Get to know your Sifu Did you know that your Sifu, Leo Ming, started training in karate when he was a child? And that since then he has focused his training and experience in Kobujutsu karate and tai chi, training under masters all over the world in places like in China, Athens, Boston, Toronto, Taiwan and Japan? And did you know that he is known to make appearances in TV commercials once in a while? Like this funny one, for Castrol… Read More »Kung Fu Castrol Ad
“In most if not all martial arts, there is some form of integrative meditation component that forms the building blocks of a balanced yet formidable martial artist… half the battle is won and lost in the mind,” says Nicholas Bruce in his in depth article in the Business Day, May 2018. The article explains how martial arts like karate and tai chi can help us develop the ability to prevent ourselves going into the fight/flight response. When we don’t have… Read More »The Science behind why Martial Arts Meditation leads to Stress Free Living
Part of Karate is the process of grading. What is Grading? Gradings are a test of your skills and how they are integrated. As you reach higher levels in your ability and understanding of martial arts, students must also be able to do more skillful and precise moves. During black belt grades- the highest levels – students are tested physically and mentally, and then in their knowledge of theory as well. Coloured Belts Achievement of a grade is represented by… Read More »How to prepare for Grading in Karate
On our field trip to China in April 2018, we spent some time exploring Beijing. This is a bustling city, with its 30 million residents and many cars and scooters. A prominent feature was the domino-like apartments that continue for miles across the city. Another striking aspect was one of the forms of transport – there are bicycles which can be unlocked via an app from your cell phone. You can then hop on the bike, cycle to your destination,… Read More »Beijing
With a background of over 40 years in Martial Arts and teaching self-defence, Sensei Leo Ming shares some of his tips and strategies for keeping safe and avoiding situations where we are an easy target to criminals and might be threatened. These points to remember are especially relevant for those living in big cities like Johannesburg, where there is a high risk of being mugged, or car hi-jacked. When in Car Parks Place your valuables in your boot, out of… Read More »Leo’s Top Tips to keep Safe
On our Tai Chi China Trip, we visited Xian, and we went to see the Terracotta Army. These sculptures, made out of terracotta clay, are something that will stay with us for life. It was special to have witnessed their creations, as the magnitude and detail of the warriors evoked a strong sense of culture, pride, awe and wonder. There is also a sense of the long history linked to these sculptures, as they depict the armies of Quin Shi… Read More »Terracotta Army
When we start to learn something new, especially in a class format like Karate Classes, it can feel daunting and our self-consciousness can get the better of us. Sensei Leo Ming has some points to keep in mind, so that you can enjoy your classes, and get the most out of your karate learning journey. Sensei Leo Ming suggests that you should do no preparation for your class, as a new student. “I usually like to see the student in… Read More »Tips for beginners learning Karate
What stood out most for us on our stay in Shanghai, was the size of the city and amount of people who live there. Also striking is its modern buildings and sky scrapers, together with the authentic feel of the city. We visited Zhujiajiao, also known as the Venice of Shanghai. There is a beautifully manicured garden alongside, and one can see a lot of work has been put into the making of this space, in the style of a… Read More »Shanghai
When considering taking up Karate as your hobby or sport, here are some points to consider Karate over other sports. Self Improvement While training the body, one learns about the Okinawan or Japanese culture; such as its history; its tradition of respect in the symbol of bowing, and the distinction in seated bows, standing bows and the reasons behind this. One also learns about discipline by way of being on time, by way of dress code, and mind and body… Read More »How to choose to train in Karate
During our visit to Chen Village, we spent a few hours exploring the 2800 square meters of the Chen Village Museum. Being the birthplace of Tai Chi, the museum is a wonderful collection of art, sculptures and information about the history and theory of this martial arts. The museum also has a way of introducing you to the tai chi Masters and their life stories. In this video, about half way through, you will see the painting of a master… Read More »Chen Village Museum