The History of MMA

Introduction Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is often perceived as a modern, controversial, and brutal sport, but its roots extend far deeper into human history than most people realise. Far from being a recent invention, MMA represents the culmination of centuries—if not millennia—of combat traditions, philosophical debates about martial effectiveness, and cultural exchanges between fighting systems. […]

MMA In The Land of the Rising Sun

The story of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) in Japan is not a linear narrative of a single sport’s evolution. It is a complex, often chaotic tapestry woven from threads of professional wrestling’s staged heroism, the harsh reality of catch-wrestling’s submission holds, the brutal spectacle of Vale Tudo, and the unique cultural appetite for dramatic, larger-than-life […]

The Depictions of Boxers on the Walls of Angkor

The temples of Angkor, particularly the majestic Angkor Wat, are renowned for their intricate bas-reliefs and carvings that depict scenes from Hindu mythology, historical battles, and daily life in the Khmer Empire. Among these fascinating depictions are images of boxers, which provide valuable insights into the martial traditions and cultural practices of ancient Cambodia. These […]

The History and Practice of Cambodian Pradal Serey

Introduction Pradal Serey, also known as Kun Khmer, is Cambodia’s traditional martial art and national combat sport. With roots stretching back to the Angkorian Empire, Pradal Serey is deeply intertwined with Cambodian history, culture, and national identity. The term ‘Pradal Serey’ translates to “free fighting,” reflecting its emphasis on stand-up striking techniques using fists, elbows, […]

Sparring In Early Karate

Sparring in early karate in Okinawa, known as “Te” or “Tode,”** was quite different from modern karate sparring. Here’s an overview of what it looked like: Characteristics of Early Okinawan Sparring: 1. No Formalized Sparring Rules: – Early karate did not have structured sparring formats like modern kumite. Instead, practice was heavily focused on kata […]

The Practice of Shikan Meditation

Shikan meditation is a form seated meditation, integral to the practice of Tendai Buddhism. The term “Shikan” is derived from the Japanese words shi & kan, which means “stopping” & “seeing.” This practice emphasises non-thinking, direct experience, and total awareness of the present moment. In Shikan meditation, the meditator sits in a posture of stillness, allowing thoughts, […]

The Legendary Training Regime of Mas Oyama in the Mountains

Introduction Mas Oyama, the founder of Kyokushin Karate, is renowned not only for his martial arts prowess but also for his unique and rigorous training methods. His infamous training sessions in the mountains exemplify the relentless pursuit of perfection, discipline, and self-discovery that he embodied as a martial artist. This essay will explore Oyama’s training […]

The Concept of “Do” in Martial Arts: A Pathway to Personal Growth and Mastery

Martial arts, across cultures and disciplines, offer more than just techniques for self-defence or physical combat. They serve as a way to cultivate discipline, focus, and personal growth. A central concept that appears in many martial arts traditions is the term “Do” (道), which translates to “the way” or “the path.” This concept encapsulates not […]

En no Gyoja

En no Gyoja (Japanese: 役の行者), also known as En no Gyōja or En no Gyoja, is a legendary figure in Japanese history and folklore, considered the founder of the Shugendo tradition. Shugendo is a syncretic religious and spiritual practice that blends elements of Japanese animism, Taoism, Esoteric Buddhism, and Shintoism. En no Gyoja’s life and […]