The secrets of zen do kai

Created by Bob Jones and Richard Norton, Zen Do Kai is a freestyle martial art that originated in Melbourne, Australia. After receiving his credentials from the G?j? Kai karate dojoin 1970, the founders decided on an open concept martial art that would include principles of boxing, karate, judo, wrestling, Brazilian jiujitsu, muay thai and eskrima. What sets Zen Do Kai apart from the rest is that it implements a number of traditional Thai kickboxing forms and styles. Before opening his doors to the first martial arts club at 48 Elizabeth Street in Melbourne, Bob Jones had been grooming, training security personnel in the industry since 1960 and was involved in a number of high profile assignments. These included offering his expertise to protect world-renowned bands such as the Rolling Stones, the Beatles, Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks. His book “Let the Good Times Roll” is a compilation of his experiences and was a bestseller for martial arts enthusiasts. Commemorated with the Blitz Martial Arts Lifetime Tribute Award in 1997, Bob Jones appeared in his own Channel 10 segment aka “Fighting Fit” on Good Morning Australia presented by Bert Newton.

Philosophy

Zen Do Kai is far from a closed system of combat, but is instead influenced by various elements of other acclaimed martial arts. Since its inception, this defense-oriented sport has gone through constant changes, which simply keep it up to date with current strategies and trends. After the Jet Black System was introduced in the 1970s, the Freedom Forms Tournament System was implemented in 1983, which was not only one of the most competitive styles in the region, but also one with the greatest emphasis on competition. The training modules were modified in 1984, which focused on techniques that would work right out of the box and a series of practical postures. To add to this effectiveness, Zen Do Kai was combined with Muay Thai Boxing in 1984, subsequently featured in the Australian kickboxing event. During this period, several world champions were born and the international team event and three more world titles were set on the map. Bob Jones, who is one of Australia’s highest ranking or 8th grade martial artists, still plays an active role in creating and administering new Zen Do Kai techniques to over 20,000 students and 1,000 schools in Australasia alone.

Training

The training methods followed by Zen Do Kai have inspired those of the older martial arts and are still open to new ideas and changes. The official Bob Jones website states that the official Zen Do Kai clubs are located in Australia, Israel, and New Zealand, which together place a heavy emphasis on grappling and grappling and use Kata as a form of training and discipline. Zen Do Kai does not promote violence or fighting, instead focusing on self-defense techniques. Practitioners are awarded Zen Do Kai crosses after successful training, which is an assessment of dedication, strength, and loyalty to the sport. Crosses are awarded only by authorized instructors, who may sometimes need their instructors’ approval to bestow the honor. This seal of excellence is considered the springboard into the Zen Do Kai family and is based on the understanding that the student will provide the utmost loyalty and respect to their colleagues in the higher ranks.

There are a number of levels of recognition awarded through crosses, which are divided into four categories. These categories are Bushido, Ishoa, Tomadachi and Kyunnin. The Bushido cross is the highest ranking of all, and was initially awarded to those who trained six nights a week at Soke Bob’s business, and is now a symbol of protection for younger brothers and sisters in the Zen Do Kai heritage. . Next is Ishoa, which is a round cross that is awarded for fierce determination in the ranks and is often celebrated in Zen Do Kai ceremonies. Tomachi is a rectangular-shaped cross earned by lower-ranked Zen Do Kai practitioners who demonstrate leadership and promise during their training. Lastly, there is the Kyunnin Cross, which is triangular in shape and is a rare commemoration given to those who demonstrate exceptional business acumen and a diligent drive to succeed.

Techniques

Since the system is constantly evolving, Zen Do Kai practitioners expect to learn new techniques periodically. This unique mode of learning has not only made Zen Do Kai a pronounced form of martial art, but it is much more efficient than others. The styles taught are remarkably similar to modern defense principles, making them more interesting and valuable to learn. Grappling and techniques similar to those practiced in Brazilian Jiujitsu, while punches and kicks are inspired by Karate or Tae Kwon Do. Kicking, boxing, and punching are used intuitively, with weapons such as Katana, Arnis, Kendo, and Bo being used in extreme circumstances. The basic principles of Zen Do Kai teach students to take down the aggressor, regardless of its shape, size, or strength. Zen Do Kai focuses not only on maneuvering kicks and punches, but also on respect, self-discipline, and inner strength. The most significant techniques taught during the learning period that need to be mastered include throwing, catching, hitting, holding, blocking, and kicking.

competitions

There are a number of Zen Do Kai competitions held every year and in different parts of the world. These competitions are aimed at children and adults from all walks of life and are governed by the rules of the most recognized martial arts.