Studying Many Arts

   The study of many Martial Arts will make for a well rounded fighter. the more techniques and fighting methods to take out an opponent means you will know how to handle more situations. Miyamoto Musashi
wrote in his book, known as The Book of Five Rings, the following rules:

1. Think without any dishonesty.
2. Forge yourself in the way.
3. Touch upon all the arts.
4. Know the ways of all occupations.
5. Know the advantages and disadvantages of everything.
6. Develop a discerning eye in everything.
7. Understand what cannot be seen by the eye.
8. Pay attention to even small things.
9. Do not involve yourself in the impractical.

 Following these rules will keep you open minded in the Way of Martial Arts.

   Remember that there are no superior Martial Arts, All forms are equal. they all are designed to achieve similar objectives. Neutralising the enemy whether it is done with aggressive destructive techniques or pacifist preserving techniques the objective is still the same.  The victor of any fight is not determined by the form studied by either participant, but by the skill and ability of the individual. To ask a question such as ' Is karate better than ju jitsu?' is wrong and should not be thought about. Every Martial Art has its own use.

   If there is a few different clubs in your town, you should find the time to go and train in them for about 6 weeks. If you find that it is too impractical or doesn't fit well with your main form, then take away with you the knowledge of how that style functions, just in case you ever come across an opponent who has studied that Art. I see it as a an experience, and the more experience you have the better the fighter you will become. Know Your Enemy.