About four years ago Carl recommended we start using the Bogu during our kumite (sparring practice). This method was developed in Okinawa and then found its way into mainland Japan and eventually to the U.S. where only a few clubs still do this. And even in those clubs, only a few members do it. I know there is other equipment out there that looks similar and I have used most of what’s available. But it does not provide you with nearly the same overall effect that the bogu does. Rules in bogu training – Any punch, any kick, save foot stomps, a strike to the spine and to the back of the neck. Throws and leg kicking is certainly allowed. Use, dare I say, your commonsense.

What is the training like?

When you fight, you just go and beat the crap out of each other. This is the point. Sure, you look to get that “One Shot One Kill” but you have to train in a way that prepares you for reality. If you train to stop after that first shot- you are developing a habit that will come back to haunt you. You always train three techniques ahead.

Immediately, you will find out what works and what doesn’t work. Depending on the drill, sometimes we do rounds, sometimes 10 second bursts. There’s a little stalking- but when you go, it’s like two freight trains smashing into one another. You hit, you get hit, you lock up, you knee and you throw- great stuff. One of the first things you will notice is that when you punch or kick the hard surfaces of the bogu- it hurts. A body will feel like a feather bed compared to a bogu. But, after a while- it doesn’t hurt. Then you can start really throwing some lead!

You will also see what strikes have an effect and which ones do not. If you can back a guy up with the bogu on or ring his bell a bit- chances are it’s a good shot. If you graze him, he keeps coming and you have to keep fighting.

The bogu also teaches you to keep fighting! Lesser equipment will cause you to slow down and stop when things get critical. Or stop when one person scores the point. Scoring a point does not mean the fight has ended. It’s only a symbolic representation of it. It’s not literal.

Wearing the bogu allows you to take punishment without being seriously hurt- save the fat lip, sore legs, fingers, toes or sore jaw. You will get used to the shock of being hit. This will enable you to operate in that harsh environment of combat and it will allow you to absorb as much damage as possible. I have seen people develop other things that allow you to feel nothing. This isn’t really good either. It takes away the risk factor and all you have is two supermen running into one another with out any fear of pain. Plus it takes away the body conditioning element. As always, exercise caution and work at a level you can handle. When starting with people who haven’t done it before- take it a little easy so they can get used to it. After a couple times- then you can blast ‘em.

The MEN (Head Piece) of the bogu is extremely claustrophobic. This is an excellent way of replicating the effect of tunnel vision and frustration you feel when you are the hormonal stress of combat. Don’t talk to me about something for MACHO or even Shureido- unless it’s got the grill, it ain’t cutting it.

The head piece also provides neck and chin protection that modern head-gear do not. Again, the chest protector is HARD. This is important to develop power and condition your weapons.

Can you tell who wins and who loses? Well if the guy quits you win. If you quit, you loose. But that’s not the point. IT’S THE TRAINING. It’s the befit of fighting like this that you want; the overall training effect NOT winning a game. Sure there are tournament rules, but that will force you to stop when you should be fighting!! It’s the feeling of the fight, the punishment and the impact that counts. It’s dealing with the confines of the bogu. Just the simple fact that your training partner no longer has a face and is replaced by this samurai from hell is worth the price of admission.

Is it cheap, no- but do you value good training or do you want to used that foamed dipped crap. It’s up to you. This stuff will last you a life time. If you can sucker I mean convince some people to invest- take the plunge. Go to http://www.bogubag.com/Bogu/Karate_Bogu/karate_bogu.html. Get the traditional “Do” and “Tare”, a set of grappling gloves a good cup, knee pads, the good old white, cheap shin and instep pads and a hachi maki or a bandanna. You don’t need a mouth piece- the bogu will keep you mouth shut. I don’t think Bogu bag knows I am recommending the link- but, it’s good stuff.

Copyright 2003 http://www.thetruthaboutselfdefense.com ©

Damian Ross is the owner of Zenshin and instructor of Tekkenryu jujutsu and Kodokan Judo. He started competing in the combative sport of wrestling in 1975 at the age of 7 and began his study of Asian martial arts with Moo Duk Kwan Tae Kwon Do at the age of 16 in 1984. In 1989, Shinan Cestari gave a seminar at Sensei Ross’s dojo. Sensei Ross has trained under Shinan Cestari’s direction ever since. In addition to Tekkenryu Jujutsu, Judo and Tae Kwon Do, Sensei Ross has also studied Bando. Sensei Ross continues his study of Judo under the direction of 8th degree black belt Yoshisada Yonezuka and Tekkenryu Jujutsu under it’s founder, Carl Cestari. Below are is a list of some of his title ranks Yodan (fourth degree black belt) Tekkenryu Jujutsu under Carl Cestari Shodan (First degree black belt) Kodokan Judo under Yoshisada Yonezuka Varsity Wrestling Lehigh University under Thad Turner 2nd Degree Black Belt Tae Kwon Do

”Tokio Hirano (1922-1993) 8th Dan The Man Who Revolutionized Judo” By Jim Chen, M.D . and Theodore Chen

Hirano 7th Dan At Age 42

Tokio Hirano (5’5”, 75 kg), obtained Godan (5th dan) at age 19, is perhaps the greatest Judo technician of all time. He is probably the best known Japanese Judoka in Europe. In 1952, Hirano went to teach Judo in Europe. Within six years, he had accumulated over 4,300 wins. In order to promote Judo, Hirano would fight all black belts in the city where he taught Judo. In November 1954, in Mannheim, Germany, Hirano scored all ippons (knock out) in 34 minutes against 54 black belt opponents (1-3 dan).Traditional nage-waza (throwing techniques) were taught in the following sequence: kumu (gripping), tsukuru (the entry and proper fitting of your body into position taken just before the movement required for completion of your throwing technique), kakeru (completing), and nageru (throwing).Hirano revolutionized the order to tsukuru, kumu, kakeru and nageru. This is the current European style Judo. This is a proven method to defeat bigger opponents, as demonstrated by Hirano’s stunning success. Wilhelm Ruska (Holland) 192 cm, 115 kg, was his most accomplished student. Ruska was the world heavyweight champion in 1967 and 1971 and runner up in 1969 (open weight). Wilhelm was the dual gold medalist in heavy and open weight class at the 1972 Munich Olympics. Win Against European Wrestling Champion

Hirano throwing Artz

In the spring of 1955, Hirano went to teach in Amsterdam, Holland. He was challenged by Peter Artz (four time European free style wrestling heavy weight champion). Hirano agreed to both a Judo and wrestling fight. Each match was for ten minutes. The wrestling match would be decided by pinning the back for ten seconds. The Judo match would decided by a clean throw. At the start of the wrestling match, Hirano was able to throw Artz several times, but was unable to pin him due to perspiration (they fought without a Judo gi). About six minutes into the fight, Hirano made a Kiai (yell). He jumped and grabbed Artz’s head and threw him with a koshi-guruma (Head lock or Hip wheel throw), pinned him with kesa-gatame (Scarf Hold) for ten seconds; winning the wrestling match. In the Judo match, there was no contest. Within 30 seconds Hirano threw Artz cleanly with ippon seoinage (Shoulder throw).

Fourteen Wins At Kodokan - 1941

Hirano, age 19 During Judo’s one hundred year history, the easiest way to get a rank promotion from Kodokan was to take part in the Ko-Haku Shiai (red-white team competition) which was held twice a year (Spring and Fall). By winning with 5 ippons one could receive a one dan promotion the same day. Hirano was born on August 6th, 1922 in Hyogo prefecture (near Kobe), Japan. Hirano obtained his first black belt by winning 22 ippons with osoto-gari. He graduated from Hei-an high school as 3rd dan, later he was recertified by Kodokan as 4th dan. He moved to Takushoku university in April 1941 under the recommendation of his Sensei Fukushima. During his seven months training at Takushoku University, he did nothing but newaza. Hardly did he have a chance to practice tachi-waza (throwing techniques).

Hirano Trains with Fukushima 9th dan

On October 19, 1941, Hirano participated in the Ko-haku shiai. That morning he received a bag of several persimmons, a gift from Wushijima Sensei. During the training session, Wushijima was so fierceful that everybody was afraid of him. On the other hand he was so kind and thoughtful, almost like a tender loving father. Hirano was very grateful for the teaching and kindness from Wushijima Sensei. He swore to do the best in the Ko-haku Shiai. Hirano defeated a Kodokan record 14 opponents. All of his opponents were 4th dan, and were defeated with ippon seoinage, juji gatame (arm lock), kamishiho-gatame (upper four corner pin), tai-otoshi (body drop), ouchi-gari (small inner leg reap), tsurikomi-goshi (lifting hip throw) or osoto-gari (Big outer leg reap). He fought to a draw with his 15th opponent. All Japan Collegiate Judo Championship 1941-42

On October 31, 1941 , Hirano participated in the All Japan Collegiate Judo Championship. In the fourth round he won by tsurikomi-goshi, fifth round by tai-otoshi; and sixth round by juji-gatame. His final opponent was Yasuichi Matsumoto (187 cm, 90 kg, All Japan Champion in 1948, famous for Tenri style osoto-gari) . Matsumoto attacked Hirano with osoto-gari. Hirano countered with osoto-gari and tai-otoshi. Neither scored a point when time was up. Hirano managed to throw Matsumoto immediately during the overtime with seoi-nage (both should throw) to obtain his first major title. All of the matches after the fourth round to final were decided by Ippon. Techniques used included osoto-gari, uchi-mata (inner thigh throw), tai-otoshi, seoi-nage, tsurikomi-goshi, hane-goshi (spring hip throw) and juji-gatame. It was an amazingly high quality competition. The following year, Hirano took the title again with five ippons. In the semi-finals, he had a tough fight against Okubo (182 cm,104 kg) 5th dan. Hirano managed to throw him with seoi-nage and scored a wazaari (half point). In the final match, Hirano defeated Tsunoda with osoto-gari. In 1943 Hirano met Okubo again at the Judo Championship 5th dan division, sponsored by The Department of Imperial Affairs. Like their previous match, no points were scored for the first seven minutes. During the overtime, Hirano eventually won by ippon with an ouchi-gari and seoinage combination.

Third National Athletic Judo Championship - 1947

Hirano took part in the individual championship held on November 2, 1947. Kimura , Ishikawa (champion in 1948, ‘49), Hirosei (champion in 1943) and Matsumoto decided not to compete in this meet and allow one of the rookies to win the major title. How gracious they were. Nevertheless, Yoshimatsu (champion in 1952, ‘53 and ‘55) and Daigo (champion in ‘51, ‘56) were among the contenders. In the third round Hirano won by seoi-nage. In the semi-finals he won by tai-otoshi. His final opponent was Hadori (170 cm, 95kg, famous for tsurikomi-goshi and kouchi-gari). Hadori defeated Daigo by ura-nage (back arch throw) at the semi-finals. Hadori proved to be a formidable fighter. Hadori attacked with tsurikomi-goshi, and seoi-nage while Hirano applied his osoto-gari and tai-otoshi with no result. With time running out, Hirano managed to score a wazaari with osoto-gari, thus winning the championship.

Jigoku Kego - Hell Training with Wushijima

In high school, Hirano practiced Judo six hours a day and would randori for two hours. Between 8:30pm and 11pm at Yoshikatakai Ziku, he would randori against 3-4 th dan opponents from Bushen (Academy of Martial Arts). Every night he slept around 1:00am.The following morning he awoke at 5:30am and repeated the routine again. He started with one hundred and fifty push-ups, then jogged and sprinted for 2km, and finished with 40 minutes of randori.Hard training paid off even though he was small and inexperienced as a 2nd dan. Every so often he was able to throw 3rd and 4th dan opponents from Bushen. When Hirano moved to Tokyo and trained under Wushijima Sensei (Wushijima 9th dan, two time All Japan champion) at Takushoku University, he finally realized what Jigoku Kego really was! It consisted of five minutes of warm-ups, 3-4 hours of continuous Ne Waza. This was "Hell Training!” It was considered disgraceful to surrender while being choked. As a result, a typical scene at Takushoku Dojo was 4-5 people passed out, unconscious from chokes. While Hirano was a student in Takushoku University, he went to the Metropolitan police dojo to practice. In 3 hours of continuous randori, he had accumulated approx 500 ippons on 60 black belts. Pre-WWII Judoka felt that a winning or losing was not a matter of talent but rather that of hard training. “Attack Till Your Heart Stop Beating” was Wushijima Sensei’s Motto Hirano obtained his first black belt by winning 22 ippons, at the high school team competition at the National athletic championship held on November 3, 1939. In the semifinals, Hirano and his opponent fell from the 2 meter high stage to the ground. Despite the doctor’s orders to stop, Hirano refused to forfeit. The match was fought to a draw. In the final match Hirano faced a 4th dan opponent. Again the match ended with a draw, following the match, Hirano passed out. The doctor later determined that Hirano had a dislocated left shoulder and two broken ribs. Hirano possessed this fighting spirit even before Wushijima’s hell training.Judo was not a sport to those pre WWII Judoka. It was more of a Samurai duel. In order to win the shiai, vigorous training was absolutely necessary. Five hundred push ups, randori 6 hours, plus tachi-ki-wuchikomi (repetition against a tree) was a common training regiment for success. Training was so intense enough that Hirano once dreamt of collapsing the tallest building with his osoto-gari.

Hirano trains Ruska

Ruska once asked Hirano the key to strong Judo. Hirano replied that there was no such medicine. Hirano advised Ruska to train for hand grip power whenever possible, stair climbing and hip strengthening. Ten days before the 1967 world Judo championships, Hirano practiced with Ruska. Hirano felt that Ruska’s tachi–waza was only second class (Pre WWII Japanese standard). Ruska’s newaza was fifth class. At that time Hirano was able to apply choke or osaekomi (pinning) very easily. When Ruska won the heavy weight champion title, Hirano was very happy that his student was so successful. On the other hand, he was very sad that Japanese Judo had declined to a level he could not imagine.

Judo World Loses Two Giants Kimura And Hirano In 1993

Wushijima sensei nurtured and trained two Judo great, Masahiko Kimura and Tokio Hirano. Unfortunately Kimura died on April 18, 1993.Tokio Hirano returned to Japan in 1966 after Judo touring in Europe for 15 years. He later returned to Europe to conduct annual Judo clinics. Even at the age of 60, he practiced ne-waza with 20 years old varsity students. The great legendary technician died of cancer of liver on July 26, 1993. Through his two books, thousands of students, and memory of those incredible fights, this great legend will live forever. Hirano’s trademark throw was a leaping tai-otoshi

Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.

Copyright 2003 www.thetruthaboutselfdefense.com ©

Damian Ross is the owner of Zenshin and instructor of Tekkenryu jujutsu and Kodokan Judo. He started competing in the combative sport of wrestling in 1975 at the age of 7 and began his study of Asian martial arts with Moo Duk Kwan Tae Kwon Do at the age of 16 in 1984. In 1989, Shinan Cestari gave a seminar at Sensei Ross’s dojo. Sensei Ross has trained under Shinan Cestari’s direction ever since. In addition to Tekkenryu Jujutsu, Judo and Tae Kwon Do, Sensei Ross has also studied Bando. Sensei Ross continues his study of Judo under the direction of 8th degree black belt Yoshisada Yonezuka and Tekkenryu Jujutsu under it’s founder, Carl Cestari. Below are is a list of some of his title ranks Yodan (fourth degree black belt) Tekkenryu Jujutsu under Carl Cestari Shodan (First degree black belt) Kodokan Judo under Yoshisada Yonezuka Varsity Wrestling Lehigh University under Thad Turner 2nd Degree Black Belt Tae Kwon Do http://www.thetruthaboutselfdefense.com

How practical are throwing techniques (nagewaza) for self-defense or street-fighting? NOT VERY!

The Japanese themselves have a saying, "One year for newaza (ground technique), TEN YEARS for nagewaza (Throwing technique)". It takes ten times as long to become proficient at throwing than it does at ground fighting.

Trying to throw a fully resisting, fighting adversary and pulling off a "clean" throw is VERY, VERY DIFFICULT.

People will INSTINCTIVELY grab, seize, claw and otherwise do all sorts of "spoiling" maneuvers when one attempts to execute a "throw".

In all of the fights I have seen, I can recall ONLY three instances where one guy was able to pull off a clean solid throw. And this person was practicing Judo on an almost DAILY basis.

I’ve seen throws used in other situations but quite honestly they got the person into MORE TROUBLE than it was worth.

I will cite three classic examples of what it takes to become "skilled" enough to even attempt Nagewaza in a real street fight.

1. Masahiko ‘Judo" Kimura TRAINED upwards of NINE hours a DAY! He did thousands of repetitions of Uchikomi (fitting in) to develop just a COUPLE of reliable Nagewaza (Seoi Nage (Should throw) & O Soto Gari (Big leg reap)). Reading Kimura’s biography you will note that in his street fights and "vale tudo" matches as well, when he faced skilled boxers his reliance on Nage was still an "iffy" proposition.

Make no mistake..

KIMURA WAS AN ANIMAL!

2. Famed Judo legend Yamashita (explained at his recent seminar that it took THOUSANDS of repetitions of uchikomi AND the brutal three man drills to BEGIN to develop the skill to effectively employ throwing techniques.

3. And last but certainly not least is Yonezuka who ADVOCATES the use of ASHIBARAI (foot sweep) without GRABBING as the BEST overall and SAFEST (for you) method of slamming someone on their ass.

The other thing that pisses me off is the idea that JUJUTSU throws are somehow BETTER than JUDO throws for real combat. BULLSHIT. The only REAL difference between Judo and Jujutsu nagewaza is generally the manner of seizing the opponent. HOWEVER, a judoka can do this just as EASILY. But moreover, JUDO nage are PROVEN to be effective in REAL ADVERSARIAL COMPETITIONS. Sure you can talk about the old Jujutsu styles employing joint locks and strangleholds in conjunction with throwing BUT again, JUDO methods have been evolving in a far MORE real arena.

I have NEVER seen a Jujutsuka "pull off" any NAGEWAZA against even neophyte JUDOKAS or WRESTLERS! EVER.

And in a REAL street fight some of the NONSENSE that these people banter on about concerning the "COMBAT" application of these throws will get you F%^&&G KILLED!

The nonsense they preach on about SOUNDS "cool" but will FAIL in the REAL unscripted world.

Almost ANY attempt at REALLY slamming someone will invariably find BOTH of you on the ground. Hopefully, but CERTAINLY NOT ALWAYS, with you on top, then the fight goes ON. Against more than ONE opponent you HAVE BIG PROBLEMS!

Also consider the TACTICAL problems with KNOWINGLY turning your BACK into an ENEMY! And ANY one-legged type throw, i.e., Hane-goshi (Hip spring throw)/Harai-goshi (Loin throw)/O guruma (Big Outer Wheel) /Uchimata (Inner Thigh Throw) will INSURE that you BOTH hit the DECK.

The BEST methods I have seen and practiced for actually USING throwing techniques in self-protection came from Bruce Tegner. His concept of seizing the upper arms or shoulders with both hands and then GOING TO WORK on the opponents legs with a BARRAGE of LOW HARD KICKS and THEN executing a throw is the ONLY approach that seems to have validity and is viable. AND that approach is what REAL kuzushi is all about.

Another topic loaded with BULLSHIT. KUZUSHI is NOT a subtle maneuvering to "break balance" in THE REAL WORLD nor is it evident in almost ANY real Randori or Shiai. MORE esoteric fantasy crap. If I want to "break your balance" I’ll do it by KNOCKING THE S$%T out of you!

Lastly, DON’T believe the BULLSHIT about Judo throws "being SAFE" for the opponent. HORSES#$T! With SUFFICIENT practice you can "land" a guy on his HEAD, NECK or shoulder.

What makes Judo throws SEEM safe is the practice of UKEMI, the use of TATAMI and the LACK of intent in F!@#$%G up your training partner.

Check out Koizumi’s book on throws. He explains very well how a Dojo "safe" throw can be executed on the STREET with devastating results by a simple change in the direction of the "pull" done by the hands and wrists.

Instead of "heaving" your man over and directing him INTO a breakfall, you JUST pull STRAIGHT down and DRIVE him head first into the ground.

The DOERS KNOW the difference between real and chickenshit. The pontificators present ONLY a "shell" that has NO REAL SUBSTANCE, just "warrior fantasy appeal".

They are blinded by their own BULLS@#T.

PS: CJ1 “Throws Grips and Dirty Tricks” cover the set up, throwing techniques and drills - http://www.combatjujutsusecrets.com

Copyright 2003 www.thetruthaboutselfdefense.com ©

Carl Cestari began his study of the martial arts with judo at the age of 7 under the direction of Yoshisada Yonezuka. During the past forty plus years Carl has dedicated his life to studying the martial arts, hand to hand combat systems, history and religion. What makes Carl unique is his combination of martial arts, law enforcement and military and real world experience. Carl has been exposed to a multitude of people with a wide variety experience. The following is a list of some of Carl’s ranks and honors.

Shinan (Founder) Tekkenryu jujutsu
Ryokudan (6th degree) Koshinkai Karate under John Burrelle
Godan (5th degree) Jujutsu under Clarke of the World Jujutsu Fedaration (now defunct)
Sandan (3rd degree) Nippon Kempo under Narabu Sada
Nidan (2nd degree) Judo under Masafumi Suzuki
Shodan (1st degree) Judo under Yoshisada Yonezuka
Shodan (1st degree) Shukokai Karate under Kimura, Kadachi and Yonezuka
Shodan (1st degree) Daitoryu Aikijujutsu
Instructors Certificate- Charles Nelson System of Self Defense under Charlie Nelson
http://www.thetruthaboutselfdefense.com

Shigeru Kimura Sensei 9th Dan Tani-Ha Shitoryu Shukokai had a punch that was like getting hit with a cannonball.

Kimura Sensei had won the All Japan Karate Championship two years in a row. His technique was lightening fast, crisp, and decisive. There was a problem however. Tani Sensei, top student of Mabuni Kenwa and founder of Tani-Ha Shukokai was a firm believer in the age old concept of IKKEN HISSATSU or "One Fist - Certain Death". Kimura Sensei was unsure that the technique he possessed was capable of that in a SHINKEN SHOBU or REAL life and death battle.

He and others of the Shukokai began experimenting with Bogu(Bogu is body armor, similar to Kendo, but modified for Karate). Kimura was dismayed that his punches and kicks lacked TRUE stopping power when applied full force against real resistance. Now Tani Sensei WAS an innovator and had "changed" traditional Shitoryu Karate waza to impart MORE force, speed and power. Tani was the FIRST person to coin the term "double hip" in reference to the torqueing movement used to create greater ballistic force.

Kimura Sensei went FURTHER. He developed other concepts based on modern sports science, training techniques and drills. This continued until his untimely death at age 58.

When Kimura Sensei first arrived in the US and began teaching at Yonezuka Sensei’s Dojo circa 1970 he was interviewed by a well known local sportswriter. This gentleman commented in print that Kimura had a punch as HARD if NOT HARDER than any of many PRO-FIGHTERS including HEAVYWEIGHTS that this sportswriter had known throughout the years. HIGH PRAISE INDEED, considering most martial artists would assume that boxers possess the HARDEST blows of any of the combative methods!

The STAPLE of Kimura’s Shukokai training was the use of the "punching" block, now known as the "impact" pad.

The original ones we used were simply polyfoam squares cut 14" X 14" stacked 8 to 10 inches thick and wrapped with a Gi belt. Three techniques were drilled CONSTANTLY for HOURS AND HOURS on end. They were the "gyakuzuki" or reverse punch, "maegeri" or front kick, and "mawashigeri" or roundhouse kick. Utilizing the principles of the "double hip twist", "muscular recoil", "the whiplash", "total body lock", and other concepts rooted in modern sports the dynamic speed and tremendous power one could develop made such training far MORE worthwhile than the usual "monkey" drills found in most other Dojos.

The use of punching blocks developed BOTH the hitter’s ability to deliver massive shock AND the "hittee’s" ability to RECIEVE massive shock. The punching blocks WORK. Since the blocks allow you to really work on penetrating INTO the target you can develop the ability to get excellent "feedback" on just HOW effectively you are striking.

JUST ONE PROBLEM! You NEED a training partner. Your training partner is the one who HOLDS the block and GIVES you VISUAL feedback on the effectiveness of your blows. In time and with proper skill development another "problem" arises. You will, when everything works right, be able to hit SO powerfully that after two or three "gut" blasters your partner will have NO interest in continuing. On a really "good" day you can even do it with ONE shot. One large and powerful individual (about 220lbs.) known for his body toughening and conditioning and a black belt in a system KNOWN for it’s conditioning drills, who trained with us LASTED for only THREE punches. On the third reverse punch he dropped the bag and almost tossed his "cookies". He admitted that without the pad the FIRST punch could have "killed" him. Another large and powerful bodybuilder took ONE punch (through TEN inches of dense foam) and turned WHITE, lost his ability to breath and speak and dropped to his knees. When he recovered several minutes later he said he felt as if an electrical shock had "shut down" his HEART! He admitted that for a second he really thought he was going to die. The "puncher" in both these instances was about 150lbs.

So here’s my solution to training without a "partner":

Any of you "old timers" remember Frank Smith? During the 1960’s Frank Smith WAS the "powerhouse" of American Shotokan Karate. He was a TANK and executed the powerful direct style of Shotokan perfectly. His trademark was the REVERSE PUNCH! He developed his technique on a specially constructed "makiwara". This is what WE will use for our BASE. Here’s how we start - One block of wood 6" x 6" x 6" lagged to the floor or wall (stud or concrete) another block attached at the angle of the wall and ceiling. Four eye-hooks, each attached on the SIDES of the blocks. One inch pine board that runs from floor block to ceiling block about 8 feet long and 8 inches wide. TWO bungee cords. One goes from eye-hook to eye-hook on the BOTTOM block securing that end of the board, and one doing the same on the top block.

There is YOUR BASE "makiwara". NOW as your punching improves you can KEEP ADDING BOARDS! And replacing the ones you shatter! NOW here’s OUR addition! Get TWO more bungee cords. Get an IMPACT PAD from KAM Industries in NJ. Secure the pad at solar plexus/chest height with the bungees.

There you GO! You can use the Impact Pad and see and feel the developing speed and power WITHOUT a training partner. As your technique develops and gets STRONGER you ADD boards! Overload training for your PUNCH! The only HARD part here is "developing" the RIGHT and proper technique. Kimura Sensei always said that YOU DO NOT "train" or "practice" Karate as much as you STUDY IT. Think about that. Every repetition of EVERY technique is a COMPLETE STUDY of body mechanics, speed, power dynamics, balance and EFFECTIVENESS unto itself.

EACH technique should always TEACH YOU SOMETHING! Kimura Sensei went on to totally re-vamp his "style". This is when Kimura-Ha Shukokai really came into its own. He developed a system based on what he termed "Left Gear". Though I have trained in this method, I am NOT of the "new" school. My Shukokai technique is based on study with the four Sensei primarily: Kimura, Yonezuka, Kidachi and Ishihara. I have trained with Nanbu but this was very limited.

As a point of fact - The LAST black belts promoted at the Cranford JKC by KIMURA SENSEI, KIDACHI SENSEI and YONEZUKA SENSEI in TANI-HA SHITORYU SHUKOKAI were the following: Mr. Anthony LaForte, Mr. Daniel Chin and myself. The black belt certificates issued were from the Hombu Dojo in Japan, signed directly by Chojiro Tani and under the direct auspices of the World Shukokai Karatedo Union. Last comment: Training on a "traditional" makiwara is excellent for developing hand and wrist strength as well as for toughening the fist and hand. The "makiwara" as described above is the BEST way for developing the IKKEN HISSATSU or better yet the "ICHIGEKI-HISSATSU"(one ATTACK - certain death) concept.

The old methods (Okinawan styles) made heavy use of hanging sand bags (probably the Chinese influence) and the makiwara. REAL makiwara training develops some great attributes. The true Okinawan experts use weights suspended from string 8 to 10 inches behind the board and same distance to the wall.

When they strike with "chinkuchi" or "kime" similar to "fa-jing" the energy transfer to the weight THRU the makiwara is EVIDENT. This is responsible for developing the REAL "tsuki" were energy is dumped INTO the target NOT just AT IT. The true "Ryukyu-Ken" or Okinawan fist (also known as Daikento) is misunderstood. The proper alignment is 70-40 or 80-30 on the INDEX KNUCKLE (EXPLAINS TO A CERTAIN EXTENT THE MOTOBU-KEN). You can only REALLY train this on a makiwara.

I have several different "types" of makiwara. Some imported from Okinawa. Each has a different "feel". My MAIN one is constructed with thick rough hemp AND topped off with a leather makiwara cover from Shureido. Why? I use the hemp wrap for KNUCKLES and EDGE of HAND. I use the LEATHER pad for "Ipponken" phoenix eye or one knuckle, "Oyayubiken" or thumb knuckle and similar single point weapons.

The base for this one was CUSTOM made at a welding shop. One of the "pai" of Gungfu Wusu that I studied was an offshoot of what could best be described as a combination of bakmei, five-ancestor fist and phoenix-eye. SO…………….Yep, you guessed it! Big reliance on the INDEX KNUCKLE strike. Conditioning of this weapon for this style was SAND BAG training (AND one knuckle pushups on cinder blocks). This was in essence a heavy bag filled with sand. Pretty brutal to start with, BUT this is what I thought was really GOOD about this as opposed to a "regular" heavy bag:

You could drive into the same spot with CONCENTRATED force over and over. Little if ANY sway or movement and NO worry about spinning canting or whatever that would make you slip off the canvas and rip or scrape something open!

I am ASSUMING we are talking about BAREHANDED striking, NO gloves. When REAL Korean Karate (MooDukKwan) expert Ki Chung Kim was teaching at Yone’s Dojo, the heavy bag that was used was ALSO filled with sand! I questioned Mr. Kim on this one day and he gave about the same answers as I posted above.

Sand filled heavy bags develop the drive, penetration and energy dump or "sinking" energy VERY VERY WELL. For my money, I hit EVERYTHING. Each will develop a different and important attribute.

Copyright 2003 www.thetruthaboutselfdefense.com ©

Carl Cestari began his study of the martial arts with judo at the age of 7 under the direction of Yoshisada Yonezuka. During the past forty plus years Carl has dedicated his life to studying the martial arts, hand to hand combat systems, history and religion. What makes Carl unique is his combination of martial arts, law enforcement and military and real world experience. Carl has been exposed to a multitude of people with a wide variety experience. The following is a list of some of Carl’s ranks and honors.

Shinan (Founder) Tekkenryu jujutsu Ryokudan (6th degree) Koshinkai Karate under John Burrelle Godan (5th degree) Jujutsu under Clarke of the World Jujutsu Fedaration (now defunct) Sandan (3rd degree) Nippon Kempo under Narabu Sada Nidan (2nd degree) Judo under Masafumi Suzuki Shodan (1st degree) Judo under Yoshisada Yonezuka Shodan (1st degree) Shukokai Karate under Kimura, Kadachi and Yonezuka Shodan (1st degree) Daitoryu Aikijujutsu Instructors Certificate- Charles Nelson System of Self Defense under Charlie Nelson http://www.thetruthaboutselfdefense.com

The ninja were a military order in Japan. Most people have seen them in movies and fictional books.

They are the guys dressed in the black suits that seem to have amazing powers, such as climbing the outside of buildings with no rope, or seeming to disappear instantly.

Behind ninjutsu you will sometimes see reference to ‘hidden powers’ or ninja magic. Learning what this is exactly is part of the journey of the ninja master. All of us have the ability to tap into a greater force than we usually display. With training you can master this.

But behind all that mystery is the true story of the ninja master, who has very definite training. The actual martial art has a name, which is ninjutsu. Jutsu is a Japanese word for way.

There is also another Japanese word for way, which is do(pronounced doh)

So you have karate-do, which means the way of the empty hand.

Ninja Training in the US

There are various training schools in the US but before you start I suggest you read up on it. A great resource I have found is by Ninja Fanatic, John Lee.

Cover the ground in his book - Ninja Secrets Revealed - and then you will be more prepared to take your training further.

All such training starts from a desire, which gradually develops into mastery.

Today could be the start of your journey to mastering the ninja art and all its secrets.

Good Luck.

Or as they say in Japanese: "Gunbatte Kudasai"

Graeme Sprigge is a tae-kwon-do exponent with the rank of blue belt and brown tip. One of his hobbies is martial arts. He is currently studying Taijiquan (tai chi), using reference material from Master Wang Peisheng one of the Beijing Masters More Ninja Info Here

Copyright 2005 Graeme Sprigge

“Combatives” from the root word COMBAT – “to fight in direct contact”, “active fighting between enemies”, “any fight or struggle”.

Well, let’s see………………..There is ONE singular glaring absence in the above definition. Notice it? Absolutely NO mention of Fairbairn, Applegate, or Coach Hanley. No mention of Jiu-Jitsu, Boxing, Savate or any member of the Gracie family. No mention of World War Two, the Punic Wars or the Spartans. No mention of Juji-Gatame, a smashing overhand right, an edge of hand blow, or even a good old kick in the butt!

Get it? THERE ARE NO SPECIFICS that define what is or isn’t so-called “COMBATIVES”! So why do so many people feel such an overriding need to “define” combatives into a narrow scope of limited methodology? “I know what you do”…………………..”That Fairbairn stuff”. A month ago this same guy thought FAIRBAIRN was simply a decent suntan. “Yea, I base my combatives on Applegate”……………..six months ago this dude thought Applegate was the entrance to an orchard! Everybody’s an “expert”. At what exactly? I’m not sure even “they” really know.

I won’t presume to speak for ANYONE else that uses this term “combatives”. Actually I wouldn’t want to! All I can do is offer a CORRECT semantic observation and proffer my view on what encompasses my study, training and understanding of so-called “combatives”.

If you really do your research and homework you will see that even in manuals describing man to man combat that are CENTURIES old there exists a very COMPREHENSIVE survey and presentations of MANY forms of armed and unarmed combat. ALL in the same manuals! A vast array of weapon skills are shown and even the “unarmed” combat is a diverse mix of “techniques”. Before the use of London Prize Ring rules and the Marquis of Queensbury, “pugilists” used and relied on a great number of different grappling/striking/kicking and gouging methods. Ancient Greek Pankration was a combined system of “ALL POWERS” combat. The original Koryu Bujutsu of the Samurai included a comprehensive catalog of both armed and unarmed skills. The unarmed combatives of the Japanese Bushi also DIDN’T limit scope or method. Grappling was stressed when THAT was the best method of gaining tactical superiority. Striking, kicking and even BITING was resorted to when THAT was deemed the most appropriate method. The Chinese have ALWAYS maintained fully robust systems of combat that included all manner of striking, punching, kicking, throwing, strangling and joint-locking. Original Okinawan Te (Ti) included percussion methods as well as “tegumi” and “tuite”. Punch his lungs out if that did the job best. Kick his gonads out the top of his head if THAT worked best. Or grapple him into submission and control OR grapple him into a spine lock and neck break. Whatever was called for and whatever GOT THE JOB AT HAND DONE!

The 19th century saw many methods of “combined” self-defense systems develop in the West. The French combined elements of Chausson/Savate (Basque Zipota as well) with Boxe Anglaise, Parisian Lutte, and even the “new” Japanese Jiu-Jitsu. The British did the same. The “BARTITSU” of Barton-Wright is a classic example. In the US a number of “self-protection” methods became available to the public that combined methods from Boxing and Wrestling. EVEN before any “organized” systems were presented, men who “fought” even for “sport” used virtually ANY device to insure victory. Just read Elliot J. Gorn.

The Twentieth century saw even MORE “mixed” combat systems. It CERTAINLY didn’t take a Sherlock Holmes to figure out that in a REAL fight ANYTHING goes. Any and ALL manner of grappling, throttling, kicking, kneeing, butting, biting, punching, gouging, stomping and whatever other methods of mayhem could be employed were ALL “FAIR” when “fair” meant the difference between life or death. And it CERTAINLY didn’t just end at “unarmed” fighting! A “Gentleman” beset upon by a rough and tumble “footpad” on a lonely and desolate backstreet would feel perfectly JUSTIFIED in running said “footpad” thru and thru again with his sword cane or bashing his brains in with a “lifesaver”. Even when the highwayman wasn’t even armed with a lowly brickbat. What’s that old saying? All’s fair in love and war. Often it’s not a matter of who’s “right”, but simply who’s LEFT!

This IS “combatives” pure and simple. Whatever WORKS BEST at the time! A sort of “mixture” of varied fighting skills. HEY………………..wait a minute! A “mixed” fighting system? What a NOVEL IDEA!

Our next installment will look at “combatives” from the Russo-Japanese war and World War One thru to our “brandy new” millennium and all our new age “innovations”. Should be fun!

©2005 www.thetruthaboutselfdefense.com

Carl Cestari began his study of the martial arts with judo at the age of 7 under the direction of Yoshisada Yonezuka. During the past forty plus years Carl has dedicated his life to studying the martial arts, hand to hand combat systems, history and religion. What makes Carl unique is his combination of martial arts, law enforcement and military and real world experience. Carl has been exposed to a multitude of people with a wide variety experience. The following is a list of some of Carl’s ranks and honors.

Shinan (Founder) Tekkenryu jujutsu Ryokudan (6th degree) Koshinkai Karate under John Burrelle Godan (5th degree) Jujutsu under Clarke of the World Jujutsu Fedaration (now defunct) Sandan (3rd degree) Nippon Kempo under Narabu Sada Nidan (2nd degree) Judo under Masafumi Suzuki Shodan (1st degree) Judo under Yoshisada Yonezuka Shodan (1st degree) Shukokai Karate under Kimura, Kadachi and Yonezuka Shodan (1st degree) Daitoryu Aikijujutsu Instructors Certificate- Charles Nelson System of Self Defense under Charlie Nelson http://www.thetruthaboutselfdefense.com

If you ain’t pissing anyone off, you’re not doing anything worth while. Like religion and politics, martial arts are not for a lack of its zealots. Decide right now, you can either A. Continue to “sip the kool-aide” or B. Look to improve. One criticism about our training material is that it is simple and would work against some one who is untrained. What the hell does this mean, exactly? Does this pertain to the woman who takes muay thai or the serial rapist sociopath that has successfully applied his trade a dozen times? Does it apply to the mixed martial artists or a bag man on a pick up? Who do you want to fight for your life against, the martial artist or emotionally disturbed person (EPD) who gargles with pepper spray?

Personally, if I had my choice, I’d take my chances with the guy who thinks he has all the answers and not the guy who has nothing to loose. Is our stuff simple, you bet your ass it’s simple. It has to be. Anything that works is simple and straight forward. (Remember that thing; what’s it called…the WHEEL). Here’s a pop quiz, what’s the most widely used technique with the highest degree of success and knock out rate? (Drum roll please…..) The Over Hand Right! But that’s so simple, everybody knows that. You learn that your first day of boxing. Since it’s so simple and everybody knows it; why does it work? Because some one decided to seize the opportunity to throw it and it hit its mark. That’s the essence of a fight, timing, opportunity and luck. The techniques can’t be complicated. As we mentioned countless times before, anything can be blocked if you know it’s coming. But you will be approached in a way or by a person who is banking on the fact that you won’t do anything. So anything you do has a chance. So you’re trained, great.

God bless you and congratulations. Now I heard Jon Bluming say something that I thought was right on the money. If you don’t know who Jon Bluming is, get your google working. He said that grappling and submissions are treated as “support systems” and he continued to say that you will spend more time training your support systems rather that your primary self defense. That doesn’t mean don’t train in these systems, because you will fall back on these if you, well- miss. Which happens more than you think; but you want a front line of defense.

This is where we come in:
Is it simple: YES.
Basic: YES.
Let me ask you:

Would you rather practice knocking some one out or dragging them to the ground? Would you rather practice for a 5 – 10 second blast or a five minute round?

Do you know when your next competition is? It could be in the parking lot tonight after work. Are you warmed up? Do you have your training equipment on? Is the ref there?

Now make no mistake, I am not advocating NOT practice other endeavors, I think they’re great. Competition and training are excellent character builders and will prove there own worth in the grand scheme of things. But if you’re serious about realistic, explosive self defense, here’s the check list:

1.Arm your self to the teeth. Guns, knives, Sherman tank.
2. Pepper spray, Stun guns
3. Black jacks, sap gloves, spring kosh, asp
4. The environment: bricks, rocks, garbage cans
5. Hands, feet, teeth simple straight forward basic technique. Strikes, gouges.
6. Grappling, submissions.

Bonus: the better shape you’re in, the better all of this stuff works (yes, even shooting). The sharper you are, the better you will operate under stress.

So will this stuff “work” against someone who is trained- you bet, it has and it does. It’s always good to have a back up plan, but first things first.

Musashi said, it’s regrettable to die with your sword still in its sheath. Personally, I get looks from other martial artists when the catch a glimpse of what I carry. They look at me like “why do you need that stuff”. My reply is, I’d rather have and not need it than need it and not have it. It also gives me a glimpse of how naïve they are. Are you really going to depend on that when some street skel looks to put a hurt on you? If I can, I’ll work my way down from number 1 to number 6. Hey, don’t get me wrong, some days you start at 5.

The 3 to 5 year martial artist.

This is the person I get the greatest reaction from. They are very in to their training, which is great. But they believe they are in to end all, be all system. After they read the page at www.thetruthaboutselfdefense.com they feel compelled to write me and tell me how wrong I am (with out viewing the videos). First off, if you feel the need to write some guy on the internet to really show me something- get a life. The irony is, if they stay with there training, eventually they come back. Why? The men and women who have been in the martial arts for more than a decade realize the value of the material and just want to add it to there bag of tricks. These people have been to the show and realize that in a real fight, its what ever it takes. That doesn’t mean the a fifth degree black belt in tae kwon do is going to hand his dobok up and put on some combat boots (well, not permanently). What it does meant that this person can look into there own training and pull out what’s effective. Two, realize that they don’t have all the answers and they want to just get better. And three, they realize that there is a lot more to martial arts than just fighting. Here’s a secret learning how to fight is the easy part.

Carl and I are constantly receiving instruction. We are not “making this stuff up”. We learn this from real people who actually had to do this FOR REAL.

Making stuff up seems to be a trend. Some “expert” invents something and is going to tell you what’s the best and the ultimate because it has an Acronym attached to it with a cute name.

©2005 http://www.thetruthaboutselfdefense.com

Damian Ross is the owner of Zenshin and instructor of Tekkenryu jujutsu and Kodokan Judo. He started competing in the combative sport of wrestling in 1975 at the age of 7 and began his study of Asian martial arts with Moo Duk Kwan Tae Kwon Do at the age of 16 in 1984. In 1989, Shinan Cestari gave a seminar at Sensei Ross’s dojo. Sensei Ross has trained under Shinan Cestari’s direction ever since. In addition to Tekkenryu Jujutsu, Judo and Tae Kwon Do, Sensei Ross has also studied Bando. Sensei Ross continues his study of Judo under the direction of 8th degree black belt Yoshisada Yonezuka and Tekkenryu Jujutsu under it’s founder, Carl Cestari.

Below are is a list of some of his title ranks:

Yodan (fourth degree black belt) Tekkenryu Jujutsu under Carl Cestari
Shodan (First degree black belt) Kodokan Judo under Yoshisada Yonezuka
Varsity Wrestling Lehigh University under Thad Turner
2nd Degree Black Belt Tae Kwon Do
http://www.thetruthaboutselfdefense.com

The advent of World War One (the war to END all wars) brought warfare into a new and foreboding era of man to man killing and slaughter. Air power, mechanized warfare, chemical warfare and the general widespread use of machine guns changed the face of battle almost completely. However the solitary fact remained that in the end it was STILL man against man in a desperate, brutal and deadly struggle for survival. The static and stagnant lines created by entrenched warfare demanded new and innovative tactics and strategies. Among these was the advent of “raiding” parties. Small groups of lightly armed men who ventured out into “no man’s land” for the purpose of recon, probing, intelligence, prisoner grabs, and psychological “demoralization” missions. The nature of fighting under these conditions became popularized as “trench warfare”. This was close-in knife to belly hand to hand combat. All manner of expedient, purpose designed and improvised close-combat weaponry was employed. While technological advances were being made in all other forms of warfare, this particularly nasty and vicious man to man fighting reverted to the most barbaric, primitive and bloody “methods” imaginable. Just as it has been since Cain slew Abel and how it WILL be until the last two humans clench fists or seize stones in raging anger during the final melee of the Apocalypse.

Fostered by this, most military forces researched, developed and implemented fairly comprehensive and rigorous training methods specific to close-combat and “trench fighting”. The bayonet, the knife(especially the trench knife), and hand to hand combat became prime training doctrines along with advancements in general physical conditioning and battle preparation. The unarmed hand to hand methods were drawn from any and ALL sources of man to man combat. Boxing, wrestling, Savate, jiujitsu, and any number of “rough and tumble” gouge and kick back alley tactics were employed. Those charged with the task of developing such training programs were well AWARE of the fact that NO ONE SINGLE “approach” to combat was SUFFICIENT in REAL man to man kill or be killed battle!

Punching, kicking, striking, butting, stomping, biting, gouging, throwing, tripping, choking, strangling, bone breaking and the use of ANY and ALL weapons of close combat expediency were STRESSED! The foregoing should satisfy and fulfill anyone’s “definition” of MIXED martial tactics and techniques (even if Muay Thai or more accurately Siamese boxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu were not included). And to be fair, I do have English language books circa the late 1920’s – early 1930’s that detail Siamese boxing quite well. As an aside, one manual details the “favorite” attacks of Siamese style boxers as being directed at the liver with brutal kicks and at the throat while grasping the hair with one hand and smashing the throat with the other fist (gloves were NOT worn at this time). The liver attack was lethal in many cases because of the widespread epidemic of malaria which left the spleen swollen and distended even if you survived and made it a deadly focal point of attack. DEATHS occurred DAILY in these matches and were considered just a routine hazard of the “trade”.

The years after WWI saw an increase in self-protection “systems” designed for and “marketed” to the average citizen. Law Enforcement organizations also began to pay more heed to this area of training. This was just part of a movement to increase the professionalism of law enforcement personnel in general. Virtually ALL of these “systems” advocated an all-around well-balanced approach to personal combat. Elements of boxing, wrestling, foot-fighting and jiu-jitsu as a “mixed” toolbox of personal defense tactics became quite popular. Even methods that relied primarily on western boxing and wrestling maneuvers acknowledged that a well rounded combatant MUST be able to BOTH strike effectively as well as grapple. Other methods that touted “jiu-jitsu” as a singular answer to personal attack and defense were advocating a “jiu-jitsu” THAT was quite comprehensive in it’s syllabus of blows, strikes, kicks and grappling methods. It would be VERY good to remember here, that for all the “talk” about W.E. Fairbairn, during this period the Shanghai Municipal Police academy trained their recruits in BOXING – WRESTLING and JIU-JITSU! OR as one veteran of the SMP put it…………………….”our training in this area was a MIXED BAG of physical skills”!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

There was virtually NO “authority” or “expert” in this field who DID NOT advocate a “MIX” of striking/kicking and grappling either as a combined “method” or as found singularly as in “real” Japanese jiu-jitsu. When it was “for all the marbles” NO ONE would be as short-sighted as to negate ANY and ALL possible methods of attack and defense. As far an “aliveness” training goes, jiu-jitsu (NOT Kodokan Judo) “free practice” of this period allowed virtually ANYTHING. Including atemi to almost ALL kyusho points, including the testicles, base of skull etc. The ONLY “advisement” proffered was NOT to hit so HARD as to KILL your training partner, SAVE that for “matches” against OTHER jiu-jitsu schools!

ONLY in the arena of sporting combat did this division of method, pitting one against another, become a somewhat popular past time. Matching wrestlers against boxers, either of the two against jiu-jitsu men, or Savate fighters against boxers (Biddle fought in such a match while in Paris) was done under a constantly varying set of rules so that it became virtually impossible to ever really determine what “method” was superior, and even then, as some sportswriters of the time pointed out, what did ANY of this have to do with REAL fighting when NO rules applied. Even Jigoro Kano’s nephew got involved in promoting these types of matches between western boxers and native Japanese Judoka. They were called “JU (as in Judo/Jujutsu) – KEN/KENTO (as in fist or fist-fighting)”. Even Choki Motobu when asked if his Kempo-Karate was “superior” to boxing (after his KO of a western style pugilist) said that in order for his “method” to be used against a boxer specialized training specific for that type of match would have to be undertaken. Judoka interested in these JU-KENTO bouts sought out SPECIFIC instruction in just HOW to make Judo work against boxing. An entire book on this subject was published in Japan in the early 30’s. It is of the UTMOST importance to remember that ALL of these bouts had strict rules and regulations of engagement! Few if any of these mandates would have had much bearing on what one could do in a real pier-six back alley brawl. As an example: Judoka were almost ALWAYS forbidden to use any methods of ATEMIWAZA (striking, punching, kicking, butting and smashing). However, Judo “experts” of the time have advocated often and in their writings that ATEMI would be the MOST preferable method of attack and defense in a serious engagement.

The bottom line here is simply this: for use in a REAL violent assault NO ONE, but an utter FOOL, would suggest an attitude or method approaching anything LESS than that of an ALL-IN “anything goes” doctrine. In regards to “sporting combats” NOTHING was ever, or could ever be, conclusively proven to be superior to anything else. At one time or another ANY of these various “methods” had BOTH big and impressive WINS and equally impressive FAILURES.

Next installment we’ll look at the World War Two era and define the true meaning of the term “combatives”………………

©2005 www.thetruthaboutselfdefense.com

Carl Cestari began his study of the martial arts with judo at the age of 7 under the direction of Yoshisada Yonezuka. During the past forty plus years Carl has dedicated his life to studying the martial arts, hand to hand combat systems, history and religion. What makes Carl unique is his combination of martial arts, law enforcement and military and real world experience. Carl has been exposed to a multitude of people with a wide variety experience. The following is a list of some of Carl’s ranks and honors.

Shinan (Founder) Tekkenryu jujutsu Ryokudan (6th degree) Koshinkai Karate under John Burrelle Godan (5th degree) Jujutsu under Clarke of the World Jujutsu Fedaration (now defunct) Sandan (3rd degree) Nippon Kempo under Narabu Sada Nidan (2nd degree) Judo under Masafumi Suzuki Shodan (1st degree) Judo under Yoshisada Yonezuka Shodan (1st degree) Shukokai Karate under Kimura, Kadachi and Yonezuka Shodan (1st degree) Daitoryu Aikijujutsu Instructors Certificate- Charles Nelson System of Self Defense under Charlie Nelson http://www.thetruthaboutselfdefense.com

This is our last installment on “defining” the parameters of COMBATIVES.

The point, I am sure, will be missed by some but it must be emphasized that this material is historical fact and is accurate in substance and detail. It is an objective view of combatives and NOT a subjective opinion or personal “definition” designed to fill an agenda of one sort or another.

The Battle of Britain began in early July 1940. England was isolated, cut off and alone. The miracle retreat from Dunkirk and the German “Blitzkrieg” across Europe, including the crushing tactical defeat of the famed French “Maginot Line” proved the Third Reich war machine to be virtually unstoppable. Hitler’s plan for the invasion of England, named “Operation Sea Lion” was a daily focal point of danger and concern for the British.

Dunkirk had decimated the British forces and moral was at an all time low. Two recently returned veterans of British colonial rule in Shanghai, China approached the War Office and offered their services at this desperate time. William Ewart Fairbairn, retired as a ranking officer of the Shanghai Municipal Police force and his partner Eric Anthony Sykes, a private arms dealer who served as a “volunteer” in the SMP and who headed the “sniper” unit of the famed Shanghai Riot Squad promised the War Office that their training and methods could in short order make “any one man the equal of ten”. After the debacle at Dunkirk this was a MOST important and dramatic statement. Initially dismissed, these two men went on to PROVE the veracity of their words and convinced the power that be as to absolute effectiveness of their methods. If that meant that an over middle aged W.E. Fairbairn had to place several young bucks in the hospital to prove his point in an impromptu, but VERY realistic “demonstration”, so be it. Those who “tested” Sykes fared NO better. So the methods that these men had developed during decades of very dangerous work in Shanghai now became a highly valued and integral part of training for all British forces and Special Operations personnel.

The attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941 coupled with the Imperial Japanese military’s coordinated assault on all American and British forces across the Pacific Rim pulled the United States firmly in this world wide conflagration. We were now fully at war with the Axis forces. Fairbairn who was now in Canada, assigned to the infamous “Camp X” (where along with “unarmed combat” experts WEF and George de Relwyskow was a BRAZILIAN JUDO/JUJUTSU EXPERT, Hmmm…….Colonel Carl Eifler was ALREADY undergoing training here) was ordered to assist the US government agency known as the “The Office of the Co-coordinator of Intelligence” the precursor of the OSS. Eric Anthony Sykes remained in England and found the need for his services in great demand. He also found himself working under the auspice of the British covert force known as the Special Operations Executive.

The history of these men from the early days of Shanghai, up to and thru the war years is an entire story unto itself and beyond the scope of this article. However it must be clearly understood that the contribution of these men had a profound effect and influence on close-combat methods, tactics, and techniques for DECADES after the war. Despite the often heard “argument” that we have somehow “evolved” beyond these methods, we will in future articles put this notion to rest. They were however, certainly NOT the only “experts” involved in this field! An example (one of many) would be A.J. Drexel-Biddle who studied and trained extensively in boxing, Savate, jiu-jitsu, swordplay, knife-fighting and various bayonet methods.

As the United States geared up for war, a major factor began to be publicized. Both here and in Australia the press made a great deal about the superiority of the Japanese fighting man. Part of this was, to be sure, rooted in fact. The Battle of Port Arthur, the turning point in the Russo-Japanese war, several decades earlier, had shown the world the tenacity and ferocity of the Japanese soldier, particularly in the area of close-in man to man combat. Much was made of the large Russian soldier finding abject defeat at the hands of his smaller Japanese adversary when engaged in hand to hand combat(hence a very obvious boost for the creation of Sombo). Jiu-jitsu was given world-wide attention and notoriety in this regard. The Japanese conduct of their war in China also showed the world a seemingly invincible and unstoppable force. A force that was brutal and deadly in the extreme.

So much attention was given over to the training of US and Allied forces in methods that would enable the average soldier to meet the Japanese fighting man on a somewhat equal footing. EVERY branch of the Armed Services began an intensive physical training program designed to meet these needs. Much of the “expert” instruction needed, particularly in the arena of close-quarters man to man combat, came from the civilian quarter. Men with tremendous and varied life-long experience in all forms of “combatives” were tapped to create training programs that would give the Allied soldier sufficient means by which to engage their enemies at close-quarters. The Axis did the same of course, Japan being the obvious factor in this regard, BUT even Adolf Hitler proclaimed the absolute need for boxing and jiu-jitsu in military training as it imparted courage and daring to the average soldier to close with his enemy!

In the US there were a PLETHORA of varied methods and training systems. ANY attempt to narrowly define the methods extant in this era is FOOLISHNESS! Though the contribution of Lt. Colonel Fairbairn is GREAT, as is the influence of Colonel Applegate, there were DOZENS upon DOZENS of different close-quarters battle systems developed. From wrestling, boxing, savate, judo, jiu-jitsu, Chinese boxing, and even football and rugby methods were NOT only drawn upon, but entire “systems” were advocated based on these individual methods. It may come as a surprise to many, but here in the US, even Japanese KARATE was used!

Many of these “unarmed combat” courses were highly complex and technical as they were rooted in the favored methods of the men tasked with their “creation”. Wrestlers tended to rely on that method, Judo men on that system, Boxers on their expertise and so on and so on. Each method also could claim stunning success in actual combat! True after action reports showed that ALL of these methods had merit and COULD be used effectively in the rigors and stress of real battle. However, as the war progressed two major factors began to influence and change these training protocols. One was the fact that more and more men from ALL sorts of varied backgrounds being were drafted into military service, the other was that as demands for more and more replacement troops began to rise the amount of training time became by necessity reduced and limited.

The approach that seemed MOST feasible and useful was one that COMBINED the “best” or most effective, efficient and quickly learned methods as well as those most well RETAINED! The rudiments of boxing and wrestling were made part of an overall general physical conditioning program and “unarmed combat” became a specialized block of instruction. These courses in “unarmed combat”, “hand to hand combat”, “combat judo” and so forth again sought to COMBINE the most advantageous holds, throws, trips, locks, strangles, blows, strikes and kicks from all the varied methods available. The ONLY truly limiting factor here was the TIME element. Other considerations were also important. The O’Neill (another Shanghai veteran and ranking Kodokan Yudansha) method is a classic example of a system specifically tailored for both the training environment available as well as the NATURE of the combat engagement expected. There were even attempts made to instruct the military in actual Koryu Jujutsu systems here in the US! However the MOST effective systems still sought to MIX ALL the varied methods of physical combat.

As the war progressed more and more after action “intelligence” gathered from the reality of actual battle helped shape and determine training priorities. Many methods of close-combat began to be “trimmed” down to those fundamentals that proved MOST effective OVERALL and most applicable to ALL TRAINEES across a wide and varied spectrum of physical attributes and skill.

Applegate was perhaps the most vocal of these advocates owing to his exposure in the INFANTRY JOURNAL and the publishing of “KILL or GET KILLED”. And he was NOT without his critics, as was Fairbairn.

Some courses were so short in duration that they involved ONLY SEVERAL HOURS of instruction. Others were quite involved and very complete in their syllabus content. Many are familiar with the Navy V-5 programs and the training at Benning, but lesser known is the very EXTENSIVE training at places such as Fort Meade and at the Hawaii Jungle Warfare complex, just to name two! Here at these locations, and such training was conducted from Brooklyn to California, a very complete and MIXED program of “combatives” was taught. From the CIC training center in Chicago to the Army training camps in Colorado, from Parris Island to the Ranger/Commando schools in the Hawaiian Islands, from the training bases in England prior to D-Day to the “Killing” school in Palestine, the METHODS taught ran the FULL gamut of man to man tooth and nail “combatives”. From the complex to the “instinctive kill” (a method designed to take FULL advantage of so-called natural “animal” killing instinct) ALL these methods, systems, and approaches FALL under the definition of COMBATIVES! Even the OSS personnel training at Area B were shown the methods of SIAMESE boxing (read Muay Thai)! From Anglo Boxing, wrestling and grappling, French “foot-fighting” (including Assaut Vite savate), Indian Varma-adi/Varmannie, Chinese boxing, “Roman” boxing, Japanese Judo/Jujutsu and Karate, Siamese boxing, Burmese boxing-Bando (remember the CBI), western fencing, Filipino edged weapons and ANY and ALL other systems (including almost every weapon known to man) deemed effective in DISPATCHING one’s enemies to the hereafter were STUDIED, RESEARCHED. IMPLEMENTED and TRAINED! One WWII era US hand to hand combat manual makes reference to INDONESIAN “methods”!

This IS the legacy of COMBATIVES! This is the TRUE DEFINITION of COMBATIVES! And to those who need to “pigeon hole” others into the “box” of “only” doing World War II “combatives”………………………..well, applying the above definition based on the TRUE historical RECORD, then HELL YES!…………………I do follow the LEGACY of WORLD WAR TWO “COMBATIVES”!

Note: If there is sufficient interest we will also be pleased to cover ALL of these topics in FULL detail based on OBJECTIVE historical facts.

Future newsletter articles will go into depth on history, training and method covering armed and unarmed combat as well as topics on various subjects from Shanghai to “Shangri-La”(for those still wandering around in La-La land).

©2005 www.thetruthaboutselfdefense.com

Carl Cestari began his study of the martial arts with judo at the age of 7 under the direction of Yoshisada Yonezuka. During the past forty plus years Carl has dedicated his life to studying the martial arts, hand to hand combat systems, history and religion. What makes Carl unique is his combination of martial arts, law enforcement and military and real world experience. Carl has been exposed to a multitude of people with a wide variety experience. The following is a list of some of Carl’s ranks and honors.

Shinan (Founder) Tekkenryu jujutsu Ryokudan (6th degree) Koshinkai Karate under John Burrelle Godan (5th degree) Jujutsu under Clarke of the World Jujutsu Fedaration (now defunct) Sandan (3rd degree) Nippon Kempo under Narabu Sada Nidan (2nd degree) Judo under Masafumi Suzuki Shodan (1st degree) Judo under Yoshisada Yonezuka Shodan (1st degree) Shukokai Karate under Kimura, Kadachi and Yonezuka Shodan (1st degree) Daitoryu Aikijujutsu Instructors Certificate- Charles Nelson System of Self Defense under Charlie Nelson http://www.thetruthaboutselfdefense.com

Thanks to several centuries of enlightened teachings by extraordinary men in the martial disciplines, we don’t have to be restricted to lives of getting and spending, waiting in quiet desperation for the pain to cease.

Most of us in the Arts focus on the tasks in front of our noses (the correct hand forms/kicks/body alignments), forgetting our option to consciously evolve along the way to physical perfection.

Words are easy, but we can avoid just blowing mouth-wind here by listing some timeless guides for self-growth, followed by training suggestions:

* The physical and cerebral functions die, while the spirit continues to grow. This is a no-brainer, but it’s amazing how many clubs are satisfied with learning only to kick butt. What’s left when full contact is a thing of your matured past, with only knee pains to jolt a dim memory? Lots of ways to answer that one—and it’s better to cultivate chi and meditation practices now.

* Assume you know nothing—then the Superior Man will appear. The most formidable opponent is your own ego. In training, first learn to listen and watch carefully, then proceed with selfless attention and caution. Your higher functions will then operate without impediments.

* No authority exists outside of your Self. The successful student-master relationship is necessarily a symbiotic one. Each needs the other in order to bring the task at hand to fruition. Many modern followers of the martial arts have forgotten that the grading system produces no absolute ranks. The system is circular: the student must decide by what criteria he wishes to be graded, and then he finds an acceptable person to confer the content of the desired curriculum. Similarly, the teacher must decide the qualities of a potentially desirable student, then contract with that candidate. Both are dipping from the same well, both are reflections of a Being offering meta-cultural sustenance.

* Nature points the Way. It is not possible to express in words what is most real, sublime, and ultimate. Recognizing the limitations of the intellect, martial training traditions guide with the lamp of direct experience. The fool wastes energy talking, while the Master gets on with the work—usually outside.

* Change or die. You are here to evolve, and that means transformation—rarely pleasant, always necessary if we wish to do more than languish in a past of illusions. That which does not change dies soon thereafter. It’s important to keep your training fresh and stimulating; this usually will mean putting some quality hours into solitary disciplines.

* Comfort is dangerous, seek the difficult. In training, eat bitter every day. Don’t forget to hammer the basics: they will keep your workouts honest—and provide you with powerful tools to manifest new ideas.

* Bitter alone is a poor diet. Eating bitter every day is only one side of the tri-lateral equation. One thousand kicks daily will not stretch your mind’s rational capabilities, nor will it feed psychic circuits of intuition. A complete Art of leg maneuvers combines proper attention, visualization, and conscious breath control patterns, along with repetitions of well-aligned kicking form.

* Suffering is a great Teacher, but life-threatening poverty is not Noble. It is a fact of human existence that we learn a great deal more from our struggles than from complacency. But if we are to advance in training, we must maintain a decent standard of living, thus guarding the Three Treasures of the Temple.

* Chasing the illusions of wealth, position, status, social power will stunt your evolution. Modern men have been divested, emasculated, and tamed through social programming by the culture of commerce. We are told to defend marketing strategies, bottom lines, and aggressive growth policies of business cartels. These social programmers love money. What do you love?

View this article in its entirety here: http://kempochuanfa.com

Sifu Orem holds the following ranks:

-Certified Instructor, Guang Ping Yang T’ai-Chi Assn.;

-Black Sash/Instructor, from Gung-Fu Wu-Shu Institute;

-6th Degree Black Sash in Chinese Boxing, from the International Chinese Boxing Federation;

-8th Degree Black Belt in Zen Kempo-jitsu, from the World Nibuikai Budo Federation.

He was also voted into the World Martial Arts Masters Society (head-quartered in Germany), as the ranking member of the Society.

Sifu Orem is the author of several manuals focused on the practicum and methodology of effective training, including the acclaimed SENG PING TAO: PATH OF THE WARRIOR MONK and ESOTERIC MARTIAL ARTS OF ZEN: TRAINING METHODS FROM THE PATRIARCH. He has also created and produced 50 training videos with such diverse topics as Kempo Ki/Chi Development, Northern Shaolin for the Mature Athlete, T’ai-chi and Pregnancy, a children’s Kung Fu series, plus many northern and southern Shaolin hand and weapon forms. He’s a featured writer with the on-line martial arts magazine DRAGON’S LIST (dragonslist.com).

Write eorem@yahoo.com