Taijiquan Memories: Alan Sims with his fan

Taijiquan Memories

These are my taijiquan memories from 2003, when I took my first, and probably best, trip to San Francisco. I was able to afford...
The Illustrated Canon of Chen Family Taijiquan

A Kaleidoscope of Movement and Feeling

Alan Sims performing the form from Chen Xin's book. The late Bruce Lee was and still is admired by many for his martial arts ability...
Knowledge and Judgement

Knowledge and Judgement in the Martial Arts

Knowledge and judgment comes from experience. Experience comes from good or bad judgment regarding life situations, which leads to evolution over time. That’s how...
Kimo Williams

The Tao in Jujitsu

What is the Tao? Master Okazaki wrote in his Esoteric Principles "...To perfect one's character one must be grateful for the abundant blessings of Heaven,...
Tang Soo Do Seoul Forum 2012

1st Tang Soo Do Seoul Forum: Technology and Transparency in the Martial Arts

I was asked to speak at the World Moo Duk Kwan General Federation’s 1st Tang Soo Do Seoul Forum in Korea. I was invited...

Martial Arts Lineage

When any two serious martial arts enthusiasts meet, the conversation will inevitably turn to martial arts lineage, and to these questions: Who do you...
The Sensei - Tahoe Mountain Fitness

The Sensei

The relationship of a Sensei to the dojo is very difficult to define, as it encompasses many varying aspects of life. The Sensei must...
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...
Perfect Practice Makes Perfect

Perfect Practice Makes Perfect

There are certain names that are associated with the development and promotion of the martial arts, names such as Sosai Masutatsu Oyama, Kyokushin karate;...
Martial Thought

Martial Thought

Thought is not uniquely human, but it is unique in the level of thinking power that mankind possesses. Man is a reflective and thinking...
Donald Miskel

Ushi Deshi: Students of the Heart

In my fifty five plus years of studying, researching and teaching the martial arts I have had only a few personal, closed door students....
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...
Fighting Without Fighting

A Practical Guide To Fighting Without Fighting

We oft hear the phrase "fighting without fighting" in movies and books. This conjures up ideas from the mystic to the manic. The fact...
Donald Miskel

Spirit Boxing

The line between a journeyman or practitioner and a master practitioner is a fine one. As one advances into the dan ranks he'll begin...
Donald Miskel

White Belt Karate for The Black Belt Fighter

White belt karate perfected to black belt level is karate at its efficient best. Let’s get back to real karate. Leave the esoteric stuff...
Donald Miskel

Pit Bull Kung Fu

Many systems of kung fu were developed by mimicking various animals. maybe I should create a style of American kung fu. Maybe I’ll call...