Monthly Archives: July 2015

Branding vs. System in Martial Arts

Traditional Martial Arts vs. MMA

The internet bombards us with all of the different martial arts, each with their unique branding and message. They are all about ‘lifestyles’ and each art or style seems to have an associated ‘lifestyle’, whether Tai Chi, Muay Thai, BJJ, MMA, Krav Maga, Kali or whatever, they all seem very distinct in their culture, approach and message.

A recent article by Rickson Gracie (read HERE) criticises modern MMA. He says it is basically a thug culture, and you would not send your child to MMA, however, BJJ was different because it taught positive values, respect etc. I believe there is some truth in this, but disagree on a number of levels. Continue reading

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Traditional Combat Art for Modern World: Lion’s Roar San Da

Traditional Combat Art for Modern World: Lion’s Roar San DaI will tell you right away: THIS is the book the Chinese martial arts were waiting for. This is the kind that today’s TCMA needs most. This is the bridge from the past to the future. Enter David A. Ross’s latest book – Lion’s Roar San Da: Combined Old and New Methods.

The book answers the commonly asked question: What is better – modern MMA, or traditional martial arts? Spoiler: The answer is yes.

Everybody who has spent some time researching the legends and history of Chinese martial arts knows that ALL (Chinese) martial arts are Jaap Ga, „[mix of] various families“. Just look at today’s Hung Kyun, which was called „Modern Hung Kyun“ (San Hung Kyun) already in Wong Fei Hung’s time: Continue reading

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