Everybody was kung-fu typing

So, I’ve been reading a variety of blogs this week (provided by my internet guru, Michael) that look at taking control of your life and improving it e.g. Nerd Fitness.  Some interesting stuff that look like they can actually make a difference to your quality of life without extreme measures.  As such, I’ve been re-evaluating my life a little, with the aim of improving on it.  So that will be something to write about in the coming future!  I’ve also learned an important lesson this week: whatever you do, wash your hands after touching chilli or it will hurt.

Plus I’m ecstatic to announce that there have been two major advances in Project Atoll.  The first is that I have now finished writing the first draft of the introduction and I can confirm that the first 5 words are ‘You might not realise it’ and forms part of the narrative.  The second advancement is that the first piece of artwork is now officially underway!  Previously I had been negotiating and waiting for the artist to finish his other works but the work has now started!  I can’t wait to see the finished piece and share it with everyone!  Anyway, onto the main course!

*Update*  I've just been sent the first work in progress!  Can't quite describe the joy I'm feeling!

 

5 Reasons why you should study a Martial Art

Ok, in honour of one of the blogs I’ve started reading and since I’ve just finished my taekwondo lesson, I’ve decided to give you five reasons why you should take up a martial art.  I’ve done a much shorter version of this earlier in the blog but this is an expanded version of it.  Enjoy!

(*Disclaimer* These is my personal views. In regards to self-defence, safety comes first.  Unless you feel highly confident and know that you will be ok, I would do what is safest for you.  Your safety is paramount, so don’t try to be a hero)

1.       The obvious reason

You get fit!  That is probably one of the best reasons to undertake a martial art!  It isn’t all about roundhouse kicks, triple punches and hip throws.  You have to get fit and practice.  I mean, what is the point of blocking a punch if you can’t actually stop it or throwing an attacker if you can’t lift them off the ground?  As such, a large part of martial arts is exercising, stretching and repetition of the ‘moves’.  The big benefit of this (other than the whole getting fit bit) is that you often work all your muscles, not just a few, allowing for a well-rounded work out.  I’ve been doing Taekwondo for almost a year and I’m fitter (and stretchier) than ever. 

Keiko Fukada (April 12, 1913 – February 9, 2013): The last pupil who was a student of the founder of Judo.  She gained her 10th Dan at the age of 98

2.       The other obvious reason

Self-defence yo!  Ok, I promise never to subject you to ‘yo’ again.  The big reason for me learning martial arts is to defend myself.  Through working at Tesco, I’ve been headbutt; tackled shoplifters; been threatened to be glassed; and almost went after a shoplifter with a gun.  So, I can attest that it does make me feel a little safer knowing that I can defend myself.  Plus it gives you something to work towards when getting fit.  The motivation of learning self-defence has really helped me when I’m sweating and struggling to do 5 more kicks…

A short video showing knife defence

3.       You can do it anywhere!  

This is a major advantage I feel, especially if you’re pretty busy.  I actually do my training in my living room (including my actual lessons) and often utilise my bed/couches/tables etc in the workout.  You don’t need a huge amount of room to practice, regardless of whether you're just doing exercises or practising what you’ve learnt.  It’s hugely flexible so that you can do it on holiday in your hotel, in your garden or anywhere really (one of my favourite sessions was at an old temple in Nepal).  It also means you don’t need to pay gym charges, so more money for other things!  Like cookies!    

4.       It can look and feel awesome

Ok, this is a little more egotistical but bear with me.  I’ll be honest and tell you that, more often than not, you’re learning basic kicks and punches and it is fairly repetitive (as mentioned).  That said, every now and again, there comes along a kick/punch/throw/grapple that makes you feel awesome and looks great!  For me it was a double front kick and the jumping back kick.  Doing these give you a boost to your confidence and looks amazing!  Plus, let’s face it: who hasn’t seen a martial arts film and thought all those things the hero or heroine did looked awesome.  Now you can as well! 

 Taekwondo: 540 kick

5.        You’re a part of history

Martial arts are ancient and have been passed down the generations and you can be part of this!  Taekkyeon, a Korean martial art still used today, can be date dated back to 50bc!  Shaolin fighting monks were found around 500AD.  Karate can be traced back to 1400 AD, if not earlier!  It is probably a good guess that martial arts existed long before these date as well.  So take one up today and get a real blast of the past!

Pick of the Week 

Just Giving (Michael) - Get your hands in your pocket and donate something!  Michael is running from Glasgow to Edinburgh to raise money from UNICEF!  Do the right thing and give to a great cause.  Why are you still here?  

Music of the Week 

This week, I'm going with Static X - I'm with Stupid.  Enjoy!

So today actually turned out to be a bigger day than I thought as I've seen the first work in progress.  Cannot wait until I see the finished article!  Now, if you excuse me, I'm going to go run around my living room making a noise that sounds like a squeal.  Ahem, a manly squeal.