Kajukenbo Arizona

Events Showcase What Makes Kaju AZ Unique

2012-01-17T06:20:00.007-07:00

Wow, what a weekend! From a spectator’s point of view…I am exhausted! Kaju AZ students competed in two separate events this past weekend (January 14-15th, 2012) and I am one proud Sifu.

The first event was the “Tough Mudder.” One might think that is a perfect way to describe our students…and that is correct. The Tough Mudder event was unique and exciting and showed a simple truth we teach and exemplify at Kaju AZ: Teamwork.

We hear about teamwork all the time. The media spouts it, politicians, religious leaders, co-workers, etc. But sometimes it is simply all talk and no action. At Kaju AZ we practice teamwork daily in our classes and Ohana events as well as acts of service inside and outside the dojo.

The Tough Mudder showed an extraordinary effort on Team Almost There’s members: Sigung Kelly, Coach Jon, Andy, Omar, Tony, Joe, Amy, Jessica and Cindy. Watching them perform what appeared to be sometimes insurmountable obstacles was amazing…and they did it was a team. If team members arrived early to an obstacle, he or she waited until everyone was present to complete it. If a team member needed help, he or she got it. The huge “over the wall obstacles” showcased this even more. It was inspirational.

The other event was Sibak Nicolas’ marathon race. This event showed simply how the skills learned through martial arts training can help you in all aspects of your life. Not just physical skills – leadership, desire, dedication, discipline and more. Sibak has been training in martial arts virtually his entire life. About six months ago, he set a goal to run a full marathon. He researched and began training. He never quit or gave up and worked daily to prepare. When he was told he was too young to participate, he took action and wrote a letter explaining why he wanted to do this. He was granted permission. He continued to train despite an injury and a couple of illnesses. And by achieving this goal, he knows there is nothing in life he cannot do. In my opinion, that is a powerful life lesson for a 17-year old to realize and exciting to know that this is just the beginning of his adulthood.

Who knows what lies ahead for Team Almost There or Sibak Nicolas or any of us? Through our martial arts training, it is obvious we are better individuals and team members. It’s a pleasure to watch each person grow and reach his or her goals. Just a silver lining of our training, and a daily inspiration for each of us to see.

Sifu Jennifer Corder

Feeling Others' Pain Can Heal You

2011-09-05T14:24:00.004-07:00

"When we generate compassion for the difficult people in our lives, we get to see our prejudices and aversions even more clearly. It can feel completely unreasonable to make compassionate a wish for these irritating, belligerent people. To wish that those we dislike and fear would not suffer can feel like too big a leap. This is a good time to remember that when we harden our hearts against anyone, we hurt our selves."
-- Pema Chodron

Many years ago I heard one of my teachers tell a story about compassion. In these difficult times I think it's a great reminder for all of us.

Once upon a time, while swimming along a bottom of the lake, a school of fish paused to look up to see what all the commotion was about. What they saw above them was a single fish racing, jumping and skipping in and out of the water.

One fish in the school turned to another and said, "Look at that jerk ... who does he think he is anyway, just dancing and skipping across the lake! What a show off ... he is so weird -- it's no wonder he is all alone out there."

Of course, what they didn't see was the lure and barbed hook that was painfully embedded inside the mouth of the fish as he fought and pulled with every ounce of energy he had against the nearly invisible 20-pound test line the fisherman was quickly reeling in.

At times we can be just like the school of fish in this little parable. Life is like one big lake in which we are all swimming, and sometimes someone "hooks" our attention with their peculiar or outrageous behavior, and we rush to judgment. We tend to make assumptions and reach a conclusion based on that judgment, and then we build a case to support it.

Without really knowing what possible pain might be going on inside that person's mind or body, too often we say (or think), "Oh, look at that guy, acting so moody and glum" or, "What a bum, he should just get a job" or, "What a chip he has on his shoulder -- he is really out of touch with reality" while all the time, this person may be doing the best he can to simply make it through the day.

It is quite impossible for us to know what others are going through. It's interesting to note that Don Miguel Ruiz's "Four Agreements" seem to fit in here perfectly:

"Be impeccable in your word ... Don't take anything personally ... Never make assumptions, and ... Always do your best."

The sad truth is, we often judge our loved ones even more critically than strangers. It is a curious thing, isn't it? Marcus Aurelius wrote, "If you are pained by external things, it is not they that disturb you, but your own judgment about them. And it is in your power to wipe out that judgment now."

Perhaps compassion and non-judgment would be an easier conclusion at which to arrive if we could remember that every person in our experience is serving as a perfect mirror that reflects back to us some aspect of our own character we may not choose to or can't see in ourselves. Many people avoid compassion, not because they are callous, but because of their own fear of the pain they see in others -- it reminds them of their own vulnerability.

In its purest form the word compassion means "together with feeling." This means when we enter into compassion for one another we heal all sense of separation from one another, and we allow ourselves, to the best of our ability, to enter into the others' pain -- not to fix it or heal it, or even "share in it," but simply to be there and allow the healing energy of our presence to say, "You are not alone -- I am with you." I believe this is what every person in deep pain, be it physical or emotional, truly longs for -- to know they are not alone. The spiritual truth is we are not alone because we are all one. Perhaps it's time to demonstrate that more fully in our lives. The only prerequisite for compassion is non-judgment and a willingness to share sacred space with another, if only for a few cherished moments.

Compassion heals in ways that medicine and empty words never will, at the level of the soul self. This is an amazing gift we can bring into every relationship we shall ever have, from our most intimate others to the stranger at the post office. Let today be a day when you deepen your compassion and lessen your judgments. Your presence on this planet will make a difference if you can do this one simple thing.

Courtesy of Dennis Merritt Jones (Award-winning author, Keynote speaker, spiritual mentor)

Happy 5th Anniversary Kaju AZ!

2011-07-31T17:42:00.005-07:00

August 1st marks our 5-year anniversary of Kaju AZ and we can't be more excited about where we are and where we are going!

Sigung and I started Kaju AZ because we feel passionate about Kajukenbo and the positive impact martial arts has had on our lives and those around us. It continues to be a labor of love and the joy of this adventure permeates all aspects of our lives. We love the special sense of Ohana that we feel at both schools and anytime our Ohana gets together. Each of our students bring a unique energy and special talent to the dojo. We know this makes a very special school!

Our 6th year is going to be better than ever! We look forward to growing and expanding at our Gilbert dojo into additional space - come on new students! Our Mesa dojo's new schedule adds additional training time! Sigung will continue training at the PIT and bringing more and more material to our awesome CrossPIT programs. Look for more exciting seminars (weapons and brick breaking to name two) along with STORM/SWAT Leadership training, Parent Appreciation Night and our CrossPIT Training Day.

Allow me to take this opportunity to say: THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts – from Sigung, Sifu and all our instructors – for bringing joy, love and fun into our lives. It’s an honor and pleasure to work with each of you! Happy Anniversary, Kaju AZ!

Sifu Jen
(PS - Yes, that is Sisuk Cam in those pictures...and our first official student, Alex Booth - August 1, 2006!)

Our Kaju AZ Dojo: The Place Where you Find the Way

2011-02-04T15:10:00.004-07:00

Thank you to Master Gary Engels of Leadership Martial Arts for sharing this awesome post!

“Dojo” means “school” in Japanese — literally, “the place where you find the Way.” And while every country has its own name for school (it’s a different word in Korean, Chinese, etc.), the important part of this statement is that your life is your school — your LIFE is the place where you find the Way.

Should you ever decide to take martial arts lessons, of any kind, I hope that you would be lucky enough to find a teacher who understands and practices the idea of my life is my dojo.

When a student is on the mat, executing punches or kicks, rolls or break-falls, leg locks or arm bars, and/or blocks and parries, all sorts of things are learned, such as the patience required to polish the maneuvers, the control you have to exercise to do it right, the teamwork it takes to participate with a partner and classmates, and the understanding of the return one gets on effort and consistency. What a shame it would be if we failed to take those lessons “out of the dojo and into the world.”

The real lessons in our school, the valuable ones, are the ones we practice on the mat, but fully understand that we’re practicing for the purpose of making something in our life work better, smoother, and with more mastery. We practice in our school, what we wish to see in our lives. That’s what we know to be the most valuable aspect of what we do in our school.

By the way, if you’re not a student, but you’d like to see what it’s like to be one, just mention this post, and we will give you a pass to come in and try classes. Every great journey begins with some small movement in a new direction, yes?

And here’s a secret: I think, “My students are my dojo.” I learn what I need to learn by helping others to do, well...all of the above.

Gary Engels
Leadership Academy Martial Arts

Summer Vacation at Malama Ohana 2011 Event

2011-01-11T10:11:00.000-07:00

Finishing 2010 Being Truly Grateful

2010-12-16T10:53:00.009-07:00

Thank you for a wonderful year at Kaju AZ! We grew and added to our Ohana, had many great experiences, learned and accepted challenges from our Instructors and shared memories to last a lifetime. Thank you to each and every one of you for enriching our lives and allowing us to share our passion for Kajukenbo. Here's to a healthy, happy and Kaju-filled 2011! As always, Train Strong to Remain Strong!
-- Sigung Kelly & Sifu Jennifer Corder

"Often when we practice being thankful, we go through the process of counting our blessings, acknowledging the wonderful people, things and places that make up our reality. While it is fine to be grateful for the good fortune we have accumulated, true thankfulness stems from a powerful comprehension of the gift of simply being alive, and when we feel it, we feel it regardless of our circumstances. In this deep state of gratitude, we recognize the purity of the experience of being, in and of itself, and our thankfulness is part and parcel of our awareness that we are one with this great mystery that is life.

It is difficult for most of us to access this level of consciousness as we are very caught up in the ups and downs of our individual experiences in the world. The thing to remember about the world, though, is that it ebbs and flows, expands and contracts, gives and takes, and is by its very nature somewhat unreliable. If we only feel gratitude when it serves our desires, this is not true thankfulness. No one is exempt from the twists and turns of fate, which may, at any time, take the possessions, situations, and people we love away from us. Ironically, it is sometimes this kind of loss that awakens us to a thankfulness that goes deeper than just being grateful when things go our way. Illness and near-miss accidents can also serve as wake-up calls to the deeper realization that we are truly lucky to be alive.

We do not have to wait to be shaken to experience this state of being truly thankful for our lives. Tuning in to our breath and making an effort to be fully present for a set period of time each day can do wonders for our ability to connect with true gratitude. We can also awaken ourselves with the intention to be more aware of the unconditional generosity of the life force that flows through us regardless of our circumstances."

SOURCE: Daily OM

The Final Word: Belly's full? Then quit your belly-aching!

2010-11-18T10:39:00.005-07:00

The Final Word: Belly's full? Then quit your belly-aching!

We are a nation of complainers. You only have to stand in line a short time and you'll hear some jerk go on about his sad state of affairs.

It happened to me earlier this month. I was in a long line to pick up a rental car at the West Palm Beach Airport. It took about 45 minutes, and this guy was going on and on.

"Only two agents on duty!" he said to no one in particular. And then I realized the voice sounded familiar. It was mine.

I was embarrassed, so I gave myself a little pep talk, told myself there were far worse injustices being perpetrated around the world, and calmed myself down. I finally got my car and drove away.

But it's true. We all complain far too much.

I was reminded of this the other day when I listened to all those folks on that stranded cruise ship off the coast of Mexico. The ship had a fire and lost its power. No air conditioning. No hot water.

I thought as long as they could hold on to enough ice to chill those umbrella drinks, what's the problem? They even got Spam and Pop Tarts airlifted in. Who could ask for anything more?

But no. When the passengers finally got off they were using words like "nightmare" and "pure hell" to describe their experience.

Nightmare? Obviously that guy needs to travel in the Third World more. Or at least go to Walmart the morning after Thanksgiving. Now that's a nightmare.

Plus, most people in dire situations aren't offered a refund and a free cruise as these people were. They were also handed cocktail party banter for life.

Without getting all Hallmark on you, all of us should look around and appreciate what we have, especially with Thanksgiving just around the corner.

Millions aren't so lucky. The Haitians living in tents, for instance. The Afghan women whose lives truly are living hells. The homeless men on the corner, the ones we walk by every day.

Of course, those people weren't in my line for the rental car, so it's easy to lose perspective.

One guy with perhaps the clearest world view these days is Liu Wei, the 23-year-old from Beijing who just won the first season of China's Got Talent. He's the armless piano player who plays with his toes.

He makes me ashamed of my eight years of piano lessons after which I barely managed to eke out Für Elise. And I was doing it with two arms and 10 fingers. Talk about embarrassing.

"At least I have a pair of perfect legs," he remarked after winning.

I'll never complain again.

By Craig Wilson, Courtesy of USA Today

The Man Who Thinks He Can

2010-09-14T12:37:00.004-07:00

If you think you are beaten, you are,
If you think you dare not, you don't.
If you like to win, but you think you can't,
It is almost certain you won't.

If you think you'll lose, you're lost,
For out in the world we find,
Success begins with a fellow's will.
It's all in the state of mind.

If you think you are outclassed, you are,
You've got to think high to rise,
You've got to be sure of yourself before
You can ever win a prize.

Life's battles don't always go
To the stronger or faster man.
But soon or late the man who wins,
Is the man who THINKS HE CAN.

~ C. W. Longenecker ~

Service Pays Off Now and in the Future

2010-06-28T14:24:00.009-07:00

Sigung and Sibak leave Wednesday evening for Philmont scout ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico. (They will be gone until July 14th.) Philmont is a great, often life-changing experience offered through the Boy Scouts of America, a fantastic organization. They will be hiking about 85 miles over 10 days and hopefully catch a lot of fish. On some days, they change elevation in a range of 5,000 feet. They will get rain, snow, heat, follow the strict rules of no-impact hiking, eat a lot of crackers and cheese and live within a bear triangle every night. There isn’t a television, Gameboy, Computer, Ipod, cell phone, bubba keg, modern plumbing or can of Axe in sight.

This will be the fifth time that Sigung has made this trip since 1999. (The pictures are from their 2008 Trek.) The hardest part is that he is totally cut off – no phones or email – and away from his businesses, family and passion of martial arts. He always misses Sisuk Cameron’s birthday during these trips, as July is the best month to go. The leaders pay their own way and usually miss at least two weeks of work. This is a trip, which often turns teenagers into men as they leave the world behind and get back to basic survival and beauty of the outdoors. It provides opportunities for the scouts to bond with their adult leaders and have mentoring relationships that last a lifetime. It’s quite a special event for all involved.

Sigung and I are often asked “Why they heck would do you do this? Why do you spend the money (it’s about $600 per person)? How can you sacrifice your work and family time?” The answer is simple: performing a service to others has huge payoffs, both immediate and in the future.

Service to others is so important and so often ignored as we focus on our own problems and ourselves in our daily lives. Sometimes it is so hard to think about someone else and their needs when ours seem so overwhelming. This is precisely the time that we must remember to help someone else! Nothing gives us better perspective, understanding and focus than service to others.

I am not saying that one must desert your family and head to the mountains of New Mexico! Little things have big payouts too! A helping hand pulling weeds, a meal for a busy family, hours of babysitting…these are simple things that that mean a lot to others. We receive the added benefit of feeling good about doing something good for others.

Kaju AZ would not be the awesome dojo that it is today without the helping hands of many people! Rides to and from the dojo, keeping the dojo neat and clean, teaching in class, picking up meals, polishing the floors, building our Gilbert school, our self-defense clinics and simply introducing your friends and families to Kaju AZ are all examples of service. Quite simply – there are too many to name! Know that all your efforts are so appreciated and more importantly, will continue to have an impact many years into the future for every single student.

Sigung and I are driven by the positive impact that martial arts has on people. We have the benefit of seeing it in our children who have been training for their entire lives. We know that each of you will see the same impact on your children and yourselves in the future!

For me, Philmont is a love-hate relationship. I hate the time Sigung is gone and the accompanying stresses, but I love the man/husband/father/instructor/leader that service has helped him become. I look forward to seeing my sons become the same service-oriented, patriotic, compassionate, hard working dedicated men.

Thank you for your continued service and support of Kaju AZ. Thank you for your understanding that things may be a little different while Sigung and Sibak are gone. We will maintain our schedules with all of our awesome instructors! As Sijo Emperado said, “In Ohana there is strength” and I am grateful for all the strength I see at Kaju AZ!

Sifu Jen

PS - The picture below is the 2008 Crew and they are standing on Mt. Baldy at an elevation of 12,441 ft.

Happy Birthday, Sijo Emperado!

2010-06-15T13:34:00.002-07:00

Adriano D. Emperado was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, on June 16, 1926. He was born to Filipino-Hawaiian parents in the poor Palama section of Honolulu. Like a lot of poor areas, the Palama settlement was a violent place to live. Confrontations and fights were a daily occurrence. Because of this Emperado started his self defense training at the age of 8. At this time in his life both his father and uncle were professional boxers. His next training came at the age of 11 while he was living with his older brother in Kauai. There he learned the basic 12 strikes of Escrima. At age 14 he found himself back in his old Palama neighborhood. There he trained in judo under Sensei Taneo at the Palama Settlement Gym. A few years later at the age of 20 Emperado undertook the serious study of Kenpo taught by the legendary Professor William K.S. Chow. Professor Chow had been a student of Kenpo Jiu Jitsu instructor James Mitose, and also held a 5th degree black belt in judo. Emperado trained daily with Chow and soon became his first black belt. Emperado spent many years with Professor Chow becoming his Chief Instructor and attaining the rank of 5th degree black belt.

It was in 1947, while still training under Chow, that Mr. Emperado joined with 4 other black belts to develop a style of their own. These five called themselves the "Black Belt Society" The members were: Adriano Emperado - Kenpo, Peter Choo - Boxing/Tang Soo Do, Frank Ordonez - Jujitsu, Joe Hlock - Judo and Clarence Chang - Kung Fu. These men developed a new system that they named, Kajukenbo.

In 1950, after the other four founders went to war, Emperado started the first Kajukenbo school at the Palama Settlement Gym. At the Palama school students could train for $2.00 a month. The workouts that took place there are legendary for their brutality. Emperado has been quoted as saying that a workout wasn't over until there was blood on the floor. He went on to say "that you have to experience pain before you can give it. You have to know what your technique can do. We lost a lot of students in those days, but we also got a lot from other schools, including black belts. These students would look at what we were doing and realize that we had a no nonsense effective system".

Although he was very successful in the martial arts he never made a living at it. Because he taught at Y.M.C.A.'s and recreation centers he always kept his student fees low. A lot of Emperado's knowledge of street fighting came from his many years in law enforcement. He had spent 14 years as a harbor policeman for the Hawaii Department of a Transportation, and a year with the Hawaii Attorney General's Office. While with the Attorney General's Office he served as a body guard to the governor. He then entered the private sector as the security director for a large company. He worked in the corporate security field until he suffered a heart attack in 1982.

All of his life Emperado studied various martial arts. In his lifetime Emperado saw his Kajukenbo style grow into a major martial art that is practiced all across the United States and in several countries.

Sijo Adriano D. Emperado passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 4, 2009 at approximately 11:15 pm. He passed away on Maui, Hawaii the island that he loved and was home to him. While this was a great loss for everyone in Kajukenbo worldwide, we honor him daily by maintaining the hard-hitting style he created. Our students and our Ohana represent the best that Kajukenbo has to offer.

The Corder family was fortunate enough to spend time with Sijo on many occasions. We were able to spend time with him in Maui in July of 2008. We treasure these moments and appreciate all that Sijo has provided for us. We will continue to honor his legacy in all areas of our lives.

Happy Birthday, Sijo!

Land of the free because of the brave!

2010-05-28T07:54:00.004-07:00

(Picture taken at USS Arizona Memorial, Oahu, Hawaii)

By Harvey Mackay

For some, Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer, a long holiday weekend to head to the beach or fire up the barbeque. I sincerely hope that Americans attach a deeper meaning to this unique holiday.

Lee Greenwood wrote a popular patriotic song a number of years ago with lyrics that are perfect for Memorial Day:

"And I'm proud to be an American,
where at least I know I'm free.
And I won't forget the men who died,
who gave that right to me."

Whenever I hear that song, I am reminded how fortunate we are to live in a country where we can live pretty much as we please, within the law, of course. We rarely stop to think about what we are allowed to say or do, or where we can go. We are free to make our own choices.

What does this have to do with a column about business? Plenty! Our whole democracy survives because we have brave men and women who fight to protect our way of life. What we have in America simply doesn't exist anywhere else in the world.

We all have the chance to study what interests us, work where we choose to work, take risks and fail and try again. We sell our products on the free market, hire from a well-educated and motivated workforce, grow our businesses without limits if we are successful, and make a fair profit. We go to sleep at night knowing the morning will bring another opportunity.

We owe our freedom to those who are willing to defend it.
As a businessman who has realized the American dream, I understand that the sacrifices of our valiant service people have enabled us to live free and pursue our opportunities. We take our liberty for granted, but as the saying goes, freedom isn't free. We owe such a great debt to those who have died wearing an American uniform, or lived to tell about it ... is one day a year enough?

Here's a brief history lesson about Memorial Day. In the 19th century, "Decoration Day" was started to encourage citizens to decorate the graves of soldiers who died in the Civil War. After World War I, the observance expanded to include ceremonies honoring those who died in all of America's wars. The holiday became Memorial Day in 1967.

Now, Memorial Day is celebrated on the last Monday in May. Touching and beautiful ceremonies are held at cemeteries across the country, and if you haven't ever attended one, I encourage you to go this year. I guarantee you'll come away with a new appreciation for the extraordinary efforts of our veterans, and the ultimate sacrifice of those who gave their lives for our country.
General George S. Patton offered his own perspective: "It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived."

Over 400,000 American soldiers and sailors died in World War II. Around 1,000 World War II veterans are dying each day. These are the unsung heroes who saw action in Europe, Asia and Africa, and then came home and got down to business. We know them as the "Greatest Generation" -- the men and women who took on big challenges and gave selflessly. Can we meet those standards?

I drive past Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis every time I go to the airport. The unending rows of white grave markers are a solemn reminder of the millions who have died for our country from the Revolutionary War to the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.

I wonder how many of us could survive boot camp, much less wartime conditions. My worst day at the office will never compare to what our veterans have endured.

We honor them for their commitment and service. We recognize their sacrifices, and their families' sacrifices, that allow us to go about our everyday activities. Even those of us who work seven days a week still go home at night, unlike those on long deployments overseas.

We shouldn't wait until Memorial Day to show our gratitude for our servicemen and women. Yes, I am an unashamed flag-waver. I like it here, and I am grateful to those who have made my freedoms possible.

Mackay's Moral: Show your true colors -- honor our veterans.

2010-05-06T11:37:00.000-07:00

True Meaning of Ohana

2010-03-15T15:11:00.007-07:00

The word “ohana” is part of of Hawaiian culture and means “family in an extended sense of the term including blood-related, adoptive or intentional. It emphasizes that family are bound together and members must cooperate and remember one another.”

At our school, Ohana has real meaning and we take it seriously.

When you join our family, we intend to take care of you – inside and outside the dojo. We intend to support and assist you in becoming a better human – in all areas of life, not just martial arts. It creates a richness and fullness of life. Most of the people we meet and train with we would have never have met without our shared Kaju AZ experience. Very few of us are blood related and yet we will go to all ends of the earth to help and love you. We are truly blessed to have this association.

It’s always inspirational to see a demonstration of the true meaning of ohana. Saturday, a group of Lim Kenpo Karate students were testing at their third (and final) testing event for the upcoming Black Belt event this weekend. As in our own Kaju AZ testing, the goal is always to push testers to their limits…not in a cruel way, although to outsiders it may seem that way...but to see what comes out of them when they are at their mental and physical limits.

It wasn’t just the testers that were “tested” on Saturday. There was a test of “Ohana strength” as well.

One of the testers was petite in stature and it was difficult for her to manage the 25 pound backpack that was required to be worn during the testing. Imagine the stress of remembering the material, preparing physically and emotionally and then having to add the extra weight! She was struggling. It was uplifting to see a member of her Ohana quietly and without reservation, holding the weight up behind her. Later, when she struggled to stand with the pack, several other Ohana members assisted her. There were other examples that day…a young student who forgot her material (who among us has never done that?) was assisted by a black belt who got out on the test floor and did the material with her. The testers represented a small number of the attendees – there were four times as many supporters observing, cheering and helping in any way possible.

True Ohana was there this weekend at the BJJ Tournament too. The cheering, the hugs, the encouragement, seeing your Ohana and instructors on your Team makes a difference in any one’s performance.

It’s easy to say we are part of an Ohana and tout the inherent benefits. Visitors to our school sense it the minute they walk in and many want to be a part of it immediately.

True Ohana members are often unsung heroes that support and sustain our endeavors to succeed. Being a true Ohana member is often not convenient, as each of us have busy lives. Being a true Ohana member involves sacrifice and pushing aside our own desires at times. It can involve giving up our precious free time (or birthday evening) to come and support a tester or our valuable resources to prepare a meal for the potluck.

I am big believer in that the more I give, the more I get. It’s simple to me and I want to give more than I take. I have been supported by more Ohana than I can begin to name throughout my life and martial arts experience. Sometimes it was cheering for me at a test. Or spending extra training time with me. Or having a great uki who helped me when I had nothing to give. Or an injured student coming to lend a hand where possible or support during a test. Or a short email commenting on a class I taught. Or a great job pat on the back. Or someone taking out the trash or asking what can be done around the dojo. The instances are numerous….and in all cases, I am always honored.

There is something so special, so unique, so wonderful about witnessing true Ohana in action. It inspires me to do more and be better. Kaju AZ has infinite possibilities of true Ohana each and every day…each and every class…each and every student. I challenge each of you to reach outside your comfort zone, look around and see what you can do to exemplify true Ohana.

Sifu Jennifer Corder

Happy New Year!

2010-01-07T09:32:00.004-07:00

Kajukenbo Arizona is growing! We will be adding another location in Queen Creek/Gilbert in Spring of 2010. We will be offering Kajukenbo for ages 5 and older. If interested in getting on the mailing list for our Ohana and this location, please email sifu@kajuaz.com.

We will be starting a new Hula session for Halau o Kaju AZ soon! Our team will be performing soon so watch for details! Classes are taught by Sifu Dolly Abad. Please contact us if interested!

We are enrolling for all ages RIGHT now! Time to get in the best shape of your life! Contact us and take advantage of our "Try it for FREE" program!

Train Strong to Remain Strong!

Looking Back While Moving Forward

2009-12-15T18:45:00.005-07:00

2009 has been wonderful for Kaju AZ! We have seen many new students join our Ohana. We experienced the love and martial arts expertise of many masters. We grew and expanded our knowledge and took many steps forward in our journeys.

We experienced some losses too. Sijo Emperado, our founder, passed away at the age of 82 in April. Our last visit with him happened a few months before his death and we appreciate the gifts he provided to us. Kajukenbo is a passion for us and we will honor his memory by making Kaju AZ the very best it can be.

Two days after Sijo, we lost Grandmaster Allen Abad, our dear, sweet mentor and friend. Grandmaster taught us many lessons – some about martial arts, some about life and we miss his smiles and stories. We were honored to have him at our Luau in March. We will continue training hard and strong just as he wanted.

We celebrated our third anniversary in August. We look back to our smaller dojo, our first five students and are grateful for how much we have grown as individuals and as an Ohana.

We would not be where we are today if it weren’t for our ancestors. We honor not only those that have passed, but those we actively train under. Grandmaster and Professor Lim are always so willing to share their knowledge in all areas. Their guidance is priceless. They are our family in all sense of the word. Kumu John Hackleman keeps us on our toes and helps us appreciate the small and sweet aspects of life. We are better because of our associations.

We learned from some of the greatest martial artists in the world this year: Grandmaster Vince Black, Grandmaster Dechi Emperado, Grandmaster Harry Herrera, Sigung Kailani Koa, Sigung Aiau Koa, Dai Shihan Ted Tabura, Papa 'Õlohe Solomon Kaihewalu … to only name a few. We are truly blessed to learn from the best of the best.

We are grateful to our Black Belts and Instructors!

• Sigung Kelly took advantage of every training opportunity offered to him this year and passed that knowledge on to each student. Nothing makes him happier than sharing his true passion with his students!
• Sifu Jen loves to see the positive changes each student makes in their life, their family and their community. She loves to see the satisfaction of a new student who thought martial arts was not a possibility for him/her.
• Sifu Dolly has helped us honor our Hawaiian heritage through Hula while allowing us to feel her father’s spirit and talent in her own martial art skills. She gives more than she takes.
• Sibak Nic, after 13 years of training, reached his goal of adult Black Belt and realizes it is just the beginning. His ability to teach all age levels makes him a unique member of our team.
• Sihing Armando pushes us past our mental and physical limits. His desire to make each student better than himself demonstrates true Kaju spirit. There is not one black belt at Kaju AZ that he has not personally helped achieve their goals.
• Simo Linda shares her passion of Kajukenbo and no-quit attitude in every class she teaches. Her black belt test performance was inspiring and set the tone for future black belt candidates. Her generosity is admirable.
• Ms. Candace adds her hard-hitting style to our MMA program, and makes it look easy. Her generous spirit shows in her teaching style and she expects personal best from each student and helps them obtain it.
• Coach Jonathan got our sparring team ready for our tournaments and we represented in true Kaju style. His willingness to compete shows us how important it is to push ourselves while having fun.
• Coach Paul has helped us realize our dream to have a strong BJJ program. His own Kaju training shows his willingness to continue to learn and embrace new styles. He is a great teacher with an easy-to-love attitude.
• Coach Kyle has turned his passion for fitness into our world-class CrossPIT program. His enthusiasm is contagious in and out of the dojo. No one else can make medicine balls fun.

Walt Disney said “We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we're curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.” We plan to do that in 2010.

We will continue to learn and grow and provide opportunities for each and every student to learn from the best to be their best. We want every student to keep their Kaju passion alive and develop new material, fine tune existing skills and willingly share their knowledge. We want each and every person who wants to be a martial artist but doesn’t think they can to KNOW they can do it. We want to make our community safer and more aware. We want to give to those in our community who make it possible for us to enjoy the freedom to practice martial arts and to those experiencing hardship. We want to become leaders in all areas of our lives.

We will be opening another school in 2010 in the Queen Creek area. We are excited to expand our horizons and provide the Kaju AZ experience to more eager students! This will provide many new opportunities for our instructors and existing students as well.

Thank you to each of you for all you have provided us. We appreciate the never-ending support and aloha you bring to every class. Here’s to a happy, healthy and prosperous 2010 for each and every one!

As always, Train Strong to Remain Strong!

Gratitude to our Veterans

2009-11-11T10:01:00.003-07:00

Veteran’s Day Tribute

When America had an urgent need,
These brave ones raised a hand;
No hesitation held them back;
They were proud to take a stand.

They left their friends and family;
They gave up normal life;
To serve their country and their God,
They plowed into the strife.

They fought for freedom and for peace
On strange and foreign shores;
Some lost new friends; some lost their lives
In long and brutal wars.

Other veterans answered a call
To support the ones who fought;
Their country had requirements for
The essential skills they brought.

We salute each and every one of them,
The noble and the brave,
The ones still with us here today,
And those who rest in a grave.

So here’s to our country’s heroes;
They’re a cut above the rest;
Let’s give the honor that is due
To our country’s very best.

By Joanna Fuchs

The Wisdom of Hot Chocolate

2009-09-29T10:08:00.009-07:00

The following story has been circulating through the internet; I am certain you have probably seen it or had it forwarded to you. It struck a particular point in my mind given Sigung's recent promotion and my title change. It's a responsibility and honor that we do not take lightly.

We are fortunate to have Grandmaster Lim in our lives and we appreciate the unique and awesome opportunity he has given us. His wisdom and knowledge and example shows us "to serve our students, serve our Ohana, serve our instructors and worry about ourselves last." That is often a tough one - real life creeps in and can be overwhelming. This post is a reminder to us to remember our priorities.

We had an exciting weekend with the Tournament and Luau. It's easy to focus on all the work that went into preparing for the tournament. It's easy to focus on the results and who won or did not win. It's easy to focus on the logistics of all the little required details. The "cup" was beautiful for sure! But, the priority is to remember and enjoy the time we spent together, the stories, the fun...all things that made the hot chocolate so sweet.

As martial artists, the cup is never the same but that adds to the variety of our experiences. One thing is for sure - the hot chocolate is always sweet and enjoyable - whether you realize it or not! For that we will be forever grateful.

Sifu Jennifer Corder

"A group of graduates, well established in their careers, were talking at a reunion and decided to go visit their old university professor, now retired. During their visit, the conversation turned to complaints about stress in their work and lives. Offering his guests hot chocolate, the professor went into the kitchen and returned with a large pot of hot chocolate and an assortment of cups - porcelain, glass, crystal, some plain looking, some expensive, some exquisite - telling them to help themselves to the hot chocolate.

When they all had a cup of hot chocolate in hand, the professor said: "Notice that all the nice looking, expensive cups were taken, leaving behind the plain and cheap ones. While it is normal for you to want only the best for yourselves, that is the source of your problems and stress. The cup that you're drinking from adds nothing to the quality of the hot chocolate. In most cases it is just more expensive and in some cases even hides what we drink. What all of you really wanted was hot chocolate, not the cup; but you consciously went for the best cups... And then you began sizing up each others cups.

Now consider this: Life is the hot chocolate; your job, money and position in society are the cups. They are just tools to hold and contain life. The cup you have does not define, nor change the quality of life you have. Sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the hot chocolate God has provided us. God makes the hot chocolate, man chooses the cups. The happiest people don't have the best of everything. They just make the best of everything that they have. Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. And enjoy your hot chocolate."
(Original source unknown)

Appreciating the Value of Hard Work on Labor Day

2009-09-03T16:10:00.023-07:00

Mike Rowe, host of the television series "Dirty Jobs" is an Eagle Scout. The rank of Eagle Scout is one of the highest achievements in Boy Scouting and often compared to the rank of Black Belt in martial arts. Recently a Scout's father asked Mike to write his son a letter explaining why he should complete his Eagle scout requirements. It's easy to see the parallels of this award to our Black Belt in his reply. We hope you find this letter inspirational and see the value of working hard and reaching your goals, both inside the dojo and out!

Sifu Kelly and Simou Jennifer Corder

"Kelby,

Your Dad asked me to drop you a line and say something inspirational that might persuade you to dig down deep and find the determination to make the rank of Eagle Scout. It's a reasonable request, from a father who obviously wants to see his son succeed. But here’s the thing. The Eagle Award is not really meant for people who need to be dragged across the finish line. It’s meant for a select few, and I have no idea if you have the guts to see it through.

Statistically, I suspect you do not. Only one out of a hundred Scouts make Eagle, so if you fail, there will be lots of other people with whom you can share excuses. Quitting now might disappoint your Dad, but I doubt that he or anyone else will be overly surprised. Anytime 99 out of 100 people do the same thing, it’s not exactly a shock.

I’m not trying to be cute with a bunch of reverse psychology. When I was 15, there was nothing that anyone could have said to me that would have inspired me to do something I didn't want to do, especially a stranger with a TV show. So I’m not going to assume you’re any different, or pretend that I have some influence or insight that you haven’t already heard from a dozen other people who actually know and care about you. I’ll just tell you straight up that doing something extraordinary can be very lonely, and most people simply aren’t cut out for it. Being an Eagle Scout requires you to be different than most everyone around you, and being different is really, really hard. That’s why the award is called “an accomplishment.”

Personally, and for whatever it’s worth, the best decisions I've made in my own life are those decisions that put me on the outside of being cool.

Singing in the Opera, working in home shopping, staring in the school play when the entire football team laughed at me, and especially earning my Eagle, were all choices that required sacrifice, hard work, and delayed gratification. I have no idea if you possess those qualities, or even envy them. But I can tell you for certain, that not getting your Eagle, will be one of the easiest things you’ve ever done.

Whatever you decide to do, Kelby, it's important to remember that the decision is yours. Not your Dad's, not your friends, and not your Scoutmaster's. And you'll own that decision for the rest of your life.

Good Luck,
Mike Rowe"

For more information about Mike Rowe please click HERE.
To learn more about Boy Scouting please click HERE or talk to our resident Eagle Scout, Sibak Nicolas Corder.

Reap What You Sow This School Year

2009-08-13T20:00:00.012-07:00

With everyone going back to school this week, we are reminded of a column from one of our favorite authors, Harvey Mackay. While Mr. Mackay writes about primarily about business, it is easy to see how you can use this wisdom in your academic, martial arts and personal lives. Here's to a successful school year for all our students. We look forward to enjoying your "gardens" soon!

Sifu Kelly and Simou Jennifer Corder

From Harvey Mackay: "With planting season in many places just around the corner, I came across a garden plan that you might consider this year.

First, plant three rows of peas: passion, performance and persistence.

Then three rows of squash: squash gossip, squash indifference and squash criticism.

There should be three rows of lettuce: Let us be true to our obligations. Let us be unselfish. And let us be loyal.

Next, plant four rows of turnips: Turn up when needed. Turn up with determination. Turn up with a vision. And most of all, turn up with a smile.

To complete your garden, you must have thyme: Time for fun. Time for family and friends. And time for yourself.

Water freely with patience and cultivate with affection. If you do all this, you will reap what you sow.

I've seen several variations of this advice over the years. Even if you don't have a green thumb, grow a garden like this and you will enjoy the fruits of your labors.

As any gardener will tell you, it's important to choose high quality seeds. Plant and nurture them and be careful to keep the weeds under control! The different varieties of these "seeds" make for a bountiful harvest.

Choosing just three kinds of peas is difficult, but I prefer passion, performance and persistence.
Passion tops the list of the skills you need to excel in any profession. There's nothing more powerful and more contagious than passion. Passion will enhance your performance too. When you love what you do, you'll do it better. It really is that simple.

How persistent should you be? I remember when I was starting my sales career and asking a colleague I respected how many times he would call on a prospect before giving up. He told me: "It depends on which one of us dies first."

Moving down the rows, planting squash will promote a positive work environment. Squashing gossip is necessary because the damage is not easily undone. Many times the harm that gossip inflicts is irrevocable. The tongue is just three inches long, yet it can destroy a person six feet tall.
Squash indifference or prepare to lose all your customers. Similarly, squash criticism that is not constructive or offered in a useful spirit.

The lettuce rows allow our real character to bloom. Honoring your obligations represents a commitment to your word that customers expect and appreciate. Unselfishness is fundamental to good human relations. I recently wrote that loyalty is one of the first qualities that I look for in both employees and friends. Someone can be a great worker, but if he or she isn't loyal, their employment puts the company in jeopardy.

When I plant turnips, I think about how many times people have turned up when I needed them, and I try to return the favor. I am determined to help . . . and I am determined to get the job done. Vision doesn't do the planning and it doesn't anticipate the obstacles. It gives a real idea of what is possible, if only you want it bad enough.

And while a smile may not seem like an important variety of turnips, let me assure you, a smile is one of the most powerful things you can do to have influence over others. That's why I never underestimate the value of a smile. It should be standard equipment for all people.

Thyme is among the trickiest seeds to grow. If you're like the average American, you devote 56 hours a week to work, including commuting; 70 hours to sleeping, eating and other personal care; and 42 hours to leisure activities, of which 16 hours are spent socializing with friends and family. WOW. That's not much personal time.

Remember, the width of life is as important as the length. This is just a short reminder to all of us working so hard for our living. Don't let time slip through your fingers without spending some quality time with those who really matter.

Finally, you have to have fun. I often write about working hard, and it's possible to really love what you do. Even then, you need to branch out to truly blossom.

Mackay's Moral: Don't be afraid of growing slowly, be only afraid of standing still."

Some Simple Truths of Martial Arts

2009-07-15T15:05:00.005-07:00

(Sibak and Sisuk, 2002)

What a great weekend for Kaju AZ! Our school was well-represented at the BJJ and KSDI tournaments and it is so awesome to see the hard work and pride that each competitor demonstrated.

I have always loved karate. Growing up in Arizona, every Saturday morning was the “Channel 5 Action Movie” and I loved watching the Bruce Lee movies and good old-fashioned fight scenes in westerns. Then, I just loved the hitting and action. Now, as a martial artist, mother and Simou, I can appreciate all that martial arts can offer. And I have learned some “simple truths” about it as well.

Martial Arts is More Than Hitting. I am amazed at the mental and social development that I see each and every day. Nothing makes me happier than a child who develops and improves by shaking hands to adults and fellow students. I love seeing the confidence grow in a painfully shy young student. It is great to hear how a student stood up to a potential bully or an improvement in scholastic ability or school behavior. Seeing our students demonstrate respect, courtesy and good sportsmanship at tournaments creates a warm and fuzzy feeling. And it’s contagious! TRUTH: The social, mental and spiritual development is a bonus.

Martial Arts is More Than Mental Strength. In summary: It’s Karate, not knitting. At the Vegas event, I witnessed a green belt sparring match. One competitor got hit in the face (face contact is allowed). He balled up into the fetal position, sobbing and held up the match for almost 10 minutes. There was no blood that I could see, no protruding bones, not even a red mark. What was most disturbing to me was the thought that this green belt would possibly react this way, on the street in a self-defense situation. We say it over and over again but it is true: the way you train is the way you fight. I appreciate all the hits I have taken over the years. TRUTH: Be prepared to take a hit, take it well, get up and keep fighting.

Martial Arts is a Way of Life. One thing I have learned: The posers always surface. I used to train with someone who always said “Fake it until you make it.” She did not make it. I have seen fakers that make it up the ladder, but are they good people? NO and they eventually leave under false pretenses anyway. Students will come and go (even the higher belts), but the principles and skills taught at Kaju AZ will NEVER change. It’s what makes those of us who maintain the standards of our instructors and Kaju ancestors better in all ways. That doesn’t only apply to the students of Kaju AZ…we see it every day with our supporting Ohana. All the parents that bring their children, wash their uniforms, bring the potluck dishes, and are always patting us on the back – it’s all part of the Ohana way of life. For those parents or students who are struggling - have faith and stick with it as it is worth it. TRUTH: We are in this together – thank heavens!

Martial Arts Requires Giving More than Taking. There is no possible way for me to ever repay all that I have received from my instructor, his instructors, mentors and inspirational guides not to even mention and all the countless hours that go into each and every event, email, telephone call and class. This is not overwhelming to me because I know that as I attempt to give back to those around me – my family, my students, my community – that I am making a big difference in little ways. Most people don’t see that when they take their first karate class, you just learn it as you go. Think about the impact our little school would have on Mesa, Arizona, the US and the World, if we all gave more than we took. TRUTH: Giving feels great and makes us better people.

To be honest, I wanted my kids to do martial arts because I thought it would be cool. And it is. I can’t help but feel proud of their accomplishments and those of each and every student. But the bigger picture was more than I could have ever dreamed for my family. As the body, mind and spirit become one, our Ohana is stronger and life is just plain better.

Simou Jennifer Corder

Good Luck, Christie Gallo!

2009-07-07T19:55:00.005-07:00

MMA student Christie Gallo is off to the Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York this week. As a member of STORM (Special Team of Role Models) she has been able to teach and assist and continue to grow as a student. Christie is an outstanding young woman who is always juggling many activities and responsibilities and maintains a high-level of integrity at all times.

Christie has been training with Kaju AZ for over two years and has worked hard to attain the rank of Red Belt. Her last test was especially inspirational as she was battling the flu throughout the entire pre-test and test. She never quit or complained and showed a true Black Belt Attitude. She has also recently learned the katana from Sibak Nic and will continue training during school breaks and holidays trips home as her goal is black belt. We all know she has all the Desire, Dedication and Discipline to do it!

Christie is always smiling, energetic and a pleasure to train with and we are excited for her new adventure. The Academy will definitely benefit from her skills and willingness to give back. She doesn’t just say it – she does it! We will miss her no-quit attitude and Kajukenbo spirit, but know she will always be a part of our Ohana.

Good luck, Christie and thanks for all the high kicks, hard hits, and great memories!

(For any of you that want to keep in touch with Christie, see Simou for her new address.)

Team Hicks Breaks Records at Mt. Kili!

2009-07-07T16:17:00.007-07:00

At 1:00 am AZ time, June 29th, 2009 Team Hicks made it to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro and broke two world records -- the largest group of blind climbers as well as the the youngest blind climber (13 years old) to accomplish this amazing feat.

Sibak Tom arrived home on July 2nd and shared these comments with Professor and Aunty Lim:

"Our Ohana's presence at the airport send off and homecoming inspired our entire team. ... I love our Ohana so much. Many times in the past couple of weeks I was inspired by thoughts of each of you. I felt you on the mountain. I never thought of quitting or giving up and I always felt protected by your prayers and positive energy... On Kilimanjaro Team Hicks never lost focus, never fell apart, and we were the first to touch the 19,340 feet summit sign! As we made our way toward the summit all I thought of was all our Ohana praying for us. I never got a blister. I was the only blind climber to not hold on to my guides. I ascended and descended the same way. I wanted to trek independently, using my trekking poles, make my way up God's mountain! He allowed me this gift. I am so proud and am still just enjoying the memories on the great Kilimanjaro! Kili did not devour my soul. We respected her completely and faced our fears with humility every day. I feel changed forever for the incredible experience! ...

Very Respectfully,

Tom"

The Face of Determination

2009-06-15T19:41:00.004-07:00

Aloha Everyone!

Most of you know about the incredible journey Sibak Tom Hicks will be taking soon. What many of you may not realize is he has been preparing for this for the past year. Tom called me in May of 2008 to let me know he was one of 8 or 9 blind climbers chosen to hike to the summit of Kilimanjaro. I was so excited for him, thinking about what an incredible story he was going to be able to tell after he accomplishes this feat but even I didn't realize what was ahead for Tom! He has spent many, many weekends hiking the mountains all over Arizona (sometimes hiking them twice in one weekend !) to physically prepare.

Try to imagine doing this after working all week long, taking care of his family, squeezing in three black belt tests & traveling to give speeches to organizations to raise funds for the Foundation for Blind Children! Try to imagine the sacrifices his wife & the rest of his family have made-driving him to these mountains before the sun comes up & being there to pick him up afterward (many of these hikes were done over night because it was too hot here in Arizona to hike during the day), dealing with his injuries & worrying about him getting hurt.

I apologize if any of you are "getting this" mid-stream, but I did make a promise to all of you to keep you updated on Tom's unbelieveable journey. I just can not imagine NOT sharing it with all of our `Ohana! Tom leaves for Tanzania on Saturday, June 20th.*

Think about Tom the next time you think you are having a bad day.

Professor George & Aunty Patrice Lim

*Contact Simou Jen at 480-755-3008 or simou@kajuaz.com if you are interested in being at Sibak's airport Bon Voyage on the 2oth.

Thank You, Sijo Emperado

2009-05-29T09:07:00.013-07:00

In 1947, Sijo Emperado and four other black belt masters created the art of Kajukenbo. Imagine the difficulties for masters in various arts to come together bringing their knowledge and expertise to create something even better than what they each had individually. I often think about the humility that each of the founders had in order to be able to work together and create something so new, unique, and powerful. Yet they had a certain arrogance that allowed them to rise to the challenge and create what is known as the first mixed martial art.

Last weekend I had the opportunity to represent Kajukenbo Arizona at Sijo Emperado’s memorial service in Maui. Sigung's Kailani and Aiau Koa did a wonderful job to coordinate the memorial. They performed a Haka that was created especially for the memorial. They recognized the several Grand Masters that were in attendance. They allowed the family time to pay the respects and then allowed the 200 or so Kajukenbo Ohana members to pay their respects. There was time given to the Grand Masters to speak and share memories and express appreciation for Sijo. The pastor spoke about Ohana and the importance of us remembering and respecting. The reception had an unbelievable amount of good food. I think everyone in attendance could appreciate the good feelings and the good Ohana spirit. Thank you for making that happen!

Sijo's legacy will have a profound effect on my life forever. Doing what I love as an Instructor of Kajukenbo, having my wife and family share in this experience and having all the vast and varied experiences and relationships are all reasons for me to be forever grateful to Sijo Emperado.

The previous weekend was spent at a memorial to Grandmaster Allen Abad. Grandmaster was Professor Lim’s mentor and I was very fortunate to spend time with him as he lived nearby and taught Tai Chi at our school on weekends. I met him around 12 years ago and was impressed with his attitude regarding life. His technique was often described as watching "liquid fire." I was blessed to have been his uki a number of times and was always impressed that although he was a small man, he hit like a giant. He outlived the doctor’s expectations and towards the end of his life, I cherished the unexpected visits to the school during class. It is sad to no longer have such a fine mentor among us. His spirit will always be reflected in the lives of those he touched.

During my Maui weekend, I had the pleasure of spending time with Papa Sol Kaihewalu. We spent time discussing his life experiences. He has quite an amazing history and is full of stories and facts about the people and places surrounding the Hawaiian martial arts. He has been married for 50 years and has been training since he was very young. He has a great attitude and perspective. I especially appreciated the fact that he has had many experiences with Grandmaster Abad, Professor Lim and other masters.

In all these events, it was great hearing all the life and martial art stories. I challenge our students to learn our history, and never forget their own. Talk to your instructors and mentors – don't waste precious time and don’t be shy! Most masters will be happy to share their experiences with you. Take advantage of these golden opportunities while you can!

During Sijo's memorial, a lot of people expressed their gratitude to Sijo for creating such a powerful martial art. Kajukenbo is truly the first mixed martial art and it is also the first original American martial art. What a gift we have in Kajukenbo - it is a powerful, beautiful martial art. We should all be grateful! I had much time to reflect about the various instructors I have had (even those that I do not currently train with) and how I can better show my gratitude for the art.

Because knowledge of the art is priceless, it is very difficult to pay back my instructors for their time and knowledge. In fact, it is impossible. Yes, I paid the monthly fees for my training but there’s something more to it. I believe that it’s about what I can do for others using the skills and the principles that I have been taught. For both students and instructors, showing gratitude comes in several forms.

Students and instructors should show our gratitude to our instructors by the time we spend in service to the school, time with each and every student and the time we spend with the instructors and mentors above us. We should, when called upon, send cards, gifts, flowers, and donations, as they are needed. We should support events by attending even if we cannot perform. Many times I have paid for a seminar although I was not able to attend. I do this to support their efforts even if I do not personally benefit. It's worth it to help keep their legacy alive.

I truly believe that the proper way to show respect from student to instructor is by attendance, attention, commitment, service to the school and the fellow students, and by showing gratitude at every opportunity, such as showing up at tests even when you are not getting promoted, helping out when possible, and not expecting to always be paid back in kind.

Professor Lim shared a story recently: Private lessons were 30 minutes each and a student was attending and pay for these on a regular basis. The instructor was never greedy with his time and most of the lessons lasted an hour long, even though the student was paying for only 30 minutes. One day, due to a previous commitment, the instructor had to conclude the lesson after 26 minutes. The student looked at the clock and said, “I believe I still have 4 more minutes left.”

Take stock of where you are at in your martial arts training – are you helping someone or are you expecting something? Are you showing up for the glory and being absent during the rough patches? Is your training all about you? Are you focused only on your next milestone?

Are we this kind of student to our instructors? Do we take more than we give, and then expect more? Or do we give more than we take which allows us to gain even more beyond our expectations?

The art of Kajukenbo is strong, and it will get stronger as we grow and work hard together and perfect our skills and knowledge. It grows stronger as we strengthen those around us and become the proper ambassadors of the art. It is always important to remember that we are examples to everyone around us, whether we realize it or not. To me, it is just seems easier to be a good example all the time. It is definitely a goal I strive for daily.

Train Strong To Remain Strong and be grateful for all that blesses your life.

Sifu Kelly Corder

Saying Goodbye To Grandmaster Abad

2009-05-20T13:10:00.006-07:00

Grandmaster Allen Abad said, "Your life is your true testament to your skills as a martial artist, not your rank or trophies."

Thank you for leaving a part of your legacy at Kajukenbo Arizona. We miss you!

CrossPIT Training Day at Kaju AZ!

2009-05-04T08:18:00.006-07:00

Our 2nd CrossPIT training day was awesome! Participants of a wide range of age and skill levels completed over 50 activities in less than three hours. Every one left exhausted, smiling and feeling a true sense of accomplishment. Be sure and check out the pictures by clicking HERE.

Thank you to all participants for attending and being a part of our event. It was great that you shared the CrossPIT experience with your friends and family. Your willingness to invite others demonstrates how valuable this unique training is to each of you.

A special thanks to all our coaches: Sihing Armando Franco, Ms. Linda George, Mr. Marc Hernandez, Ms. Candace Hisatake, Coach Paul Nava, Coach Kyle Miller, David Booth, Andy Blatnick, Lorenzo Ikner, Heather Buffington, Jennifer Roberts, Jessica Blatnick, Sifu Diana Joy and Derald Mullenaux! Our event would not be possible without their support. It makes a huge difference to have enthusiastic coaches cheering!

It shows an act of true Ohana spirit for each coach to not only pay the registration fee but also sacrifice their time and energy to make the event a success. Thank you Coaches - the results prove it was a worthwhile effort.

As always, mahalo nui loa to the Lim Kenpo Ohana for their dedication and support of all our Kaju AZ events. We can always count on Professor and Aunty Lim's students to be energetic, disciplined and willing to work hard. Great job!

A very special thanks to Kumu John Hackleman for developing this innovative conditioning and training system. Kaju AZ and our community is better for it!

Our next CrossPIT Training Day is Saturday, November 21st BUT don't forget: you can train in CrossPIT every day either at Kaju AZ or at your own school!

Thanks again for a wonderful day! As always, train strong to remain strong!

Sifu Kelly and Simou Jen

Kaju AZ Student Heather Buffington Crusades Against Breast Cancer

2009-04-15T12:53:00.004-07:00

(Heather Buffington and her Kaju AZ team!)

Dear Kaju AZ Ohana:

As many of you know, my life has been touched by breast cancer. My natural mother passed away from it many years ago, and I have had a couple of "scares" in my young life. I have a daughter and a son that both have a very real potential of contracting the disease. Because of this and for the many people I have met in my life that have either survived breast cancer or lost someone they loved to it, this year, I'll be participating in a very special event called the Breast Cancer 3-Day. I'll walk 60 miles over the course of three days with thousands of other women and men. The net proceeds will support breast cancer research, education, screening and treatment through Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund.

I've agreed to raise at least $2300.00 in donations. So I need your help. Would you please consider making a donation of $50.00 or more? Keep in mind how far I'm walking - and how hard I'll have to train. You can donate online HERE. You can also call 800.996.3DAY to donate over the phone.

According to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, more than 200,000 American women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, and nearly 40,000 will die from the disease. That’s why I’m walking so far. To do something bold about breast cancer. I hope that you'll share this incredible adventure with me by supporting me in my fundraising efforts.

Thank you in advance for your generosity!

Sincerely,
Heather Jean Buffington

Another Loss to Kajukenbo: Grandmaster Allen Abad

2009-04-07T08:53:00.009-07:00

Grandmaster Allen Abad, Kajukenbo practitioner, dear friend and mentor to Kajukenbo Arizona, passed away about 9 pm on Monday, April 6th. He battled pancreatic cancer with dignity for the past two years.

Grandmaster was an inspiring martial artist that was always quick to smile and share his knowledge. His techniques and movements were often described as "liquid fire." He was a faithful and loyal member of the Kajukenbo Ohana.

We were honored to have him at our Ohana Luau and Black Belt Promotion on March 21, 2009. We appreciate the sacrifices he made on our behalf. We will miss his impromptu visits to our school and his stories of experiences and training with Sijo.

In January, Grandmaster promoted our own Sifu. We are forever grateful for the legacy he has given Kaju AZ directly to us and through our Professor George Lim.

Our thoughts and prayers are extended to his family. At Grandmaster's request, his services will be held in May.

Sijo Adriano Emperado, 1926 - 2009

2009-04-06T07:39:00.005-07:00

Sijo Adriano Emperado, Kajukenbo Founder, passed away in his sleep on Saturday, April 4th at approximately 11:15 pm. The Corder family had many opportunities over the past 15 years to meet him, learn from him and feel of his love of Kajukenbo and all its practitioners. He was a quiet and powerful man and has left a unique legacy.

Professor and Aunty Lim remind us: "On a summer day, nearly eighty three years ago, a little baby boy was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, by the name of Adriano Directo Emperado. No one could have predicted what a tremendous journey his life would take him on. He had a humble upbringing, trained in various martial arts, worked in law enforcement, served as body guard to the Governor of Hawaii, traveled around the world & he, along with four other gentlemen created a system of self defense like no other. A system that earned a much feared & respected reputation worldwide.

Considered the father of Hawaiian martial arts, Sijo Adriano Emperado is, by definition, the most influential martial artist in Hawaiian history. His endless creativity influenced just about every martial artist you will meet & he will continue to inspire for generations to come."

We visited Sijo in Maui last July and feel blessed to have had this opportunity. As we strive to improve ourselves through his art of Kajukenbo, we will honor him and make certain we represent his system with integrity and humility.

Our thoughts and prayers are extended to his sister Grandmaster Dechi Emperado, his caregivers Sigungs Kailani Koa and Henry Koa, and his entire family.

Sifu Kelly and Simou Jennifer Corder

Black Belts are White Belts That Never Quit

2009-03-29T11:28:00.014-07:00

Our first-ever Black Belt Testing and Ohana Luau was held March 21, 2009. It was an absolute success and we will forever treasure the memories. Kajukenbo pride and spirit was overflowing and the energy created that day will last for a long time.

Our testers displayed courage and heart. Training strong is a lifestyle for them and it showed in their performance. When one tester suffered an injury during the test, there was no hesitation to continue. It was a true demonstration of the no-quit attitude and heart that only the best-of-the-best in martial arts shows.

No one gets to black belt without support. Kaju AZ has, without a doubt, the best students ever! Our extended Ohana is always ready to help and support as well. When we get the chance to see it in action, it inspires us to be better people.

All of our testers know that black is only the beginning. The learning has just begun and their journeys are far from over. It's inspiring to see our younger belts feed from their energy and spirit. Kajukenbo Arizona is a better place because of their desire, dedication and discipline.

A special thanks to all our Kaju masters: Grandmasters Gary Forbach and Allen Abad, Professor George Lim, Professor Joe Stubbs, Sigung Aunty Patrice Lim, and Sigung Jack Wimbish. We were blessed to have many other black belts in attendance and we appreciate their love and support.

We were honored by all the many supporters during our weekend events. We couldn't have done it without each of you. Thank you for believing in Kaju AZ and for being allowing us to fulfill our dream of sharing Kajukenbo with you and honoring our Instructors and mentors.

Sifu Kelly and Simou Jennifer Corder

PS - Pictures are posted HERE!

Training Strong and Remaining Strong

2009-03-14T12:29:00.005-07:00

It is probably interesting to some that a vacation would involve packing your karate uniform and belt, ibuprofen and ice packs. But for us, it's the best vacation of all!

We anticipated our Ohana cruise for months, it came and ended too quickly. The week started with Black belt promotions for Sifu Kelly (5th Degree Master Instructor), Simou Jen (rank of Senior Black Belt) and Sibak Nicolas (1st Degree) as well as a surprise - Sisuk Cameron Corder to Green/Brown belt. It was great to see so many promoted after all their hard work during the dry runs and test. Grandmaster Dechi Emperado and Sigung Kailani Koa graced us with hula performances and it felt like we were not off shore of Long Beach, but in Hawaii!

Spending time with Ohana is always fun - lots of love, laughter, stories and on this trip, food. It's great to be out of the dojo and seeing each other in "real" clothes. But the true highlight of the trip was the training, which occurred on our day at sea.

The day started off a little gloomy and the seas were a bit rough (much mahalo to Professor's sister for the seasick pills!) but as the day progressed the sun and the material warmed our hearts and bodies. What a choice opportunity to work with Grandmaster Dechi Emperado, Grandmaster Vince Black, Grandmaster Harry Herrera, Sigung Henry Aiau Koa and Sigung Kailani Koa. Meeting with friends and training partners like Sigung Jack Wimbish, Sifu Coree Foster, Sifu Medhi Hakik, Sifu Brent Dean and their students and families was amazing! It was truly an honor and privilege to learn from all of them, hear their stories and soak in their Kajukenbo spirit.

Sifu and I are so glad to have taken advantage of this unique opportunity. At that time we booked this trip, the economy made things tight and that surely continues for all of us. It required sacrifice and planning but we felt certain that doing so for the positive things in our lives would be worth it. And of course it was!!! The memories and experiences are truly priceless and ones we will cherish forever! A very special thank you to all who made the same sacrifices to be on the cruise and to those who made this trip possible, especially Professor and Aunty Lim ... you are all forever in our hearts!

Simou Jen

Remembering a True Gentleman

2009-03-05T09:33:00.005-07:00

Mr. Kevin Casciani, one of Professor Lim's Black Belts, passed away last night after an almost five year battle with ALS. Mr. Casciani was a true warrior and possessed an amazing level of courage.

Mr. Casciani was always smiling and was very dedicated to his son, Kyle and wife, Karen. Simou Jen enjoyed many conversations with him in the "parent corner" as our sons trained at Lim Kenpo. He traveled a long distance to get Kyle to karate and we can't even think of one event that the Casciani family did not support. He had a great sense of humor and a true talent of making people feel at ease and happy.

Mr. Casciani fought ALS with never-ending dignity and courage. You can see the same qualities in his son and wife. He has left a great legacy and example that we can all strive to become.

It was an honor and pleasure to be associated with him and our thoughts and prayers are with his Ohana.

To learn more about Mr. Casciani's story and how you can support the ALS Association, please click here.

Sifu Kelly and Simou Jen

Black Belt Testing and Luau: If I am not testing, what’s the big deal?

2009-02-17T10:22:00.015-07:00

Black Belt Testing and the Ohana Luau is a celebration of the achievements that all martial artists strive for – the coveted black belt. While the black belt is the beginning of a new journey for many in martial arts, it is result of hundreds of classes, thousands of hours of training and years of perseverance and discipline for all who achieve the rank. For the testers, it is a mental and physical challenge that compares to no other test. It is their moment to shine and show Kaju AZ students their martial art skills.

For those who are not testing, it is a unique chance to personally experience the blood, sweat and tears of our fellow team members’ accomplishments. For those who also train, it is a great way to see down the road and look forward to your future moment to shine. Meeting students and instructors from other schools is a way to enjoy others who have trained with YOUR instructors. It is easy to see that although we don’t all train together, we experience all the same ups and downs. It is a moving experience for students of all ages - even Kaju Dragons and Juniors!

It is impossible to witness this event without feeling inspired.

All testers, no matter what degree or belt rank they are testing for appreciate Kaju AZ team support. Our strongest characteristic as Kajukenbo Arizona is our sense of family. Being there for others will ensure the same support will be there for you!

Kaju AZ events are great for all ages and we encourage all students and their families to attend. We have made this event affordable and we want everyone to experience the strength of our Ohana!

Our First Black Belt Promotion and Ohana Luau will be Saturday, March 21, 2009. The event includes testing in the morning and a traditional Hawaiian Luau (food, entertainment, demos and more!) later that evening beginning at 6 pm. Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased now through March 6th. Reserve your spot now before it is too late!

For more information call Simou Jen at 480-755-3008 or simou@kajuaz.com

Sifu Promoted by Grandmaster Abad

2009-01-26T13:49:00.007-07:00

Grandmaster Abad promoted Sifu Kelly to 5th Degree Master Instructor at the Lim Kenpo Karate Black Belt Testing. The promotion was a surprise to Sifu as he was prepared for the testing and was not expecting the honor bestowed upon him.

The day was designed as a tribute to Grandmaster, with demos from many schools and several presentations to him. Grandmaster Abad has many accomplishments in martial arts throughout his life. He has touched many students through his decades of teaching and service. It was an honor to be a part of a special and touching tribute to him and hear many stories about his life and history.

Thank you to all the many schools that participated, especially all the Kaju AZ Ohana who came to support Sifu Kelly. It was awesome to see so many students take time out of their busy day to be with us! So many of our young students may not understand everything that happened, but one day they will hold these memories dear.

Mahalo nui loa to Professor and Aunty Lim for making all of our training possible, especially this unique event. It's a pleasure to be associated with them and each and every member of their Ohana. As Professor says "In Ohana There is Strength" and all in attendance could feel the love and overwhelming Aloha.

Beltmanship: One Team, One Dream

2009-01-15T16:34:00.016-07:00

Beltsmanship is a word that represents the attitude we have to our instructors and to our training partners in the dojo. It goes a little deeper than the black belt attitude that we have talked about previously – it is more about our behavior when learning and working with a partner. Here are some thoughts regarding this at Kaju AZ:

Knowledge of Technique: Everyone will have many opportunities to share their knowledge at Kaju AZ. No one makes it to black belt without teaching.

For a higher belt demonstrating a technique, "Teaching IS Learning." Until you have demonstrated the technique and described it, you have not really learned it. Teaching a technique you have performed many, many times will allow you to take it to the next level. Different students will ask questions that will prompt you to think about the technique in a different way. It’s possible that the technique might not work exactly the same for them as it does for you because of body style, strength, balance, and other factors. If asked a question you don’t know the answer to, be direct and research it. NEVER try to BS the student or make believe that we know the answer to everything....we don’t and BS is obvious!

For younger belts, when training with an instructor or upper belt, keep in mind that person is your instructor for that session. Follow his/her direction no matter if you think you know it better or have been taught the technique differently. Maybe you don’t know it as well as you think, or maybe your are not in sync with what they are asking of you. Not every student performs techniques the same way as the black belts or instructors, and it does not necessarily mean they are wrong.

It is very disrespectful to correct a higher belt or talk over him/her. Be patient as sometimes the higher belt is teaching a technique and is nervous, can have difficultly communicating things, or can be thinking about several other important aspects. It’s not a big deal if, for that training session, tournament technique 13 looks very, very similar to 11.

Skill: One of the key components of this area is to NEVER ASSUME! Students should not think that a younger belt should pull their punches and pretend they are less skilled than you just because they are a lower belt. Many students come with a natural ability that allows them to do some things more naturally than those that have trained for years. Do not be dismayed when a younger belt shows this skill - we should be proud and happy to see that and cheer them on in their efforts to become accomplished martial artists.

Always remember that it takes more than the physical skills to make a black belt. Everyone will learn different skills at different rates. I want my students to be better than I am – all the higher belts want that too.

For the younger belts: don’t get cocky. Just because your kick is high does not mean that you can actually use it, or know when to use it. It takes time and practice to develop the practical use of a great kick. Some of us are not blessed with a high kick, but with training, we can certainly make the kick we are blessed with work for us. A younger belt must keep in mind the other non-physical aspects that come with training and remain humble – otherwise certain lessons will never be fully understood.

Energy & Encouragement: When a student cheers you on, no matter what belt level, be thankful that they feel part of the team and have the desire for everyone to succeed. We are one team in the dojo and it is everyone’s job to encourage all students. When a younger belt shouts out advice, don’t be too proud to accept it. That student might have just heard that advise from a black belt instructor and wants to pass it along to show that they were listening and have learned it. Does it "look" bad taking advice from a lower belt? Maybe, if you think that a black belt is perfect. But a black belt is NOT perfect. The fact is, we all can use encouragement when the test is tough – and we should accept it from any source and be thankful.

Younger belts' excitement and enthusiasm adds to the energy of the dojo - and we love that! Cheering and encouragement is very much appreciated, even required, at times. Be quick to praise the efforts of all fellow students that your are working with. Be respectful in interacting with an higher belt. Know that it is not proper etiquette to correct an upper belt by blurting out that they are wrong. Make the most of your training by gaining what is being offered during that training session.

Patience: In general, all students have to control their emotions and learn to become more patient when working with other students from all levels. We should try not to expect more than they are able to give us. We should help them increase their confidence in the knowledge and skills they have in order for them to be ready to gain new ones. Everyone starts at white belt...remember that you were there once.

Kaju AZ is truly one team with one dream. Keep training hard and always be humble.

Sifu Kelly

The Inspirational Journey of an Inspirational Martial Artist

2009-01-06T12:32:00.014-07:00

Sifu and Simou Corder and Kaju AZ Ohana:

I hope this letter finds you well. I want to wish you a very prosperous and happy New Year! I am excited to inform you that I am training to hike Mount Kilimanjaro in June 2009! Kilimanjaro is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world, and what makes this trip so special is that I’m doing it with a team from The Foundation for Blind Children which includes nine blind climbers! The climb will span eight nights and rely heavily on teamwork and effective communication between the sighted climbers and the blind climbers. Our team has been training since May and will continue to do so until our journey in June 2009.

To help you fully understand my commitment to this challenge, I would like to briefly share my story with you.

My name is Tom Hicks and I am 42 years old. I live in Gilbert, Arizona with my wife and seven children. I will never forget the day I first heard from an Army Opthalmologist, “Captain Hicks you are legally blind.” My first thought was, “How am I going to provide for my wife and our children?” The onset of blindness rocked our family’s world and the challenges we were presented with were, in the beginning, overwhelming. We were filled with hopelessness, fear, and uncertainty. My 13 year U. S. Army career came to an abrupt end when I was diagnosed with a progressive degenerative retinal disease called Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) and I was medically discharged. That was 11 years ago. Ironically, a blind rehabilitation counselor once told me, “For some blindness is a mountain and for others it’s a walk in the park.”

Today, I work at the Phoenix VA Medical Center as a Case Manager and serve over 800 blind or visually impaired veterans with their blind adjustment and rehabilitation. Honestly, I have yet to meet the person for whom blindness is a “walk in the park.” I can say that slowly losing more and more eyesight each day is extremely challenging and the ripple effect of blindness touches everyone in that person’s life. I can say from my personal experience and what I observe as a blind rehabilitation professional, that in the beginning living a life with blindness seems hopeless and overwhelming like climbing a mountain and never reaching the summit. For me, climbing Kilimanjaro is very symbolic and it is all about hope and inspiration and creating awareness about the many services and programs offered at the Foundation for Blind Children that positively change lives and improve opportunities for those of us who must everyday “walk by faith and not by sight.” I want to be a part of the efforts that shatter the many myths and preconceived notions held toward blindness. I want others to know the truth about living a life with blindness, “You can do it!” Together with your support we can…will…must reach the summit of Kilimanjaro!

I am asking you to partner with me in this once-in-a-lifetime challenge to inspire hope in others and demonstrate the great accomplishments people with disabilities can achieve with equal access, training, and opportunity. Reaching the top of Kilimanjaro will not only testify to the power of those with a handicap, but will also signify reaching a new apex in what blind children and adults can do with the will and support to take a risk. If you are able and would like to contribute to my journey, please visit my Team page at http://www.SeeKiliOurWay.org to donate funds online. Simply click the “Climber” link on the left and then “Team Hicks”.

Your support will help raise awareness for the blind community as well as directly affect the programs of the Foundation for Blind Children. The Foundation for Blind Children is a charitable organization which is federally classified as a 501(c)(3) non-profit. Donations to the Foundation may be tax deductible to the full extent of the law.

I thank you in advance for your support and hope this challenge brings as much encouragement to you as it will to me and our family.

Sincerely,
Sibak Thomas L. Hicks
(Lim Kenpo Karate Student)

Make a New Year's Resolution to Work Hard

2008-12-31T14:43:00.001-07:00

One of Sifu's favorite authors is Harvey Mackay. He is an awesome businessman, writer and motivational speaker. This recent column of his, summarizes our feelings and experiences as well. We want all of you to be successful in all your goals - and we are here to help you!

Happy New Year from Sifu and Simou! See you all back in the dojo, ready to work, in 2009!

The 10,000-hour investment
by Harvey Mackay

For years I have preached the importance of hard work, determination, persistence and practice—make that perfect practice—as key ingredients of success. A nifty new book seems to support my theory. Malcolm Gladwell has written a fascinating study, "Outliers, The Story of Success," which should make a lot of people feel much better about not achieving instant success. In fact, he says it takes about 10 years, or 10,000 hours, of practice to attain true expertise.

"The people at the very top don't just work harder or even much harder than everyone else," Gladwell writes. "They work much, much harder." Achievement, he says, is talent plus preparation. Preparation seems to play a bigger role. For example, he describes The Beatles' rise to fame: They had been together seven years before their famous arrival in America. They spent a lot of time playing in strip clubs in Hamburg, Germany, sometimes for as long as eight hours a night. John Lennon said of those years: "We got better and got more confidence. We couldn't help it with all the experience playing all night long." Overnight sensation? Not exactly. Estimates are that that the band performed live 1,200 times before their big success in 1964. By comparison, most bands don't perform 1,200 times in their careers.

Neurologist Daniel Levitin has studied the formula for success extensively, and shares this finding: "The emerging picture from such studies is that 10,000 hours of practice is required to achieve the level of mastery associated with being a world-class expert in anything. In study after study of composers, basketball players, fiction writers, ice skaters, concert pianists, chess players, master criminals, and what have you, the number comes up again and again. Of course, this doesn't address why some people get more out of their practice sessions than others do. But no one has yet found a case in which true world-class expertise was accomplished in less time. It seems it takes the brain this long to assimilate all that it needs to know to achieve true mastery."
Two computer giants, Bill Joy, who co-founded Sun Microsystems, and Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft, also were proof of the 10,000-hour theory. Their years of hard work paid off, don't you think?

As Gladwell puts it, "Practice isn't the thing you do once you're good. It's the thing you do that makes you good."

My purely unscientific observations support all that he says. Our sales reps at MackayMitchell Envelope Company seem to hit their prime after several years of hard work. And I believe it's more than getting comfortable in the job, because I've also seen sales reps that seemed like naturals at selling who couldn't peddle water in the desert. Why? They thought they could get by on their good looks, their winning personalities or their pedigrees. The notion of investing 10,000 hours didn't apply to them—or so they thought. I wouldn't know, because they aren't working for us anymore.

Consider these thoughts from successful folks in all walks of life:

"A winner is someone who recognizes his God-given talents, works his tail off to develop them into skills, and uses these skills to accomplish his goals."—Larry Bird, basketball star turned coach/team president.

"No one can arrive from being talented alone. God gives talent; work transforms talent into genius."—Anna Pavlova, poet.

"I know the price of success: dedication, hard work and an unremitting devotion to the things you want to see happen."—Frank Lloyd Wright, architect.

"The way to learn to do things is to do things. The way to learn a trade is to work at it. Success teaches how to succeed. Begin with the determination to succeed, and the work is half done already."—Mark Twain, writer and humorist.

"Things may come to those who wait. But only the things left by those who hustle."—President Abraham Lincoln.

Do you detect a theme here?

The abilities these people possessed were far-ranging, yet the formula for success was the same: hard work and lots of it. I don't know anyone who has succeeded any other way. Some people just make it look easy. Of course, you probably didn't see the first 9,999 hours of hard work. And you don't just have to work hard; you have to work smart too.

Mackay's Moral: Some people dream about success, and others wake up and do something about it.

To learn more go to: http://www.harveymackay.com/.

--
Posted By Kajukenbo Arizona to Desperately Seeking Jennifer at 12/31/2008 02:30:00 PM

2008: An Outstanding Year for Kaju AZ!

2008-12-15T14:06:00.022-07:00

We look back on many fond memories of 2008...

In February, Sifu began training at the PIT with Kumu John Hackleman. The PIT has added so much to Kaju AZ. Our CrossPIT classes are fun and challenging...and we keep coming back for more! Look for Sifu to visit the PIT more in 2009 and bring back even more exciting material.

We also had the pleasure of training during the year with so many masters including Professor and Sigung Lim, Olohe Solomon Kaihewalu, KSDI Masters, Dai Shihan Ted Tabura - we have learned much and are grateful for each experience.

We had four successful testing events in 2008. We are excited and looking forward to our first Black Belt Testing on March 21, 2009. MMA Black Belt Candidate Linda George is training hard and preparing for this unique event.

Sifu and the Corder family were able to visit Kajukenbo Founder, Sijo Adriano Emperado in Maui in July. What an honor to spend an afternoon with him!

Throughout the year we had the opportunity to share Kajukenbo at many self-defense clinics and seminars, as well as several demos. It is always a honor to participate and hopefully inspire others to join the martial arts.

Our dojo grew in August to 3,200 square feet and it's hard to remember the smaller dojo we were training in just a few months ago. More space has allowed Sifu, Sihing and our assistant instructors to provide more material and creative training for all of us!

Sifu, Mr. Nic and the Lim Kenpo Ohana participated in Black Belt Testing in the fall. What awesome events! The Black Belt Testing is January 24, 2009 and this will surely be a highlight for 2009!

We were blessed to add new instructors and classes to our school! Welcome to Mr. Marc Hernandez and Ms. Candace Hisatake as Black Belt Instructors, Coach Paul Nava for Jiu-Jitsu, Coach Jonathan Hedden for boxing and sparring and Coach Kyle Miller for our Strength Training Classes. It has been great to add more to our curriculum and learn from these great teachers.

We hosted Grandmaster Gary Forbach, Professor Joe Stubbs and Professor Mark Vorbau in October for a Self-Defense Seminar. It was an honor to train with them and we hope to host more events with Grandmaster in 2009.

Kaju AZ showed the generous spirit of Ohana with our MS events and Diapers for Djibouti. Following the inspiration of our student, Katie Crowder, we pulled together and raised over $6,000 for Multiple Sclerosis! We also had a campaign to help the orphans in Africa through the loyal servicemen and women stationed there. We contributed 756 diapers and 24 cans of formula!

Throughout the year some of our students participated in their first tournament ever. All participants had a great time and many came away with trophies and good memories. It was also great to see every student working past their comfort zones - getting stronger and perfecting techniques all the while becoming better human beings.

We love our Ohana! We treasure each experience and association with our wonderful instructors and students. Thank you for all your support, love and generosity and for capturing the true meaning of Ohana. We feel inspired and ready to make 2009 even better!

Sifu Kelly and Simou Jen

Welcome Coach Jonathan Hedden!

2008-12-01T20:11:00.004-07:00

Kaju AZ is happy to welcome Coach Jonathan Hedden! Coach Jon will be teaching our Adult Sparring and Boxing/Kickboxing classes on Wednesday nights (see our new schedule). He has been training in martial for about 19 years and enjoys training in multiple styles. He is ranked in Ishin Ryu and Kajukenbo and has a 2nd Degree Black Belt with John Barrett American Martial Arts in Torrance, CA. Jon has trained in boxing, Jeet Kune Do, Kali and Muay Thai with various instructors including Richard Brasillo of IMB and Jiu-Jitsu, kickboxing, boxing, and Tang Su Do with John Barrett He also taught for several years in California.

Coach Jon trained with Sifu Kelly at NAK and looks forward working with all the Kaju AZ students. Through all his varied experience, Coach Jon strives to always remain humble. His philosophy: "Humility is not thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less."

Have an Attitude of Gratitude for Thanksgiving!

2008-11-25T17:49:00.004-07:00

"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, confusion into clarity.... It turns problems into gifts, failures into success, the unexpected into perfect timing, and mistakes into important events. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow."

Melodie Beattie, Author and Journalist

Welcome Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Coach Paul Nava to Kaju AZ!

2008-11-10T13:45:00.006-07:00

Kajukenbo Arizona is happy to announce that we have added to our staff! Coach Paul Nava will be teaching our grappling and our new Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) class.

Coach Paul is a BJJ Nova Uniao Brown Belt and has been training for over 10 years. He is originally from San Jose and lives here with his wife of 10 years, Leslie. Coach Paul has 5 children! He also studied Muay Thai for 3 years. Coach firmly believes that hard work pays off and that students "are never too old to learn and experience new challenges." Some of his BJJ achievements include:

*2008 American Nationals, Gold (Middleweight) and Silver (Open Weight)
Medalist
*2008 California State, Gold Medalist
*2008 Pan American, Gold Medalist
*2007 Pan American, Bronze Medalist
*2006 American Nationals, Gold (Middleweight) and Bronze (Open weight)
Medalist
*2005 American International, Gold (Middleweight) Medalist
*2001 Copa Invitational, Bronze (Middleweight) Medalist

Coach Paul will be teaching from 8-9 pm on Monday nights, 7:30 - 9 pm on Wednesday nights. He will also be available for private lessons at a reduced rate for Kaju AZ Students. Our new schedule is available at www.kajuaz.com

Thank you for your support! We are excited to be adding to our curriculum and enthusiastically welcome Coach Paul!

Simou Jen

One Team, One Dream

2008-11-02T15:36:00.011-07:00

"No one can whistle a symphony. It takes an orchestra to play it."
H.E. Luccock

While there are exceptions, it really does take a team to carry out a vision. Such was the theme at the Final Black Belt Test Dry Run for Lim Kenpo Karate on Saturday, November 1st.

I wrote about the prior Dry Run and remarked on how it was inspirational. Saturday’s event was even more so.

Kaju AZ students Cameron Corder and Thomas Maher were asked to participate and at the time, I did not understand exactly why Professor Lim did so. It was apparent as soon as the training started.

The workout was challenging to say the least. After a couple of hours of non-stop drills including pushups, springs, mountain climbers, kicks and so much more, you could see the physical and emotional pain on each face. In one case, I saw a teenage girl squat next to a younger student who was really trying to push through the pain…and literally pushed her up to complete the spring. She offered many words of encouragement and continued to help her physically until the next break. I saw this many times over throughout the day. It was inspirational on so many levels.

No one asked them to help their fellow students, they just did it. In my experience over the past 15 years in martial arts, I know this is a rare thing. Most schools encourage self-centered students by putting them on a pedestal or promoting them to black belt without possession of a black belt attitude. Ultimately, it not only hurts the student but the dojo as well. These schools aren’t families, just glorified gyms.

The participants were partnered during some of the exercises. One exercise required that they learn five things about their partner while running their self-defense. Another involved solving a problem together and then presenting their collective thoughts to the group.

Do you know five things about each person you train with? Do you know five things about your instructor? You should.

Sometimes we are so focused on getting to class on time, getting our material for our next promotion and then rushing out to move on to the next part of our day that we forget that we are a TEAM. We forget that although we are all at different levels, we are stronger as a TEAM. We forget that we will gain so much more…for our minds, bodies and spirits…if we work as a TEAM.

Cameron and Thomas certainly know each other. They train together regularly and really exemplify teamwork in and out of the dojo. Both of them train hard and never short-change the other by going too soft but exhibit self-control at all times. Both are willing the share their knowledge, not just with each other but also with everyone. Both show care and concern about their lives outside the dojo and their family members. At the recent Brick Breaking Event for MS, Cameron inspected each brick that Thomas was about to break. Thomas carefully set up the bricks that Cameron was planning to break. Each was standing close by during their breaks as a way of protection and concern. And each was the first person to high-five and extend congratulations.

Kaju AZ has never been nor never will be a school about individuals. It was never designed for selfish students. All of us are really working toward the same thing: Black Belt Excellence in every day in every way.

The people we train with should inspire us. They should support us. They should help us be better in all areas of our lives. Allowing them to practice techniques on us is just the beginning. Each student has so much to offer the entire group.

Being a Kaju AZ Black Belt is never going to be about having the hardest punches or the highest kicks. It is always going to be about a standard of performance of material and about becoming a better person through martial arts. A Black Belt has to be willing to be part of a team, at Kaju AZ, in our community, and in our world.

As we Train Strong to Remain Strong, remember that we are also One Team with One Dream.

Simou Jennifer Corder

Kaju AZ Ohana Raises Over $6,000 for MS!

2008-10-19T16:50:00.006-07:00

Thank you to all who made our MS events successful! Our events began with Grandmaster Forbach's Seminar on October 4th (Grandmaster and Katie are pictured above.) and ended with our Demo Team Performance, Brick Breaking and final BBQ on October 18th.

We appreciate all the generous donations, bidders and all the extra work from our students and Ohana. Katie Crowder was the real force behind our success and we are grateful for her sharing her powerful story. This is an inspirational story you should read again!

We are especially grateful for all our Lim Kenpo Ohana donations and bidders. We received bids from all over the US and even Portugal!

Our brick breakers received over $1,700 in pledges. What a great Breaking Team!

Thank you to our BBQ Experts, Derald Mullenaux and David Booth! Our lunches raised $998 and we appreciate all the families and friends that filled their plates for a great cause.

Marian Wright Edelman said, “Service is the rent we pay to be living.” We look forward to future ways to “pay our rent.”

You can still donate to Katie's Team for the MS Walk on November 8th.

Thanks again for making a difference in all our lives!

Sifu Kelly and Simou Jennifer Corder

The Way You Train (Test) is the Way You Fight

2008-10-13T09:07:00.005-07:00

It was my pleasure to witness the dry run for black belt testing at Lim Kenpo Karate in which Sifu and Mr. Nic participated. Most karate schools would not have the guts to push their students and instructors like that. Most Professor’s and Sigung’s don’t care that much about their students to push. Most students and instructors would not be able to handle the pushing. But this event was exceptional in that regard.

I saw a young tester pump out one push up after another while in extreme pain.

I saw a tester stay strong and not quit after vomiting during his performance. I saw his fellow students quietly and quickly clean up.

I saw testers encouraging others with words of praise and pats on the back.

I saw testers link arms to complete a task and pull their teammate across the finish line.

I saw hard-hitting self-defense mixed with self-control.

I saw the disappointment on a tester’s face when he was told his injury was too extreme to continue. I saw that same tester put off a trip to the urgent care so he could remain to cheer on the other testers.

I heard a teenaged-young man talk about how much he liked being himself but he just wanted to be a better person.

I heard a man say that everything he does is for his family.

I heard about bravery and I saw it in action.

I saw room full of supporters, family and friends, that although they might not train in martial arts, they will do whatever it takes to make it happen for their family.

I never heard complaints. I never saw anyone quit.

I have logged in a LOT of hours in martial arts – both training and observing. I know what a bad test looks like. I know what a quitter looks like. I know how someone acts who just doesn’t have the heart. I have even seen the lack of heart of an instructor. I have seen instructors that don’t push their students to the limit or provide a great class simply because they are too tired or not interested. I have seen instructors make special rules or excuses for students that have no heart just so they have another black belt on their family tree.

I saw none of that on Saturday. In fact, I was inspired to step up. Step up my own training, my teaching and my goals at Kaju AZ.

I want all of our students to truly “Train Strong to Remain Strong” - in all aspects of mind, body and spirit and moreover, in aspects of their lives. Because I know one thing for certain: the way you train or test is the way you fight. I do not want any of my students, my associates, my fellow martial artists, to ever give up in any fight. I am not just talking about fist fights… I refer to emotional trials, health battles, financial problems – you name it. A fight is a fight no matter what you are fighting.

I often talk about how martial arts have made me a better person. Saturday inspired me. Thank you to all the testers, instructors and all supporters who made that happen.

Simou Jen

Awesome Day at Kajukenbo Arizona!

2008-10-05T16:20:00.013-07:00

Saturday, October 4th was a great day to be at Kaju AZ!

Grandmaster Forbach, Professor Joe Stubbs and Professor Mark Vorbau treated students from many schools with an amazing self-defense seminar. We are honored to have them in our Ohana! Grandmaster shared so many wonderful stories about Sijo Emperado and we learned so much not only from his amazing Kaju skills, but from his experiences! He is truly an inspiration to all of us!

Thank you to Grandmaster Ted Sotelo for stopping by as well as his generous donation to our auction. Kajukenbo was well represented by all the many schools who came and supported this event.

Special thanks to our Professor George Lim and Sigung Aunty Patrice Lim. Their kindness is overwhelming. Our Kaju AZ and Lim Kenpo support team - made up of students and parents - really make it easy to host a large event!

Finally, thank you to all that supported our charity BBQ events for Multiple Sclerosis and Katie Crowder! Our BBQ lunch raised $510 for MS and we received many bids in our silent auction. Don't forget that the bidding will continue until our MS Demo, Brick Breaking Event and BBQ on October 18th.

This was an inspirational and emotional day to feel all the Kajukenbo history, pride and generosity! We look forward to more events like this one in the future.

Sifu Kelly and Simou Jennifer Corder

MS Can't Keep Kaju AZ Student Katie Crowder Down!

2008-09-23T11:12:00.012-07:00

My Journey with Multiple Sclerosis By Katie Crowder

In the summer of 2004 my left hand started to tingle. You know that feeling when you sleep on your arm funny and it “falls asleep”. But the tingle never went away. Soon it traveled up my arm and eventually the tingle also started in my toes and traveled up my leg. Within weeks I saw my primary care doctor, a hand specialist and finally a neurologist. After many tests the diagnosis came back. I had Multiple Sclerosis (MS). I didn’t even know what MS was. All I could think of was that Jerry Lewis telethon on TV, but that wasn’t MS at all. (For more detailed information about Multiple Sclerosis please visit www.nmss.org.)

When the doctor came in to give the diagnosis it went something like this. Tyler and I sat on the edge of our seats with anticipation and anxiety. The doctor flipped through my chart looking for the test results from an MRI and spinal tap. He couldn’t find them. He walked out of the room. I remember sitting there thinking, ‘Please just get this over with’. When the doctor finally returned, he looked at the results and said, “Okay, you have MS now let’s get you on some medicine”. I kid you not. No sympathy, no concern, no hope for the future, nothing. It was like I had a cold or something. Needless to say, I switched doctors fast. Luckily the new doctor, Dr. Pamela Vincent offered compassion and hope. She told me that my case was caught very early and was mild. Although, the diagnosis was devastating we were grateful it was caught so early.

Dr. Vincent told us we needed to go home and do a lot of research and then make an educated decision about which medicine to go with. At the time there were 4 “disease-modifying” treatments or medications, all given by injection. After much thought and anguish we decided to go with a medicine called Rebif. It had a little bit better track record than its counterparts, however the side effects were expected to be less than favorable. About this time the tingling sensation in my hand/arm and feet had subsided. I was able to be on Rebif for about 20 months before I stopped to get pregnant.

In April 2006, I was blessed to get pregnant. During pregnancy your immune system is suppressed and so MS tends to go into remission. Luke was born in January 2007. Typically about 6 months after giving birth you have a flare up. Therefore, it was necessary to be back on medicine within 6 months after giving birth. However, I had developed antibodies to Rebif and I could no longer be on that medication (as well as 2 of the other 4). That left me with only one of the “disease-modifying” treatment options, Copaxone. In August 2007 I started the Copaxone, which was an injection I gave to myself everyday.

In October 2007, I had a flare up. My right arm and right leg started to tingle. The right side of my face started having some sensitivity and my neck had a constant itch. Again, in December my arm started to tingle. Therefore my new doctor, Dr. Barry Hendin, put me on a steroid treatment for 5 days. While discussing these flare ups with Dr. Hendin he brought up the possibility of switching to a newer medicine known as Tysabri. He felt like it was an aggressive move to put me on the Tysabri. However, he said something that struck both Tyler and I. He said that when he looks at me (a 28 year old mother of 3 that is generally healthy) he sees what I will be in 10 or 15 years. And he stated, he wanted to see me walking without a cane or walker. (According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS), “Statistics suggest that 2 out of 3 people with MS remain able to walk over their lifetime, though many of them will need a cane or other assistive device. Some will choose to use a scooter or wheelchair to conserve energy. Others will require a wheelchair to maintain mobility. The “disease-modifying” treatments mentioned earlier, and in use only since the 1990s, may favorably alter this projection.”)

Dr. Hendin said what we do now affects you very significantly in the future. He said I could continue on the Copaxone and hope it is working, but if we wait and damage occurs during that time then it could negatively affect my future. Tysabri is a relatively new drug with a much higher success rate than the other 4 medicines, but with more severe side effects. Two years previous Tysabri was pulled from the market because 2 people died while on the medication from a rare brain infection. It is considered a last resort medicine. It was reintroduced to the market and administered only when people follow strict guidelines. Tyler and I decided Tysabri was the right choice for me and I have been on this medicine for the past 8 months. I have had little to no symptoms in the last 8 months. Last week I had an MRI and I am thrilled to report that there has been no progression in the last year!!!

During the first 3 years since I was diagnosed I suffered minimal symptoms. However, I suffered fatigue almost daily. Fatigue is the number 1 symptom of MS. Exercise is one of many things that can be done to help combat fatigue. The NMSS states, “A study published by researchers at the University of Utah in 1996 was the first to demonstrate clearly the benefits of exercise for people with MS. Those patients who participated in an aerobic exercise program had better cardiovascular fitness, improved strength, better bladder and bowel function, less fatigue and depression, a more positive attitude, and increased participation in social activities.” Although I don’t experience many of these problems, I may in the future. So in order to help keep this disease at bay and do everything in my power to keep it from progressing, I’ve been searching for the right exercise program for myself. I’ve tried walking, yoga, step aerobics and weight lifting. I always felt better when I exercised, but I never felt like my body was getting stronger or healthier.

In the fall of 2005, I had the opportunity to attend a women’s self-defense seminar. This was my first experience with martial arts. I loved it! It was that initial experience that got me interested and eventually brought me to train at Kajukenbo AZ. And it has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in my life. I have been training since January 2008 and couldn’t be happier. In the beginning I did everything half-heartedly for fear of overdoing it and having increased fatigue. However, in the months since then my body has gained so much muscle and strength. My endurance has increased significantly. Martial arts have so many benefits for MS. It truly does all those things stated above: it helps with fatigue, spasticity, balance and gait problems and even memory. This is the best exercise program I have ever been apart of and the most committed I’ve ever been to exercise. That is why I am so excited to team up with Sifu, Simou and the Kajukenbo family in raising money for the MS Walk on November 8th, 2008.

The reason I share my story with you is to show you just how blessed I have been because of the NMSS. The NMSS, founded in 1946, is a voluntary health agency dedicated to ending the devastating effects of MS through providing programs and services to individuals and families living with MS and generating and funding research into the cause and cure of multiple sclerosis. With 62 Chapters across the country, the National MS Society is the leading source of unbiased information on multiple sclerosis and the largest private funder of MS research in the world.

Fifteen years ago, there were no medications for MS. There were only drugs that were used for symptom management. There was no medication to slow down the progression of MS. It is because of research supported by the NMSS and others that there are now many medicines that slow down and in some cases repair damage caused by MS. I have benefited from those medicines. It is my hope that I will not feel the adverse affects of MS. Many of you may know someone with MS and may think of someone in a wheelchair or walking with a cane. I don’t fit that profile and I hope I never do. This is why I am committed to this fundraiser and walk. The money raised will go directly to funding research, finding more effective medicines and potentially finding a cure for MS.

Please help by making a donation - large or small - to my personal Walk MS page. Or, why not join me on the day of the event? Become a participant or volunteer and side by side, as teammates, we can work together to raise the funds to make a difference.

You can also show your support by participating in the Kajukenbo AZ sponsored fundraiser to benefit the MS Walk. It will be held October 18th at 10am. It will include a FREE children’s defense seminar, brick breaking demo, katana demo and a silent auction. Silent auction items will be on display October 1-18 inside the dojo. Stop by and show your support. If you have a service or basket to donate please contact Simou. Winners of the silent auction will be announced on October 18th. Lunch will follow. All proceeds from the lunch will also go towards the MS Walk.

I love being a part of Kaju AZ and am grateful for how it has helped me in my fight with MS. Thank you all in advance for making a difference in my life and others with MS! As Sifu says "What goes around, comes around" and I know your generosity will be rewarded in the future!

Katie Crowder

A Post Script from Simou: We are so pleased to have Katie as a part of our Kaju AZ Team! She brings not only her two Kaju Dragons, but an awesome energy to the dojo. She is graceful, helpful and always gives her best. Since announcing our desire to help Katie raise funds for MS, we have learned that Grandmaster Forbach's sister suffered from MS as well as Linda George's (2009 black belt candidate) Father. Both died too early. Stephanie Koogler's (Black Belt Candidate) Mom Marilyn is also fighting the disease. MS touches all of us and we have a great opportunity to make a difference. Thank you for your support!

Go For The Gold In Everything You Do!

2008-09-17T19:02:00.005-07:00

Sifu and I are always looking for ideas, inspiration and ways to improve our mind, body and spirit. I came across this recently and decided that the smart and inspirational Harvey Mackay said it all perfectly. Please enjoy!

Simou Jen

Lessons from the Olympics
(Courtesy of www.harveymackay.com)

I just returned from witnessing 17 days of competition at my ninth Summer Olympics. To say it was memorable is an understatement. I watched Michael Phelps win his record eight gold medals, cheered on the "Redeem Team" to basketball gold, shared the excitement of the electrifying upset win by the men's volleyball team, and witnessed the best opening and closing ceremonies in history.

What struck me throughout is what goes into making an Olympic champion—or for that matter a gold-medal winning entrepreneur or manager. Here's my short list:

Heart. I recently wrote a column on how heart trumps just about all the other senses when it comes to accomplishing the new and the unknown. There's no denying the heart of a champion. I witnessed the miracle of Rebecca Soni, who came back from heart surgery one year ago to qualify as an alternate for the U.S. women's swim team. When the opportunity arose for her to compete, she proceeded to win a gold medal in the 200-meter breast stroke in world-record time.

Determination. An athlete can have the perfect body for a competition or the best coach, but if they don't have a deep-down burning desire to achieve something, they won't accomplish it. Sometimes desire is more important than talent. Determination can turn the ordinary into extraordinary.

Dedication. The Summer Olympics happen only every four years, so for the little attention an athlete receives over 17 days of competition, there are many hundreds more days of grinding solitary workouts. There are no shortcuts in the world of sports and life.

Goals. Athletes must stay focused on their goals above all else. Truly dedicated individuals won't let anything interfere with attaining their goals. That's why so few people become champions.

Preparation. It takes a lot of sweat, sacrifice and discipline to become an Olympic champion. If it were easy to become the best, everyone would do it. No one can do it for them. Perfect practice makes perfect.

Confidence. Athletes have to believe that they can win ... that they have done everything in their power to compete at the highest level. There can be no fear of failure. Confidence enables them to perform to the absolute best of their abilities.
Concentration/Focus. I love to watch and study athletes as they are getting ready to compete. You can see them running through their races or routines in their heads. Nothing can distract them. (The lone exception was Dara Torres before one of her races when she made everyone wait because a competing swimmer had a torn suit. I guess we could add sportsmanship to the list.)

Competition. The breakfast of champions is not cereal, it's competition. It is healthy. It keeps athletes sharp, makes them better and improves quality. Athletes should not only welcome stiff competition, they should actively seek it. They'll never realize their full potential in business or sports unless they're challenged.

Mental Toughness. There are many things that can go wrong in life, so athletes must be mentally prepared for whatever happens. Sometimes they have to perform at their best when they're feeling their worst. Champions block out the pain and do what's necessary to win or get the job done.

Vision. I learned long ago that projecting oneself into a successful situation is the most powerful means there is of attaining personal goals. Vision doesn't do the planning and it doesn't anticipate the obstacles. It gives a real idea of what is possible, if only they want it badly enough.

Life is not always fair. Sometimes things happen that are out of one's control. Judging can be uneven, conditions may not be perfect and equipment can fail. Champions know how to deal with it.

Don't let age be a deterrent. Look at 41-year-old Dara Torres, who proved to be the second fastest woman swimmer in the world and lost by 1/100th of a second. Or how about Romania's Constantina Tomescu-Dita, who at age 38 won the women's marathon. And don't forget John Dane III, who at age 58, made the U.S. Olympic sailing team for the first time after trying to qualify for 40 years.

Fun. Above all, athletes have to love what they are doing to achieve gold-medal performances. It should be fun. One thing I will take away from the Beijing Olympics is the smile of Shawn Johnson from the women's gymnastics team. She showed unbridled joy, in both winning and losing.

Mackay's Moral: Go for the gold in whatever you do!

The Black Belt Attitude

2008-09-09T10:46:00.004-07:00

Attitude is everything. But what is a black belt attitude and why would I as your instructor want you to exhibit it in the dojo and out of the dojo?

Masters in the martial arts seem to have a confidence that goes beyond the ability to hurt someone. Some of the greatest examples of a black belt attitude are exhibited by masters where it is not immediately obvious that they train in the martial arts. It could be the confident air about them. It could be the easy and efficient way they move. It could be the general good nature and positive outlook they have. It is probably all of that and more beyond. One day I hope to have that attitude and movement.

What makes a black belt so confident? Is it because they have encountered many physical and mental trials on the training floor and have overcome them? But how do they translate the training into their normal daily lives? We are complex individuals with the ability to compartmentalize portions of our lives. Many people will train hard and acquire the skills to achieve the belt, but still live their lives in confusion and disarray. Some exhibit supreme self control in their technique but lose control in their daily habits of eating, being honest, and living with integrity. Some can take the pain of a hit, but not the pain of rejection or an unkind word.

Personally, I use martial arts as well as my religious faith to help me be a better person. I also have the help of people around me that keep me in check and don’t allow me to go very far off course...thank goodness for those that care about us!

I believe that martial arts is for everyone. Unfortunately I do not believe that everyone that trains in the martial arts is a good person. Either the lessons have been compartmentalized or the lessons went over the heads of those individuals. But I feel it is our duty as martial artists to try to go above and beyond in our actions and treatment of others.

So how do I translate the mundane, day to day training into real life? That’s a tough one to answer, because I don’t know that I am fully educated in this process at this time. Instead, I will discuss aspects of martial arts and how I believe that it complements daily life.

In the dojo, we pay respect to the upper belts - we must remember to be humble in what we have and what we learned. We have never learned enough and we are never ‘done’ training. In life, we are never perfect. We must continue to educate ourselves in order to become more productive with the hope that eventually we will become more wise.

We listen and respect whomever is teaching us a technique even if we believe the technique is supposed to be done differently. This translates to open-mindedness as well as courtesy and respect for the individuals that we come in contact with. We should not always make it a point to correct others, sometimes, it is simply is not the right time or it can lead to hurting the feelings of the other individual.

No matter how many times we practice tournament technique one, we can always practice it a little more. Everything that we want to be good at takes effort and practice. If we want to be self confident, practice self confidence daily. If we want to be honest, practice living honesty daily.

Half-hearted training is useless. If you don’t put the effort into the kick, the kick will never get any higher, faster, or more powerful. You can see it in a student that has been training for years but doesn’t have a fast kick or punch. Only when we push ourselves to do better do we get better. Don’t do anything without meaning to do it. Give all of your effort to everything you do. Make every task important and pay attention to the little details. This works well in family relationships where the details do matter and your focus and attention can mean the world to the person you are spending time with.

Confidence generates success while cockiness generates contempt. Having a confident attitude allows the student to succeed as fears and doubts are minimized and placed on the back burner. The distraction of fear of failure is useless and destructive, and can cause you to lose your focus and concentration. Cockiness, on the other hand, leads to lack of preparation and potential failure. A cocky individual will not be helped by their peers and will be left alone to fail. We all need help, or might need the help of those around us. We should not taint our relationships by an arrogant attitude. We should be confident and yet humble when we interact with everyone around us.

The self-defense circle provides an opportunity for us to persevere when we become fatigued. How do we handle ourselves when we have given every ounce of our energy and yet the instructor calls out ‘30 more seconds’? Do we fall down on our face and give up? Or do we reach down deep inside and find the hidden extra reserve that the body withholds from us until we reach for it. Many don’t don’t even know it exists because they either have not encountered the fatigue or have quit before reaching deeply. How do we handle life’s difficulties? Do we fall on our face, or do we straighten our shoulders, raise our head and attack the problem?

When we train with our partners, it takes a great deal of patience and effort to give and receive the techniques. This is where selfishness can cause problems. We can’t be selfish in our training because we need our partners to help us get to the level that we are working towards. We can’t get their without also helping our partners get to their level best. We need to let our partners hit us as many times as we hit them, in fact it is better to receive than to give. Outside the dojo, we need to try to give more than we receive. Give your time, talents and energy to those around you. Everyone benefits, especially you.

Training is about balance. We have to know when to push ourselves and when to rest and heal. Some students suffer an injury yet ignore it to try to impress the instructor, only to cause the injury to become worse. Others will expend all their energy in the first 2 minutes of their test, and then have nothing left for the last 45 minutes. Others will hold on to their energies and never fully expend all their efforts for the important task. Knowing when to go all out and when to stop are very important. We must balance all aspects of our training and all aspects of our lives.

Thanks again for your time and talents. I truly feel blessed to teach and train with the best martial artists! Keep up the great work and keep training strong!

Sifu Kelly Corder

Don't Be Like An Oak Tree

2008-08-28T11:08:00.002-07:00

(Courtesy of inspirational author Harvey Mackay's daily column. For more info, go to: http://www.harveymackay.com)

Failure is all too common in business and in life. Remember, you can't live life with an eraser. You can't anticipate every possible problem, no matter how hard you try. But you can resolve to face challenges as they arise. Keep your mind wide open for solutions, listen to those around and under you, reprogram your brain for success and dig in.

A great oak tree grew on the bank of a stream. For one hundred years it had withstood the winds, but one day a violent storm felled the oak with a mighty crash into the raging river and carried it out toward the sea.

The oak came to rest on a shore where some reeds were growing. The tree wondered how the reeds still stood after the strong winds.

"I have stood up against many storms, but this one was too strong for me," the oak said.

"That's your problem," the reeds replied. "All these years you have stubbornly pitted your strength against the wind. You were too proud to yield a little. We, on the other hand, knowing our weakness, just bend and let the wind blow over us without trying to resist it. The harder the wind blows, the more we humble ourselves, and here we are!"

It is better to bend than to break. People who can bend and not break have the gift of resiliency that let them bounce back from adversity.

Mackay's Moral: Don't let hard times turn into end times. Let them lead to your best times.

Martial Arts Made Me A Better Person

2008-08-19T11:56:00.006-07:00

When people find out I am a martial artist I often see a surprised look on their face followed by “Wow, I would have never guessed.” My close friends think it’s an insult. I consider it a compliment.

For almost 10 years, I was the consummate Dojo Mom. I was very good at this – supporting my husband and sons, laundering gi’s, cooking for potlucks, tournaments, cheerleading, ohana events, karate movies, and so much more. Martial arts has impacted my family in such positive ways and it’s always been an honor to be a part of the experience. But I was always on the bench, never on the mat.

Sure, I had trained a little bit here and there. But I never made the real commitment to stick with it and go for black. In my mind, there was no way I would ever be THAT good at it.

Then, an instructor suggested I get off the bench and experience first hand what my family was doing.

Was he crazy? I certainly thought so! After all, I was overweight, uncoordinated, beyond non-athletic, clumsy, 37 years old and quite frankly, afraid of getting hit. I made up every excuse imaginable. He smiled and said I “owed it to my kids” to try it. “Martial arts is for everyone,” he said.

Did he not realize how safe it is on the bench? You don’t sweat when you are cheering. You don’t get taken down when carrying water bottles. You don’t feel the anxiety of testing when you are watching on the bench. It’s easier to remember techniques when it’s not you. Trust me: it’s safe on the bench.

Out of respect, I decided to try a class. I thought I would be the one student my instructor would realize he couldn’t help. We set a date and time and I invited two other friends so I wouldn’t have to go it alone.

I almost cancelled about 25 times. As I walked into the dojo I was as anxious as I was on my first date with Sifu Kelly. How many times had I entered before and not been nervous? Too many to count! The class consisted of stretching and basic warm-ups. In terms of numbers, I did not do an enormous amount of pushups (maybe 5?), crunches, squats (still don’t) and I discovered muscles I did not even know existed (still do). We learned basic self-defense techniques and before I knew it, the 45- minute class period was over.

I was hooked. I felt empowered that my mind was really able to control my body! Sweating felt great! I was able to experience a bit of what my family endured. It was awesome! My friends felt the same way. All four of us signed up.

Of that class, I am the only one that had the desire, dedication and discipline necessary to get my Black Belt. I have seen a lot of fellow students come and go.

Becoming a black belt is one of my crowning achievements. Why? Because martial arts represents EVERYTHING outside of my comfort zone. I overcame my biggest fears through my training. Are my kicks the highest in class? NO. Have I finished learning? NO. Can I knock out the most pushups in class? NO. It’s not about that.

Martial arts has made me stronger physically and mentally. I routinely push the limits of what I can do in all aspects of my life. On my knees every day, I punch the mat and announce that my mind controls my body, not vice versa. My martial arts training has made me a better person.

I used to lead the cheering during tests. Now I have my own fans.

Instead of just watching my family from the bench, I train right next to them.

I no longer just attend class, I teach it.

I hit as many times as I get hit. I can hold my own in a self-defense situation.

Boxing and karate movies are my choices on date night.

I am not just married to a black belt. My husband is too.

And when I feel like I have nothing left to give – in any life situation – I remember how I mustered up just a little more effort to finish a particularly hard training session. I think about how I relied on nothing but desire when I couldn’t get the technique right. I remember how I did not let a broken foot keep me from testing. I think about the countless times I came back to class when every single muscle hurt from the last training session. I remember how I never quit even though my body had given up during the last three minutes of my tests.

Martial arts improved my life, my thinking, my family, and my heart.

25 years ago I would have never thought I would be a Simou, working side-by-side with Sifu in our own dojo. It’s been an amazing journey that keeps on getting better. Becoming a black belt made it all possible.

So, when someone shows their surprise and disbelief at my martial arts achievements, I am happy. I know I don’t look like the “typical” martial artist. But one thing is for sure…martial arts is for everyone. Even me.

Simou Jen

CrossPit Training Starts at Kaju AZ!

2008-08-12T12:08:00.008-07:00

With the dojo remodel 95% completed (still finishing the personal training and fitness area), Kaju AZ has started our CrossPit Training classes. Based on Sifu Kelly’s Pit Training with Kumu John Hackleman, the classes are 30-minute bursts of cardio and conditioning that blend anaerobic, aerobic, plyometric, strength training, and calisthenics.

The Pit and Kajukenbo Arizona share the “genuine family feel” that Kumu has emphasized since forming The Pit in 1986. We strive to maintain the old school toughness while keeping it upbeat and fun. Balancing our family-focused dojo with real world martial art skills and fitness is our top priority.

We offer four classes per day, Monday through Thursday, of the specialized CrossPit classes and so far the reaction has been very enthusiastic. All belt ranges can benefit from the intense training as everyone can work at their own level. Our traditional program students are required to attend a minimum of two classes per week. Our goal is for all our students to achieve peak physical fitness and continuing the mind, body and spirit connection.

We invite non-martial artists to come and try our CrossPit program. No one will be disappointed! CrossPit only memberships are available as well.

Thank you to Kumu Hackleman, his better half, Jennifer and the entire Pit Team for helping us achieve our goal of offering the very best in martial arts and elite fitness training.

Dojo Remodel Almost Done!

2008-08-05T16:50:00.005-07:00

Thank you to all our wonderful students and supporters for all your help in this project that has been in the works for over 6 months! We have had our first classes in our new space and we love it!

We anticipate having everything in place when our new schedule kicks in on August 11th. We are on our regular schedule this week (even though everything is super dusty!)

Keep watching for updates and thanks again for all your support!

Sifu & Simou Corder

Kaju AZ Celebrates Two Wonderful Years!

2008-07-23T18:42:00.007-07:00

(Kaju AZ students sign the mirror before the demolition!)

It’s been an emotional few days for me. Being the Head Instructor has been fun, challenging and I have loved working more closely with all our wonderful students. But I miss Sifu and Mr. Nic (and I know many of you feel the same way!). Sifu had a few minutes of cell service atop of Mt. Baldy earlier this week – his first question was how was the dojo! He expressed how much he misses not only being in class but seeing all our students in action.

August 1st marks our 2-year anniversary. It is funny that two years ago at this time we were creating the dojo over a 4-day weekend.

Sifu and I started Kaju AZ because of our passion about the positive impact martial arts has had on our lives and those around us. It continues to be a labor of love and we had no idea how much joy we would have from this adventure! We love and appreciate each of our students. Each of you brings a unique energy to the dojo. We especially love the family feel of our dojo – a true Ohana – and hope you all feel it too.

Our third year is going to be so exciting! Our 3,200 total square feet has been 6 months in the making! We have increased the number of classes, added Pit conditioning classes (for our students and the public) and specialized training classes, made personal training available and maybe most importantly – added another bathroom! We are excited that we can accommodate even more friends and families at our tests!

Our first black belt test and promotion will be during our third year. We hope to continue to focus on serving our community through self-defense clinics and seminars as well as service projects. We look forward to new training opportunities and learning and sharing more knowledge with everyone. We hope to see many new faces and students at Kaju AZ. We know that our next year will be filled with successes – as a dojo and as individuals – and it is exciting!

Allow me to take this opportunity to say: THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts – from Sifu, Simou, Mr. Nic and Cameron – for bringing joy, love and fun into our lives. It’s an honor and pleasure to work with each of you! Happy Anniversary, Kaju AZ!

Simou Jen

The Ripple Effect of Service Can Be Felt Now and Later

2008-07-16T14:17:00.006-07:00

Sifu and Mr. Nic left this morning for Philmont scout ranch. It’s a great, often life-changing experience offered through the Boy Scouts of America, a fantastic organization. They will be hiking about 125 miles over 10 days. On some days, they change elevation in a range of 5,000 feet. They will get rain, heat, follow the strict rules of no-impact hiking, eat a lot of crackers and cheese (these items don't weigh much) and live within a bear triangle every night.

This will be the fourth time that Sifu has made this trip since 1999. The hardest part is that he is totally cut off – no phones or email – and away from his businesses and family. The leaders pay their own way and usually miss at least two weeks of work. Sifu is thrilled that he can finally take his son on this trip which often turns teenagers into men as they leave the world behind and get back to basic survival and beauty of the outdoors.

Sifu and I are often asked “Why they heck would do you do this? Why do you spend the money? How can you sacrifice your work and family time?” The answer is simple: performing a service to others has huge payoffs, both immediate and in the future. I am reminded of a title of a book I read recently (and highly recommend): “It’s Better to Build Boys Than Mend Men," and this this one of the real benefits that services to others has to offer our community.

Service to others is so important and so often ignored as we focus on ourselves and our own problems in our daily lives. Sometimes it is so hard to think about someone else and their needs when ours seem so overwhelming. This is precisely the time that we must remember to help someone else! Nothing gives us better perspective, understanding and focus than service to others.

I am not saying that one must desert your family and head to the mountains of New Mexico! Little things have big payouts too! A helping hand pulling weeds, a meal for a busy family, an hour of babysitting…these are simple things that that mean a lot to others. We receive the added benefit of feeling good about doing something good.

Kaju AZ would not be the awesome dojo that it is today without the helping hands of many people! The initial build-out, the ongoing remodeling, rides to and from the dojo, teaching in class, picking up meals, polishing the floors, our self-defense clinics and simply introducing your friends and families to Kaju AZ are all examples of service. Know that all your efforts are so appreciated and more importantly, will continue to have an impact many years into the future.

Sifu and I are driven by the positive impact that martial arts has on people. We have the benefit of seeing it in our children who have been training for many many years. We know that each of you will see the same impact on your children and yourselves in the future!

We have such an example in our dojo…Mr. David Booth, better known as Sifu’s right hand man at Redrock Software, Amber’s hubby and Alex and Ryan’s dad. David was on one of the first Philmont trips that Sifu went on. He was a typical teenage boy obsessed with himself and all things that boys like! The service of leaders on his behalf helped make him into the outstanding father, husband, employee, and citizen that he is today. And he definitely pays it forward.

The dojo is closed Thursday, July 24th – August 1st for the remodeling project. We encourage each of you, individually or as a family, to perform a little service over the break. We would love to hear about your efforts and how great it made you feel.

Thank you for your continued service and support of Kaju AZ. Our Ohana is strong and we look forward to many years together!

Simou Jen

Dojo Expansion Has Finally Begun!

2008-07-11T17:40:00.007-07:00

We are so pleased to announce that the long awaited dojo expansion (6 months in the making) has begun! Our two neighbors have moved out and the actual tear down and rebuild has started. Thank you to all of those who have signed up to help - we will be in touch. We are excited about our our additional 1,700 square feet, new schedule and expanded offerings! Watch for more progress!

Reflections on Hawaii and Kajukenbo

2008-07-08T14:16:00.010-07:00

WOW! The Corder family is back from a whirlwind trip to Hawaii! As I download the 862 pictures (and that was after I organized and discarded), I am having time to reflect on the many aspects of our wonderful trip.

First, thank you to all our students for their support while we were gone. Closing the dojo is always a hard thing for us to do, but this trip was important and valuable to us personally and as a dojo.

It was a real treat to visit Hawaii again. Sifu and I first visited Oahu 20 years ago for our honeymoon. My perspective on so many things changed being a parent and martial artist now, as opposed to the honeymoon-bliss experienced in 1988.

We celebrated the 61st birthday of Kajukenbo by visiting the Palama Settlement. It isn’t a spectacular building but knowing what we knew made it special to us. Sifu and I have had the privilege to visit many historical sites – sites of religious, familial and patriotic significance - all over the world. There is a certain reverence you can feel in these places and we certainly felt it at the Palama Settlement. Imagining the Black Belt Society meeting and piecing together the early material of Kajukenbo, gave us a true appreciation for all that Kaju material we practice.

We spent a day in Maui and visited with Sigung Kailani Koa and Sijo Emperado. Being with Sigung Koa is always awesome as her enthusiasm and joyful spirit spills out of her! She is dedicated to her family and Kajukenbo Ohana and sets an awesome example for all of us to follow.

We brought lunch to Sijo and enjoyed visiting outside with him. At 82 his mind is still sharp although his body aging (getting old stinks!). I am always amazed to see our Kajukenbo leaders’ hands…you can tell they have a history of hard-hitting and training. Sijo has a gentle demeanor in spite of all the hard-core training stories we have heard and read. It was truly an honor to spend time with him.

Our Hawaii visit also included Pearl Harbor and the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial. It’s a unique place and maybe it feels even more special to be from Arizona. It was remarkable to me that 37 sets of brothers served and died on the U.S.S. Arizona. As a mother of two brothers, I found that very emotional and I was overwhelmed with gratitude for the soldiers who died and the families left behind. Another amazing fact is that many of the U.S.S. Arizona survivors have had their remains entombed at the memorial. This desire to be with their “brothers in arms” is inspiring. What an incredible example of the Ohana spirit!

When we begin our classes, we salute the flag. This trip to the U.S.S. Arizona reminded me of exactly why this is so important – we all need to strive to show our respect and gratitude to all those who have made it possible for us to practice martial arts freely in our country. What a privilege! In early Hawaii, martial arts were not allowed and the traditions were carried on via Hula dancing. Additionally, women were not even allowed to Hula! How poignant for me to be a female black belt and be able to freely practice Kajukenbo!

Perhaps the pinnacle of our trip was our visit to the island of Kauai, known as the garden island. And that is no joke! It is absolutely beautiful and rural – no high-rises or the mass numbers of people as in Oahu. It was a perfect setting to study Lua with Ôlohe Solomon Kaihewalu. It was a great cultural event as we learned more about Hawaii and Lua and it provided a great boost to see that hard-hitting and really cool self-defense tools! I love the sound of hard hits on gi’s and plan to do more of that at Kaju AZ! (Train Strong to Remain Strong!)

Hawaii was a renewal for Sifu and I and we continue to be excited about the upcoming changes and growth at Kaju AZ! It is an honor to be a part of each of your lives and we are grateful for the opportunities and special relationships!
Humbly,
Simou Jen

Sifu + The Pit = Better Kaju AZ!

2008-06-28T20:14:00.008-07:00

Sifu has called several times during his breaks at the Pit this weekend. He is always excited to tell me everything he has accomplished and learned, and especially grateful for the short break. He is having a blast learning new drills, nutrition info and pushing his body to the limits. He is energized and very excited to bring it all back to our Kaju AZ students.

One thing is for sure: Sifu loves The Pit! His time away from the dojo (and family and work) is hard for him but his sacrifices make Kaju AZ that much better! Watch for more updates from the Pit at http://www.thepit.tv.

Have a great week! Sifu and I look forward to sharing the details of our trip to visit Sijo, the Lua seminar and more next week!

Simou Jen

It's Not All About the Numbers!

2008-06-25T11:52:00.007-07:00

During the black belt training with the Lim's a few weeks ago, Aunty Patrice pointed out a statement made by a student. She said, “One of my students one time made a statement that was very profound, he said, it’s not about Grab Art number one. It’s more than just the number, it’s the repetition in the training that prepares us to be ready to use the elements that we have learned.” We (the various black belts in the training) were lined up, looking forward, standing at attention. She then asked me directly if I knew who said it. I paused because I didn’t want to say it was me (what if she didn’t think it was me?). She then said, “You should know, because it was you, Corder.”

We start by teaching front grabs one and two. We introduce the student to the technique, naming it by its number. Is it any wonder that students from that point on focus on what number they have and what numbers they need for the next test? I contribute to it by asking during pre-tests, ‘What numbers do you need?’ We do need a common nomenclature to refer the techniques so that everyone is on the same page; and for this the numbers work very well indeed.

I have for a long time held the belief that our training has never been about the number itself. In real life, I will use whatever elements will work for a specific situation. The situation will depend on the distance between me and the attacker, the attacker’s size, the weapon the attacker is holding, the bystanders that I might be standing next too, etc. The variables make it so that you can’t start at number one and fast forward through the numbers looking for the one that fits the situation. Real life won’t give you the luxury of time to decide the technique that best fits the situation. Real life requires quick analysis of the situation and then action. The physical training prepares our bodies to move quickly and efficiently after we have made the determination of the course of action that is required. The physical training also prepares our minds in several ways. If we have never taken a hit, we don’t know how to handle the hit when it does come. During a real situation, we will become tired more quickly than we would in a training class. A real situation causes adrenaline and a change in breathing patterns. This gives an energy boost initially, but quickly we can become fatigued. Our training allows us to handle the fatigue. This is one of the main reasons why we train hard.

Before I continue, I would like to point that sure, there are schools that never take you to the edge mentally and physically. And there are schools that never make contact. This is not a service to the students. There are even schools that might actually be too rough...this also is not a service to the students. After all, we do want to train together tomorrow, right? Where is the balance found? I’ll discuss this is in an upcoming message.

Rigorous training allows the student to become hardened mentally and physically. Continuous activity and drilling the techniques makes the techniques second nature. Now the student is ready for the next level. This is the level where there is no such thing as numbers. This is where the student experiments with various combinations and begins to develop their own favorite combinations that fit with their unique body style. This level is only reached after previous levels have been successfully accomplished. You cannot start at this level without the mind and body having been properly prepared.

Some students will want to jump straight to this level. Instructors should caution these students to first get the basics down and make sure they have the numbers as if they are second nature. This is required first before true progression can occur.

Some students will seek the numbers as if they were awards or trophies that can be collected. Having been shown the number and being able to superficially repeat the technique does not constitute mastery of that technique. Students that are simply collecting numbers need to be redirected back to number one and prove their level of mastery of the numbers starting at the beginning with number 1.

Students that have trouble remembering their numbers fall into two categories: those that have not let the techniques take root in the physical memory portion of their brain, or that do not have a proper retrieval method for gaining access to their physical memories. This of course assumes that the student is properly practicing their material on a repeated basis in and out of the dojo (without proper practice, there are no physical memories to access).

Part of the Instructor’s job as they work with students is to help them to make up meaningful names that can be associated with the numbers. This aids in the retrieval process. But the student must still make the association between the number and the name and the physical action, which is done by repeated practice.

Instructors should teach the numbers because they are the basics of what must be mastered. In your own training, spend time contemplating your unique qualities and apply this to your training. As you work in the circle, practice your numbers and also practice just letting it flow. As I tell the Black Belts, “Do not soften your hits too much.” Doing so weakens you and your training partner. But do make adjustments for the belt level of the person you are training with.

And remember, don’t cause injury! Hit hard without damaging – but learn exactly how much force is needed to actually do damage. At the end of a session, a student should know that they have just trained with a black belt. Not just because of the power of the hits, but because of the mastery of control. Nothing says Black Belt more than a fist coming full speed that stops at the top layers of skin and doesn’t cause damage.

Students: Know your numbers. Instructors: Teach the numbers. Everyone: Do not get trapped by the numbers. Martial arts is more than just the numeric techniques we use for organized dojo training and testing. Remember: Martial Artists are leaders and are examples to everyone we meet and train with. Whether you want to be an example or not, you ARE an example. So let’s be GOOD examples.

As always, Train Strong to Remain Strong!

-Sifu Kelly Corder

Sifu's Message: Martial Arts is a GIFT!

2008-06-20T09:10:00.006-07:00

Earlier this month I had the opportunity to train with other black belts and Professor George Lim. The training was rigorous with physical activity with some rest periods that were designed for some introspection and discussion. I used the time to open my mind up to any ideas or methods that I could bring back to our school for implementation. I did not learn any new earth-shattering techniques or concepts. And I wasn’t expecting to either. But a few thoughts did come to mind.

The first thought was how much of martial arts is a gift. It is truly not a commodity that you can walk in to any convenience store and come out with the techniques and skills of the type of martial arts that we train in. It is the culmination of experience and time spent working with students in groups and in one on one sessions. It is the sweat and tears of past experience coming forth in the present and delivered in such a way as to have the most impact and the most benefit that a person can possibly receive. Martial arts changes lives: it gives those that need confidence the tools they need to stand up straight and speak with a loud an clear voice; it generates enthusiasm for living a more fit life; it provides the means for some to be able to protect themselves or a loved one in a potentially dangerous situation.

As I was relearning a weapons form called “Staff Set” flashes of previous training sessions more than 8 years ago came into my mind. The emotions were overpowering and at several points I was choked up and nearly in tears. I could remember specific instances and the instruction that was being given to me by three different instructors on several different occasions. I could remember their exact words and tone of voice, and the patience they had with me as I was learning. I picked the form back up very quickly, but as I was repeatedly performing it on my own, the memories continued to come back. Finally, I stopped and it came to me: Staff Set was given to me with patience, and yes even love. It was beautifully wrapped and I did enjoy it. But it has sat unused in a closet for many years. After blowing the dust off and polishing it back up to a nice shine, I think I can properly make use of the gift. I believe that the best use of this gift is to 1) first show those that gave it to me how much I appreciate it by not letting it go unused, 2) gifting it to someone that will do likewise, and 3) letting my students know where the gift came from in the first place.

Instructors and students should be aware of how much this art is a gift. Your instructor is gifting you with his knowledge, time, patience, energy, and compassion. No amount of money or monthly fees can truly pay for the gifts that are given and received. Sure, a monthly fee is charged, this pays for the location to train, but hardly any more than that. The gifts of the knowledge and skills are extra special because they are so very unique to each instructor. Each individual instructor has a unique perspective and training experience in the martial arts. Much of the knowledge that we receive and pass on to students is done through many hours of sweat, and even tears. It is earned by hard work and sometimes slow progress. It is earned by humility as we put aside our existing biases and try to see through the instructor’s eyes while the instructor is trying to see through our eyes.

The word of the month for May was compassion. How appropriate! Treat your skills as the gifts they are. Remember them and be thankful. Everyone that has spent time with you in increasing your skills should be respected for that time and effort expended on your behalf. I now more fully understand why we salute our ‘elders’ in the dojo. And I appreciate all our students and their families – for allowing me to give this gift to them. I learn more than I teach and am a better person because of the impact of each of you in my life.

I would like to thank my instructors that have spent time and energy on my behalf to help me become a better martial artist:

I learned my basics from my Kenpo Professor and his wife: Professor George Lim and Aunty Patrice Lim. For the first several years all of my kata that I learned came from Aunty Patrice. I did not recognize the privilege of that at the time. Looking back and knowing how exact and dedicated she is to the perfection of the art, I now understand what a privilege it was. Professor, of course, influenced me in a lot of ways...most importantly, to relax - and sometimes I actually do.

I learned my Kajukenbo from Professor Sal Banuelos. Although I am not under the NAK umbrella, I recognize the knowledge that he taught me and recognize him as the very talented martial artist that he is. I was very fortunate to find NAK when I did, and was able to continue my training. It was through this process that I learned that I wanted to teach. And I am thankful to him for the many good memories that were made with NAK. NAK's Sihing Henry and Sifu Chava are also talented martial artists and instructors that I have had the opportunity to train with and learn from: I am thankful for that period of my training.

Kumu Hackleman's Pit training has provided me training seminars that truly help me to improve our school's MMA program in a very unique way. He has taught me so much already and I appreciate our affiliation.

Peppered throughout my classes, students will often hear statements like: 'my Kaju Professor says...' or 'Kumu Hackleman taught that...' Our recognition of where our knowledge comes from closes the circle on the gifts that we have been given.

Obviously, I have not yet perfected my art. I look forward to many more years of learning, growing and teaching. I appreciate not only all my instructors but my students as well for their willingness to accept the gifts I am now able to pass on to them.

As always, Train Strong to Remain Strong!
Sifu Kelly Corder