Memorization or Internalization?

When I first started Kyusho, our main focus were the laws of acupuncture according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).  

In order to get into this study group one had to have already achieved their black belt in whatever discipline they were training in.   So this seemed like a logical step in my evolution as a martial artist.  At the end of a certain period of time, taking tests on meridians, acupuncture theory, etc. we were to be awarded 2nd Dan.  This was fine with me as we were increasing our body of knowledge, etc.
We sparred every Wednesday, which was a lot of fun and we built some camaraderie amongst  ourselves in the process.

As I said in a previous blog...there were those in the group that could tell you all the theories of TCM backwards and forwards.  They had a great theoretical knowledge of the material and were competent at sparring.  

My interest was in Self Defense. 

So for 6 months I put the books down, except when I had a question that needed to be looked up, and met for a few hours every week with a friend to workout.  We sparred a bit, but our main focus was on increasing the proficiency of using the pressure points to strike and grapple in more realistic self defense situations.  

Now I am not saying anything bad about learning the theories...I believe they have there place...especially if one is to go into the healing end of things.  

I'm sorry though...memorizing that Fire melts Metal (TCM Cycle of Destruction) or the Diurnal Cycle (the time each meridian is most active) is just not applicable to a self defense situation.

Can anyone tell me that understand that since the Liver is most active between the hours of 1am and 3am that just in case you are attacked at that time...you have a Liver Attack game plan?  Really?

Do you have time to even look at your watch to make sure you are not in the Lung activity time (3am-5am) as this could totally mess up your self defense?

What about the persons attack?  Should that not determine your response?

The theories are great to discuss, so please do not get me wrong, and great for demonstrations about these theories. 

They way we train is to attack the points based on what is coming towards you, end the fight and afterwards if you are curious...then you can tell someone what theory you used...Honestly...you don't have time to think about that when some crazed lunatic is trying to take your head off.

I was speaking with a colleague about this and he admitted that he does not know the names of all the points...but he will put you on your ass with a combination of striking and grappling should you go after him...and if he is interested...then he can find out what points he used.

IMO....technique trumps theory...ALWAYS.  

There are many who can talk a good game...be weary of them.

My philosophy is simple...Don't tell me what you know...SHOW ME....Because after all...Talk is Cheap!

My question for you today is...Is it more important to you o understand the theories of Self Defense...or to Internalize the Practical Elements? 

Until next time KO your obstacles by keeping it simple, keeping it safe, and train with PinPoint™ accuracy.











Mark Kline is a short, bald, professional martial artist from NJ.  He is the architect of the PinPoint™ Method of Pressure Point Education for Martial Arts which is hosted by the Kyusho Institute.  He has thousands students and followers around the globe training in his unique method of learning through a combination of live seminars and online education.  You can can find more information about this unparalleled Kyusho Educational program here, where you can get 30 days free to try it out - http://www.KyushoInstitute.com and he can be reached directly by email - mark.kline@kyushoinstitute.com

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