All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International,si provided and alone in the formats DVD-5 orMPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the like is however nevesoffered with a special holograma sticker. Besidesour DVD is characteristed coverings by the higquality in pressure and material. If this DVD and/orthe DVD covering do not corespond to therequirements specified above, it concerns illegalpirat copy.

REF.: LAT-3REF.: LAT-3

The main emphasis of this DVD is edged weapon. Knowing andunderstanding all the dangers associated with any edge weapon.The main theme in this DVD is establishing the priority.

The main emphasis of training with an edged weapon isknowing and understanding all the dangers

associated with this type of weapon. All theWhat ifs, and Yeah buts, are all great

for trial and error, and assumingpredictability. The serious danger ofedge weapons is real, and shouldbe treated as such. This meanswhere you should establishyour training priority to be asurvival tool, in the eventthis situation happens toyou. Lets face it, you arethe one having to survive,not your trainer, helps youtrain your goals, not yourobjective. The trainingpriorities I use in Latosa-Escrima are as follows:reality, technique anddrills. Reality: This is theunderstanding of exactlywhat could happen and thedangers when using or goingagainst an edged weapon.

Techniques: These movementsare trying to give you a

generalization of possibilities, andprobabilities of what may happen.

Drills: Most drills are used to develop andenhance body movement skills used in the

technique application.

Budo international.comORDERS:

hat we live in a multidimensional Universe ismore than a hypothesis at the conventions ofmodern science. Quantum physics hasreached the unthinkable: to place inequations the biggest consciousnessdisruption that man has ever experienced in

his history; it's a giant leap, we've reached to capture theinconceivable in our plane of reality and with thescientific method.The human dwells and exists in itself as an entity

demarcated in a common strip of logos. Some, though,are humanity brain cells, while others occupy a rightplace on the feet of the common body that defines us;but united in a larger conglomerate, we are all arriving atnew ports of consciousness. It doesn't mean that thenews of this quantum leap of planetary consciousnesshas arrived from the first to the last human. No. Everyone,in his or her own evolutionary level, his or her own time,his or her own way, goes through different stages, but asa whole, if the arrow hits a target, there is no doubt thatall of it has reached its goal, not only the tip.Excuse me for abusing the metaphor, but it's not easy

to talk about some things without being perceived as ifyou were trying to pontificate and without relying on anydoctrine that would lead to ambiguity. What I mean isthat somehow, each one of us, partaker of the ordinarythat makes us human, should celebrate the success ofany congener as his or her own. Each light that comeson in the consciousness of the group, even if it's aglimpse of the next step to come, enlightens with greatstrength our way, which is common and plural and at thesame time individual and unique.The compassion of the great masters (regardless of

their culture) has always been based on the security andabsolute certainty of the final unicity of all beings andthings. That compassion is precisely what led them totrace roads, to try to explain their discoveries, to sharetheir certainties, often misunderstood and oftenbetrayed.They say a mother is worth a thousand fathers, but a

Master is worth a thousand mothers. Unfortunately is notalways the case, because there are many who hold thatsacred title, like the one who wears a hat that he can puton or take off at his convenience; I'm speaking here, ofcourse, about true Masters; those who teach by exampleand not just with words; those who partake ofcompassion in a effective way through their example,their actions, their thoughts.

Inhabiting a multidimensional universe is not theprivilege of anyone, it is a common reality, but beingaware of how different levels interact, it is the privilege ofa few. Many ancient cultures shared in due course agreat awakening of group consciousness and came tosimilar ports. Far beyond the peculiar forms of theircultures, there was a common substrate, a powerful rootthat made possible to understand, through a deepformulation of the energies that compartmentalized thedifferent dimensions, the way they all interacted in ourplane of existence.Many of these cultures were completely lost in the

mists of time, but others are experiencing a rebirth inour days, as a natural spring that welcomes the mostsensitive and restless souls, in this age of the fiercestmaterialism we live in. Unsatisfied with simple doctrines,starving for something more consistent than mere moralrules, or the false promise of a more advantageousafterlife, many old souls seem to be reborn in anapparently contradictory context, to speak aboutancient knowledge, ancient sacred practices, a way ofapproaching the Universe and the fact of life that,coincidentally, today is explained by very differentmeans and completely unrelated to those times.Science and spirituality are inevitably into a newtranscendent dimension, where the shaman and thescientist live side by side squaring the circle; where thedoctor, the priest, the psychologist and thethaumaturge, theyre all speaking the same language. Itis not easy, because the answers are not simple, eachone opens new questions, but far from a univocal,fanatical and intolerant description of the world, thesages of the future are already here preparing thecoming times.The great wheel has rotated once more; the old and

the new meet ... Perseverance brings good fortune...Change brings good fortune... However, nothing will nothappen without our conscious effort; if there is notransgression, no consciousness, no evolution, thefuture, left to itself, only repeats the past. Great days await the planetary consciousness, but

they will not come without causing death rattles,because in order for something new can be born,something old must die. The most sensitive perceive thisbirth in their own flesh; they prepare to prepare ... the oldand the new meet up again.He who has eyes to see... will see... he who has ears

to hear ... will hear.

"In Sufi terms, there are two very interesting concepts oftranscendence. The first is about contemplating the

universe and understanding that what you see out therereflects who you are. The other one is to look within

yourself and recognize that the universe is present there."Mohsin Hamid

"Most men and women lead so distressing lives in theworst case, and so monotonous, poor and limited atbest, that the rush to escape, the longing to transcendoneself, if only for brief moments, is and has alwaysbeen one of the main desires of the soul. " Aldous Huxley

T

3Alfredo Tucci is Managing Director toBUDO INTERNATIONAL PUBLISHING CO.e-mail: budo@budointernational.com

https://www.facebook.com/alfredo.tucci.5

Filipino Martial Arts

Escrima

Great masters are so notonly by virtue of their knowled-ge, but also because of theircareer, and in my humble opi-nion, of course, their personalityand special character.Rene Latosa is one of these, and

he justly comes back to our cover,many years after that first mee-ting, because he meets all thesequalities.A joyful reunion I might add,

because so it was. Short butfruitful and enough in itself tounderstand how everythingone had sketched years ago,on that first occasion, wasthere, matured, firm andgentle at the same time.

Filipino Martial Arts

The reason for the trip: A new videothat will be shortly released. One mor-ning of impeccable work, a fluid andpleasant recording of a video thatsurely will delight all lovers ofPhilippine Arts.The Latosa Escrima, a style that a

friend Master of Wing Tsun definedwith praise as "anti spectacular",where efficiency is rampant, making adifference.We have the invaluable assistance of

his pupil, Sifu Markus Goettel, whomwe thank for his kindness and help.The reunion with the great Master

Ren Latosa was very nice; we recalledthe many past years and, with greatcourtesy, he avoided speaking ill ofmutual acquaintances. Time passes foreveryone and, inevitably, we all tend toaccumulate a glossary of grievances,disappointments and bad experiencesthat would be sufficient to fill a com-plete Bible. The way you live all this,you act and you talk or not about itdefines your character. I am happyand honored to have his monthlycontribution to these pages and I'msure that many readers will appre-ciate it too.

Alfredo Tucci

Escrima

Filipino Martial Arts

With an edgedweapon there is no

take backs,repetition or theluxury to do itagain, until it

works.

The reality ofgoing up againstan edged weaponis not only atechnique or adrill. There is

also theemotions to dealwith such as

intent, fear andlogic.

eality: This is the understanding of exactly what couldhappen and the dangers when using or going against anedged weapon. With an edged weapon there is no takebacks, repetition or the luxury to do it again, until itworks. The attack could be a single cut, multiple cuts or

stab, and not in any particular predictable order. Imagine, one singlehit or slice could cause superficial wounds, severe injuries, or afatality whether you are in the offense or the defense mode.Understand what your trainer tells you to do, however you mustunderstand that they can only tell you what they know what might bea possible scenario, not what would really happen. Unless you cansee into the future, no one actually knows.

Many times in training reality is just a thought process, andsomething which is never going to happen to you. The reality ofgoing up against an edged weapon is not only a technique or a drill.

The main emphasis of training with an edgedweapon is knowing and understanding all thedangers associated with this type of weapon. Allthe What if's, and Yeah buts, are all greatfor trial and error, and assuming predictability.The serious danger of edge weapons is real, andshould be treated as such. This means where youshould establish your training priority to be asurvival tool, in the event this situation happensto you. Let's face it, you are the one having tosurvive, not your trainer, helps you train yourgoals, not your objective. The training priorities Iuse in Latosa-Escrima are as follows: reality,technique and drills.

Escrima

Elementary - Edge Weapons Training Priorities

R

Filipino Martial Arts

Escrima

Filipino Martial Arts

Most drills are usedto develop andenhance body

movement skills usedin the techniqueapplication.

There is also the emotions to deal withsuch as intent, fear and logic. Again,there is no forgiveness for mistakes, suchas stepping the wrong way, misjudgingthe distance, trying to judge timing ormissing the attack. Techniques: These movements are

trying to give you a generalization ofpossibilities, and probabilities of whatmay happen. Techniques have to beflexible, adaptable and have alternativesbecause there is no attack that wouldever be the same. There could be aminor change to the distance, timing orspeed, which can lead to devastation. Donot mistake techniques to be all, or theend all magical cure to an edged weapon!Everything you train for has to be asgeneral and flexible to deal with theunknown.

Drills: Most drills are used to developand enhance body movement skills usedin the technique application. Dri l lsprovides you the opportunity to developand to practice skill development of flowand eye hand coordination as well asmany other attributes. Try not to take theword drill so literally. The word drill inmy opinion is training and isolatingindividual skills. This is not fighting, it

Escrima

Drills provides you theopportunity to develop and topractice skill development offlow and eye hand coordination

as well as many otherattributes.

Filipino Martial Arts

Techniques haveto be flexible,adaptable and

have alternativesbecause there isno attack thatwould ever bethe same.

trains your abil it ies toexecute what you need todo in a real situation. Don'tget lost thinking this is thefight. I understand thatsometimes it is a difficult andexhausting drill, but get back tothe reality that you do not knowwhat is coming your way.

The emphasis of this EdgedWeapon Training is the properplacement and prioritization of howto develop yourselves for such asituation. The technique does notgive you the skills to deal with anedged weapon, only gives you scenarioof how it could work. Do not mistakedrills and techniques as the system,they are only tools to develop yourskills. Reality is having a partner attackyou, safely of course with attacks fromvery close to far away, different speeds andpower, from the side and from the unseenareas that are not in your peripheral vision.Obviously there are other, more advanceconcepts and training methods, but f irstunderstand the basic thought process andwhere the techniques and drills are placed inyour priority list.

The emphasis of this EdgedWeapon Training is the properplacement and prioritization ofhow to develop yourselves for

such a situation.

Everything you trainfor has to be as

general and flexibleto deal with the

unknown.

Escrima

The technique doesnot give you the skillsto deal with an edgedweapon, only gives

you scenario of how itcould work.

DVD & Video

All DVDs, wichi is produced by BudoInternational, si provided and alone in theformats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or thelike is however neves offered with a specialholograma sticker. Besides our DVD ischaracteristed coverings by the hig quality inpressure and material. If this DVD and/or theDVD covering do not corespond to therequirements specified above, it concerns illegalpirat copy.

REF.: FUSHIH-2REF.: FUSHIH-2

This new work on Fu-Shih Kenpo by Soke RaulGutierrez is centered on the traditional forms ofthe style, their applications and self defence. Wewill have a deeper insight into the form "The TigerDefends Himself", with each of the correspondingtechnical applications, the form "Tiger Teeth",

and a special work on weapons. Then theMaster will explain in detail the

extense series of advancetechniques on self defence,indicating the whys of certainmovements, the necesaryprecautions to take intoaccount, possible anglesand the variations thatcould be applied ineach technical group.The DVD completesitself with a series ofcombat techniquesfor competition andconditioning work.where MasterGutierrez explainshow to prepareoneself physicallywith the use ofweapons, arms and legconditioning, selfdefence preparation and

for combat. Without anydoubt this work is rich in

knowledge based on theexchange and coordination of

different styles and how to learnto respect the differences from each

source of works.

Budo international.comORDERS:

Captain LEVINET IN RUSSIATHE SPETSNAZ TRAINING

Photos: Edith LEVINET

Professional Self Defense

After his international experience, fairly meaningful in itself, with different law enforcementunits and federations in the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, Israel, Hungary, Austria, Spain,Italy and Argentina, the international expert Captain Jacques Levinet speaks to us about theROS (Real Operational System) Police Training method, of which he is founder 10th Dan blackbelt, for Russian special forces (Spetsnaz) of theOMOH and the Bureau of Narcotics.

We wanted to know his impressionsafter this exceptional movement.

Budo international: How did the famousSpetsnaz get to know about yourmethods?

Jacques Levinet: I was invited by thehighest authorities of the Russian Republic ofYakutia (Siberia) at the request of TselestinTSYKHTSINSKI, the Russian expertworldwide known in the environment ofMartial Arts and combat techniques. Prior tothat, he, who is constantly traveling the worldin search of new talents, had contacted me ata recent seminar I had given in London(England). He had been seduced by the ROSand wanted to make it known to the specialunits in his Republic.

B.I.: Which are these units and how didthey react to the SPK and the ROS?

JL: They are central intervention units ofthe OMON (Otryad Mobilny OsobogoNaznacheniya, Special Purpose Mobile Unit)and the Russian Federal Drug ControlAgency, and the strength of these forces isnot a legend, same as the extreme

continental climate of Yakutia with -60 C inwinter and + 40 in summer. Some strapping anddetermined young fellows awaited me, withcertain doubts and rudimentary trainingconditions. That is, to work in a real situation, andthat is what I appreciate most. I had no room forerror or uncertainty, which is why the answerswere supported on and adapted to theenvironment.

B.I.: Can you tell us more about thoseRussian units?

J.L.: They are very discreet and inaccessibleunless you are recommended by someone at ahigh level. Training sessions are held inundisclosed locations and under the watchful eyeof officers and team leaders. The OMOH,accustomed to crisis situations, as in Chechnya,are true fighters who are not afraid of almostanything and are famil iar with high-riskinterventions. The Bureau of Narcotics is equallyeffective in the fight against drug trafficking and itsagents perform large-scale interventions fordismantling organized networks. Bulletproof vestsand camouflage wear are the Bread & Butter ofthese troops. The ROS captivated them by therealism of its method which considers the differentlevels of confrontation, ranging from empty handfighting techniques to the use of fire guns, as wellas tonfa, operational baton and handcuffing,always according to the complementarity and

Informacin sobre cursos yformaciones

POLICE TRAINING ROS www.policetrainingros.comy www.academielevinet.comTel. +33467075044

permanent interaction of ROS and thedangerousness of the circumstances.

B.I.: Did you apply a specific ROSprogram?

J.L.: Yes, of course! The ROS hasthe peculiarity to adapt to the differentlaws of the countries involved in thefield training. The type of self-defenseand the equipment are not the sameeverywhere, for example thedisarmament procedure against the

Russian pistol that has its ownparticular characteristics. Thetraineeship program was organizedaround scenarios that I decided, asdanger and the reactions of theaggressor or aggressors increased.The ROS is not a self-defense systemof one against one, or school learnttechnical intervention gestures, butthe possibility for police forces toalways be a step ahead and haveresources available in front of a

situation that degenerates. Inaddition, Russians are not passivepeople and it was necessary to go tothe end of the intervention techniqueswith percussion, in order to test theireffectiveness. But once they areconvinced, they show no problem,respect your knowledge and ask formore.

B.I.: What experience have yougained from this trip?

J.L.: The satisfaction of having beenable to pass the ROS test at full scale,as these units never do anythinghalfway and spare no efforts. Theconstant questioning is a must if wewant to progress in all humility. Theconfrontation abroad avoids self-complacency and the national "navel-gazing". The enthusiasm of the Russianforces matched the height of therewards I received: the medal of the200th anniversary of the creation of the

militia in Russia and of the Ministry ofSports of Yakutia, as well as theSpetsnaz badges. Moreover, I had theprivilege of being invited by theAcademy of Police officers and having aprofuse interchange with instructors andresponsible officers, which has enrichedmy experience. Finally, a continuingSpetsnaz training project is planned.

In the light of the upcoming trips ofCaptain Jacques Levinet to the Police

Academy in New York, Germany, Italy,Austria, Bulgaria, England andDenmark, our polyglot French experthas no other option than learningRussian.

Information on courses andtraining

POLICE TRAINING ROSwww.policetrainingros.comand www.academielevinet.comTel. +33467075044

Interview

Today we have the pleasureto offer you the interview weconducted in due course with

one of the most relevantfigures in Jiu-Jitsu and

Martial Arts worldwide:Grand Master Francisco

Mansur.Master Mansur is an

expert in the art known asBrazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a

discipline that, as ourreaders know only too well,

brought about the last majorturn in the Martial Arts

world in modern times.

Interview: Alfredo TucciPhotos: www.budointernational.com

Great Masters

Among the few Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu9th Dan holders (scarcely five orsix) that are recognized around theworld, only two remain active:Francisco Mansur is one of them.

Our guest on this month's cover iscertainly a very special person, aremarkable character. Greatprofessor and outstanding Master,he is also a living testimony of whythis art has achieved such successin recent decades.

Rumor has it that Mansur was theonly one to whom Hlio Gracie, hisMaster, would have listened; mostprobably because Mansur was the

only one who dared to contradicthim, and although Hlio, a truecharacter as we all know, got reallyupset, he respected him because heknew that Mansur always told thetruth. A close relationship full of upand downs, but when Mansurquoted him during this interview, inhis eyes suddenly appeared theremains of an exquisite tendernessand affection, feel ings that gobeyond friendship.

Mansur - you wil l also f ind itwritten as Mansor, which is hisofficial name; Mansur is the resultof an error of the civil registry

Interview

Great Masters

official when registering his birth record -,Francisco (Francis, Xico in Brazilian)Mansur, we were saying, served 35years with the Rio de Janeiro PoliceDepartment, a remarkable recordof which he took away thesouvenir of 11 shots he receivedin his body. Nevertheless, he isin top shape if we consider thathe is not that young... Hisreputation as an incorruptiblecop could have cost him his lifein several occasions and, in thatrespect, he is especially gratefulto Jiu-Jitsu that forged hischaracter.

A righteous man above all, aswell as a peaceful warrior,Master Mansur is a religiousand neat person, t idy in hismeals, who lives today in NewYork, although he doesn't stoptravelling the world

Interview

to teach his systematization of the "gentle art", that he has named "Kyoto JiuJitsu". Master of masters and champions, but also a patient teacher of peoplewith physical, mental or emotional limitations, this man felt the compassion andacted accordingly. He's had in his hands the whole Gracie's generation thatrevolutionized the Martial Arts world in recent decades. He is the "eternal uncle",always focused and conciliatory beyond disputes, happenings or changes, a keyfigure to understand the evolution of Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil and currently in the US.

An example of Mastery in and out of the tatami, MasterMansur has been everything in the Jiu-Jitsu world, and he is

still willing to share with you his deep knowledge in thedidactic methodology that has granted him

international fame. A firm but affectionatecharacter, in love with his wife with whom

he shares an intense and rich living, hewalks along the path of existence

leaving behind him a trail of respectand admiration, but above all,

the deep and bright stele ofthe humanity of a man that

one day committed himselfwith the straight Way ofthe Warrior and stoodfirm in his purpose. Areal luxury in these

pages that we arehonored to present

today.

Great Masters

Interview

Grand Master, 9th DanWe interviewed the living legend of Jiu-Jitsu!

Interview with Grand Master Francisco Mansur, 9thDan of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Budo International: Master Mansur, we should like you to tell ussomething about the beginning of Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil, something fewpeople have lived as directly as you, and undoubtedly the epic ageof Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu...Francisco Mansur: The beginning of Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil has a name,

it's called Helio Gracie. It was he who started it all, of course, withoutbelittling Carlos Gracie, who began teaching Jiu-Jitsu while being still

a child. The development of Jiu-Jitsu remained in the hands ofHelio Gracie, because Carlos taught the old Japanese Jiu-

Jitsu he had learned from Mitsuyo Maeda, aka Count

Great Masters

Koma, the Master who went to Brazil representing Japans Budo. But Hlio Gracie, as he himself used to say, puta "little monkey" in the Jiu-Jitsu, because, being a sickly child, he couldnt do the same physical efforts as his bro-thers and so he created what is now known as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

You could even say that the beginnings were easy, because the difference between Hlio Gracies Jiu-Jitsu andother types of Jiu-Jitsu that existed at that time was big. Everything was based on the deep knowledge Hlio had;the others were strong men who practiced the sport, but they didnt have the back-ground he had and, in fairness, also had the other Gracie brothers; but in thoseyears, everything revolved around the family and especially Hlio, who had to faceall the champions that were constantly emerging.

The story is well known: Hlio Gracie fought Kato, then he faced anotherJapanese fighter that came out challenging the Gracie family intheir academy, and later he beat Kimura, which represented thesummit for Hlio, not only because the former was a world cham-pion, but also by the difference in weight and size. Then, he defe-ated all those who had made world champions. It should be stoodout a fighter named Taigo, whom they called "Taigo, the smilingfighter." That man should replace Kimu and avenge the defeat ofKato in the case Kimu lost against Hlio. The epic story of thosebattles is well known.

Great Masters

Rather than being a mere way of fighting, Jiu-Jitsu is a system of fights; it's an empirical

science that is constantly progressing as the other sciencesdo, and, as Physics, it has greatly developed.

These were the first steps of BrazilianJiu-Jitsu, the way it began to walk. Weall come from it. It is like a big tree ofwhich we are all branches. I am hono-red by that and I am very proud thatmy Jiu-Jitsu has that origin.

However, time has gone by and(just as aviation in its beginnings wasconstituted only by small airplanes oflow flight range and today we haveaircrafts that can encircle the globein an hour) the art of Jiu-Jitsu,being a science, is constantly evol-ving.

Rather than being a mere way offighting, Jiu-Jitsu is a system offights; it's an empirical science thatis constantly progressing as theother sciences do, and, as Physics,it has greatly developed. It could besaid that it has come the time inwhich Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has becomesomething like "an irrefutable reality."This revolution took place in Brazil, tur-ning this country into the capital of theJiu-Jitsu worldwide.

So today we can say that Jiu-Jitsu leans on two great pillars of the past,Hlio and his brother, the deans of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Jiu-Jitsu Masters ofthe past have been of great value for the development of the art. But notonly the Gracie's, there were many other talented fighters at the time andif we hadn't had that benchmark to fight, it had not existed the Jiu-Jitsuwe have today. In those days all of them were adversaries, opponents tofight against and, although in some cases they could be technically infe-rior, they were nonetheless indispensable opponents that stimulated ourabilities. This creative tension was so much developed that today Jiu-Jitsuis a true national heritage in Brazil and it can be claimed that in no lessthan 90% of the large Brazilian cities Jiu-Jitsu is widely practiced.

B.I.: Mr. Mansur, you were a policeman inRio de Janeiro, right?F.M.: Yes sir, for 35 years.

B.I.: Surviving all that time while dealingwith high-risk issues is, for us who knowthe place, a guarantee of warrior skills.However, this relationship between lawenforcement and martial artists is a fact nottoo well known in the world of Martial Artsand wed like that you talk to us about yourexperience and meeting points between thepractices of the ancient warriors and these"new warriors" that are the cops.F.M.: Good comment. It is simple to explain.

I've been a cop for 35 years, I've foughtagainst crime and, logically, I was in favor ofthe law, fulfilling it line upon line, but the truthis that in these Corps you can find people whoare authentic warriors; like you said, some-thing common among Jiu-Jitsu people, butalso among policemen. In fact, most cops inRio de Janeiro are practicing Jiu-Jitsu today,but in my days, only a few policemen did andwe formed a caste, something like a race apart.

Interestingly enough, many of those who practiced Jiu-Jitsu decided tobecome policemen later on. I can remember now a lot of good cops,examples of what I've just mentioned, who being first students of Jiu-Jitsu, entered the Unit and became excellent police officers. Thats cer-tainly the case of Hlio Bispo, a great chief of police; Barrais, now decea-sed ... a first-rate cop ... and I don't want to give more names to avoidbeing unfair. But there were many others who after being instructors andJiu-Jitsu professionals, and even Vale-Tudo fighters or advanced Jiu-Jitsuteachers and academy owners, became policemen, as it was my case,since I already was an instructor of Jiu Jitsu when I joined the PoliceCorps.

Great Masters

B.I.: This mental preparation is somethingnot too valued at a time when technologyseems to be, or pretends to be everything...don't you think that today we tend to focusmore in this technical part, forgetting some-what the true values that Martial Arts like Jiu-Jitsu have behind?F.M.: Alfredo, even if we forgot the values ??of

Martial Arts, it is impossible that a good martialartist, a good fighter, a man who devotes entirelyto it - and daily makes a great effort investingblood, sweat and tears in it - is not actually livingall the values ??that lie behind Martial Arts andbenefiting from them. So even if the person is,so to speak, just a fighting man, he can't avoidthe effects that the practice brings to his sub-conscious. The subconscious is involuntary,something that works out of our command. In

the practice of the fight we learn to stay calmand keep others calm at critical moments. Thishappens not at the mercy of a particular philo-sophy, but because one is imbued with it.

B.I.: You are a religious man, how do youharmonize Jiu-Jitsu and religion?F.M.: I usually repeat some phrases that can

bring light on the subject we're talking about. Ilike to say that God is very capricious. One dayHe stopped to think: "How awful! The world isgrowing every day, soon there will be no candlesor lamps, and everything will be dark", thenHe called Edison and said: "Edison, invent thelight for the world...", and Edison invented theelectric light. He did the same with Graham Bell:"Hey, Graham, come here, I'm going away and Iwant to keep in touch...", and Bell invented the

Great Masters

Interview

telephone. "Hey Pasteur, a plague isabout to emerge that will destroy man-kind!", and Pasteur invented the vacci-ne... Then one day he turned into a man,we don't know exactly who he was...and he created the Jiu-Jitsu... Once itwas created, the old Jiu-Jitsu was deve-loped throughout the world and Godaddressed a sick man named Hlio andsaid, "Hey, come with me, you're verysick, you've been told that you will die,but I don't want you to die ... I'll makeyou the creator of a new style of Jiu-Jitsu...", and Hlio created Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

These are all divine things, are thingsthat God puts in man's mind. Man hasnot the power to create such wonderfulthings, to create a fight as Jiu-Jitsu,which is something that has no end... ithas a beginning but not an end ... is amathematical progression, it can only beexplained by divine intervention. So notonly Jiu-Jitsu, but Martial Arts as awhole are properly imbued with self-confidence, which is transmitted tohumans. Self-confidence so that mancan be a warrior and follow a straightpath: the Way of the Warrior, an honora-ble way. That road is called Bushido; thisis the "Way of the Warrior". That's what Ithink with regard to Jiu-Jitsu and theeffect it can have on humans.

B.I.: One of the most notableaspects of your work is the creation ofa special methodology in teachingJiu-Jitsu. Please, tell us about thebirth of the basis for your personalway of looking at the gentle art...F.M.: Well, 40 years ago I thought that

Jiu-Jitsu should be not only a right ofadult men; children could also benefitfrom its practice, because the effect ofthe Jiu-Jitsu movements provides agreat deal of knowledge, encouragesdevelopment and affects children in apositive way, mainly with respect tocoordination. Then I started to create a

new program, a new way of teachingand learning Jiu-Jitsu: the Kyoto Jiu-Jitsu. The truth is that I didn't need toinvent anything; I just simplified thingsand developed an easy way to apply Jiu-Jitsu. My students were in many casespeople with disabilities, one-armed,deaf, dumb, etc.

I wanted to offer an access to a espe-cial Jiu-Jitsu to all those children withextraordinary difficulties in coordination,or who felt special for having been in a"special" school, or were facing greaterlimitations, something which, at thattime, was not too clear yet whether theywere surface motor coordination pro-blems or deep motor coordination pro-blems... I wanted to go beyond the defi-nitions to undertake practical and effec-tive actions, so I created the Jiu-JitsuSystem, with the intention that all thosepersons could bear the difficulties of life.People who ultimately are in the bottomof a well and you can, through Jiu-Jitsu,bring them up to the surface...

This was very rewarding. It's some-thing I feel proud about because I havehelped many people, who came to theacademy full of medical and psycholo-gical problems and today are carryingand living a normal life; some of themhave even become great professionalsof liberal professions. Everything isbased on education; in psychologicaleducation, but also in the education ofthe intelligence, as well as psychomotoreducation and disciplinary education.And this is definitely something that tea-ches the art itself. I am not the author ofthat work! This work comes from the Artitself that allows you to show the childhow to move in a relatively perfect coor-dination.

B.I.: Today, you have your academyin New York. What was the reason tochange your life and seek new waysbringing Jiu-Jitsu, your Jiu-Jitsu, tothe American East Coast?

Great Masters

Interview

I wanted to go beyond the definitions to undertakepractical and effective actions, so I created the Jiu-JitsuSystem, with the intention that all those persons could

bear the difficulties of life.

F.M.: That's a long story! But I'lltell you as fast as I can.

I have devoted my life to Jiu-Jitsuand my police work. As cop in a citythat faces daily delinquency andcrime, there came a time when I wasrunning a great risk, something that Icouldnt take any longer, because inaddition it was extending to myfamily by the conditions of thecountry.

As the moment of retirementapproached it became increasinglyclear to me that I would be left in avery fragile defensive situation, bothin my personal case, and, especially,in that of my family. This was cer-tainly due to my attitude towardorganized crime, which is powerfulin Rio de Janeiro. In the guild I wasknown as a "tough cop" (referring toincorruptible); I had arrested and putin jail many colleagues who had suc-cumbed to temptation, and many,many drug dealers and criminals.

Of course, I was not an isolatedcase, it was the same with all thosepolice officers who had been harshin suppressing crime and delin-quency; anyway I was almost forcedto take my family from one day tothe next and leave Brazil to settle inthe United States, where I had a lotof pals, including my good friendColonel Sanchis, with whom I sha-red classes at the Police Academy inNew York, a man I much appreciateand admire and is well known to thereaders of this magazine .

So I settled there and opened myfirst school, following the same gui-delines I had earlier followed, that is,considering the educational andcorrective aspects and everythingelse. In New York I carried out allthese types of work with childrenaffected by motor coordination pro-blems, with people in need of self-assertion, or simply people who hadstrayed into the wrong path. What I

call a wrong path is the path ofdrugs, a path of vice, in general.With Jiu-Jitsu and a good job of dis-cipline and good vibrations, you canhelp these people to find the rightpath. And this is my reality.

B.I.: A question, that arisesalmost obligatorily and I'd like toask you is: who are, in your opi-nion, the best fighters that arenow in the Jiu-Jitsu world stage?F.M.: That's a dange-

rous question! (laughs). Irisk my neck! AnywayCurrently I admire the wayRoger Gracie fights. Andof course, I like Jacare,which has a tremendousdrive in Jiu-Jitsu and is areal warrior as hedemonstrated this yearwinning the WorldChampionships. AndMargarida, who has reap-peared and is progressingwell; I thought he wouldfall again, but no! He hasreturned in the bestshape.

But I can't refrain frommentioning those who, forme, are still the names ofJiu-Jitsu par excellence;perhaps because at thetime they developed Jiu-Jitsu were in a great dis-parity with what it was thegeneral rule. Among themwe should note, of course,great warriors like Royler.For me, within the wholefamily, Royler is the onewho has more warriorblood in his veins. He hasfought and competedmore than anyone, a manwho didn't need to proveanything to anyone, butcompeted.

Of course, Rickson, of whom there-'s no need to talk. There are also peo-ple I like very much, like Carlos Gurgel,"The General"... yeah, they call him"The General"... Did you know that? Itis an individual of great values.

Without underestimating theothers, these are for me those whodefined a period. Mainly, Ricksonmarked an epoch and so did Royler;now Jacare, as well as Roger andalso Margarida and many other ligh-

Great Masters

I have devoted mylife to Jiu-Jitsu and

my police work. As cop in a city that

faces dailydelinquency and

crime, there came atime when I was

running a great risk,something that

I couldnt take anylonger, because in

addition it wasextending to my

family by theconditions of the

country.

ter or heavier, have marked or aremarking a new era in Jiu-Jitsu.

This is what I think of the names oftoday's Jiu-Jitsu. But there havebeen great champions and I do notwant to be unfair, if I mention theseis because Jacare was champion ofthe Absolute in the WorldChampionships and Royler was run-ner amid a controversy over the bro-ken arm or not ... For me, the two ofthem have a great value, both are

great fighters. Even Rickson is oneof the best I can mention, withoutforgetting the old ones.

B.I.: What about the old ones?FM: I've mentioned Rickson,

Fabio Gurgel "The General"... andmy Master, who was the most per-fect at the time we didn't know any-thing, nothing at all!

All this is what I value from thepast and also from the present.

BI: Master Mansur, it has been areal privilege interviewing you andfinally record a first instructionalvideo of what we hope will be aseries. Thank you.

FM: Thanks to you, it's beenlovely working with such a pro-fessional team but especiallydoing it in this special atmosphe-re you create, in which one isalways happy to give the best ofoneself.

Interview

With Jiu-Jitsu and a goodjob of discipline and goodvibrations, you can helpthese people to find the

right path.

Major Avi Nardia is one of the leading head officialinstructors for the Israelite army and police in anti

terrorism and CQB, he along with BenKrajmalnik have made a new basic

dvd in the field of firearms andsafety, training techniques in

IPSC. Instinctive Shooting inCombat. Combat Instinctive

Point Shooting - IPSC is ashooting method basedon instinctive reactionsand kinematics to shootshort distances fast andin dynamic situations. Aself defense disciplinein order to survive in lifet h r e a t e n i n gsituatuations , where

you need a very fast andaccurate shooting

abilities, when you musttake the gun out as soon as

possible and shoot at a shortdistance without using the sight.

In this first volume you will studyhow to handle the weapon ( revolver

and semi -automatic ) dry firing practice andsecurity, "Point Shooting" or instinctive shooting , at aclose range and a series of movements and exercisesfor weapon retention , low stress and multiple attackers ;exercises on how to recharge with one hand, ... andfinally practice shooting gallery with guns such as AK- 74, M -4 , M -249 machine gun and even M -16grenade launchers .

REF.: KAPAP7REF.: KAPAP7

All DVDs, wichi is produced by BudoInternational, si provided and alone in theformats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivXor the like is however neves offered with aspecial holograma sticker. Besides ourDVD is characteristed coverings by the higquality in pressure and material. If thisDVD and/or the DVD covering do notcorespond to the requirements specifiedabove, it concerns illegal pirat copy.

Budo international. netORDERS:

Master Dennis Vega, already known to our most devoted readersthrough a DVD recorded a few years ago, has followed ever since anintense path directed in two strong lines: Farang Combat andFarangdo Mu Sul.With Farang Combat (with which this new column begins), he has

achieved outstanding success coaching Free Fight circuitsfighters; with the second line, Farangdo Mu Sul, he follows aline of work more linked to the Korean origins of his style,never losing sight of his passion for effectiveness in combat.Each month you will find in him inspiration, knowledge

and interesting proposals that for sure will enrich yourwork.

Alfredo Tucci

Among surprise attacks, dynamic movements and effective combinations, we discover theFarang Combat.

When we speak about Farang Combat, three essential questions come spontaneously tomind: What is Farang Combat? What is its history? And where did it arise?

Farang Combat is a form of Modern Farang Mu Sul (defensive martial style, founded by GrandMaster Michael De Alba) in which, the defensive and offensive techniques arise from the fightitself, the defensive chaos. The Farang Combat style, constituted an association and endorsedby the prestigious aforementioned federation, comprises two major divisions in its organizationalstructure: FCD (Farang Combat Defensive) and FCL (Farang Combat League).

In its defensive and sports technical line (Farang Combat League), it relies on Boxing methodsas the action principle. It also uses linear attacks, Greco-Roman wrestling, Chinese wrestling,Farang Jok Sul (kicking technique) and its most important technical features: Catch Boxing andStamp Hit.

Master Dennis Vega, with a career of more than three decades of martial practice and sportsactivity, is the one who instituted the concept called "Catch Boxing". Within Farang Combat, theCatch Boxing mode plays an important role. Using 45 degree movements within their boxingcombinations, it successfully establishes grasping and manipulations in a quick and skillful way,which are effectively used for taking down and controlling the opponent. In exploring the CatchBoxing technique, we can clearly see its value within the chaos of the struggle. Withoutstopping, and with circular movements and linear, the Catch Boxing lets you maneuver yourbody and limbs to project and control your opponent. Combat Farang practitioners develop

Combat Arts

Combat Arts

Combat Arts

Catch Boxing using and applying its technique in fastcombinations of punches instead of single movement

techniques. Thus, we can see its effectiveness within the usualdisarray of an actual fight.

In its taxonomy of attacks, Farang Combat uses differenttechniques, such as elbows strikes to the chest, punchesto the thigh, head butts and open hand impacts. Itoperates with four patterns of jabs and eight essentialbasic combinations to establish a highly effectiveoffensive and defensive action. Catch Boxing uses fourcontrol inflections described as "Triangle Cut" and"Four Wrap". Triangle Cut represents the defenseaction resisting attacks in the left and right flanks,while Four Wrap is the offensive action used inmovements of 45 degrees.

When we are rammed by a left or right flankattack, the Combat Farang practitioner uses as themain defense the so called Triangle Block; as its

very name indicates, it's a triangular format blockwhich protects the back and sides of the head,

presenting the elbow forward as arrow. Afterestablishing the Triangle Block, Farang Combat

practitioners pass to use the Triangle Cut as a controlmeasure, making inflections, shifting or throws. In the Four Wrap

defensive mode, Farang fighters use the defensive techniques known asshoulder move and squat move. Using such defensive concepts, the practitioner,

in the confusion of the fight, raises his arm in an "L" thus grasping the oppressor'sarm and applying the desired technique.

Farang Combat began to take its first steps on the island of Puerto Rico in 2004, fromthe hands of Master Dennis Vega, who developed the method for the sake of the Farang Mu Sul

style and its founder, master and mentor, Grand Master Michael De Alba. For fifteen years, Master Dennis Vegahas trained judges, sheriffs, police staff, bodyguards, correction officers and bouncers, to name a few. Likewise,he has coached professional and amateur fighters in the modalities of Mix Martial Arts, Muay Thai and Kickboxing,reaching several championship belts as well as international and government prizes.

In its defensive and sportstechnical line (Farang CombatLeague), it relies on Boxing

methods as the action principle.It also uses linear attacks, Greco-Roman wrestling,

Chinese wrestling, Farang JokSul (kicking technique) and its

most important technicalfeatures: Catch Boxing and

Stamp Hit.

Currently, the education systems used intraining the Armed Forces members andSecurity personnel worldwide, rely on puttingthe trainees in touch with scenarios andsituations where stress, instruction andtargets are closely linked to the reality.In addition, the methodology applied to

teaching should be based on clear,practical and effective conceptsthat facilitate the assimilationthereof, understanding themas a second nature and notjust as mere technicalresources. Finally, in orderto optimize the time, it'sessential planning thecurricula in different areas inwhich Security professionals orArmed Forces members shouldbe formed.

World Experts

Self Defense

What is themilitary goal?Fighting andwinning.

And I do meanwinning.

Olivier Pierfedericisogclosecombat@yahoo.fr

www.budointernational.comPhotos:

e-mail: Text:

Basing the analysis on these guidelines and concepts applied toinstruction, I can affirm that after having had the opportunity(courtesy of Mr. Olivier Pierfederici) to learn the techniques,concepts and strategic elements used in his system (SOG),together with the bright didactic functionality of its creator, I amconvinced that this is one of the most practical, comprehensive andeffective systems, not only for the instruction of professionals fromdifferent areas related to security and defense, but also for civilianswho are willing to form their character and attitude in front ofextreme situations as well as develop abilities to defend their life, ifit is threatened.

Introduction of Mr. Walter William Tabares (Sergeant-Instructor of the Argentina Federal Police; field instructor andinstructor of weapons and shooting, assigned to the"Comisario General Alberto Villar" Police Training Institute;member of the Foreign Dignitary Protection Units; advisor ofUnarmed Combat for the Tactics and Anti-Riot Units, and LutaLivre instructor at the Budokan School.

Dear readers, it's a pleasure for me to meet you once again andpresent to all of you my new DVD entitled "SOG MILITARY FORCIVILIANS". "Military", because in the SOG system, we believe thatthe parallels between civilian and military fighters are increasingly

Self Defense

"The shortest waybetween point

A and point B is...a straight line. In other words,when it comes tourban survival,

the shortest pathis almost always

the best.

justified today, and it must be added thepsychology they apply to their training; allthis, well adapted to civilian life, integratesvaluable basics. But let us examine it indetail...

Why training likea military man?First of al l we should observe the

environment in which we live, soak up whatis around us and think that we live in an"urban jungle". The time of ourgrandparents has changed a lot and nowliving in Rio de Janeiro, Paris or London ispractically the same, saving minordifferences. To the problems of insecurityexperienced in November 2005 in a countryas "civilized" as France, there must beadded those caused by terrorism (London,Madrid, New York, Iraq, Indonesia, etc.).The fact that an ordinary citizen is not

prepared to face such dangers isabsolutely normal and today's society,increasingly weak and permissive, doesn'tseem capable to solve anything ... In fact,what would it happen if they took awayfrom us our little vacation period on thebeach or in the snow, our air-conditionedcars, our fashionable clothes and all thecomforts and conveniences we enjoytoday?If we extrapolate it to the struggle for the

very survival, it would be illusory andextremely dangerous to think that a personlitt le or poorly prepared (mentally,physically and technically) could survive toany attack by a predator "x". However, thisis what most of the so called "Self

"Always feelsuperior

to the enemy,whatever his

size"

World Experts

Self Defense

Defense" schools in the world do to whatwe call "walking dead" in my system.Ask yourself: What is the military goal?

Fighting and winning. And I do meanwinning, because once I heard from aprofessional a phrase that made me smile:"The important thing is not so much to win;rather it comes to not lose." Really I didn'tknow very well what this man meant, butthanks to my experience in the securitysector, I can say that in this field, the graycolor just DOESN'T exist. One of the sixS.O.G. rules is: "Always feel superior to theenemy, whatever his size". By this I meanthat the psychological aspect is crucial incombat, something the mil itary haveunderstood perfectly.

How to train yourself to survive an assaultAbove all, and I'm sure you all have so

understood, it comes to preparing yourselfpsychologically, that's what we call the"mental click" in our system. Ensuring thatany ordinary citizen can quickly become an"Urban Warrior" (time factor is essential) isa challenge on which any PersonalDefense professional should seriouslyponder. And, of course, recurrent trainingis not enough, especially if it's poorlyfocused! In this sense, the experience isparamount, you cannot convey what youhaven't l ived and, although it seemsobvious, this is a too common mistake.But let's go back to the technical part. I

have deep respect for the British Army,whose members practice a shorter butmore intense instruction than most armiesin the world, and although their weapons

World Experts

It would be illusory andextremely dangerous tothink that a person little

or poorly prepared(mentally, physically and

technically) could survive toany attack by a predator x.

Recurrent training is notenough, especially if it's

poorly focused!

may not the ult imate on the market, it'snevertheless the best army in the world. Howcome? Although we could find racial andhistorical arguments to explain it, I think thepsychological approach in their training isessential. They are told, prepared andpersuaded that they are the best. The secretlies, therefore, in a proper groundwork. Such"mental" preparation is also a key element tocome out victorious in a street combat. Beingsure that you are going to win, having nodoubts, falling and rising again to keep onmoving forward, the victory of the "mental" overthe "material", are essential tr iumphs forapplying what we denominate the "L concept" inthe S.O.G., that is, one standing (us) and theother on the floor (the enemy).In my case, when I train my students, I use

terms l ike urban warfare, enemy (neveradversary), artillery for the leg work, etc. Withoutnoticing, the student changes his way ofthinking and seeing things. We also conductseminars on "psychological backing" (seepictures) so that trainees can learn to overcomecertain psychological barriers such as fear ofwater or height, claustrophobia, fear of notachieving the set goals, lack of self confidence,etc. In these seminars, the physical part playsalso a very important role, because we believethat without a proper physical shape, the fighterdoesn't exist and the mental is managed fromthe physical plane. An example: a student, whodoes 15 pushups in a normal time, in a seminarwill endeavor to reach 18 in the same time, thusmaking an effort to try to outstrip himself, whichwill give an undeniable advantage in an actualcombat. The key word is "self-overcoming",move forward or, as the motto of my oldregiment goes: "straight ahead". The SAS(British Special Forces) state: "Who dares,wins". Meditate on it!In this new DVD work you will find a complete

set of exercises under stress that will also helpyou strengthen the psychological part, and areessential to carry out a serious work.

What about the purely technical side?Unfortunately, under the term "Military Close

Combat", so fashionable today, we seeflourishing everyday new combat systems, thevast majority of which are not even remotelybased on military training. It should be addedthat most of the so-called experts that impartthese disciplines have not the faintest idea ofwhat is military instruction; moreover many of

Self Defense

The secret lies therefore in aproper groundwork.

Such "mental" preparation isalso a key element to comeout victorious in a street

combat.

Self Defense

them haven't even done nationalservice.At the risk of repeating myself, is very

dangerous lying to a student, for lying inthis area will take him directly to thehospital or, in the worst case, to thecemetery!

What are the basicsof a good Close-Combat system?

1. Easy to show.2. Easy to understand.3. Easy to reproduce.4. Easy to apply under stress.

Everything else is a lie and if it werenot, I'd like someone prove it to me.Based on this principle, my last DVD

integrates a complete program oftwenty techniques that make possiblewhatever the height of the twoprotagonists (defender and enemy), tofend off any real attack: standing, on theground, with or without weapons. Thechallenge was to find a concept, atechnical foundation that could help usboth in attack and defense, on the flooragainst weapons and with weapons.And this is not so easy, because manytimes the easy is the hardest. However,field experience is essential becauseyou can't improvise that you're anexpert in self defense if you are not, andtechniques are not learned in a book.Again, the inspiration comes from the

military experience. Real fighting is the

Real fighting isthe job of the

military and if wewant to win anactual fight,

we have to trainlike them.

Self Defense

job of the military and if we want to win an actual fight, wehave to train like them. It could be argued that the militaryhave "license to kill" and civilians don't, but what wouldyou do to save your life or that of a loved one, knowingthat you don't have 36 solutions? In this, as Machiavellisaid, "The end justifies the means."Let us return to practice. We have said that a practical

system of Close-Combat must be above all easy todemonstrate. So you have to practice mostly basicmovements, the number of techniques must be voluntarilylimited and selected. This will also help better understandand assimilate the techniques. In addition, under stress (akey word in combat), the individual must be able to easilyfind decisive answers to solve certain problems.In practice, it's enough to follow a program of about

twenty movements with a basic technique and just onevariant (not 50,000!). Remember: learning a huge amountof techniques won't make you better or higher, on thecontrary!Work out a basic technical background that

encompasses everything that could occur in a real streetconfrontation: attack, defense, cons and grips, ground,defense against knives and hand guns. Repeat itincessantly and once you've mastered the movements,start training under stress (I recommend you to visualizethe DVD). Get as close as possible to reality, but ofcourse, don't intend to be James Bond. Think also thatstreet fighting has evolved and the old "one to one" of ourfathers does no longer exist. Practice this and perhapsyou may have a chance to emerge unscathed!

Conclusion

Let me conclude with a reflection. Dear readers, think ofa basic concept of geometry: "The shortest way betweenpoint A and point B is... a straight line". In other words,when it comes to urban survival, the shortest path isalmost always the best.

Legionnaire's honor code : Article 5

As an elite soldier, you shall train vigorously, take careof your weapons as if they were your most preciouspossession, and maintain your body at its best physicalcondition.

World Experts

The key word is self-overcoming,

move forward or, as themotto of my old regimentgoes: straight ahead.

Great Masters

Trip to the cradle of Wing Chun

Interview with

My experiences in HONG KONG

Interview with Sifu Patrick Leung in Hong Kong

In our trip to Hong Kong we had many visits and interviews scheduledbut the first one was mandatory: Sifu Patrick Leung. When we startedsending invitations and requests to all the Martial Arts Schools, SifuPatrick was a person that proved to be gentle and friendly. He helped usa lot organizing this trip and I must admit that it was an authenticpleasure having met him and having the opportunity to assist hisclasses. It is my honor to do this interview at the headquarters of theVVTA Ving Tsun Athletic Association).

i fu Patrick Leung has an enviableMartial Arts curriculum. With over 35years training Wing Chun and a directdisciple of Grandmaster Yip Chun (theeldest son of the passed away YipMan). We were welcomed with a huge

smile at the entrance of the AVTA (Athletic VingTsun Association which was founded by theGrandmaster Yip Man). As I entered in the class Imust recognized I was emotionally struck. I dontthink there is anyone in the world of Wing Chunthat wouldnt feel certain excitement as they enterthe room which has trained the most illustriousmasters of Wing Chun. It is definite reference for allthe Wing Chun fans and practitioners worldwidethat visits Hong Kong. To all those that expect animmense training room forget it. The AVTAheadquarters in a small room where the only thingthat fits is Wing Chun. The Association emblem islocated underneath Grandmaster Yip Mans picturewhich is escorted by a beautiful statue ofGrandmaster Yip Man and a Wooden DummyThe rest? The only room left is for trainingpurposes. No luxury, simply space and ambienceof Wing Chun training. Patrick welcomes us alongside his lovely wife

Monica who serves as assistant and practicecompanion. Both are a lovely couple. They reflectgenerosity and good humor. It is, without a doubt,the first step in Hong Kong and the experiencecould not have been more enriching. I thank themfor receiving us and I want to let them know howgrateful I am for having the opportunity to be thereand knowing firsthand the opinion, ideas andmotivations of one of the titled professor of the

Athletic Ving Tsun Association.Two main things surprise me about Sifu Patrick

Leung:First of all, his classes are packed with students.

It is something really astonishing because the threetimes that I visited his class in Athletic Ving TsunAssociation at the Chinese University of HongKong his classes were full with practicing students.His character and personal charisma make himloved and respected by his students.Second of al l , the immense spectrum of

students. We can find veteran practitioners mixedwith children. There are also lots of women. Almost40% of those attending their classes are females. Apleasant and surprising data that is unusual inEurope.Salvador Snchez: Dear Teacher, THANK YOU

for receiving us. It is an honor being here.Sifu Patrick Leung: Welcome. It is also a pleasure

for me having received you.

SS. When did you start practicing Ving Tsun?SPL. - Well.. in 1969, I first studied Wing Chun in

Hong Kong under Sifu Lok Yiu, student of Yip Man.Since 1972 I studied Wing Chun directly fromGrandmaster Ip Chun who is the eldest son of thelate Grandmaster Yip Man. I have been teachingWing Chun since 1986 i.e.over 46 years continuouslearning and teaching Wing Chun in Hong Kong.

SS.- Do you professionally dedicate yourselfto the teachings of Wing Chun?SPL.- Yes, I am fully dedicated to Wing Chun.

Teaching Wing Chun is my profession and hobbythat occupied much of my time.

S

Besides, I am the national designated assessorand examiner in the yearly assessment of theapplicants for China Wushu Duan Wei. Practitionersof Wing Chun and other branches of martial arts,local and overseas assembled in Hong Kong yearlyfor assessment on their level of Wushu.Moreover, my students and I have been

demonstrated Wing Chun quite frequently in publicwith a view to promoting Wing Chun.At times, I attend various meetings in leading

major martial arts Associations in connection withorganising martial arts activities and contests inHong Kong, Mainland China and other countries,including activities of the World Contests.

SS.- But your classes are full of students Thatspeaks really good of you.SPL.- Well yes. It has beensaid that my classes are the ones that most studentshave and that flatters me. I have different groups indifferent places of Hong Kong and the relationsbetween my students are really good. Like a family.

SS.- I would like to ask you concerning thedifference within the Wing Chun schools. It seemsthere are some between the schools in Hong Kong,but most of all within the Wing Chun of Hong Kongand the Wing Chun of Europe or USA. How wouldyou explain the difference? Why do you think thesedifferences exist?SPL.- Actually I do not exactlyunderstand why. Wing Chun is a style with a clearorigin. Its form defines its style. Also someelements like the understanding of the idea ofattacks/defenses. But it seems clear, if anyonewants to earn Wing Chun they should come toHong Kong.

SS.- How would you define the training thatyou give in your school?SPL.- Well, thats easy. I am a direct disciple of

G.M. Yip Chun and my training system is verysimilar. For me, Siu Nin Tolo is very important. I amvery meticulous in the study of the first form.Afterwards we continue teaching and practicing therest of the forms but Siu Nin Tao is very importantand we pay a lot of attention to it. Now, myAssociation is dominated as Soft Wing ChunAssociation (HongKong). Its name indicated clearlymy form of training. Wing Chung is a styledeveloped by a woman. That softness must bepresent in the practice and training. That is thereason I insist in being very relaxed when youpractice Chi Sao.

SS.- There are many schools that focuses itspractice in wellbeing, others in self-defense,etcOn which aspect do you focus yourpractice of Soft Wing Chun Association and SifuPatrick Leung?SPL.- In all of them. Actually it is not possible to

do self-defense (or anything else) withoutwellbeing. That is why I always insist the WingChun is an excellent system for the rest of your life.Wing Chun is good for your health. If your health isgood you can practice, work, etc EVERYTHING!That is why it is important to maintain a balance inWing Chun practice. The health part is veryimportant. Many Wing Chun schools no longerwork in cultivating the Inner Energy (Chi). We do.We also seek the applications of defense/attack inself-defense. We also compete because I believe itis good in order to test the practitioners.

SS.- Really? There are Wing Chuncompetitions?SPL.- Yes! Actually a few months ago we had a

very important one and we are preparing others atthe moment. They are done with some Wing Chunrules that are acceptable by all the schools and areapproved. Some of them are very important. Wetend to use helmets and gloves that permit us graband it is put to the test through the Chi Sao freesparring.

SS.- In Europe it is not common this type ofevent. CompetitionsSPL.- We do it here and each time there are

more practitioners who ventures to try. Of course Ihave many students and each one search differentthings. Some self-defense, other wellbeing, otherscompetition and even some that wants to comeand practice for social purposes. They come andhave a good time training with their friends thisexcellent art.

SS.- I see that your wife also practicesSPL.- Yes! Monica is my wife but she is also my

student and assistant. She is very important for mein every aspect. She is very persistent in herpractice and it is really good that she accompanyme to all my classes. She has been certified for herexcellent work. She is very consistent and hertechnique is really good.

SS.- I see that they also do exercises relatedto the Inner Strength. Is this a form of trainingin your school or is it common within HongKongs Teachers?

SLP.- Inner Strength does exist in Wing Chun,however, the successful rate on generating innerstrength effectively is very low. Therefore, "Soft" inmy association name is a strong reminder of beingrelaxed.In my 30 years teaching, around thirty students

have achieved different levels of inner strength. Itrepresented a very low percentage. Training ofinner strength in Wing Chun of Hong Kong is nottoo common. I am not sure whether difficulties toachieve is the main reason.Comparing with inner strength, inch punch force

is much more easier to achieve. While remainingcalm and relaxed, it is not difficult to generate theexplosive force of Wing Chun at very closedistance.

SS.- Do you have other schools affiliatedoutside of Hong Kong?SPL.- Well, I have some people that have

studied with me that come from other countries.Each day more and more people come from othercountries away from China to learn Wing Chun. It isalways a pleasure to receive them and help themlearn Wing Chun. For me it is a joy.

SS.- I have no more questions, Sifu Patrick. Iappreciate all of your attention towards methese days. I can never thank you enough foryour hospitality and kindness. You have openedthe doors of the Ving Tsun Athletic Associationand accompany us on our visit to the Tomb ofGrandmaster Yip Man. It is a great honor for meand I hope to be able to visit you in many moreoccasions. Thank you also to Monica (his wife)

and all the group ofteachers andstudents. They aree x t r a o r d i n a r ypeople. From thebottom of my heart,THANK YOU!If anyone would

like to contact SifuPatrick Leung please contact withhim in the Website of hisassociation iswww.softwingchun.com orFacebook: Soft Wing ChunAcademy- Hong Kong

Profile of Wing Chun Sifu PatrickLeung Ting Kwok

Practicing ExperienceContinual practicing 17 years, since 1969 under Lok

Yiu, Yip Man student. From 1972 under Ip Chun, YipMan's elder son and under Lau Hon Lam, Yip Man'sstudent.

Teaching ExperienceContinual teaching since 1986 including Ving Tsun

Athletic Association (VTAAj(founded by Yip Man in1968), World Wing Chun Union (founded by Ip Chun in2009) Soft Wing Chun Academy (HK), universities,clubs, etc.

QualificationsNational Instructor & Examiner, Chinese Wushu Duan

SystemNational Certificate, 7th Duan on Chinese Wushu

Duan System Certificate, global representative of IpChun in teaching Wing Chun Qualified Senior Instructor 1994, 1st full day course

VTAAHead Judges, World/Hong Kong Wing Chun /Martial

Arts Open ContestsOfficial Judge, Open Martial Arts Contests, Hong

Kong Chinese Martial Arts Lion & Dragon Dance Asso.(HKMALDDA)

Global RecognitionVice Chairman, World Wing Chun Union & HK Wing

Chun UnionCo-editor, National Wushu Duan System, Text book &

AssessmentChairman & Principal Instructor, Soft Wing Chun

Academy (HKjVice-Chairman & Secretary, Ving Tsun Development

CouncilElected Executive Committee member, HKMALDDAAppointed Consultant, Hong Kong Wushu UnionDemonstrator on Wing Chun, Global Wushu

Encyclopedia (Publisher DK)Dedication to Wushu Cert, Prime Minister of MalaysiaDedication to Wushu Cert, Selangor GovernmentPresenter on Wing Chun, Radio Hong Kong, DAB 35,

GovernmentVisiting Lecturer on Wing Chun, City University Hong

Kong.

Great Masters

The DVD "Krav Maga Research and

Development" comes from the will of four

experts in Krav Maga and combat sports,

Christian Wilmouth and Faustino Hernandez,

Dan Zahdour and Jerome Lidoyne. To date, they

lead several clubs and a group of twenty

instructors and monitors from multiple

disciplines, from Krav Maga or

Boxing to the MMA, Mixed

Martial Arts. This work is not

intended to highlight a new

method or a specific

branch of Krav Maga, it

simply aims to present a

Krav Maga program that

focuses on the

importance of the

"content" and share their

experi

REF.: KMRED1

All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo

International, si provided and alone in the

formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX

or the like is however neves offered with a

special holograma sticker. Besides our

DVD is characteristed coverings by the hig

quality in pressure and material. If this

DVD and/or the DVD covering do not

corespond to the requirements specified

above, it concerns illegal pirat copy.

Budo international.comORDERS:

Kung Fu

The fundamental pillarsof the original Hung GarKung Fu or to be moreprecise of my school arehealth, spirit and fight.Basically, each of thesepillars are dependent onthe other two. Thus, allof them are equallyimportant in the trainingof a student. Yet, onecould say that, in thisday and age, in ourmodern world where weare not involved in aphysical fight on a dailybasis, the first two pillarsare given a priority. In orderto understand the followingarticle better one has toimagine daily life hundreds ofyears before our time, whenHung Gar Kung Fu wasparticularly widespread in Asia.

he farmer, who sold his harvest on the marketin the morning, would go on his way home withthe money in his pocket which should providefor his family and himself in the next fewweeks. A single attack of highwaymen orrobbers could ruin his plans and jeopardise the

farmers and his familys existence, not to mention the actual danger of an attack or assault. Therefore, one can

well imagine that the ability to defend oneself was veryimportant at that time, if not even essential to survive. Asalready mentioned in former articles Hung Gar techniquesand principles are built up especially with the purpose toenhance this very ability and make it more efficient duringpracticing. But as I said, this human skill is used muchmore rarely in present times of modern societies and guns.

Leaving health and character trainingaside, what remains of the fightingskills? Especially to my teacher,Kung Fu legend and leader of the

Hung Gar style, Dr. Chiu Chi Ling, it is enormouslyimportant that his students and their students in turn arereally able to fight and to defend themselves. I may addthat my Sifu (master) grew up in Hong Kong at a time whenit was common that people were challenged to fights andduels. Even I, here in Zurich, made such experiences withpeople from the martial arts scene 10 to 20 years ago.Today, this is, partly also fortunately, no longer the case.But what to do in order to maintain the ability to fight?Practicing together in class is certainly a good method.However, we would like to go back to work the next dayand do not wish a hospital stay. That is why we approachreal situations and speed slowly. My sifu has beendreaming for a long time of a kind of discipline in Hung Garwhich should allow the participants to show real skills, towin with them, and still not to get dangerously injured. Ashis successor I have takenon the task tocreate such a

T

Kung Fu

I think that with theHung Gar Push Hands

we are going toinitiate a

category which allowsus to come even

closer to the realitywithout being

exposed to greaterdanger of injury. My students and Ilook forward to it.

Hung Gar

discipline and in order to stage this, I have chosen thetournament of my school, the Shaolin Masters. My instructorsand I have been working step by step on this new category,which is going to be developed with each Shaolin Masters, sothat it can be introduced as a full-fledged fighting category. As Isaid, the category is still a work in progress and clear rules havenot been completely formulated. Basically I can say though, thatthe new category, called Hung Gar Push Hands, is staged on arelatively small surface area and without protective equipment.The opponents get ready before each round, lift their hands andwait for the referees signal, similar to Lei Tai (full contact withprotective equipment). When the command rings out the fightershave but a few seconds to show their accurate skills by means ofcontact and technique. Of course both of the fighters want to dothat at the same time, which means that both have to apply realskills (such as for example Chi Sao, Toi Sao etc) in a very shorttime. Seconds after the contact the referee interrupts. Dependingon what has happened, one judges which one of the two fightershas gained a victory. One might think that this takes place inrelatively chaotic fashion and that it is very difficult to recognisewho is superior to whom. Especially because the fighters, despitetheir full efforts and commitment, do not go to the utmost limit.But this is precisely where the art is in this category. A point isonly given when it is obvious that the technique was successful;or to express it more precisely, when one does not get hit, whenone controls the opponent and when one completes ones owntechnique in a clean manner. Attempts in our ranks and ademonstration category at the last Shaolin Masters tournamenthave shown that it will be a very exciting and well functioningcategory. Advanced students who have already gainedexperience at Lei Tai have already listened attentively and arecurious about the completion of the Hung Gar Push Hands set ofrules. It is clear to me why: The original Shaolin Hung Gar KungFu which I learnt from my Sifu (master) was intended for realfighting; without protective equipment, without any Coulds orWoulds. Naturally, sooner or later one wants to go all out. AndLei Tai offers a good platform. But I think that with the Hung GarPush Hands we are going to initiate a category which allows us tocome even closer to the reality without being exposed to greaterdanger of injury. My students and I look forward to it.

I, here in Zurich, madesuch experiences with

people from themartial arts scene 10 to 20 years ago.

Today, this is, partly also fortunately,no longer the case. But what to do in

order to maintain theability to fight?

Practicing together inclass is certainly agood method.

Teaching Hwa Rang Do(MISSION STATEMENT

OF THE WORLD HWARANG DO ASSOCIATION)HWA RANG DO:A legacy of Loyalty,

Relentlessly seeking Truth,Empowering Lives, ServingHumanity

Teaching HwaRang Do is oneof the most

important wayto study theHwa Rang Do

itself

When you studyHwa Rang Do you

quicklyunderstand that

becominginstructor andteacher, afterthe black sash(Hwa Rang Do1st dan and TaeSoo Do 2nd dan),is practicallymandatory

hen you study Hwa Rang Do you quicklyunderstand that becoming instructor and teacher,after the black sash (Hwa Rang Do 1st dan andTae Soo Do 2nd dan), is practically mandatory.This is true because of a structural reason: withoutteaching Hwa Rang Do you cannot really go onwith your personal growth in the martial study.

Teaching Hwa Rang Do is one of the most important way to study theHwa Rang Do itself. Maybe this is difficult to understand for beginnersbut we have to think about the incredible amount of techniquesincluded in the Hwa Rang Do Syllabus. Alone, without students andfollowers, without teaching anybody, it's almost impossible to reviewand study in depth all these techniques and specialties.

Human memory is weak without purpose and Hwa Rang Dopractice requires a flexible, powerful and reactive mind and memory.Teaching is a very good purpose.

About the author: Hwa Rang Do Head Instructor, LieutenantColonel of the Italian Military Police Force (Carabinieri) andEngineer Marco Mattiucci is the Chief of the Italian Branch of theWorld Hwa Rang Do Association and one of the main followersof Grandmaster Taejoon Lee.

W

Human memoryis weak withoutpurpose and HwaRang Do practicerequires a flexible,powerful and

reactive mind andmemory. Teachingis a very goodpurpose.

All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International,si provided and alone in the formats DVD-5 orMPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the like is however nevesoffered with a special holograma sticker. Besidesour DVD is characteristed coverings by the higquality in pressure and material. If this DVD and/orthe DVD covering do not corespond to therequirements specified above, it concerns illegalpirat copy.

REF.: KYUSHO 22REF.: KYUSHO 22

The "Kyusho Tactical Control Program" (KTCP), was designedfor Subject control escalation with Legal, Medical and TacticalDeployment research, field-testing and coordination. The scopeof this program is for use by but not limited to, LawEnforcement, Security, Emergency Medical or Response, Coast

Guard, Military, Governmental Agencies, Body Guardsand Personal Security. This Basic Module is

comprised of one set of 12 primary targetsand integrated into 4 modules of

escalating force restraintcontinuums. There are several

weak structures in the humanbody that can be utilized by an

Agent to simply gain controlof a perpetrator moreefficiently thanconventional use of forcemethods. This would bein the protocol should asituation escalate pastthe verbal commandstage. These Kyusho(Vital) points are wherethe Agent can make useof internal systems of

physical control such as,Nerves, Tendon Structure

and natural Nerve Reflexesof the body. Not requiring

heavy force Fine or complexmotor control or even sight all

of which is subject to failure andloss in high adrenaline states. This

information is dedicated to the Brave andResilient Members of these Agencies around

the world Thank you for what you do!

Budo international.comORDERS:

Fear is a basic alarm signal which, when healthy, helps us develop allour resources to overcome a challenge. However, too much fear canparalyze us. Recognizing fear, accepting its presence and confronting itis the way to convert it into our ally

Overcoming Fear

B.I.: What happens to uswhen we feel fearful?J.D.K.: Fear manifests itself in

many ways, from chest pain tovision loss, sweaty palms, rapidbreathing and heart rateacceleration, dizzy feeling andthe sensation of being about tolose consciousness at anymoment, a state of complete lossof control that paralyzes usphysically and emotionally. Fearis one of the four basic emotionsthat accompany us throughoutour l ives, along with anger,sadness and joy; each of themcontributes and helps us to adaptto the environment in which welive.

B.I.: What is the function offear?J.D.K.: The function of fear is

that of protecting us from thedangers that surround us, thisemotional state appears to giveus information about the eventsthat are happening to people andthe environment in which we are,that's why our body tenses and ifit reaches its peak, it blocks upand paralyzes us, although thisextreme has also an adaptivefunction.

B.I.: How can we recognize iffear is real or imagination?J.D.K.: We must bear in mind

that there exist a primary fear anda fear that stems from fantasyand a prevalence of reason.Primary fear is triggered by an

external menacing stimulus thatthreatens our life; the other iscaused by our thoughts. The firstis an emotion that protects us,the second paralyzes us andprevents us from acting; this isthe type of fear that must berecognized, identif ied andcontrasted with reality. Seneca'swords remind us that "We don'tface adversity because it'sdifficult, but it's difficult becausewe don't face it."

B.I.: How can we controlfear?J.D.K.: If I ask a student to

express himself with an imaginarycombat (shade), leaving asidetechnicalities and enjoying to themaximum his own way ofexpression, he wil l do it in aspontaneous and natural way;now if I let him work for a fewminutes and then I ask him toexplain to me how he connectshis physical part with hisemotional part, he starts to thinkand that's where he begins tostumble, distracted in histhoughts, he feels unable to takea step. It's the same thing aboutl ife, when you want to takecontrol of it, you start thinking ifthis is the right thing to do andyou doubt if you can do it better;and while you are thinking, yourthoughts clog your fluency andfinally you collapse; we believethat our mind is an omnipotenttool able to anticipate everythingthat might take place around us,

we assume we can controleverything convinced thatwe are responsible foreverything that happens tous, we like to think we canachieve anything we set out,but there are manysituations that are beyondour control; in the case ofmy student's situation, he isable to flow until he beginsto take responsibility for hisactions and startsdemanding himself havingthem under control, that'swhen he is immediatelyconfronted with the fear offailure and of not being ableto reach and develop his fullcapacity of expression.

B.I.: What influence hasfear in an exam?J.D.K.: Our philosophy is

based on self-improvement

in the pursuit of personalvalues. Transmission inKeysi goes beyond meretechnique; there is atechnical section to bedeveloped and a followingstep, the hardest, in whichtechnique must be put asideto make way for inspirationand personal expression, soa student in Keysi doesn'ttake a test in order to bejudged by someone, heenters the examining roomto show and express hisskills and abilities with theassumed responsibility thathe himself is going to be hisown judge and the one whowill evaluate his actions,having clear that errors arenot errors, but a platform forself-improvement; we can'tbe responsible foreverything or demand

We don't face adversitybecause it's difficult,

but it's difficult because we don't face it.

ourselves to supervise every movement; if we acceptthat responsibility, we will be stormed by the fear offailure, the fear of not being able to reach thepersonal requirements that we have set ourselves.

B.I.: How can we overcome fear?J.D.K.: Our culture leads us to fear because it's

based on people's control and it leans on aneducation that has implanted terror very deeply withinus in order to condition the way we act and feel; welive in a world that instills us to distrust others, we aretaught to be scared. Being a primary emotion, fearhas its own mechanism, when we are frightened, wetremble and breathe haltingly, with our mouth and oureyes wide open, we become rigid and it can causeparalysis, and that is because we want to control thatemotional state, but our mind has its ownmechanisms to overcome fear; in this case is allowingrelease fear through our body, mental and emotionalexpression; in Keysi we permit expressing ourselveswithout technical barriers, as the rest of primaryemotions do.

Transmission in Keysigoes beyond mere

technique; there is atechnical section to be

developed and a followingstep, the hardest,

in which technique mustbe put aside to make way

for inspiration andpersonal expression.

Krav Maga R.E.D., BASES AND PRINCIPLES

"When an aggression situation arises, the simpler thegestures you've learned, the more natural"aggressiveness" you'll have and the more you'll be ableto confront it."

"It's important, I think, to pay attention to what weteach in self-defense, because those to whom weconvey our knowledge can get to use what theyhave learned in real situations, and realityleaves no room for fantasies."

Krav Maga R.E.D., BASES AND PRINCIPLES

"The KravMagaRED group isbooming and it will continue

being developed, constantlyquestioning throughconstructive exchangeswith all those who workfor practitioners, farfrom the wars of"egos" andorganizations thatrefuse opening..."

"When an aggression situation arises, the simpler thegestures you've learned, the more natural"aggressiveness" you'll have and the more you'll be ableto confront it."

Krav Maga R.E.D., BASES AND PRINCIPLES

"It's not our calling to search oropen new clubs. Sometimes,however, it happens that certainstructures or people want to joinour school. In this case, wewelcome them with open arms,on the condition that it'sactually passion what leadsthem and provided they sharethe values we defend."

"When an aggression situation arises, the simpler thegestures you've learned, the more natural"aggressiveness" you'll have and the more you'll be ableto confront it."

"English boxing, Muay Thai, French Boxing,Kick Boxing and K1 are basic disciplines thatpractice and / or teach all instructors andfuture instructors of the KMRED KravmagaResearch Evolution and Development group.All persons wishing to become teachers ofthe KMRED system must practice or haveregularly practiced a combat sport. This is,from our view, an essential part in thetraining of a good Self Defense teacher."

Krav Maga R.E.D., BASES AND PRINCIPLES

"Our greatest strength is to keep onsearching for what it might be "better",without hesitating to surround ourselves withpeople of different styles and disciplines.Many people other than us have had thesame approach to "research" and "opening"and it is important to share and work togetherto develop "tools" that allow our studentsprotect their physical integrity or that of theirfamilies. "

"When an aggression situation arises, the simpler thegestures you've learned, the more natural"aggressiveness" you'll have and the more you'll be ableto confront it."

"The concept of Krav MagaResearch, Evolution andDevelopment began to beencoded by its foundersbetween the years 2003-2005, and after extensivetesting, it was officiallyborn in 2013 in its currentform. It is a concept of"self defense" meant f