Saturday, May 23, 2009

Strategies of Mixed Martial Arts

By Bobbie McKee

Mixed martial arts is a kind of competition that involves the participant to train in wrestling, submission fighting and striking. There are generally two categories of techniques used in the competition: grappling and striking techniques. Grappling involves using submission holds, throws, clinch holds, takedowns and sweeps.

Grappling Explained

Grappling is the standard name given to the act of controlling, gripping and handling an opponent in the absence of striking which uses different applications like choke holds, grappling holds and counters to be able to hold various attempts. Grappling is important in both standing clinch and ground fighting. Some of the sports which uses grappling are: judo, jiu-jitsu, wrestling and MMA. Grappling is a method widely used by several martial artists all over the globe. It is not some kind of distinct martial art, although it is seen as striking which is a collection of strategies and techniques aimed at defeating the opponent.

Use of Grappling

Grappling is utilized into a certain degree which usually happens in joint fighting systems. There are systems like submission wrestling, jiu-jitsu, judo and amateur wrestling that are exclusively prohibiting striking but mostly uses the art of grappling. A lot of combat sports like mixed martial arts emphasize the act even at the retention of striking.

Grappling and Self-defense

Using grappling is not only a form of offensive technique but also a form of self-defense. It is used by law-enforcement officers when apprehending an offender. One of the most common techniques which uses grappling as self-defense are escapes from grips and sometimes, pain compliance application.

Striking: the ultimate MMA technique

Striking comes in numerous details. It is defined as a kind of discipline requiring the fighters to stand up. This definition is usually used in MMA whenever assigning methods that are done from a standing position, more than those techniques incorporated with ground fighting. Technically, striking arts happens on the start of the fight including series of punches and kicks as well as blocking techniques. The entire aspect of striking used in MMA includes multiple attacks with a goal of giving hurt to the opponent and more importantly, knocking them down. In MMA, the most common striking art practiced is with kick boxing, Muay Thai and boxing.

Striking Effectiveness

A majority of those who use striking moves must understand its concept of correct timing and positioning. This is essential for it determines the set of specialty techniques needed to deploy and identify the ones which needs to be nullified. The three main distancing requirements would be: out of range, kicking distance, and the punching range.

Out of range is the area wherein the combatant is not within the range of getting any punches or kicks. It is only when he enters the opposition's distance that she will be hit. The opposing person will intentionally shoot some takedowns or might take the chance of getting close with the other person if engaged in Clinch fighting.

Kicking distance is considered as the farthest position wherein an opponent makes consistent contact using the legs, here, the combatant will fire kicks like a front or round house kick.

The punching range refers to the distance wherein one can hit using the elbows or fists in order to hurt the opponent. In respect to boxing, it is a striking art that is exclusively concerned with the distance in punching. However, with mixed martial arts, wherein closed range fighting is a requirement, it is important to familiarize yourself with a majority of the punching ranges so that a player can effectively execute the techniques mentioned.

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Famous Disciplines in Mixed Martial Arts

By Bobbie McKee

There are various styles adapted from its conventional form like stances used in boxing which lacks efficient counters to takedowns and leg attacks. It is common that a fighter trains under several coaches teaching different methods or techniques to improve different aspects of the game in an instant. Speed drills, flexibility, heart conditioning, and strength training are also important in a fighter's training. There are schools willing to train certain MMA fighters, leading to a genre within its own category.

In the present time, MMA is no longer concerned with only the competitive fighters. This sport is now common among the traditional and non-traditional fighters of this generation. It is now widely taught and has become an accessible sport accepted by wider aspects of ages.

Hybrid

Hybrid styles can be used by a fighter through the fight course in order to achieve his victory. While some participants have been concluded successful in taking down their opponents through ground and pound, striking and submission, there are those who rely on the not-so-satisfying techniques. Some of those familiar techniques fall under:

1. Clinch fighting

This is a tactic that consists of utilizing a clinch hold so that their opponent will be kept from moving from striking ranges which are distant, while attempting to produce takedowns and hitting the opponent using stomps, punches, knees and elbow strikes. Wrestlers usually use the clinch technique. These wrestlers uses clinch fighting as a technique to neutralize their opponent's advanced striking skills and also prevent takedowns by a ground fighter. Muay Thai fighters often use the clinch in order to improve the accuracy of their elbows and knees through controlling the physical condition of the opponent.

2. Sprawl and brawl

A stand-up fighting technique, sprawl and brawl consists effective striking at the point of avoiding attempts of ground fighting which uses sprawls as defense against takedowns. A fighter who uses sprawl and brawl are those who are involved in Thai boxing, full contact karate, boxing and kick boxing. These fighters were trained in wrestling so as to avoid being taken down and maintain a stand-up fight. Usually submission wrestling are studied by these fighters to avoid forced submission if they find themselves on the ground.

3. Submission grappling

A reference of taking an opponent down, submission grappling is the general term used in martial arts. Using a throw or a takedown, the fighter applies a submission hold that forces an opponent to submit. While there are fighters who use grappling as a way of attaining the dominant position, some are more comfortable with the other fighting techniques and positions. In cases where the grappler failed to produce a takedown, he may result to attempting a pulling guard wherein they intentionally pull their opponents to the ground.

4. Ground and pound

Ground and pound is a kind of ground fighting technique that consists of taking a particular opponent down to the ground using a throw or takedown, while trying to obtain the dominant position, then hitting the opponent with the fists. This style, in mixed martial arts, is used by wrestlers who are very much experienced in performing takedowns and good in applying submission defense.

Nowadays, ground strikes are very important for a fighter to be trained with. Tito Ortiz is a very good example of a ground and pound fighter.

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Mixed Martial Arts and Nutrition

By Bobbie McKee

Being a player in mixed martial arts game matches entails a lot of work. Extensive and continuous trainings are required in order to stay competitive. Martial arts is different from MMA. You see, in martial arts, you're only allowed to use the established techniques for a certain type of martial art but in the case of MMA, players can use various martial art techniques. Some of the counterattack and attack moves are legitimate in MMA but it not considered legal in traditional martial arts. MMA is not only for men because at present, many women are also involved in these slightly dangerous game matches.

The physical prowess of players is greatly in demand. Fighters can move faster if they have powerful muscles. Enhanced senses and the knowledge of various MMA techniques can increase your advantage of winning the games. To gain more physical power, many players in the MMA take nutritional supplements which can be in the form of pellets, syrups, powders, tablets, and capsules.

Today's modern athletes are encouraged to have low fat and high carbs diet. Carbohydrates are the main source of energy. When you are going to compete in a match or tournament, you will need a lot of energy and with adequate carbohydrates in your diet, you will have enough energy to finish off the fight. Aside from the carbs in your daily food intake and food supplements, you also need fiber, minerals, and vitamins. Pasta and bread may be rich in carbohydrates but these foods lack vitamins, minerals, or fiber. If you want to be physically fit, you should opt for natural foods.

The body's building blocks are proteins. All athletes, regardless of their chosen sports, should take sufficient proteins. If the natural foods you eat still lack proteins, you should take protein supplements. There are many companies all over the world that manufacture or produce these protein supplements. You should consult your doctor before taking any nutritional supplement. Medical advice is still the best because if you ingest too much of nutritional supplements, it may have harmful side effects to your body.

Health hazards can be caused by too much fatty acids and fats. In short periods, these things may prove effective to your body but over the long term, undesirable effects may be noticeable. Omega 3 is a fatty acid and it is also need to prevent excess storage of fat and it also perverts the breakdown of the muscle tissues.

Mineral supplements are equally important as that of vitamin supplements. Consult your doctor so that you can choose the best and suitable nutritional supplements for your body. Nutrition is a very important factor in order for a player to win. However, it is not enough. You need to ensure that proper nutrition is also backed by a great knowledge of different fighting techniques. You must also have superb reflexes and sound mind. If you combine all these factors, you will have an edge in mixed martial arts competitions.

Mixed martial arts fighting techniques and styles should be coupled with adequate nutrition. The athlete should be aware of the importance of nutrition and so he or she should consult a nutritionist. By doing so, you can determine which nutritional supplements to take.

Schedule an appointment with your nutritionist now. While you're still training, you should condition your body and your health as well.

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Massage Chairs Are Popping Up Chiropractic Offices

By Steve Esquire

Chiropractors are certified professionals in holistic health of the spine and back. By utilizing natural treatments, they help induce the spine to restore it back to health. This requires an understanding of the spine, the nervous system and the musculoskeletal system. A variety of therapies are used depending on the patient's situation. As massage therapy is being used extensively, massage chairs have automated some aspects of patient care in chiropractor's offices around the country.

The original practitioners of chiropractic treatment are the ancient Egpytians. They applied therapeutic treatments by hand. The Greeks picked up on the tradition and gave it a name in Greek cheir-praxis. Which is now known in English as chiropratic. There is a long history of providing treatments first by hand, and now supplemented by a massage chair. The Egyptians would marvel at the high tech massage chair of today.

Chiropractors specialize in areas like pediatrics, sports injuries, neurology and orthopedics. They have to know how to find the root causes of many conditions and also how to restore their health. In the long tradition of chiropractic medicine, they use only natural methods and do not prescribe pharmaceuticals. A chiropractor is licensed by the state and must have earned a D.C. (Doctor of Chiropractic) degree.

Chiropractic medicine is finally going mainstream after almost 5,000 years since being started in ancient Egypt. Big Government has started to cover chiropractic treatments with the inclusion in Medicaid/Medicare. Also, many state workers compensation programs also include chiropractor therapies. Big Government has now upped the ante for Big Medicine to do likewise. Big Medicine has been adding chiropractor coverage to some of its HMO and private medical plans.

Chiropractors are trained to understand a patient's symptoms. They then test theories and validate them to find the root causes. They may take x-rays, perform certain tests or touch and feel what is going on. The spine is a complex arrangement of bones, muscles, tendons, nerves, ligaments, etc. that must be looked at in unison.

Chiropractors are known for making manual adjustments to the spinal column. They use the force from their hands to exert pressure on the bones of the spine to align them. Most people are familiar with the cracking or popping sounds of getting an adjustment to their spine.

Many chiropractic offices are utilizing massage chairs to help automate and deliver more consistent treatments for patients. The benefits of massage therapy to helping the body maintain its health is more widely known. Massage chairs are used to provide targeted massage therapy which can loosen tight muscles and help restore flexibility.

Our spine is very unique in that it enables us to stand upright. When the spine is healthy, then this process is uninhibited. However, slight problems can shift the body weight around. These small shifts can cause an enormous amount of weight and stress to be concentrated in certain areas. This can happen by poor posture or lifting with your back, instead of your knees.

The chiropractor seeks to alleviate the concentrated pressure off of these areas. A doctor helps the patient to identify how they can better distribute the stress put on their spine. Patients may need to make changes to their posture or lifting to help the spine to recover and prevent future injury.

Massage chairs provide an effective means to help the soft tissues to become more flexible and elastic. They help to elongate the muscles with soothing massage techniques. As the muscles relax, then elasticity is restored allowing a greater range of motion. Regular massage chair therapy helps to reduce built up tension and stiffness in these critical areas. Massage chairs are available for home use as well as professional health care use. Massage chairs may be the perfect complement to your back care.

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Mixed Martial Arts - The Importance of Endurance and Stamina

By Bobbie McKee

Do you have a personal workout routine? Whether you're into sports or not, you should have a workout routine. This ensures excellent health and physical prowess. If you want to be involved in mixed martial arts, you should prepare your body for extensive trainings and workouts. Most players in MMA competitions know judo techniques, Brazilian Jujitsu, karate, aikido, and many other forms of martial arts.

Just as the word suggests, mixed martial arts competitions allow players to use various martial arts techniques and styles. Minimal rules are followed and so there are times when the games can get a bit bloody. However, the modern MMA competitions are no longer very violent as compared to the competitions organized many years ago.

Endurance and stamina are two vital factors if you want to succeed as an MMA player. As you learn many fighting techniques, you can enhance these two qualities. Beginners often realize that their stamina is not at its best as well as their physical condition. It was only in the 1990's when mixed martial art was introduced and gradually, it became popular as it is now. Today, it is not only the men who are into MMA. You can already find women and little kids learning various fighting techniques.

People have different reasons in learning the MMA techniques and fighting styles. While it is true that most individuals who are undergoing MMA training wants to compete in tournaments, there are also those who simply want to improve their physical fitness/condition or perhaps learn how to defend themselves; so whatever your reasons, learn MMA now.

Most players of MMA were able to enhance their endurance and stamina through Jujitsu. Try to read more about Jujitsu and how it is related to conditioning and strength. Other sports also have their own trainings to condition their athletes. Have you already discovered your own workout routine?

Before, mixed martial arts was very different from boxing or wrestling. The Gracie brothers fought for as long as they want until they finally exhaust their opponents. There wasn't any time limit and so players can execute as many fighting techniques as they want. Today, the Ultimate Fighting Championships already divide the games into several rounds, with each round lasting about for 3-5 minutes. The workout routines of MMA players today are already concentrated on enhancing endurance and stamina.

High altitude trainings can improve endurance and stamina. If you live near Big Bear Lake, the one owned by Tito Ortiz, you can sign up for the trainings there. Ortiz trains other want-to-be MMA players through workout routines including high altitude trainings. What you can expect from the training sessions given by Ortiz? Well, you can gain 10-20 pounds, increase strength by about 300%, remove excess body fats, and enhance your speed. Aside from that, you will also learn about proper nutrition and low fat diets, programs to improve muscles rapidly, and strength workouts.

You can also find a local training MMA location in your area if you're far from Big Bear Lake. Find qualified instructors and learn from them. In no time, you can already see huge improvements in your endurance and stamina. Start your training now so that you can already make your own workout routine.

By doing the workout, eating healthy, and learning various fighting techniques, you can surely win many mixed martial arts competitions.

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The Greatest Samurai in Old Japan (defeating justice)

By Al Case

It was 1882 when Sokaku Takeda, twenty-three years of age, strode imperiously into the Fukushima courtroom. At the head of the room the magistrate felt a cold wind. It was a new era, the Samurai were being disarmed, and yet this proud peacock didn't seem to understand this.

At the side of the courtroom, on a polished table, a sword had been placed. That weapon had killed so many men, had injured so many, yet when the magistrate looked at the cold-eyed Samurai who owned the weapon, there was no expression on his face. Looking into the eyes of the young man was like looking into a well at midnight, a bottomless well, with no moon.

The magistrate considered what he had heard concerning this peerless samurai. He had begun traveling the country when he was just thirteen, a warrior's pilgrimage, training with top swordsmen, even members of the shogunate's Kobusho. He had killed scores of men, taking on all challengers, and now he had come to Fukushima.

The magistrate studied the young man, who studied him back. The judge had old eyes, and he was trying to agree with Imperial edict and put an end to the ways of the Samurai. The young man had haughty eyes, and those eyes pierced the old man like a winter wind, taking his measure, seeing through him, daring him.

Under the gaze of such piercing eyes, the magistrate felt old and alone. He had no doubts that if the young man wasn't pleased by his verdict, whether he had a sword or not, that young man might pass his own verdict on the court. And that verdict might be a bloody one, indeed!

"You have killed many workers." The judge was terrified. He forced himself to speak.

"They came at me with picks and shovels. I merely defended myself." Young Sokaku Takeda showed no remorse.

"So many lives lost." The magistrate shook his head. Inside, he was quivering.

"Those men should not have attacked me." There was no expression on his face. He was in no danger in this courtroom.

The old man considered the defendant for a fear filled moment. The young man was so brave and fierce, he so proud. "It was self defense, so we must let you go, but your weapon stays here."

Still no emotion. "The age of the Samurai is over," admonished the magistrate. Still, the young man merely stared at the judge, and the magistrate, in spite of his position, felt like he was the blusterer.

Disarmed, he was no less dangerous. Spoken down to, he was yet above his foe. And Sokaku Takeda, not cowed at all, strode proudly from the courtroom.

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Guide to Affordable Fitness DVDs

By Pam (NY, NY)

I am pretty happy that I found this site that I can go over the different comments to find the right Cardio dvd. I am just you a regular girl with that gets doesn't want to spend a fortune on a Fitness dvd.

I don't care to get bored and that is what exactly happens when I get into my 1st or 2nd week.

Many times I go online and do searches for the right workout dvd. I don't like rolling the dice with out reading what others are saying about what I plan to purchase. It helps when I can explore a website that cares about what I want, not just trying to sell a workout dvd.

I would even go as far as posting a blog on the website. I am not always happy with taking a guess and getting halfway through a workout program that I am not going to like it. The price is not everything. It just has to keep my interest.

One time I even bought a workout dvd and it wasn't anything what they claimed. I was really disappointed and went to return it to the store and found that once I open it, it was mine. I certainly won't do that again without researching the right workout dvd.

I like to have a certain amount of time for my routine followed by my own routine of a cool down. I might even jog around the room for 5 minutes. I am liking this new site www.likefitness.com .

I think it is awesome that some people out have created a website to help with the online purchasing decision of a Fitness experience safer. I am not really trying to make a sales pitch for the site. I just hope people might benefit from my experience from purchasing the wrong workout dvd.

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Honeywell Home Security System - A Serious Solution In Protecting Your Home

By John McCreary

There are many companies providing home security system and leading these is a company which is more than a century old. Honeywell home security system is one of the safest bet when it comes to home protection. This company has a number of products to offer. Today home break-ins and burglary is a common feature in every country and using a home security system has become an important feature in all homes.

Honeywell Smoke Detectors: These smoke detectors are so designed that the first sign of smoke or fire the alarms are set off thus alerting the family about fire or smoke and protecting them.

Honeywell Home Structured wiring systems: This home security system helps protect the house from all kinds of wires like satellite, home sound systems, cable T.V, etc.

Honeywell Home security kits: This is one security kit that enables the user to build the entire security kit according to the needs of the user. It allows the user to mix and match the components so that the user can make a security system according to his or her requirements.

Honeywell Home Security System: They provide the user with a wireless security system using cellular technology which includes two way voice features.

There are many companies providing home security systems but then installing a home security system that is know to give its customer full value to the money spent on the security system along with complete satisfaction is of utmost importance as a good security system helps protect the house from break-ins and burglars.

Today with the use of latest technology there are many hi-tech home security gadgets and some of them are not only easy to install but give complete protection to the family.

The major difference between the traditional home security system and the latest Honeywell hi-tech home security system: Though the traditional home security system worked for years to come today Honeywell hi-tech home security systems are easier to install, they are designed with all the latest equipments and products like keypads, add on modules, sensors, control panels, alarm kits etc.

This company also has a wide range of other products like the IP cameras with a feature that is can be viewed via internet and having controllers along with GUIs that help the user to manage the video camera that has been installed.

Yet another product is the matrix system which is capable of managing and switching multiple cameras which are not only easy to use but contain a lot of other features.

Then there are digital video home security systems that have powerful servers so designed to process all the videos clippings and with the latest one being the 3GHz Pentium processor making it possible to process all the videos at a very high speed thus helping transmit all the videos to various other networks. Whatever may be the requirements regarding home security system there are many companies that provide the user with all the benefits of home security all that one needs to do is do a good research work on the company and install a home security system that is user friendly.

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Friday, May 22, 2009

Be Confident With Identity Theft Insurance

By Jean Nicholson

In the present economic situation, there is a need to obtain identity theft insurance plan. It might be a little expensive, but you are guaranteed of safety against such crime. This plan provides fraud alert so as not to allow further damage to your name. Most people who are victims of identity theft never realize that they have permitted it themselves to happen to them. Criminals take advantage of the opportune time to do it.

Anyone should bear in mind that in anything we do, we should be extremely careful especially when we are out of our safe haven. It has been a tradition for ladies to carry bags whenever they go out. Usually what are inside the bag are some girly stuffs and some other things like a wallet where ATM or credit cards and other identification documents are kept.

You should be careful with your bags and foresee some untoward incidents such as bag snatching or robbery. Unless you have identity theft insurance, you will feel secure should something like this happens.

In so doing, you become extremely careful and become aware of what is happening with people around you. Speaking of credit card, this thing seems like a common possession these days. Aside from being less bulky and light to carry in our bags or pockets, it is convenient in the sense that we are able to buy or get anything with the use of the plastic card. At times when we do not have money which is badly needed for an emergency, cash withdrawal is the instant recourse, where you can get instantly your money. These are some of the advantages derived from this plastic card.

Every ATM or credit card has its relevant PIN or Personal Identification Number to gain access to an account. One thing you should know about your favorite plastic card is to remember that there are certain digits in your credit card that can over-ride or undo your Personal Identification Number (PIN). It is best to keep just one card so there are no other things to worry about.

Furthermore, if you have more than one of those things, you will be surely be burdened with the membership fees for all the cards that you have, even if you did not use them. If you did not pay, interests and charges are added compounding your liabilities. However, if you have two or more of them, make it a point to carry with you just one of it, and keep the rest in a secured place.

Furthermore, when withdrawing cash from a teller machine, you should have ensured that it is only you and you alone who knows about the PIN. Always take precautionary measures. Never rely on the idea that should something happen to you, you are covered by the identity theft insurance.

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Martial Mysticism Solved!

By Al Case

Mystery and mythology often obscure the martial arts. Matrixing is the use of physics to penetrate the mysteries of the martial arts. This article details the type of thought I was using when developing Matrixing.[l:2:J]

One of the more interesting symbols in the Chinese martial arts is the pentagram. The pentagram represents the five elements of the universe. The five elements are generally thought of as: wood, water, fire, metal, earth.

These five elements can be arranged in a sequence that is considered generative. Thus, each element makes the next. For instance: wood makes fire makes earth, makes metal makes water makes wood.

They can also be arranged in a degenerative sequence. Thus, each element destroys the next. For instance: wood is destroyed by fire is destroyed by water is destroyed by earth is destroyed by metal is destroyed by wood.

Generative or degenerative, there is an order to the series, and, according to ones viewpoint, there are different ways to consider the order. If metal is considered as a tool like a shovel, or a weapon like an ax, this can create a whole different order. One can see how different viewpoints result in arguments over the arrangement of the sequence.

In the martial arts, however, I believe the sequence to be arranged according to motion. Wood is immobile, fire is aggressive or towards, earth is downward, water is flowing or clinging, metal is a weapon. To understand this we need to consider each element as part of martial motion.

Wood is motionless. Wood doesnt move. Wood waits for the attack.

Fire is an aggressive attack. It moves towards wood. It destroys wood.

Earth is a motion towards the earth. When aggression comes in, earth will move it downward. Earth grapples with fire in this manner.

Water flows in the direction of the attack. Somebody attacks, you flow with to manipulate. Water can thus manipulate earth.

Metal can be considered as a weapon. A weapon extends the body, even to reach somebody who is water. Metal thus destroys liquid.

Wood is immobile. When somebody rushes with weapon, to defeat the closing of distance, the defender must go motionless and let the attack over extend, or pass by and miss. Wood defeats metal.

This is how motion, and combat, would relate to the Chinese pentagram. Relating motion to element makes for an understanding of the element. Unfortunately, the comparison is somewhat loose.

Metal, as a product of civilization, and therefore not natural, should probably be omitted. Perhaps four elements should be represented, and this by a square, which would make the concepts more manageable. There is also the possibility of replacing the Chinese elements with the Chinese elements, which would introduce spirit to the fray.

In the end, mythology must fall to science. Mythology is based on mystery, which is what we dont understand. To analyze motion purely is a science which can help the student progress rapidly, and to understand without the confusions of myth and mystery.

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Understanding Coaching

By Bart Icles

The past few years have witnessed the rise in the popularity of coaching as a tool in employee development. However, there are still organizations that continue to see failure in implementing coaching initiatives. Oftentimes, failure stems from a certain lack of understanding coaching and its role in organizational success and development.

Let us review the purpose of coaching. More often than not, companies embark on coaching programs help develop leadership and interpersonal skills. Coaching also helps develop self-awareness by allowing individuals to become more aware of their shortcomings, as well as growth opportunities. It also helps individuals to review their past work behavior and how this has affected his or her performance and other people. Coaching is also one way of helping people balance their professional and personal roles more effectively. Organizations also use coaching as a tool in improving performance and work relationships.

It is also helpful to understand the differences in the roles of managers, mentors, and coaches. Managers assume more formal roles in the organization. Their job is to make sure that the main tasks of individuals, teams, and the organization itself are met. Simply put, managers place the accomplishment of organizational tasks ahead of the others.

Mentors on the other hand have closer interpersonal relationships with other individuals in the organization. They help protgs understand the organization and their roles in the organization. Coaches are more concerned with professional and personal growth. The most effective coaches are usually those who are not associated in any way to the company aside from giving coaching.

Adopting a coaching method really depends on the kind of organization that needs it. When organizations want to identify which areas to improve on, what tools need to be applied, and what processes are needed to improve organizational performance, it would be helpful to adopt an engineering approach to coaching. However, if organizations want to employ coaching to help employees incorporate the various elements of their lives so they can achieve psychological integration and social harmony, a more clinical approach to coaching might come in handy.

There are also different kinds of coaching that can help organizations develop a coaching culture. External personal coaching requires coaches to be totally independent from the company except for the coaching task alone. Each and every individual from the organization can benefit from external personal coaching as this allows individuals to explore sensitive professional and personal themes. Team leadership coaching requires leaders to help their members think psychologically in an organizational environment. Peer coaching allows individuals in organizations to confide in each other, work interdependently and collaboratively, and discuss and resolve professional and personal conflicts as they arise.

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Programme Communication

By Rob Llewellyn

Many aspects of life rely on communication. School, parenting, relationships, sport, politics, social and business are just a few. The trouble is, when communication is performed poorly or not at all in any of these areas, people and results suffer.

Programme Management is the same and although we use best practice techniques to manage risk, etc, communication is more about understanding people than understanding a best practice. The guidelines set out by various organisations such as the UK OGC, are useful references, but those guidelines can only become effective when they are applied by a Programme Manager who understands the human element of communication. A Programme Manager who understands people.

A Programme is often in greater need for effective communication because it is often a one-off initiative. This is highlighted in The Gower Book of Programme Management and it goes on to say that a programme will not always enjoy the luxury of a regular collection of disciplines and management structures.

Often people focus on certain areas of managing a programme. The outcome is that assets like the Communications Plan drift into the background as other matters take priority. Furthermore, many people do not appreciate the real benefits of a Communications Plan.

A Programme Communications Plan must be viewed as a strategic tool and a dynamic document. Not a static document with a few blanks to be filled in. When the plan is created with a casual approach, the Programme Manager concerned will often communicate on the fly - instead of according to plan. The result can be a mediocre and hurried effort which only serves to achieve less than satisfactory results. You can compare this to a Project Manager creating a project plan and not using it! Both are recipes for failure.

The Communications Plan can be powerful tool in the right hands. It can be used to build relationships with both internal and external stakeholders, which means it should become a high priority. Stakeholders should be well informed so that when the programme runs into the inevitable challenges, the well informed stakeholders with whom we have already built relationships, are far more likely to support us in our hour of need. We are more likely to gain support from well informed stakeholders who we have built relationships with than from those who are strangers. And the better our relationships, the less likely we are to encounter problems.

At the most basic level, the failure to follow a good Communications Plan will often result in complaints such as; "I don't understand", "you didn't tell me" and "where did this come from". Treat the Communications Plan as a dynamic tool that can be used to foster relationships and promote your programme. To do this it needs to be a living breathing high priority document which is both implemented and kept up to date.

In his best seller, '7 Habits of Highly Effective People' Stephen Covey?s 5th Habit is about the principles of empathic communication and he describes communication as the most important skill in life. He writes, "if I were to summarise in one sentence the single most important principle I have learned in the field of interpersonal relations, it would be this: seek first to understand, then to be understood". This principle is the key to effective interpersonal communication".

In Robert Bolton's book, 'People Skills', he writes; "communication skills alone are insufficient - the person who has mastered the skills of communication but lacks genuineness, love and empathy will find his expertise irrelevant or even harmful".

Whether we are managing internal or external programme communications, a Communications Plan in the hands of a Programme Manager who neglects the art of emphatic communication is like a baton (stick) in the hands of a tone-deaf conductor. The Communications Plan alone gets you a tick in the box, but its overal purpose can be ineffective.

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Mixed Martial Arts - Nutrition and Fitness

By Bobbie McKee

The productivity of individuals can be enhanced greatly through proper nutrition and fitness. If you indulge in active physical activities like mixed martial arts, you will become physically fit and healthy individual. With physical activity, nutrition, and fitness, you can live a longer life.

Since mixed martial arts involve rigorous training sessions, your body can suffer greatly if you have poor nutrition. In order to perform well during the trainings and in competitions, you should have adequate knowledge about your nutritional needs. One way to find out is by consulting a doctor or a nutritionist.

If you don't want to end up with injuries, you should be aware of your body's limitations. Before starting your strength training, you should first do warm up exercises. Try to do exercises that involve all the major muscles of your body. Once the muscles are activated, you will have enough strength to do intense workouts. If you do the exercises carelessly and rapidly, you will decrease the effectiveness of the muscles and you will be more prone to injuries. There are machines that you can use for the strength training workouts and you can utilize them if you want.

When the body is still at rest and you exercise, you will only place extra stress and demands to it. In this scenario, the body needs more fuel and nutrients. The nutrients will be consumed quickly and easily. If you're an MMA athlete, you can't play effectively if your body lacks proper nutrition and fitness. As you can see, nutrition and fitness is indeed important. How can you determine a healthy diet from a poor one? Healthy diets usually consist of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and essential fats. The training loads you get everyday will requires your body to have more calories. You need to support your body with enough calories if you want to carry out all the techniques the right way.

The time of eating is also another consideration. Before you exercise, make sure that you're stomach is not full. It's a good idea if you eat after the exercises so that you can replenish it with new glycogen. If you don't eat properly, you will not be able to perform properly on your training session. If you are undergoing prolonged training, you should have an adequate stock of glycogen. Each individual is unique and so does nutritional requirements. Your nutritional requirements may be different from other individuals so make sure that you consult a medical expert.

If you want sustained energy, try eating a salad together with some chicken breast. Each meal should be complete with complex carbohydrates and protein. By eating balanced meals, you can stabilize glucose; so you will feel satisfied and energized.

Once you decide to be involved in mixed martial arts, don't take your health for granted. Visit your friendly nutritionist or doctor right away. You will learn how to eat better and how to pick the right choices of food. By eating well balanced meals, your body will become strong and healthy. Since it is impossible to provide your body with all the needed nutrients, you should take nutritional supplements but only under the supervision of medical experts.

If you take too much supplements, you might experience side effects. Achieve fitness and health by being involved in MMA and of course, proper nutrition.

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Mixed Martial Arts Training

By Bobbie McKee

Mixed martial arts is a kind of combat competitive sport that utilizes different martial arts tactics which is aimed at putting the fighter to his ultimate level of combat fitness and skills. Mixed martial arts is now widely known and is highly developed with different disciplines being implemented for the benefit of the fighter. Methods of training can go to the extreme. There are several things that one should keep in mind if he wants to become the ultimate fighting machine.

First, you have to asses the base forms. MMA has heavy basis regarding a few martial arts tactics. Kick boxing, wrestling, jiu-jitsu and muay thai altogether contributes to the heavy mixing of training. If you think you can handle the tough and steady training which involves a lot of physical strength and endurance, then you have to be successful in achieving a positive attitude first. Survey the range of the sport so that one can further understand the evolution of training methods and its tactics.

Start intensively. Work on a training schedule that your body can handle. Majority of those who win in MMA are those who contributed a huge part of their day training and maintaining a healthy upkeep. Training usually comprises of intensive strength. In order to achieve a minimal fitness level, you have to start a high level intensity training. A number of mixed martial artists utilize several combinations when training in order to test their limits and if how far the technique will work out for them. Resistance training or functional weight is also needed to attain an explosive strength.

If you can't do it on your own, find someone who can teach you how. Nowadays, there are multiple mixed martial arts school that are willing provide support and training to those needing it. MMA schools are now devoted in showing the majority enrolling in their classes that everyone can achieve the strength needed to perform the art which can also be useful in self-defense. For instance, several boxing institutions offer training for those wanting basic tactics in MMA. It is advisable to train at clubs, organizations or schools not solely for someone to be familiar with the instruction but also to program themselves as fighters inside the ring.

Observe. If you are a fan of MMA, you could watch tons of UFC videos and fights. This is a good step in achieving the discipline. Watching experienced fighters or masters manipulate their opponents will give you different hints on the do's and don'ts of the game. If possible, search for the earliest data made for the Ultimate Fighting Championship then head on to the recent years which already stabilizes the current trend in MMA. There are tons of videos made by the masters like Tito Ortiz or Chuck Liddell that can teach you different incorporations of the techniques. Watch as much as you can, maintaining your stand on your training and keeping by heart the details of the numerous techniques that can or cannot be useful.

While training is as important as winning a match in mixed martial arts, it is also important that you, as the player, should observe safety and caution. Before starting your training, you have to do some warm-ups first. Your days work of training will all go to waste if you have already suffered a major disaster even before starting the big fight.

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What You Should Know about Mixed Martial Arts

By Bobbie McKee

Many years ago, people regarded mixed martial arts as a demanding and unforgiving physical sport. Despite its negative reputation in the past, this combat sport has slowly made its way to public acceptance. It is already part of many world sports events today. If you don't want your opponent to defeat you in the matches, you should have good reflexes and immense body strength.

Due to the increasing popularity of mixed martial arts, the demand for nutritional supplements and performance enhancing medicines also became huge. Many athletes who want to be well-known in the combat sport take supplements and certain drugs for better performance. However, you should not be careless in using the drugs and supplements because it might cause harmful side effects.

Many healthy individuals take minerals, proteins, vitamins, and carbs supplements. With good health comes good performance; since it is normal for people to get tired and exhausted, having a health body will ensure immediate recuperation. To some people, good health is synonymous to strength but it doesn't end there. If you're healthy, you can easily thwart your opponent's extremely tight grip and your sharp eyes can easily tell the next move.

Since the combat sport involves many strikes and maneuvers, it can easily squeeze alot out f your health. If you tolerate this, you will shorten your longevity. You can only be active in this type of sport at a very short time but by taking the necessary nutrients, you can improve your life's longevity.

Some athletes say that nutrition is not important when it comes to winning in MMA competitions. Nutrition alone cannot make you a winner in the competition but if you know various fighting skills, styles, and techniques, you can surely win. Still, many athletes who don't believe in the value of nutrition are able to thwart heavier rivals through superior fighting techniques. But you must also remember that your body will also suffer the most. During a game, your body's energy is used up. Without proper nutrition, you can't withstand the wear and tear brought about by the tough trainings and competitions.

Having a healthy body foundation should be given much attention. Supplements and nutrients are vital but it should be taken at the right amounts. Consult your doctor about it so that with his or her help, you can take adequate vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, proteins, and other nutritional supplements. With these things, you can surely enhance your performance, immunity, and physical condition.

If you undergo MMA trainings at an early age, you can learn many different techniques. You should learn techniques of various types of martial arts like Brazilian Jujitsu, Karate, Judo, Tae Kwon Do, etc. Having knowledge in boxing, wrestling, and kickboxing is also an advantage. When you're young, your body is more flexible as compared if you're already an adult. Encourage teens and kids to learn various types of martial arts. It's not just about being a fighter but it's also about keeping your body healthy. You can even use it as self defense.

There are many informational resources that you can find in books, magazine, eBooks, and other materials about mixed martial arts. Try to exert more effort and time in your mixed martial arts classes to enjoy its many benefits. If you dedicate yourself to the MMA trainings, you will notice huge improvements in your state of mind, physical body, and overall health.

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Mixed Martial Arts Fighting Systems

By Bobbie McKee

Fighting systems in martial arts differ from one another. You can't compare one system with the other because there is no specific objective or standard format for doing so. The systems have their own fighting techniques, methods, and goals. The capacity and ability of the individual to learn various fighting systems will determine his success in the upcoming game matches.

A person's body is one of the aspects of most fighting systems. Aside from that, the systems also give value to spiritual and philosophical ideals. The Chinese, Korean, and Japanese fighting systems follow the principles of Confusion. There are certain systems which are sports oriented and they follow unique rules which may contradict that of the rules of other systems. Some very good examples are Tae Kwon Do, Judo, and Washu. Reality based or systems which emphasize self defense include Kombato, Jeet Kune Do, and Defendo. Martial arts have different forms and each has its own set of goals and so it can be very difficult to compare them.

However, it's possible to asses the value of martial arts in teaching fighting disciplines. Some systems focus on unarmed combat while other systems focus on using particular weapons; others focus in self defense, escaping from harm, etc.

Try to find out about the goals of a particular fighting system and use that to assess if the fighting techniques being taught are effective. Observe two forms of martial arts while their players fight each other. One player may be good in hand fighting while the other player has his or her own expertise. When they fight, take note of the effective movements when they were executed. Sparring sessions between different fighting systems is an excellent way to determine the better techniques to se during matches. The UFC allows fighters from different systems to compete with each other. Limited rules are followed to ensure the safety of the players. After the UFC, many other organizations with similar goals entered the world scene.

Cross trainings are now possible through MMA. Fighters of MMA believe in one thing - which is to learn various fighting systems or disciplines. Today, many individuals prefer to fight with fighters from other systems but they no longer want to enter the competitions of the UFC and other organizations. Students fight with other students to prove who is more superior. Teachers don't encourage this kind of fighting but in reality, it does happen. If you're a responsible individual, you will not take part in the illegal fights because you might get injured. If you want to fight, join legal competitions.

You can also use mixed martial arts are your personal workout routine. You see, MMA is not just for fighting with other players but it's also about keeping the body fit and healthy. Once you learn various MMA techniques, incorporate them in your daily workout. Your body needs regular exercise or workout and by doing the various styles or techniques, you're already providing your body with the needed workout. Also, don't forget to eat a balanced diet because makes your body stronger. The body needs energy and it comes from the foods you eat; so eat better to live better.

You can't learn all the fighting systems used in mixed martial arts in a very short time. Just pick the ones you think are effective and enroll in their classes.

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Thursday, May 21, 2009

Making a Leader

By Bart Icles

It has often been said that there is no single formula for making an effective leader. Indeed, there are several ways wherein an organization can bring out and develop leadership skills that seem to sleep inside its people. Just as leadership training programs are significant investments in any organization, it is also vital to keep mind the kind of leaders that the organization needs. They may not necessarily be the leaders that the organization wants, but they are the leaders that can greatly help the organization survive in this dark age of recession.

Following are just a few of the different kinds of leaders that may be present in an organization or those that an organization might need. Take note, each leadership style has its own advantages and disadvantages. Before settling for a certain leadership style, make an assessment of your organizational needs, and determine if that particular leadership style would best fit your organization.

There are leaders who show more concern for people, and there are those who show more concern for production. The Blake and Mouton leadership grid gives an outline on the types of leaders who have varying concerns over people and production. Those leaders who show high concern for people and low concern for tasks or production are referred to as country club leaders. While those leaders who show low concern for people and high concern for tasks or production are what Blake and Mouton refer to as authoritarian leaders. Those leaders who show low concern for both people and tasks are impoverished leaders. While those leaders who show high concern for both people and tasks are team leaders, and are deemed that most balanced type of leaders - although this might not always be the case.

There are also reactive and proactive leaders. Proactive leaders tend to be more concerned with the achievement of performance objectives, while reactive leaders are those who are more focused on identifying and solving problems. Proactive leaders make decisions with the help of the whole team, foresee and influence change, and use principles in making decisions. Reactive leaders on the other hand make decisions all by themselves, react to change, and use rules in making decisions.

There is nothing wrong in adopting a certain leadership style. The important thing is, leaders are given the opportunity to learn how to be flexible with different conditions or circumstances that they are able to switch from one style to another, depending on what the situation calls for. Leadership training programs must be able to emphasize this need for flexibility or else, the program will just be mass producing canned leaders who are so stiff that they fail to adjust to the varying needs of the organization.

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Spy Cam: Because Being Careful is Not Enough

By Joe Anderson

We have always turned to our homes for safety and protection from the perils of the outside world. Problem is, in our current times, even our homes can be the target of bandits and all sorts of danger. So what can we do to protect our household from them? Is there a way to make sure of our children's safety while we are not at home? There are many ways to accomplish these, and one of the best out there is getting a spy camera or a spy cam.

What is a spy camera? It is a still or video camera that is used for surveillance, for business or home use, which helps monitor activities for security purposes. It comes in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, most can be disguised as everyday objects, like a clock, a figurine, and a smoke detector.

Whether it's inside or outside your house, you can check your home with the use of a spy cam, which transmits images or live feeds on a television or computer monitor. Not at home? No problem, just check out your home from the internet! So when you suspect someone you see in the screen, you can take action before they make their move!

At times when we go to work, we usually leave our kids to babysitters. But sometimes you just don't feel at ease when you leave your kids with other people. You want to monitor how they're doing even you're not home? With a spy camera, you can easily check on them and get back to your work. You can also know if the babysitter took good care of your children or just ignored them.

Making plans is important before getting your first spy cam. Either you use the wired or wireless type of camera, but the wireless is better since you prevent the hassles of tangled wires and trying to figure out where to place them. A wireless system gets set-up easily right out of the box, and into the spot you want to place extra security.

When installing inside your home, try to find a camera with a good disguise, like a book or an air freshener, or something that would fit well with your furniture and decorations. A well-disguised camera can make your surveillance much more covert and effective.

For outside surveillance, your best bet might be an all-weather camera, which can withstand the ups and downs of the weather. Looking for cameras that have low lux rating can give you an edge at those low light conditions. With these features, nothing can hinder you from protecting your home and family.

You should get your camera from a reputable store in your locality or online. Do some research on the company's products, warranties, policies and customer service. They'll be able to help you choose the appropriate type for your home.

In today's world, we must always keep our guard up and eyes open for danger. It's not enough to just be careful, we must take proper precaution to prevent unwanted events from happening. A spy cam can prove to be a valuable tool in keeping a close watch on our family and our home. Get a spy camera now and get extra security and peace of mind wherever you go.

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Kids can do Mixed Martial Arts

By Bobbie McKee

Yes they can. It's actually not that hard to bring them into learning mixed martial arts. Some kids are so eager they are the ones suggesting it to be taught to them. Though with much speculation and worry, parents don't let their child get acquainted with the sport until they have reached an understanding of what mixed martial arts really mean.

On the eyes of a child

Watching how fighters do it on television will give your kids a better idea on how the art works although, that would be a bit violent especially on the eyes of a four-year old child. If a parent wishes to let their kids understand how the sport works, it is advisable that the kids are guided as often as possible. Talk to your child about the benefits of the sport and why they are taking it. This will make the child further understand that the sport is not merely for combat but for defending oneself and as a form of creative exercise. As a matter of fact, martial arts, in the general sense can induce discipline and regulate a healthy body.

Teaching the child

Kids are easier to teach than adults. They follow whatever their instructor says and sees to it that every step are executed to its perfect sense. They are good listeners most especially when they want to obtain something new. The level of training can be chosen basing on the preference of the kids or the parents. Even the parents can help their children learn to love MMA.

There are two practical ways wherein your child can learn mixed martial arts: personal tutor like the parents themselves and enrolling them in an MMA school. A piece of advice though, if you plan on teaching your child the discipline, make sure that you know the basics. You should first see to it that personally, as a parent, you understand the rules of the art.

Steps of the instruction

1. Warm-ups. Doing some round of stretching and jumping jacks can release tension and improve the child's blood circulation. Warm-ups are great in waking up the child's sleeping energy and provide their heart a head start. Professional instructors and martial arts experts never fail to begin their training with some cardiovascular exercise before performing anything most especially if it's the techniques are leading to strenuous ones.

2. By instructing your children into a push-up position, you help them strengthen their muscles, define their triceps and biceps. Push-up is considered as an excellent strengthening exercise which helps improve their obedience of the different techniques.

3. Sit-ups are also good to advise your kids before starting out. This is a good exercise for their abs to become firm so that in case they get some strikes on that area, it will be built for it.

By providing the abovementioned instructions, your child can now adapt easier when performing hard techniques. Inform your kids that through tons of hard work, there is a possibility that they will learn the art faster. Pushing your kids to the limit will help. Give them constructive criticisms that can help them improve. Support your kids every step of the way. This will create enough self-confidence that can help them in future encounters.

Mixed martial arts doesn't require perfect participants but eager ones. And the best candidates are the kids.

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Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Bruce, Jackie, Jet: Whos Better?

By Al Case

This has got be one of the most interesting questions in martial arts history. Which one of the big three of the martial arts cinema is better: Bruce, Jackie, Jet? Each of the three, after all, has legitimate claim to the throne of best martial arts star of all time.

Through astounding physical and emotional effort these three men made it to the top of their field. These three men each took a different route to the top of their field. These three men must be considered from several angles before we choose a winner.

The first and foremost question is, of course, what are their statistics at the box office. Another thing to be discussed is how good were each of the three? Finally, the important question of how real their art is must be analyzed.

Jackie Chan comes out on top when it comes to how many box office dollars they made. Heck, Jackie made more movies than Jet or Bruce, so he gets an obvous edge on this question. To be considered in this question is the fact that Jackies movies have been popular in the orient long before the west even knew he existed.

Jet appears to be the top dog when it comes to who was the best martial artist. Froom all the millions of people in China he was selected as a superior person in the physical sense of the word. Neither Jackie nor Bruce trained a many hours of the day as he did.

When it comes to pure effectiveness, however, Bruce Lee is far out in front. Bruce dedicated himself to isolating and developing specific combat techniques. All od his discoveries, his efforts, his very intense personality, went into the creation of his own combat art, Jeet Kune Do.

So, it appears that we have a tie. Jackie Chan, Jet Li, and Bruce Lee have each managed to have one win. Well, considering the incredible quality of the three, perhaps that is to be expected.

Before we close the book on this question, however, perhaps we should consider one last item. When it comes to being the best, there is always somebody better, and this just because time passes. Over time new students rise to the top, a whole new generation has somebody to look forward to, and...there was a fellow I heard about a few months ago named Tony Jaa.

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Solving the Martial Arts!

By Al Case

There is a question in the martial arts that, before myself, has never been asked. Nobody has ever come up with the notion that the martial arts are a puzzle. That means that no one, in the history of the martial arts, has ever solved the puzzle.

When I began to consider the martial arts as a puzzle, and then solved them, I discovered something truly unique. I came across the actual True Art that has always intrigued people, but which has never been realized. I also came into the knowledge of why nobody has ever really discovered the True Art.

Amazingly, hard core physics is at the heart of the True Art. Physics is the study of all motion in the universe. Physics is what what students must know if they are to ever reach the True Art.

At first, like every other student, I availed myself of magazines and books, and I studied every art I came in contact with. I saw movies, ordered libraries of video tapes, and I had deep discussions with every martial artist I came in contact with. The digital age made my activities even larger, and i began sample and study arts across the whole planet.

I began making records of all the techniques that I knew. I covered the backs of business cards with them and laid them out across my living room. The thousands of cards covered with the techniques of hundreds of arts and styles.

Then came the tough task of putting them in some kind of order. I tired categorizing them by attack, by the fist or foot or whatever that was used. I tried to sort them conceptually, by whether they were from soft arts, or hard. One of the things I even tried was to lump them by what geographical region they came from.

I began to see patterns, and I started throwing out duplicate techniques. I tossed out all the techniques that were poser, that depended on the attacker waiting for the defender to do his stuff. The stacks of cards grew smaller, became easier to consider, and eventually there were only forty techniques left.

Forty techniques is all there are in the martial arts. All of the other techniques in all of the other arts are nothing more than variations or deviations from those forty techniques. The most important thing about all this, however, wasnt just that I had come up with the source of all martial arts techniques, the most important thing was what I was seeing the patterns and logics underneatht he forty techniques.

The Martial Arts have been solved, the puzzle has been put together so that everybody can see it. That puzzle, once viewed is an incredible doorway into the True Art. The Golden Age of the martial arts has now begun.

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Mixed Martial Arts and Behavior

By Bobbie McKee

Unarmed combat sports like mixed martial arts are gaining popularity these days. Even if the earlier games were bloody and not widely accepted, it has dramatically changed over the years. The modern game matches usually include fight forms like Wrestling, Boxing, Kickboxing, Judo, Jujitsu, Tae Kwo Do, etc. Those who take MMA classes have different reasons - for fun, fighting in competitions, self defense, and for fitness.

According to researches, mixed martial arts originated in Greece. It was called Pankration and the games them were similar to today's modern games. Most players back then used techniques similar to boxing and wrestling. After the first fight in the UFC in 1993, the world has taken much interest in the unarmed combat sport. The very first champion in MMA is Royce Gracie. Aside from Pankration, mixed martial art is also like Vale Tudo in Brazil which became popular in the 1920s. MMA is very popular in Japan, United States, and Brazil.

The predominant techniques utilized by most players in the MMA competitions are grappling and striking. The techniques are already combinations of the various fighting styles known in Russia, France, Holland, Thailand, Japan, Brazil, and America. Rules are still not standardized as compared to other sports and it varies from one country to another. Minimal rules are followed for safety and for the promotion of the sport. Groin attacks, abusive language, joint manipulations, fish hooking, eye gouging, and biting are often considered illegal and unethical.

The athletes of the MMA are categorized into strikers, wrestlers, and ground fighters. The latter are very good especially when they are able to force their opponents to the ground. The wrestlers prefer take downs and strikers want to win games by knock out. You should belong to a certain category. All categories require extensive and comprehensive training. This is the only way to become a total MMA athlete. Traditional players of MMA are trained in Brazilian Jujitsu, Muay Thai, and other prominent fighting systems. Professional trainers guide their students all throughout the training sessions. You can find a lot of training schools in Virginia, Maryland, Washington DC, and in countries like Brazil and Japan.

Mixed martial arts do not concentrate merely on the physical capabilities of an individual. It also focuses on the spiritual and mental well being of the person. When you join MMA classes, you will surely learn many good qualities that you can apply in your everyday life. You can also improve your mental state through the trainings. The behavior of most MMA players is refined as compared to non players. They are disciplined, hard working, dedicated, patient, and good natured. You will also be able to develop these qualities by joining MMA classes.

Find a local mixed martial arts class in your area and sign up. Some organizations provide free MMA trainings and you can take advantage of that. Find classes in your area now. If you have kids who are interested in MMA, try to encourage them more because starting at an early stage is a good idea to become one of the best players. The professional instructors will also help in instilling the good qualities in your child as he or she grows older.

Adults can also use the different MMA techniques as part of their workout routines which is an excellent way to stay in shape.

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Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Mixed Martial Arts: Fighting through History

By Bobbie McKee

Mixed martial arts or MMA is a kind of combat sport involving full contact which allows different varieties of fighting methods and techniques, coming from mixtures of the conventional martial arts to the non-traditional ones, all used in the competition. Rules allow the usage of grappling and striking when either battling it out on the ground or standing. Competitions involving mixed martial arts allow different artists having different martial arts background to fight their way to the championships.

It was in 1993 when the modernized competition in the American society emerged thus, the founding of the UFC or Ultimate Fighting Championship. This competition was based initially on recognizing some of the most efficient martial arts for a real and unarmed combat playground. The competitors of different arts vie against each other having minimal safety rules.

Through the decades, promoters of the MMA have adopted additional rules which are aimed at magnifying and increasing the safety of the competitors and to be able to promote a larger audience to see it as a form of accepted sport. Jeff Blatnick, former Olympic gold medalist and Greco-Roman wrestler, was the one who coined the term mixed martial arts.

Origin

In 1997, the sport was developed worldwide with some of the main development centers in the United States, Japan and Brazil. During its development era, exchanges of knowledge from different countries happened for MMA to finally take place. Some of the techniques currently used came from countries like England, Holland, Russia, Brazil, Thailand, France, America along with bits and pieces from other countries.

Walk Back to History

Historical Greece made the earliest remark in the history of MMA through its Pankration competitions. In Pankration, some of the Greek's style in boxing and wrestling were utilized. Although, compared to UFC, proving the style that will work best is given very little emphasis. The Greeks were more concerned on the representation of each athlete's native style.

The UFC gave out its first bout, which was known as War of the Worlds, having a kenpo, savateur, boxer, shootfighter, two kick boxers, and a jiu-jitsu fighter turning up against each other. Royce Gracie, a jiu-jitsu fighter from Brazil swept out all other contestants. When UFC III came into being, referees were already allowed to stop the fights.

Competitions on different fighting styles like jujutsu versus boxing became one of the most popular entertainment in countries like Japan, Europe and the Pacific. In Japan, contests like these were called as "merikan" which means American fighting. Merikan contestants competed under several rules which include best of three knockdowns, submission, and points decision. Some of these rules were adapted by the UFC and is still accepted by regulators of the game.

In December 2006, mixed martial arts reached its peak due to the rematch made between Tito Ortiz and Chuck Liddell. This match surpassed UFC's gross and the entire promotion history.

The Evolution

The game wasn't the only one that evolved but also its fighters and the rules as well. Due to an increased number in competitors, information sharing, modern kinesiology, and camps supporting organized training, further understanding of different strategies in combat improved increasing.

The sport itself was a masterpiece thanks to the early years and those who have proposed it, continual evolution and worldwide appreciation of mixed martial arts were achieved.

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Spy On Your Family - Does Using Spy Gadgets Give You Peace Of Mind? (Yes They Do!)

By Josea Machman

Spying your family is one the easiest, quickest, and most affordable ways to uncover lies that may be going on in your life. Once you start to reveal the truth, thoughts of the worst case scenario will drop from your head. Whether it's the recession or even fear over swine flu, troubled times bring out the worst in people, don't they?

As a result of using some easy to use spy gadgets, you'll automatically be more relaxed during the day.

Clueless about what spy gadgets you should be using? Read on below.

3 Perfect Products To Help You Spy On Your Family

The SIM Card Spy - Have a feeling that your spouse or teen is getting into trouble with their cell phone? You must have this gadget then - it tells you everything they've been talking about. But here's what makes it better. Even if they delete the messages, you're the winner because the right SIM card spy can actually recover those deleted messages easily.

Hidden DVR Camera - How stupid would it be to set up an expensive camcorder system in your house? Everyone would know you're up to something in a heartbeat. Just imagine they had no clue they were being recorded at any given moment. Well, that's why the hidden DVR camera was created - for moments like this. You can find ones that look like a simple black box that your family won't even hardly notice. But if you want to trick them even more, there's one that looks like a tissue box of all things.

Key Logger - Take a moment to think about what it would be like to record what your family members were looking for on Google or typing on Facebook. Think about how they would have to take full responsibility for what they did. Wouldn't that make you feel a whole lot more at ease? A key logger records every single word being typed and lets you look through them to get the information you need. All you have to do is plug it in back of the computer and let it do it's work.

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Vacant property security systems are an ideal way to make sure that your outdoor space and home is safe and secure.

By Ethan G Hayes

Vacant property security systems systems are probably the key part of any garden. If you want a stylish and secure garden then you should look at some garden furniture. You should be able to find Vacant property security systems systems that suits your taste with ease because it's available in a variety of shapes and sizes.

You can choose from tables, chairs, loungers and benches - whatever you want for your garden your easily be able to find it. Even if you have a small garden you will be able to find garden furniture that is right for the space you have and the look you want.

staying secure in your garden is easy when you buy Temporary security systems systems - a lot of people who have purchased Temporary security systems systems have never looked back. If you buy yourself some tables and chairs then you should consider where to place them. Patio or decking areas are ideal.

Tables and chairs are the centre of entertainment in your garden so are an essential part of Garden furniture.Deciding on tables and chairs for your garden can be hard. When it comes to Vacant property security systems systems you'll probably want something sleek.

There are many styles of tables available such as round tables, square tables, wood tables, metal, glass and various other materials. Once you have decided on a table shape and design then you'll need to buy chairs. Usually you can buy chairs that match.

Garden furniture such as Vacant property security systems systems should be your next choice because they make a garden perfect for security. There are tons of different Vacant property security systems systems and Vacant property security systems systems available and there are lots of shapes and sizes to choose from.

If you want stylish Garden furniture then you should definitely look at Vacant property security systems systems. Try and choose a set that are sleek. Garden gate designs vary a lot so you should do some research into what designs you like before you decide to purchase.

It's easy to find Vacant property security systems systems because you can find them in almost any Garden store whether you look online or offline. The final thing that you'll need to think about is how much you are able to spend. Sort out a budget and stick to it.

Make sure you choose a store that has a good selection of Temporary security systems systems. There are tons of places you could go. Homebase and B&Q, among others, are probably the most popular places to buy Vacant property security systems systems in the UK.

You will be able to consider the ranges available once you have decided on a shop and a budget for your Vacant property security systems systems. Providing you have done your research, you should find buying Vacant property security systems systems for your home and easy and fun thing to do.

If you have a lot of parties or BBQs then Garden furniture is a must for your home even if you only have limited space. Vacant property security systems systems are available for all sizes of garden so you should be able to find what you're looking for no problem.

A lot of people benefit from Vacant property security systems systems and it's definitely something you should consider no matter what kind of garden you have. Overall, Vacant property security systems systems are relatively cheap to buy in most places so even if you don't have a huge budget you can enjoy yourself outdoors.

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Security service systems are a great way to make sure that your outdoor space and house is secure and safe.

By Ewan A Dodd

Having a stylish and secure garden is a dream that a lot of people have. Security service systems systems can really make a garden whole. Security service systems systems comes in various shapes and sizes so you should easily be able to find some that'll suit your tastes.

Security service systems systems such as chairs, benches, tables and loungers make a garden stylish and very staying secure so you can enjoy it. There are plenty of options available, even for small gardens. garden furniture is suitable for almost any garden size and shape.

A lot of people enjoy their gardens because they purchase garden furniture which means they can relax in the outdoors. The first thing you should consider is where you want your garden furniture. Patios or decking areas are ideal for tables and chairs.

Tables and chairs are the centre of entertainment in your garden so are an essential part of Garden furniture.Deciding on tables and chairs for your garden can be hard. When it comes to Security service systems systems you'll probably want something sleek.

You will need to decide on the materials for your table. Wood, metal and glass are just a few of the options available for Garden furniture tables. When you have a table you should be able to get chairs that match and you'll have the centre of your Security service systems systems sorted.

Garden furniture such as Security service systems systems should be your next choice because they make a garden perfect for security. There are tons of different Security service systems systems and Security service systems systems available and there are lots of shapes and sizes to choose from.

If you want stylish Garden furniture then you should definitely look at Security service systems systems. Try and choose a set that are sleek. Garden gate designs vary a lot so you should do some research into what designs you like before you decide to purchase.

It's easy to find Security service systems systems because you can find them in almost any Garden store whether you look online or offline. The final thing that you'll need to think about is how much you are able to spend. Sort out a budget and stick to it.

You'll also need to know where to buy your Security service systems systems. There are several places such as large garden stores. The most popular places in the UK to buy Security service systems systems are probably B&Q and Homebase or in catalogues.

You will be able to consider the ranges available once you have decided on a shop and a budget for your Security service systems systems. Providing you have done your research, you should find buying Security service systems systems for your home and easy and fun thing to do.

BBQs and parties really benefit from Garden furniture so you should always consider it an option if you have a nice big garden. Even if you have a small garden you should be able to find garden furniture that is suitable for the size of garden you have.

A lot of people benefit from Security service systems systems and it's definitely something you should consider no matter what kind of garden you have. Overall, Security service systems systems are relatively cheap to buy in most places so even if you don't have a huge budget you can enjoy yourself outdoors.

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Monday, May 18, 2009

Fitness Ultimatum by Jillian Michaels Set For Release on Wii

By Patrick Daniels

Fitness guru Jillian Michaels is back with a new fitness game based on the Wii platform. The new release, called Fitness Ultimatum, offers a unique way to get in shape.

When you begin Fitness Ultimatum, you'll play the role of a new recruit in real-life fitness expert and celebrity trainer Jillian Michaels' "boot camp". You can navigate through the different exercises, routines, and games by selecting different locations in the training camp using the intuitive controls of the Wiimote. The Jillian Michaels avatar will help guide you through "boot camp", offering encouragement and advice and even chastising you if you fall behind. It's hard not to stay motivated when you have fitness guru Jillian Michaels with you every step of the way!

Unlike other fitness games out there, Jillian Michaels' Fitness Ultimatum uses the Wii gaming system's unique accessories to let you physically interact with the game. For example, you can use the Wii Balance Board to jog, jump, or navigate an obstacle course, and you can use the Wiimote to pummel a punching bag or row a kayak. In each case, you will move your body the same way as you would in a real-life fitness setting. It's a fun and exciting way to tone up and lose some weight, and there are plenty of exercises and games to choose from, so you'll never get bored. You may also enjoy playing head-to-head with friends and family members with Competitive Campfire mode. Compete to see who can burn the most calories or choose to play together just for fun.

Whether you're just a couch potato or you're already a fitness guru, Fitness Ultimatum lets you choose a level of difficulty so that you can customize the game to suit your current level of fitness and your desired level of intensity. You can also choose from a variety of workout lengths to make it easy to fit them into your busy schedule. If you're working toward long-term weight loss or fitness, Jillian Michaels will help you select a set of fitness goals and track your progress toward achieving them. You'll also be able to examine how much weight you're losing or how well you're training using interactive graphs and statistical data.

In addition to all of the games and workouts and interaction, Fitness Ultimatum also includes videos on nutrition and weight loss from a health perspective. If a gym membership is something you are not interested in, then Fitness Ultimatum offers a good alternative.

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