We’re used to doing many things virtually now – but is it really possible to teach or learn a martial art online? Matt Stait and I have co-written a new book which asks some searching questions about the essence and the future of the martial arts; and invites you to consider whether online martial arts are the death knell for authentic practice, or their much-needed saviour , , ,
If modernity represents a devastating attack on the popularity of martial arts, then perhaps we should consider taking an “Aikido” approach and blending with that attack, rather than bemoaning and resisting it. Whether you like what they’re doing or not, Defence Lab has blended with the values and reality of the modern Western world, and turned these to its advantage, to a stunning degree . . .
“Attaining a black belt is the ultimate martial arts achievement.”
“It’s better to learn Tai Chi from a Chinese teacher.”
“All fights go to the ground.”
When we hear myths like this being bandied around, how are we supposed to fight them, and make people see that they are false? Well for Neil Hall, co-founder of LCTKD (formerly London Chinatown TaeKwonDo), this is actually the wrong question . . .
Several readers have been in touch after seeing the graphic: How to Market your Dojo to Women, asking for general advice on what a good martial arts club website actually looks like. Not being an expert myself, I reached out to Matthew Apsokardu of the Ikigai Way blog. Matthew is a top martial arts blogger and published author; and his expertise also spans website design, marketing and martial arts club operation. So who better to ask for some insights into how martial artists can use the web to their advantage . . .