Martial Arts Leadership and Quotes

Attitude Reflects Leadership

In the movie 'Remember the Titans' the Captain and Vice Captain of the now famous NFL football team, The Titans, are discussing their team. The Captain is disgruntled with the way the Vice Captain's team mates are contributing to the success of the team at practice. At that moment the Vice Captain looks to the Captain and says 'Attitude reflects leadership'.

To me, this sums up the basis for leadership. There is a lot being written and said about leaders having to inspire people to be the best they can be, to inspire people to do things they didn't think were possible, and to achieve their own personal and group goals. I concur with the sentiments of the thousands upon thousands of books and speeches that have been given along this premise.

However, my personal belief is that leadership starts from within the leader and the standards that the leader sets for themselves. Like anything, the attitude of the team is a direct reflection of the attitude of the leader, and the standards by which the leader holds themselves to.

The greatest leaders in the world have held themselves personally to a standard higher than anybody else could hold them to. They inspire people by setting their own standards, their own goals, and not settling for mediocrity.

A mediocre team is a reflection of mediocre leadership, and that mediocre leadership is a reflection of the standards and expectations the leader places on themselves. In the most simplistic version of this, if the leader is always 5 minutes late for meetings, and arrives disheveled and disorganized, you can be guaranteed that the team knows its OK to turn up disorganized and always late. Attitude reflects leadership.

Favorite Martial Arts Leadership Quote?

“Leadership is the art of getting someone else to do what you want done because he wants to do it.” - Dwight Eisenhower

“The first responsibility of the leader is to define reality. The last is to say thank you. In between, the leader is a servant.” - Max DePree“

A leader is best when people barely know he exists, not so good when people obey and acclaim him, worst when they despise him. But of a good leader, who talks little, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say, ‘We did this ourselves.’” - Lao-Tzu

“A leader leads by example, whether he wants to or not.” - Anonymous

“Management is efficiency in climbing the ladder of success. Leadership determines whether the ladder is leaning against the right wall.” - Stephen Covey

“Before you become a leader, success is all about developing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about developing others.” - Jack Welch

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, then you are a leader.” - John Quincy Adams

“Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.” - John Kennedy

http://talkfortyfourseminars.typepad.com/talk/2007/01/attitude_reflec.html

Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.GoshinGear.com/

http://www.YourWorthDefending.com/

Providing Instruction/Lessons in Martial Arts, Self Defense, Judo and Karate, for Kids, Teens and Adults in the Cave Creek, Phoenix, Scottsdale and the entire north valley of Arizona since 1991.

Karate Perspective - Happy Thanksgiving

With Thanksgiving coming up, it should remind all of us to be thankful for all that we have.

If one thing is certain, it is that things change. We should count our blessings every day and we should teach our children to do the same.

It's easy to be thinking about the things we don't have... instead of focusing on things we do.

Happy Thanksgiving.

See you in class

Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.GoshinGear.com

http://www.YourWorthDefending.com

Karate Kids - Taking Action - TNT

Today, Not Tomorrow - TNT

There are several immutable laws of corporations, and our community:

• Everyone has exactly the same amount of time as everyone else... no more and no less.
• Some people accomplish vastly more than others and have time to spare.
• Any given task will eventually expand to fill and then exceed the time available to do it.

Our personal tasks are plagued by insidious time-eaters... homework, reports, telephone calls, video games and other priorities. The tips in this blog are simple to understand but they take conscious effort to actually do.

If you have the self-awareness and self-discipline to use these techniques, you will be amazed at the results.

ACTION TNT (Today, Not Tomorrow)
The shortest path between two points is a straight line. Action Today, Not Tomorrow is a key underlying concept to techniques that save enormous amounts of time. Consider for a moment, the way you handle the homework. Most students scan/read the assignment five or six times before actually taking action. We as parents scan the mail for important letters and then set them aside. Then we review/read the stack again, selecting a few more to take action on. The process is repeated again and again, and with each cycle the same pieces of paper are handled. The minutes tick away, add up to hours, and disappear.

You can conquer one of the most insidious time wasters by setting a hard-and-fast rule to HANDLE A PIECE OF PAPER ONCE... OR AT MOST, TWICE.

Here’s How:

1. Set aside a time each day for answering letters or doing your homework. Then don’t even touch the pile until you’re ready to take action and answer the question immediately as you read them. And get rid of them. “GETTER DONE”

2. Put other projects that don’t require immediate action into a folder labeled: Answer This Week. Don’t touch the folder again until you block out a time period to answer the task in that folder. Then take the first project from the stack and answer it. And get rid of it.

The same rule applies to REPORTS. If a report requires action, then ACT on it, file it, and get rid of it. If you can discipline yourself to handling paper ONCE, the time saving can be enormous.

PRIORITY AND POSTERIORITIES LIST
The same principle of organization carries over into sports or lessons. There’s a natural human tendency to work on the lowest priority tasks first, because they’re easier to do. Ironically, most people then defer action on more important priorities, because they’re more complex and difficult. The solution is to objectively, write down, maintain, and live by a LIST of:

• (A-list) Priorities that must be done immediately, within twenty-four hours.
• (B-list) Priorities that must be done by a specified date.
• (C-list) Posteriorities that will be nice to do when time becomes available.

Organized, effective professionals use lists as a way of life. When you look objectively at the A-list, it becomes a written unavoidable conscience that forces you to face up to doing the most important things first. When a priority goes on the immediate list, it is accompanied by a commitment that the task will be done even it means staying late or taking it home. It WILL be done. And when it is done, it is removed from the list.

Some people will argue that they don’t need to write down the immediate priorities, because they KNOW what needs to be done. Well that’s a trap. Every new priority conflicts with, and must mesh with, all the others. The written list is the only effective way to put organization, objectivity, and self-discipline into the process.

For date-scheduled tasks, plan and schedule a block of time when the B-list priority jumps up to the immediate, A priority list, i.e. when the time comes, the task must be completed within twenty-four hours. Then make sure that the block of immediate time is scheduled well in advance of the due date. When it is finished, it is removed from the list.

The most interesting aspect of this approach is to observe the third C-list of posteriorities. These are called posteriorities since they are of lesser importance and should come behind everything else. In the absence of an A,B,C list, most people spend time doing these lesser, C priorities FIRST. After a while, you’ll discover that many of the nice-to-do, C-list items never get done. You can begin removing posteriorities from the bottom of the list with the realization that they’re nice to do, but they’re not essential.

Picture found at - www.quizilla.com

Article found at - http://www.nibblemagazine.net/action_tnt.htm

Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.GoshinGear.com

http://www.YourWorthDefending.com

Arizona: Taekwondo Karate kids Ju-jitsu / Jiu-jitsu Grappling Kickboxing Hapkido Judo Kung Fu Bruce Lee's Jeet Kune Do Escrima Kali Arnis Wushu Aikido Judo Kempo / Kenpo Yoga TaiChi Self Defense Training Practical Street Defense Women's Self Defense Stranger Danger Bully Busting Workplace violence School violence Personal Training Executive Self Defense Bodyguard Boxing Weapons Extreme Martial Arts (XMA) Black Belt Training Advanced

Honesty Quotations

Honesty is such a lonely word. Everyone is so untrue. Honesty is hardly ever heard. ~ Billy joel

We tell lies when we are afraid... afraid of what we don't know, afraid of what others will think, afraid of what will be found out about us. But every time we tell a lie, the thing that we fear grows stronger. ~Tad Williams

Truth fears no questions. ~Unknown

Honesty is the first chapter of the book of wisdom. ~Thomas Jefferson

Pretty much all the honest truth telling in the world is done by children. ~Oliver Wendell

Men occasionally stumble over the truth, but most of them pick themselves up and hurry off as if nothing had happened. ~Winston Churchill

The truth is more important than the facts. ~Frank Lloyd Wright

If you tell the truth you don't have to remember anything. ~Mark Twain

Who lies for you will lie against you. ~Bosnian Proverb

No man has a good enough memory to make a successful liar. ~Abraham Lincoln

Make yourself an honest man, and then you may be sure there is one less rascal in the world. ~Thomas Carlyle

A half truth is a whole lie. ~Yiddish Proverb

Those who think it is permissible to tell white lies soon grow color-blind. ~Austin O'Malley

The most dangerous untruths are truths moderately distorted. ~Georg Christoph Lichtenberg

With lies you may get ahead in the world - but you can never go back. ~Russian proverb

A lie has speed, but truth has endurance. ~Edgar J. Mohn

When you stretch the truth, watch out for the snapback. ~Bill Copeland

Truth is the most valuable thing we have, so I try to conserve it. ~Mark Twain

A lie may take care of the present, but it has no future. ~Author Unknown

Honesty is... Self Defense. ~ Goshin Karate

http://www.quotegarden.com/honesty.html

Photo courtesy of http://www.livingvalues.net/posters/Posters2.htm

Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.goshingear.com/

http://www.yourworthdefending.com/

Providing Instruction/Lessons in Martial Arts, Self Defense, Judo and Karate, for Kids, Teens and Adults in the Cave Creek, Phoenix, Scottsdale and the entire north valley of Arizona since 1991.

Karate Kids Face Bullying With Confidence

Thank you to Kidpower Teenpower Fullpower International for permission to use the following copyrighted article, which is an excerpt from The Kidpower Book for Caring Adults. Kidpower is a nonprofit organization that has brought empowering effective “People Safety” skills to over a million children, teenagers, and adults, including those with special needs, of many different cultures around the world. Visit their website at www.kidpower.org for information on their free monthly e-newsletter, other articles, publications for sale, and services.

Skills Kids Can Use Right Away
Bullying prevention skills are best learned through hands-on practice. The KIDPOWER approach is to use People Safety skills to help our students rehearse how to handle different problems such as bullying. The key is to coach students in a positive step-by-step fashion rather than making this a test. Here are some practices you can work on with the young people in your life.

1. Walking with Awareness, Calm and Confidence
People are less likely to be picked on if they walk and sit with awareness, calm and confidence.. Awareness, calm and confidence means keeping one's head up, back straight, taking assertive steps, looking around, having a peaceful face and body, and moving away from people who might cause trouble.

Show your child the difference between being passive, aggressive and assertive in body language, tone of voice and choice of words. Have your child walk across the floor, coaching her or him to be successful, by saying for example; "That's great!" "Now take bigger steps", "Look around you" "Straighten your back." etc.

2. Leaving in a Powerful Positive Way
The best self-defense tactic is called "target denial," which means "don't be there." Act out a scenario where maybe your child is walking in the school corridor (or any other place where he or she might bullied). You can pretend to be a bully standing by the wall saying mean things. Ask your child what these mean things might be because what is considered insulting or upsetting is different for different people, times, and places.

Coach your child to veer around the bully in order to move out of reach. Remind your child to leave with awareness, calm and confidence, glancing back to see where the bully is. Let your child practicing saying something neutral in a normal tone of voice like "See you later!" or "Have a nice day!" while calmly and confidently moving away. Point out that stepping out of line or changing seats is often the safest choice.

3. Setting a Boundary
If a bully is following or threatening your child in a situation where she or he cannot just leave, your child needs to be able to set a clear boundary.

Pretend to poke your child in the back (do this very gently; the idea is not to be hurtful). Coach your child to turn, stand up tall, put his or her hands up in front of the body like a fence, palms out and open, and say "Stop!".

Coach your child to have a calm but clear voice and polite firm words- not whiney and not aggressive. Show how to do it and praise your child for trying -even though she or he does not get it right to begin with. Realize that this might be very hard and triggering for your child (and maybe for you too).

Children need support to learn these skills. The idea is that your child takes charge of his or her space by moving away and, if need be, setting boundaries as soon as a problem is about to start - so that your child doesn't wait until the bullying is already happening.

4. Using Your Voice
If your child does get into a situation where somebody is trying to push or hit or knuckle her or his head, you could practice by holding your child gently and acting as if you are going to do the action gently. Coach your child to pull away and yell NO! really loudly. Coach him or her to say "STOP! I don't like that!" Coach your child to look the bully in the eyes and speak in a firm voice with both hands up and in front like a fence. Teach your child to leave and go to an adult for help.

5. Protecting Your Feelings From Name-Calling
Schools, youth groups, and families should create harassment-free zones just as workplaces should. However, you can teach children how to protect themselves from insults. Tell your child that saying something mean back makes the problem bigger, not better.
One way to take the power out of hurting words by is saying them out loud and imagining throwing them away. Doing this physically and out loud at home will help a child to do this in his or her imagination at school.

Help your child practice throwing the mean things that other people are saying into a trash can. Have your child then say something positive out loud to himself or herself to take in. For example, if someone says, "I don't like you, " you can throw those words away and say, "I like myself." If someone says, "You are stupid" you can throw those words away and say, "I'm smart." If someone says, "I don't want to play with you" then you can throw those words away and say, "I will find another friend."

6. Speaking Up for Inclusion
Being left out is a major form of bullying. Exclusion should be clearly against the rules at school. A child can practice persisting in asking to join a game.
Pretend to be a bully who wants to exclude.

Have your child walk up and say, "I want to play." Coach your child to sound and look positive and friendly, not whiny or aggressive.

Ask your child the reasons that kids give for excluding him or her. Use those reasons so your child can practice persisting. For example, if the reason is, "You're not good enough" your child can practice saying "I'll get better if I practice!" If the reason is, "There are too many already," your child might practice saying, "There's always room for one more." If the reason is, "You cheated last time, " your child might practice saying, "I did not understand the rules. Let's make sure we agree on the rules this time."

7. Being Persistent in Getting Help
Children who are being bullied need to be able to tell teachers, parents, and other adults in charge what is happening in the moment clearly and calmly and persistently even if these adults are very distracted or rude - and even if asking for help has not worked before. Learning how to have polite firm words, body language and tone of voice even under pressure and to not give up when asking for help is a life-long skill.

We have found that practice is helpful for both children and adults in learning how to persist and get help when you need it. Here is one you can do with your child.

Pretend to be a teacher or someone else who your child might expect help and support from. Tell your child who you are pretending to be and where you might be at school. Have your child start saying in a clear calm voice, "Excuse me I have a safety problem".

You pretend to be busy and just ignore your child! Coach him or her to keep going and say: "Excuse me, I really need your help".

Act irritated and impatient and say, "Yes. what is it now?" and keep being busy.

Coach your child to say something specific like, "The girls over there are calling me names and not letting me play with them. I have told them I don't like being called names and that I want to play but they won't listen. " or "Those boys keep coming up and pushing me. I have tried to stay away from them but they keep coming up to me and won't leave me alone." At school, teachers want children to try to solve their problems first. However, adult intervention is needed if this does not work.

You say: "that's nice!" as if you heard but did not actually listen. This is very common for busy adults.

Coach your child to touch your arm and keep going "Please, to listen to me this is important". Now you get irritated and say "Can't you see I’m busy!

Tell your child that sometimes adults get angry and don’t understand but not to give up in asking for help and to say the specific problem again: "I do not feel safe here because (state specific problem again) ______________."

You minimize and say: "What's the big deal? Just stay away from them."

Coach your child to persistent and say again, "Having this happen is making me feel bad about going to school. Please, I really need you to listen".

Now change your demeanor so that your child can see you are listening and understanding and say "Oh! I am sorry I yelled at you and I am glad you are telling me. Tell me more and we will figure out what to do."

Remind your child that, if the adult still does not listen, it is not his or her fault, but to keep asking until someone does something to fix the problem. Tell your child to please always tell you whenever she or he has a problem with anyone anywhere anytime. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of adults to create safe environments for the children in their lives and to be good role-models for our children by acting as their advocates in powerful respectful ways.

8. Using Physical Self-Defense As a Last Resort
Children need to know when they have the right to hurt someone to stop that person from hurting them. At Goshin Karate & Judo Academy, we teach that fighting is a last resort - when you are about to be harmed and you cannot leave or get help.

However, bullying problems are often not as clear-cut as other personal safety issues. Families have different rules about where they draw the line. Schools will often punish a child who fights back unless parents warn the school in writing ahead of time that, since the school has not protected their children, they will back their children up if they have to fight.

Learning physical self defense helps most children become more confident, even if they never have to use these skills in a real-life situation. Just being more confident helps children to avoid being chosen as a victim most of the time. There are different self defense techniques for bullying than for more dangerous situations -- let your child practice a self defense move like kicking someone in the shins, pinching someone's leg or upper arm, or hitting someone in the chest. You can practice in the air or by holding a sofa cushion. Consider sending your child to a class like Goshin Karate & Judo Academy. - Kids Safe Work shop or our regular karate program

Note: This article is an excerpt from The KIDPOWER Book for Caring Adults: Personal Safety,

Self-Protection, Confidence, and Advocacy for Young People.

http://www.kidpower.org/ARTICLES/Bullying-Prevention-Practices.html'

Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.GoshinGear.com/

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/KidSafe.html

Karate School support "Kindness to the Earth"

5 Simple Ways To Go Green At Home

Since it is World Kindness week, I thought I would post this article.

--------- Be kind to Yourself, Be kind to others and Be kind to the earth.

This article will show you 5 simple steps on how to go green , the energy efficient light bulb idea has been put forth. However, it is repeated over and over by environmentalists because we all have to use artifical light, and we all have to change light bulbs, so next time they burn out, replace them with Energy-Star rated light bulbs that will last you longer and save you money!

Now, with the light bulbs out of the way (and assuming you have made the plans to replace yours!), here are 5 simple ways to go green at home to get you started on a go green lifestyle that won’t cost you anything.

Stop Junk Mail And Read Online!

You don’t put up with junk mail in your email inbox, right? Why would you want it coming to your home, cluttering up your space and just going straight to the recycling bin? All it takes is a few phone calls to tell the companies in question to remove you from their mailing lists.

Aside from getting yourself taken off the advertising lists, there are a couple other ideas that would drastically help reduce the wasted paper, especially with the resources available on the Internet today. For example, how often do you use your phone book? If you’re not using 411 or fridge magnet reminders, you are probably looking online to find the phone number most of the time, am I right? If not, why not give it a shot? That’s a BIG book that we can easily live without nowadays.

Have you ever checked out your favorite magazine online? If not, do it. You can often get the same articles for free on their website, ot if not, you can probably subscribe for less and save yourself money by reading the online version. Do the same with newspapers, and other periodicals, and you just done the planet a huge favor!

Install (And Use!) A Laundry Line

Ok, another reaosn to not cut down that tree in your hard is because you’re going to need it as an anchor for on end of your clothes line. Your dryer is an energy hog and you’ll be saving yourslef some money and going green by hanging out your laundry to dry. On top of that, you will smell like the fresh outdoors and not have to buy Bounce sheets either.

Reuse Ziplocks

This one is a little bit of work and maybe something you won’t feel like doing, but it’s another good way to easily start going green at home without spending money. Save and reuse those freezer bags by rinsing them out really well. Trust me, those things are built to last and you will get lots of extra use out of them. After you’ve quickly rinsed out a bunch you can even use your laundry line to hang them to dry!

Say No To Pesticides On Your Lawn

There are so many good reasons not to use pesticides on your lawn that it deserves it’s own article. However, here’s a quick overview of why this one is on the list. Your children, pets, and local wildlife can be harmed by interaction with pesticides used on your lawn.
Did you know that there are quite a few pesticides that are either known or suspected of being a cause of cancer?

Pesticides send toxins from our lawn into nearby bodies of water which can then harm fish and other wildlife. It’s even possibly in some areas to affect your drinking water.
If you are a lawn care addict and really love for your lawn to look like a golf course, there are alternatives to harmul pesticides that will be featured here soon on Go Green Lifestyle.

Don’t Stock The Fridge With Bottled Water

Water is one of the top most important resources we have and need! Help save it by investing in a water filter for your tap. You will recoup your money in no time from not buying cases of water. For your trips out of the house, pick up a non-toxic, durable travelling water bottle and fill it before you go.

Going green at home can be simple, free, and still have a huge positive impact on the environment. Stay tuned for lots more easy and low cost ways to introduce you and your home to a go green lifestyle!

A Great Way To Help The Environment Is To Spread The Word:

------------- IT AN ACT OF KINDNESS FOR THE EARTH

http://gogreenlifestyle.net/go-green-at-home/5-simple-ways-to-go-green-at-home-for-free/

Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.GoshinGear.com/

http://www.YourWorthDefending.com/

******** DIRECT LINK --- http://www.goshinkarate.com/kidsafe.html

NEXT CLASS – DECEMBER 6th 2008 – 2:00 pm - Please RSVP by calling (480) 951-2236

As part of our ongoing awareness and child's safety program, Goshin Karate & Judo Academy is hosting a FREE 90 minute Kids Safety Workshop Come join us for an informative, positive, active participation class

This event is appropriate for ages 5-12. There is no cost and no obligation.

Goshin Karate promotions Jeff Nitsche to 4th Degree Black Belt.

Dear Jeff,

Congratulations on your well deserved promotion to Yodan, 4th Degree Black Belt in Okinawan Kempo.

You were one of the best Black Belts to have come through Goshin Karate & Judo Academy, both in your intensity of training and your skill set level. You have gone on to establish an excellent karate school - Harbor Martial Arts in Gig Harbor, Washington, as well as continue your training and advancement of your own skills, which is critical to your own growth and that of your students.

I am very proud to see that you have achieved rank in both the Haganah system and in Brazilian Jujitsu, in addition to your existing rank in Okinawan Kempo. It takes a lot of hard work to rank additionally in each of those arts. I have no doubt that your skills will only continue to increase as your training continues to progress.

Therefore, it is with great pride that I am promoting you to your Fourth Degree Black Belt. Congratulations on your achievement!! I can't tell you how proud I am of you and of all that you have achieved.

This is the one of the proudest days in a Sensei’s life, seeing their students grow and promote, so that they can do the same with their students.

Again, congratulations on your promotion to 4th Degree Black Belt. I'm very proud of you and of all of your accomplishments. Great going!

Best of Luck in your many continued endeavors.

Mr. Roger Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.goshingear.com/

http://www.yourworthdefending.com/

Providing Instruction/Lessons in Martial Arts, Self Defense, Judo and Karate, for Kids, Teens and Adults in the Cave Creek, Phoenix, Scottsdale and the entire north valley of Arizona since 1991.

~

~

In this Dojo…

There is Family… We all share the memories.

Community… Together we build a better person.

Respect… Is only the beginning…middle and end

Training… Is only in the mind, and facilitated through body

Pride… Takes a leave of absence

Spirit… More than fills its void

Triumph… Is what you get when you persevere through Defeat

In this Studio…There are Martial Artists.

~

~

Benefits of Martial Arts/Karate Training For Kids

Scottsdale Arizona - Goshin Karate & Judo Academy teachs Karate to Kids.



Admit it. When the going gets tough at home, we’ve all plopped the kids in front of the television and breathed a sigh of relief. Finally, we can get started on dinner, maybe check email or sort that massive pile of laundry.

But when your five-year old yells at you “Mom, Kids Rule!” or your ten-year old horrifies you with language that would make a sailor blush, you realize there must be something amiss with what these “family programs” really teach our kids. And sadly, its happening all over the media today, from sports to cartoons, and our children are learning things that we, as parents, vowed we would never teach them. Old fashioned values like respect and self-discipline, seems to have been forgotten, replaced by the dreaded “bling bling” pop culture of today.

Just the thought of your angelic three-year old morphing into a designer-clad, smart-mouthed, money-worshipping, me-obsessed, lay-about is enough to make any parent consider that threatening military school brochure, but there is a solution out there to consider.
Martial Arts training.

From Ninja Turtles to The Karate Kid to Kung Fu Panda
You and your kids have all seen the flying kicks, battle cries and mighty chops of their favorite TV characters, as they beat the bad guys to submission – but, you may ask, how on earth can these acts of violence teach my child anything worthwhile?

First, know that what you see on television (save perhaps the Karate Kid) is a far cry from what real martial arts are all about. The fact is, martial arts training is based on non-violence.
Originating in Asia (mainly Japan, China and Korea, although Thailand and Vietnam have their own practices as well), martial arts range from a variety of types and styles, all of which are based on well-rounded, moral teachings. The beauty of learning martial arts is that it encompasses not just the physical aspect of the “sport”, but mental and emotional lessons as well.

Comparing that to other kid’s activities and sports, where fierce competitiveness and “winning at all costs” seems to be the order of the day, it’s not surprising that many children grapple with issues of self-esteem and misplaced aggression.

Now imagine your child actually learning valuable life lessons, skills that he will take throughout life, laying the foundation for a happy, well-adjusted and fulfilled adult life. If only karate for kids was popular in the 70’s, when I was growing up!

The Advantages
• Karate, and other martial arts for kids, builds confidence and self-esteem as well as self-discipline, respect, concentration and courtesy.

• Many martial arts schools also offer leadership courses for kids, in conjunction with their karate for kids programs, or similar lessons.

• Martial Arts is ideal for children who do not do well in team sports, giving them the ability to flourish this activity, while combining physical and mental practices.

• Many do not realize this, but it is a fact that martial arts training are safer than most school sports.

• Children with special needs, such as ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), learning difficulties and hyperactivity are often recommended to participate in martial arts for kids because of the clear
benefits in its structured training techniques.

Kung-Fu Master or Ninja Warrior?
Before you sign up Junior for the first martial arts class you see, take some time to check out the different methods available, and match it with what you know would suit your child best. This is a good way to avoid any problems that may sprout from a conflict of your child’s personality and the training techniques.

Is your little Zach a sensitive soul? Then maybe a class that doesn’t center on sparring (full-on kicks and punches training) but rather, slower, defensive maneuvers would fare better for him. Kids with an aggressive streak, however, may prefer the more forceful moves and thrive in competitive sparring.

Here’s a quick primer on the kid-friendly martial arts training you’re likely to find:
Martial Arts From Japan

Karate • Uses defensive and aggressive moves• Centers on building strength and endurance• Involves chops, punches, kicks, strikes, blocking and sparring• May use weapons


Judo • Uses gentle, “wrestling-like” movements• Considered one of the safest methods of martial arts• Emphasizes physical control as well as mental development• Engages in competitions

Jujitsu • Uses defensive and aggressive moves• Involves lots of sparring• Teaches a fair amount of weapons training

Aikido• Uses a more “spiritual” and harmonious style in redirecting the aggression of the attacker as the form of defense, using throws, pins, rolls etc. • Taught on the premise of disabling an aggressor without attacking, through your individual inner energy• Does not involve sparring or competitions

Martial Arts From China

Kung-Fu• The generic term referring to Chinese martial arts with a variety of styles• Involves attack movements as well as defensive techniques• Teaches kicks, punches, chops, throws, falls, grappling, katas, leg sweeps and blows among others. • Engages in sparring competitions

Martial Arts From Korea

Taekwondo • Competitive in nature, involves techniques using elaborate footwork and unique high kicks. • Emphasizes strength, force and attack methods.• Engages in lots of sparring and competitions.

Choosing The Right Instruction
If you have an idea of the type of martial arts class you’d like your child to participate in, the next step would be to find the right school. Finding the right class that not only matches your child’s and your needs, in terms of teachers you feel comfortable with, the price, facilities and so on, are all important factors.

Say you’ve found a local place that specializes in Karate for Kids. What are the things you should look for?

1. Good Instructors
Check out their qualifications, teaching methods and watch carefully how they interact with the other children. It should be a fun learning experience!
2. Space and Safety
Obviously you would want to entrust your child in as establishment that is safe, well-maintained, and clean with ample space as well as decent facilities and equipment.
3. School Values
Different martial arts schools inevitably go by different values, for instance, one kid’s karate class may handle aggression in one way, while a judo class would have a different approach. Take some time to observe which school’s ideals match your family’s principles.
4. Prices and Schedules
Prices for martial arts training can vary according to school and location, so make sure you the instruction you choose represents fair value. Finding the most effective way to fit martial arts training into your family’s lifestyle is also essential, knowing what works best with your schedule and other activities. - Remember the old saying - "You get what you pay for."

Baby Blackbelts
Starting your child young in karate training is ideal (children as young as the age of four are usually accepted, as it is also a good way to hone fine motor skills), and lots of parents have found that in as little as a year, their children who were involved in martial arts had noticeably gained positive traits such as increased self-esteem, respect and overall physical fitness.

Many parents also opt to join a martial arts training program themselves, making it a great bonding experience for the entire family.

http://ezinearticles.com/?Benefits-of-Martial-Arts-Training-For-Kids&id=52697

Roger Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.GoshinGear.com

http://www.YourWorthDefending.com

Providing Instruction/Lessons in Martial Arts, Self Defense, Judo and Karate, for Kids, Teens and Adults in the Cave Creek, Phoenix, Scottsdale and the entire north valley of Arizona since 1991.

It's OK to Yell in Karate Class

Effective Parenting Lessons: How to Stop Yelling.

Parents are the models of behavior that children emulate. A child who is continuously yelled at may grow up to believe that this is an appropriate style of communicating.

1. Be Clear With Your Directions. After asking your child to pick up his/her clothes several times, they're still on the floor. Children under 7 may need help getting into the habit of doing a task on a regular basis. Make sure a child is capable of doing the task by him/herself. Children may not admit that they did not understand instructions. When dealing with teens, use the word "I" instead of "You." For example, say, "I notice that you did not pick up your shirt," as opposed to, "You keep leaving your shirt on the floor." Avoid words such as "always, never, all the time."

2. Keep Your Anger in Check. Even though we hate to admit it, the problem sometimes is our own. Your 5-year-old doesn't understand that you had a bad day at work. Give yourself a few minutes before responding. Ask yourself if the situation is important enough to address or to let go. If you need time to yourself, explain to your child that you are not in a good mood and that you will speak to him/her when you are feeling better. If you have family support, have someone take the kids while you sort through your emotions.

3. Determine Who's Problem It Is. Yelling at a child for something that is affecting you will not get your problem resolved. Teens may not know that you have a headache when they play their music loudly. Children need parents to describe what they are feeling in order for them to understand. If you yell at your child because he/she is showing no appreciation for a gift you have given to him/her, your child will not understand that you are feeling unappreciated or rejected by his/her reaction. Be aware of how you interpret your child's behavior or reaction.

4. Meet Your Own Basic Needs. If you are addressing your child when you are tired or hungry, then your needs aren't being met, which is contributing to your frustration. Unless a situation needs immediate attention, first eat or rest before speaking to your child.

5. Respond, Don't React. Yelling at a child who is trying to annoy you gives the child the upper hand by getting a reaction out of you. Instead, get your child's attention, look at him/her in the eyes and say what you have to say. Constantly reacting to behavior contributes to misbehavior for the sake of getting attention. Use fewer words if you have to. Instead of saying "I am so sick and tired of reminding you to put away your book bag!" say "Book bag. Closet. Now." Give your child nonverbal signals to get your point across.

http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/parenting_insights/116770

Picture found at - http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/2/5/4/5/ar12033669054525.jpg

Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.GoshinGear.com/
http://www.YourWorthDefending.com/

PROVIDING INSTRUCTION: Karate for Kids Arizona Karate Lessons Arizona Karate School for Kids Child Karate Phoenix Martial Arts for Children Arizona Karate Scottsdale Kid Karate Arizona Karate for Child Self Defense for Women Martial Arts Mesa Martial Arts Arizona Cardio Kick Boxing Class Kick Boxing Glendale Kick Boxing Arizona Tae Kwon Do Scottsdale Karate Cave Creek kids children families Arizona Self Defense

Karate School in Scottsdale - Helping the Community

White Van Stalking Kids in the North Valley

Neighborhood Watch
November 4, 2008, 8:22 PM

Dear Neighborhood Friends,

The last three weeks I have spotted an old white work van lingering around our neighborhood. I've seen it in the mornings, afternoons and evenings. It is always parked in a different place, when I try to get the license plate it takes off. I've warned my children to stay away from it.

Well a mothers intuition is always right.

Halloween night my oldest, Brandon was biking home with his friend from another friends house. He spotted the van, he got off the road and went through Copper Canyon Elementary located at 17650 N. 54th Street Scottsdale, Arizona 85254 to get back to Grovers.

As he and his friend came out of Copper Canyon the van was waiting. They split up. It followed Brandon down Grovers, it stopped, the door opened and a man tried to grab him. When it stopped he dropped his bike and ran into the nearest house (thank goodness the door was open.) The van took off towards his friend. He got him on the cell and his friend hid in a bush as the van slowly went by. They came home and never called the police.

I was out of town, he called me frantically. I calmed him down and waited until I got home.
Come to find out my neighbors house (the Judge... the one with the green dumpster in the driveway) had been robbed. Someone last week took everything they owned in their back yard ($4000 worth). They are not living there as of now because their house caught on fire last month and it is not ready to live in, there is nothing inside.

Last night driving home about 10 pm, My son and I spotted the van on our Street, Grovers, we followed it and it parked in a dark corner of the Copper Canyon parking lot. There were two men, one mexican and one white. I got the plates and we called the police. They arrived at the school but the van was gone. They will have increased police patrols in our neighborhood.
All I ask is for everyone to please keep your eyes open and please watch your children.

We were very lucky and blessed Brandon got away. Please pass this on to everyone in the neighborhood, if we all keep our eyes open it can only help.

Thanks, Sharon Sutton

FREE KIDS SAFETY WORKSHOP - December 6th at 2:00pm

http://goshinkarate.blogspot.com/2008/11/kids-safe-workshop-free-class-december.html

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Parents, review these 10 critical safety tips with your kids. Reinforce them daily and your kids will become safety experts in no time at all.

1. Always TAKE A FRIEND when walking or riding your bike to and from school. It’s safer and more fun to be with your friends. Walk and ride in well-lit areas, and never take short cuts. Follow all the bicycle rules, especially the one about riding on the right side of the street.

2. Stay with a group while waiting at the bus stop. If anyone bothers you while going to or from school, get away from that person, and TELL a trusted adult like your parents or teacher. If an adult approaches you for help or directions, remember grownups needing help should not ask children for help; they should ask other adults.

3. If someone you don’t know or feel comfortable with offers you a ride, say NO. Never hitchhike, and only accept a ride from someone if your parents have told you it is okay.

4. If someone follows you on foot, get away from him or her as quickly as you can. If someone follows you in a car, turn around and go in the other direction. Always be sure to TELL your parents or a trusted adult what happened.

5. If someone tries to take you somewhere, quickly get away and yell, “This person is trying to take me away!” or “This person is not my dad(mother)!”

6. Never leave school with someone you don’t feel comfortable with or know. Always CHECK FIRST with your parents or another trusted adult. If someone you don’t know or feel comfortable with tells you that there is an emergency and they want you to go with them, always CHECK FIRST before you do anything. Make sure you TELL a trusted adult if you notice someone you don’t know hanging around.

7. Leave items and clothing with your name on them at home. If someone you don’t know calls out your name, don’t be fooled or confused.

8. If you want to change your plans after school, always CHECK FIRST with your parents. Never play in parks, malls, or video arcades by yourself. Make sure you have your parents’ permission, and they know where you are going to be. Never accept money or gifts from anyone until you CHECK FIRST with your parents.

9. If you go home alone after school, check to see that everything is okay before you go in. Once inside, call your parents to let them know that you are okay. Make sure you follow your “Home Alone” rules of keeping the door locked; not opening the door for or talking to anyone who stops by unless the person is a trusted family friend or relative, you feel comfortable being alone with that person, and the visit has been pre-approved by your parents; and not telling people who call that you are home alone. Have a neighbor or trusted adult that you can call if you’re scared or there’s an emergency.

10. Trust your feelings. If someone makes you feel scared or uncomfortable, get away as fast as you can and TELL a trusted adult. You deserve to feel safe, and you should keep asking until you get the help you need.

Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.GoshinGear.com/

http://www.YourWorthDefending.com/

FREE COMMUNITY EVENT - http://www.goshinkarate.com/kidsafe.html

Providing Instruction/Lessons in Martial Arts, Self Defense, Judo and Karate, for Kids, Teens and Adults in the Cave Creek, Phoenix, Scottsdale and the entire north valley of Arizona since 1991.

An Apple a Day Really does Keeps the Doctor Away

Karate Kids are Eating Healty

“An apple a day keeps the doctor away”?but why? Do you really know what makes an apple so special? Why is it that we never hear an orange or a banana a day keeps the doctor away?Apples have properties that no other fruits have and its benefits have been proven overtime. You will be able to get the benefits of these properties individually with other fruits, but an apple combines everything and makes it simpler. It has been shown over and over that if it’s not simple, easy and fast, people won’t take care of their health.

1-Apple contains Vitamin C. Vitamin C helps greatly your immune system. A lot of people who lack Vitamin C in their diet have poor healing, bruise easily and have bleeding gums.

2-Prevent Heart Diseases. The reason it can prevent both coronary heart disease and cardiovascular disease is because apples are rich in flavonoid. Flavonoids are also known for their antioxidant effects.

3-Low in calories. A regular size apple has between 70-100 calories. Eating an apple when craving for candy or chocolate can make the desire disappear since apple in itself contains sugar, but gives you only a % of the calories.

4-Prevent Cancers. Notice the plural. We all know that cancer comes in several forms and in different places. Apples target multiple cancers such as colon cancer, prostate cancer and breast cancer in women.

5-Apples contain phenols, which have a double effect on cholesterol. It reduces bad cholesterol and increases good cholesterol. They prevent LDL cholesterol from turning into oxidized LDL, a very dangerous form of bad cholesterol which can be deadly.

6-Prevent tooth decay. Tooth decay is an infection that seriously damages the structure of your teeth, which is caused primarily because of bacteria. The juice of the apples has properties that can kill up to 80% of bacteria. So there you have it, an apple a day also keeps the dentist away!

7-Protects your brain from brain disease. This is something many people don’t know, and when you consider that your brain makes the person you are, it gives a whole new perspective. Apple has substances called phytonutrients, and these phytonutrients prevents neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinsonism.

8-Healthier Lungs. A research at the University of Nottingham Research shows that people who eat 5 apples or more per week has lower respiratory problems, including asthma.

9-They taste great! And not only that, they also come in many flavors and colors. Not in a mood for a green apple? Why not get a red one, or a macintosh! Their taste can vary greatly, but still give you all the apple benefits. Variety is an important element to maintaining your health.

On average, Americans consume around 20 pounds of apples a year, which comes to around 1 apple a week. Unfortunately, while an apple a week is better than nothing, it is nowhere close to being able to extract all the advantages apples have to offer. Eating apples is part of balanced and healthy diet than will increase your longevity, so why limit yourself to only 1 per week?

http://www.bspcn.com/2007/08/05/9-reasons-why-an-apple-a-day-really-keeps-the-doctor-away/

Roger

Mr. Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.GoshinGear.com/

http://www.yourworthdefending.com/

Goshin Karate - Training Tips

Karate Your Journey To A Black Belt - Top 10 Martial Arts Training Tips For Reaching Your Goal


The primary goal of any beginner or intermediate student of karate is usually to attain the coveted black belt. The black belt represents technical excellence, high ethical standards and the ability of a student to endure a strict and rigorous training regimen. To those “in the know,” people with black belts are seen as being more than just average practitioners. They are rightfully seen as being highly disciplined and skillful proponents of the art.

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So what are the steps that any beginner can take now to ensure a successful path to black belt? This article lays out the top ten planning and training tips for becoming a black belt. If you read and follow these tips, you will significantly increase your chances of success in getting to the destination of “Black Belt” as a serious karate practitioner.

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Tip #1: Define what the black belt means to you personally. There is an expression that goes “if you don't know where you're going, you will probably end up somewhere else...” By defining what the black belt means, you now have specific reasons to become one. You must take full ownership of your chosen goal if you are to achieve it. Your instructor and fellow students will be more than happy to encourage you along the way but the responsibility of reaching your goal lies squarely on your shoulders.

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Tip #2: Set a realistic period in which to reach your goal. It typically takes three to four years of regular training to attain the level of 1st degree black belt. If you say you are going to do it in one year then you are probably being overly ambitious. Likewise, if you set a timetable of eight years to reach the goal, then you are probably not stretching yourself enough. Find out what the minimum time is and what the average time is, and set your goal somewhere in between the two.

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Tip #3: Break your overall goal down into smaller content chunks. "A mile is a trial, but an inch is a cinch.” You cannot possibly learn everything that you need in order to become a black belt at once, so it is very important that you break down the overall syllabus and content into smaller bite-sized chunks. Fortunately, this has been done for you already, as each belt level has specific required content. Get a copy of the grading syllabus and focus on what you need now instead of what you will need six months down the road.

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Tip #4: Understand exactly what content you need to learn. You need to know exactly what is required of you at each level. Again, you should refer to the grading syllabus and any student resources that are available. Take note of what is taught in class, focus primarily on what is needed for your next belt, and not just on what is fun.Knowing your required content is like having a detailed roadmap to your destination. If you know where you are going and you have the directions of how to get there, then you are more likely to arrive at your chosen destination on schedule.

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Tip #5: Get to know the black belts in your club and ask them how they were successful. “Hang around with the winners” is excellent advice. A black belt is somebody who has already achieved the goal that you are striving to reach. They obviously know what it takes to get to the destination otherwise; they would not be wearing the black belt. Do not be afraid to approach the black belts in your club and find out what it was like for them during their journey to black belt. They will more than likely have lots of great advice that will be very helpful and will be more than happy to share their own personal success stories as well as the challenges they faced on the journey.

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Tip #6: Go to class on a regular basis“90% of success comes from 'showing up.” There are no short cuts. Consistent and persistent practice will lead to positive progress and growth. You must make your weekly karate classes a priority and a necessary discipline in your ultimate journey to becoming a black belt. Books and training videos can be great tools, but you cannot learn everything you need from a book or a DVD. You need a qualified instructor who can guide you along the way and who will give you appropriate feedback.

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Tip #7: Practice at home. Repetition and practice are keys to success in anything you do, especially in karate. Going to class on a regular basis is essential, but practice at home is also highly recommended if you are to make it to black belt within your desired timeframe. Practicing at home allows you to work on the things that you know you need to practice more and gives you a chance to digest the content that is given to you each week in class.

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Tip #8: Read books on karate and your style and do some research on the Internet. There is nothing wrong with going out and buying a good book on your chosen art or style or buying DVDs that detail different training methods. Research on the Internet is also a good idea. Your instructor should not be your only resource when it comes to your karate. You need to take full responsibility for your success and nowadays there are so many great resources out there that do not cost much and that offer very valuable tips and advice to improve your training. Take advantage of them as much as possible.

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Tip #9: Find a training partner who shares the same goal and push each other to the next level. There is nothing more motivating than a bit of friendly competition. Try to find someone in your club who is at a similar level and ability and team up with them through your common goal of becoming black belts. Together you will be able to push each other through the tough times, celebrate with each other on each successful step forward, and keep each other focused on the result of your efforts.

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Tip #10: Never give up on becoming a black belt. Karate success can be summed up in three words... “Begin and Continue.” If you are vigorously implementing the previous nine tips then tip #10 should be a no-brainer. However when the inevitable doubts as to whether or not you will be successful in reaching your goal rear their ugly heads, just remind yourself of one immutable truth. Giving up on your goal guarantees failure. Persistence, on the other hand, will lead you to your desired result. If you are steadfast in the value of reaching your goal then giving up will never be a viable option.

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These then, are the top ten tips for becoming a black belt. If you follow this advice and train hard then it is inevitable that you will attain the coveted black belt. There are no hidden secrets or special training methods just clear goals, consistent practice and hard work. In addition, one more thing - enjoy your journey on your way to success and the black belt, because if it is not fun and enjoyable to you, then none of the rest of this advice will fall into place.

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http://www.searchnfindarticles.com/Article/Karate--Your-Journey-To-A-Black-Belt-In-Karate--Top-10-Training-Tips-For-Reaching-Your-Goal---Martial-Arts/39884

Mr. Roger Boggs - Sensei
Goshin Karate & Judo Academy
6245 E. Bell Road #120
Scottsdale, AZ. 85254
480-951-2236

http://www.GoshinKarate.com/
http://www.GoshinCares.com/
http://www.GoshinGirls.com/
http://www.GoshinGear.com/

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Scottsdale Arizona: Taekwondo Karate kids Ju-jitsu / Jiu-jitsu Grappling Kickboxing Hapkido Judo Kung Fu Bruce Lee's Jeet Kune Do Escrima Kali Arnis Wushu Aikido Judo Kempo / Kenpo Yoga TaiChi Self Defense Training Practical Street Defense Phoenix Arizona Women's Self Defense Stranger Danger Bully Busting Workplace violence School violence Personal Training Executive Self Defense Cave Creek Arizona Bodyguard Boxing Weapons Extreme Martial Arts (XMA) Black Belt Training Advanced