Tatsu Dojo Martial Arts And Fitness

Do We Really Need Martial Arts Ranks?

The ranking system used by most martial arts schools these days originated with the founder of judo, Jigoro Kano as a means to differentiate his numerous students. The idea of belt ranks became popular with other styles very quickly and obviously it's still used today.

Unfortunately, it has turned into something that Kano probably never anticipated: an overblown, money-making, misrepresentation of marital skills and ability. For many, it is the achievement of rank rather than the training that keeps them motivated and once the "square is filled," they either move on or stagnate.

Admittedly, back in the 80s I was also intrigued by martial arts rank, as though a black belt would give me some sort of super power. It wasn't until I lived and trained in Japan where the only belt colors were white, brown and black did I understand what it was really about; marking progress.

Yes, there are titles like "sensei" and "shihan," but these are honorary, not a symbol of lethality or greatness. And anyone who introduces themselves as "sensei" or "master,"...most definitely is not. Real masters never have the need to announce it.

However, I do believe that rank as a place. It's good for people to have goals and a system for marking progress. I believe it is equally important for students in a dojo to be recognized for their dedication and consistency. But you can always tell this by a person's attitude and external skills; not necessarily by a piece of cloth around their waist.

Looking for a dojo that has a realistic view of martial arts rank? Visit us at https://www.tatsudojo.com/martialarts

How To Get Stronger In Your 50s, 60s And Beyond

I work with a lot of older clients who realize they need to get stronger and healthier for longevity. But there are several reasons why some do not start a program or see progress with their current routine:

1) Fear. Nobody wants to get hurt trying to get healthy. Fear of resistance training mainly comes from either not knowing how to train or having had a bad experience with a trainer in the past.

2) Consistency. Building tangible strength takes time. As we age, losing muscle is a lot easier than putting it back on. If you do not stick with a progressive training program, you will not see results.

3) Motivation. The first two factors boil down to this one. Some times, the best way to address all three of these issues is to find a qualified and seasoned coach who understands safe and effective progression and who will take the time to explain your program.

I'm Dave Magliano, owner of Tatsu Dojo Martial Arts & Fitness. I am a Medical Exercise Specialist with over 35 years of physical therapy, rehabilitation, and strength training experience. I specialize in helping adults in their 40s, 50s and beyond to overcome chronic injury, build strength, balance and stamina in a safe environment. Our private one-on-one sessions are designed to address your specific needs and goals.

Call me at 513-600-2260 to book your Strength and Mobility Assessment. Or visit us at https://www.tatsudojo.com/personal-training to find out more.

Should Little Kids Learn Marital Arts?

This is a picture from 1999 or so when my family and I lived in Georgia during a four-year military assignment. My oldest son, now in his mid-late 30s, nailed me with a knee shot to my thigh as he and his younger brother, also pictured here, were taught to do.

My kids had a choice growing up; you do sports or you train in martial arts but if it was the latter, they had to train with me. Why? Because I would have them train in all kinds of weather. They would do endless push-ups, sit-ups, jog with me, etc. They sparred with and without pads, learned how to throw, grapple and everything else I could throw at them. And they did it without too much complaining.

Here’s what they didn’t do…break boards, win trophies, wear patches or have multi colored belts. Their dojo was our backyard, the garage or the woods. Later, it would be the base gym where they trained with adults and had to keep up. Their training was harsh but it helped to make them into the formidable men they are today.

If you want your child to be involved in martial arts training, take your time in selecting the right teacher. Someone who speaks to your kids - - not you - - about training. Personally, I would be leery about contracts, multiple belt levels and frequent promotions. And remember, there is far more to discipline and respect than your child calling their sensei “sir” or “ma’am.”

If it’s fun and engaging all the time…it’s not martial arts. It should be mentally, emotionally and physically challenging.

Doesn’t sound like much fun for kids, right? I totally admit, the way I brought my kids up in martial arts is not the norm. But I honestly cannot think of a more loving way to raise boys into men.
https://www.tatsudojo.com/martialarts

Boxing And Nueroplasticity In Older Adults

Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to “rewire” itself by developing neural pathways, which is an essential element in mental and physical health as we age.

During my time working in a nursing home in physical therapy, I frequently had patients do seated and standing boxing drills with me and it was a big hit…so the speak. This included people who had suffered a stroke, patients with Parkinson’s and other neurological disorders, even people who had suffered a TBI (traumatic brain injury).

Here’s the simple reason it works so well for people; patterns. Hitting mitts, punching bags, doing footwork and learning how to “bob and weave” are all exercises in developing patterns. That’s why boxing is great for nueroplasticitiy, cardiovascular fitness and conditioning. I use boxing routines with many of our strength and conditioning clients as well as folks who are here for balance issues.

I’m Dave Magliano, owner of Tatsu Dojo Martial Arts & Fitness in Loveland. I specialize in helping adults in the 40s, 50s and beyond with building strength, overcoming chronic injury and improving balance and stamina for daily living. Give me a call at 513-600-2260, DM me or visit us at https://www.tatsudojo.com/personal-training and book a strength and mobility assessment today.

Three Reasons To Do Farmer's Carrys

I typically work farmer's carrys into strength routines, especially for clients with chronic shoulder issues. If you have been dealing with shoulder arthritis or tendonitis, chances are you have lost strength and stability which ultimately contributes to more pain and discomfort. So, here are three reasons to try this exercise:

1. Stabilization. Farmer's Carrys strengthens the entire shoulder complex, including the shoulder blade (scapular) muscles, especially if they are performed correctly.

2. Safety. This is an isometric contraction of the upper traps, rotator cuff and scapular muscles. So, for someone suffering from tendonitis, an isometric (static) contraction presents far less risk of further inflammation while still building tone and strength.

3. Balance. For some of our older clients with balance and gait issues, this exercise not only requires functional posture, but also proprioception -- basically, how your brain guides your body through movement. Even light weights effect balance which in turn, increases neuromuscular demands.

I'm Dave Magliano, owner of Tatsu Dojo Martial Arts & Fitness. I specialize in helping people in their 40s, 50s and beyond in building strength, stamina and over coming chronic injuries. I see one person at a time and develop programs to fit each individuals who comes through the door.

Give me a call at 513-600-2260, DM me, or visit us at
https://www.tatsudojo.com/personal-training

The Dojo House

I recently had my annual eye exam and the optometrist saw my shirt with our Tatsu Dojo logo and asked where I trained. When I told him that our dojo is right here in Loveland, he said, “Oh, you’re the dojo house.” And the fact is, this is not the first time I’ve taught martial arts classes out of a garage. Our first garage dojo was out of our home in Milford. Three days a week my neighbors saw people training in our two-car garage, the driveway and the backyard. I am surprised and relieved no one ever complained about the occasional yelling or the cars lined up in front of our house.

You know, before beautiful facilities with lots of space and showers, many teachers like myself trained people out of their homes or in parks. During my Air Force career, I taught classes in the base gym, usually out of a racquet ball court or a small room.

Ours is a “budo” dojo: A place (Jo) to study warrior principles (Bu) for the sake of physical and mental discipline (Do). And, we’re an adult only school offering instruction in Aikido and Karate. It is actually a very unique place to study martial arts.

If you live in our local area and you are interested in returning to martial arts or you’d like to begin training, call me at 513-600-2260, DM me or visit us at
https://www.tatsudojo.com/martialarts

Why Would You Go To A "Dojo" For Corrective Exercise And Strength Training?

Well, normally you wouldn't. When people hear the word "dojo," they tend to think of little kids in white pajamas breaking boards or perhaps people fighting and practicing self-defense.

But it might interest you to know that not too long ago, many martial arts teachers were also purveyors of health and healing arts. For example, Professor Henry Seishiro Okazaki, founder of Danan Ryu Jujutsu also saw people on a regular basis for massage and healing arts known as "kapo." In fact, kapo is still a part of the Danzan Ryu curriculum. I know this because I trained in a derivative of this art many years ago.

Traditional Japanese martial arts like karate and aikido, the arts we teach here at our dojo, are predicated on posture, strength training, and a holistic approach to life.

Most of our training clients are referred to me for chronic issues like arthritis, loss of strength, balance and other issues. When I train people, I not only do it from a clinical background, but I also draw from over 40 years of martial arts training. I cannot think of a better combination.

Looking for Corrective Exercise or Martial Arts in the Loveland area? I am Dave Magliano, owner of Tatsu Dojo Martial Arts & Fitness. Call me at 513-600-2260, DM me or visit us at
https://www.tatsudojo.com