Donald Miskel

Martial Arts Ramblings . . .

Thank you for listening to the martial arts rambling of an old man. I appreciate your patience. Like many my age my martial arts...
Donald Miskel

Training In The Nojo

I learned what I know of focus, form and function in the dojo, but I learned to fight in the streets; in the nojo. No,...
Donald Miskel

Becoming A Man

Becoming a man doesn’t happen by accident. It isn’t by coincidence or happenstance. It is a choice and it requires constant conscious effort. It...
Donald Miskel

The Martial Arts Police

Who made certain of us the martial arts police is a mystery to me, but some of us seem to have assumed that position. I...
Donald Miskel

Forging the Sword – Body Mind Spirit

We are triune in our being. We are body mind spirit. The wise martial artist will be holistic in his approach, considering his whole...
Donald Miskel

No Holds Barred: MMA Versus Traditional Martial Arts

Everyone is talking about MMA versus traditional martial arts and the effects that MMA is having on martial arts schools around the world. Here...
Donald Miskel

The Courage of Self: Be Who You Are and Strive To Become Your Best

Be who you are and strive to become your best with that as a foundation. With a good foundation there’s no limit to what you...
Donald Miskel

Martial Arts Effectiveness

It is my belief that the martial art has to be tailored to reflect the need of the times we live in. The one...
Donald Miskel

Dishonor in the Martial Arts

Most of you who read this know who I am and you know my reputation. You may not all like me or agree with...
Donald Miskel

Fighting For You Life

Let’s talk about fighting. I’m not talking about kumite. I’m not talking about MMA. I’m not even talking about self defense. I’m talking about...
Donald Miskel

Spiritual Aspects of Martial Arts

There are many aspects to the martial arts. Most people think in terms of the self defense and combative disciplines when they think of...
Cane Master Canes

Don’t Overlook the Lowly Stick or Cane

Let me encourage you as you blaze your martial path to not overlook the lowly stick or cane. You’ll find that the stick or...
Donald Miskel

Renshi, Shihan, Hanshi (Oh My)

There are teachers, sensei and masters out there in every shape size and variety. They teach some of anything and everything an aspiring martial...
Donald Miskel

Being a Grandmaster isn’t so Grand

Those of us that are still somewhat active at this age know that being a Grandmaster isn’t so grand. A lot of age and...
Donald Miskel

Mental Kung Fu: Use Your Mind

Use your mind as your first resource. Your first line of defense. Observe and always be aware of your surroundings and any possible impending...
Donald Miskel

Do or Jitsu?

You are a martial artist, I understand. Tell me, what do you study; a "Do" or a "Jitsu"? Everyone who studies a martial discipline isn't...