Instructor Purpose/Focus

(posted recently on Mr. Conatser's Facebook page)

While watching a few different Advanced Kenpo students demonstrate various self defense techniques and forms, I noticed a few oversites in their execution from an analytical point of view as an "instructor".

Any great instructor's most important job should be that of the"improvement of the students skills and awareness", and not just having good business ideals.

I believe this factor is missed or at least downplayed in numerous situations in Liu of specific facts of the Martial Arts either due to instructor/student preferences rather than a complete syllabus coverage of material available.

Our Salutation expresses 3 specific areas of knowledge & skill, "body, mind & spirit".

I'll focus on one specific aspect (body) i.e., BASICS.

The "8 Considerations" Volume I, Infinite Insights by FGM Parker covers this regarding "POSITION", which refers to the BODY, optimization of posture (stance), arm & leg actions such as blocking, punching, kicking, rolling, & various other methods of execution utilizing our natural body (and parts of) to defend ourselves during a confrontation.

Proper "alignments" of any of our BASICS is CRITICAL for optimal execution and results.  I cannot over emphasize the importance of correct and solid basics, yet in viewing many  advanced students execution of various basics, I find a lack of correct fundamental execution absent.

IMHO, the individuals I witnessed have trained for several years (due to the ranks they wear) and are more than capable of form befitting their rank.  So why the discrepancy of detail-?

I believe the answer lies with the lack of close attention to detail from a suitably skilled and watchful instructor.  As mentioned earlier... 

A great instructor's most important job should be the correct form and execution of any/all material in the syllabus and knowledge associated.

Practicing self defense forms, sets, techniques and actions INCORRECTLY  develops BAD HABITS and nets subpar results.

Great instructors pay CLOSE attention to DETAILS.  As the saying goes; "close only counts in horseshoes, hand grenades & ICBM's".

In Boxing, professional fighters DO NOT hire "exceptional trainers and cornermen" to tell them all the great things they do... rather, they seek out the best available trainers to assist in proper training, care & strategy/advice to give the best possible outcome during a match. 

Average trainers do not have the professional experience in training, care or advice prior or during a fight.

"EXCELLENCE" should be the goal to any Kenpo or martial artist.  The attention to DETAIL was one of FGM Parkers Paramount abilities and desires for his students.

We should ALL strive for his ideals.

Examine your performances, especially the diminutive details for increased results.