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How to Use a Wooden Dummy for Martial Arts Training

July 15, 2020 Comments Off

Shroud of Mystery
The kung fu training tool often called, a “wooden dummy,” is surrounded by mystique and misunderstanding due to lack of good quality information. Read further to find out what the dummy’s real form and function is all about.
What It Looks Like
A wooden dummy is usually made from a 5 or 6 foot long hardwood log that is 9 inches in diameter. It has three arms; 2 at chest level that point away from the center, and 1 arm at bellybutton level pointing straight out from the log. There is also a leg included that should be at, or just above, knee height. Wooden dummies are either mounted on a wall, or supported by a freestanding framework depending on your available space.
What a Wooden Dummy Isn’t
A wooden dummy is not used for strength training, or solely toughing your forearms through hard strikes like you would use on a makiwara. The dummy is not a magical device that will instantly make you a martial art master like Bruce Lee. It also isn’t a tool to show off with. If you train with the wrong mindset, you’re not going to get the results that are possible with it.
What a Wooden Dummy Is
A wooden dummy can be an extremely valuable training tool and partner if approached in the right way. It never gets tired. It won’t get mad if you get a good shot in, nor will it sucker punch you (but will still knock you around sometimes). And it is a training partner that has better defense than any human being could possibly have. The arms and leg are laid out in a particular fashion that mimic the best angles of defense used in close quarters combat. If you learn to use the dummy properly, you will be well versed in how to deal with a strong defensive opponent.
So How Do You Train?
You want to train with the mindset that you are developing an understanding of the basics of close quarters combat. These elements are composed of angles of attack, connection sensitivity, proper distances for various attacks, and developing the ability to execute simultaneous actions which could include attacking, blocking and kicking all at the same time. So while you’re training with the wooden dummy, be sure to remind yourself the goal is not to abuse the dummy and build tough forearms by hitting it hard. Instead, treat the tool like the precision instrument it is, and use it as a laboratory to cultivate your skills with a partner that will never call in sick.…

Self Defense Tips – Be Aware of Your Surroundings Walking to Your Vehicle

July 2, 2020 Comments Off

Being aware of your surroundings as you are walking to your vehicle is one of the most important things in your day-to-day life to protect yourself and avoid a self defense situation. If you park in a garage where you work and are assigned a space, become aware of the vehicles parked around your vehicle. If possible, get to know the other vehicle owners. New friends are always a positive thing in your life. You will be more conscious of an out of place vehicle or person in your area if you know those who should be there at any given time.
Have your keys ready as you approach your vehicle. Taking time to find your keys when you reach the vehicle presents an opportunity for an attack. If you feel you are being followed as you walk to your vehicle, do not go to your vehicle. Continue to a populated area and summon help. It might seem like a good idea to get in the vehicle and lock the doors but if an assailant has some type of weapon they could smash a window and you would be in an undesirable position to defend yourself.
When and where possible back your vehicle into parking spaces. This allows for a quick getaway if the need arises. It also gives you an opportunity to check backup lights, brake lights, turn signals, etc. if there is a wall behind your vehicle. It also allows you a clear view to see if someone is approaching your vehicle after you have gotten into the vehicle. It is much easier to see out the windshield than it is out of the rearview mirrors.
These same ideas apply if you park in an open area or a garage at your place of residence or at the local shopping mall or grocery store. Self defense is an ongoing process of awareness of the situation you are currently in. The more you are able to be aware of your surroundings the better you can protect yourself, your property and others.…

Strength Training For Mixed Martial Arts

May 14, 2020 Comments Off

Mixed Martial Arts training is tough. There is no doubt about it and one of the hardest things to do is build genuine strength. But having a lot of strength will allow you to explode on your opponent, will increase your punching power, will make you better in the clinch and on the ground.
One thing that I want to point out here. We are not talking about doing traditional bodybuilding. We are looking for STRENGTH here not size. Just because you are big does not mean that you are necessarily strong. Remember that the key is strength not size. We are not looking to become the next Arnold Swarchenegger. We are looking to become the next Anderson Silva.
So where do we start? Well, the first and most obvious place is with your core. Your core is your abs, back muscles and all the surrounding muscles. These are the muscles that you use to generate torque on your punches, use your hips to escape… well, pretty much you use them for everything. That’s why they are vital.
One thing to look out for when doing weight training is that, unless you are doing so for weight class reasons, you really don’t need to get big. Large muscles use more oxygen and will cause you to tire out in a fight faster. Ever notice how quickly heavyweights gas out compared to the lighter weight classes. This is because their large muscles are demanding tons of oxygen to fuel them. We want to stay away from that. Remember, strength is key but not size.…

Learning Guitar: The Best Article On The Topic Is Here

April 29, 2020 Comments Off

The guitar holds interest for people from all walks of life. If you want to learn guitar or wish to become a more talented player, this is the place for you.

Take formal lessons if you can. Though many people have taught themselves guitar, just as you can, you might want someone objective to watch you play. A good teacher can critique your style, but can also give you suggestions to make yourself better. This will also give you the opportunity to ask questions.

Stay motivated. Set short-term goals and long-term dreams for learning to play the guitar. It can also be helpful to practice with a fellow guitar player. If you’ve practiced every day for a week, reward yourself. Keep in mind that things worth doing will never be that easy.

Although this may be obvious to you, be sure you purchase a guitar if you’re wishing to play one well. Without a guitar, regular practice is difficult at best. Make sure the guitar is tuned to avoid hearing wrong sounds that are actually right.

You need to learn about musical notation, as well as guitar tabs. Musical theory can help you understand each scale and how different chords work. Learn each string’s note name and fret note. This is very helpful when you learn new melodies.

Remember that practicing guitar should always be fun. You should be learning to play because you’re passionate about it. Don’t make it into a something ugly and stressful. When you have that attitude, you may develop such a strong dislike to it that you may think about quitting. Continue practicing with music you like.

Get yourself a metronome. One of the biggest hurdles for a new guitar player to get over is keeping time. Metronomes are great for keeping you on track. By practicing regularly, you will have no trouble keeping time without a metronome.

Learn tunes in different keys. This helps you get used to certain chords. You will better understand music as well. The more you know, the better musician you’ll be.

Buy a metronome to improve your sound. You can improve your ability to keep a rhythm and keep your timing on target with a metronome. This prevents struggling with proper pacing since you can begin it slowly and hasten it as you get better. You will probably find that using a metronome is very beneficial to you honing your skills.

Try some useful exercises for strengthening fingers. Some chords require fancy handwork, and that is possible only when you can control the strings with your fingers. Be sure to practice some exercises and techniques that help make your hands stronger to improve your playing ability.

Master moving from one specific chord to another with ease. Dedicate a part of your practice time each day to this alone. Having the ability to transition from chord to chord skillfully is a good way to keep your sound tight.

As you can see, many things go into playing the guitar. There is much that you have to learn. The tips from above can help you become a better player and improve your skill at playing. So take what you have learned here, and start playing as soon as possible.…

What You Need To Know About Arts And Crafts

March 24, 2020 Comments Off

Everyone can do arts and crafts; some can even make it their job. No matter what you want to make, you can make something wonderful. Learning everything out there about your hobby is crucial, so begin with the advice in the article below.

If you are doing crafts with children, prepare for a mess. If that is a source of stress, you can cover your work surface with newspaper or butcher paper to catch the mess. Washable markers are another option.

If you cannot find the supplies you want at affordable prices, try thrift shops. They often have items which your creativity can turn into a project. Be sure to check back as inventory constantly changes.

It’s important to remember that you should not have one set idea in mind as to how the finished project should look when doing crafts with children. The perfect examples inhibit their imagination and hold them up to a standard. You want to focus on them being creative instead. For instance, never tell a child that an animal must have two eyes, a nose and a mouth. Instead, let them decide what the face should look like. Their thoughts and ideas are important, so allow them to be a part of the final execution of the project.

Look online for ideas for crafting. You will literally find thousands of websites that have ideas that will spark your imagination. No matter who is doing the project or how old they are, you can find something that you can all do by looking online.

Arts and crafts can be fun for kids of any age. If there is a bunch of children in your midst, think of a project that everyone can enjoy. For fun and creative ideas you can use your friends, family or the internet as resources to help you come up with something enjoyable to do.

Look in your kitchen for supplies. You are sure to find lots of interesting items there that can be used. Things alike metal cans, glass jars, and tin foil are just a few examples. Even dried beans and pasta can be crafting material.

Make sure that you have all the supplies before starting a project. It is easier to complete your project when you have everything you need handy. Write down everything you need beforehand, then run out and purchase those items.

Create presents for loved ones. You can customize your gifts to suit recipients, and give them on special occasions. People will appreciate the things you make with your own two hands so much more than store-bought items.

Use arts and crafts as a way to teach your children. Get them to do math, learn science or appreciate art.

Make sure that you allow yourself plenty of time for your arts and crafts. You will not get good results if you rush yourself. Quality means taking our time. If you don’t give the time a project needs, you won’t be giving it justice. Make the time to accomplish it right, and the results will speak for themselves.

You can now create all types of things, and you can do it better using the tips you’ve read. Use each to turn your projects into masterpieces. Eventually, you will see your projects becoming better.…

Mixed Martial Art Training 101

November 23, 2019 Comments Off

This article is all about mixed martial art training, but first let me tell you what MMA really are. It can be defined as a fighting style in which the fighter is allowed a wide range of moves and techniques, which are a mixture of traditional as well as non-traditional fighting styles. Therefore, it’s the use of both the grappling and striking moves and techniques while standing as well as on ground in competitions so that all the different backgrounds could compete on a single platform. In simple words mixed martial arts can be defined as the blend of diverse fighting styles that creates an all-round good fighter.
MMA have started gaining more and more popularity, especially with the entry of pay per view reach and now many people all around the globe are interested in getting mixed martial arts training in order to become an all-round fighter.
Why are this is form of fighting becoming so popular? Well, you cannot be called a great fighter, if your expertise is in just one style of fighting. In order to be called an expert you have to be a master of different types of styles of fighting and therefore, the need of learning martial arts training enters everyone’s mind.
There are many different styles of fighting out of which some are wrestling, boxing, kick boxing, Brazilian Jujitsu, Muay Thai, Karate, Kung Fu and what not. Hence the more experienced a fighter becomes the closer he is to become a great fighter. It is really important to employ MMA in your training as well as against opponents and according to many fighters who have gone through many phases of fighting, mixed martial arts training is much harder than actually fighting.…

Scapes and Forms: Zaria Art School, Sustaining the Rudiments in Contemporary Art Practice

October 30, 2019 Comments Off

In this year 2011, January 22 would probably remain a unique day, not for any other reason but for the fact that, it ushers an event that has historical connotation to Nigerian artists based in Zaria. On that Saturday morning around 10:00 am, amidst the harmattan weather with its penetrating cold wind which has little or no respect for people wearing light denims, a teeming number of artists were brought together to partake in an art workshop titled: Scapes and Forms. The workshop pulled artists from their studios into an open environment where creative talents/endeavors were artistically harnessed in a delightful manner to produce different forms of visual representations. The occasion was more or less like a midpoint for both lecturers and students especially of the twin-departments (Fine Arts and Industrial Design) in ABU Zaria, to refresh their artistic skills but largely in various two-dimensional forms: painting and drawing. Over sixty artists, who responded to workshop with enthusiasm, gathered in front of Samaru market, Zaria, to artistically take the Scapes and Forms of the activities going on in the area.
Shortly before the commencement of the workshop, Dr. G.G. Duniya, who happened to be the lead facilitator of the workshop (assisted by Mr. Lasisi Lamidi), addressed participants before declaring it open. In his address, Dr. Duniya highlighted the essence as well as the purpose of the workshop, and what it (the workshop) intends to achieve: “This painting and drawing workshop is intended to serve as an avenue for creative minds to interact and share drawing and painterly ideas, away from the normal studio setting. The workshop is also expected to expose professionals and student artists to the numerous possibilities in art, using varied media and techniques or experiments”. He concluded by saying “we advice you to feel free and express yourselves in the Zaria Art School’s freedom of expression, using forms before you and the materials that suits your creative impulse”.
Immediately after the address, easels were mounted by some artists while other artists took strategic sitting positions that best suit their views. But more interestingly, cars brought by some participants to the venue were automatically turned into stabilizing platforms for keeping drawing boards while the workshop goes on. On the other hand, a good number of participants were seen squatting on the ground with their drawing boards, taking artistic view of their creative taste. The venue was an utmost contradiction to studio environment as it offers seeming challenges but mostly to the advantage of the participants. For example, the traffic of people in the market at the other side of the road, the moving vehicles and cyclists as well as sounds/noises generated by the traffics, contributed in shaping the aura of the workshop’s venue into a disorganized and noisy environment. This is unlike studio situation which is usually calm and serene; however, the venue was probably the best for that kind of workshop since the participants of the workshop later converted the inherent challenges therein, into creative opportunities by displaying their artistic talents in various two-dimensional forms.
In terms of attendance, the participants of the Scapes and Forms’s workshop, cut across undergraduate and postgraduate students of both Fine Arts and Industrial Design departments, as well as lecturers in the Department of Fine Arts, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. The uniqueness of the workshop was not only because it was held in an out-door environment that stimulates high creative impulse for exciting artistic designs, it also lies in the fact that some students, probably for the first time, find themselves drawing or painting along side with their lecturers (professionals). This scenario was highly favoured by mutual interactivity between the two (lecturers and students) with jokes and funny comments to keep the venue lively while the workshop progresses.
Another factor which contributed to adding more flavour in the workshop was the open thematization “Scapes and Forms” which paved way for diverse artistic creations. In view of that, it was common to see interplay of different media in different styles in the works the participating artists. Hence, one artist is painting while another artist sitting next is drawing in charcoal. But most importantly, the open theme favoured creative diversity on the part of the participating artists especially on the choice of art expression which was generally seen in their works. For example, Dr. Ken Okoli opt to take the photographic aspect of the event, while Mr. Wesley (a lecturer in sculpture) decides to reveal the other side of his artistic flair in painting.
Call it a Zaria affair; but for those who were present can agree with the writer that it goes beyond that point as the presence of artists from other art schools attended. For example, the presence of Mr. Tony Emodi and Mr. Emmanuel Eroka both from Yaba College of Technology, …

Solid Advice For Your Arts And Crafts Projects

April 26, 2019 Comments Off

Are you considering starting a cool arts and crafts project for the first time? Are you looking for inspiration? Anybody can have fun in arts and crafts, and the following article has many great tips that will show you how.

There is no supply which can’t be used in crafts. Paper goods that are generally discarded are great. Toilet paper rolls come to mind. Save some of your old magazines to use for collages or scrapbooking. Instead of throwing things away, get creative by thinking of ways to use them in your arts and crafts projects.

Stores specializing in beads offer the necessary supplies to make lovely, custom pieces of jewelry. They offer a wide variety of chains, accessories and beads in make unique and beautiful jewelry. A lot of fashions today include the addition of costume jewelry. Making your own can not only save you money, but can also help you match the clothing you own.

If you want to find inexpensive materials to make crafts with, Etsy is one of the best Internet sites out there. You will find countless items there at great prices. You can also sell your projects on this website. This is the perfect site if you need any vintage items for a craft project.

Look in your kitchen for craft materials. You might just be surprised what you’ll find there that can be used for crafting. From jars to cans to aluminum foil, there’s lots available. You can use dried beans and pasta, too.

Craft activities can provide great entertainment to a group of adults or children. There are great projects available for any age. Check online for some inspiration.

Before you choose to work on a particular arts and crafts project, make sure you have everything you need for doing that project. You will not be able to complete the project if you do not have the necessary supplies. Jot down a list with your needed supplies, and make sure you have it before you get started.

A Spirograph will help your child play with patterns and create some interesting pieces. You can make fun patterns and different shapes while teaching children a physics lesson.

When doing arts and crafts with children, look for additional learning opportunities in the project. Depending on their age, ask them questions about the supplies, such as how many there are or how many more they need.

If money is an issue in buying your materials, look into purchasing wholesale. Specialty shops or major retailers often charge exorbitant prices. But, when you buy wholesale, you save a lot of money and enjoy larger quantities of merchandise as well. You can either share what you don’t need with your friends or sell it.

Don’t throw anything out! You can reuse this material in different projects. Get a bin for storing packaging and other items you would normally toss out.

Now you can understand why people of all walks of life can enjoy art projects. Everyone is creative in different ways, and putting that creativity to use allows beautiful things to be made. Using these tips, you should have an idea in mind already.…

Arts And Crafts Advice For Novices And Experts Alike

January 19, 2019 Comments Off

Are you an artist? Do you share your craft with others? You can find out what your options are in the article below, no matter what kind of crafter you are. Continue reading and learn some helpful tips.

There are quite a few things you can use for crafting. Plastic bottles or paper plates that would otherwise be thrown away are a great example. Empty rolls for toilet paper or paper towels work, too. Newspapers and magazines will also come in handy. Make good, interesting use of items you might otherwise discard.

Remember that doing arts and crafts, especially with children, will be messy. If you don’t like messes, use newspaper to cover the area. You can use washable markers and glue too.

If you have difficulty locating supplies at decent prices, check out thrift stores. Different thrift stores and other shops can provide you with many great things. Check in frequently as items come in every day.

Beadaholique is great for all shoppers wanting custom jewelry. Various beads, chains and other supplies are readily available. Costume jewelry is an important part of many of our modern fashions. By making your own, you’re not spending as much, and you can blend your jewelry with your wardrobe.

Allow your child’s creativity to determine how art projects turn out. If you do not provide an example, or show several different types, it will allow your children to rely on their imaginations. For example, they could glue an ear where an eye should be. Their thoughts and ideas are important, so allow them to be a part of the final execution of the project.

Have you checked online for new ideas? There are quite a few Internet sites that offer ideas on many types of projects. You will find countless ideas for projects that any age group can complete.

Look in your kitchen for craft materials. There are many supplies for arts and crafts there. You can use glass jars, tin foil, metal cans and many other objects. You could even use things like dried pasta and dried beans as materials.

With oil painting you can paint over mistakes or regrets. The surface won’t be harmed at all. It may even give your painting more depth.

Put peanut butter onto a pine cone to create a bird feeder. Roll the cone in birdseed while your peanut butter still feels sticky. You will find seeds to stick to peanut butter. This is the case even once it has dried. Simply put on a string and see the birds come to it.

Etsy gives crafters a great online platform. Lots of craft items can be purchased there, or you may prefer to use the site as an inspiration for projects of your own. Additionally, you could choose to feature your best works on the site, and make a little money on the side to fund your craft.

Now you are raring to go, correct? The urge may even be overwhelming. Well, what are you waiting for? Arts and crafts are fun to do and the more you do it, the better you will get.…

Arts And Craft Tips For Anyone Interested In The Hobby

December 28, 2018 Comments Off

For quite a long time, people from around the world have enjoyed arts and crafts. All a person needs to get started is some tools and a little creativity. You can get involved with arts and crafts by just looking at the tips below.

Are you wondering where the best places are to find supplies for crafting? It’s not uncommon to find countless merchants online offering great discounts on craft items. Do a search and see what kind of deals you can find on the materials you need. Additionally, try shopping at stores that offer free shipping for added savings.

If you’re doing projects that might make a mess, use newspaper on your surfaces to make sure you have no damage. You can just toss it in the recycling when you are done.

Are you trying to save money while buying crafting supplies? Check out a second hand store. Goodwill and consignment shops have ample supplies for a creative enough mind. Keep checking local stores on a regular basis to find new merchandise.

Stay focused on one element at a time. With arts and crafts projects, it can be tempting to start different projects at the same time. On the other hand, constantly starting new projects means never finishing them. Finish a project before starting a new one. You’ll get more done this way.

When crafting with children, don’t show them examples of exactly what you think the project should look like. Let them be as creative as they wish. For instance, they might glue a nose where you’d expect an eyebrow. Ideas that come from them are more meaningful than the results.

Many kids enjoy arts and crafts. If you are working with several children, look for a project they all can enjoy. Find ideas online or ask friends for ideas.

Take a look around the kitchen if you are looking for craft supplies. There are many supplies for arts and crafts there. You have metal cans, empty jars, aluminum foil, and much more. Even dried beans and pasta can be used.

If you are starting out early on in oil painting and discover your latest canvas creation isn’t all that great, just paint something new on top of it. Oil is a great medium to work with when learning to paint. In fact, it can provide your new creation with amazing depth and an interesting design.

In order to make a good bird feeder with the kids, put peanut butter on the outside of a pine cone. Roll the peanut butter coated pine cone in birdseed for an instant bird feeder. The peanut butter gets the seeds stuck, which stay even once dried. Attach it to a tree or structure with a string, and everyone can enjoy the birds coming.

This article has show you how you can make arts and craft projects easily. Keep these in mind as you create projects that you and your family can enjoy. The ideas and tricks learned here are just the beginning, as there is so much to learn that will have you creating much better projects in the future.…