Horizontal vs Vertical, Part I
That’s the big question that I get asked. Do I prefer grappling (horizontal) or striking (vertical)? Another question, “Does one help the other?” They are both difficult to answer. I love martial arts period. It doesn’t matter if I’m … Continue reading →
Horizontal vs Vertical, Part II
Does striking experience help one learn to grapple? Not at first. Like I said in “Part I”, the sensory adjustment that you go through is difficult. Grappling is more tactile and striking is more visual. After the adjustment, there are things … Continue reading →
Horizontal vs Vertical, Part III
Linear motion based martial arts, like the ITF Tae Kwon Do that I studied are like Roman roads. They are strong, straight, and fast. Most of the kicks are modified to travel in as straight a line as possible. A typical round house … Continue reading →
Horizontal vs Vertical, Part IV
When I think of circular motion based martial arts systems, I think of Wushu and Kung Fu. I’m always mesmerized by masters such as Jet Li. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, to me, appears to be a circular motion based martial art … Continue reading →
Horizontal vs Vertical, Part V
Many people ask me about my years as a striker and how that translates to grappling. As I’ve stated in previous installments of Horizontal vs Vertical, it’s complicated. Today I want to talk about mental training. Mental training is … Continue reading →