Mixed Martail Arts - Misconceptions Saturday, April 5, 2008
"Mixed Martial Arts" is hugely popular these days due to the UFC. Once again the media has convinced the public that this is something 'new' or 'fresh' and an innovative way to train that has been discovered or invented recently. The truth is that while some of the concepts MMA (mixed martial arts) are employing are healthy, the depth is still missing. And that makes me happy! I kind of enjoy the knowledge that the general public and popular figures are clueless.

But just for fun, lets look at what I mean here. So what is the problem with MMA? One would think intuitively that training in various disciplines such as Karate, Ju Jitsu, Boxing, etc. would create a well rounded fighter right? Well, yes, it does help but it is still just surface level. What is missing is the true depth and understanding of the connections, history and relationships among all arts for each application. The Japanese concept of "sogo" meaning well rounded or complete is a better and more scientific approach. For example, an MMA practitioner may learn a grappling technique in Ju Jitsu, a blocking or punching technique in karate and a cutting technique with a sword in Iaido but never understand how they are all actually the same technique put to a different application.

Even if they do see the similarities, they can never truly connect the dots universally unless they seek out the instruction of a select few individuals that exist in the world today.

More in next post.
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