Mixing Arts

[Joshua Haskins]

Do you think that it is right to mix arts when teaching?  There is a system here that i tried a class for, and they were showing me some of the kicks when a brown belt in Karate came in and started doing this with us.  We were practicing Kungfu.  I asked him later if he had done Kungfu to learn the kicks, and he said no.  It turns out that they have mixed several arts and then call it Kungfu or Karate, etc.  I am just wondering what your opinion is on this.

[SiGung Vincent A. Cabais]

I think you know my philosophy on this issue.   But, let me elaborate a bit more!

I think it is sad when schools mislead new students by calling their art something different than it actually is.  There should be no shame with creating a Martial Art.  Others in the past have done it... people in the future will also.  The Martial Arts are the opinions of combat principles.  Most human beings understand combat.  So, it is not uncommon for someone to create their own M.A..

My only solid issue is... they should utilize 'standards' and 'philosophies' from succesful systems as a root for morality in their new Martial Art.  They should also not try to delude themselves or others with un-tried principles.

[David McCormack]

Sifu,

What are your feelings about competitions with other martial art forms?  There have been several sparing tournements in Sullivan that involve Tae Kwon Do and Karate.  Is there any way for our schools or some of our students to become involved in these tourneys??  Maybe we can get involved in another tourney in additions to Binky's circus.  I mean Ultimate Dragon. Any way... Interested in your thoughts.

Thanks,

Dave

 

[SiGung Vincent A. Cabais]

I don't see a problem with participating with other tournaments.  However, that shouldn't be the focus.  It can be quite educational and entertaining and I can think of worse things that our students could be doing.

Just follow our "Code of Conduct" (ask for specific permission) before you commit to these tournaments.  Ask advice... all it can do is help.