Haedong Kumdo - United Kingdom

United Kingdom Web Site

2008-07-25T11:40:00.005+01:00

The United Kingdom webiste for Haedong Kumdo has been updated with more photos - the photo on the left is of me and is one of many on the site.

http://www.haedongkumdo.co.uk/

Shaun Hughes has done another excellent job of the design - brilliant job.

Haedong Kumdo - Philippines

2008-07-22T20:26:00.003+01:00

I've been looking around the Internet (again) and found another Country has taken up this spectacular sword art.

I've placed a link with the others in the Haedong Kumdo Links section - wow. All interesting stuff and some great photos!

Cart Wheel

2008-07-06T13:56:00.001+01:00

I'm having a real difficulty with this one - who on earth thought this one up? The forward roll yes but the Cart Wheel looks like a scene from a Bruce Lee film (anyone else old enough to remember Bruce Lee? Chuck Norris? Ah well ..

And so, the conversation with my 7 year old daughter went along the lines of "Well Amy ... if you think you can do any better ...." Doh .. back to the drawing board!

Gymnastics Anyone?

2008-06-10T21:05:00.003+01:00

Hi, these acrobatic 'sword' moves - they really hurt, especially when you land, shall we say, not on your feet.

Anyhow, schools being what they are these days my daughter Amy has decided to take up Gymnastics. I take her to a club on Saturday afternoons and need to hang around for an hour. Or rather I did. Now, to fill in the time, I actually try and do the stuff .... laugh .... you will be.

Maybe it will be easier when my foot is better ... and my back ... and my arm ... and my .....?

Competition Day

2008-06-08T22:35:00.018+01:00

Well, it wasn’t to be really was it? Still I went along to the competition and had a great time. I am a little disappointed with the result but what could I expect other than to not win anything. I did win experience though!

The competition was really well attended and the Haedong Kumdo had entries from several clubs, including some guys from Scotland – wow! Thanks for coming guys, you did really well and I learnt lots!

The Haedong Kumdo ‘star of the show’ for me was Roy Curry. Roy won the Form competition in spectacular fashion with a beautifully performed Form which was truly amazing to watch. I’m a long way from that standard – but not as far away as I used to be! I also need to mention two colleagues Stuart Burton (1st in Draws) and Lewis Edwards (2nd in Draws) - a fantastic result.

Oh, and I must say a big thank you to those involved in organising it all - great job and worth every moment. Thanks!

The photo is of some of our Dragon Academy Tang Soo Do students – they did really well in the completion too, so deserve a mention and at least a photo. I think I’ll also have to think more seriously about taking up Tang Soo Do – in the future. Maybe without the sparing as I’m worried I may just grab someone and throw them - Ippon Seoinage? – it would be so cool, well, maybe not.

Grading Day - 5th Gup

2008-06-03T12:01:00.005+01:00

My colleagues seemed to whiste through this grading (show offs) but, I guess because of my foot injury (still painful), I found it really hard and was glad that it was all over and a little relieved to pass. I don't want to be in that state for a grading again.

And I have a competition to take part in this weekend - doh, why?

So there we are - another Grading completed, phew, am now a blue belt - I think that's about half way? Another two Forms taught and practiced - it's getting very taxing on the brain cells.

All in the mind?

2008-05-27T11:52:00.000+01:00

This injury is getting to me now. It seems the more I train the longer I’m going to be out of action. But I can’t go on at half speed – things to do, monsters to kill …. grading, competition and lots of other things to achieve.

One thing I have thought through though is completing Forms ‘in my head’. The idea may be of use to others and it seems to work for me so have a stab at it – no need to break your foot before you start!

Basically, find some quiet time and space and just imagine, in your head, that you are doing a particular Form or Draw. Take you’re time and concentrate it really works. I also check out the Form with the training book and/or my notes book and, surprisingly, have come up with a few revisions which I need to correct when next training for real.

I’m going to try the grading next week, with my foot and ankle strapped up, and then see how I get on before deciding on the competition for 8 June 2008.

Bananas!

2008-05-25T14:53:00.000+01:00

I’ve just been playing with my ‘live’ sword – like you do! Seeing what it will do, how it works, getting used to the weight and feel of the blade as well as trying not to imagine what would happen if I had an accident with it!

Now, about this razor sharp cutting edge, how to appreciate this? So I thought I would get out a banana and rest the blade on top of it to see what it would do. Doh!

Well as you can see – no effort, no hacking or downward force needed, the simple weight of the blade sliced through the banana skin all the way through in one clean, sharp cut. Ouch!

That’s my nerve gone for today – will practice again soon – oh dear!

Broke my Foot - Update

2008-05-20T23:21:00.001+01:00

Well, I’m over the shock of this training disaster? My left foot is still painful and bruised but at least the swelling has gone down. I’ve chipped a small bone off one of the other bones in my foot and it is now cutting into me when I move – especially when I train. (You didn’t think I was going to stop training did you?)

The Achilles tendon is still sore too – in fact more so than the break. It actually stops you from even walking properly – every step I take is painful and makes me limp. More frustratingly I can’t jump or twist or even stand on up my toes.

I will need to cut down on the training as it is pointless and I may even do more damage. I’m no longer sure about entering the competition, especially with me doing Yedo 5. I’m not even sure I will grade this time – what a setback!

Never say never though! And I can still swim!

Broke my Foot!

2008-05-16T10:04:00.004+01:00

How stupid can you be? I’ve not only broken a small bone in my left foot but pulled the Achilles tendon in my right leg at the same time. I thought I was at the bottom of the ladder but had one step to go – and missed.

It’s not a bad break, no need to set in plaster – it’s just swollen and very badly bruised. In fact it looks far worse than it feels – but my right leg is causing me lots of pain. Stupid, stupid boy!

I’ve got three weeks to my grading and four weeks to the competition – why now? I’m really in a bad mood. No training!

Growing in Confidence

2008-05-14T08:27:00.002+01:00

Just a review really – just so I can keep my brain in order. Computers write things to disc to free up memory so I’ll try the same? I feel I’m improving at last – not sure if others do – but things are starting to click into place. (Mostly my elbow!)

I can do all the stuff I need for my next grading three weeks away so I have time to improve some more and lessons in hand so to speak. My fitness and weight loss/muscle gain is all better, stretching still poor but increasing and I feel more alert, awake and alive!

The club has also put together a team of students to enter the June competition and I’ve been selected as Captain of the team – a nice thought, so let’s hope we all do well and clean up on the trophies.

June is looking like being an exciting month: grading, competition and, all being well, another visit by Grand Master Eddie from South Africa – fantastic!

Criminal Justice Act ‘2008’ Amended

2008-05-09T17:09:00.005+01:00

OK here is some great news!

It appears the Criminal Justice Act was amended on 3 April 2008 to allow decent folk to participate in the selling, making, hiring or importing Samurai swords in England and Wales.

Under this legislation a defence for a person charged under Section 141(1) of the Criminal Justice Act 1988 would be to state that the sword was required to participate in a historical re-enactment or a sporting activity (where the practising of a sport requires the use of a weapon) and the necessary insurance.

Full details of the legislation amendment can be found at:

http://www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2008/uksi_20080973_en_1

Now that sounds much better!

Competition - Yedo 5

2008-05-06T18:09:00.003+01:00

Here is a little announcement? Not sure what I am letting myself in for but I have decided to enter our local Haedong Kumdo competition on 8 June 2008 – in all three Sections: Draws, Forms and Paper Cutting.

Cutting I can do – I just have to get lucky on the day. Draws – I’ll have to think – I only know twelve (well, twenty-four if you count both directions). I need to do five, consecutively, ending with a bow but which?

Forms! A big problem as I only know the first five well enough for a competition. I’m currently learning six and seven but I’ll not be ready with them in just a few weeks.

Before Christmas though we had a look at Yedo 5 – it’s a form I really like so I asked Master Giffen tonight if it would be OK to enter the Forms Section of the Competition with it.

Well, yes I can, but it will be a tall order. The trouble is, I was first in a similar competition last year doing Form 2 and, I guess, people will expect me to do the same again? However, the only other higher Forms I know just don’t flow with me yet. So if I stand a chance at all of doing well, I’ll have to do something else.

I don’t mind not winning – so long as I don’t come last – but I do like to push the boundaries as far and as high as I can and do my very best. I'll enjoy it anyhow - unless I fall over in the middle! Arrg - the thought of it. Don't go there.

Forward Roll - Form 5

2008-04-27T18:43:00.024+01:00

Had a spare afternoon in the garden this weekend and, well, one has to try it – so I did and here is the result. Ten attempts produced a ‘sword roll’ of sorts. This was not the best roll – but the best video. Thanks Zoe for taking the videos and for accidentally deleting the best one!

I can see in the video where I go wrong but should be able to correct that – when my bruises fade. I’d forgotten I used Judo mats to practice 'Ukemi' all those years ago. Still, I’m pleased with the results and can/will do better.

My next Grading will be on 3 June 2008 and I need it for then - with the rest of the Form.

Forward Roll and Cart Wheel

2008-04-22T17:00:00.002+01:00

This week I’ve come across and age old problem we all have to face sometime – old age! According to the syllabus Form 5 requires a forward roll and Form 9 a cartwheel! And, of course, I need these Forms for thier related Grading!

Should I really be throwing myself across the ground doing a forward roll or a cartwheel – with a drawn sword? To be honest is isn’t the sort of thing I’d planned to do with my retirement and at the age of fifty it’s going to be difficult.

Ha! It was going to be difficult at the age of twenty five but at least I could do rolls then as part of my Judo training. I’ve never done a cartwheel – yet!

Bring it on!

United Kingdom Web Site

2008-04-15T07:10:00.012+01:00

Just a reminder for everyone who reads the Blog, besides me. Some time ago I set up the Web Site http://www.haedongkumdo.co.uk/ .

I’m pleased to say that the site has now been written properly by a fellow Haedong Kumdo student, Shaun Hughes, who has many skills and talents – one of which also happens to be holding a Black Belt in Tang Soo Do!

I’ve placed a link above and in the Haedong Kumdo Links section of this Blog to the site, which is planned to be the Haedong Kumdo Web Site for the UK. If you need more information please email:

info@haedongkumdo.co.uk

Tang Soo Do

2008-04-09T18:45:00.000+01:00

This is my daughter, Zoe, aged (nearly) eleven.

Apparently the 'nearly' bit IS important so "Pay attention," as she likes to remind me, politely.

Zoe has been watching my to and fro efforts with Haedong Kumdo and decided she would like to take up a Martial Art of her own – Traditional Tang Soo Do. So here she is, all ready to start and raring to go.

She forced me to put this picture of her on my Blog but don’t worry about the distraction – she can set up her own Blog and let you know how she’s getting on herself!

Seriously, she’s very keen and I hope she does well – but not better than me! (Smile). And I've been asked to join her in class! Doh?

Criminal Justice Act ‘2008’

2008-04-06T09:00:00.002+01:00

I can’t let the day pass without moaning that today sees the introduction of legislation against selling, making, hiring or importing Samurai swords in England and Wales – not sure if this includes Scotland? I think you can still own one!

Honestly, since carrying a sword in public is already illegal and a further 17 weapons, including, nunchucks (except those included with a Wii), knuckle dusters and batons are on the Offensive Weapons Order, which was created by the Criminal Justice Act 1988, I'm not sure why this new law is required.

Seriously? As Fay Goodman (British Iaido 7th Dan) (see photo) points out, “People need some protection but criminals could use anything. The biggest amount of knife crime is actually domestic violence. Guns were licensed but shootings have only increased."

Haedong Kumdo - An International Sport

2008-03-25T09:36:00.017Z

For many years I have been travelling around the world with different work commitments, hobbies and holidays.

Not surprisingly I enjoy travel, meeting people from other countries with vaious backgrounds, cultures, religions and now Haedong Kumdo!

When I first started training in January 2007 I met Jerre van Kuijk, a Dutch National working here in the UK, and we have spent a lot of time training together and entered competitions too.

Sadly, Jerre has decided to make a career move to work in Doha, Qatar and I think he will be missed. I wish him well and good fortune – and hope he can find somewhere good to train in Haedong Kumdo.

On reflection this is a small world and it is exciting to interact with fellow students in it.

Anti Social Behaviour

2008-03-20T22:49:00.003Z

Well, that took some time to resolve - thanks for bearing with me - so frustrating. It seems the long arm of the law has an even longer waiting list for taking action. But it feels good when it finally acts, and sorts it.

So now I can get on with my training without having a clouded mind and my family can get back to their lives too. All except one that is, poor Zoe. She's decided it would be fun to take up Tang Soo Do!

Started back swimming and training at the gym. I'm glad to be back and feeling much better already. Haedong!

My Little Do-Jang!

2008-03-11T15:12:00.009Z

Well, here we are again, that’s me in the photo (bad light in the Squash Court, sorry) training. I prefer to train in my Do-Bok, with bare feet, I guess so I don’t look too odd to the folk passing by who expect me to be swinging a Squash Racquet.

Some of my colleagues wear trainers in class but I just don’t like the feel and it may be something about my Judo days where it just wasn’t done. Anyhow, I need to learn both Forms 4 and 5 by June this year for Grading. Form 5 includes a forward dive roll with a drawn sword. That should be fun, not!

Swords - Good and Bad!

2008-03-06T20:50:00.001Z

Oh dear. Bought a really cheap sword – and I mean less than £5.00 including postage, cheap! No harm as I just wanted to take it apart and learn stuff without damaging one of my more expensive swords.

Take it apart? It almost fell apart. And whilst it looked fairly good on the outside and had a nice feel to it, weight and balance - it just wasn’t to be.

Look at the ‘tang’ of the blade, circled in red. It’s not a part of the blade at all. In fact there is a steel rod welded onto the end of the blade and the rest of the handle attaches round this rod.

One strike against a firm object and the sword would have snapped in two at the hilt – and who knows what else would have happened.

Be careful choosing a sword please - have a look again at the Sword Buyers Guide in the Student Resources Section.

Grading Day - 6th Gup

2008-02-26T23:46:00.012Z

Well, I did it! I’m now a Green Belt in Haedong Kumdo and it feels good.

What more can I say? It seems to have taken a long time but I do feel I am going somewhere now and a have a great understanding of what is needed and what it’s going to take to get there.

So many people have helped me, so once again, thank you to one and all!

Master Frank Akkerboom - Netherlands

2008-02-19T23:15:00.006Z

Tonight, during our Haedong Kumdo lesson, we had a guest visit from Holland – Master Frank Akkerboom (see photo). What a surprise!

He gave the class a demonstration in the use of two swords and I have to say it was spectacular beyond belief. How did he do that, together with a few gasps and admiring looks said it all. Yes, how did he do that?

Clearly I am light years away from it but hey, something to aim for – and it does look so good. But you have to start somewhere and his technique is awesome.

On the other hand – I’m not feeling too confident about the grading next week and this evening’s demonstration just shows how far I have to go. However, it does confirm to me, even more, that this IS where I want to go.

Thank you Master Frank for your inspiration.

Anatomy Of Stretching

2008-02-12T10:35:00.011Z

I guess I knew it was coming; stretching – just needed some help and I think I found it!

This book - Anatomy Of Stretching by Bradley E. Walker – is truly amazing – everything you wanted to know AND how to achieve it, in very simple terms.

So now I can set to work and increase my flexibility on a daily basis with the book open in front of me. Sounds too good to be true – we’ll see!

Finding it Hard (Again)

2008-02-05T16:47:00.004Z

I always sound like I’m having a moan but I just want to express my concern in public about my self inflicted misery through having a useless brain and a tired and unfit body.

Any Martial Art, as I recall, has as much to do with the fitness of the mind as well as the body. With my next grading coming up this month, the Anti Social Behaviour problem (which isn’t going away) and all the stuff about my fitness level and flexibility - I’m getting very stressed and just a little annoyed with myself.

Well, maybe it isn’t that bad but yesterday, not only did I managed to drop both Escima Sticks at the same time but I fell over as I tried to pick one of them up too!

I have two forms (Form 2 and 3) to perfect in the next two/three weeks, or I’m going to let myself and others down. Get a grip!

Swimming to Fitness

2008-01-29T11:07:00.010Z

Anti Social Behaviour! (Grr!) It’s amazing just how fast you can lose your fitness and how soon you can feel a difference. I haven't been going training, swimming etc to stay at home with the family. Consequently, last night saw me struggling in class with my balance, breathing and generally getting tired.

OK, so last night was a really good lesson – we went through again some of the stuff we already thought we knew only in more detail. Hard work really, doing the same stuff over and over, but I think it will be well worth it.

The Escrima Sticks are very useful – I can use them in a fairly small place – since they are much shorter than a Mokkum.

Escrima Sticks?

2008-01-24T21:36:00.001Z

I’m hoping this latest purchase – Escrima Sticks - will help my training schedule along just fine. I bought them off eBay for £2.99 and they look and feel great.

The plan is not to take up Escrima – a Filipino Martial Art (?) but just to use them to help me co-ordinate my body, in particular my hands, wrists and arms which quite often travel in the completely opposite way to which I told them to!

I’ll let you know the outcome, good or bad.

Anti Social Behavior

2008-01-15T14:26:00.002Z

An odd thing to mention in a blog really but sadly our family has become a victim of some quite serious ‘young kids’ Anti Social Behavior. I won’t go into much detail other than to say we have been threatened, our back door kicked in and damaged, firebombed through our letter box, our front door smashed in and eggs thrown at our house etc over the past few weeks.

As a family we don’t really understand the reason behind it all, other than it must be our turn, but the consequences on our daily life, especially for our three small children are quite dramatic.

So if things go a bit quite for a month or so whilst I concentrate on this more important issue, please just excuse the delay in my blogging. Cheers!

Handforged Swords

2008-01-10T13:04:00.000Z

Buying a sword and all the related equipment, sword stands, cleaning and maintenance kits, and gaining all sorts of knowledge about how to fix things must always be difficult for a novice. What do you do if your hand grip wrapping comes off?

My first serious problem occurred when I was cleaning and polishing my practice sword and noticed I had a spot of rust on the blade. I polish my sword almost every time I use it but it must have become wet or damp somehow when I put it away – and when I got it out again there it was, rust! Arrrrrg!

So I need another special mention for one very helpful Rod Waterhouse of RGW Handforged Katanas, the place I purchased my very first ‘Kakum’ sword from. Rod is very knowledgeable and happy to share his knowledge. His web site is http://www.rgwhandforgedkatanas.co.uk/ and you can also arrange to meet him to ‘try’ a sword before you buy.

I got the spot of rust out by the way without any problems and have added a few more Haedong Kumdo skills to my bow (!) which are not in the book.

Happy New Year - 2008

2008-01-09T10:01:00.000Z

Well, here we are again and almost exactly a year since I first started. I have a lot to do this year if I am to keep up and last night wasn’t the best of starts. I must have had a better Christmas than I thought, certainly on the food front, and If not that then my belt has shrunk.

Last night was hard work though we did only simple things – draws. However, quite rightly, we are going to up the level of technique this year to perfect all the little things. Sadly for me, I discovered I have taught myself a bad habit in draw three – not bringing the sword over and round the head when first drawn. It’s going to take forever to undo and redo.

A big lesson here – if you practice something wrongly you perfect an error!

Year End Results - 2007

2007-12-31T18:08:00.000Z

Phew! Well firstly a Happy New Year to all – what a year 2007 was for me. I think the photo here shows it all – big smile, happy face, a few trophies and a Yellow Belt. I’m going to pat myself on the back and say I did much better than I ever thought I would last year.

Next year, 2008, my guess is that it will be much harder. I have the basics in Haedong Kumdo and have gone from a white belt to full yellow belt, albeit in three grading exams, in one year. This year I hope to raise two or three belt colours: Green, Blue and Blue/Red and with a bit of luck maybe get to Brown (?). I need to learn a further eight Forms then – I only needed one for the first year – so it will be a tall order. And, of course, there is all the other stuff to deal with as well: cutting drills, perfecting draws, stances and free sparing to mention just a few.

As they say in papers – watch this space to see how I measure up.

Special Trophy!

2007-12-07T22:10:00.000Z

Humbled am I. Just when I thought I couldn’t do better, up pops a Special Award for my efforts this year. Presented to me by Master Paul Giffen it truly is ‘ice on the cake’.

Again, thank you to all those who have helped me this year, including my family and friends.

Grading Day - 7th Gup

2007-12-04T21:42:00.001Z

What a great end to a great week – especially after Sunday. Passed this grading feeling quite confident and at ease with Haedong Kumdo at last. I’m a Yellow belt, reminds me of 1974!

Thank you again to all who have helped, trained, demonstrated and encouraged me through this year.

Christmas 'Trophy' Day

2007-12-02T22:11:00.000Z

I’m still in shock. Wow, awesome – what a day! I entered this competition for the experience just hoping against hope that I wouldn’t come last, well at least not in everything.

And what happens? I have the Trophy’s to prove it otherwise I wouldn’t believe it myself but I won two firsts and a second out of the three individual competitions; Paper Cutting, Forms and Draws.

Haedong Kumdo Syllabus

2007-11-30T10:41:00.007Z

Searching the Internet for information I came across a web site in Scotland which has the Haedong Kumdo Syllabus in a PDF file format available for students to download - see (www.dkma.co.uk/students.htm).

I asked Master Warren De-Vry for permission to put a link here and he kindly agreed – thank you. I’ve also placed a link in the Student Resources section and a link to the Club in Forres, Scotland under the Clubs section.

Using the syllabus with the training guide - Vol 1 really works well for me. I can practice what I need to know and concentrate on that, whilst planning ahead for the stuff I will need to lear in the comming months/years.

Swimming to Fitness

2007-11-20T16:35:00.000Z

Objective achieved? Swimming is good for you and I think it has worked wonders for my training programme. I can maintain swimming thirty lengths in 30 minutes now and have just pushed it to thirty-two lengths which is exactly half a mile. That’s a good standard in my book and I’ll stick to that level. Swimming has been exceptional for toning my body and sliming me down to just over 15 st – which is a weight loss of almost 2 st in ten months. Everything is starting to get better!

Grand Master Edward Jacobsen - South Africa

2007-10-21T21:25:00.004+01:00

Training earlier this week was so fantastic with Grand Master Jacobsen that I just had to get some more. So I went again on Sunday morning. It was just a great, more so because I had a little knowledge of what I was trying to achieve.

In this photo Grand Master Jacobsen uses a Chukdo (Bamboo Sword) to spar with a more experienced student.

Sword Grip Change

2007-10-20T13:00:00.000+01:00

Just found a video on YouTube which helps explain the actions necessary for the change a sword grip. The link is here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfN499Z2f2s&feature=related have a look. I hope it helps as it is one of the biggest problems I have in handling the sword.
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I'll put a link under the Student Resourses section for more information.

Grand Master Edward Jacobsen - South Africa

2007-10-16T15:06:00.002+01:00

Today was an opportunity just too good to miss – so I didn’t! Grand Master Jacobsen dropped in (from South Africa) to instruct us all personally in the art of Haedong Kumdo. What a fantastic evening it turned out to be and I just had to ask him to sign my little training book and get a photo. I have so much to learn and so far to go on this journey. Truely awesome!

Haedong Kumdo - Finland

2007-10-09T20:04:00.003+01:00

Well, I don’t speak any Finnish but I did find this website about Haedong Kumdo from there. If anyone searches YouTube for videos I’m almost certain I recognize these guys (from Bergie’s pony tail) - sorry, but the music is dreadful! Fantastic photos of the Art from dedicated followers though. I hope I’ll meet them one day.

Here is the link http://www.haedong-kumdo.fi/valokuvat/list/all/ it’s well worth a permanent link in the blog. Thanks for the inspiration guys – brilliant cartwheel Jose!

Sword Buyers Guide

2007-09-24T13:29:00.000+01:00

This link I found to be of use - information about how to buy a sword - and there are some brilliant videos to watch too (although sadly some links don’t work). I know that most of this information relates to Japanese swords but there is much more information here than a quick glance can reveal.

http://www.sword-buyers-guide.com/authentic-japanese-swords.html
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I’ve put a link in the Student Resources section for anyone to follow.
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Haedong

Grading Day - 8th Gup

2007-09-04T18:00:00.000+01:00

Passed again and though not entirely happy with my own performance I’m quite pleased for myself and my colleagues. A much better Grading Day now I have a greater understanding of Haedong Kumdo. A special thanks to Babs who made our new belts and a big thank you to Master Paul Giffen for his special advice and assistance to me!

Swimming to Fitness

2007-08-27T16:40:00.000+01:00

Holidays, don’t you just love them? They sure mess up your training programme. Returning to the pool has been hard after almost a month away. It’s amazing how you can lose a fitness edge in just a few weeks. Have dropped back to twenty-six lengths in 30 minutes and will have to pick up the pace!

Holdiay Training

2007-08-19T17:11:00.000+01:00

It’s holiday time. I’ve been away to the Forrest of Dean and Wales for three long weeks - fantastic. I did take the Mokkum but I only did about an hour of practice and it just wasn’t the same. I have a grading next week – I hope I can remember what to do. Anyhow, here’s a photo of Llywelyn ap Gruffydd – ‘Hero of Wales’.

Happy 50th Birthday

2007-08-07T13:11:00.000+01:00

Happy Birthday to me .... eight months ago I would have described today as me being fifty years old. With all that I have been doing this year though I now think life begins at 50! I wonder if SAGA do a 50+ discount on Martial Arts equipment?

Thanks again to everyone who has helped me get this far in my life.

Mokkum and Kum Chib

2007-07-25T17:05:00.000+01:00

Got one! A Mokkum and Kum Chib – really nice wooden training equipment – just perfect for Haedong Kumdo. My grateful thanks to Paul Long whom I met at a training seminar held by Master Mark Adlington in Sawtry, UK.

I think the total cost, including postage was £25.00 and you can get one from http://www.playwell.co.uk/ obviously subject to availability, price changes etc.

Absolutely invaluable for training and everything I thought it would be!

Korean Swordsmanship

2007-07-07T10:53:00.006+01:00

Wow, this looks interesting – “Korea's first metal swords are described in writings from the Paekche dynasty (18 B.C.-A.D. 668), a ruling power in ancient Korea that had substantial contact with Japan…”

A bit of History and just one view of the differences between Korean and Japanese swordsmanship.
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I don’t know how accurate this ‘history’ is in Haedong Kumdo terms but I found it interesting reading. And, of course, you have to try some of these draws from on your knees – some work, I think?

I've put a link to this article in the Student Resources section.

Ch'inkom and Kakum

2007-06-12T15:49:00.000+01:00

Hey, look! What do you think of the swords? I have two new swords – real ones that is. One is sharp - Ch'inkom - for ‘live’ cutting (straw mats and bamboo) and the other quite blunt, - Kakum - just to practice with. Beautifully made they bring another dimension into the ‘Art of the Sword’.

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However, they are much heavier than a Mokkum and more difficult to control too. Additionally, a whole new skill set is required to keep them clean and in a good, safe, condition which is very important.

Anyone for Squash?

2007-06-02T12:56:00.000+01:00

In April I mentioned that training and practice outside of the Do-jang was becoming a problem for me and so here is one possible solution? My local Health Club, the Manor Leisure Centre has allowed me to practice Headong Kumdo in a squash court. Sounds like a reasonably safe environment and not open to the elements. Apart from the strange looks I get though the viewing glass, it’s just the job and much cheaper than finding or hiring a hall for one.

Group Photo

2007-05-20T20:27:00.000+01:00

OK, not the best of photo’s, but here we are on Grading Day -

20 May 2007. I'm the white belt in the middle.

Grading Day - 9th Gup

2007-05-20T18:46:00.000+01:00

This was my first grading test in almost twenty five years. Maybe I expected more from myself, the examination or both? I know it’s a mind set – but this isn’t the challenge I thought it was going to be – I think I’ve missed something here? Confused am I! Anyhow, I passed and now have a little black tag on my white belt. Coool.

Haedong Kumdo UK - Website

2007-05-17T19:21:00.000+01:00

Back in February I was saying how hard it was to find out anything about Haedong Kumdo on the Internet – it can’t be that new! Anyhow, one way around this (apart from this Blog) is to register my own Internet Domain – it’s only Twenty Pounds or so for a couple of years plus hosting – so I’ve done it.
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I’ve let the Masters know that it is there and will get around to using it someday, soon I hope, but until then anyone can view the Nine Principles of Haedong Kumdo on the site which can be found, amazingly, at http://www.haedongkumdo.co.uk/

For now I've put a link into the site under the Haedong Kumdo links - oh, and one to the website of our colleagues in South Africa - http://www.haedongkumdo.co.za/

Haedong!

First Trophy

2007-05-16T10:45:00.000+01:00

What a surprise!

Arrived at an event expecting to learn something new and walked away with a trophy. Beginners luck or just good fortune it’s a great boost to my training plan.

Thank you to all those who took part in the competition, for their help, knowledge sharing and encouragement.

Swimming to Fitness

2007-04-28T20:24:00.000+01:00

Just a quick note about swimming and fitness. Everything the doctors say about health and swimming is correct, absolutely. I can do twenty lengths now and although I do have a rest here and there for a minute or so, I can complete the lot in less than 40 minutes.

In genreral, I might add, my whole body seems to be comming back to life - including my brain - which is much needed in this Martial Art for the concentration levels alone.

Guide Book - Vol 1

2007-04-19T22:11:00.000+01:00

Haedong! Bought a book – “Haedong Kumdo – The Ultimate Guide to the Korean Sword Martial Art. Volume 1.” ISBN # 978-0-620-38112-3. Price £15.00.

Fantastic reading, in English, and includes all that is to come in the syllabus up to 1st Dan. See the Student Resources links for more details.

My Little Do-jang?

2007-04-17T12:42:00.001+01:00

Training and additional practice other than in a Do-jang is always a problem, even more so when it involves a sword. Here I am in the garden – well away from the kids who are at school today. It’s supposed to be the P’alsang-se stance – to improve the balance. Unfortunately in April it’s cold, windy and often wet. Still, if that’s what it takes - I don’t mind a little pain. A tiny amount!

Mokkum and Kum Chib

2007-03-27T09:45:00.000+01:00

Hi again, Haedong!

I’ve been doing some thinking about my training and progress to date and have decided to make some changes. The Mokkom I started with in January is fine but it is a little small and too light for me. I also feel I should train with a Kum Chib (scabbard) to help me get the draw ‘angles’ correct.

Having had an opportunity to play with a real sword (and scabbard), it’s just not the same as a wooden sword slid into your belt – and you have to put a real sword back into the right place too!

Unfortunately nobody has heard of anyone who makes one or has one in Peterborough and it may take some time to find something suitable. However, I just know this will become important if I am to progress.

Swimming to Fitness

2007-03-09T15:35:00.000Z

This problem about fitness and being overweight is getting to me. I have absolutely no energy or precious little at the end of a long day when I have a bit of spare time. Oh, and by which time it’s dark, cold and miserable.

I know I’d collapse of a heart attack if I went to the local gym so am taking an easier option, I think (?), swimming. Went for the first time last night (in probably ten years) and swam six, 25 meter lengths (with a rest at each end). It took about 30 minutes – ouch. Still, I didn’t drown and slept like a log.

I’ll try and add two lengths more each week and see how it goes.

Sword Draw Three (Front)

2007-03-06T14:58:00.000Z

This week I was taught Draw Three and with the nice weather thought I would have a go in the garden and video the result. Not much of a result – it doesn’t even look right. Still, I enjoyed learning about video editing.

Would anyone like to comment on the Draw … or the Video. Ouch!

Haedong Kumdo Clubs

2007-02-24T19:28:00.001Z

I’ve been telling a few of my old friends about this Martial Art. Some have expressed an interest and want to find out more. Alas there is hardly anything to be found on the Internet so as I find out details of the various clubs in and around the UK, (World) I’ll post some links here on this blog for anyone to read. If you know of any please feel free to add a comment.

Grading

2007-02-19T19:17:00.001Z

I don't beleive it! I'm not eligible for this first grading as I am not 'time qualified'. Never come across this before - you were ether good enough or not? How things have changed - can't say I agree with it but hey - I joined the club and they have rules. Grrr - frustrating.

Finding it hard(er)

2007-02-12T19:59:00.000Z

I can’t do this? It is such a drain and I’m tired all the time after a good training session – sometimes for days. OK, I never expected it to be easy, certainly not a walk through but really, I’m so unfit and so overweight. The combination makes a desparate situation.
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Went to see the Doctor this week? He was a great help, not. Still at least I can confirm that I am, in medical terms, defined as clinically obese. It is all down to me - in getting like this in the first place and finding a solution to it!

Got the Jitters

2007-02-01T01:31:00.000Z

Just having a few jitters after the last lesson. If I say 'Sodo-se' then I guess I don’t have to say to much more to those in the know. I ache in places I never knew I had! Even the 'Kima-se' feels odd and looks even worse. How do they do that! I think I’ll keep this Blog a secret for this first year?

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I also need to get a grip of the Korean language - it's nothing like Japanese. Doh! Stupid thing to say!

About Me

2007-01-17T07:54:00.000Z

Ooops, just realised that anyone reading this Blog won’t have a clue about me or what is going on here. It’s a long story as they say but I’ll try and be brief.

A long, long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away …. there was this young, fighting fit, Judo bloke called Steve Allan. He started his Martial Arts training at the end of 1974 having joined the Royal Air Force. In those days of olde one could scream through the grades and it wasn’t long before he was not only a Black Belt, but fighting, and winning competitions for the RAF Judo Team around the world.

He left the RAF in 1984 and lost touch with his Judoka colleagues, gradually putting on weight and becoming increasingly unfit until he grossed 17st 10lb by 2005. Hard to believe but you have to see the photos – which are not going to be shown to you!

Anyhow, to cut a long story short, I retired in 2002 (ish) but had to give that life up when my son, Luke, was born in April 2005 – he’s such a treasure – but I want to be there for him when he is older and to do that, I need to live a healthier lifestyle!

Master Paul Giffen - United Kingdom

2007-01-12T19:08:00.009Z

Early days but my Instructor for Haedong Kumdo sword will be Master Paul Giffen of Giffen’s Tang Soo Do. (3rd Dan Haedong Kumdo, 4th Dan Master Tang Soo Do, 3rd Dan Ki Do, 2nd Dan Kickboxing).

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The Peterborough Haedong Kumdo Club meet most

Tuesday Evenings between

7.45 - 8.45 pm at:

The Cresset
Peterborough
Cambs PE3 8DX

Telephone: 01733 333523 for more information

or email: info@haedongkumdo.co.uk

Dragon Black Belt Academy

2007-01-09T22:37:00.000Z

Well, here we go on the long or short adventure. I’ve taken the first step and joined the Dragon Black Belt Academy in Peterborough, UK. I have all the equipment I need to start Haedong Kumdo and have had my first lesson. It was not too bad at all and there are a great bunch of guys and girls to train with.

Happy New Year - 2007

2007-01-02T11:23:00.000Z

We all make New Year’s resolutions and so here is mine – who knows how long it will last? The photo is from Christmas Day that’s me (on the left) and my daughter Amy on the right. In the middle is a brand new Mokkum – a wooden sword from my friends Mat and Babs.

My New Year’s resolution is to take up the ancient Korean sword art of Haedong Kumdo. I’ve already bought a Do-bok (uniform) and will be off down to the Do-jang (training gym) later this week for my very first lesson.

I’ll be fifty (50) in August this year and I’m just wondering what is in store – what a time to start again.