Tag Archives: karate
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
Why I Don’t Trane UFC
I generally don’t disclose my lifelong interest in martial arts to my English classes. The inevitable conversation ensues: You do karate? Why are you a teacher? You should fight in the UFC! After all, if Kevin James can do it, so can … Continue reading
The Grand Master
Here’s a nice article about my sensei, Ed DeCosta from a local newspaper. I mentioned his promotion to 9th-dan recently, and you can read more by following the link below. Congratulations to Ed and the others who earned promotions as … Continue reading
The Old Ways of New Masters: Interview with Michael Bacon
My interview with Michael Bacon is a perfect example of what The Old Ways of New Masters series is all about. A godan (5th degree black belt) in Shohei-Ryu Karate, Michael has been training steadily since childhood. After joining Ed … Continue reading
The Old Ways of New Masters
Once upon a time, before taking up teaching karate and starting a family, I began a book proposal about martial arts and their effects on the lives of Americans. The working title was The Old Ways of New Masters, and I decided to focus on people … Continue reading
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
Choosing the Right Martial Arts Equipment
Here’s a humorous guest post from the folks over at Blitz Sport in the UK. It includes some sound gear buying advice, and a few good zingers as well. Enjoy! – Bill _____ Choosing the right martial arts equipment when … Continue reading
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
Who Are Your Martial Arts Heroes?
Here’s a quick post about my top three martial arts heroes. I’m really most interested in learning about yours! Please list them in the comments. Include names, styles, and the positive influence they’ve had on your art and life. 1.) … Continue reading










Passion and Warfare: How to Stay True to Your Fighting Spirit
When I was a teenager, I was sort of obsessed with guitarist Steve Vai. His wild, fiery rock and roll playing is outrageously technical, and, some say, a tad overwrought. But his craziest runs are often balanced by quieter, thoughtful … Continue reading →