Jon's article... Respect

Tim_Murphy

Just after reading Jon Mackey’s article in the current edition of Irish Fighter. He basically talks about how the word ‘respect’ is thrown around in the world of martial arts and he points out something I’ve often said that respect is often confused with formality and protocol. Interesting article I thought, particularly considering it was from somebody involved in a ‘traditional’ martial art.

Did any one else ready it? What did you think?

HammerHeadGym

Is it available online?

mark.leonard

I also read it and it echoed a number of sentiments I have had myself at times during my traditional training days. I think the kind of hypocrisy he alluded to, and as he postulated himself, could ONLY happen in a traditional grading system.

Another great article IMO, I look forward to reading Jon's contributions each quarter.


the Irish Fighter does not have an online version AFAIK.

yomchi

Thanks for the feed back lads. I can re print it here if anyone wishes.

arybvtcw0eolkf

Jon wrote: »

Thanks for the feed back lads. I can re print it here if anyone wishes.

Say YES lads, then you won't have to look at his mug shot while reading it!.

.

yomchi

Here it is in it's full unedited edition:pac:, spelling mistakes and all

Roper

Very good Jon. The ponder the thought bit is bit wanky but I agree with the rest

Jason Mc

Interesting.

Jon do you believe in doing away with the belt system?

Or is it just the way the system is sometimes manipulated?



Belts can be a useful tool. For example at or school we have traditional classes and MMA classes. I think sometimes that the MMA guys miss out by not having a grading structure.

For example when I'm at our traditional classes I know that a guy wearing a blue belt knows X, Y and Z techniques and escapes because they have had to demonstrate them.

yomchi

Jason Mc wrote: »

Interesting.

Jon do you believe in doing away with the belt system?

Or is it just the way the system is sometimes manipulated?



Belts can be a useful tool. For example at or school we have traditional classes and MMA classes. I think sometimes that the MMA guys miss out by not having a grading structure.

For example when I'm at our traditional classes I know that a guy wearing a blue belt knows X, Y and Z techniques and escapes because they have had to demonstrate them.

There is an argument for both really. Those who have come through the belt system would agree there is use for it. I am one of those people that have come through the belt system, and I think it can be a useful tool for children, especially in terms of goal setting.

My thoughts are really about the amount of adults that lose the run of themselves when they're x, y or z belt or degree and the amount of horse
sh1te that's involved in greeting or addressing someone who is x, y or z belt or degree and all that 'respect' you are meant to show them, as if they are some reincarnated episode of Gandhi.

There are an equal amount of martial athletes who have never been involved with a belt system, who are equally if not more capable in the ring and outside.

So it's open to opinion really.

yomchi

Roper wrote: »

Very good Jon. The ponder the thought bit is bit wanky but I agree with the rest

I agree :pac: