Category Archives: Inspirational

Why Leslie Knope is my Karate Idol

A lot of people have favorite karateka: Chuck Norris, Lyoto Machida, Rex Kwon Do. But I propose a different person to look up to.  Someone not exactly known for her martial arts prowess.  Someone like Leslie Knope. I’ll admit my choice … Continue reading

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The Oni – A Karate Poem

After training alone in my home dojo this week, I recognized that without consistent practice in kata, I would probably go crazy.  It is a wonderful gift passed down from generation and generation: intricate movements worth mastering that provide self-defense … Continue reading

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Karate in the Snow

I live in New England. Temperatures have been below freezing almost all winter. It’s snowing, again. Do I need any other reason to post some of the best videos of intrepid karateka training in the snow?  I like to work … Continue reading

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Karate Poem

Here’s a neat multimedia poem created by Jesse Enkamp of KarateByJesse.  I think a lot of us can relate.  Why not take a minute to check it out?  It will remind you about the things we love most about training … Continue reading

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Three Quick Tips on Starting a Martial Art (as Presented by Bruce Lee)

I’ve been teaching martial arts informally for a long time, and I’ve been running my own programs at Gracie Farmington Valley since 2011.  I encounter new students all the time with various levels of experience in the martial arts.  I’m … Continue reading

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Karate Chopped: Five MMA Fighters Who Have Conquered Addiction

It’s been a while since we’ve shared a guest post with you.  Here’s an interesting and inspirational look at fighters who’ve overcome addiction from author and MMA fan Jennie Reedy.  Enjoy, and let us know what you think! ____________________ The high-adrenaline … Continue reading

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Keep It Playful

Are you tired of being so tired after every martial arts training session? Are you battered or bettered after each class? Are you still having fun, or are you in a rut? If you provided negative answers to any of … Continue reading

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Fitness Inspiration

I know I gush a lot about Ross Enamait on this blog, but his low-tech, high-effect approach to training is what got me to change my entire outlook on fitness. Yeah, MMA training and CrossFit is in vogue, but Ross … Continue reading

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Fighting the Good Fight

Here’s an inspiration guest post from Seth Carrino, owner of Valiant Mixed Martial Arts & Fitness. In this article he discusses how to set goals and how to fight until you reach them Very empowering stuff. Enjoy! – Bill _____ … Continue reading

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5 Steps to Becoming a World Class Martial Artist

Here’s an inspiring guest post from writer and self-defense expert Neal Martin of Combative Mind. He covers some of the best ways to improve your martial arts training by increasing your level of commitment; in short, Neal clearly outlines the … Continue reading

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