at it. Hes got the power to knock anybody out and hes got great wrestling, too. Hes one of the guys that has the size to match up with Brock, too.

With two fighters that are physically and tactically mirror images of the other, anything can literally happen. While Lesnars fans might not know much about the relatively low key Carwin, hes a definite threat to take the UFC heavyweight title. It'll be the proverbial 'unstoppable force' meeting the 'immovable object' with it being anyone's guess as to which fighter will prevail. - 31497

About the Author:

Kung Fu - Martial Arts

By Tony Garrudo

Kung Fu is seen primarily as a form of self defense, but it can also be used as a form of exercise and is seen as a cultural artform. This martial art is common around the world, it can be called 'Kuo Shu', 'Wu Shu' or 'Gung Fu'. It is similar to Karate, in the way it applies foot and hand movements. Along with being a popular martial art, Kung Fu has been around for a very long time, it is amongst the oldest of all martial arts.

With origins that trace back to the widely known Shaolin Temple, a few variations and styles of Kung Fu, are more popular than the rest. Although there is much popularity in the Kung Fu styles rooted in the Shaolin Temple, individuals may not realize that many years prior to the construction of the first Shaolin Temple, people were practicing Kung Fu.

Self defense is usually seen as the primary role of all martial arts, especially Kung Fu. Self defense is indeed one role of Kung Fu and other martial arts, but what you may not know is Kung Fu should be used for a lot more than simply fighting technique. Kung Fu helps to focus the body, but along with it the mind and soul.

Kung Fu doesn't teach students to overcome others, as it teaches students to look within themselves and learn to have complete and total control over their emotions. Kung Fu is an art of harmony, that teaches to students to remain at peace and avoid confrontations. If a situation threatens bodily harm to the student, then he must rise to the occasion - becoming the warrior and defending himself.

In order to be able to master the appropriate movements and techniques, Martial arts students, including those practicing Kung Fu, learn to utilize the balance essential for such skills. Just as the Chinese ascribe to the belief that there is a balance required between heaven and earth, Kung Fu relies upon the same balance to execute the techniques of this martial art. It is believed that by totally freeing your mind of any outside diversions or interference, you will be able to attain this balance.

Kung Fu is a martial art that can be learned by anyone. It does take a strong desire, just like any other martial art. It has a rich heritage, and a proud legacy. Kung Fu is indeed a deadly martial art, if used in the wrong ways. There are variations of Kung Fu as well, which include the infamous five animals - Tiger, Dragon, Eagle Claw, Crane, and the Snake. - 31497

About the Author:

Incorporating Weight Training Into Your Martial Arts

By Ryan Stiller

In the past, practitioners of martial arts discouraged weight training. Present day trainers have realized however that weight training makes your body stronger and more resistant to injuries. Weight training if done properly, complements martial arts training and helps in improving technique.

Here are a few basic weight training tips for martial arts students.

Before starting on your weight training, warm up for about 15 minutes on a treadmill or other equipment. Warming up prevents injuries. If you want to build your strength as well as your endurance, then you should work out as hard as possible. If your aim is just strength building then a light workout is sufficient. A typical regimen should comprise exercises involving the bench press, pull ups, dumbbell curls, dips, squats, hamstring curls, calf raises, crunches and hyperextensions.

Complete one warm up set and two working sets for every exercise. Start with the most difficult and the heaviest exercises and gradually move on to the lightest ones.

While doing squats, make sure your posture is right. Your knees should remain firm and not wobble during the exercise.

Each set of exercises should comprise 8 to 12 repetitions. Keep exercising with a specific weight until you are easily able to do more than 12 repetitions with it. Now increase the weight and start off doing 8 repetitions. Slowly increase the repetitions to 12 before moving on to the next higher weight. It is advisable to use free weights when you exercise. Use machines only if you have injuries.

You should keep yourself well hydrated at all times during your workout. This will prevent cramps and muscle tears. You should keep your energy levels up during your workout by eating a small, carbohydrate rich snack. Once you finish exercising, wait for an hour before eating a meal loaded with carbohydrates and proteins in order to aid recovery.

Do not stretch the duration of your workout to more than an hour. Else you will tend to tire yourself out. Normally weight training once a week is enough. In the initial stages you will experience quick gains in strength. This will slow down after a while so don't get alarmed. Do not exercise the same set of muscles every day as this will lead to injury. Respect your body and eat and rest well to get the maximum benefit out of your weight training regimen. Neglecting any of these aspects will lead to injuries and hamper your training. - 31497

About the Author:

Learning The Art Of Karate

By Robert Smith

Martial arts can be used for numerous things, they can simply be used as exercise, meditation techniques, maybe a bit of fun. More often than not they will be used for self defense however. There are a number of martial arts that are used all over the world.

Bruce lee can be credited with making martial arts specifically popular and famous. Jeet Kune Do is the fighting style created by Bruce Lee, the essence of this style is lightening fast striking with exceptional counters. When Bruce Lee became well known, people were amazed at his speed and became interested in martial arts.

There are different styles of martial arts. Depending where you study and who trains you, will depend on which style you learn. Each country will usually have its own specific form of martial art. In Japan you will find Karate, Brazil has Brazilian Jui-Jitsu, Muay Thai will be found in Thailand and China has Shaolin, with France having Savate. Each style is different from the rest, and as such offers different experiences.

Most people think of self defense when they contemplate martial arts, however this is not the only thing martial arts are useful for. There are plenty of competitions and tournaments involving martial arts, there are also shows and demonstrations such as brick breaking and the such. You can test your skill against fighters around the world in all sorts of tournaments.

In general, all martial arts will teach you how to defend yourself and above all else - help you develop self control. Once you begin to study a martial art, you'll quickly start to develop a much better state of mind. No matter what style of martial art you study, the instructors will drill self control into your head.

Those of you who have a bad temper or just need to learn self control, martial arts can be very beneficial to study. Not only will you learn self control, you'll also learn how to defend yourself in the most drastic of situations. Self control is very important, as martial arts can be very deadly if they are taught to the wrong person - with the wrong intentions. - 31497

About the Author:

Getting Out of Your Body with Classical Martial Arts!

By Al Case

If you are studying a well established martial art, especially karate based, and often shaolin based, then you may experience being out of your body. The odd thing is that many martial artists don't know they are getting out of their body. They shift their viewpoint, are out of their body, and think they are the same as everybody else.

By getting out of your body I don't mean giant brains floating through the universe. I merely mean that you are a little outside your head, not quite sure where your viewpoint is, but know that it is not from your eyes. This often leads to increased intensity and martial abilities that are beyond the normal human being.

The surest way to make this happen is to just keep doing your forms. Like a truck driver who lets his mind wander while doing a long drive, the karateka, or kung fu stylist, just gets comfortable, and slowly starts looking at the world in a different way. He starts looking at his body and realizing that he is not his body, that his arms are a little longer.

What has happened is that in learning to control his body, making it accomplish finer and finer motions, the person has gotten out. Some body movements just require that the person be outside his body to really make them work, and as the martial artist makes his moves work, he doesn't even realize that he is sliding out of the body. Then he starts doing things differently, doesn't realize that he has made some sort of a change, and life goes on.

The problem, of course, is not that this happens, the problem is to make it happen faster. Being slightly removed from your body makes you a better martial artist, and better in many other ways. Your karate or kung fu or whatever becomes more improved, and there you have the source of legends, and an better version of human beings.

I started using Matrix Martial Arts to accomplish this speeding up. The reason matrixing works is because it is logical, scientific, and takes into account all potential body motions. Simply, if you can see the whole picture, when it comes to moving the body in the martial arts, then it is easier to take control of the body.

The first step in matrixing is to learn how to use your body as one unit. I call this CBM, or Coordinated Body Motion. It is when you start all motion at the same time, end all motion at the same time, and regulate all factors of size, mass, muscle, and so on of the movement being done.

Once CBM is realized you are ready for the next step of Matrixing. Having harmonized the movements of your body, you are now in a position to harmonize the art itself, and you start to move back from your body at a quicker speed. Whether you do a form of Karate, or Shaolin, or whatever, the matrixing method in Matrix Martial Arts is going to everything happen much faster, and you will reach the true art in years instead of lifetimes. - 31497

About the Author:

A Brief Introduction to Mixed Martial Arts

By Lin Connor

You might have heard or even be familiar with martial arts like judo or karate. But, are you aware that there is a sport called mixed martial arts?

Mixed martial arts differ from other martial art disciplines in that it uses various martial art techniques. It is a full contact combat type sport in which competitors try to take control of their opponents using the same or different techniques like punching and grappling while standing and when they are on the ground

Mixed martial arts or MMA was originally called Pankration when it was first introduced in the Olympic Games by the Greeks in 648 B.C. There are records that prove that a similar version of this sport was continued to be played through the 1800's and 1900's until it was introduced as the mixed martial arts in 1993 when the Ultimate Fighting Championship or UFC was established.

Mixed martial art was founded when martial art fighters of different disciplines were gathered to determine which technique was effective in a combat situation. Initially there were very few rules set out for mixed martial arts, but now many rules have been implemented for the safety of the fighters and to help in the growth of this sport.

Because of these rules many mixed martial arts competitions like the Ultimate Fighting Championship can now be viewed on television. Statistics show that the popularity of MMA is increasing tremendously and has more audiences than wrestling. This is evident in the number of people who prefer to watch the pay per view MMA channels over other two sports.

Today there are five different weight categories in MMA that are approved by UFC and they are the 67 to 70 kg category called lightweight, the 71 to 77 kg called welterweight, the 78 to 84 kg called middleweight, the 85 to 93 kg called light heavyweight and the 94 to 120 kg called heavy weight. There are also four other different weight categories but are not used by UFC currently.

MMA differs from wrestling and boxing in many ways and one of them is the shape of the ring. In boxing and wrestling the competitions are held in rectangular shaped rings, while the ring for mixed martial arts has an octagonal shape. All the eight sides of the ring are made of metal chain link fence that has a black vinyl coating. The ring has entry and exits gates that are situated at the opposite ends. The top of the fence and the edges of the eight sides are well protected with adequate safety padding.

Competitors are required to wear appropriate attire when they enter the ring. The attire consists of approved shorts and gloves but no shoes. The gloves should have at least one inch of protective padding covering the knuckles to avoid any injury while trying to grab and get hold of their opponents.

In a mixed martial arts competition the match ends the instant when one of the competitors taps the ground or is knocked down unconscious. The fighter who is still standing wins the match. In case both the fighter are standing at the end of a match, the presiding judges choose the winner

A foul is declared by the referee if a fighter makes any illegal contacts and points are deducted for the fighter who made the illegal contact. A competitor who makes a foul intentionally can be disqualified or if it was an unintended foul then the referee might declare a no contest. - 31497

About the Author:

How to Achieve an Aikido Moment of Enlightenment

By Al Case

Morihei Uyeshiba, in 1925, was 42 years old. Many people came to call upon him, for everybody knew he was one of the top martial artists of the times. One day a naval officer was visiting, and the discussion between the two men escalated into an argument.

The naval officer held that it was impossible to avoid a well swung sword, and O Sensei held that it was possible. The two faced each other, argument became reality, and O Sensei succeeded in avoiding a sword that was well swung. After the match, Master Uyeshiba stepped to a well and poured water over his head, and had a moment of profound realization that was to shape the martial arts forever.

The core of this realization was that all men are spiritual brothers, and all should live in harmony. Undoubtedly, other martial artists over the ages have experienced similar moments of enlightenment, but Uyeshiba's realization was unique to his times, and central to the founding of a specific method. Aikido is a method which results in people realizing harmony within their spirit.

The essence of this method is that one should duplicate the motion of an attacker, and join to it. The reality is that if you do this in the physical, the mind starts to go along with it, and you achieve a Uyeshiba Moment of Enlightenment. This has become a proven method, with Aikido spreading across the world and providing moments and levels of spiritual peace and harmony.

This universe is made up of objects that travel through space. Unfortunately, most people, and this means most arts, tend to collide. Thus, Aikido allowed a method of no collision, but of control of the flight of objects to the benefit of all.

Ultimately, I realized that this method can be done more scientifically, and I created Matrix Aikido towards that end. The idea behind Matrix Aikido is not a reduction of the analysis of the trajectory of bodies in the universe, it is a concentration of that method through scientific intent.

In classical Aikido it can take decades, to achieve sufficient flow in one's thought to enable one to have an Aiki moment of enlightenment. This is because it takes a certain amount of real time to be able to do the stylized movements of Aikido. To negate this I began teaching Aiki from concepts, and the result is that the student doesn't memorize techniques, but rather creates them within the moment.

The martial arts are taught through methods that are arrangements of strings of random data. Matrixing puts aside those stylistic arrangements and thus enables the student of achieve a scientific rendering. There is no disservice to O Sensei in a method that enables one to achieve his moment of enlightenment sooner, there is only the call to teachers of the art to augment their instructional methods with my discoveries. - 31497

About the Author:

Sign Up for our Free Newsletter

Enter email address here