Yau Kung Mun

Realistic Training Environments

2012-02-18T06:20:00.000-08:00

An article was posted at Low Tech Combat recently, talking about the reasons to train in and around your vehicle.

This subject should be addressed, especially for those in the realistic self defense community. In the 70's, I read articles of Al Dacascos training in a studio that had a bar (with stools) inside.

I believe you need safe, flat, well lit areas to practice basic movements, experiment with new drills, etc. Once a person understands basic movements, move directly into confined environments and discover for yourself the actions that work, need modification, etc. How can you use the frame of the car to assist you in locking/leverage techniques, as an impact area, etc?

This applies to weaponry as well, particularly knives and firearms.

Hope to get more posts in during the coming months.

Train hard, train smart, train always.

Gung Hay Fat Choy

2012-01-22T15:36:00.000-08:00

Wishing a Great and Prosperous New Year of the Dragon to all.

Train harder and smarter this year.

Post your New Year Events in the comments section.

Internal Strength Weight Training program

2012-01-10T16:20:00.000-08:00

An update from Yau Kung Mun Sweden - an Introduction to their Internal Strength Training Program.

Covers the usage of free weights and machines, incorporated into their YKM training regime.

Definitely worth a closer look.

Happy New Year 2012

2012-01-01T08:48:00.000-08:00

First post of the year - review of the Yum Yeung Jik Bo Kuen DVD from Yau Kung Mun Sweden - coming soon - BLUF - a rgeat intro into the art.

What other topics would you like to read about here in the coming year? Write me at yachtsecurity@privacyharbor.com and let me know.

Some random images to start the year.

Holiday Shopping Tips

2011-11-26T14:22:00.001-08:00

From 'Muay Thai: Beyond the Ring" - a look at holiday shopping and parking lot safety.

Many good points brought up, many applicable to all parts of our lives - not just during the holiday season.

One point to add -if caught up in a flash mob of sorts, you may have to act the part of a mob member, to go with the flow of the crowd. Then move to the side and disengage from the flow of the crowd. Use guile and deception to get yourself to a position of safety.

Be safe this season, and always.

Empty Your Cup and Fill Your Tool Box

2011-09-29T22:10:00.000-07:00

From the blog of SEAMOK: I have taken several of the parts out for inclusion here. For the whole article, please visit them at http://thesilverbackchronicles.blogspot.com.

"Within the world of self preservation through the usage of force you will find various opinions stemming from the many characters that make up this realm. On one hand you will have the firearm guys, on another you will have the martial arts guys. Both will come with a plethora of reasons why what they do is best.....

I am a firm believer in the tool box mentality when it comes to self preservation, the right tool for the right job. Where the problem lies with both the afore mentioned mindsets is in the lack of well roundedness. One must be able to perform at a high level in all aspects of self preservation through force continuum. For example, how does the individual with no empty hand combatives experience or training obtain his firearm (pistol) under duress? ....

"The rules of street combat apply here.

The attack is ambush oriented
The attackers intent is violence first
The attacker is not alone
The attacker is potentially armed
The attacker will not stop

If one truly understands these 5 rules he or she will be able to construct an empty hand curriculum to help complete their toolbox, giving them a better chance of survival when it all goes south.

To fix this mess one must have the ability to shelve ego and start anew. I have done it as have many of my piers. To me it only makes sense. We are living in a time where people fly planes into buildings and attack innocent people just to build their credibility within their own ranks.

Whether your a gun guy, an empty hand specialist or a knifer you owe it to yourself and to your family to build a better you and by doing so you will find that in essence it is all the same, just a different tool. The truth lies in the understanding and training of principles over technique. If one truly understands the principles of movement and motion technique will become infinite.

Do yourself a favor, become complete in all avenues of combatives (Edged, Impact, Projectile and Empty Hands)...by doing this you will find that no matter where the fight may go you are ready and by being ready survival now becomes a much easier task to fulfill.

Survival, its your right!

Mike Blackgrave

SEAMOK Tactical Solutions

Simplicity With Intent'

Targeting, revisited

2011-09-27T07:16:00.000-07:00

From the Self Defense Company - a short primer on targeting.

Basically, one of the aspects of self defense (or offensive actions taken in defense of self) is to hit hard and the strike vulnerable areas of the body. You don't have to be a brain scientist or a rocket surgeon to figure this out.

If you are going to study to be a 'Master', then the knowledge of how, what happens and why medically of the target is important. For usage right now, a basic level of knowledge will suffice. It is more important to put the time into learning how to deliver the strikes to the proper areas with effect, and that is best done with actual practice time - time on the mats (ala the Target Focus Training methodology), banging at the Mook Jong and heavy bags, Muay Thai and Boxing pad work, etc.

In depth study (correlating acupuncture points to nerve plexus' and such) will enhance your knowledge and may enable you to converse with like minded friends - but the bottom line is to hit the vulnerable areas hard. And as often as necessary.

I have been neglecting my Internet research as of late - no cool target graphics - so I'll leave you with this photo...

Omei Bak Mei DVD 1 now available!

2011-09-10T06:46:00.000-07:00

From the folks at YKM Sweden in conjunction with Sifu Garry Hearfield. Saw the preview, and it looks good. Will review it here when I get a copy.

Improvised Weapons

2011-09-01T09:06:00.000-07:00

Improvised Weapons: Rethinking the Paradigm for Improvised Defense

An article by George Mathies, posted on ITSTactical.com.

One notable quote - "My thought was that too many people have watched the Bourne movies."

Almost any item can become a weapon, although some items (say jello, for istance) maybe not as effective as others (a hammer). The real heart of the matter comes down to mindset and will to use whatever is at hand to prevail. Think a mom in defense of her kids will hesitate to use the nearest object to pummel the attacker?

With improvised weapons, before actually picking up a hairbrush and practicing with it, take a look around. What items do you see, and how can you use them? How accessible are they? Would it be more efficient to attack the asshole/criminal with your natural (fist, forearms, feet) weapons first, and then try to access the comb you have shoved deep in your pocket for defense?

Just suggesting that the subject can be deeper than 'how can my credit card be used to disable the attacker'?

2 interesting articles

2011-08-21T02:30:00.000-07:00

Cleaning up my computer, here are two blog articles I bookmarked om my Google Reader.

From the folks over at ITSTactical: a nice article on getting the ladies in your life prepared.

And from FerFAL - a nice set of tips to help prevent crime (rather than react to it).

Reality Check

2011-08-18T06:37:00.000-07:00

Reality Check -, from the Expat Daily News blog for Aug 18, 2011.

Good article, along the same lines as what we try to stress here and at Yacht Security - be aware of your surroundings, don't succumb to paranoia and quit living.

Not much more needs to be said - but plenty more needs to be done.

Situational Awareness

2011-08-14T04:08:00.000-07:00

Came across this post about Situational Awareness on Stratfor.

If the examples given in the article help you understand the concept better, or allow you to explain them to loved ones, it is well worth the re-posting.

Self-protection is not just fists, feet and conditioning the body. Mindset plays a very important part.

As an added benefit, if you are more aware, you will discover more wonderful things about the world around that you may have been missing.

The No Bull**it Guide To Self Defense For Ladies

2011-08-05T08:34:00.000-07:00

The No Bull**it Guide To Self Defense For Ladies

Found this today, and feel it is quite to the point. Not just for ladies, either; for all who may feel the need for self protection.

He has written a companion piece (more for the boys out there) about fist fighting.

Been a while...

2011-08-03T09:46:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the long time between posts here. Been busy with a new job, and all that stuff.

Still training, still doing TacFit Commando (just started the second month of my second run through). Seems to hit all the areas i want, just need to add in kettlebell work or pullups now and again. One of these days, I'll start in on the TacFit R.O.P.E routine - maybe in 8 months :-)

Feel free to email me at yachtsecurity@privacyharbor.com - let me know you are reading these random thoughts....

Two more posts from YKM Sweden

2011-06-28T14:03:00.000-07:00

Actually, I think it is Warrior Body Buddha Mind, but I want to put in a plug for Christer.

First link is for the YKM lion dancers in Sydney

Second link is for a DVD release they are planning shortly - I recommend getting it (I will) as it will include some very fundamental aspects that pertain to YKM (Float, Sink, Swallow, Spit) and other Hakka arts.

Golden Praying Mantis Kung Fu

2011-06-28T13:57:00.000-07:00

For the entire interview and the photos, visit the blog at Warrior Body Buddha Mind

Golden Praying Mantis Kung Fu
Interview with Sifu Garry Hearfield about the Golden Praying Mantis Kung Fu system

The following interview conducted with Sifu Garry Hearfield via e-mail and online chats sheds some light on the very rare Golden Praying Mantis Kung Fu.

Chris: What is the Golden Mantis?

Sifu Garry: The name is called Gum Tong Long meaning Golden Mantis or Golden Praying Mantis which is an internal martial arts system that seems to be of Buddhist faith according to Grandmaster Doo Wai. Gold in Chinese belongs to purity and is spiritual in essence, such as how alchemy turns lead into gold, this is what we are trying to perfect within ourselves in the Golden Mantis System.

Chris: What is its origin?

Sifu Garry: Unknown, only that it was handed down inside the Doo family and belongs to a Buddhist temple somewhere in China. I believe he said Goddess of Mercy or Kwan Yin temple in southern China but don't quote me on that. Possibly 200 - 300 years old, it has some characteristics of both the Nam Tong Long and the Bak Tong Long southern and northern Mantis.

Chris: What does Golden Mantis contain?

Sifu Garry: This mantis is very internal, uses the elements just like the insect itself connected to the earth but uses the sun and moon for its rest and feeding habits. It has a morning practice at sunrise with seated meditation and energy exercises and the Golden Mantis Hei Gung which has been closely guarded. According to Grandmaster Doo Wai this set contains many secret keys for health and internal power.

It also contains one long hand set with over 150 moves that is broken down and developed individually to express each hand or force. San Sau is broken down with pad and hanging bags to condition and understand the style. Two-man drills and body conditioning is trained also along with rolling bar and claw bags. It also has a healing side with its energy and Chinese Dit Dar therapies.

Chris: Does Golden Mantis have any weapons?

Sifu Garry: We teach two weapons, the staff and the double butterfly knives, it’s a small system but less is more in this case. I like smaller systems, means I can tear it apart and it’s not redundant in its forms!

Chris: What type of healing does it use?

Sifu Garry: It uses traditional Chinese medicine - Dit Dar but also has its own energy work that is unique to this mantis style.

Chris: How did you learn it?

Sifu Garry: I studied this through Grandmaster Doo Wai and he has allowed me to release certain information at certain times, this is the time for Golden Mantis. This system can be learnt very fast, only a few years, to be very efficient and will bring healthy results. Only took me two years to get it down due to my training in Yau Kung Mun and Bak Mei Pai so was an easy transition. I’ve been doing this system now for the last 6 or 7 years with other information that he has selflessly shared with me, he is a man of much knowledge indeed.

Chris: What would you like to see happen with the Golden Mantis System?

Sifu Garry: Well I would love for it to live on and never die, it’s a true treasure with all my Kung Fu systems I teach, of course, but right now I want to push and promote this very rare style. It’s hard to find dedicated students, even harder to find dedicated and respectful students. We’d rather it not be taught at all to people that will bring it shame or disrespect than to have it out bastardized so to speak. I guess sooner or later it will happen regardless right?? Hahaha sad but true!!! If we can get a nice following and later teachers out there teaching this healthy martial art system with quality and not so much quantity I think there is a chance this system may survive.

Chris: What fighting methods does it contain?

Sifu Garry: It is a close to middle range system, that uses the phoenix-eye fists, claws, elbows, knees, forearms, finger strikes, like most fighting systems. Also has clinch and standing arm locks and submissions. Does not contain ground fighting but added to would make a super MMA system. It uses many trapping and sticking, smashing and destruction techniques.

Chris: What is it you the love most about this system?

Sifu Garry: The Golden Mantis Hei Gung, it’s a real treasure, the core of this system hence the name, very basic set but powerful with its symbology and meaning, breathing patterns and understanding of Yau Kung forces within the body. The set helps cultivate energy through its standing practice which alone is excellent for health regardless of system. It distributes the energy through blocking of energy points in the body with certain postures and movements that resemble the insect itself. To wake up to the sunrise and embrace the force that gives life to all living things on this planet makes this system worth more than gold or wealth. This system is a spiritual path of a warrior monk and I can see why!

Chris: Is there anyone teaching this system?

Sifu Garry: To my knowledge, no, it is only because of my training over the years with Grandmaster Doo Wai that I was picking it up and never spoke of anyone that I know of in BFP family. Although I could be wrong!! He appointed me the BFP representative as well for other Doo family treasures such as Omei Bak Mei Pai, Omei Fo Jeung (Burning palm) and many more methods. I still have a lot to master myself but rather than keep this secretive, he has asked for me to release it to the public now. I know you have been doing this for some years now; maybe you like to share some of your own views on Golden Mantis?

Chris: Thank you very much for taking the time to answer all these questions Sifu!

Sifu Garry: Your welcome brother, we all here for a good time and learning the ancient ways can only make us better human beings. Kung Fu is a life style, not a fad...best wishes to the family!

Colour Codes of Awareness

2011-06-28T13:46:00.000-07:00

From the folks at Low Tech Combat

'The Colour Codes of Awareness can be used as a model or system for conceptualishttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifing just how we should actually apply awareness. Many people espouse that we should always maintain awareness of our surroundings and be on the lookout for warning signs and indicators that warn of a person about to possibly attack. But it can still be unclear as to how we should go about being ‘aware’.'

'All you need to do is start off at yellow and avoid white. Its that simple.

Yellow then orange then red. Hopefully that is all. That is how awareness works and how awareness equals avoidance.'

It is ironic, the more aware we are, the less likely we are to use the skills we have developed over the years. Ironic, but in a good way.

Train hard, train smart, but do train.

How to deal with Flash Mobs

2011-06-28T13:18:00.000-07:00

Some great words of advice in this article from The Modern Survivalist -

'The two most common rules, the ones that people that get hurt or killed by them fail to remember are 1) Don’t get involved with them! 2) Get away from them as fast as possible.'

Sometimes even a Master of Kung Fu needs to know how to beat a tactical retreat.

Dojo Rat

2011-06-05T17:20:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note - fellow blogger Dojo Rat has written a piece on the ComTech Stinger, wel worth the price of admission (follow the link).

Stop by his site and do some reading, always a pleasure.

TacFit Commando

2011-05-28T06:40:00.000-07:00

Just finished the ninth month of TacFit Commando - a fitness routine developed by Scott Sonnon and the folks at rmaxinternational.

Ii was initially a bit put-off by the advertising campaign, but with a little research decided to give it a try. There is an excellent primer on the programs at Herman Chauw's blog.

I stuck through the program through last years Holiday season, a bit of traveling and have come out the other side feeling fit, more agile, and lost a couple of inches around the waist. A friend has lost 40 pounds since starting in January (although he also watches his diet much better than I and runs quite a bit).

My next 'exploration' will be TacFit ROPE - but I'll wait a month before starting. Some schedule changing days/weeks ahead next month, so I'll train the exercise techniques from ROPE and have them down pat prior to committing to the course.

In sum, I feel the TafFit Commando routine will help any martial artist, with your specific art's conditioning exercises incorporated into the training schedule.

Update

2011-04-24T18:06:00.000-07:00

Been busy with work, travel, this and that.

Just finished the 8th month of TacFit Commando, starting the 9th (and last) iteration later this week. After that, I may try to incorporate TacFit ROPE into the training routine.

Still reviewing my sets, training some combative drills with friends. Hard to find the time to train with others; training solo I can make the time (somewhere).

A good friend has been doing TacFit Commando, and he has lost about 35 pounds - but he also runs like a fiend, has been eating good diet, etc. I have lost about 10 pounds, but mostly have lost about an inch and a half around the waist.

Hotel Security

2011-04-10T18:18:00.000-07:00

Hotel Security - a post on FerFal's blog by Rick Davis. Lots of common sense advice.

An additional item that I consider good to have for hotel rooms is a fairly cheap motion sensor, battery operated, that provides either LED or LED with a loud doorbell type chime - I picked one up for less than $20. It provides just a little bit of warning and distraction to an unwelcome guest, and will wake you to deal with the problem.

Stay safe.

Re-post from James Keatings pages..

2011-03-29T18:16:00.000-07:00

Mr. Keating has posted a nice observation on his nearly daily updated page MAAJAK World
the following -

"Have you noticed a near complete BLACKOUT of news from Japan? Why do you think this is? Have you noticed the news that does exist is always double-talk, confusing and difficult to really grasp? Vague bullshit is what it is. Things are very, very bad in Japan - Beyond what any of us can comprehend. Because this involves the future of life on this planet it falls beyond our chronistic vision capabilities (aka "short sighted assholes that we are). Time is truly a slippery slope when one is focused only upon the present. The terror of today shall soon enough turn into to the sorrow of tomorrow. By then too late to shift the flow of evil things and they shall have their way on this plane of existence.. Have ya noticed the blogs, websites and articles that have all suddenly popped up? Each and every one appears to be of help, claims to be Connected. How so? Mostly psy-ops, mostly its the fabled THEM of screen and legend. To THEM this is all an interesting science experiment. Dis-information and fear is their trade. There is this one Youtube cat called "Dutch".. man, what a scammer, look at the comments.. pleas from reader-believers to give them the real info, real help.. but that DUTCH he just keeps them on a string and watches'em dance while he claps his hands. Otherwise he WOULD help those who ask by providing real data-help over the shit he spits forth. The list of these game playing attention seekers is too long to note. Just be aware of their presence and agendas... take their crap w/ a grain of salt... disbelief has power - just as believing does. Just Tools / use'em."

I feel that a large part of self-defense/self-protection/self-preservation involves using our intelligence and intuition to guide us away from hazards in life - use the gift of discernment, and research your subjects well. Don't take all information from one source as the only 'facts'. Avoid the lazy road of 'cultism' - you are your own leader. As President Reagan famously put it - 'Trust, but verify'.

Why are more Police being killed

2011-03-27T16:03:00.000-07:00

Excellent article from George at MerCop

Why are more police being killed?
from Modern Combative Systems Blog by George

Over the last several days, I have seen this question posed on TV and the Internet. What follows is my opinion on the answer.

Many things have changed in law enforcement over the years, but one thing has remained the same. At some point the officer has to put cuffs on the bad guy and take him to jail, and some will kill to keep themselves from going back to jail. Of course for some, it is a premeditated conscious decision that they are willing to kill an officer. But in most cases, I believe, it is just a spontaneous violent reaction, in a long, long line of them. Our bad guys still grow up in a violent world where you fight for everything. On the other hand, more than ever before, we are getting officers who have never been tackled, punched in the face, or even had the breath knocked out of them by another human. This lack of inoculation to violence is coupled by the strick guidelines for people who wish to pursue a career in law enforcement. These days a defending of yourself in middle school will likely get you suspended or worse. More suppression of the natural reaction to defend yourself even when attacked.

Fast forward and the same person decides a government job would provide a decent pension after 20-25 years of age. Being free of anything in their background that would lead anyone to believe they have a violent streak, they are hired and sent to the academy.

The goal of a police academy, in theory, is to teach the police officer everything they need to know to be effective and to defend themselves and others. The reality is that they have dedicated themselves to protecting themselves from liability, instead of protecting the officers from the dangers they will face. It is not the fault of the academy staff, but rather bosses and politicians.

Firearms training is vital to the police officer, but the vast majority of situations begin with physical contact between the officer and suspect. Most systems for arrest & control or defensive tactics taught in academies become inside jokes due to their lack of effectiveness in real situations. Much of this training relies on pain compliance which is all but worthless on people under the influence of drugs and alcohol, or even against someone with an adrenaline dump. So now they bring no skills with them to the academy, and pick up techniques. So what happens is that they become dependent of things like pepper spray, the Taser, and the gun. It is no wonder why most allegations of excessive use of force involve the use of weapons besides firearms. None of which they are likely to have in their hands when inside grappling range with a suspect. Then one day they encounter a suspect who fights to kill them so they can walk away, instead of all the others who fought so they could run away.

These problems are best dealt with in in-service training, but sadly much of that time is taken with courses on cultural diversity or how to use the new computers in the car. To the bosses who are reading this, you need to also understand that realistic training for your officers will result in loss time injuries. Common sense and prevention will keep these to a minimum. But you cannot prepare for combat without incurring some bumps and bruises.

The other side of the coin is that good solid police who meet confrontation head on and don’t hesitate to use appropriate force, sometimes faster than their peers, are singled out by supervisors. Sooner or later even the most dedicated officer cannot ignore the fact that every time they use force it brings criticism. Eventually this leads to hesitation, and hesitation kills.

So to all those who are wringing their hands over why police are being killed, spare me. Just accept the fact that police need to know how to be effectively violent in the blink of an eye. This officer is not a danger to the citizen. He is an obstacle to the criminal who wishes to harm him and those whom he protects.

Self Analysis by Chirontraining

2011-03-27T15:08:00.000-07:00

Here's a great piece, summing up a few thoughts I have nicely:
Self Analysis
A quote - 'So what are the stupid life choices? Almost all social violence happens in four kinds of places:...'

Just started (on another long flight) a book by Mark Hatmaker - No Second Chance. He also stresses awareness and attitude as keys in avoiding the use of violence in your defense. I will review it later (probably next month).

Until then, train hard and train smart.

Stinger post

2011-03-03T20:10:00.000-08:00

Comtech stinger

A useful 'pressure point massage' tool, relatively innocuous, low profile (esp. the clear version in low light) - I recommend getting a few for friends and loved ones. The Stinger also helps to keep those pesky keys from going missing. A great alternative to holding keys in the fist (which can damage your hand as much as an attackers face).

Long time between posts...

2011-03-01T19:39:00.000-08:00

Been busy with career change, studying, home stuff, training, etc., etc.

Here are a couple of cool links for you.

old-guys-in-the-martial-arts

learn-wing-chun-kung-fu

learnmartialartsonline.blogspot.com

From a YKM brother in the Philippines - with the world situation, maybe we need to look at 'self-defense' in a larger light. I do, some people I look up to do (thank you, Mr. Keating) - it's a dynamic, changing world. Don't be afraid to expand your mind, do some research. The old ways work, and can be adapted to modern times.

Drop me a comment, let me know what you would like to see here on the blog.

Update

2011-02-15T17:27:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the sparse updates - been a bit busy (as always).

Just finished up my 6th 28-day cycle of TacFit Commando, a bodyweight program from Coach Scott Sonnon and the folks at Rmaxinternational. Three more to go, then I will probably re-start the program, incorporating the TacFit ROPE program into it.

The program has worked well for me, and also for a friend that started about three months ago. I feel it has focused my training, helped me to keep motivated, and works most of the fitness/health areas I need. I will add the ROPE program to ensure the 'pulling' muscles get worked, which is absent most bodyweight only programs. Or I could just go do more pull ups....

Here is a blog I ran across extolling the virtues of the Circular Strength Training (CST) - http://hermanchauw.blogspot.com If you stop by, let him know how you came across his site (that would be because I linked you to him).

In the latest Kung Fu Tai Chi Magazine, there are two articles of note - one is about how Hung Gar was used to form the basis of the Nan Quan Wu Shu set (forgive my spelling), and an article on Hakka family gung fu styles, which form the basis of much of Yau Kung Mun.

If you are interested in learning Yau Kung Mun, drop me a line and we can start a discussion regarding the issue. I am looking for serious students.

And a belated Gung Hay Fat Choy!

Jack LaLanne

2011-01-26T17:37:00.000-08:00

Eight Lessons from the life and work of Jack LaLanne

Jack was an inspiration for all involved in the fitness world. Sad to see him go.

There are numerous sites covering his life and passing, I thought the one linked above was very good, humble and to the point.

The lie that saved me...

2010-12-23T20:24:00.000-08:00

I was crossing a very sensitive border, leaving the world's
nastiest dictatorship with a head full of intelligence and enough
hard proof to avert global disaster. It was all going so well and I
was almost over the line when a beefy officer with an enormous
Communist hat and an even larger moustache stepped out from behind
his kiosk and grabbed me by the shoulder.

"Is that a Gymboss in your pocket, or are you just happy to see me?"

A cold bead of sweat trickled slowly down my back. My head was
filled with an irritating loop of "Morning Train" by Sheena Easton
-- that was my mental conditioning kicking in, drilled into me so I
wouldn't panic in moments exactly like this.

I was busted and I had to think fast.

That border guard had eyes like a hawk. It was indeed a Gymboss in
my pocket, but I sure didn't want to admit it! He'd know I was
training TACFIT-style and the game would be up.

So what did I do?

I swallowed my pride and batted my eyelashes.

"Why yes officer, I AM happy to see you..."

It was a blow to my pride -- a Gymboss doesn't exactly make an
imposing silhouette -- but it bought me some time. They marched me
into a customs shed, and when they turned their backs to close the
door I picked up a heavy oak desk, pressed it over my head, and
hurled it at them.

The force of the desk took down all three guards. That thing was
solid! I would never have budged it if I hadn't spent those
precious three weeks between missions building functional muscle.

I bolted out the door and sprinted across the border before they
had a chance to get up and pursue me. And I threw in some evasive
dodges, rolls and dives just in case... I bet that freaked them
out, cause everyone thinks "muscular" has to equal "muscle bound."
Sorry Comrade, but that simply isn't true.

Now I'm safe at home, sitting by the fireplace sipping a protein
shake -- shaken, not stirred -- and polishing my dumbbells. I've got
some downtime, and that means it's time to hone my skills.

Yeah, these TACFIT courses have been a lifesaver for my career. I
used to "muscle up" using bodybuilding style training. But after a
while I got so darn bound up that I repeatedly threw out my back
trying to answer my shoe phone. You should have heard the guys at Q
Branch laugh their pocket protectors off!

No, I need muscle that's as functional as it is impressive. I need
strength, power, size and agility to meet the demands of my crazy
life. I might be scuba diving in the morning, scaling the walls of
a fortress at noon, and playing baccarat in the Monte Carlo casino
that night. I swear sometimes the trunk of my Aston Martin looks
like I live in it.

TACFIT is just what the special branch ordered. It's no wonder all
the guys in my department are using it. At least those of us with
00-numbers.

This message won't self destruct like those fancy messages I get
from HQ, but the special deal on Mass Assault will!
Move fast like the wind, my friends. Move fast..... like the wind.

_______

Aside from the over the top advertising methods, I like and recommend using the Gymboss timer. Very versatile, compact, etc. I have also been doing the TacFit Commando workouts for the last 4 months or so, and feel they are a great way to focus your training time/methods. I recommend using two gymboss timers, one for the warm-up and cool-down phases (set for 6 rounds of 30 seconds with 30 seconds rest), and one for the Tabata portion. Train hard, train smart.

Update

2010-12-16T15:03:00.000-08:00

Been a busy couple of months.

I have been doing Scott Sonnon's TacFit Commando as my base fitness routine the last 4 months or so. Weight has stayed the same (diet has been fair to lousy at times), but I have taken an inch off my waist, firmed up most everything else, lowered resting heart rate and blood pressure. Overall, I will keep on it until I get through the entire routine and let you know how it goes.

Will attempt to post more relevant Yau Kung Mun and other Chinese martial arts related information in the coming year (I know, Master Yoda says "No! Try not. Do, or do not. There is no try.").

Preparedness is always personal!

2010-10-02T18:07:00.000-07:00

From Spike's Place:

Courtesy of Mr. Farnam

29 Sept 10

Important Lesson:

A friend was close to the active shooter/suicide incident at the University of Texas library in Austin, TX yesterday.

She was in her supervisor's office, several doors down from her own. They were discussing an unrelated issued when shots were heard. Seconds later, a police officer showed up at the door and announced that the building was
being evacuated, immediately!

My friend had left her purse in her own office, and there was no opportunity to retrieve it.

Moment later, she found herself in the parking lot, without car-keys, call-phone, and wallet, which meant she had no cash, credit cards, transportation, nor identification. She could not drive anywhere, nor could she call anyone, even on someone's else's cell-phone, as she didn't have important phone numbers memorized!

She lived through it, but she had several long, helpless moments, and she told me that she would never again allow herself to be separated from important items.

Preparedness is always personal!

Emergencies tend to be come-as-you-are affairs, and there is seldom time, nor opportunity, to "get ready."

You're ready or you're not. Either way, nobody cares

...except you!

Comment: As always, great advice from Mr. Farnam. We are each responsible for ourselves and our loved ones. Use the information resources available to you (such as this great blog) and get some training to put the theory into practice.

As my friend Mr. Keating says - Be Trained or Be Chained.

Pepper Spray article

2010-09-30T17:00:00.000-07:00

The Problems with Pepper Spray

Briefly, the article talks of the issues taking a law enforcement tool and using it in the civilian world. Credit goes to Modern Combatives Systems Blog.

Also, if you choose to use/carry the spray, learn to do so properly. Much like when striking someone, you need to be moving away from where you were (stay on the X and he will likely strike out at the location).

You can find more personal defense items at MW Security Systems

Real World H2H

2010-09-24T16:33:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we get too fancy for our own good. Here's some good advice from Death Valley Mag.

Only words of wisdom on this subject: investigate the use of the shin (vice foot) as the impacting tool. Unless, of course, steel toed shoes are in use.

International Talk Like a Pirate Day

2010-09-19T15:58:00.000-07:00

It's International Talk Like a Pirate Day! Avast....

Target Focus Training link

2010-09-05T15:51:00.000-07:00

I have trained in the TFT methods for a long time now. I recommend them for everyone, and also recommend that you attend with others so you will have a reaction partner to train with.

The people at TFT also have some good networking tools, to get you in touch with other reaction partners in your area.

Head over to their site and take a look. I feel it will enhance your current martial art style, and will serve as a great basis for your personal self protection.

10 Travel Safety Tips You Can’t Afford To Ignore

2010-08-18T07:52:00.000-07:00

10 Travel Safety Tips You Can’t Afford To Ignore
Written by Lea - courtesy of Location Independent
Having survived cities such as New York, London, Barcelona, Buenos Aires, Bangkok, Madrid, Rome, Paris, Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh and Sydney, and a fair few other places such as Belize City, Mexico, Guatemala, Budapest, and Prague (back when it was far less touristy), I’ve learned how to keep myself relatively *safe* but you can never be too careful.
There is one travel experience I will never forget…and it involves being robbed of $200 by a group of 10 year old girls on the streets of Nice, France. It’s one of those things I’ll never forget for 3 reasons:
* At the time, I considered myself a fairly experienced traveller having flown and travelled to far flung places since the age of about five.
* The sneaky & crafty way in which they did it still astounds me – but knowing their trick has saved me (and some friends) on more than once occasion from succumbing to the same fate.
* The fact that I was robbed by 10 year old children is still just a tad embarrassing.
Here’s how I was robbed by kids…
A group of young girls crowded round me asking for money and holding out a piece of paper in front of them, asking me to read it. I tried to push them away but they kept swarming round me and pawing at me, asking me to read this sign and surrounding me, despite the best efforts of my girlfriends to help push them away.
After a couple of minutes I felt a small tugging on the security money pouch I was wearing (but hadn’t had time to tuck away properly – duh!). I looked down and as I did the kids scarpered having clearly been rumbled. I noticed the zip was open about an inch and was convinced they couldn’t have taken much from such a small opening. They’d actually snaffled around $200.
Another would-be thief tried the same tactic on me again whilst I was having a coffee with a friend in London a year or so later; our mobile phones were on the table and some guy came up to our table and held a piece of cardboard over the table in front of our faces and told us to read it. Wise to his trick, I immediately shoved it away and grabbed our stuff off the table and he skulked away empty-handed.

Top Travel Safety Tip# 1: Don’t Let Them Distract You
If kids or anyone else ever come up to you begging or holding out a piece of paper/cardboard or something else in front of them, push it away immediately and secure your belongings. This is just a distraction so their nifty little fingers can get at your valuables.

Top Travel Safety Tip# 2: Secure your luggage
When everything you own is carried round with you, it’s of paramount importance to keep this safe and sound. Even if it’s not worth much, it’s all you’ve got on your nomadic wanderings and what seems of little value to you, may be exceptionally tempting and valuable to people in the countries you visit. Keeping your luggage safe means securing it in any way possible, to prevent and deter anyone from tampering with or stealing your luggage…
* Always have a lock for your luggage – TSA-approved padlocks help to ensure that airport security don’t just cut it off and leave your luggage unlocked, plus they let you know if your luggage has been inspected.
* If you’re travelling on trains or you need to secure your bags temporarily (even if you’re sitting right next to them), then consider getting a backpack & bag mesh protector which encases your bag in a wire mesh and allows you to lock it securely to something to avoid it being taken.
* To help keep your possessions as safe as possible in your room both when you’re there or when you’re not, consider a travel door alarm to alert you of any suspicious activity.

Top Travel Safety Tip# 3: Secure your laptop
As a nomadic, work-anywhere entrepreneur your laptop is probably one of the most prized items you’re carrying. Not only is it crucial to running your business wherever you are, it probably cost a fair bit of money too. It’s well worth securing this valuable item with extra precaution and measures…
* Consider carrying a laptop lock and using it to secure your laptop up when you leave your accommodation and/or if you use it at airports, in cafes or other places where it can easily be snaffled from right under your nose.
* You should also consider the type of bag you carry your laptop in – whilst a fancy Tumi laptop case might set you apart from the commuters in New York or London, it’s almost as good as carrying a sign above your head forecasting your “rob-ability”. Try getting a laptop backpack that looks more like an adventure backpack. Alternatively, you could try the Pacfsafe Theft-proof bag.
* There are certain places where you probably want to avoid carrying your laptop around with you. As nice as it might be to go and work on the beach or from a wireless cafe, be aware of who sees you out and about with it and keep it under wraps. You may also want to avoid broadcasting the fact that you have a laptop at your accommodation by wandering in and out of your accommodation with it under your arm.

Top Travel Safety Tip# 4: Secure your cash & credit cards
* You may or may not be a fan of those travel wallets that strap to various parts of your body. Whether you use one or not may depend upon where you’re going and whether you need to carry huge wads of cash about with you. If you do use one, then I’d recommend the more authentic “belts“over the leg, waist or shoulder-type pouches – unless, as a woman, it doesn’t go with your outfit!
* Keep a note of your credit card numbers and the telephone numbers needed to cancel them (but not the security number and/or expiration date). Whilst some people advise making photocopies of the front & back of your card, if these get mislaid or stolen the thief can use the details to order online.You can keep a soft copy of your cards, password-protected on your laptop if you must.
* You should let your credit card company and bank know that you will be overseas – and ideally where you’ll be. Banks monitor suspected fraudulent use and will stop a card from working if they suspect it. Whilst it often only takes a phone call to reactivate it, it’s more efficient to let them know your travel plans in advance.

Top Travel Safety Tip# 5: Keep your eyes and ear peeled
If you’re new to a city and haven’t quite got the measure of the different neighbourhoods, then keep your wits about you as you’re walking around. You can usually tell whether you’ve unwittingly wandered into a different area by the type of people walking around, the state of the buildings and shop fronts on the streets.
If you don’t notice any other tourists and you do see more threatening looking people around, then walk confidently in the direction you came (unless you know a quicker way out already) without getting your map out and head back to a safer, more touristy/populated area.

Top Travel Safety Tip# 6: Blend in – or at least try not to stand out
If you are trying to blend in with locals – or at least stand out less – then on your first day in a place, notice how the locals dress and dress accordingly. Dead giveaways include:
* Wearing sandals with white socks
* Wearing trainers/sneakers
* Wearing a bum-bag/fanny pack (unless you’re in the US perhaps)
* Carrying a camera around your neck
* Having a tourist map sticking out of your pocket
* Wearing shorts & t-shirts when everyone else is dressed for business

Top Travel Safety Tip# 7: Avoid public demonstrations and marches
As exciting as it may seem to join a public march or demonstration, if you’re in unfamiliar territory and a foreign land, then it’s best to avoid these. Whilst peaceful demonstrations may be the norm in your country, you don’t know that this will be the case in a foreign country and your visa may also be at risk if you are caught taking part in political demonstrations. It’s just not worth the risk for that little bit of excitement and camaraderie you might experience at the time.
Top Travel Safety Tip# 8: Avoid broadcasting your lack of local knowledge
Unless you’re in a touristy area where everyone else is doing the same, the be careful about getting your map out and trying to figure out where you are. The same goes for standing in the middle of the road and pointing vigorously to specific points of interest in the distance – another dead giveaway that you’re less than a local.

Top Travel Safety Tip# 9: Always know your escape route
As you’re walking around unfamiliar areas, especially in the dark, take note of specific landmarks, buildings and amenities. If you ever feel threatened, it’s useful to know a ‘friendly’ place you can duck into (the nearest shop, bar, cafe, gas station, mini mart or restaurant) as soon as you can to either call for help or wait until the threat has passed.

Top Travel Safety Tip# 10: Leave your valuables at ‘home’
Depending upon where you are, you may want to consider always leaving your laptop, jewellery, watches or other expensive items at home rather than carting them around with you. Whilst some people have had bad experiences of laptops and valuables being stolen whilst left in a room/apartment, being robbed of an item directly from your person can be a far more unpleasant experience. Plus, you’re increasing the chance of something else happening (like dropping it or losing it) whilst you’re out and about.
The most effective advice is this…if you ever *feel* threatened, but you’re not quite sure why, then follow your instincts and get out of the situation you’re in as quickly as possible. We have instincts for a reason…trust them!

Weapons of Yau Kung Mun

2010-07-10T09:28:00.000-07:00

Yau Kung Mun, being a traditional Southern Siu Lum system, has a wide variety of weapons sets.

As an example of some of our sets, we have three staff sets teaching three different types of staff - double ended, long and medium lengths. We have single and double broadsword sets, double dagger sets, butterfly knife sets (similar in size to the Wing Chun knife, not the balisong), trident, horse bench, spear and three sectional staff forms.

Some question the utility of training with traditional weapons (who carries a three section staff in their back pocket?). I feel there are many reasons to train with traditional weapons.

One is that the usage of differing weapons builds a fighters attributes - strength, fluidity, stability. Swinging a large heavy weapon such as the Trident or a kwan do (not the lightweight versions ala wu shu) will quickly tell you whether you are rooting in your stances, as well as utilizing all the upper body muscles dynamically.

A second reason is for the retention of historical techniques. Look at the popularity of Renaissance Fairs and re-enactments - this is a way to touch with the past in a fun, healthy way.

A third reason is to learn the principles of the weapons (not just a form or technique) and apply then to common every day items (brooms, tire irons, pens, etc).

Historically, I feel that weapons usage was probably taught first, then empty hand skills (similar to modern day military usage - all learn to shoot firearms as the primary skill, hand to hand is lower on the priority). When Martial Arts became civilianized, the shift occurred to empty hand skills, character development, and weapons usage declined (as well as being outlawed in many countries). Also historically, time was limited for 'fitness' training, and weapons allowed for a way to train fitness and skill that directly related to fighting.

Feel free to comment and let me know what you think.

Great Wing Chun link for you

2010-06-25T18:29:00.000-07:00

China Boxer

Here is a site that seems to have a great amount of detail and information on Wing Chun.

Definitely worth a look for southern stylists.

Hakka Kuntao

2010-05-24T14:59:00.000-07:00

Sifu Amon’s Phoenix Eye Fist

A friend who has been talking with me about the Kuntao of "Uncle" Willem DeThouars sent me the following link.

Hakka Kuntao

Pretty good article, makes me want to learn even more.

Firearms Link

2010-04-09T13:52:00.000-07:00

Here's a blog with a great title - "The Thinking Gunfighter".

Looks like some good information for those who intend to use firearms for defense.

(I just like the photo, nothing to do with the post.)

Five circles of preparedness

2010-04-07T16:53:00.000-07:00

From the Surviving in Argentina blog - http://ferfal.blogspot.com/2010/04/five-circles-of-preparedness.html.

He describes the preparedness mindset much like martial artists discuss ranges - from the immediate, 'deal with it now' range to the longer range (but still life threatening), take a breath and cope (prepare) range.

I like to think of martial arts as being a micro version of the real world - the strategies/principles we use for protecting ourselves are the same, only the tactics and techniques change. And when things go south, fancy moves rarely help - simple, proven methods are preferred.

Preparedness Link

2010-03-10T14:23:00.000-08:00

Preparedness Lifestyle vs Preparedness Event - http://mail.myptsmail.com/mercop/blog/?p=617

"Preparedness is like physical fitness, the little things you do every day matter more than the big things you do once in a while."

A little workout every day beats one long workout rarely. A journey of a thousand steps begins with one step, repeated.

From Ikigai - Blogging the martial way

2010-02-19T18:08:00.000-08:00

"Everybody has to decide for themselves what they are willing to risk to defend themselves, their loved ones, and complete strangers. But it’s wise to understand the possible ramifications of relying solely on others for that protection."

Wise words from Ikigai - http://www.ikigaiway.com/2010/the-perpetual-need-for-self-defense/

Words that apply to all of life - don't wait around for someone else to do what you should be doing for yourself.

And a belated Gung Hay Fat Choy to everyone.

Knife Laws in Florida

2010-02-14T19:14:00.000-08:00

Just a link to a blog I follow, for my fellow Floridians interested in things sharp and edgy.

http://orlandocriminallawyer.blogspot.com/2010/02/instructive-case-on-common-pocketknives.html

Media Hype or Firearm Facts—You Decide

2010-02-11T19:56:00.000-08:00

Media Hype or Firearm Facts—You Decide
Posted on February 11, 2010 by Kellene Bishop
http://womenofcaliber.wordpress.com/2010/02/11/media-hype-or-firearm-facts%E2%80%94you-decide-2/

Thanks to Kellene for posting this. The inherent right to self defense should not be an emotional issue, but oftentimes it becomes one. No matter how you decide to defend yourself and your loved ones, get proper training. Training and awareness will get you through life much better than dumb luck....

Link to Low Tech Combat

2010-01-24T15:34:00.000-08:00

From a blog I follow on Google reader - some good points for the Reality Based Self Defense crowd (and all of us who practice martial arts for a self defense aspect).
One on a skeptical look at MA -
http://www.lowtechcombat.com/2010/01/practicalities-and-realities-from.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+lowtechcombat%2FWHwU+%28Low+Tech+Combat%29

One on Pre-attack indicators -
http://www.lowtechcombat.com/2010/01/new-ltc-video-know-your-pre-attack.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+lowtechcombat%2FWHwU+%28Low+Tech+Combat%29

And one on aliveness -
http://www.lowtechcombat.com/2010/01/aliveness-common-sense-or-controversial.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+lowtechcombat%2FWHwU+%28Low+Tech+Combat%29

Spar With The Mind of A Bloodhound

2010-01-08T15:15:00.000-08:00

http://crazymonkeydefense.com/blogs/?p=176

Clean and simple article on the inner dialogue game. Just as important as training hard is training smart.

Christmas fun

2009-12-23T06:33:00.000-08:00

Christmas Self Defense

http://www.ikigaiway.com/2009/christmas-self-defense/

Thanks for the laughter.

I would have added (after each incident) - Tase the perpetrator with your new Christmas Taser Santa brought you.

It would lighten my holidays for sure.

Maybe you can hide the Taser in your new 'Battle Scarf' (http://www.battlescarf.com/).

Surviving Disaster

2009-12-19T15:38:00.000-08:00

Here is a link I cam across today. Not exactly a 'yau kung mun' link, but a cool link, nonetheless.

http://www.spike.com/show/33200?tabId=33737&fxn=getTabMembers - Surviving Disaster. Great job (by a former SEAL). Haven't reviewed all of them yet....

Web site change

2009-12-15T16:30:00.000-08:00

We have finally changed to our own website. The pamcom personal security site is now www.mwsecuritygadgets.com, and a link to the security camera site is now operational, too.

Train in shoes?

2009-11-30T14:31:00.000-08:00

This from a blog I follow - http://www.ikigaiway.com/2009/thoughts-on-footwear/

The concept has been around since I started training (late 70's) at least. Some even call it environmental training. Adding in street clothes, uneven surfaces, dim lighting, etc. And I trained in a very 'traditional' way - remember the first Se Ping Ma lesson? Usefulness was always demanded. Still wondering about some of the crane beak strikes...

Also, some believe that training barefoot on concrete sucks the 'chi' (life force) out of you and is unhealthy. Training on grass, ground, wood, even mats is preferred.

Just my two cents worth.

'Anti monkey butt'

2009-11-25T17:31:00.000-08:00

Knowing my sense of humour, here's a great product....

http://hamptonroads.com.nyud.net/2009/11/anti-monkey-butt-powder-gets-bottom-things

Taser clip

2009-10-31T05:15:00.000-07:00

http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/series/fight-science/3049/Overview#tab-Videos/03296_09

Visit my other sites to order yours today.

'Meditations on Violence' and 'Pak Mei - A Dedication'comments

2009-10-24T11:01:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading 'Meditation on Violence' by Rory Miller.
Highly recommended reading for self-defense/security minded folks.
A few quotes from the book.
From the preface - Never, ever, ever delegate responsibility for your own safety. Never, ever, ever, override your own experience and common sense on the say-so of some self-proclaimed 'expert'.
Never, ever, ever ignore what your eyes see because it isn't what you imagined.

And later - In general, respond to the situation as it is. Not to your fantasy and not to your paranoia.

I will be reading this book again, taking more time to digest the lessons he imparts.

Also just finished reading Pak Mei - A Dedication. Highly recommended for YKM students to get a glimpse of the principles behind a major portion of our arts curriculum. Not a techniques book, a good explanation of some of the principles behind the movements.

Flow and Kuen

2009-10-02T06:13:00.000-07:00

Been away and busy, sorry for the neglect.

Just a thought - I like to think of Kuen practice (or kata, form, etc) as 'ritualized combat' - sort of an 'in the perfect world' situation.

Then there are drills, exercises to bring the Kuen to life - add some resistance, timing, etc. to the practices.

TFT style practicing also brings this 'flow', this 'life', to the Kuen.

Together with bag work, conditioning, and even, yes, sparring, it starts to develop the martial artist to handle real world situations. I don't feel you can do any of these practices in isolation. There is a time and place for partner work, and a time and place for solo work.

Any comments?

Another great article from Mercop

2009-09-23T21:14:00.000-07:00

Thoughts on pressure points and joint locks for SD

http://mail.myptsmail.com/mercop/blog/?p=434

I totally agree - use the locks to break things or to hold for a strike - or to affect a "barter" position, to paraphrase Mr. Keating.

India and Martial Arts

2009-09-23T21:00:00.000-07:00

Not a long treatise on the origin of martial arts and the connections to Buddhism, etc. Just a couple of photos of a statue in Chennai (formerly known as Madras).

Great ideas

2009-09-09T07:07:00.000-07:00

Here is a great view of self-defense - from a conceptual standpoint. Consider the use of deception and operational security to your advantage, also.

Survival Tactics in Nature
http://mail.myptsmail.com/mercop/blog/?p=422

Boxer rebellion era weapons, anyone?

2009-09-06T07:07:00.000-07:00

I received an email from my Yau Kung Mun Sifu, asking if I knew anyone interested in purchasing weapons from the Boxer Rebellion time frame.
Anyone out there interested in hearing/learning more? I'll update as more information comes in.

TASER Issues

2009-08-06T11:43:00.000-07:00

Just posted this on my other blog - www.yachtsecurity.blogspot.com. Relevant here also.
This from the Taser Blog - http://blog.taser.com/2009/08/the-taser-worked/.

The Taser is not a magic weapon. Use it as intended - to temporarily incapacitate an attacker. Then use other means to control the situation (further strikes, better cover position for firearms usage, etc.) or to move to another location (get off the X).

If interested, visit http://www.pamcompersonalsecurity.com/ and buy one (or more).

Mobility

2009-07-20T08:24:00.000-07:00

Mobility - not referring to footwork or stances today.

Mobility is the ability of the body to move through ranges of motion. Easiest way to visualize this is to think of moving the joints of the body in circles - understanding physiology limitations of some joints (they just aren't made to move that way). this also includes loosening the spine (my tight back limits my bridging abilities - working on this).

I have a tight upper body, which limits mobility, and inhibits 'jing' to some degree. Better relaxation and range of motion helps to unlock the bodies abilities.

My YKM Brother Christer demonstrated some exercises - a martial application to what I have been looking at for health. Very cool stuff.

Thanks to all who read the blog, comments/input are welcome.

Links for the day after Fathers Day

2009-06-22T14:10:00.000-07:00

Some really good posts here. Check them out, let me know what you think.

http://internalarts.typepad.com/ken_gullettes_internal_ma/subscribe-to-internal-arts-ezine.html

http://www.ikigaiway.com/wp-content/themes/Ikigai%20Way/students_dojo_survival_guide.pdf
Sorry for no cool photo - been one of those days....

Gorilla Knife Fighting?

2009-06-18T07:05:00.000-07:00

http://www.edmontonjournal.com/Travel/Knife+wielding+gorilla+shocks+visitors/1704496/story.html
Even gorillas are smart enough not to mess with knives. Read the story. Smart apes for sure.

Postings...

2009-06-13T17:31:00.000-07:00

Been a tad busy the last couple of months.
Hopefully I will be posting more the next few days.
Meantime, check out Sean's Blog - Tales from the Carport Kwoon. http://carportkwoon.blogspot.com/

Cool image

2009-05-15T09:35:00.000-07:00

Being a diver, boater, and martial artist, as well as a yacht security business owner, I love the SE Asian arts that tend to thrive along the coastlines.
Here is a link to Wing Chun, with a cool image (I picture it as being taken from above the deck of a wooden ship).
http://martial-arts-asia.blogspot.com/2009/05/introduction-to-wing-chun.html

Say Mun Ba Gua Kuen

2009-05-13T07:51:00.000-07:00

Say Mun Baqua Kuen (Four door, eight directional fist) - Second longest form of YKM. I learned this set from Sifu Garry in Sydney. It is one of my favorites, as it seems to combine other sets and adds some great charging footwork, and is a little more athletic to perform. A couple more kicks than normally found in YKM sets, and some interesting stance work.

40,000 Lives Lost Per Year Must Be Worth It…

2009-05-04T21:26:00.000-07:00

Here's a link to a pro-gun article.

http://www.ignatius-piazza-front-sight.com/2009/05/04/ignatius-piazza-40000-lives-lost-per-year-must-be-worth-it/

Not "YKM" but it is martial.

Practicing Slowly

2009-05-02T21:35:00.000-07:00

One of the items Target Focus Training is criticized for is the slowness of the practice.
I came across the following article on genius, and feels it may apply here. Also, it applies to the Tai Chi Chuan players out there, too, I believe.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/01/opinion/01brooks.html
"Coyle describes a tennis academy in Russia where they enact rallies without a ball. The aim is to focus meticulously on technique. (Try to slow down your golf swing so it takes 90 seconds to finish. See how many errors you detect.)

By practicing in this way, performers delay the automatizing process. The mind wants to turn deliberate, newly learned skills into unconscious, automatically performed skills. But the mind is sloppy and will settle for good enough. By practicing slowly, by breaking skills down into tiny parts and repeating, the strenuous student forces the brain to internalize a better pattern of performance."

As always, adapt the training principles from a variety of sources to what you practice. Try to not fall for the latest fad, look closely and discern the principles behind the techniques.

Mindset article from Mercop

2009-04-11T13:10:00.000-07:00

Have been busy with work and such, not much computer time. Here is an article that hits on a few good points.

Mindset from Mercop:
http://mail.myptsmail.com/mercop/blog/?p=243

Cornered Cat

2009-04-09T16:02:00.000-07:00

http://www.corneredcat.com/TOC.aspx

Came across this (sorry I don't remember the original blog I got the link from).

Looks very good to me so far.

Fitness Post

2009-04-09T15:45:00.000-07:00

Fitness should be one of your goals as a "gung fu" man. The term Gung Fu (aka Kung Fu) liberally translated means hard work. In the overall scheme, I refer to it as self protection, to include healthy living.

Body weight exercises are the way to go for general health and conditioning, in my opinion. Weight lifting is great for specific sports conditioning and specific goals (i.e. "my job is to lift heavy objects, so I need to be ready").

Here is an object that will help you along the road to better health and fitness.
http://www.mattfurey.com/powerwheel.html

OK, this is a bit off topic...

2009-03-28T08:19:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of new links to articles from Patrick Estebbe of Affairaction in Ft. Lauderdale, on yacht security And overall personal security, too. Look for the common threads in all security, just adapt to the situation. Sounds like my philosophy on the martial arts, too.

http://www.affairaction.com/CrewReport_Article_March09_InconvenientTruth.pdf

http://www.affairaction.com/Soundings_Advice%20for%20cruising%20Somali%20waters.pdf

Off Topic? I think not

2009-03-28T04:56:00.000-07:00

Here's a link to a story on mindset, training and a lot of other factors involved in personal combat. Have a short read, let me know what you think.

New Findings from the FBI about Cop Attackers & Their Weapons
http://www.stoppingpower.net/commentary/comm_cop_killers.asp

Sorry for the long lag of posting...

2009-03-27T16:13:00.000-07:00

Been as busty as a one armed paper hanger lately (or is it a one legged man in an ass kicking contest?).

Work has been very much taking my time, but it is good. And the shoulders have been in "rehab" the last month or so, just starting to work out a bit harder now.

My TFT site is now https://www.targetfocusmonthly.com/yachtsecurity - I changed the link, please stop by and check things out. I find that their approach is very pragmatic, and certainly worth a look at and adapting it to your own training and system.

More posts to come. Thanks for the patience, drop me a line and let me know what you would like to see. And check out my other sites, help me drum up some business.

Target Focus Training

2009-02-24T18:40:00.000-08:00

I finally got around to attending a 2 day Target Focus Training seminar last weekend in Dallas.

Had a great time, met some great people.

The training methodology (go slow, no, go slower) works very well on a number of different levels - the emphasis on targeting (hence the name) is probably the unique feature of TFT - others talk of targeting, we actually do it.

I recommend attending a TFT seminar if you can get the chance (or make the chance) - it will enhance any martial art you currently practice.

If you are interested in learning more, check out my website they have created for me - www.tftdirect.com/yachtsecurity.

Saam Mun Pa Kua Kuen

2009-02-10T14:11:00.000-08:00

Saam Mun Pa Kua Kuen (aka Sum Mon Ba Gua Kuen and other variations) - Three Door 8 Methods Fist

Generally taught after Saam Mon Kuen, this form teaches stomping power, features lots of open handed strikes, and contains some very active footwork patterns. Lots of forward, lateral and diagonal movements.

Considered an intermediate set, it sometimes seems to be moving one direction and immediately moving another. There are some subtle variations to techniques already taught in the prior sets.

Note: Sorry for the inconsistencies in the spelling/translation of the names of the sets. Depending on when and which dialect was translated, the 'Romanized' spelling may be different. Heck, I started out studying the Chinese arts when Beijing was Peking - so humor us old farts our spelling flaws.

Lineage and Instructors

2009-01-23T16:15:00.000-08:00

To new readers of this blog, I'd like to introduce my instructors.

I started mid-70's with Sihing Steve Slover, a student of Sifu John S.S. Leong. He taught us Hung Gar, which gave us a great foundation to judge real "Kung Fu". I still remember my first lesson, Say Ping Ma (and some stretches). We also learned a lot about Christian ethics.

Around 1979, I was introduced to Yau Kung Mun. Not as a student, just friend to friend. Around 1980, I managed to find the kwoon in San Francisco's Chinatown, and observe a couple of students training.

In 1982, I finally settled my schedule down (after completing BUD/S) and was invited to start training in Yau Kung Mun. This association has continued to this day. I saw my Sifu, Sifu Loi Lok Fu (Ralph Ferreiro) certify his first Sifu's (Dusty and Billy), and had the honor of being certified by him in May of 2003. I have also trained Yau Kung Mun under Sifu Garry Hearfield in Sydney, Australia. I credit my training with Sifu for teaching me to apply the sets, and being a kung fu man that can fight, not just perform beautiful forms.

Along the way, I have also trained under Jerry Peterson (San Soo/SCARS), Ray Dionaldo (Filipino Combat Systems) and a host of others. James Keating's ComTech has had a large part in opening my eyes to the universality of movement that is inherent in all the arts.

I have trained with many people over the years, all of whom have contributed to what I am today. Thank you to all the people involved, it has been great training with you and I hope to be training for another 34 years.

Saam Mun Kuen

2009-01-22T18:58:00.000-08:00

Saam Mun Kuen (Three Door Fist) (also spelled Sum Mun Kuen)- departs from the traditional cross pattern of footwork found in Siu Sup Ji Kuen, moving at 45 degree angles in addition to the linear patterns.

This is a more active form, moving the body into and out of range, with lots of close in type hand work and combinations. Some large circular motions in conjunction with the footwork make this set look pretty cool.

A Video Clip

2009-01-17T10:01:00.000-08:00

Came across this today. Great example of the aggressive footwork applications.

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=2398257566700849141&hl=en

Yin Ching Kuen

2009-01-17T09:41:00.000-08:00

Yin Ching Kuen

Taught as the third form by Sifu Garry Hearfield in Australia, and as an advanced level form by Sifu Loi Lok Fu in the US, Yin Ching Kuen seems to have a lot of Hung Gar/Choy Lee Fut type of movements - longer punches, more circular punches, etc. Also contains some dynamic tension sections. A very good set to use to develop fitness (one of the longest sets), hand combinations and footwork.

From http://www.nationmaster.com/encyclopedia/Yau-Kung-Mun - "Ying Ching Kuen - contains a lot of dynamic tension, muscle building, external ging & rib training. This is a cleansing form (health), hard chi kung."

Dai Sup Ji Kuen

2009-01-10T16:40:00.000-08:00

The third set taught (by my Sifu, Sifu Loi Lok Fu) in the curriculum is Dai Sup Ji Kuen - Large Ten Pattern Fist.

Like Siu Sup Ji Kuen, it's footwork when viewed from above resembles a cross pattern (+) similar to the Chinese character for the number ten.

The set contains some interesting changes in direction, introduces some more hand combination's and, being named "Large" ten pattern fist, is a little longer and more complicated than Siu Sup Ji Kuen.

In my opinion, these three sets (Tong Gee Kuen, Siu Sup Ji Kuen and Dai Sup Ji Kuen) form the nucleus of a very effective fighting system. Of course, it is up to the student (and for the instructor to distill) to practice diligently, examine the movements carefully, and develop a proper mindset to enable use of these techniques for self-protection.

Train the basics, they are what the advanced techniques are based on (stance, footwork, conditioning, fighting experience to develop the spirit).

Siu Sup Ji Kuen

2009-01-10T06:25:00.000-08:00

Siu Sup Ji Kuen - Small Ten Patter Fist - is the second set taught in Yau Kung Mun. It is named after the pattern formed on the ground, the Chinese character for the number 10, a plus sign.

Like Tong Gee Kuen, it is a fairly simple, aggressive set, very suitable for self protection. The set introduces some interesting footwork and a few 'hidden' throws and locking techniques.

As an aside, many styles use the same naming convention - after the pattern formed. Gung Gee Fook Fu Kuen from Hung Gar comes to mind - Character "I" Tiger Subduing Fist.

Tong Gee Kuen

2009-01-03T15:39:00.000-08:00

Generally taught as the first set, it is full of extremely useful fighting combination's, teaching the student how to move, strike and kick. Not very flashy, but designed to impart basic competence and aggression (forward movement) from the beginning.

I was told it translated as "through the joint" fist, referring to the method of punching used.

From personal experience, I have seen students who had not trained formally for about 15 years, able to perform the set - it is drilled that intensely and is that effective.

By the way, the name of the style, Yau Kung Mun, translates as "Sect of Flexible Power". A word by word translation is "Soft Hard Door".

Welcome to 2009, and a new post

2009-01-01T08:19:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

An ongoing series is starting today - Yau Kung Mun sets (at least the ones I know).

Starting off with the "Stance Set" - we would start every class in San Diego with this simple set of movements. It is a great way to practice the basics (stance, hand strikes, kicks). Combined with the first two sets, you have a very good fighting system.

Way long ago, I saw some YKM workouts in Washington State and in San Francisco's Chinatown, and they all started with the Stance Set (after bowing in and observing courtesies, of course).

After the Stance Set, we moved into physical training (leglifts, pushups, saam sing, etc). Then on to the sets practice (forms, kuen, kata, whatever your art calls them).

If you want to learn more about the sets we will be discussing, contact me.

Phoenix Eye Fist Training - An article submission

2008-12-23T07:41:00.001-08:00

Here is a short article on training the Phoenix Eye Fist, from Sean (http://www.myspace.com/pen_and_sword).

Probably next to the standard fist and the open palm, the phoenix eye fist is a prominent technique of nearly every style of Kung Fu, especially southern styles. It is probably the core technique of Yau Kung Mun, Bak Mei and Xingyi. It appears in Lion's Roar, Hop Gar, Hung Gar and Choy Li Fut. It is considered an advanced technique in classical Okinawan Karate.

According to Yip Man's son, Yip Chun, the phoenix eye fist was a core technique in mainland versions of Wing Chun, but was removed by Yip Man because he thought it was too lethal. The Okinawan Karate sensei, Choki Motobu, used a phoenix eye fist to the temple of a Russian bare knuckle boxer on tour in Japan, knocking him out at the start of the second round.

Before I studied Yau Kung Mun, the only times I'd ever trained in the phoenix eye fist was when it was when it appeared in whatever form I was learning at the time. I never imagined I would actually consider it a viable technique in hand-to-hand combat.

But then, Don showed me how to train for it doing phoenix eye pushups. Trust me, it's not as difficult as it sounds. You just have to approach it with the same common sense you use when learning any other new exercise or technique.

1. Get yourself some nice, thick rubber padding. I have an old palm rest from my computer keyboard I use for that purpose.

2. Make a good phoenix eye fist with the thumb reinforcing the index finger.

3. Assume a pushup position with your fists on the rubber pad. At first, you should start out with your weight on the bottom three knuckles of your fists.

4. Slowly roll onto your extended knuckle of your phoenix eye fists.

5. As soon as you are balanced, attempt some pushups. Three should be plenty for a beginner. My personal best is ten.

If you do this exercise faithfully, you'll feel a lot more confident in your phoenix eye fists. As you use it in your forms, you'll actually feel that you could really cause some damage to someone if you use it against a vital area.

Prime targets are the solar plexus and the armpits, though it is also effective against the throat, eyes, gut and other soft targets of the body.

As Don likes to say, train hard, train smart.

To which I add, have fun while doing it.

A long absence....

2008-12-20T15:53:00.000-08:00

I have been busy as all get out with my day job. Spent the last three weeks in three different training venues.

Will post a Gung Fu related post later (around Christmas).

Here is a link to a site that explains the "Royal Court" of Matt Furey - a great, no frills fitness routine.

http://www.power-fitness.info/index.html

Keep active, train smart, and above all, keep training!

Exercise!

2008-10-11T17:10:00.001-07:00

Saw this in the forums of Free Talk Live and thought it appropriate.

www.freetalklive.com

A couple of martial arts (and misc) related posts

2008-10-06T15:34:00.000-07:00

http://www.strayreality.com/songmer1.htm

Because I like things nautical....

http://www.learnjuggling.com/

To help with dexterity (and entertain the kids)

http://www.wuji.com/

A nice internal arts page

http://www.internalfightingarts.com/home.php?varset=s:415-pm:p

Another great internal arts page, and a fine gentleman

A couple of posts, not YKM, but part of personal protection

2008-10-06T15:28:00.000-07:00

http://www.securitypronews.com/news/securitynews/spn-45-20081001 AfterAirportStopKevinMitnickSharesTravelTips.html - protect the information others can obtain about you (personal opsec)

http://mosquewatch.blogspot.com/2008/10/islamic-takeover-of-us.html
Beware the fanatics of all religions....

http://feraljundi.com/2008/10/05/gear-review-electronic-hearing-protection-msa-versus-peltor/
Protect your hearing so it can help protect you later in life. It matters not which you choose, just use them!

Yau Kung Mun in Sweden

2008-09-30T17:10:00.000-07:00

Please stop by and see the YKM in Sweden blog at http://internalkungfu.blogspot.com/.

Christer is a student of Sifu Garry Hearfield, from Sydney, Australia. They are putting out some good information, and soon will have a few DVD's out.

Garry is a very knowledgable Yau Kung Mun practitioner, dedicated and no-nonsense in his approach to learning/researching YKM. And a great friend.

We have shared much knowledge over the years (I think I still owe him some on that respect) and he helped re-invigorate my studies when I was lagging a bit in motivation.

Avast, me hearties!

2008-09-13T07:08:00.000-07:00

At times, we need to not take ourselves so seriously 100 % of the time.

http://www.talklikeapirate.com/piratehome.html

Enjoy Talk Like A Pirate Day.

Update for the end of August

2008-08-28T21:57:00.000-07:00

Sorry for not updating lately.

Here are some links to keep you entertained and informed.

http://de.youtube.com/watch?v=pbqmXMFuvSA - A performance of an Ed Parker Kempo form - check out the similarity between the movements and Hung Gar or Yin Ching Kuen (from YKM).

http://de.youtube.com/user/streetfightsecrets - Some good, basic self-protection ideas and training. I enjoy their use of NLP.

http://de.youtube.com/user/CNSDS - Some old fashioned, great self defense training. Simple and practical.

http://systemablog.blog.com/ - some great training ideas. I enjoy the training methods of Systema, and many of the Russian arts.

http://senshido.savi.ca/ - some great topics of discussion.

http://hundredpushups.com/test.html - looking for a challenge? Here is a good one.

http://boxing-fighting.info/2008/08/myth-of-mixed-martial-arts.html - While I don't agree with everything they proclaim, it is pretty thought provoking.

http://litemind.com/boost-brain-power/ - read and enjoy. Apply and enjoy more.

Thanks for stopping by. Please let me know what you think.

Training Methods

2008-08-10T08:45:00.000-07:00

More original content (I warned you it was coming).

Much has been written and argued about the "ultimate" or "complete" martial art. In my opinion, there is no "ultimate" or "complete" martial art - all offer something useful (more on this in a second).

To argue between Hung Gar being more "complete" than Wing Chun (or Savate, or Tae Kwon Do, or whatever) is a waste of time. Any art that acknowledges and uses the four limbs of the body (two arms, two legs) and covers the range from striking to standup grappling to groundwork will have the same ultimate end. They must also recognize that the mind (and will) are extremely important to the fighter.

Where I think the problems arise are in the training methods that have been passed down to the martial artist through the years. Sensitivity training (Chi Sau, push hands, etc.) are ways of training the fighter to be aware of body position, energy flows, balance, etc. But it is not the sole province of Wing Chun and Tai Chi Chuan players - wrestlers and jiu-jitsuka also train in these areas - the rolling on the mat with a resisting partner are teaching the grapplers the same skills, just on a different plane (or level).

As an example, if your art is primarily thought of as a striking art (like YKM) - research the movements from the form and start to apply them in a clinch position, on the ground, etc. The core movements (spiraling actions, circular motions) will be there - but train it as you trained the stand up portion - slow and easy with a partner who is also there to learn, not compete. Later after the movements become better known/ingrained, start to encounter resistance, leading to full contact work.

Even the MMA folks start this way; they don't just jump in and choke each other out - not much training going on if they did, only people already trained would be any good. Good partners can help you "discover learn" great things about you and your art.

If your art puts sole emphasis on one training method, you may start to feel the lack of attributes being developed. It may be you have become locked into only one aspect of the art.
Look at the training methods of the various arts (bag work, throwing, conditioning) and adapt them to your art, looking for fluidity and flow.

Remember, we are tool using primates - use them to train smartly.

As tool users, your art should also cover weapons and multiple attacker options - if they currently do not, research the training methods of those arts that do, adapt them to your methods and see what develops.

I did some single stick sparring with a friend, and he commented that I fought like I had a Chinese broadsword in my hand - I was applying what I knew (Chinese MA) to Filipino MA - using my "style" in a foreign training "method". All I know, is it seems to work for me, opening my eyes to gaps in my training, not necessarily my knowledge.

If it is confusing, drop me a line and I'll explain better.

General musings - Stances

2008-08-06T16:39:00.000-07:00

Warning: These are my own thoughts, not necessarily YKM.

Stances - the word conjures up images of old-time, classical kung fu training. Holding the horse stance until the incense stick burns out. Or movie images of the Shaolin Temple monks, holding glasses of water on their heads, forearms and thighs until the weaker ones collapse in a wet pile.

All valid, but what is the point of stance training? It is a subject belittled by the MMA crowd as having nothing to do with fighting, and other fitness professionals who would rather have a person do thousands of body weight squats (on a Bosu ball, no less).

My opinion is this - static stance training develops the muscles in a sport specific way. Also works on the character, chi development, body awareness, and other areas of peripheral influence on fighting/combat. It is part and parcel of training the complete person. It is not the be all/end all of training - merely a part of learning how to move.

I posit that by learning to stand in a deep, steady horse (or other stance) - you are learning to root (albeit unconsciously). As you progress in training, you learn to do this in whatever position you happen to be in (i.e. a one legged position, a narrow stance while standing on a crowded train, etc.).

In my opinion, stances are to be used to impart force/power into the adversaries body by having proper structure, to not rebound off your own strike, and to avoid becoming unbalanced. They are also meant to be used to move your body in a controlled manner (e.g. to spin and unbalance a foe) - moving from one position of strength (or "stance") to another.

Comments?

Also, culturally, there may have been less free time for training in the past, so cultures developed multi-faceted training exercises, rather than isolating muscle movements - not lifting weights every day, 45 mins of cardio 4 times a week, and then fitting in a 2 hour boxing workout.

Other Blogs of Mine

2008-07-26T08:31:00.000-07:00

http://yachtsecurity.blogspot.com/

http://yachtsecure.wordpress.com/

Drop on by. They currently have the same content. I hope to start working on them more in the near future.

Drop me a line, let me know what you think.

Sifu Loi Lok Fu

2008-07-25T16:38:00.000-07:00

My Sifu is Sifu Loi Lok Fu. Learn more about him at http://www.ykmusa.com/loilokfu.html.

I credit him with taking a fairly competent fighter and training him to be much better. I say this in humbleness, training with Sifu brought the movements from the sets (kuen, aka kata in Japanese arts) out and into the real world. Our school produced fighters, and one of the comments I heard from a friend here in Florida was "You are one of the few kung fu guys that can actually fight."

I have trained with a variety of instructors, and all that I have accomplished is due to their teachings and my hard work. A great synergy - excellent instruction and a bit of sweat.

More later.

What is Yau Kung Mun?

2008-07-25T16:37:00.000-07:00

From the Australian web site. http://www.ykm.com.au/whatisykm.php

What is Yau Kung Mun?

Yau Kung Mun is an extraordinary Southern style of Kung Fu, developed in the Shaolin Temple of China from the Tiger and Leopard styles more than 1400 years ago. The name Yau Kung Mun literally means the ‘soft style entrance’ and refers to the essence of techniques which focuses on the body being relaxed (Yau), quick movements as well as being powerful (Kung) resulting in maximum power. The techniques within the system incorporate all of the traditional Shaolin five animal styles of Kung Fu, namely the dragon, snake, tiger, leopard and crane. The system of Yau Kung Mun has been refined over hundreds of years through application in real fighting situations.

Yau Kung Mun teaches that the aim in a fight should be for it to be over as quickly as possible, preferably within just a few strikes. The focus is on straightforward techniques that really work, over showy moves that may look impressive but are of little use in a real fight. Yau Kung Mun also teaches that one must not learn how to destroy without first learning how to heal. Thus, disciples of Yau Kung Mun also learned how to heal through the application of bone setting and herbal ointments.

Students will learn:

* Internal & External forms of Yau Kung Mun Kung Fu
* Weaponry
* Lion, Dragon & Unicorn Dancing
* Instruments (Drum / Cymbal / Gong)

Advanced students may learn:

* Traditional Dit Dar Medicine & Bone Setting
* Advanced forms

History of Yau Kung Mun

2008-07-25T16:35:00.000-07:00

From the Australian YKM site. http://www.ykm.com.au/history.php

The style of Yau Kung Mun finds its roots in the Northern Shaolin Temple from the monk Ding Ying who lived during the Tang Dynasty (618-907AD). Like many other monks at the temple, Ding Ying spent his life dedicated to perfecting himself spiritually and pugilistically. He was devoted to refining his martial art skills, focusing on what he saw as being the most effective techniques.

Through years of training he refined these techniques into a system, which was not given a name. To not name a system within the walls of Shaolin was not as strange as one might think. The monks were well known for their unsurpassed skills in martial arts. However, the temple was isolated and having an effective method of defence both against wild animals and those who would attack them was essential for survival. This need resulted in them opting to keep their most effective techniques and styles to themselves. A style without a name is a style that remains secret.

Violent warriors, seeking fame and greatness, would present themselves at the gates of the temple, challenging the renowned monks to come out and fight. Such challenges were taken seriously by the monks, as not only was their reputation at stake, but at times their very well being. In such situations, the disciples who were trained in the secret arts were chosen by the abbot to fight for Shaolin. By using techniques unknown to outsiders, they were able to defeat their opponents quickly, often within just one or two strikes. Thus, the style refined by Ding Ying was kept unnamed, only being taught to a select number of Shaolin monks to keep it secret from the outside world.

Life for the monks was drastically interrupted during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911 AD). An imperial order was passed outlawing the practice of martial arts and in 1720 the Shaolin Temple was burnt to the ground. The few monks who were able to escape without being captured, scattered throughout China. One such monk was Dao Sang.

In his time within Shaolin, Dao Sang had used his proficiency in the unnamed style of Yau Kung Mun to defend the honour of the Temple against many challengers. He passed his skills on to the monk Wai Yat who taught Kit Loy and Sing Loy. Kit Loy then took the disciple Tit Yan, who became the first monk to teach the secret style to a layperson.

The name Tit Yan means ‘iron body’ demonstrating the perfection of his training. It is said that his strikes felt like being hit with iron bars, with punches penetrating the body of his opponent, causing external bruising, internal bleeding or breaking their bones. Such devastating power brings with it great responsibility.

Yau Kung Mun teaches that one must not learn how to destroy without first learning how to heal. Thus, disciples of Yau Kung Mun also learned how to heal through the application of bone setting and herbal ointments. Tit Yan was among the last of the true Shaolin Buddhist monks. As time went on, Tit Yan realised that the secret style of Yau Kung Mun would disappear with the last of the monks, unless it were given a name and its teachings passed on to the public.

Whilst in Southern Guangdong in the early 1900s, he accepted Master Ha Hon Hung, the first non-monk to be taken as a disciple in the style of Yau Kung Mun. After completing the training of Master Ha, Tit Yan left for Lo Fu Mountain near Huizhou, where he planned to live out his remaining years in solitude. Ha Hon Hung is the founder of Yau Kung Mun.

Sorry for the lack of postings....

2008-07-25T16:33:00.001-07:00

It has come to my attention I am not the only one to look at my blog.

Thanks to my training partner and more importantly, friend, Sean, here are some postings.

They are already out there, and credit will be given where due.

I will post some original content shortly.

If you visit, please comment.

Thanks for stopping by.

Don