My instructor is fond of saying that "The number one rule of martial arts is..." replacing ... with a variety of statements, sometimes toungue-in-cheek. He'll say the rule, then follow with "If you haven't noticed yet, there's a lot of number one rules for martial arts."

I was wondering if anybody out there could offer a few of their own "Number One Rules"

Here are some I can think of off hand:

-Don't stop to admire your own work.
-Get out of the way first.
-Bend your knees.
-Hit them more than they hit you.

and...
-Bring exact change

During class Im constantly yelling hands up and more power!

'Use koshi.'
'Never lock your elbow.'
'Always...two hands/arms moving in a technique.'

Breathe!

You'd be surprised how many people forget that part.

Remembered a couple more.

-Enter with pain.
-Keep your hands up.

Quote:

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Breathe!

You'd be surprised how many people forget that part.

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Yeah, that's a good one. And I don't think I'd be TOO surprised, It's always funny when a form is punctuated by gasps for air. If only I didn't still have to remind myself occasionally.

"Take your training seriously. It is not a game."

It's a journey, not a destination.

Don't take your training TOO seriously. Or yourself.


-John

Test it - does it work?

"Bend Your Knees!"
"KIAI!!"
"Stop breathing like that!!" (Long story)


Our AKK Grandmaster's Favorite First Rule of Fighting:

"DON'T GET HIT!!"