Commitment, Practice, and Success
John Wertz

--- The only way to improve a skill is through continuous practice. ---

     No where is that more evident than in the martial skill set.  Before deciding to begin learning a martial art, you must decide if you're willing to make the commitment to practice, exercise, deal with pain, and focus your mind.  Unfortunately many of us who practice an art can't, but more often, won't make that choice.

     To get the most from an art, you need to "live" it 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  That doesn't mean wearing your Gi to work or going barefoot in the snow.  It does mean thinking about what you've learned and how to apply it to non-defensive situations.  It means visualizing the techniques your Sensei has demonstrated.  It means taking the time to stretch and practice at home.  It means saying no to activities that will interfere with your practice.  It means committing. 

     Are you aware of your balance, how your body moves, and what's around you?  You should be.  Do you watch the way other people move, what they do, how they react?  You should be.  Do you treat those around you with respect and honor, adapting to the situation you're in? You should be.