My deepest condolences to Al's family and friends and those who were close to him.

With all of his efforts to stay committed and dedicated to uechiryu throught his life in hard practice and struggle and to give back in his writing of several books,

Rest in Peace !

TSD guy, I agree with you very much. All should, at least learn how to fall or roll out of a throw. Unfortunately, many do not. Because they have not or do not use take downs in their dojo, they feel safe in not knowing the falling techniques. As to others point, hardwood floors do not help the situ...

Mike, Let me state that i agree with the others in that your post was very nicely put ! Certainly as you indicate, what one's art is to oneself is of a personal nature. As we do not all yield the same benefits or understanding of what we study. Although many may in fact practice the same art and phy...

Bill, First, thank you for posting the web site that does contain some interesting reading material. Unfortunately, i was only able to briefly scan some of it. However, I will research more of it later. Secondly, think not that there was any implication by me that i believe learning stops at 6th dan...

Bill, I am well of aware of your rank and status. As i have no problem with anyone set out to accomplsh teaching a 'well rounded" self defense criteria. Also, i do not pretend to know what "Uechi-ryu" may be to you in perspective. However, these arts of many names, are refered to as s...

Norm, Thank you for your response. Bill, I am not surprized by your repsonse. As i expected to hear from you sooner. At any rate, be it as it may, as many may share your opinion, as you state, so do many share mine. There are basic fundementals in every style and system. Where as there is nothing wr...

To all, Canadawe must also train to not get stuck in the idea of seeing locks/throws as discreet events. These things flow out of opportunities and the opportunity for a lock can be fleeting. Good observation. As many who practice these movements and/or finish ups often may believe whole heartedly t...

Norm, You bring out some very good points and concepts. However, i would have to tend to dissagree with the analogy that wrist locks and throws are an integral part of uechi-ryu. Consider this, you have the advantage of an instructor who is skilled in ju-jitsu. He also teaches it as a seperate class...

Van, This area is obviously your line of expertise. Certainly myself and many other readers would have much difficulty relaying such factors as you mention to a judge or jury. As you have indicated, even with your expertise, it has not been well accepted by council for prosecution and jurers alike. ...

Van, Thank you for that post. As many believe that Ma. has a three inch state statute in effect. As you and Allen appear to indicate that Boston has imposed a 2 1/2" municiple law ? Can that hold up in court if it conflicts with state regulation ? I would think not. Secondly, Allen, i would rea...

Thanks for the clearification. I was not aware of that.

Van, Good points. At what time and place is one considered to have just cause for use of self defence ? When and were is the line drawn that clearly defines one not being able to flee a situation ? As Mass. law states that you must avoid engagement in physical confrontation as long as there exsist a...

Gentlemen, This really is about personal preference. As each individual determines up to what extent of fitness he or she desires to attain. In my old dojo, prior to sparring class we spent a good 15 to 20 minutes warming up with stretching, a few laps around the floor , (it was a good size dojo) so...

Quote: " Rather, this thread is a result of the fact that Americans are a bit chubby and out of shape and that American Uechi practitioners are not immune to the culture they live in." Absolutely ! Certainly your point has much merit. The foods most of us eat and the health & Fitness l...

2green, Please know that as a member of the New England I.U.K.F. test board, we have discussed such matter and we will not be implimenting such standards at this time. So if you are of this region, don't worry about it. As far as other organizations and regional boards, they will have the option to ...