KenZenIchi Kase-ha Academy

KenZenIchi Academy hosted an international instructors seminar in Tewkesbury Academy 24-26 April. Senior karateka from England, Scotland, Wales, Sweden, Finland, France and Poland took part in the course. Senseis Alan Armstrong 7th Dan, Norman Gomersall 5th Dan , and Grant Todd 3rd Dan provided excellent instruction in various aspects of the Kase-ha approach to Shotokan Karate.

ESA All Grades course in Batley attended by members of KenZenIchi Academy today

Losing interest in martial arts happens to everyone at some point. It is almost inevitable, and there are countless reasons for it.

How often have you heard someone say, "I used to do karate before"? The decision to quit rarely seems dramatic. It's often quiet. Yet, years of work can fade surprisingly quickly.

It starts innocently - skipping one hour, then another. Maybe just for a week or two. No real consequences, or so it seems.

But habits are formed, whether we like them or not. The longer we distance ourselves, the easier it is for us to justify what we did again. Little by little excuses are replacing commitment and training is left behind.

For many people, martial arts is a hobby. Those of us who have practiced them for a while sometimes describe them as a "way of life" - and for some, it's true. But for most, it's something that goes along with everything else.

Truly committed students are rare. They have never made a number of themselves. The bigger the ego - the worse you can handle hard or difficult training. If the ego starts to bulge, these committed people apply themselves to superior training so that they remain humble towards the training. They are so intelligent. Only a humble attitude can one develop.

No drama. No announcement. Just a silent engagement.

Everyone has their own reasons for practicing, and life sets different demands for each of us. There is no secret formula for maintaining motivation.

A passion can spark a beginning. Habit keeps you going.

A hobby that fits conveniently with the time you have. Passion shapes time around itself - even when it would be easier not to.