DOCSLIB.ORG

Psychological Effects of Training in Martial Arts After Interpersonal Trauma Alexandro Garcia Vargas Walden University

Total Page：16

File Type：pdf, Size：1020Kb

Download full-text PDF Read full-text
Psychological Effects of Training in Martial Arts After Interpersonal Trauma Alexandro Garcia Vargas Walden University Walden University ScholarWorks Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies Collection 2019 Psychological Effects of Training in Martial Arts After Interpersonal Trauma Alexandro Garcia Vargas Walden University Follow this and additional works at: https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations Part of the Clinical Psychology Commons, Psychiatric and Mental Health Commons, and the Quantitative Psychology Commons This Dissertation is brought to you for free and open access by the Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies Collection at ScholarWorks. It has been accepted for inclusion in Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies by an authorized administrator of ScholarWorks. For more information, please contact [email protected]. Walden University College of Social and Behavioral Sciences This is to certify that the doctoral dissertation by Alexandro Garcia Vargas has been found to be complete and satisfactory in all respects, and that any and all revisions required by the review committee have been made. Review Committee Dr. Carolyn Davis, Committee Chairperson, Psychology Faculty Dr. Michael Johnson, Committee Member, Psychology Faculty Dr. Virginia Salzer, University Reviewer, Psychology Faculty Chief Academic Officer Eric Riedel, Ph.D. Walden University 2019 Abstract Psychological Effects of Training in Martial Arts After Interpersonal Trauma by Alexandro Garcia Vargas MBA, University of Phoenix, 2010 BS, University of Phoenix, 2008 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Clinical Psychology Walden University May 2019 Abstract Individuals who experience a traumatic event may have an adverse emotional reaction that negatively impacts their quality of life. The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study was to explore the influence of training in the martial arts as an intervention in the treatment of interpersonal trauma. The biopsychosocial model provided the framework for the study. The research questions addressed the effects of training in the martial arts and the biological, psychological, and social functioning of individuals who had sustained a form of interpersonal trauma. Data were collected from semistructured interviews with 9 participants. Data were analyzed using Moustakas’s modified van Kamm method. Findings indicated that martial arts training was transformative and positive for participants. Benefits included mentorship, a sense of achievement, increased confidence, better parenting, and recovery from substance abuse. Findings may be used to promote martial arts training as a treatment intervention for people who have experienced interpersonal trauma. Psychological Effects of Training in Martial Arts After Interpersonal Trauma by Alexandro Garcia Vargas MBA, University of Phoenix, 2010 BS, University of Phoenix, 2008 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Clinical Psychology Walden University May 2019 Dedication I dedicate this dissertation and completion of my work to my beautiful and amazing wife, Nora Vargas, who supported me throughout the journey of my life. I also dedicate this dissertation to my amazing kids, Merrick and Ayden Vargas, for their patience, understanding, and constant support despite their age. Lastly, I dedicate this work to my amazing mother, Guadalupe Vargas, who despite being a single parent never gave up on me. Thank you for always believing in me and pushing me to achieve my fullest potential. Acknowledgments First and foremost, I would like to thank God for giving me the strength, courage, and guidance throughout this difficult and strenuous journey, and for allowing me to believe in myself and overcome obstacles, challenges, and doubt faced during this journey. I would like to acknowledge my dissertation committee chair, Dr. Carolyn A. Davis, and second committee member, Dr. Michael Johnson, for their continuous support, guidance, and motivation. Thank you both for your time and patience that helped me produce quality scholarly work. I would like to acknowledge my martial arts instructor, Sifu J. R. Diaz, from Double Dragon Kenpo Karate in Sanger, CA. He has always been more than an instructor; he has been my friend, mentor, and supporter throughout this journey. He motivated me when I lacked motivation, cheered me up when I was down, and continuously reassured me that I was more than capable of completing this journey when I doubted myself. Thank you for your support, patience, and always being there for me. I would like to acknowledge my siblings, Adriana Rivera, Rey Vargas, Daniel Vargas, and Lucero Vargas, for their continuous support and patience throughout this journey and always being there when I needed an ear to vent. I would like to acknowledge Dr. Tyson D. Bailey who provided me with guidance and help with completing this project. His research was an inspiration to completing my dissertation. I would like to acknowledge my father, Reynaldo Vargas, whom unbeknownst to him contributed to my success and who I have become. Table of Contents List of Tables .......................................................................................................................v Chapter 1: Introduction to the Study ....................................................................................1 Background ....................................................................................................................2 Problem Statement .........................................................................................................4 Purpose of the Study ......................................................................................................5 Research Questions ........................................................................................................5 Theoretical Framework ..................................................................................................6 Nature of the Study ........................................................................................................7 Definitions......................................................................................................................8 Assumptions .................................................................................................................10 Scope and Delimitations ..............................................................................................10 Limitations ...................................................................................................................11 Significance..................................................................................................................12 Summary ......................................................................................................................13 Chapter 2: Literature Review .............................................................................................15 Literature Search Strategy............................................................................................16 Theoretical Foundation ................................................................................................17 Literature Review.........................................................................................................18 Phenomenon of Interpersonal Trauma .................................................................. 19 Survivors of Interpersonal Trauma ....................................................................... 20 Therapeutic Models Addressing Trauma .............................................................. 21 i Tri-Phasic Model: A Treatment Approach Toward Healing ................................ 21 Martial Arts Training: An Alternative Treatment for Interpersonal Trauma ....... 24 Integration of Martial Arts in Psychotherapy ....................................................... 25 Understanding the Impact and Healing of Interpersonal Trauma ......................... 27 Martial Arts: An Alternative Perception ............................................................... 39 Limitations ............................................................................................................ 40 Summary and Conclusions ..........................................................................................42 Chapter 3: Research Method ..............................................................................................44 Research Design and Rationale ...................................................................................44 Role of the Researcher .................................................................................................45 Methodology ................................................................................................................47 Participant Selection Logic ................................................................................... 47 Instrumentation ..................................................................................................... 48 Interview Protocol ................................................................................................. 50 Procedures for Recruitment, Participation, and Data Collection .......................... 50 Data Analysis Plan ................................................................................................ 52 Issues of Trustworthiness .............................................................................................53
Load more

Recommended publications
  • Disney's Martial Arts Festival Qualifier 2006 January 6-7, 2006 in Disneyland® Hotel Located at Disneyland® Resort, Anaheim
    Disney's Martial Arts Festival Qualifier 2006 January 6-7, 2006 in Disneyland® Hotel Located at Disneyland® Resort, Anaheim, California More Information Subject to change without notice Rules are available at website This year marks the inaugural Disney’s Martial Arts Festival Qualifier at Disneyland® Resort. This event will combine the positive atmosphere of competition with the magic of the Disneyland® Resort for competitors, spectators, families and volunteers. This event is open to both children and adults, from White Belt/White Sash to the Black Belt/Black Sash. Whether you are a competitor, family member or a fan there is something for you at Disney’s Martial Arts Festival Qualifier. Martial artists from all disciplines will enjoy the very best competition from all over the world. Competition will include the following disciplines: • American Kenpo • Classical Japanese and Okinawa Karate • Taiji, Contemporary Wushu and Traditional Gung Fu • Judo Shiai and Kata • HitMaster’s® S.T.A.R. Fastest Punch Event Qualifier (Complimentary to all Registered Competitors) • Open Karate including Traditional, Open and Musical Divisions • Tae Kwon do Olympic Style Sparring And Forms • Kajukenbo Sports Martial Arts • Savate Sports Martial Arts • Tiger Claw National Elite Circuit Qualifier First of eleven national qualifiers for the Tiger Claw National Elite Circuit Championship ® as part of Disney's Martial Arts Festival at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex located at the WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort near Orlando, Florida October 26-28, 2006. Camps and Clinics • American Kenpo presented by Ed Parker • Pressure Points by Bill Dewart • The Classical Series includes: Kenjitsu by Sensei High Goju-ryu by Sensei Tibon Aikido by Sensei Funuya Shito-ryu by Sensei Demura Okinawa Karate by Sensei Arashiro Okinawa Shorin-Ryu by Sensei Yamashita Shotokan Karate & Ryobu-kai Self Defense by Sensei Yamazaki Please refer to the list of contacts below if you have any questions.
    [Show full text]
  • American Kenpo Karate - ACT 259
    Department of Health and Human Performance ACTivity Class Syllabus Course: American Kenpo Karate - ACT 259 Location: American Kenpo Karate 2426 West Central Avenue Missoula, Mt. 59801 406-728-0525 Instructor: Chris Crews Overview: An introduction to the martial art system of Kenpo Karate. Students will be introduced to the basics of the art including: Physical principles, training techniques, stances, and self defense techniques for different types of attacks. Objectives: Learn the basics of the martial arts and begin developing the skills necessary to defend one’s self. Learn and understand the application of physical principles related to dealing with an aggressor. Acquire the knowledge and ability to participate safely in the art of Kenpo while training. Develop self-confidence, self-discipline and self-awareness. Have fun and develop a love for an often misunderstood art. Requirements (attire, equipment, etc.): Attire – come to every class with loose fitting clothing or a martial arts uniform Equipment needed – a groin protector. Equipment provided – kicking/punching pads, mats. Grading/Attendance: A minimum of 22 hours of attendance and participation during the semester is required by each registered student in order to receive a grade of “CR” (credit) in accordance with the contractor’s menu schedule of classes. Any registered student that does not participate in the minimum 22 hours of class during the semester will receive a grade of “NCR” (no‐credit). 1. Fall 2014 hours must be attended between Monday, August 25th & Friday, December 5th 2. Spring 2015 hours must be attended between Monday, January 26th & Friday, May 8th If a student experiences a significant event (for example, a documented extended illness, major injury, or the death of an immediate family member) the ACTivity Class Director will work with the student to complete a “Petition to Extend Allowed Absences” or assist with class withdrawal.
    [Show full text]
  • 2010 – US Martial Arts Hall of Fame Inductees
    Year 2010 – US Martial Arts Hall of Fame Inductees Alaska Annette Hannah……………………………………………...Female Instructor of the year Ms. Hannah is a 2nd degree black belt in Shaolin Kempo. She has also studied Tae kwon do, and is a member of ISSKA. Ms. Hannah has received two appreciation awards from the U.S. Army, and numerous sparring trophies. She is also proud to provide service to help the U.S. soldiers and their families that sacrifice to keep this country safe and risk their lives for all of us. James Grady …………………………………………………………………………….Master Mr. Grady is a member of The Alaska Martial Arts Association and all Japan Karate Do Renbukai. Mr. Grady is a 6th Dan in Renbukan California William Aguon Guinto ………………………………………………………..Grandmaster Mr. Guinto has studied the art for 40 years he is the owner and founder of Brown Dragon Kenpo. He has training in the styles of Aiki do, Kyokoshihkai, tae kwon do, and Kenpo. Mr. Guinto is a 10th Grandmaster in Brown Dragon Kenpo Karate and has received awards in Kenpo International Hall of Fame 2007 and Master Hall of Fame Silver Life. He is a member of U.S.A. Martial Arts Alliance and International Martial Arts Alliance. Steven P. Ross ………………………………………………Master Instructor of the year Mr. Ross has received awards in 1986 World Championship, London England, numerous State, Regional and National Championships from 1978 thru 1998, Employee of the Year 2004, and principal for the day at a local high school. He was formerly a member of The US Soo Bahk Do, and Moo Duk Kwan Federation.
    [Show full text]
  • The Martial Arts: an Introduction to the Arts Themselves and the Sciences That Make Them Work
    The Martial Arts: An Introduction To the Arts Themselves And The Sciences That Make Them Work By: James L. Hawkins III Acknowledgments Let me acknowledge those who contributed to the development of this paper. Morgan State University SCMNS Dr. Aradhya Kumar – Morgan State University Physics Department Henry Corcoran – Morgan State University Physics Department Ron Chapel, Ph. D. – Martial Science University James Frederick – Frederick’s Kenpo Karate John Edmunds, Sr. – House of The Dragon Martial Arts Institute (R.I.P.) Dr. Richard Ochillo – Morgan State University Biology Department Dr. Joseph Montes – Morgan State University Biology Department Dr. Lurline Whittaker – Morgan State University Family Sciences Dr. Grace Coffey – Morgan State University English Department The Martial Arts: An Introduction To The Arts Themselves And The Sciences That Make Them Work. I. Introduction A. Definition of Martial Arts B. Examples & Brief History of Some Martial Arts 1. American Kenpo Karate 2. Tae Kwon Do 3. Five Animal Kung-Fu 4. Ju Jitsu 5. Ryukyu Kempo II. The Sciences of the Arts A. Physics 1. Structure and Stability a. Stances b. Blocks 2. Force and Absorbing Force a. Force Equals Mass x Acceleration b. Utilizing Gravity on Downward Motions c. Torque d. Transmittance of Force i. Recoil, Energy Transfer and Work ii. Surface Area iii. Structural Integrity of Weapon iv. Stability of Target 3. Speed a. Speed Equals Distance Divided by Time b. Decrease Distance to Protagonist’s targets i. Positioning ii. Maneuvers c. Increase distance to Antagonist’s targets i. Positioning ii. Maneuvers d. Decreasing Time of Actions i. Biomechanical Efficiency (Biology) ii. Elasticity iii.
    [Show full text]
  • AKKA Karate USA History Booklet
    A Brief History With General Information For New Students AKKA Karate USA-Independence 4420B S. Noland Rd. Independence, MO 64055 816-373-1255 www.AKKA.org Thank you for your interest in Chinese Kenpo Karate at AKKA-KarateUSA. We hope that your association with our school and Kenpo is a long and fruitful one, and that this booklet answers many of your questions as you begin your training with us. AMERICAN KENPO KARATE ACADEMY DOJO RULES 1) Observe Dojo etiquette by bowing upon entering and leaving training area. 2) Address all instructors and fellow students as Mr., Ms., Ma’am, or Sir. 3) Students must be in full uniform at all times while training in Dojo. Exceptions made for weight training, bag work and “contact” workouts. Ask management for clarification . 4) Arrive ten minutes prior to your class, to allow you to check in at the reception desk, get dressed and stretched out for your class. 5) All sparring must be supervised by an instructor. 6) It is mandatory for all students to have a mouth piece, groin protection, headgear, chest protection, gloves and footpads in order to spar. 7) No full-contact sparring is allowed. No contact to the head or groin is allowed. 8) No horseplay allowed at any time. 9) Do not congregate in the lobby or around the reception desk. 10) You must call and cancel your regularly scheduled lessons or your account will be charged. Repeated failure to call will result in postponing your belt tests. 11) Be sure to pick up payment receipts. 12) The deck area is to be used for training only.
    [Show full text]
  • American Kenpo
    AMERICAN KENPO American Kenpo died with Ed Parker, on December 15, 1990. At his funeral his wife, Leilani Parker, announced that Ed Parker left no successor. Thus the death knells toll not only the passing of a great man, but proclaimed the slow death of the martial arts style he had created. In the twenty years since his death American Kenpo has deteriorated to such a deplorable state that only two Ed Parker students, Kevin Lamkin and Erick Lamkin, now teach American Kenpo as Ed Parker established it. At his death, belt rank and fees, the cash cow of American Kenpo, was up for grabs. Who had authority to promote, and to what rank became a cottage industry with more than 50 organizations coming into existence to unite Kenpo (for a fee). Low ranked students claimed authority to promote their instructors, and the instructors eagerly claimed that worthless rank with the promise to promote anyone who would unite under them. Mrs. Parker brought in marginal black belts, "secret weapons," who feigned authority for what had for a decade already been questionable rank. What she failed to realize was a branch from a dead tree is still dead. American Kenpo quickly became a term of exploitation. Honor was given to Ed Parker in name only while diluting his system; and, as the concepts of American Kenpo failed, many of those pretenders began calling what they taught, "Ed Parker Kenpo Karate." Likewise in Europe, American Kenpo was completely abandoned while still claiming direct authority from Ed parker. The standards for belt rank in those systems is so lax, that a 3rd degree black belt would not qualify as a green belt in true Kenpo.
    [Show full text]
  • Gasan Ryu™ Kenpo and Dr. Nick Chamberlain
    Gasan Ryu™ Kenpo and Dr. Nick Chamberlain Nicholas David Chamberlain was born April 5th, 1963, in Boston, Massachusetts. After returning to England with his parents, Dr. Chamberlain grew up in the countryside north of London. In 1978 he returned to the U.S. and began his training in the Martial Arts the same year. Following his Black Belt in Kenpo Karate in 1981, Dr. Chamberlain opened his first school in Chelmsford, Massachusetts, teaching American Kenpo Karate. In 1982, he was fortunate to begin training in Seven Star Praying Mantis and Eagle Claw under Master Lo Man Biu, in Boston’s Chinatown district, and continued until Master Lo’s untimely death six years later. In 1984, after completing an apprenticeship with Shihan Rocky DiRico, Dr. Chamberlain was accepted as a student under Professor Nick Cerio of Providence, Rhode Island. It has been Professor Cerio’s guidance that has been the driving force in shaping Dr. Chamberlain’s Martial Arts ever since. In 1985, Dr. Chamberlain’s rank was recognized By Master Ed. Parker, under the auspices of the International Kenpo Karate Association (I.K.K.A.), which at that time was represented by Professor Cerio in New England. In 1997, Grand Master Cerio promoted Dr. Chamberlain to Godan, or Fifth Degree Black Belt in both Nick Cerio’s Kenpo and American Kenpo Karate. Dr. Chamberlain has trained under Master Ed. Parker in American Kenpo; Master Tadashi Yamashita in self defense; Professor Wally Jay and his son Leon Jay in Small Circle Jiu-Jitsu; Master P. Chan in Wah Lum; Master Rick Beauchamp in Wah Lum and Kenpo; Master Joe Lewis in Technique, and Master Carlos Machado in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
    [Show full text]
  • THE ULTIMATE in SELF DEFENSE Specifics
    THE ULTIMATE IN SELF DEFENSE Specifics KENPO KARATE FOR ALL AGES Contact Teresa Coombs SENSEI TERESA COOMBS (see reverse side of flyer) for information about the Group classes for those ages 6+ program or to enroll. An Private lessons for those wishing to progress to Black Belt introductory lesson will more quickly be scheduled with Sensei Teresa. WHEN: Group classes held twice weekly on Tuesday Monthly invoices will be and Thursday evenings presented during the last WHO: Open to all, ages 6+ class of the month. TIMES: Tuesdays and Thursdays Tuition is due on the 1st 5-6 p.m. - Ages 6-12 of each month. ALL 6-7 p.m. - Ages 13+ payments should be made LOCATION: Forest City Y at the Y’s front desk. COST: Group classes are $50/month for Y members and $70/month for guests of Testing for rank the Y. Private lessons are $60/month advancement and for one 1/2 hour lesson per week for Y merchandise are members and $80/month for one 1/2 additional costs. If hour lesson per week for guests of the Y. applicable, they will be added to the monthly invoice. Forest City Y 916 West I Street Forest City, Iowa 50436 641-585-5220 www.forestcityymca.org [email protected] “I received my Black Belt in August ABOUT KENPO 1994 from Grand Master Charles Mattera, who received his 10th Dan Kenpo is a name for multiple martial arts that from the Shaolin Monks in China. I developed in Hawaii due to cross-cultural earned my 2nd degree Black Belt in exchange between practitioners of Ryukyuan 2013 from Reynaldo Almanon (4th martial arts, Chinese martial arts, Japanese Degree Black Belt and Diane Almanon martial arts and multiple additional influences.
    [Show full text]
  • A Way to Mastery. Mastery in Martial Arts
    © Idōkan Poland Association “IDO MOVEMENT FOR CULTURE. Journal of Martial Arts Anthropology”, Vol. 15, no. 1 (2015), pp. 16–22 DOI: 10.14589/ido.15.1.3 Wojciech J. Cynarski1(ABDEFG), Lothar Sieber2,3(BF) , Marcin Kudłacz4(B), Piotr Telesz1(C) 1 Faculty of Physical Education, University of Rzeszów, Rzeszów (Poland) 2 Sportschool L. Sieber, Munich (Germany) 3 Scientific Research Committee, ‘Idokan Poland’ Association, Munich (Germany) 4 Scientific Research Committee ‘Idokan Poland’ Association, Rzeszów (Poland) e-mail: [email protected] A way to mastery. Mastery in martial arts Submission: 16.09.2014; acceptance: 30.09.2014 Key words: martial arts, combat sports, sport training, mastery Abstract The aim is to describe the route to mastery in martial arts and attempts to identify patterns. What is the average time taken to achieve first master degree, to achieve the highest technical degree, and to achieve the highest rank of master (10 dan)? Background. Theories of sports training, the humanistic theory of martial arts and the anthropology of martial arts give us a sci- entific perspective for the research. Particularly relevant here are the concepts of “long-term athlete development”, “the highest technical degree” and “budō ontogenesis”. Material and method. Material for the study was obtained from sports CVs and by analysing the route taken to mastery by selected outstanding practitioners of martial arts (Instructors, Masters) and combat sports (Olympic athletes and champions). To develop a longitudinal study (for the years 1998-2014) a diagnostic survey questionnaire technique (N = 285) was included, but some of the data was collected by analysing the contents of various written sources (literature and documents, published interviews) and online (monitoring sites).
    [Show full text]
  • The Best Moves from Great Pioneers in the Martial Arts
    The Best of the Best: The Best Moves From Great Pioneers in the Martial Arts By Dr. Carl Totton INTRODUCTION Los Angeles in the 1960’s was a hotbed of fervent martial arts activity. It became ground zero for a renaissance in martial arts and fighting strategies which continues to this day. Many prominent masters of kung fu, karate, judo, jujitsu, tae kwon do, hapikdo, escrima, silat, kenpo, aikido, kendo and more immigrated to Los Angeles and opened pioneering schools. At the center of this activity was a man generally credited for being the first to open kung fu’s restrictive doors to non-Chinese, Grandmaster Ark Yuey Wong, recipient of Inside Kung Fu’s Hall of Fame award. Ark Wong was born in Canton China in 1900. His three primary instructors were local legends in the secretive kung fu world: Shaolin masters Lam Ark Fun and Ho Yeng, and the Chief Abbot of Canton, the monk surnamed Pang. Wong began his study at the age of 7 after his grandfather decreed that all heirs should learn martial arts if they wanted to retain their inheritance! Wong eventually moved to the US at the age of 21 and taught in California until his death in 1987. Wong played a Shaolin monk in the original Kung Fu pilot episode movie with the late David Carradine. Some of the many who learned from or were influenced by Wong over the years included kenpo legend Ed Parker, kajukenbo pioneer John Leoning, limalama founder Tino Tuiolosega, the Samoan giant Haumea “Tiny” Lefiti, BKF founders Steve Muhammad (then Steve Sanders) and Ron Chapel, karate champion Jim Kelly of Enter The Dragon fame, martial arts actors James Lew and Albert Leong, white lotus kung fu founder Douglas Wong, and even Jeet Kune Do and Filipino martial arts great Danny Inosanto, among many others including his grandson and successor, Se-Ming Ma.
    [Show full text]
  • View Our Student Handbook
    CROMWELL MARTIAL ARTS STUDENT HANDBOOK Sixth Edition Table of Contents Welcome Letter Mission............................................................................................................................. 1 Student Creed...................................................................................................................1 Starting Out Right ............................................................................................................ 2 What is Karate?................................................................................................................ 2 For the Kids...................................................................................................................... 3 Dojo Etiquette & Rules.................................................................................................... 4 Martial Arts Development & Code of Conduct............................................................... 6 Attendance ....................................................................................................................... 7 Cancellations.................................................................................................................... 7 School Functions.............................................................................................................. 7 Dress Code ....................................................................................................................... 8 Gi Belt T-Shirts Footwear Benefits of Training ......................................................................................................
    [Show full text]
  • Table of Contents
    TABLE OF CONTENTS TITLE PAGE Student Creed 1 Kenpo Creed 1 Introduction 2 Formalities 3 Ed Parker 4 Clock Principal 5 Terminology 6 Sayings & Synonyms 8 Basics 8 Required Techniques 9 STUDENT CREED I will work to improve my mind, my body and my attitude through positive actions. I will develop self-discipline to help me reach my Potential. I will use my skills with respect and responsibility to help myself and others. I will train with intensity and focus! END OF CLASS PLEDGE As a Dedicated student of the Martial Arts, I will live by the Principles of Black Belt. Honor * Integrity * Respect * Compassion Self Control * Dedication * Courage * Indomitable Spirit What’s our goal? Black Belt Excellence - Sir! How Do We Lead? By Example - Sir! Thank You Class! Thank You - Sir! KENPO CREED “I COME TO YOU WITH ONLY KARATE, EMPTY HANDS. I HAVE NO WEAPONS, BUT SHOULD I BE FORCED TO DEFEND MYSELF, MY PRINCIPLES, OR MY HONOR; SHOULD IT BE A MATTER OF LIFE OR DEATH, OF RIGHT OR WRONG; THEN HERE ARE MY WEAPONS, KARATE, MY EMPTY HANDS.” Aurora Martial Arts 1 INTRODUCTION Most people are totally oblivious to danger, convinced that danger will never be a part of their life. However, whatever your attitude might be, be realistic and ACCEPT the fact that dangers do exist, and consider them seriously. Once you ACCEPT the existence of these potential dangers, and realize that logical measures of prevention can help to avoid them, you have inherently armed yourself with a prime weapon against attack. You must then create the DESIRE to do something about it, have the CONVICTION to begin your study of preventative measures, and instill the WILL POWER to see your desire to completion.
    [Show full text]