In This Issue -...

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Traditional Martial Arts are deeply rooted in philosophy, principle, duty, honor, respect and character. Listed below are some important definitions with which the serious practitioner should become familiar, embrace and practice: NIMMU : Unrepayable debts, of which there are three (see below) o Ko – the unrepayable debt owed to one’s parents. o Chu – the unrepayable debt owed to one’s country o Giri – One’s personal duty and obligation The 3 Principles of Budo: o Seiryoku Zeno – the highest and best use of mind and body o Jitakyoei – to achieve maximum efficiency with minimal effort o Shushinho – the application of training to your daily life Cultivate virtue Sharpen the intellect as your sword Character development Rei-Shiki (Etiquette from the Heart): Following martial arts customs and traditions because you want to, not because you have to Sempai / Kohai: The unique relationship that exists between upper ranks and lower ranks. Upper ranks set the example and mentor the lower ranks. While the lower ranks depend on their seniors to challenge them and assist them to grow. In This Issue A Guide for Students pg 1 Characteristics pg 2 Rear Attack Defense pg 3 Martial Arts Etiquette pg 4 Attributes of a Warrior pg 5 Reishiki Pg 6 PAMAI Pg 7 What should you do pg 8 American Budokai International (ABI) is an organization of dedicated and traditionally focused martial arts professionals and their affiliated Dojos. It was established by O'Sensei (10th Dan) Steven Roensch as a prestigious parent organization for various traditional martial arts for the purpose of maintaining the "traditional standards" of martial arts. Today, ABI's network spans the globe with associated members and organizations in the disciplines of Shintoyoshinkai Combat Jiu Jitsu, Okinawan Shuri-Ryu Karatedo, Tae Kwon Do, Shorei-Ryu, Shorin-Ryu, Goju-Ryu, Wado-Ryu, Danzan Ryu, Shito-Ryu, Aikido and Mushin no Shin Aikijujutsu Do.

Transcript of In This Issue -...

  • Traditional Martial Arts are deeply rooted in philosophy, principle, duty, honor, respect

    and character. Listed below are some important definitions with which the serious

    practitioner should become familiar, embrace and practice:

    NIMMU : Unrepayable debts, of which there are three (see below)

    o Ko – the unrepayable debt owed to one’s parents.

    o Chu – the unrepayable debt owed to one’s country

    o Giri – One’s personal duty and obligation

    The 3 Principles of Budo:

    o Seiryoku Zeno – the highest and best use of mind and body

    o Jitakyoei – to achieve maximum efficiency with minimal effort

    o Shushinho – the application of training to your daily life

    Cultivate virtue

    Sharpen the intellect as your sword

    Character development

    Rei-Shiki (Etiquette from the Heart): Following martial arts customs and

    traditions because you want to, not because you have to

    Sempai / Kohai: The unique relationship that exists between upper ranks and

    lower ranks. Upper ranks set the example and mentor the lower ranks. While the

    lower ranks depend on their seniors to challenge them and assist them to grow.

    In This Issue

    A Guide for Students pg 1 Characteristics pg 2

    Rear Attack Defense pg 3 Martial Arts Etiquette pg 4

    Attributes of a Warrior pg 5 Reishiki Pg 6

    PAMAI Pg 7 What should you do pg 8

    American Budokai International (ABI) is an organization of dedicated and traditionally focused martial arts professionals and their affiliated Dojos. It was established by O'Sensei (10th Dan) Steven Roensch as a prestigious parent organization for various traditional martial arts for the purpose of maintaining the "traditional standards" of martial arts.

    Today, ABI's network spans the globe with associated members and organizations in the disciplines of Shintoyoshinkai Combat Jiu Jitsu, Okinawan Shuri-Ryu Karatedo, Tae Kwon Do, Shorei-Ryu, Shorin-Ryu, Goju-Ryu, Wado-Ryu, Danzan Ryu, Shito-Ryu, Aikido and Mushin no Shin Aikijujutsu Do.

    https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CAcQjRxqFQoTCOK_p83JkskCFYzUJgod6DsFHw&url=http://cookdingskitchen.blogspot.com/2015_03_01_archive.html&bvm=bv.107467506,d.eWE&psig=AFQjCNEDD0MzsLUB_-ycmnHO2RttnIpPsA&ust=1447680998654598

  • Seven Virtues of Bushido

    Yuuki"- Courage. Master fear

    in every moment, while in

    danger or not.

    "Jin"- Charity and

    compassion. To show kindness

    and compassion to everyone,

    regardless of who they are.

    "Makoto"- Honesty. Be true

    by the actions you show, and

    by the words you

    speak. Follow the laws of the

    universe and you will become

    an honest person.

    "Meiyo"- To enjoy the

    honor. A Samurai must earn

    honor if they are to satisfy the

    codes of the Bushido.

    "Rei"- Respectfulness. It is

    different in Japan,

    respectfulness is more than

    just being kind, it’s about

    caring about others, and some

    say it borders an almost love-

    like feeling.

    "Gi"-Righteousness and

    Integrity. To do the right thing

    by yourself. A Samurai must

    be smart in making choices and

    always chose what is good for

    the clan. He will make the

    right choice even if left

    alone. Practice Gi in everything

    you do.

    "Chuugi"- To be loyal. To be

    trustful, loyal, and show these

    unconditionally to others.

    Lives by a code and does not

    stray from it

    Practices self-discipline;

    masters their ego

    Sees what needs to be done

    and does it

    Honors family and friends

    Respects all people and

    protects the defenseless

    Understands Sacrifice

    Knows the futility of

    complaint

    Believes in a higher power

    than him/herself

    Knows the greatest gift to

    give or receive is love

    Is no stranger to pain

    Demonstrates loyalty

    Speaks the truth

    Gives without thought of

    receiving

    Knows that respect is a two-

    way street

    Spends their time wisely and is respectful of others time

    Practices patience

    Knows he/she is not without

    fault

    Never stops learning

    Understands the value of

    laughter, even at his own

    expense

    Does not force his views onto

    others

    Understands the dangers of

    trying to control others

    Knows the difference

    between involved and

    committed

    Values good communications

    Leads by example

    Never puts another in a

    position to lose face, unless

    unavoidable or necessary

    Keeps his/her weapons and

    tools accessible and in good

    working order

    Is a good leader because

    he/she is an excellent

    follower

    Says what he/she means and

    means what he/she says

    Characteristics

    of a

    Warrior

  • Defense against a Rear

    (Ushiro) attack

    Ate Waza (Hand Techniques)

    There are six entries with the hands

    1. Out-side brush block

    2. In-side brush block

    3. Split

    4. Circle

    5. Hook

    6. Crash

    Shihan Nukite: Head hit with fingers bent in spear form

    Tomo Suki: Circular hand and strike (a hook with shihan nukite). YTime the strike as second strike then hiza to face by lifting Uke’s arm (as in tenchinage). Use the bend in your arm to force Uke’s arm up and face to your knee.

    Nikani Satsu Waza: Hit twice technique

    1) Both Ears

    2) Ear and neck

    3) Back of head, Third Eye

    4) Throat, Solar Plexus

    5) Hiraken (fore knuckle fist) to throat, strike to back of head

    An ambush position is known to be

    between your 4 and 8 o’clock position

    (rear of your position). The perfect

    attack point is from the 6 o’clock position

    (or directly behind you). In the event

    that someone does gain an ambush

    position on you, here is a quick defensive

    technique:

    When the Uke pulls the Tori backwards

    employ the “Three points of defense”:

    1. Grab uke’s arm (as in Ippon

    Seionage), turn chin to the fold of the

    Uke’s arm.

    2. Drop to the ground with the right

    knee up and reach/feel for the uke

    with your hip.

    3. Swing left hand behind you to the

    left side; pull in tandem with the

    right hand on Uke’s arm/elbow;

    rotate your upper body to the left

    (looking back and skyward); pull and

    throw.

    The key to this technique is the

    movement, in unison, of the left hand,

    upper body and kick right leg up and back

    into the air for the nage (failure to kick

    the leg up and back into the air may leave

    it in place to become broken as the uke

    falls on it.

    “The reason we throw (nage) is to use

    the earth as an impact tool in our

    defense”

    There is a term in Japanese martial arts

    called “Butusu Kari”. This is the

    positioning of the body in a Nage Waza,

    such as Ippon Seionage, where you squat

    down with the legs and push the Gluteus

    Maximus (butt) into the target, then left

    and throw.

    There is an additional term that is

    relevant to this discussion, and it is

    Mashi. Mashi stands for establishing or

    being at a relatively safe distance. When

    someone attacks you from behind, you

    do not have mashi.

    The last and final term of importance is

    Shido. This means realistic and/or life

    like. This applies to all aspects of training

  • Traditional martial arts have embodied a

    rigorous adherence to etiquette and proper

    behavior. Throughout history, all military or

    warrior arts and castes have included some sort

    of structure, ranking system and complimentary

    protocols that balance their combative aspects

    with a code of conduct, discipline, duty and

    order. For those who have learned an art in the

    absence of this code, it may seem trivial,

    unnecessary and perhaps even burdensome.

    However, for those who were brought up in a

    traditional school, this code of conduct and sense

    of duty is the very lifeblood of the martial arts.

    Teacher vs Instructors: Martial Arts

    instructors run classes but teachers

    change lives. When you look for a

    school to join, you are looking for a

    teacher. Make sure you look for one

    who embraces the traditional values

    and not only teaches them in his/her

    school, but practices them in their daily

    life as well.

    The 5 Aspects of the Martial Arts:

    There is more to martial arts training

    than the self-defense aspect. There is

    the health aspect of the practitioner

    which includes the internal (organ

    systems, meridian systems, qi, blood,

    and metabolism). Next there is the

    exercise aspect which is the external

    (muscular system, muscular endurance,

    balance, agility and flexibility). The last

    two are the higher aspects and include

    the meditative benefits and the highest

    is the healing of others.

    Art-Sport-Life Science: The martial

    “art” is fundamentally what it looks like

    and how it is done. The “sport” makes

    it competitive and to a great extent

    minimizes the risk of injury by

    introducing a system of rules, utilizing

    judges and maintaining an atmosphere

    of control. The science involves why it

    is done the way it is done and more

    importantly what makes it work. In

    other words, what is the principle? The

    “life” aspect is in the cultivation of

    virtue, sharpening of intellect, adhering

    to a belief system and the applications

    of the training to one’s daily life.

    Giri: Giri means one’s duty or

    obligation. In terms of your teacher,

    your giri would be to observe and

    follow the basic tenants of dojo rules

    and regulations and to understand and

    demonstrate Reishiki (etiquette from

    the heart) at all times. Giri also means

    to be the best possible representative

    of your teacher, your dojo and your

    particular system. This is done through

    exemplary conduct in and out of the

    dojo, demonstrating courtesy and

    respect at all times and setting the

    example for all to follow.

    Compensation: Aside from a uniform

    and whatever necessary equipment

    you may need to begin training, your

    teacher has nothing to sell but

    information. Information from a

    physician, lawyer, plumber, electrician

    or financial advisor costs money. If you

    train with a legitimate teacher, expect

    to compensate him/her for their

    knowledge gained. Never walk onto

    the mat expecting to train if your

    payment for instruction is in arrears.

    This is unacceptable and suggests that

    the instruction is of no value. Even if

    this were to be a mere oversight on

    your part, it is insulting to your teacher.

    Keep you financial account up to date!

    If there is an issue, ask to speak to the

    teacher privately regarding the matter

    and perhaps something may be worked

    out. When training at a seminar or

    clinic, the very first thing you do after

    paying your respects to the host is pay

    for the event. Never walk in and

    change or start socializing before you

    pay for the instruction. Likewise, if you

    test for a rank or receive a promotion,

    payment is due at the time of testing,

    not after.

    Ranks and Titles: Always acknowledge

    your teacher by his or her rank at all

    times, in and outside of the Dojo.

    Calling your teacher by their first

    name indicates that you don’t

    recognize their position within the

    martial arts. When introducing your

    teacher in public, do so with their title.

    Remember that respect is a two way

    street. If you want respect, you must

    first give it. Sadly, while not common,

    many martial arts instructors award

    themselves titles and often times even

    promote themselves to higher ranks.

    This is often done when an instructor

    leaves one system, taking that

    knowledge and information with him,

    which he then gives a new name,

    thereby “creating his own system.”

    Naturally when one is the head of his

    own style, he must hold a high rank in

    the system…hence the promotion. In

    another instance when an instructor

    no longer is connected to a teacher or

    organization for whatever reason and

    feels that this is the only way they will

    have any credibility. I have personally

    witnessed this absurd aberration of

    rank and title countless times in my

    martial arts career. Awarding oneself a

    title of higher rank in the martial arts

    is a little different from awarding

    oneself a degree from a college or

    university or calling yourself a

    professor or doctor. Imagine a soldier

    in the military suddenly awarding

    himself the title of Captain, all the

    while being and actual lieutenant. In

    the military, this is considered

    “impersonating an officer” and is

    against the military rule of law. Sadly,

    in the martial arts there is nothing to

    prevent a person from doing so,

    unless that person has a conscience

    and lives by a code of conduct. In that

    case, you would never even entertain

    such a ridiculous charade. In my

    experience, whenever one of these

    events occurred, the individual always

    suffered a serious loss of credibility.

    Ranks are issues by one’s teacher, a

    board of examiners and/or and

    organization. The same goes for the

    awarding of titles. They are never to

    be assumed by an individual and if

    such is the case, then that individual is

    nothing more than a fraud.

    Martial Arts Etiquette and

    protocol for traditionally trained

    practitioners

  • Advancement and Organizational

    Fees:

    If you test for a rank or receive a

    promotion, pay for it immediately. You

    don’t dine out in a restaurant and come

    back later and offer to pay for the

    meal. SO pay for your requirements

    first, don’t be asked for payment. Also,

    if you wear the insignia of an

    organization, it means that you are an

    “active” member of that organization.

    Keep you membership up to date year

    after year. Professional parent

    organizational endorse your rank and

    add legitimacy to your school.

    Socializing: If you are in a social setting

    such as a restaurant, allow you teacher

    to sit wherever they like and do not sit

    until they do. Also do not eat or drink

    before your teacher unless they insist

    that you do so. Never allow them to

    pay for their meal and always keep

    their glass full. This may seem extreme

    to some but it is the martial way and

    you can rest assured that your teacher

    followed the same exact guidelines

    where his teacher was concerned.

    Likewise, your students learn from you

    and observe your actions. Remember

    your teacher’s birthday and any special

    holidays. Gifts need not be extravagant

    and even the smallest token of your

    appreciation would be extremely

    significant. Remember, that your

    teacher is human and therefore not

    infallible. You may, at some point have

    differences. However, there should

    never be a situation in which someone

    loses face. If you have a falling out with

    your teacher, ask to speak with

    him/her privately and try to settle your

    differences and come to an

    understanding. Never impose your

    opinion regarding the promotions of

    decisions your teacher may make.

    He/she is your senior and you cannot

    see the world through their eyes, only

    through your own.

    Dojo: Always try to be early to class, in

    a clean, neat uniform and well-

    groomed with attention to proper

    personal hygiene. During class give

    100% effort unless you are not capable

    of doing so for any reason. Never talk

    when your teacher is talking and never

    finish his sentence for him/her. You

    wouldn’t stand up in church and try to

    embellish the sermon and the end

    would you? Know your place.

    Whenever you see your teacher

    approaching if he/she is carrying

    anything, offer to take it from them

    and carry it yourself (just as he/she did

    for his/her teacher).

    Traveling: If you wish to visit another

    dojo, attend a seminar or participate in

    a competition, always ask for

    permission first. In the event you are

    visiting or training at a dojo in another

    city, take a small token to present as a

    gift for your teacher. If you are invited

    to participate in a class, inquire as to

    the cost of training for the day. Even if

    the class is complimentary, pay

    attention to the teacher afterwards.

    This casts a positive reflection upon

    you, your teacher and your style of

    martial arts.

    Soji: Soji is ritual cleaning of the dojo by

    the students. It is their responsibility to

    maintain the school and the cleanliness

    thereof. This is a sign of pride and

    character. The school does not have to

    appear to be dirty in order to have Soji.

    There is always something to be

    cleaned.

    Budo: Budo is defined a “martial arts

    and ways.” If you are determined to be

    a serious student, learn the ways and

    live them. It will not only improve your

    life in more ways than you can count

    but will define you as one who follows

    the warrior’s ways, not just a customer

    of the dojo. Fully immerse yourself in

    the practice, philosophy, principles and

    traditions of the arts and you will meet

    your “True Self” for the first time.

    Attributes of a Warrior

    Many people are involved in the martial arts, belong to a dojo and

    ultimately may go on to earn accolades, excel at competition or achieve high ranks. Yet, this does

    not make them a warrior. Only those committed to the martial

    arts and the martial way of life can be considered true warriors. They lead the way for others to follow:

    The Warrior….

    Lives by a code and does not stray from it.

    Sees what needs to be done and does it without hesitation or complaint.

    Understands commitment, sacrifice and delayed gratification.

    Is an example of respect and courtesy, never putting others in a positions to lose face unless it is unavoidable or necessary.

    Is no stranger to pain, adversity or improvisation.

    Understands the difference between spending time and wasting time.

    Is always ready, never having to prepare to prepare.

    Routinely practices stillness and quiet contemplation.

    Possesses a sublime faith in a power much greater than him/herself.

    Knows that he/she is infallible. Is proficient in his/her craft and

    knows that an untested skill is no skill at all

    Keeps his/her weapons and other necessities close at hand and in good working order at all times.

    Says what he/she means and means what he/she says. Their word is their bond!

    Is an exceptional leader because he/she was first and foremost an exceptional follower.

  • Shihan Tamas Torok, Chief Instructor of ABI and Co-founder of the International Martial Arts Academy - (Sarasota, Florida), was invited by Sensei Bob Bolton to provide instruction on Shintoyoshin-kai combat jiu-jitsu at a weekend seminar. Sensei Bolton manages the Tampa - Orlando Martial Arts Meet-up Group, in Lutz Florida. Here, traditional martial arts practitioners enjoy the routine focus of self-defense, physical health and fitness, as well as mental, physical, and spiritual development. Our many thanks to our host for being invited to share aspects of Shintoyoshin-kai and the ability to participate in the seminar. It was refreshing to see like-minded practitioners that demonstrated as open mind, healthy EGO and great energy.

    ABI building National and International

    Relationships at Training Seminars

    - Shihan Laszlo Berkes / 6th

    Dan (Vice-president of

    Kelemen Ryu - Hungarian Ju

    jitsu Association)

    - Shihan Tamas Torok / 6th

    Dan (Chief Instructor of

    American Budokai

    International)

    - Mr. Kristof Szucs / Purple

    Belt (Brazilian Ju jitsu -

    Grappling World Champion,

    Brazilian Ju jitsu European

    and World Champion)

    - Mr. Sandor Lakatos / Purple

    Belt (Brazilian Ju jitsu -

    Grappling World Champion

    and Brazilian Ju jitsu

    European Champion)

    - Mr. Geza Ambrus / White

    Belt (Brazilian Ju jitsu)

    - Mr. "Jozsef" / White Belt

    (Brazilian Jujitsu)

    - Mr. Zsolt Vorosmarthi /

    White Belt (Brazilian Ju jitsu)

    - Dr. Peter Boromisza / Green

    Belt, 4th Kyu (Kelemen Ryu -

    Hungarian Ju jitsu

    Association)

    - Mr. Norisz Szoke-Toth /

    Junior Grey Belt (Kelemen

    Ryu - Hungarian Ju jitsu

    Association)

    During the past summer of 2015, members

    of the ABI chief instructional staff toured

    Europe for the purpose of maintaining our

    associations' great relationship with our

    Hungarian (International) Representative

    Shihan Laszlo Berkes (6th Degree Black

    Belt, Kelemen Ryu Ju-jitsu / Vice-president

    Hungarian Ju-jitsu Association, and Owner

    and Operator of Tatami Centrum – in

    Kecskemet, Hungary). The team of ABI

    Ju-jitsuka attended grappling training and

    demonstrated principle aspects of

    Shintoyoshin-kai. During the visit, Shihan

    Berkes and Shihan Torok conducted

    positive discussions regarding ABI’s past,

    present and the future and identifying the

    positive direction we are heading. We want

    to say a special thanks to Soke Istvan

    Kelemen, (Founder and pioneering

    member of the Hungarian Ju-jitsu and the

    Hungarian Dan College) his continued

    outstanding representation of the arts and

    always warm hospitality provided to ABI

    and to all of our international brothers and

    sisters in Martial Arts. We are looking

    forward to see you soon again, here in the

    United Sates or/and in Europe.

  • Reishiki

    There are aspects of the martial way that we must never forget, and must internalize to maintain proper traditional respectfulness…

    Bowing: The formal bow exhibited in traditional martial arts schools is known as the “Rei.” The word rei doesn’t translate literally into the word “bow”, but rather the word “courtesy.” This centuries-old tradition of showing mutual courtesy and respect has no religious significance as is often inferred by those with little understanding of oriental culture. The bow is used as a greeting, a parting, as a gesture of acknowledgement (as in after receiving a gift) following a promotion or correction during training. Always bow on and off the mat and to any black bets you see. Even out in public, show proper courtesy if you should see someone you recognize as being a black belt. There is no wrong place to show courtesy.

    Titles: Never refer to your teacher by their first name as this implies that you place little value on his/her position within the style you are learning. Just like the prefix Doctor, Your Honor, Captain, Officer, Superintendent, Coach or President, that martial are title has been earned and utilizing it shows that you recognize your teachers accomplishments, place within the style, school and/or organization.

    Uniform: You uniform should be clean, neat, and

    pressed with all required insignias properly sewn on.

    This is a sign of pride and shows respect for the

    school, your style, teacher, and parent organization.

    Also, the Obi (belt) should be worn with the knot

    below the umbilicus, at the center (dantien), with

    both ends of the belt the same length. Never let your

    belt touch the floor when putting it on or taking it off,

    as this is a sign of disrespect.

    Martial Spirit: You are either training hard or hardly

    training and there is a big difference. Those students

    who have strong martial spirit will likely go on the

    become black belts. Putting forth little effort is a sign

    of weakness and shows you do not possess the

    warrior’s spirit. If you are attacked, will put forth the

    effort to defend yourself or minimally succumb to

    that attack? Be serious in your training. Additionally,

    when you are summoned, move quickly so as to not

    waste the teachers or the other students’ time. If

    you are asked a question, speak up so everyone can

    hear and benefit from your answer. If you are called

    upon to demonstrate a technique, always put forth

    your best effort. In the dojo, it is an honor to be

    called upon to demonstrate or respond.

    Associations/Membership: If you are a member of a

    parent organization which issues and validates your

    ranking, be sure your dues are kept up. Often time’s

    students join to get a patch or certificate. If you wish

    for the organization to issue a rank certificate, keep

    your membership current over the years. Expecting

    an organization or style head to hand over a rank

    certificate to someone who is not a member is like

    expecting a college to offer a degree to someone who

    rarely or perhaps never attended.

    Attendance: The only way to get better is to attend your regularly scheduled classes. Learn the concepts, grasp the principles and repeat the techniques until you have achieved a certain level a mastery. There is no shortcut to learning anything. If you want to be proficient and be a worthy steward of the art, go to class. If you have to miss a class or more, always speak with your teacher in advance. Just not showing up shows a lack of discipline, an ignorance of dojo policy, and is irresponsible.

    Payment: The only thing martial arts

    teachers have to sell is their knowledge.

    Always make certain your account is up to

    date before walking onto the mat to

    participate in a class. Walking into the

    dojo and training without paying implies

    that the class is not worth anything. If you

    have a problem with your financial

    account, speak to your teacher in private

    and perhaps he/she can suggest options

    or solutions to your problem. If you are

    testing for a rank or have received a

    promotion and are aware that there is a

    fee for same, pay it before the test. I the

    event you receive a “Batsugen” or

    promotion without testing, pay the fee

    immediately or speak with the sensei if

    this is not possible at the time. Not

    fulfilling a financial obligation again

    implies that the promotion has no value.

    Extracurricular Activities: If you would

    like to attend a seminar or clinic, or

    compete in a tournament, always ask

    permission of your teacher to make sure

    he endorses that particular activity.

    Never just take it upon yourself to

    without first asking. Here again you are

    representing your entire school, style and

    sensei.

    Dojo: Never do anything to bring

    disrespect to your school or teacher.

    While in the dojo, always demonstrate

    proper behavior, follow dojo policies,

    show proper respect to teachers and

    fellow students and give 100% effort. If

    for any reason you are unable to

    participate in training on occasion, explain

    to your teacher as to why, and sit quietly,

    observe training and take notes. If you

    can’t train, you can still learn! Never

    interrupt your instructor when he/she is

    talking. To do so implies that what he has

    to say is not important to you. Wait until

    he/she is finished. Likewise, neve4r

    interrupt two or more instructors who

    may be conversing. Stand nearby at a

    position of attention and wait to be

    recognized. Never criticize your teacher

    or any decisions he has made. You may

    not always agree with him/her, but

    openly disagreeing is little more than a

    challenge of his/her decision making

    ability and is disrespectful. Speak with

    your teacher in private is you feel strongly

    about any issue of a difference. In the

    event you should have a falling out with

    you teacher, ask for an audience with

    him/her and present them with a small

    gift as a token of your humble respect for

    them. It is important that no one is put in

    a position to lose face and both parties

    should strive for a “win-win” situation.

    Ethics: Never openly speak disparagingly

    about another school, style or teacher.

    You never know who is listening. Also,

    this casts a poor reflection upon your

    teacher as you are a direct representative

    of him/her. Sometimes people denigrate

    other systems, thinking that their styles

    are good. If any bad comes out of a

    system, it is usually due to poor

    instruction, limited information or

    insufficient training on the part of the

    instructors. There is no “best style.”

  • The Professional Association of Martial Arts Instructors (PAMAI)

    Founded in 1980, by O’Sensei Steven Roensch, the Professional Association of Martial

    Arts Instructors (PAMAI) is a certified organization formed to unite and inform senior

    members of the martial arts who dedicate their time and effort in maintaining a high

    level of martial proficiency, standards and traditional values. The first PAMAI

    conference offered instruction in basic first aid, CPR, fundamentals of exercise science,

    anatomy & physiology, public speaking and close quarters combat. Now, this program

    ensures the uniform and consistent delivery of martial arts training throughout the ABI

    enterprise. ABI certifies member and affiliate instructors buy building on proven,

    successful methods nearly hundreds of years in development, and aims to establish a

    global standard for traditional martial arts skills and instructor performance. This

    network of certified instructors assures that ABI training programs meet the standards of

    instruction set by the ABI governing and certifying body.

    Nearly forty years since its inception, the annual PAMAI has become the "think tank" for

    American Budokai International member instructors, and the "continued education" for

    certified instructors. Several of the PAMAI instructors host seminar in their respective

    regions, as well as travel extensively teaching throughout the United States, Europe and

    the Caribbean.

    PAMAI is focused on the professionalization of Martial Arts leaders throughout the ABI

    network.

    2016 Annual Training Seminar

    February 19th and 20

    th

    Hosted by

    The Iron Warrior Training Center

    1939 Harrison Street, Hollywood Florida

  • As a martial artist, we need to be aware of

    proper behavior when dealing with our Sensei,

    in and out of the Dojo. There are things that in

    civilian life, people take for granted in dealing

    with relationships on a personal/professional

    basis. The arts are a brother/sisterhood that not

    all are willing to undertake, and with that we

    stand above normal civilian life. Things may

    seem silly, because you have a different type of

    relationship with you teacher. However, the

    code that we live by guides us to maintain that

    semblance of purity of mind, body and spirit

    throughout of daily lives.

    • Eating and Drinking: If you eat with your

    sensei, allow him/her to sit where ever he/she

    chooses, then take your seat. The senior most

    ranks will naturally sit closest to the sensei, so

    don’t assume you will sit at the senior end of the

    table if you are the junior grade present. Make

    sure his/her glass is always full and never let

    him/her pay for his meals. It is an honor to see

    your teacher enjoy him/herself and rest assured,

    he /she has done this same courtesy for his/her

    teachers, innumerable times. Someday your

    students will do the same thing for you.

    • Gifts: Never forget your teacher’s birthday, and

    remember him/her on special occasions, holidays or

    significant memorable events (such as Christmas, veteran’s

    day, father’s day, etc). Gifts need not be costly, just a little

    something to show that you appreciate them. Even a

    suitable card or small trinket from a place you might visit

    would be greatly appreciated.

    Conduct/Character: Remember that you are standing in

    a show window of the martial arts so demonstrate

    correct behavior at all times. If you are a yudansha, you

    are in a very special fraternity. Out of every ten

    thousand individuals that begin martial arts training on a

    given day, only one will make it to black belt. It takes

    hard work, patience, determination, discipline and

    character to get there. As the saying goes: your attitude

    determines your altitude. So remember to set the

    standard and live by it. Your Sensei did, and you will

    too. The Mudansha follow and emulate your actions

    and personal conduct. The easy thing to remember is

    that respect is a two Way Street, but the road on the hill

    take more effort and attention.

    What should you do around your Sensei?