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Just Start Drawing: Kids Karate Sensei Becomes White Belt Again–Part Two

January 7, 2011 By Sensei Matt Klein

little boy boxer

My little boy boxing champion

I’ve always been amazed by artists, especially by how easy they make it look. Just love a cool martial arts drawing, like a tiger, dragon, or samurai. I’ve always wanted to do it myself, but never really had the time. Well, if something is important to you, just make the time, as I often tell my students. So I, as the sensei, decided to practice what I preach.

Over the holidays, while working on a kids karate book (please don’t ask me how long I have been working on it) I realised how much easier it would be if I could just draw a few pictures and put them in where needed. Only problem, I don’t know how to draw. Minor details!

I started researching it (I love google!) and found that you can actually teach yourself to draw by tracing. No, it is not cheating, as some might say. It teaches your hands to move like they are supposed to move in creating your illustration. Does this sound familiar, folks? That is exactly how you learn the martial arts. Your body actually “feels” how a movement should be performed, as the sensei guides you. Not only that, you “see” in your mind the proper pencil strokes that create details, such as shading to create depth in a picture, just as you see the sensei’s fist recoil from a proper strike.

I went to Eckersley’s, a great arts store in Sydney, and bought a tracer box. What is that, you say? It’s a box with a light behind a piece of plexiglass, and when you put a photo or drawing on top, the picture, down to the finest detail, is there for you to “copy” (you have to make changes in the final illustration if you are planning to include it in any commercial work, for copyright reasons).

samurai with castle in background

A samurai with castle in background

Well, needless to say, I have become addicted to this, and it is one reason you haven’t seen a post for almost two weeks. I’ve bought heaps of pencils, pens, paper, and a few drawing books. I’m showing you some of my work here, some of which you will see in the book (yes, it is nearly done!). There is more to it than just “having the right tools”, and the vast majority of my work is really laughable, but I am sure having fun. I realise I have a huge amount to learn about art, and will never be Van Gogh, my favourite, but it feels great to be a white belt—again. Just start drawing.

For Kids Karate Sensei Becomes White Belt Again–Part One, please follow this link.

Filed Under: For the Martial Artist, For the Martial Arts Instructor

Why Do You Study Martial Arts?

November 26, 2010 By Sensei Matt Klein

The samurai trained hard in the martial arts

The samurai trained hard in the martial arts. Their life depended on it.

Why train in the martial arts? For the Samurai it was a matter of life or death. Their very survival depended on being fit and ready at all times. Nowadays there are many other reasons.

To get fit. Adults join especially for this reason. The martial arts will get you fit in more ways than one. It will strengthen your limbs and build up your heart and lungs. Fitness is a very popular reason.

To learn self-defence. Learning to defend yourself is another big reason to take up martial arts. There is no feeling like walking the streets with confidence, without any worries about your security and that of your family. For a child, protection from bullies is a very common motivation, and it certainly works.

To make friends. Many good friendships are built in the dojo. They sometimes last a lifetime as strong bonds form when you train hard with others.

All my friends are doing it. This is a very common reason for kids to start the martial arts, but probably less so for adults. Very often, if the leader of a peer group joins, the rest of the group will soon sign up.

To be able to do what they do in the movies. Again, this is more likely to be the motivation of a much younger person. In my day, it was Bruce Lee. When I started Kenpo for the first time at 18, this was my main motivation. I thought it would be cool to be able to move like Bruce Lee.

To obtain self-discipline and focus in my life. When I took up Kenpo again at 26, this was my main motivation. I was lacking direction in my life at the time, and the martial arts got me back on track. I have studied Kenpo since.

My kids started it, and it looked like good fun, so I did too. Many of those in our adults/parents classes started for this reason. Others started to help their children out. Some of them are now black belts.

My parents made me take martial arts. Unfortunately some kids start for this reason. Although I don’t support forcing it upon children, I have seen a number of children who, after obtaining black belt level, are happy their parents insisted upon it.

To have fun. Many kids join for this reason, as having fun is the biggest goal of a child.

For whatever reason people join martial arts classes, it rarely stays the same as they progress through the ranks. For me, competition, self-defence, and fitness became the most important reasons as time went on. Also, it became my life’s passion.

Why do you study martial arts? I pose this question to all of you. Let’s make this a fun post and get lots of answers, ok?

Filed Under: For the Martial Artist

The Night I Met Muhammad Ali: Getting What You Want Out of Life

September 18, 2010 By Sensei Matt Klein

Muhammad Ali in his prime

Muhammad Ali, on his way to becoming the greatest heavyweight boxer of all time

It was a mildly cool night in San Diego in the winter of 1992. I was with Laurie, my girlfriend at the time, enjoying a quiet dinner at an Italian restaurant in La Jolla. We heard a great commotion at the door, and in walks Muhammad Ali, the greatest heavyweight boxer of all time. A large entourage followed behind him. As he sat down, the whole of the restaurant focused on Ali, watching his every move. We found out later he was there celebrating his 50th birthday.

I said to Laurie, “I really wish I could meet him”. She said, “Why don’t you?” I explained, “You don’t just walk up to Muhammad Ali and say hello”. She looked at me and said, “Why not?” I thought for a moment and said, “What would I say to him”? She said, “Just be yourself, and the conversation will take care of itself”. I thought, how often in life do you get a chance to meet one of your true heroes? Before I could talk myself out of it, I shot up out of my seat and walked over to him. I patiently waited for the moment he had a break in the conversation with his friends; I did not want to interrupt Muhammad Ali.

My heart pumping wildly, I put my hand out and said, “I would like to introduce myself. As a martial artist, I have always admired what you have contributed to boxing and also to karate”. I told him I was aware of how Bruce Lee and many others had emulated his footwork and movement in the ring and how the martial arts had benefited from this. He looked at me and in a very soft, gentle voice said, “You know what? Not many people know that. I am pleased that you realised where it came from. Here, let me give you my autograph”. He wrote his autograph out for me, as we continued our chat. Needless to say, I was beside myself as I thanked him and walked back to my seat.

As I sat down Laurie smiled at me and said, “See, that wasn’t so hard. All you have to do is reach out for the things you want in life”. I regret that I did not have my camera with me that night. But many years later, I look at this autograph from one of the true legends of sport in my lifetime, and I smile to myself.

The Night I Met Muhammad Ali: Getting What You Want Out of Life is an original article by Sensei Matt Klein.

Filed Under: For the Martial Artist

Kids Karate Grading: How to Pass

August 28, 2010 By Sensei Matt Klein

Kids karate grading sparring

Get yourself ready for the grading by sparring as many rounds as possible--this will get you fit.

Kids–how do you pass your upcoming karate grading? Follow the dozen steps below and you will be on your way to your next rank.

Before the Kids Karate Grading

Ask the Sensei what will be on the grading. Many instructors will give you a handout that includes all the techniques on the actual grading–just ask for it. Some instructors will even let your parents video or photograph the techniques required.

Take the list home and mark the techniques in which you are not 100% sure; next class ask the sensei how to do them.

Once you have all the techniques down, have someone call them out one after the other. Now try to do it faster. Then do it in random order. By doing this, you are preparing yourself for the stress of the actual test, and you will know each technique by sound.

The forms or kata will take the most practice since they are the most difficult. Do them facing all directions and then do them with your eyes closed. Pay particular attention to the stances as that is what the sensei will look for. Do each form with intensity (imagine attackers coming at you), even while practicing.

Go to class early (or stay late) and ask one of the black belts to take you through a practice grading. Most will be willing to do this. The sensei will notice your initiative.

If your kids karate grading involves sparring, get yourself fit for it. Run, bicycle, hit the bags, anything to build up your heart and lungs. Do as many rounds of sparring as possible, even if it is only against a moving kick bag.

During the Grading

Get there early to warm up and stretch. This will help you get those kicks up and prevent injury. You do not want to pull a muscle on grading day. Even though most kids are naturally flexible, don’t take a chance.

Perform your techniques with full power. It is amazing how many people do not do this.

Spirit is really important. Yell your kiai each time you do a technique. Pop back into position so you are ready for the next move.

Do not let your classmates throw you off with their mistakes. Keep a razor-sharp focus on your imaginary opponent, right in front of you. Other kids may try to talk to you during the grading. Ignore them.

You will make mistakes, it is human nature and no one is perfect. Do not let it get you down. Improve on the remainder of the test and you will still have a good shot.

After the Grading

Pass or not, always ask the sensei how you can improve. This will help you next time you grade. It also shows the sensei that you care enough to ask.

Kids Karate Grading: How to Pass is an original article from Sensei Matt Klein. For more information check our kids karate classes in Sydney link.

Note: After this article was written, an excellent post at My Journey to Black Belt was written. In it Sue referred to many of the principles in this post. Thank you Sue.

Filed Under: For the Martial Artist, Martial Arts Resources for Parents Tagged With: karate, karate+grading, martial+arts, sports

Kenpo Freestyle Sydney Logo: What Does it Mean?

July 30, 2010 By Sensei Matt Klein

the kenpo freestyle logo

The Kenpo Freestyle Logo has many meanings behind it.

History of Kenpo Freestyle Logo

Kenpo Freestyle Academy, located in Sydney, was founded in 2000 by Matt Klein, now a 6th Degree black belt. It is based on American Kenpo Karate, with the addition of boxing, kickboxing, grappling, and additional weapons skills. It is the system under which all students of Australia’s Youth Self Defence Karate grade.

The logo was created in 2000 at the same time Kenpo Freestyle was founded. Many of my students have asked me what the graphic elements on the logo mean, so I have devoted this blog post to the explanation of the elements.

The Elements of the Logo

Like American Kenpo Karate, the main characters of the logo are the dragon and the tiger.

The Tiger–The tiger represents strength and determination. The tiger never fights unless it is cornered or if needed to eat for survival. When attacking, the tiger fights with a ferocity rarely matched in the animal kingdom. The student of Kenpo Freestyle fights in self defence only, but like the tiger, is able to be ferocious when the situation calls for it.

The Dragon–The dragon represents wisdom and flexibility. A mythical beast, the dragon can turn into any other creature. This means it can adapt to any circumstances. The dragon’s head is above the tiger’s on the logo, because although the tiger is strong and ferocious, the dragon combines this strength with wisdom. The student of Kenpo Freestyle is expected to become flexible and wise in time, and to use these qualities in a positive way to help others.

The Covered Fist–The covered fist means the student of Kenpo Freestyle has the ability to defend himself or herself, but chooses the path of non-violence.

The Yin/Yang–The Yin/Yang symbol means balance. You have day and night, strong and weak, hot and cold. All are necessary. This means the Kenpo Freestyle student must train hard, but get plenty of rest. You must do your best in karate, but realize that other things in life are important too, like family and school. You must build your body, but also develop your mind.

The Everlasting Flame of Knowledge–The everlasting flame symbolizes that learning is a life-long process and that we can never know everything. A black belt soon realizes that there is so much more to learn in the martial arts.

Students, wear your Kenpo Freestyle logo with pride and always remember what it represents.

Sensei Matt Klein

Find out more about our Sydney kids karate classes

Filed Under: For the Martial Artist, Kenpo

Karate Belts: What do the Colours Mean?

July 9, 2010 By Sensei Matt Klein

the various coloured belts in karate

The order of belts in Kenpo is different from many other systems.

Karate Belt Colours Originated in Japan

The idea of ranking karate belts according to colour was introduced by the Japanese at the turn of the 20th century. Each belt signifies a progression in skill, but more importantly a change in attitude. Today there are many different ranks in countless systems across the world. In Kenpo Freestyle the belts progress as follows with their meanings explained. Keep in mind there are many interpretations of this.

The Meaning of Each Karate Belt Colour

White belt means absolute beginner, a clean slate, and is the colour of innocence. There is no shame in being a white belt and the instructor, most of all, realizes this because he or she was once one.

Yellow belt and Orange belt-these colours represent a new beginning as these colours are seen at sunrise. They reflect enthusiasm, passion, and energy. Yellow is also associated with hope. Orange is a darker colour, reflecting greater maturity than Yellow.

Purple belt represents springtime and creativity. It is the stage where a student is still fresh, but is becoming increasingly creative in applying techniques.

Blue belts are reaching toward the blue sky and show maturity in the middle stages on the road to black belt. The colour blue means calmness, responsibility, strength, and reliability, and blue belts typically embody these qualities. Also, in a blue belt you can see the fluidity of movements, like water.

Green belts are the last in the intermediate stages of training. Green signifies the branches and leaves growing upward and outward, reaching toward the sky. The change in colour from green to brown also portrays the change in colours to autumn as the student gains experience.

Brown is the colour of the earth and is the first advanced belt. It represents the roots of the tree planted firmly in the earth. It is a steadfast and reliable colour. At this stage the student becomes more watchful and critical, and is striving for perfection.

Black belt signifies power, both mentally and physically. It also represents mastery, calmness, and dignity. It is just the start of a path to true mastery of the art as the student climbs the ranks of black belts, 1st degree through 10th degree.

White Belt Completes Cycle

White belt completes the circle. Look at the belt of a sensei who has been a black belt for 30 years or so and it is white. It is at this stage if not before that a true sensei realizes how little he or she knows in the whole scheme of things.

Just as you cannot rush a plant through its growing stages, a martial artist must progress slowly and naturally through the belts to achieve proficiency and maturity.

Sensei Matt Klein

Find out more about our Sydney kids karate classes

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Filed Under: For the Martial Artist

Martial Arts for Kids: Ten Secrets to Getting Your Black Belt

May 28, 2010 By Sensei Matt Klein

blackbelt.jpg

You can reach black belt if you follow my secrets, work hard, and don't give up.

During the last fifteen years of teaching karate for kids I have watched many obtain their black belts. I have also sadly watched many give up. It is especially heart-breaking to see them quit when they are close to obtaining black belt level. Why do some make it and some drop out? I strongly believe if you follow the following steps, you will have what it takes to pass the ultimate test–the black belt.

1. Give the Sensei your full attention. Look and listen when he or she is talking. You will learn a lot more. If someone is talking to you while the Sensei is explaining something, ignore them.

2. Focus your energy and thoughts on what you are doing–never mind what else is happening in the class. Visualize how each move would work against an attacker.

3. Stances are the key to success in all martial arts. Perfect the horse, cat, bow, sparring, or whatever stance your style teaches and you will be on your way to black belt.

4. Realize it takes many years of training to perfect your moves. Be patient with yourself, relax, and enjoy the process of learning and mastering the art.

5. Ignore anyone who says “You are not good at Karate/Kung Fu, etc.”. It does not matter what they think. You will be excellent in the martial arts if you put forth your best efforts.

6. Do not compare yourself to others in the class. Many of us are not gifted athletes, but we can be our best with practice. Your goal is self-improvement, and this will happen with time and effort.

7. Practice all your moves outside of class at least once a week. You will be amazed at the difference this makes and the Sensei will notice.

8. Try to keep yourself fit and flexible. Build up your heart and lungs. Running, swimming, bicycling, or any other activity that gets your heart pumping are the best. Do your stretches regularly so your kicks and punches have greater reach and you have less chance of injury.

9. Be dedicated to your training. There will be times when you don’t feel like going to martial arts class due to the weather or lack of energy. Go anyway and you will be glad you did. It will build your self-disclipine and you will feel great once you get there and start doing it.

10. Do not focus too much on the belts–they are not as important as the lessons you learn on your martial arts journey.

Sensei Matt Klein

Filed Under: For the Martial Artist, Martial Arts Resources for Parents Tagged With: class, karate, karate for kids, kids karate, martial arts, martial arts for kids

Karate Kids and the Jessica Watson Story

May 15, 2010 By Sensei Matt Klein

jessica watson sets examples for kids worldwide

Jessica Watson on her boat

Jessica Watson completed her sail around the world today. Many people have circumnavigated the world solo in a sailboat—but Jessica Watson is a 16-year-old girl. This has never been done before. Whether you support her effort or not you have to admire her. We as martial artists can learn a lot from this story.

Have a go. Jessica was not afraid to embark on this journey, despite her age. She was brave enough to give it a shot. I see this all the time in our students. This is why kids learn so fast. They are not afraid to look bad—they just do it. I have seen kids who have gone into their first karate tournament and won a trophy. It happens all the time. They were not afraid to have a go at it.

Ignore the naysayers. There will always be “well wishers” who say “you shouldn’t do this or that” or “you are not ready”. Jessica ignored them and focused on the task at hand. Most successful people in the world have this important quality of ignoring those who doubt their abilities.

Believe in yourself. When others doubt you and the task seems impossible, it is hard to keep going. But if you truly believe in yourself, as Jessica did, you will come through in the end. She believed firmly in her skill as a sailor, and that is what got her through a difficult journey.

Don’t give up. Despite having a run-in with a huge freighter, a boat that overturned in 10-meter swells, freezing temperatures, broken equipment, and other hardships, Jessica did not even think of giving up. It is this quality that is most important for success. I have seen kids fail the black belt test two or three times, and then come back with a vengeance on the next grading, performing the best in their class. Never give up.

Remember those that made your success possible. From Jessica’s blog, “And of course yesterday was Mother’s Day. I couldn’t cook her breakfast in bed or make her a card like she deserves a million times over, so I’ve saved an extra hug for when I get in. What Mum did letting me go and helping me get to the start line while still looking after everyone else is in my eyes much harder than anything I’ve faced out here. Thanks Mum!”

Being in the “here and now” and enjoying the journey. From her blog “I’m having the time of my life slowly cruising up the coast, not pushing Ella’s Pink Lady too hard, and looking forward to arriving on the 15th. I’m enjoying all the highs of solo sailing and in just a few days, I’ve got seeing friends and family to look forward to”. She was clearly enjoying the journey, yet at the same time looking forward to happy times in the future. Work at your goals, but revel in your achievements and most importantly, enjoy the journey.

Karate Kids and the Jessica Watson Story is an original article from Sensei Matt Klein. For more information check our kids karate classes in Sydney.

Filed Under: For the Martial Artist

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Testimonials

Australia's Youth Self Defence Karate
mihir-joshi-kenpo-freestyle-sydneyOver the years, through Karate, I found that my confidence and self-esteem levels had sky rocketed to heights I never thought it would go. I thank Sensei Matt, and all those who have helped me in Karate, for helping me understand such values in a fun and social learning environment.
Mihir Joshi

See our Karate Success Stories Page for Mihir's story.
09/01/2014
Australia's Youth Self Defence Karate
mihir-joshi-kenpo-freestyle-sydneyOver the years, through Karate, I found that my confidence and self-esteem levels had sky rocketed to heights I never thought it would go. I thank Sensei Matt, and all those who have helped me in Karate, for helping me understand such values in a fun and social learning environment.
Mihir Joshi

See our Karate Success Stories Page for Mihir's story.
09/01/2014
Australia's Youth Self Defence Karate
Friendly yet disciplined approach towards karate at Australia’s Youth has helped enormously. It enabled Mihir to build a sense of belonging and improved his motivation to excel. It’s amazing how learning the Martial Arts helps build confidence and improve overall personality.
Yogendra Joshi, father of Mihir JoshiImage
09/01/2014
Australia's Youth Self Defence Karate
I like Karate because it is really fun and I love going on the weekend to see all my friends and Senseis. Karate makes me feel safe because I don’t worry about bullies at school because I know they can’t really hurt me.Tyvian-Macfarlne-Kenpo-Freestyle-Sydney
Tyvian Macfarlane

See our Karate Success Stories Page for Tyvian's story.
09/08/2014
Australia's Youth Self Defence Karate
The confidence karate has given Tyvian is amazing. He is takes pride in himself and he has matured. The focus, confidence and discipline he has gained through karate has transferred to other areas of his life such as educational tasks, looking after younger children both in and out of his family and demonstrating empathy for others.Robert-Macfarlane
Robert Macfarlane, father of Tyvian Macfarlane
09/08/2014
Australia's Youth Self Defence Karate
I owe my confidence, strength, fitness and leadership skills to Karate. It has taught me to persist with everything and that the only way to improve is to try harder.Adam-Loader-Kenpo-Freestyle-Sydney
Adam Loader

See our Karate Success Stories Page for Adam's story.
09/01/2014
Australia's Youth Self Defence Karate
Look at what you have achieved Matt, we can’t thank you enough for your contribution to shaping these two young men. We are often complimented about the maturity of the boys and we know their Karate has played an important part in developing that maturity. Brings a tear to my eye!
loadersRobert Loader, father of Adam and Jacob Loader
09/01/2014

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