The release of the new Karate Kid movie has caused me to take a look back at the original movie, which I enjoyed very much as a teen. At that time, it helped to bring more attention away from the martial arts action films from China and Japan and placed much more focus on the reasons for practicing the art.

What the Karate Kid Can Teach Us

While the new movie might be more aptly called “The Kung Fu Kid”, as the boy in the film is taught Chinese Kung Fu rather than Karate from Japan or Okinawa, hopefully it will not only be entertaining but also increase interest in its’ predecessor. Paraphrasing from the At The Movies hosts at the time of the original movies release, the Karate Kid movie was “not a martial arts film but rather it was a film about martial arts”.

The more people can learn about the “why” aspect of learning this art as opposed to the “how” can I fight, the better off our community will be. Self-improvement, self-esteem and personal growth is why martial arts practice is so valuable. Yes, you do also learn self defense and fighting skills, but, it’s the internal focus that brings you so much more. Please read my older post titled: Why Practice the Traditional Martial Arts of the Samurai and Ninja.

I’ll see you in the dojo.

Tony Whetstine (The Bushido Guy)
Poway Samurai Martial Arts

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Traditional Samurai 1860s

Bushido is defined as a unique philosophy that spread through the warrior class during the Muromachi period. It is the code of moral principles which the samurai were required or instructed to observe, which was frequently unuttered and unwritten. It is typified by the Seven Virtues: Recitude, Courage, Benevolence, Respect, Honesty, Honour and Loyalty. Codes of conduct and moral principles, like that of the Samurai, are lacking in the youth of today. Gangs and peer pressure have a strong influence and are putting children at risk. I’ll be discussing how martial arts programs can aid in getting these kids back on the right track.

Those who learn the Samurai Way find it has a powerful effect on them. Their lives are changed as they learn things about themselves they did not even know they were looking for. Come and learn about Bushido and let it have a powerful effect on you!

Pacific Martial Arts is located at: 2266 San Diego Ave. San Diego, CA 92110 #619-299-8361 www.pmakarate.com

For more information about the instructor, call Tony Whetstine of Poway Samurai Martial Arts.
#858-486-0059. www.PowayMartialArtsSCHOOL.com.