babypowderboy blog

Norwich Yes Group Talk on 25th August 2011

2011-08-30T13:49:00.000+01:00

On Thursday last week I gave my story as a quiet and shy young lad and how I have changed into the 4th Degree Black Belt leader and role model I am today. The trials and tribulations of SBN Jon and his quest to gain more confidence.

A good start and strong welcome

Maintaining prescence on the stage and making sure I make eye contact with everyone in the audience by moving about to keep presence up on both sides of the stage

Perhaps I should have been an air steward? And the exits are here... here... and here.

The audience seem to be enjoying my story, its always good to make people laugh at your own expense!

Here you get a better feel for how many people were in the audience, and how well lit it all is. There is no hiding from this lot!

As part of my journey to gain more confidence this event is definitely a tick in the box.

You can come up with your own caption for this pic.

Big finish

And everyone really seemed to enjoy it. Job done. Everyone is happy.

These are the other speakers at Norwich Yes Group Left to Right

Monica, Me, Kay, Mark and Tosin the organiser is on the far right)

Karen Asempur - Dancer, Actress, Inspirational Speaker

2011-07-29T11:55:00.002+01:00

Last night at the Norwich Yes Group I had the fortune to meet Karen Asemper - Inspirational Speaker. I have to admit I didn't know what to expect as I was not familiar with Karen's previous work as a dancer or actress. Karen has been in Coronation Street, Emmerdale and Doctors. I don't watch those sort of TV shows so I had no idea about Karen's background.

None of that mattered anyway as I was blown away by her talk. It has completely changed the way I was going to give my talk at the Members Night at the Yes Group in Norwich August event if I was picked. The feelings, the emotional roller coaster of her talk was breath taking. I was literally on the edge of my seat.

There have been very few speakers I have seen over the years that have me on the edge of my seat as many offer a similar message, but with Karen I feel like I connected on another level. Her story is so close to that of my own, the things she said and spoke of with such honesty, openness and passion I haven't been able to do about my own life.

I feel truly inspired and I wanted to thank you Karen for truly changing my outlook on life for the better.

For more information about Karen and her work please visit her website at http://www.karenasemper.com/

New Kuk Sool-ers

2011-07-27T12:55:00.000+01:00

I love reading blogs from students who start kuk sool won and write about their journey to black belt and beyond. Its something I wished was available when I first started training 18 years ago.

A good friend of mine started kuk sool won in January and has decided to blog about his experiences in the process. To read his entertaining reports check out http://lleksu.blogspot.com/

Lleksu isn't his real name in case you were wondering where it originates, but to maintain his hidden identity like the superhero he is I wont say any more!

Lleksu didn't do much in the way of exercise prior to Kuk Sool and it was his wife that encouraged him to come along because she knows my wife and they go dancing together. SBN Helen invited them as part of our "KICK START" programme (see post back in January) and there has been no stopping either of them since.

In fact Lleksu is now training 3+ times per week and really giving it his all in the process. His progress reminds me so much of myself when I first started.

I look forward to keeping up with his blog. If you like reading about kuk sool won blogs then check out the links on my "Places to go people to see" list on the left.

Training Update

2011-07-27T12:44:00.000+01:00

I went over to Halesworth dojang to train with the black belts and I took a good friend a kuk sool won yellow belt so he could train in a proper dojang rather than the large sports hall to see and feel the difference.

What a great night! We both came away sweating buckets and I ended up teaching the black belt class. I put them through their paces and they really rose to the occasion so well done Halesworth Black Belts!! We managed to steam up the windows and the mirrors - even with the windows open - thats a great work out for you.

I look forward to returning again very soon.

Baby Powder Boy the Superhero

2011-07-21T17:39:00.001+01:00

A good friend of mine designed these super heroes for a laugh but I like it. Helen is at the top as Veggie Girl with her carrot firing guns and carrot ammo attached to her arms.

My baldy hero is in the middle and the creamer ballerina is at the bottom

which is our illustrators good lady wife.

17 Years to get your Black Belt?

2011-07-20T17:52:00.001+01:00

I'd like to pay tribute to my brother for sticking with kuk sool for so long and finally making the journey to black belt last November.

We both started kuk sool won on the same day and with his band commitments and moving house over the years he has taken lots of time out - up to 8 years in one stint - he came back with a vegence 2 years ago and began from the beginning. Within no time at all his memory came back and his instructor allowed him to fast track back to brown belt where he left off. This was great news and meant that he would get his black belt sooner.

Congratulations Matt, it only gets better from here on!

How's that for a story to go with my favourite quote... "A black belt is just a white belt that never gave up"

Colchester Zoo 2011

2011-07-20T17:45:00.002+01:00

We went to see the animals at Colchester Zoo with the folks that Helen climbed Mount Kilimanjaro with. This was the first time I met most of them and they are an excellent bunch of people. After spending only minutes with them they are easy to get on with and great friends.

I'm a zebra crossing.

Quality times - 8 year anniversary

2011-07-20T17:43:00.000+01:00

Helen and I are as strong as ever in ourselves and our relationship. This picture was taken recently at my cousins wedding and says it all. We recently celebrated our 8th anniversary and I love my wife more now than I did the day I said "I do".

Doing Demo's as Husband & Wife Sa Bum Nims

2011-07-20T17:38:00.000+01:00

I have to say there is a real buzz about doing demos as a SBN Husband and Wife team.

The Crowd loves Helen and the way she gets them going in the ladies self defence routine.

It looks like I'm really being choked there doesn't it? Thats because I am.

Good height there Mrs Dee.

If anyone who doesn't know the staff sparring routine and thinks its "put on", take a look at the bend in SBN Helen's staff that is forcing me back into a roll.

Many thanks to everyone who took part in our demos for 2011

Helen Promotes to SBN 4th Degree Black Belt

2011-07-20T17:33:00.000+01:00

Helen Denny of Lowestoft Kuk Sool Won has recently been promoted to 4th Degree Black Belt by the Grand Master In Hyuk Suh in Kings Lynn at the annual European Championships and Masters Exhibition.

Helen has been training at Lowestoft Kuk Sool Won under Master Instructors Martin and Alison Ducker for over 16 years. Her final test was held at Lynn Sport in Kings Lynn and lasted over 2 hours, this was the 8th test of this length over a 2 year period which is required to show commitment and stamina before being promoted to 4th degree. Achieving the 4th degree black belt is a significant mile stone at Kuk Sool because this is one rank away from becoming a Master.

Helen is now in the top ten highest ranking female black belts at Kuk Sool Won in the UK. 5th Degree Master Instructor Alison Ducker said "Its hard enough to reach the 4th degree black belt level as it is, but its even harder as a woman".

Congratulations Mrs Dee on achieving this monumental level at Kuk Sool.

Back to the blog.... ?

2011-07-20T17:11:00.000+01:00

I haven't been posting on my blog for ages and I feel really out of touch with it. Facebook is such a quick and dirty route that I have fallen foul to its time saving (or time erroding for some).

So I thought I'd give it another go as I was going to knock it on the head. Let me know your thoughts and comments over the next few posts and this will help me decide whether I'm going to continue. I'd like to see the blog develop with me through to the master level. That would be my goal.

Speaking of goals and things to achieve, this year has been much better than last. It seems all I did last year was stress about raising money for Help an East Coast Child and making sure we raised enough money for Helen to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Since that event it seems like we haven't stopped and settled down yet.

We had our first break together in over a year a couple of weeks ago and it was nice.... but I want more now I've had a sample. I've missed spending quality time with my good lady wife.

We are both working hard and I've had a promotion at work which is good, but it does come with you guessed it..... MORE work! I've been able to earn some overtime for the first time in a decade so I've lapped that up in a hope that I can do enough to get a new shower in our en suite as the current one is quite frankly.... pathetic.

Kuk Sool wise - training has been going well, I'm fitter than I was last time I posted on the blog and Master Martin has really upped his game this year and pushing us harder and getting more out of us. I am currently recovering from a particularly gruelling session over the weekend! Friday's classes were tough for Master Martin's birthday and it was brilliant. Saturday morning we covered the 15 hand strikes and Tiny Dragons class, and Saturday afternoon at the instructors workshop we worked on Master Sung Jin's kicking routine. Man I was sweating buckets and it felt great!

I'm so honoured to have Master Martin as an instructor. Many of us have no idea what it would cost to have a personal trainer in a gym who is as qualified and genuinely interested in our development as him. If you haven't already make sure you thank him for his continued support.

Kuk Sool !

Both bikes replaced

2011-04-19T09:16:00.000+01:00

There's been a lot of change of late. A while ago I decided that I would like to change the blackbird for something smaller, lighter and more flickable. I've been after my best man's ZX6R for quite a while now as he has had it from new, treats it well and looks after it like it should be. Its mint as you can see from the picture below. I went to have a test ride on it and look it over when Mrs D started to say "Hmmmmm, I quite like that". Fast forward a bit and Mrs D is now the proud owner of the ZX6R in the picture below after selling her SV 650. A nice trade up and I have to say it has improved her riding and confidence immensely. I wish the insurance was cheaper for it though, but it will improve as Helen gets her first year no claim bonus in May. For some reason the insurance companies aren't too keen on a new rider with less than 1 year experience riding a group 15 motorcycle capable of 170mph (group 17 being the highest group of insurance on a motorcycle)!!

This left me looking for a bike to replace the blackbird with. I advertised it and was contacted by a really friendly gentleman who was interested in a swap. He told me had a 2003 Aprilia Tuono 1000cc. I was interested. Fast forward a multitude of texts, emails and phone calls and here it is!

Its a bit tatty in places and some bits are cracked and need repairing/replacing but this is easy work with the right contacts and I'm already looking forward to transforming it. I picked it up in Peterborough with all this luggage on it and a tank bag too. It was easy to remove the luggage bags and tank protector, but getting the luggage rail off was a pain having to remove the rear tail unit in the process. I guess it makes it secure, but not a 5 min job if you were thinking of popping out and needed the luggage fitted and its too ugly to leave on all the time.

The two pictures below are taken after I have removed all the luggage and rails and tag protection so we can see what we are dealing with. Its better looking that I originally thought and riding it is a scream.

I'd like to add that these two pictures here have been taken BEFORE I cleaned it.

New Job, New Changes

2011-04-19T09:05:00.000+01:00

I know its been a while since my last post but this is because I started a new role at the same company on 28th March. It was a sideways move and I'm so pleased I made the decision to apply. I'm now a literature management consultant. Sounds like a glorified librarian and thats not far off the mark. Its my job to manage changes to the documentation. So far... I'm loving it!

The people are really nice and friendly and we've already got a good rapport going on. It really makes it easy to get out of bed in the morning when you are enjoying what you do with the people that you work with.

More les paul pics

2011-03-22T12:54:00.000Z

What I like is that as the guitar moves the colours change depending on how much light gets reflected and when the guitar is in the shade it goes back to a plain black. Its awesome and should look pretty good under some stage lighting.

Project Les Paul is complete

2011-03-22T12:52:00.000Z

As I started to post last year I had my bike painted in a special paint that reflects sunlight in a full spectrum of colours. I had a little bit of the paint left over so I thought I'd see if I could apply it to my guitar.

Let me know what you think of the results.

Rest in Peace Kyo Sa Nim Rory Davies 28th Oct 1995 - 13th March 2011

2011-03-13T15:34:00.000Z

KSN Rory passed away peacefully in his sleep last night. The world has lost an amazing and inspiring man.

I received the news that Rory has passed away during the night early this morning. At first, like so many people I expect, I felt numb. I can't come to terms with this tragic loss. However, I took some time out by myself for a few hours to think it all through.

Now I know Rory has thousands of friends who all wish him well and everyone's thoughts are with the family who have to deal with this loss. As a father myself I cannot comprehend losing a son.

So, after some time to think and feel I can honestly say that I feel relieved. Relieved that his struggle is over. Relieved that his suffering is over. Relieved that his battle has come to an end. I did my share of tears when we found out that the cancer had returned so this time I felt sort of...... numb.

I'm also relieved for Rory's family. They have closure and knowledge that although Rory only lived for 15 years - he gave them his all. He wasn't a couch potato or mean to his friends - he was outstanding and outgoing. A pleasure to know and an honour to be his friend.

For those who dont know I have been teaching Rory at kuk sool won since he was 5 years old. But having some time to think I can honestly say that Rory has taught me more in the last 18 months than I ever did him in 10 years.

He has taught us all how to live, how to love and how to be the best you can be, no matter what life deals you. How you maintain your sense of humour and buoyancy in life knowing you are also planning your own funeral is beyond my comprehension.

Rory has inspired so many people his memory will never be forgotten.

Rest in peace.

Helping others to help yourself

2011-03-07T15:10:00.000Z

I can honestly say that I've heard a lot of instructors at Lowestoft and Halesworth Kuk Sool Won schools talking about this subject.

I've found that by helping other students in Kuk Sool I've found more motivation for my own training. Seeing their desire to learn more has enhanced my own desire to push on and train harder, study longer and put even more effort into planning my classes.

I also remember JIKJN Martin saying that after the Black Belt grading on 27th February he was motivated to get training harder himself! Praise indeed.

May I take this opportunity to congratulate everyone who took part in the grading on 27th Feb as it was rather a tough but fair one! You all put in 110% and did yourselves and your instructors proud. Well done.

We have a coloured belt grading coming up at the end of this month and you can feel the buzz in the school as everyone is practising hard in classes ready to be tested.

I love kuk sool and I love the spring time coming with the sunny days and longer evenings it warms my soul that summer is coming and an end to the horrible dark cold winter.

We need more practice - Kuk Sool !!

Kilimanjaro Video Clip

2011-02-16T13:47:00.000Z

As I've previously posted in October last year Helen and a group of 30 intrepid adventurers took on the challenge of climbing mount kilimanjaro. This video clip is a short montage of their expedition.

The object was to raise funds for their local children's charities. Accompanied by a tour leader, expedition medic and a whole army of guides and porters the entire group made it to Gilmans Point (which is at the top but not the very top if that makes sense) and half went on to Uhuru Peak which is summit.

It was a fantastic achievement made by an incredible group of individuals who are now all firm friends. Congratulations to you all.

Back in the swing of things

2011-02-14T12:45:00.000Z

I'm now back in the swing of everything again. I went through a type of hibernation phase through December and January where everything seems such a hassle to do - even kuk sool training although I didn't miss any sessions - but now the sun is coming out more and the daylight is getting longer again I can feel my enthusiasm returning.

New goals have been set for 2011 and I'm all up for hitting them.

I've also fell in love with the guitar all over again having had about 6 months off it and I've just secured a new teacher who has his own music studio. Just reading his website has got me fired up to learn again. www.lowestoftguitar.co.uk

This all came about when I had a bit of a jam with a friend who doesn't play guitar. I was just helping them with a simple riff while I played over the top and it just all came flooding back.

Not only that, but my custom Les Paul is back from the paint shop and my goodness - it is amazing. I'll take some pictures to post on this blog once we get some sunshine at the weekend so you can the effect of it in the sun. I'm going to send a copy of the photo to the guitar mag I subscribe to see if they'll post it in - its THAT good! Plus it now matches the awesome paint job I've had done on my motorbike last year!

Things are all coming together nicely.

Kuk sool training is going great - we've made some great new friends with a couple who joined the KICKSTART programme and their enthusiasm for the art has my enthusiasm on overdrive and I'm really looking forward to helping them get their yellow belt in the summer.

As for my own training - I'm still going great guns, and really enjoying my new form Ssahng Bahng Cho Hyung (Ee) and the double long sword form.

My fitness levels are over and above what they were pre-xmas and I'm 7lb below my pre-xmas weight too. So its all progress at the moment and I don't intend to let the momentum drop!

KSN Rory Davies - an amazing boy with an amazing story

2011-02-01T15:17:00.001Z

What an amazing young man KSN Rory Davies is. This is a picture of Rory with us at the Kuk Sool Won Extravaganza last July during his fight with cancer. Rory has many tumours in his brain and spine and has endured more operations than most people go through in a lifetime.

Last month it was announced that he had won his fight against the deadly disease and we all celebrated his hard work and endurance. A feat which must have been harder than reaching his 2nd degree black belt.

Things most people don't realise is the long periods of solitude while treatment is underway that Rory can't be with his loved ones and friends. We all offered him the support he needed, but without physically being able to see him must have been hard on Rory.

Having taught Rory at Kuk Sool since he was 5 years old I have to say that a true highlight for me was seeing Rory get his 2nd degree black belt at the Kings Lynn European Championships in June 2010. He was still very ill and in a wheelchair. His dad Andy was pushing him towards our Grand Master Kuk Sa Nim In Huyh Suh, Rory asked his dad to stop. And despite being ill, despite the journey to Kings Lynn almost wiping out his energy alone, he got up out of the wheelchair and walked on his own two feet to get his certificate. This was all in front of a crowd of 2000 people. Some kuk sool students, some members of the public. All of whom took to their feet to give Rory a standing ovation at his struggle against cancer and a special speech made my Master Alex was very touching to round off this truly monumental moment. And what proof that Rory has an outstanding spirit and fighting his best against this disease.

For as long as I live I shall cherish that moment and be proud to have been one of Rory's instructors.
If you were there at the promotion ceremony that night - you know exactly what I mean, it was a truly emotional, but inspiring moment.

Last month, Rory came to our Kuk Sool class to tell us he is doing well and on the mend. His family, friends and supporters from all over were thrilled and inspired by this young mans determination.

It brings me to tears to inform you all that yesterday Rory has been re-admitted to Addenbrooks Hospital where they have informed him that the cancer has returned and that there is nothing more they can do for him.

How do you cope with such news? Because I for one am finding it extremely difficult. I can't imagine what Rory is feeling, nor can I imagine how his family and loved ones are coping. This is truly unfair and not deserving of such a miraculous person. How do you plan your own funeral when you're only in your mid-teens?

Rory - we are all with you, your Facebook page is full of well-wishers and positive messages for you to get well. If you pull through this - now that would be a miracle. Lets show them what true martial arts spirit is all about and fight this blasted thing!

We are with you every step of the way.

KUK SOOL !!!

(if you have any personal messages for Rory please leave your comments here and I will forward them to his facebook - or you can write directly on his facebook wall - look for Rory Davies)

KICKSTART Week 3

2011-01-31T08:52:00.000Z

Friday saw the third session in the Kick start programme and I have to say I was not looking forward to it. I did really well in week 2 and that put the pressure on to out perform again this week. I know the aim of the game is to show improvement week on week, but I was definitely feeling the pressure.

I didn't have my lovely wife training with me this week as she was in Jersey for the weekend so it was all self motivation this week.

I dug deep and managed to beat last weeks scores. Not on everything, some of the training exercises I did better, some were slightly worse and a lot were the same, but overall totals show that I did more. With only 1 more week to go I'm looking forward to seeing my final scores.

I'm certainly feeling fitter, my body aches (in a good way) so it shows I've been training hard and I'm really enjoying the time afterwards to work with the black belts on the more technical detail of forms, weapons and self defence techniques.

I did and I hurt!

2011-01-25T09:44:00.000Z

Following on from my last post I Can I Will, I have been applying these principles and I've lost another 1lb over this weekend so things are going well.

But... Last nights Kuk Sool class was a tough one. We are going back to traditional training on Monday nights and to describe what we did wont impress you to explain how exhausted I was.

Here's what happened:

We were doing every set of techniques with full take downs - no big deal. In between each set of techniques we had to do 10 push ups, 10 sit ups, 10 squat thrusts and 10 squats with our partners.

No different to any black belt grading we've had over the years. I think the thing that made it so difficult was the pace. Master Martin was calling the numbers really quickly and then we were banging out push ups etc without a moments breather. I feel fit and healthy of late and feel like I can take a beasting class, but last night I hit a real low.

I ran out of steam completely, I was just waiting for that burst of the second wind as we call it, which is totally euphoric when it comes, but it didn't come last night and I just got more and more deflated. My partner SBN Dave was going great guns all evening until we were given a water break and then he went really queezy and I thought he was going to puke on the mat. He is super fit so that goes to show that it wasn't just me being a wuss. But then he got his second wind and annilated me! Almost literally when he caught me with an awesome blow to the solar plexus with his elbow and knocked me to the ground. There was still no stopping for a breather (despite not being able to breath in properly from the blow for a minute or two) we had to press on.

Some of the more youthful black belts were powering through the session and I started to feel really old. I started to question whether I should have eaten more during the day as only had a salad sandwich at lunch time and that was all. But my wife PSBN Helen and her partner KSN Helen also did a fabulous job and were smiling away and cheering me on.

It didn't cheer me I can tell you :o) Normally I like a bit of encouragement when I'm flaking, but I literally had nothing left. We continued like this to the end of the class and I have to say I was glad it was over.

I've got to work more on my fitness and stamina because I could have easily powered through that any other time, I wonder if it was just an 'off day' ?

We'll soon find out how my scores fair on Friday with the 3rd Kick Start class.

I Can, I Will

2011-01-19T13:53:00.000Z

As part of the KICKSTART programme (see previous post) we are being encouraged to adopt a positive mindset. This helps me a lot and I've used these techniques loads in the past with great results. So why is it that I forget to do it as the months go on??? Usually because I don't reset goals after I achieve them and like the calm feeling of the aftermath of achieving a goal.

I have decided to adopt the "I can I will" approach to things that are holding me back and I pleased to report that I am making some positive changes in my life. Some quite significant, but as it is early stages, I will leave you in suspense until I can report more.

In addition I have decided I'd like to lose 14lb to achieve what I call "my most optimal weight" where I look good and still have strength and a strong immune system. Last year I lost too much weight and became ill and weak because of it - even if I did drop 2 sizes in my trousers it wasn't worth it for how I felt.

So, since Friday 14th last week I have managed to drop 3lb so that leaves 11lb to go. Simples !

Kick Start 2011 with 6th Degree Master Martin Ducker

2011-01-17T14:23:00.000Z

I've been looking forward to getting back into training again after the break for Christmas and New Year. 3 weeks was a lovely break to rejouvenate my body and for all the aches to subside and to just kick back and relax.

I really needed it too, it seems 2010 was a hectic year for both Helen and myself. Now I'm all rested up, fat and lazy I'm ready to KICK START 2011. And what better way than with Master Martin's Kick Start programme.

We had the first session of the kick start programme on Friday 14th Jan. There are 3 more weeks left if you want to come along and join in make sure you hurry as the whole 4 week programme is free!

We did a set of simple (yet tiring) exercises to see how many of each we could do in a minute. We worked with a partner and took turns to do the exercises while the other did the counting and motivating. It was great fun and great to see so many new people in attendance. After all the programme is designed for beginners but Master Martin vamped it up a bit for the blackbelts so we could also get something out of it.

I loved it. It felt great to be working out again and sweating again. I for one am really looking forward to next friday. Its really difficult to motivate yourself to work out really hard and beyond your comfort zone, but with a class of students and your wife as your partner you want to go that extra mile and burn off that extra mince pie I knew I shouldn't have eaten :o)

I look forward to seeing how my numbers improve over the 4 week programme.

On top of this I'm now back on form with my food regime. I was careful over xmas and only gained 2lb which I lost before new year, but over the course of 2010 I have gained more pounds than I care to admit and as SBN Dave hasn't noticed and isn't giving me a hard time about it I'm going to keep it that way and manage the reduction on my own.

I know what to do and how to do it as I proved that last year when I lost 25lb by switching to an alkaline diet. This time I intend to do the same but with a better balance to it as last time I got really weak.

I'll keep you posted on my progress.

Stripping the Les Paul

2010-12-21T09:18:00.000Z

This is the guitar at stage 1 so I remember how to put it all back together once it has been painted.

Stage 2 below has the strings, bridge and supports removed

Stage 3 below has the humbucker pickups removed (retaining hard wiring), scratch plate and strap retainers removed.

Project Les Paul Custom

2010-12-16T17:12:00.001Z

I'm now starting a project to customise my Stagg Les Paul guitar. Earlier this year a great friend provided me with some paint to customise my motorbike. I've got some left over and wanted to make my guitar look as smart as my bike.

Tonight I will start the process of taking the guitar apart and removing the gold hardware so it wont get painted black in the process and I hope to get it all complete before the year end hopefully.

I'll take some pictures before, during and after so you can see the transformation. I'm rather excited about it.

Snow in November???

2010-11-29T11:54:00.000Z

As many of you know I dislike the winter because it means I have to use the car to get to work instead of the motorbike. This means instead of taking 45 minutes to get to work it takes 90 minutes.

Add snow into the equation and it can take anything up to 3 hours to get to work which is the longest it has taken. Today it was 2.5 hours. So frustrating and so many accidents because people get impatient and do all manner of crazy stunts!

There was a Vauxhall Corsa in Gorleston that had bashed into the railings and the front of the car was facing the sky like a rocket about to take off. It was just balanced there on the boot. Very strange. Then there was an Aston Martin DB9 in the ditch on the Acle Straight. Its bonnet was completely covered in water, the hazard lights blinking miserably as the battery was about to die. Why would you take an Aston Martin out in the snow with all that power and rear wheel drive? By definition, if you have enough money for an Aston Martin, you have enough for a spare car to run around in. And there was a small white car facing the oncoming traffic on a roundabout where it had spun around.

And that was just my journey to work. On the radio they were annoucing road closures due to upturned lorries, multiple car pile ups and vehicles that can't get up the hills! We are pathetic when it comes to snow.

This is the view of our road at 6am today before the snow really started coming down.

Maintaining Control while doing techniques

2010-11-04T11:50:00.000Z

I have been studying the importance of controlling your partner when doing techniques at Kuk Sool Won classes.

You won't win many friends or inspire confidence in your partner if you are too rough and constantly hurt your partner during techniques. When asked to find a partner you may find you are left on your own. Not everyone is lucky enough to have the same partner every time that you build a working relationship with - and if your instructors are like me I always get you to swap and work with someone new anyway! This builds new friendships with someone you may not have trained with before and takes you out of your comfort zone of training with a regular partner.

So how do you find the balance between making your techniques effective enough to know that they would definitely work for you if you needed them, but at the same time install confidence in your partner that you are in control and not going to injure them?

The answer is two fold. Communication and Practice. The two can be addressed separately and combined as follows:

Communication

Talk to your partner. Tell them that you want to practice your techniques properly but you are conscious about their safety. This will automatically remove barriers between you and assure them that you care. AS the saying goes: "Nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care"

Tell them to tell you if the technique is not effective so you can adjust it to make it work. If you are having difficulty ask your instructor for assistance.

Practice

Practice makes perfect and we all need more practice! Learn to 'feel' when your partner's joints are locking so you know when to stop to prevent injury. Then quickly apply the joint locks or pressure points through memory. Every person is different and their joints and flexibility are different so you have to adjust accordingly. When your partner taps - pay attention and do them the respect of easing their discomfort. This way they will allow you to perform the technique again.

If you do not heed their warnings they will not gain respect for you and will not be so keen to be your partner in the future. Likewise - there are students who will tap out before you have applied the technique which can be frustrating if you are trying to make your techniques work - rather than ignore their tap we use the 3 tap rule. One tap is just a warning that the technique is becoming effective. 2 more quick taps usually follow when the limit of durability is reached.

If you feel your partner is "faking it" as to avoid injury (or they may have been with a partner who does not exert control in the past) then use communication. Talk to them and explain you are not going to over stretch their joints or apply unnecessary pressure to their pressure points and build up trust with the partner.

Communication and Practice

By combining the two elements you should build a trust and friendship with your partner that will last not just years - but a lifetime. You will become a person that people want to partner with for techniques which can only be a good thing.

When it comes to performing the technique with a take-down or throw involved use communication and practice to talk your partner through what you are going to do and how you are going to do it. Likewise - as the receiving partner you will want to talk about your concerns - how to land, which break-fall is involved etc. Between you both you will build a great foundation for techniques practice safely and confidently.

The point of all this? What if you need to use a technique in a real self defence situation and you have never practiced it properly and it fails you? It defeats the whole point of training in the first place.

Now go practice!

The final evening run of 2010

2010-11-03T11:19:00.000Z

On Wednesday I did my last run in the evening of the year. Now that the clocks have gone back an hour it is pitch black dark before I leave work let alone by the time I get home and changed ready for a run.

So, I decided to enjoy the last evening run of the year. The weather was really mild at 12 degrees and the sun was setting. I took my camera and took these pictures as I ran around the fields near my home.

It was so quiet and beautiful, despite exercising, I felt so at peace that evening. I was also excited that Helen would be returning home from Africa the next day and that our time apart was coming to an end.

See what you think of the pictures, they dont really do the colours justice as the sun was setting over the trees.

Just after I got home it started to rain really hard so I was very fortunate I didn't get soaked

Helen at the top

2010-11-02T09:01:00.000Z

Now that Helen is safe at home it has been really enjoyable hearing about her escapades climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

She says it is the hardest thing she has ever done and is not keen on doing it again!!

I am so proud of her and what she has achieved, plus all the money we have raised for charity makes it all worthwhile.

Here are pictures of Helen with the other 2 people from Lowestoft - Charlotte and Adam. Well done to all 3 of you.

Out of the 32 people in Helen's group - only 15 made it to the very top which goes to show its not a walk in the park!

Helen ready for the final push

2010-10-21T16:12:00.000+01:00

Helen has just reached the 2nd and final camp on Mount Kilimanjaro. 7 hours climb today and its been tough but she is doing ok. Its cold and raining at the current camp.

I have been the most worried today, becuase I thought if Helen was going to get altitude sickness then it would hit today. I'm so pleased and proud of her that she has done so well.

Tomorrow is the big push to get to the top and then back to the camp she is at now. Its a long day as they start at midnight to get to the summit to watch the sun rise from the top of the mountain, take tons of pickies and then back to the camp.

The temperature at the top is minus 35 degrees with the wind chill and we thought we were hard done by having to scrape the car this morning!

Helen gets to the first camp

2010-10-21T08:56:00.000+01:00

Yesterday evening Helen and the crew made it to the first camp on the mountain. They started at 10am and arrived at 7pm. Helen says its tougher than she thought for the first stint and that her bag is really heavy!!

I feel for the porters who carry all the really heavy stuff up. I hope Helen has got a picture of that. These guys really earn their chips. Not only are they carrying the heavy equipment from each of the people on the trek but they carry all the food and supplies too. I wonder if they balance it all on their heads?

Below is a picture of Team Lowestoft (left to right: Charlotte O'Mahoney, Adam Herrington and Helen) taken at Heathrow Airport on 16th October. That was the last time I saw Helen, I am missing her like crazy but I know she is having the time of her life and a wonderful experience.

The last text I got from her was to say that it was 7pm and she was sitting outside at the camp listening to monkeys!

Improving instructor qualities

2010-10-19T14:23:00.001+01:00

A while ago at an Instructors Meeting I decided I would like to improve my teaching ability and become a better instructor. I have been feeling 'stale' in my teaching and as such my classes have become stale.

Since then I have been looking into self help books, audio cassettes and online information. I am pleased with what I've found out so far and I think its fair to say my classes are improving.

By no means am I where I want to be, but I feel like I am taking steps in the right direction now. One of the best mentors and examples of quality instruction is to follow my own instructors Masters Martin and Alison Ducker and I feel honoured to be associated with such top quality tuition.

A few bullet points I've made for myself after my research and conversations with instructors so far are:

When it comes to teaching, there is no problem that is unique to you;
Even though your responsibilities increase when you become an instructor, you lose some of the rights or freedoms you may have enjoyed in the past;
A true instructor spends his time fixing the problem instead of finding who to blame;
When you write things down, you commit to doing them; if you simply say or just think what you want to do, there is really no commitment to getting it done;
people quit people before they quit martial arts associations;
take the time to have quality communication with your instructor, as well as your assistant instructors,
one of the main things to eliminate is confusion, explain clearly what you want your students/assistant instructors to do;
doing the right thing isn't always easy - in fact its really difficult, but just remember that doing the right thing is always right;
everything you do matters, because your students are always watching;
guard your integrity as if its your most valuable possession, because that is what it is;
never lower your standards to get new students, you will pay for it later;
one of the main sources of stress, anxiety and unhappiness comes from the feeling that your life is out of control;
for you to be your very best, you cannot allow yourself to become complacent in your comfort zone. You need to be reaching for improvement;
so much of life is about attitude and how we handle what life throws our way. Life is good, even when a situation appears to be the worst;

I'm sure there are hundreds of bullets we could add to this list and this is by no means in any particular order. I'm just happy to be learning and trying to improve myself.

More on this subject next month.

Helen Arrives at Moshi Village - Tanzania

2010-10-18T13:22:00.000+01:00

Helen arrived safely at Moshi Village on Sunday at midday. Temperature at 35 degrees and hot hot hot. Considering she was really tired as she got on the plane at Heath row at 7pm I thought Helen would get some sleep on the way to make the journey shorter.

Alas, no. Helen said the plane was far too hot and noisy. This comes from a girl who has a blanket on her legs in the summer evenings let alone the winter and she took ear plugs with her and an ipod.

I haven't received many texts from Helen so far, but I know she arrived safely and went to bed at 9pm Tanzania time (7pm our time) having been up for so long she was shattered.

The volunteer work starts today in Moshi Village school. As soon as I hear more I'll post an update.....

Tanzanian School Classroom

(picture may be subject to copyright)

Helen's Last Day before going to Africa

2010-10-15T11:05:00.000+01:00

This is it. Helen's last 24 hours before heading off Tanzania in Africa to volunteer at a local school and then to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.

I should be receiving regular updates from Helen during the trek so I can update everyone on this blog as I get the updates.

Helen is loaded up with equipment and enough layers to deal with the minus 35 temperature at the top! Yet lots of cool clothes for the 35 degrees it is at the bottom and in the school at Moshi Villiage. Even so, there is enough room for a digital camera and a video camera. I hope to post a few 'best of' pictures when she gets back. The video camera is for dialy diaries and anything else Helen wants to film.

We opted for the additional Safari Package which was an extra £500 but well worth it as Helen gets a full 3 day safari after decending the mountain climb. I hope there will be some good camera footage of animals live in their own habitat.

Watch out for further updates starting this weekend....

Riding with a dazzling low sun

2010-10-12T16:18:00.001+01:00

It's time to take care this winter when riding with a low sun. When the sun is behind you, you have a very clear view of the road ahead for miles. However, there is still danger. Why? You are completely invisible to oncoming traffic.

If you are riding on a single carriageway, and you are filtering past traffic, bear in mind that the oncoming traffic cannot see you at all - even with your headlight on. Don't presume that because your view is clear that theirs is too. This is not the case.

You can see the drivers of cars with their sun visors down in the car desperately squinting to see ahead. They aren't even looking for a motorcycle, they are just trying to keep their vehicle on the road.

Be extra careful of drivers waiting to pull out of side streets - a clear indication that they cannot see you is that they are using their hand to shade their eyes in a kind of "salute". It is unlikely that they will see you or your bike with its headlight on! And if you flash your high beam to make yourself more visible it will likely be taken as a signal to pull out causing you more danger.

Alternatively, if you are riding into a low sun be extra careful as visibility is reduced to almost zero. Slow down! Try a tinted visor, or if you are worried about the authorities wear sunglasses in your helmet. There are many brands of shades that are designed to be squeezed into a bash hat. I have used Level One Eye wear with spring loaded arms which makes them really easy to get into your crash hat without causing them to break or cause you any discomfort.

picture may be subject to copyright

I tend not to use a tinted visor on my commute to work in the winter because I would need it in the morning, but on the way home its dark which means the visor is useless and illegal, so I'd have to carry the clear one with me - just too much of a faff for me! It wont be long before its dark on the way to work as well as on the way home so that rules out the dark visor anyway.

Ride safe. Keep it shiny side up!

Love the art you are in

2010-10-08T11:43:00.002+01:00

I'm not one to waste time on martial art forums and the like, listening to people who don't seem to know or care too much about any one particular martial art and always seem keen to give their opinion of the art you love.

This in turn generates negativity in yourself and you feel you need to defend your art by replying and so the twists and turns start.

I say "Love the art you are in". If you do a martial art - fantastic. Well done. So few people embark upon the wonderful journey of self discovery, motivation and self discipline. Enjoy it. Give it your best and you will get the best from it.

Don't waste time nay saying other martial art styles - that's so back in the 1970's with the old martial art movies "My kung fu is better than yours" lark in which a well choreographed fight ensues for our viewing pleasure.

Lets move on and get stuck into what we know and what we are studying. I've looked at other martial arts before I started Kuk Sool Won and I made my decision and I know I made the right one. Kuk Sool rocks. I love everything about it. Even after 17 years I still love it. As much now as I did as a new white belt. I still feel the sense of achievement and I love to see the achievement of others that I teach too.

I don't give negative feedback about other martial arts - we are all different, we want different things, that's why there are so many different martial art clubs on offer, go find one you like and give it a go. Nearly all offer a free introduction.

If you're looking into starting or changing your martial art then here is the best advice I can give, it is the same advice that was given to me 17 years ago by Master Martin Ducker:

Get a free lesson to see if you like the art
Make sure you like and get on with the instructor. (This is extremely important)
Make sure the class times are suitable for you
Make sure the instructors are as keen to teach you as you are to learn.

Lets not nay say each others martial art, its 2010 and time for equality, peace and meditation. Love the art you are in, devote yourself to it and one day it may become a part of your life that you cherish dearly.

Kilimanjaro Trek getting closer....

2010-10-04T15:20:00.000+01:00

As you can see from the countdown timer on this blog that its less than 2 weeks now until Helen treks off to Tanzania to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.

I keep asking if she is excited and nervous about the upcoming challenge and the response is always the same: "yes and yes, but I need to get packing". Well now that the packing is complete, Helen can focus on her last bit of training and be ready for the challenge.

The beach radio are going to be covering the event with a daily phone call to the team to hear how they are doing, so I'll keep an ear out for that to see if Helen gets on the show.

Either way Helen is taking a camera with her with lots of batteries to take pictures and a video camera to do a daily diary so I can hopefully share in her experience when she returns home.

I dont want Helen to come home and I say "how was it" all enthusiastically to find out about each day, the trials and pitfalls only for Helen to respond "Yeah it was good" !! I want details! You know what she's like!!

My First Bonsai

2010-10-04T10:53:00.000+01:00

For a long time now I've been going on about having my own Bonsai tree. I've always liked them and wanted one of my own. Well, as a brilliant surprise Helen got me one at the weekend and I'm really pleased with it.

Now I've got to learn how to look after them. The tag that came with it says water lots in the summer and moderately in the winter. Keep it in the light and prune as necessary.

Surely it can't be as simple as that?? Anyone got any tips for looking after a bonsai tree? I'm now looking online for a book.

September Gradings 25th & 26th

2010-09-27T15:12:00.000+01:00

This weekend we had our Kuk Sool Won Gradings and I have to say that I was impressed with everyone's effort !

All the gradings were tough. Physically demanding as well as mentally challenging. None of you quit, you all give it 110% you did yourselves and your instructors proud.

Well done.

Lets see what the results are later this week!!

Guitar Lessons Re-start

2010-09-16T14:16:00.000+01:00

I realise I haven't written a post about playing the guitar for about a year now, and thats well, because I've been kind of pre-occupied with all the fund raising ideas for Helen to climb mount kilimanjaro.

The collection of guitars has grown and I got them up on the wall which is nice. I've been getting a few lessons with a new teacher and this has re inspired me to start playing again. Im learning new songs and new techniques which is brilliant, but I still can't do Barre Chords. They are driving me crazy so I have made it my goal to crack this by the end of the year.

I'm going to make sure I practice everyday so that I can open up many more songs that I'd like to play but can't because I can't bend my arm/wrist enough to reach the notes properly.

You'd think with all the kuk sool training I've had my wrists and arms would be strong enough, but no, it hurts. But then, I remember my finger tips used to hurt like crazy when I first started playing the guitar, so maybe this pain in my arm will pass with time and practice also.

Can anyone offer any tips to help me be able to play Barre Chords?

Assistant Master Training

2010-08-23T11:29:00.000+01:00

Its been a while since I posted about Kuk Sool Won and I apologise for those waiting to hear how things have been going since I promoted to Sa Bum Nim (Assistant Master) 4th Degree Black Belt.

Truth is - its like the famous story of "chop wood, carry water". In order to progress and keep training, I have to keep training!

Classes have been really enjoyable over the summer and the whole school has got its buzz back - even though numbers are down during this holiday season. Last week I started learning new material towards my 5th Degree Level Pyung Kwahn Jahng Nim (Master Level) and its very exciting to be learning new material again.

I've started:

Double Long Sword Form
This is much more difficult than it looks! I'm guilty of not practicing the regular sword forms with my left hand, so now this is taking its toll and I'm going to be working on this a lot over the coming months to improve my left hand dexterity.

Ssahng Bahng Cho Hyung Ee
The second part to this very long and complex form. This is really enjoyable to perform as well as watch. I've done the first dozen moves or so and its very demanding on the legs!!

I also learned some new self defence techniques which look really complicated - but fun!!

I'm totally refreshed and really looking forward to learning and perfecting new material. I dont have to worry about a grading for a couple of years so that gives me time to save for the grading fee and my new Master's Uniform !!

Making beer at home again

2010-08-17T16:55:00.001+01:00

I haven't made any homebrew beer for months, so it was nice to get a fresh batch on the go at the weekend.
I found this "Beer Prayer" on the internet which made me smile.

Our lager,

Which art in barrels,

Hallowed be thy drink.

Thy will be drunk, (I will be drunk),

At home as it is in the pub.

Give us this day our foamy head,

And forgive us our spillage's,

As we forgive those who spill against us.

And lead us not to incarceration,

But deliver us from hangovers.

For thine is The Beer, The bitter, The lager.

BARMEN

The Triumph Daytona is for sale

2010-08-12T17:21:00.000+01:00

I am selling my wife's P Registered 1997 Triumph Daytona T595 (955cc) as she has now got a new bike and I just dont have enough room for them all!

This is an awesome machine that rides fantastically and the sound is amazing from that triple engine. This bike is in really good condition for its age and it is only down to lack of space that I'm selling it as I love to ride it myself. Runs perfectly, starts first time, everything works as it should, no clunky gear changes, no starter motor issues, no electrical issues. Extremely quick bike which looks and sounds amazing. Even though it is not as new and fancy as the latest sports bike its still a head turner at the bike meetings we go to.

You can see from the pictures that it is in great condition. There are a two marks on the bike - I have taken pictures of these to show - one is on the left side of the petrol tank. As the tank is plastic these will not rust and was like this when we bought the bike. We haven't done anything about it at this time. The other is hard to spot and is on the left side just under the rear seat cowl. I have taken a close up picture of this. Any other "white" marks on the paint in any other pictures is only reflection from the flash on my camera. All documentation will be included in the sale.

The Details:

• 12 months full MOT (Valid until 19th August 2011)

• 12 months Tax (valid until end July 2011)

• 2 brand new tyres (pirelli diablo corsa) done less than 100 miles

• Major service completed at 24,000 miles New Oil, new oil Filter, New air filter, new Spark Plugs, Shims checked and valvle clearances checked, (currently done just under 26,000) so next service not due until 30,000 and will only be a minor service.

• Bike is ready to be ridden away

• Starts first time every time and has never let us down.

• Comes with genuine Triumph high level carbon fibre exhaust (with removable baffle) which sounds amazing.

Included in the sale is the following:

• 2 sets of keys

• Wallet full of Log book (V5) and all documents that I have for it including receipts etc.

• Datatag certificates and literature

• Original owners manual

• Haynes Manual.

• Standard exhaust (also in good condition)

• Rear Seat

• Grab rail

• Pillon foot rests

£1800 for the lot

For details contact me using the link on this blog

Summer Biking with Mrs Denny and Mr Dredge

2010-08-11T16:41:00.000+01:00

Here we are parked up in Cromer on the north Norfolk coast. A long day's riding and ready for a cuppa and something to eat. I was pleased to see the blackbird's paint job was drawing a lot of positive reactions from the crowds with many stopping to look as the sun blazed down on it.

Mrs Denny looking very pleased with her new bike. She is riding really well and this bike is boosting her confidence daily. So much so she's even hassling me to go out for rides now!! Whatever next?

Better view of the Suzuki SV650. As you can see its in excellent condition.

And finally.... The blackbird blinging it up in the sunlight.

helens new bike

2010-08-07T22:57:00.002+01:00

After riding the daytona helen hasn't been getting on with it very well. So we looked into getting a Suzuki sv650 a friend is selling his so we jumped at the chance. Check out the happy face after her first test ride!

Which means the daytona is now up for sale once I get a new MOT on it!

Project Blackbird - rebuilt

2010-08-03T14:41:00.000+01:00

On Sunday 25th July I completed the rebuilding of the bike and took it out for a spin. I still need to get the decals for it. Not sure whether to go for originals in Chrome Silver or have some custom made??? What do you think?

The Nose Cone now in place. At this point I'm hoping all the wires Ive reconnected work because getting to them again is a real faff and a lot of work!

The mudguard is on and you can see the rainbow effect starting even in the garage light.

Outside you can really see the effect now.

In the shade, the bike still looks black - and this is before I'd cleaned it and applied the polish. (Cant put the polish on until the decals are done or they wont stick)

The finished effect (without the decals of course)

What do you think?

Me - I'm thrilled to bits with it.

The new paint job

2010-08-03T14:34:00.000+01:00

The effect is called Spectra-Flash.

Using the stock black as a base coat the Spectra-Flash milled metal flakes are sprayed on to give a rainbow effect when the light reflects off it. When there is no direct light the bike looks black.

Its a flipping awesome effect

Not to everyones taste, but when you see it in the flesh as it were its amazing.

Project Blackbird - Stripping it down

2010-08-03T14:15:00.000+01:00

Having never done any mechanical DIY before I thought I'd bitten off more than I could chew when I chose to repair the blackbird after my little spill in March this year. (See posts in March for pictures)

These are the evidence that I can take a bike apart.

Putting one back together again without any left over bits - now THATS the hard part

Notice how I've labelled up all the wires so I know where they go when I put the front back on.

Feeling chuffed with myself while I wait for the fairings and tank to be painted.

The secret inside Daleks

2010-08-03T13:45:00.000+01:00

is me !

What a great laugh I had driving this Dalek about at the Meadow Primary School Fete.

Summer 2010

2010-07-30T13:53:00.000+01:00

I love summer time. I love the sun, the warm weather, the mood of people always improves in the summer. Its a very positive time of year.

Its in the summer that my posts on this blog are far apart because I'm busy doing stuff I love. I love the fact that it is light until 9pm so there is more daylight to enjoy after work.

This year is particularly good because Helen has passed her bike test and now we go out for rides together. She is doing great considering her first bike is a Triumph Daytona 955cc Fuel Injection speed machine! I remember when I first passed my test and many will tell you I rode like Mary Poppins. (It took me years to shake that name off thank you SBN David!!)

So I really appreciate what Helen is going through getting used to riding a sports bike after her lessons on a basic 500cc bike.

As you can see from the grin on her face she's totally enjoying it.

(Just for the record - she wears the proper bike gear for riding - not what is shown in the picture)

I'm amazed that Helen decided to ride after all these years of being pillion I guess she's just had enough and wants to enjoy the riding experience properly. We're now planning bike holidays together for the rest of our limited summer time left. Ye har!

Happy Anniversary

2010-07-12T15:05:00.000+01:00

Today marks our Anniversary. I am very much in love with my wife, more so today than when we first said "I do" 7 years ago!

Here's to many more happy years ahead. I've included a few pics of our highlights over the last 7 years - there are too many to put them all on but these are the ones that make us smile

Beautiful views and beautiful wife 7am

Me stuffing my face with garlic bread and Helen with an invisible bottle of wine!!

Top of a small mountain in Orba Spain 2008

Custard Cream anyone? Can you imagine the size of the cup of tea required to dip that bad boy?

Team Denny 2010 with the Grand Master

July 12th 2003 2:30pm

July 12th 2003 9pm

To my darling wife

I love you more today

than I did yesterday

but not as much

as I love you tomorrow

I am so lucky to have you as my wife

and proud to be your husband.

Helen Passes her motorbike test today

2010-07-09T12:50:00.000+01:00

So, this morning Helen has passed her motorbike test and she has just been out for a ride on her bike pictured above.

I'm really pleased for her and this is certainly going to be the start of a new direction in our lives now that we can go out riding together.

Our first ride is planned for Sunday !! Watch out boys - there's a new hotness on the road... and she's quick!!

Project Blackbird - Exhausts

2010-07-06T13:52:00.000+01:00

So here are the Pipewerx Cans in situ. Even with the baffles in they sound terrific and what a great price!! Only £280 for the pair including link pipes, hanging brackets and baffles.

Both of these exhausts weigh less than one of the originals!

I particualarly like the 'X's on the baffles because the blackbird is a CBR1100XX

Kuk Sool Won Black Belt Extravaganza

2010-07-05T14:23:00.000+01:00

What an awesome evening and thank you to all who took part in this demonstration.
I would like to extend a special thank you to everyone that helped organise this massive event.

We were fortunate to have many VIP guests including the Mayor of Lowestoft and many of his councillors, The Beach Bunny, The Lowestoft Journal, Masters Martin & Alison Ducker, Guest Master Darren Brown and Special Guest of Honour - Kyo Sa Nim Rory Davies.

You may have seen KSN Rory on the front page of the Lowestoft Journal this week. If not, here is the link..

http://www.lowestoftjournal.co.uk/content/lowestoftjournal/news/story.aspx?brand=LOWOnline&category=NEWS&tBrand=lowonline&tCategory=news&itemid=NOED02%20Jul%202010%2010%3A28%3A58%3A490

Here's Psbn Helen with the Beach Bunny. He did a great job giving the children a high five for passing their recent grading and even put in a martial arts performance himself!! Great job Beach Bunny!! You were a lot of fun and you are certainly welcome back anytime.

As soon as they're ready I'll post some pictures of the Extravaganza.

Project Blackbird

2010-06-29T10:01:00.000+01:00

Earlier this year - with the help of a friend I have decided to tidy up the blackbird after my spill in march. I was going to just leave it with the parts that are scuffed and scraped. It passed an MOT recently so that was going to be the end of it as far as I was concerned.

However, my friend is very knowledgeable about paint work and has managed to persuade me to put the blackbird back to its former glory. This then started a snowball in motion....

If we're putting it back to former glory - why not improve it somewhat as we go??

I've already started with the gold wheels (see previous posts on these) now I've got new fairings for it, and some new black paint - with a subtle difference, and I've put on new exhausts for it. Thanks to Pipewerx for the cans they sound incredible and totally road legal.

I'll be uploading pictures as I go so you can enjoy the journey of restoring the blackbird back to its former glory - and then improving it !!

KUK SOOL WON Extravaganza Poster - Final Version

2010-06-17T09:06:00.001+01:00

Let me know what you think? Personally, I think we are really lucky to have Apparition Marketing and Design on board to do the artwork. Thank you SBN Rachel, and KJN Martin - you are stars!!

For more information about Apparition Marketing and Design please go to http://www.apparitiondesigns.co.uk/

Extravaganza Poster - Nice eh?

2010-06-16T12:44:00.000+01:00

Kuk Sool Won Black Belt Extravaganza

2010-06-16T12:04:00.000+01:00

In October 2010 PSBN Helen Denny is going to climb Mount Kilimanjaro to raise money for local children's charity "Help an East Coast Child". In order to take part in the mountain climb a team of volunteers organised by The Beach Radio have to raise £3500 each for the charity.

e have already raised £1000 through various ventures but our main event is going to be a Black Belt Extravaganza on Saturday 3rd July 7:30pm - 9:30pm at the Waveney Sports & Leisure Centre in Lowestoft. Tickets £5 Adults, £2.50 Children (13 and under)

We are inviting anyone who would like to come and watch this exciting demonstration.

The Beach Radio will also be in attendance, as is the Lord Mayor of Lowestoft, our new MP Peter Aldous and the Beach Bunny!! There will be over 100 students taking part in the demonstration. Look out for the articles in The Lowestoft Journal and promotions on The Beach Radio.

We are very excited to be able to put on this demonstration and raise money for such a good cause, however we do need your help. As part of the evening we are putting on a raffle and wanted to know if you or your company / business / employer could donate any raffle prizes for the event or offer sponsorship? Any donations will receive recognition on the evening and we thank you in advance for any assistance you can offer.

To donate either contact us or donate online at:

www.justgiving.com/helen-denny17

Achieving Sa Bum Nim Level (4th Degree Black Belt)

2010-06-08T12:29:00.001+01:00

What a brilliant week it has been for me and my family. On Wednesday 2nd June we had the Kuk Sool Won Super Seminar in our home town (see previous post). On Friday 4th June I completed my final test for the Sa Bum Nim Level. Yes KJN it was easy! ha ha.

I put that down to the hard training that I have put in, plus all the hard work you and KJN Ali have done into getting me ready for this monumental moment in my life. Also testing at the same time was Helen and Luke. Helen has 1 more year to go before she will be ready to promote to 4th Degree Black Belt. Luke was taking part in his first test for 2nd degree black belt. I love the fact that we are a black belt family and can share our experiences together as we progress through the ranks.

The only downside to having us all practice kuk sool won and all of us being in the demonstration etc is that there was no one available to take a picture of my promotion, but thats not a problem, I think some of the other black belts and their families have got shots of the occasion somewhere. If I get hold of them I'll post them on the blog.

I thoroughly enjoyed the Masters Demonstration this year as we were playing host to Korean TV station and web based internet newspaper too. It was a special occasion for me, as well as a special occasion for Kuk Sool Won.

May I wish a special congratulations to everyone who promoted to their next rank and I look forward to training with you to the next level. Ye Har!

Below is a picture of myself and newly promoted Jyo Kyo Nim Andy Hemmings (http://www.bluemoonblog.co.uk/) after the promotion ceremony and Masters Demonstration.

A special note to JKN Andy - I am proud to have played a part in what has been the wonderful journey you have had through the trials and triumphs of obtaining your Kuk Sool Won Black Belt.

Kuk Sool Seminar - June 2010

2010-06-03T10:30:00.001+01:00

Yesterday we had the Kuk Sool Won Seminar at our home town in Lowestoft. It is always a great honour to host the seminar at our own school and to have Kuk Sa Nim our Grandmaster attend with the Senior Masters.

I love training with Master Sung Jin and Master Alex and this Seminar was no exception. We learned about applying self defence techniques with fast hands and accurate striking and the importance of making controlled contact. My arms are aching today for it thats for sure, but it was brilliant and I really enjoyed it.

I had a moment where Master Sung Jin started to show us a new technique, 3 hand strikes before applying a self defence technique - and I recognised the movements from his "Fast Hands Form" and I thought we were going to be taught some of that form!! I was very excited but alas it wasn't that, but only a small part of it to develop the self defence technique.

Following that we moved on to the biomechanics of kicking and man, that was tough, but my legs are ok today, its just my arms that are killing me.

Nevermind, it was awesome and I really enjoyed it. I've got today to heal up because tomorrow is my final 4th Degree black belt testing!! Woo Hoo!!

Final Test for 4th Degree Black Belt Tomorrow

2010-06-03T10:00:00.001+01:00

This is it! My final test for Sa Bum Nim (4th Degree Black Belt) is tomorrow in Kings Lynn. I'm very excited about it and know I'm going to be able to give it my best. My ankle is fully healed now and I have no ailments to make the grading difficult so I can give it my absolute best.

I've been practicing like crazy and I am confident with all my material. I've especially been working on techniques and I can recall all 460+ of them within 1-2 seconds 99% of the time now in any random order which I'm really pleased with.

Ive also been improving my weapons forms as they started to get stale and I didn't realise I was making making mistakes because muscle memory was doing the same routine without improvement.

Thank you to Master's Martin & Ali Ducker for your continuous support and encouragement. I really feel like I am getting somewhere now and I feel ready for the challenge that is Sa Bum Nim Level.

How much do you love your martial art?

2010-05-25T14:49:00.001+01:00

I had an interesting conversation with PKJN Alison Ducker last night at our Kuk Sool Won class. We were talking about Kuk Sool in general and then what it must be like to decide to leave, going through the thought process and following through with the decision to leave.

PKJN Ali said to me "What would you do PSBN, if I told you you can't do Kuk Sool anymore"?

I have to say the question hit me hard. I went all cold inside - like a fear, a worrying fear. No more kuk sool in my life. I dont like the sound of that. I've been practicing kuk sool as long as I've been an adult and I can't ever imagine a day without it. Its so much a part of my life now that I think of it as my main occupation rather than my actual paid employment. What I mean is - for my work I am an Insurance Consultant. I've been practicing insurance for 12 years. I've been practicing Kuk Sool for 17 years.

I think like a Martial Artist first - and an Insurance Consultant second! Does that make sense? When I'm at work and faced with insurance problems, challenges, meetings etc - I face them like a Martial Artist. Now I dont mean I kick people until they get the job done! (Although the thought does make me smile sometimes), I mean I approach challenges with a calm state of mind, poised, ready, knowing that there will be a solution and I can do it. Not an I can't attitude and negative thoughts.

So tell me, how much do you love your martial art? Could you be without it?

For me - I can't. There is so much I want to understand about it and about myself. I feel like I have so much to learn. I'm hungry for it - all the time! Do you feel like this?

Instructors Proverb

2010-05-19T09:43:00.003+01:00

"One who dares to teach, should never stop learning"

New Seat from the Bike Show

2010-05-17T13:34:00.002+01:00

Yesterday Helen and I went to the BMF Motorcycle Show in Peterborough and picked up some abosolute bargains! Helen managed to get a new jacket and leather trousers. The leather trousers including armour protection at knees and extra padding at the hips were £30, reduced from £200! Thats the sort of discounts that are available if you look around!

The show consists of hundreds of stalls selling all sorts bike related! Its one of my favourite days out of the year.

For pictures of the event go to http://www.bmf.co.uk/Events/home/index.php

I have been after a 'Gel Seat' for my blackbird for ages and as they are really expensive I haven't been able to justify it. When they were £100 off at the show I could hardly refuse. Here's the seat in situ on the bike.

It was a very comfortable ride to work today.

Alkalising Update - Week 11

2010-05-14T12:03:00.000+01:00

We are now on Week 11 of our 12 week course alkalising our bodies. I haven't written a post about the course for a while as nothing different has been changing other than losing more weight and feeling more healthy inside.

Benefits I have noticed

I feel healthier
I am much more aware of how food affects how I feel and triggers my IBS. Since being on the course I have no symptoms at all. But when I stray from the course and have a treat, I notice it and the effects it has on my body.
I have lost 1 1/2 stone (21 lbs) ! and now weigh in at 12st 7lb.

Issues I've found

The last couple of weeks have been tough and have left me feeling really weak. I don't know what the cause of this is, I had the flu 3 weeks ago and people are quick to speculate that it could be my diet that has left my immune system low, or is it that I was going to get it anyway and my healthy food helped me heal quicker?
I have added a few carbs to my food here and there and this seems to be helping me feel stronger. I was really worrying about feeling so weak with my final 4th degree black belt test less than 3 weeks away!
We can't always stick to the menu options for each meal because of work. But we always find a way around it and modify the food so it suits us.

Only one more week to go. I am rather self concious but I may put a "before" and "after" picture of me on the blog if it wont make people nausious to see me topless! So you can see what I looked like at 14 stone and now at 12 1/2 stone. We'll see! I may keep my T Shirt on :o)

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for Charity please sponsor us.

2010-04-19T12:03:00.001+01:00

DO SOMETHING GREAT FOR A LOCAL CHILD TODAY!

In October 2010 a huge team of local people will be climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to raise money for the local charity “help an east coast child.”

This amazing charity is helping to support local children in targeted realistic and effective ways that can make a huge difference to the quality of life of children living in our area.

To raise money for this fantastic childrens’ charity we are looking for sponsors. Please either enter your details on our sponsor form (if we see you in person), or donate directly at:

www.justgiving.com/helen-denny17

For more information about help an east coast child visit:

http://www.thebeach.co.uk

We need to raise £3100 by August so please give generously.
Thank You

17 Years of Kuk Sool Won Training

2010-04-15T11:58:00.001+01:00

Yesterday marked 17 years since I started my Kuk Sool Won training. I remember my first class like it was yesterday. On one hand the time has gone really quickly - and yet, so much has changed since 1993.

I am also due to promote to 4th Degree Black Belt (Title: Sa Bum Nim) in June this year provided I pass my final testing which I am confident about. My instructor gave me my new Generals Uniform this week all ready for the promotion ceremony to be held in Kings Lynn in June. I've added a small glimpse of my new uniform on this post - its nice right!?

I am amased at myself for keeping up with kuk sool for so long. When I started I thought it would be a real achievement if I made it to Red Belt. That came and went so quickly! Like they say, a black belt is just a white belt who never gave up. I am that black belt. I just keep training and keep on learning.

To mark this monumental moment I am very pleased to announce that with all the alkalising food I have been eating I am exactly the same weight that I was the day I started Kuk Sool as a 19 year old lad.

How about that for an achievement!?

Alkalising - Week 6

2010-04-12T13:30:00.002+01:00

Having made it through the cravings we are now half way through the course.
I am thrilled to report that I have lost 14lb so far which is twice as good as I was expecting.

Dealing with Cravings
With regards to the cravings for certain things, I didn't give in to the Kebab non-sense! The most important thing is to feel mentally in control, even if you do succumb to something.

If you need to give in to a craving decide what treat you want to have and make a bit of a ceremony about it. If it is a coffee you are craving, go to your favourite coffee shop and really enjoy it. If you want something like chocolate or dessert, go out of your way to get your favourite and really love it.

The main point is to be safe in the knowledge that you are in control and this is just a treat. If you try to deny yourself everything then your body will rebel and will start craving the things you DONT want - like kebabs.

Armed with this knowledge PSBN Helen and I treated ourselves to home made steamed sponge pudding with low fat custard and a decaf coffee. It was lovely to have a treat at this mid-way point in the course.

It is probably worth pointing out here that both of us didn't feel very good after we ate it though! The pleasure was only short lived while we enjoyed the flavours, after swallowing our bodies felt a bit sick and bloated. I shall remember this the next time I crave something.

If you are on some form of a diet, and I know a vast majority of people are to a degree, let me know how you deal with cravings for the naughtier foods out there.

5 and a half weeks - Alkalising

2010-04-09T13:03:00.004+01:00

I don't know what is going on with me this week. I can't stop craving foods that I used to eat before we started this alkalising course. Yesterday I was really miserable and desperate for a Donner kebab! I haven't had a Donner kebab for over 18 months.

I wonder if my body is losing the toxins of my old eating habits and is now starting to crave them as a withdrawal process?

I am being strong but this is ridiculous, I don't normally have cravings for anything but yesterday was very difficult for me.

I ended up having a couple of beers and going to be early sulking at my lack of willpower.

Motorcycle Mechanics

2010-04-06T14:34:00.003+01:00

I've never tried motorcycle mechanics before last month when I took it upon myself to repair the Honda Blackbird. I hope you like the finished article shown here, complete with gold painted wheels. The first pic is the "before" shot.

And now the finished article.

I'm really pleased with it and it was great to get back on it again over the Easter break.

With a false sense of security I started to service the Triumph Daytona and it was a pig to work on. There were several "moments" where I felt out of my depth and that I had made a huge mistake in starting this task.

But with help from some friends and lots of patience I managed to complete the service and got some quality time riding the daytona over the easter holiday.

Alkalising Week 5

2010-04-06T14:26:00.003+01:00

We've now finished week 5 and feeling better than ever. Especially as I had more weight loss. Even more impressive when I think about what I ate on Bank Holiday Monday yesterday.

It wasn't "bad" by comparison to the amount of chocolate I would have normally eaten over Easter! We went out and had a carvery meal with lots of vegetables for lunch and in the evening for dinner Helen made a sponge pudding with custard.

I know this is off the chart as far as alkalising goes, but we really fancied a treat and haven't been naughty throughout the last 5 weeks.

It was a lovely meal - the pudding however seemed so sweet! Now that we dont have any sugar, anything that is intentionally sweet seems like eating/drinking pure sugar.

This has to be a good sign that we are on the right track and now starting week six.

Oh and by the way - I've lost 12lb so far. I now weigh less than I did 6 years ago when I was 30.

If I lose just 2 more pounds I will be the same weight I was when I was 19 and just starting Kuk Sool Won! That was back in 1993!

Its hard to believe that at 36 years old I will be the same weight as I was when I was 19. I never thought I'd see anything under 13 stone on the scales again. For a man I am overly obsessed with my weight and I've tried lots of different ways to lose weight in the past and this has to be the easiest by far.

I say that because:
1. Im not going hungry.
2. It feels like I can keep this up for life rather than short term crash diets.
3. I have more energy and feel more healthy.
4. I haven't had to increase my exercise routine. (Although I chose to I still lost weight when I did the same amount of exercise)

Alkalising week 4 complete

2010-04-01T12:23:00.003+01:00

We have now completed week 4 of 12 of the alkalising course and I have to say I'm really feeling the positive effects now.

I've lost 9lb since the start and I am under my target weight for the year which is excellent. However, this week has been harder than ever to keep the sugar cravings at bay. Why is this?

Is it because Easter is upon us and there is chocolate and cake at every turn?

I'm not sure but it has been getting frustrating. Yesterday I nearly caved, but instead I had a hot chocolate drink - probably just as bad as a chocolate bar but it did the job and I'm ok again now.

I'm also adjusting to the rather strange "vegetable green drinks" we have in the mornings. I still prefer the museli though!

Blackbird Wheels are Ready

2010-04-01T12:17:00.005+01:00

The gold wheels were delivered in person last night and I have to say I'm really impressed with them.

I'll get them fitted Easter Friday and take some pics of them "in situ"

Once the wheels are back on the blackbird has been repaired and is ready for a road test run. I hope the weather understands this monumental moment and allows me to get out and ride tomorrow.

New Rider

2010-03-30T11:15:00.002+01:00

A very good friend of mine has decided that now is a good time to pass his motorcycle test and buy his first bike. He is the ripe young age of 40 (ish) and is looking to treat himself. This weekend (weather permitting) we will be going for a ride together, he has hired a motorbike so I can give him some tips before he purchases his first proper big bike.

Here's what I'm sharing with him as a new rider:

The top 6 tips I can offer to work on as a new rider are below. Think about these A LOT while you are riding, especially just after collecting a new bike.

1. Relax your arms (and body)
2. Look as far ahead as possible
3. Develop a habit of cancelling indicators every few minutes
4. Set up the mirrors before you ride off
5. Stay away from painted lines on the road.
6. Wrap up. Being warm and comfortable is vital.

There are lots more tips I could offer but don't want to overload you with information when you may be nervous enough as it is. Riding a bike for the first few months is both exciting and daunting.

1. Relax your arms (and body)

As a new rider you will be tense. VERY TENSE while riding. This means your arms will be tight and locked at the elbows. This makes for an exhausting journey and is very bad for you. Especially your shoulders which are already sore and tight. When your arms are tight and locked this way your arms take all the brunt from the front suspension and transfers it to your back. This is bad. Relax your arms and let the bike's suspension do its job. Let the springs take all the lumps and bumps and your arms act as secondary springs to take any bigger bumps out of the road and not transfer them to your body.

2. Look as far ahead as possible

As a new rider you will have a tendency to look at the road near the front tyre and this will lead you to crash into stuff. Look as far ahead as possible. Feel free to check your speed etc as much as possible but don't keep your eyes looking at the clocks. By looking at the vanishing point you will see everything, stuff that is close up (man hole covers, potholes) your peripheral vision will see, you don't need to actually focus on it.

3. Cancel the indicators

There is nothing more embarrassing than driving for miles and miles with the indicator flashing away annoying everyone. You will also feel such a jerk when you realise what you've done. While riding, develop a habit of pushing the indicator button in every few minutes until this becomes a habit. Then you will never get caught out. Don't worry about fiddling with the button while you are mid-manoeuvre because you may lose control. Once you are straight and safe, cancel the indicators.

4. Set up the mirrors BEFORE you ride off

This is the same as when you first sit in a car. Set up the mirrors so you can see what is going on around you. Take your time. You don't want to have to move to an uncomfortable position to see what is behind and around you before you pull out to overtake etc. Sounds simple but I've seen (and done it) all before.

5. Stay away from painted lines on the road

SERIOUSLY!!!! STAY THE HELL AWAY FROM THEM. They are as slippery as ice in the wet and can cause you to lose control even in the dry. They are evil! Second only to wet man hole covers which are cleverly placed on a motorcycle line through a corner to kill us. You will soon learn where all the man hole covers are on your regular journeys. The only time I ride over painted lines and man hole covers is with the bike bolt upright no lean at all. Build a 'feel' for how your bike handles on painted lines. Smaller bikes slip from side to side of the line, bigger bikes with bigger rear tyres handle them better so you wont notice anything in the dry but they still slip in the wet.

6. Wrap up.

Keep warm and comfortable. Sounds simple but its so easily overlooked. We are still not into the summer yet, when you're on a bike you need to factor in the wind chill. If you are doing 80 mph the temperature is 10 degrees lower than when you are stationery. If you haven't quite put your neck piece in place and there is the tiniest of gaps, you will know immediately and it will make you lose focus and concentration and may even lead to an accident. Pull over and fix it if you have a lengthy journey ahead. Wear warm clothes, gloves etc to make sure you are as comfortable as possible. Comfort is vital to survival.

Please don't read this as bikes are disastrous and dangerous and its all negative. The positives easily outweigh the negatives, I'm just preparing you so you don't make the same mistakes I've done over the years so you enjoy the experience.

Penultimate Grading

2010-03-28T18:05:00.005+01:00

Today I had my 2nd to last grading for Sa Bum Nim (4th Degree Black Belt) in Kuk Sool Won. In the words of JIKJN Martin - It was going to be tough but fair.

He was right. It was a brilliant grading and I'm so pleased with myself, I know I've got room for improvement but I gave it my best throughout the 3.5 hours it took.

I was pleased to say I didn't forget a single technique and the more the grading went on, the more I realised I could keep going. I started to struggle a couple of times but seemed to get my 2nd and 3rd wind throughout the session.

I learned a lot about myself and seeing the other brown belts & black belts makes me realise how much I have gained over the years.

Both PSBN Helen and I did a good job and we believe we have passed. Only 1 more grading to go in June and I should promote to 4th Degree Black Belt.

Now what an achievement that would be!!

The Daytona is Home

2010-03-23T16:45:00.003Z

Last night I picked up the Triumph Daytona. Im really pleased with it and looking forward to modifying it to my liking and blasting all over the countryside this summer.

It was great riding to work again this morning and not having to use the car and then the park & ride bus.

The noise the daytona makes above 6000 rpm is just awesome and has me grinning from ear to ear.

I look forward to building a long lasting friendship with it.

First Time Mechanics

2010-03-22T13:28:00.000Z

I have never done any mechanics on any of my vehicles - EVER.

A lot of people thought I was mad when I said I was going to rebuild the blackbird myself. But here I am doing it.

I've never done anything like this before, all I've ever done during my 10+ years of motorcycling is check tyre pressures and oil the chain.

So far its going well and I'm really enjoying myself.

The next plan is to build myself a workshop in the garage so I dont have to work on the floor. I'm told for that lark.

I'll let you know how the garage conversion works get on with a few pictures. I'm very excited about it!!

Sport Relief Kick-A-Thon

2010-03-19T13:24:00.002Z

Tonight Kuk Sool Won of Lowestoft is doing a "Kick-A-Thon" to raise money for Sport Relief.

We are doing 1000 kicks for the charity tonight. Thats going to leave us with a very interesting walk this weekend!

I'll let you know how much money we raise.

Alkalising Week 2 Complete

2010-03-19T13:12:00.002Z

We have now completed two weeks of our 12 week alkalising course. The benefits are really starting to show now and I feel great.

Not only that but I have lost 6lb in weight in 2 weeks without doing any extra exercise. Obviously Psbn Helen and I work out a lot during the week and one of the things I was worried about on this course was feeling weak because the food was so different. This is not the case. I feel like I've got more energy than ever and I've lost all the bloating I used to have.

Below is what we are having for breakfast this week. I know it looks bad, but its really good for us and doesn't taste bad at all. As I have such a sweet tooth it was weird having vegetables first thing, but you soon adjust. We only have this shake every other day for week 2.

Everything you see on the plate goes into the shake - yes, ALL OF IT.

Get out of your way

2010-03-17T10:50:00.003Z

Master Martin was giving a short talk at Kuk Sool Won classes on Monday evening and he said something so profound that it struck a chord with me and has been buzzing around my head for 2 days now. I can't stop thinking about it, let me share it with you:

Master Martin was talking about what it means to be a martial artist and about releasing your own potential. He asked this key question:

"Who is holding you back from releasing your full potential"?

The answer is "you".

We hold ourselves back - we come up with excuses for not training, for not doing the things we say we will at home/work/school - in all aspects of our lives.

Then he said:

"Imagine what you could achieve if you just got out of your own way"

That's what got me thinking the most. I consider myself a positive action taking person, but how many times have I held myself back from achieving goals that are outside of Kuk Sool Won?

The list is longer than I'd care to admit.

So I've decided to get out of my way! I'm clearing the path ahead to make way for me.

Let me ask you: "What would you achieve if you got out of your way"?

I'm embarking on some new adventures in my already full lifestyle but Im doing it with passion and excitement because I am releasing my full potential. More on this to follow soon....

TWO BIKES AGAIN !!!

2010-03-12T13:40:00.004Z

Well it has been finalised by the insurance company that my Honda Blackbird is not economical to repair with the parts and labour totalling over £2700 when the bike is valued at £3100.

However, I don't want to lose the blackbird because it is an awesome bike and one that could easily be put back on the road with some minor scruffy repairs to use as a work bike. Therefore, I have bought the bike back as part of my settlement and with the help of friends and family I hope to have it back on the road very soon.

With the surplus left over I've just got enough to buy another bike too. So I'm back to having 2 bikes again wooo Hooo!

I've never had a Triumph before and despite press saying they aren't as good as the Japanese equivalent I am still proud to be the owner of this beauty. (OK I'll change the screen asap because it doesn't go with the bikes looks at all).

The sound of the triple engine through the genuine Triumph aftermarket exhaust is phenomenal and rare around the streets where I live. I look forward to sharing the sound it makes with the countryside this summer

Ye Har.

What do you think of the new addition to the family?

12 Week Alkalising Course

2010-03-09T17:17:00.003Z

Following a recommendation from our Master Instructors Helen and I have decided to embark upon a new journey into the world of Alkalising.

For more information about what we are doing visit the site and see the short video clip at this link:
http://www.energiseforlife.com/AlkalineLifestylePay/alkaline_diet_course.php

I've been a customer of energiseforlife.com for 3 years now. I buy Mega Greens which is an alkalising powder made from organically grown herbs, grasses and vegetables that you add to water to keep yourself alkalised. The benefits of which I have written about before in previous posts, but to summarise it keeps my IBS symptoms at bay.

The course we have started is 12 weeks in duration and we are currently well into week 2. I didn't know what to expect when starting because I thought it was going to be a hard switch over to vegetables and alkaline foods with none of our usual foods at all. I couldn't be further from the truth, the "transitioning" is really good and even though we are in week 2 we still get regular meals that we used to eat - albeit I now voluntarily make healthier options of them.

I haven't had any chocolate for 10 days - this is a first since I was.....well, as long as I can remember. Likewise I haven't been eating meat either which I thought would be hard, until I had a steak a few days ago and it made me feel awful. I was bloated, flatulent and felt uncomfortable. Pretty much how I used to feel all the time and one of the reasons I drink the Mega Greens drink.

In a nutshell here are the benefits I have noticed so far:

I feel well - when all others in my office are full of colds, flu and other illnesses.
I feel alert and wide awake all the day - rather than "lagging" in the afternoons.
I haven't had what I call "cauliflour head" since day 1 of this course. I believe its medical term is known as Mental Fogging.
I survive on much less food that I was eating before and most importantly I'M NOT GOING HUNGRY.
It has trained me on what to eat, and most importantly what not to eat.
It makes me food and drink aware. I no longer voluntarily subject my body to these toxins.
I have lost 5lb in 10 days without doing any additional exercise at all.

The course is fantastic and it tells you what to buy from the supermarket and what meals/snacks to have every day of the week. Its all planned out for you and the food is delicious. A lot of the time when we are allowed our usual meal - we choose to have one of the alkalising meals instead because we prefer them!!

This to me shows that the course isn't going to be a one-off that we do for 12 weeks and then go back to our old ways of eating/drinking. This looks like it is sustainable for the long term if not lifetime ahead.

I look forward to reporting more on my progress.

Bike Crash on the Ice today

2010-03-03T17:33:00.003Z

Today while riding to work I slipped and fell on black ice. It was nearly a centimeter thick yet I couldn't see it - hence why it is called black ice!

Fortunately I was only a few miles from home and despite the bike spewing its oil all over the road, I did manage to ride it home.

I am not hurt. My bike gear did its job and saved my skin. I have a few bruises but that is nothing. As any biker knows its heartbreaking to see your bike shiny-side-down and I know the insurance company is going to write it off. That means I'll be out of pocket because they never offer the value you expect.

I expect the bike to be worth £2500 but we'll see what they offer when they get back to me. I took these pictures for the insurance company:

The screen is broken in half, the mirror/indicator is broken and there is a hole in my handlebar muff.

There's a hole in my fairing, dear Liza, dear liza.....

There's a hole in my engine casing dear liza, a hole!

A few scratches on the side fairing.

All this from doing 20mph over some ice.

On a positive note, there were 3 car drivers that witnessed the event - they were trying to get up the hill I slid down. They all got out to help me move the bike to safety. One of them followed me home to make sure I was ok.

Despite what the media might have us think - people are really nice and helpful.

Well they are round our way !

Brave Lowestoft Kuk Sool Won Student - Sophie Nixon

2010-02-19T13:59:00.002Z

On Monday we found out that one of our Kuk Sool students has been bullied at school through a very traumatic 2 year period.

Sophie Nixon - nearly 13 years of age - has been bullied for 2 years at school and the stress caused by this has caused her hair to fall out with alopecia.

Sophie finally decided enough was enough and came forward with the information. A brave thing to do after so much time, and appeared on Anglia Television & the Sun newspaper to explain her ordeal. You can read the article here:

http://www.lowestoftjournal.co.uk/content/lowestoftjournal/news/story.aspx?brand=LOWOnline&category=NEWS&tBrand=lowonline&tCategory=news&itemid=NOED19%20Feb%202010%2009%3A47%3A50%3A550

Its a really sad story and I wish we could have known. We have proven methods of improving students confidence and self worth to prevent them from becoming victims to bullying without resorting to violence.

KJN Martin made an announcement with Sophie at our Kuk Sool Won School in Lowestoft on Monday to all our children's classes - if you are being bullied, or know someone who is - then speak up so we can put an end to the suffering. Tell someone you trust and feel comfortable talking to. That may be your parents, a teacher, or even one of your Kuk Sool Won instructors!

Dont suffer in silence like Sophie has done for so long. Speak out and lets beat the bullies! (not literally!! - well, maybe lol!)

Winter Sun

2010-02-17T17:13:00.002Z

Helen and I have just returned from a week in the sun at Gran Canaria. I have to say the warm weather was a welcome break from the miserable weather we have had this winter in the UK.

We left the UK on Saturday 6th February with snow falling and -1 temperatures. We arrived at our resort Saturday afternoon with sun shining and +30 temperature! Much nicer.

We had a quality time together increasing our relationship strength, evaluating our goals and dreams and setting plans for the future.

The above picture shows Mrs D looking mighty hot, and me - not so much! I know I've got work to do and there is a plan in place. I have 12lb to lose to reach the weight I was at 16 years ago when I first started kuk sool won.

Helen went to the gym everyday while we were on holiday. I went 3 times. This way I feel like I've made an effort - but at the same time I feel like I've had a holiday. Helen has much more motivation - she is a role model for motivation to get exercising and just look at her results!

(OK - thats enough looking at her results, read on.)

We are both feeling refuelled and ready for the Spring so bring it on because Team Denny are back in action.

Create your own Kuk Sool Won Notebook

2010-01-28T09:18:00.000Z

I thoroughly recommend starting your own "Kuk Sool Won Notebook".

I started mine years ago back in 1993. I transfer information from one book to another as I progress through the ranks and now I have got a fine tuned version that I carry with me everywhere.

I update it from time to time with new important information I am taught. This may be a new technique, some information about a form or some interpretation to help me understand the art in more detail. Other examples include information from the Senior Masters at Seminars.

It doesn't have to be anything fancy, it doesn't have to be hand written, you could type it on a computer or other data storage device. I prefer to hand write mine as I remember more when I write something, plus it then becomes more tangible and I can take it with me. I refer to it on the bus when on the way to work, I refer to it during advert breaks when I'm relaxing and watching the TV. It just keep me sharp and refreshes my mind with the finer details.

Another extremely useful source I use is from the Kuk Sool Won official textbooks.

If you read the text at the start of each form and set of techniques I find that very interesting and often pass this on to students. So not only is my Kuk Sool Won notebook a useful tool to me as a student - it helps me become a better instructor. I highly recommend it for anyone who is teaching - or interesting in teaching Kuk Sool Won.

During my revision I add notes to my book. It is filled with things I've been taught and told during classes and seminars - some going back over a decade! By re-reading your own notebook you will keep your mind refreshed and up to scratch.

Another example is somethings you are told/taught/shown and they may not make sense or you may not fully understand at the time, but reading again later - even years later - you gain a greater understanding. A classic example of this was when I first heard our Grandmaster (Kuk Sa Nim In Hyuk Suh) speak at a seminar when he referenced 'skin holes' and why they were important. At the time I didn't fully understand but as time has gone on it made me realise how intelligent our Grand Master really is.

I recommend to others that if you are struggling with techniques or any part of your training - get the Kuk Sool Won Text Books, they are extremely valuable, but more so make your own notes. You'll be surprised how much you retain when you write something down rather than just read it.

If anyone wants to know how to get started feel free to contact me, but ideally it just needs to come from you. Your own teachings, your own observations and practices.

Revision Pays Off

2010-01-26T09:07:00.003Z

Throughout the month of January I have had my nose stuck in the Kuk Sool Won textbooks refreshing and revising the forms and techniques.

The reason for this is because I've been getting lazy. I presumed that as my memory for techniques is pretty sharp I didn't need to put as much of my spare time into revising them. This prolonged approach has taken its toll and before Christmas I found that I was taking longer and longer to remember a technique and in some occasions having to think hard as to which set comes next at the higher levels.

I wasn't going to accept this, it doesn't look professional when you are teaching black belts and have to think (even if for 4 or 5 seconds) what the next technique is. I always pride myself on my memory of techniques because Im not "naturally gifted" at martial arts and have to work really hard to make anything look and feel good. Having a good memory is my 'niche', my way of contributing to help others and my favourite part of Kuk Sool.

So I got down to revision, I added notes to my "Kuk Sool Won Journey" notebook. Its tatty and filled with things I 've been taught and told during classes and seminars. I forgot how valuable my little note book has become. Ive started reading it again - a little bit each day (its filled with 16 years of notes and things to practice) and its paid off.

Last night Joo Im Kwahng Jahng Nim Martin gave us an excellent class. It was high cardio to start with and then moved on to a random technique memory test which was brilliant. The reason I found this so enthralling where as some may have felt uncomfortable is because the object of the exercise was memory training. It was important to react fast to the number and set of techniques being given. A quick response as well as a good memory for doing the right technique. This plays to my strengths and I was proud of myself at how fast my memory was recalling the techniques. On most of them I had reacted so quickly it made my partner jump!

We were changing partners after every few techniques so we all got to practice with someone new.

Totally enjoyed it and proved that my revision has been paying off.

I recommend to others that if you are struggling with techniques or any part of your training - get the Kuk Sool Won Text Books, they are extremely valuable and make your own notes. You'll be surprised how much you retain when you write something down rather than just read it.

Well, it works for me, but I still need more practice.

First Ride 2010

2010-01-15T13:21:00.003Z

Oh how good it is to be back on the motorbike again!

We've had so much snow since Christmas and long periods of freezing temperatures the roads have been really treacherous (see previous post) making biking to work an impossibility, or plain suicide.

But - after 3 very boring weeks of travelling to work in the car taking between 1.5 and 3 hours (each way) to get to work.

Today - I'd had enough. Ive been checking the forecast for weeks like a man possessed waiting for the snow and ice to clear and to make sure enough rain has passed to wash the road salt away. Today seemed like a good day to get the bike back out.

It was wonderful having an extra 40 minutes at home before getting my bike gear on, and having a relaxing ride to work passing all the traffic in the way!

Brilliant!! Viva la motorcycle!

Winter Driving is Driving me crazy!

2010-01-08T13:31:00.002Z

As a biker I hate the winter. Cold slippery roads, too dangerous to ride a bike for months on end. It gets very depressing. I've noticed that I've been getting motorbike withdrawal and my moods are making hard to live with!

I've added some pictures that I've been taking on the way to work at various days of this week when the traffic came to a stand still with all the snow. At first it was really frustrating that our country comes to a stand still for such a small flurry of snow. But when it froze over and everything became super slippery and dangerous its now become much more serious.

My usual lengthy journey to work of 30 miles has been taking twice as long as normal.

Has anyone else had issues with the bad weather? I expect there's a few parents out there who have had to make other arrangements because their children's schools have been closed.

I wish the schools would have closed on snowy days when I was a lad - that would have been brilliant!

Yes that is ice - frozen on the outside of the windscreen this morning (8th Jan)

The last ride of 2009

2009-12-31T09:37:00.003Z

Most people wouldn't consider getting on thier favourite motorbike and riding to work on a day like this. Its cold, wet, miserable, there is salt on the roads, its slippery and the clouds look like they are about to burst into torrential downpour.

Me - I'm smiling. Its the last ride of 2009.

I passed my bike test about 10 years ago now, maybe more, I lose track as I get older. But it has been a tradition of mine that I like to ride to work on New Years Eve. The weather would have to be "severe" for me not to where it would be detrimental to my safety.

As I'm a man of tradition I was looking forward to the ride into work this morning. It marks the end of another year. It takes me over an hour to get to work in the car, sometimes nearly 2 hours depending on the traffic. When I ride to work it takes 40 minutes regardless of the traffic as I ride around it.

Today took 30 minutes as there was hardly any traffic on the roads. The rain stopped as soon as I set off so I only had surface water to contend with.

It was a brilliant ride in and I'm already looking forward to the ride home!

I'm sure lots of you out there are looking forward to your New Year's Eve celebrations tonight with friends and drinks etc. But for me, the last ride of 2009 is my celebration. Many of you know I don't like staying up late - especially to midnight, and I can't stand Jools Holland either, so by the time the clock strikes twelve, I'm tired and miserable and just want to get it over with and then get to my bed asap!

So this year I've kind of got my own way. I'm celebrating with my last ride of 2009 and Psbn Helen and I are having a quiet night in and will go bed when we are tired. No need to stay up late.

We are having some friends over on New Years Day to celebrate the new year on the 1st of January.

May I take this opportunity to wish all the readers of this blog a happy new year and I hope you have many successes in 2010!

The snow round our way....

2009-12-23T10:13:00.002Z

I like the way Psbn Helen stands beside her car waiting for her charming husband to clear it for her while she shivers and looks pathetic!

Looks like this layer of snow is staying for xmas day which will be nice and pretty.

Last Kuk Sool Won lesson 2009

2009-12-22T11:47:00.000Z

We had a blast at the last kuk sool session last night. The kids classes were nearly full even for this time of year which was great. We had a fun night playing games with christmas music on.

For the adults we combined the two classes so we had black belts and coloured belts combined. Two of our new members were doing their grading as they were away during the official testing. So we all took part in this grading. Man it was a bit more of a beasting than I was expecting for this time of year. Everyone is usually in the "wind-down-for-christmas" frame of mind, but not our KJN Martin! Oh no, he was up for it and gave us an awesome class.

The year is nearly over. The training has been brilliant this year. Helen and I have really increased our fitness - Helen especially as she won "fittest blackbelt" of 2009 for our school. No award as such - just the bragging rights!

We had a few soft drinks in the bar after class to celebrate and then braced the snowy drive home.

Hope all my kuk sool won readers have had an excellent year and I look forward to sharing more training tips and thoughts with you in 2010.

Remember - we need more practice!

Ki Bohn Soo Master Level Techniques

2009-12-09T11:49:00.005Z

What an excellent class we had on Friday last week and Monday of this week. Master Martin went through the first 15 Ki Bohn Soo techniques with us at Master level. He explained there are 3 levels of practitioner for Kuk Sool Won which I have heard from other Senior Masters too:

Student Level
Instructor Level
Master Level

Master Martin recently spent some time with 9th Degree Black Belt Master Barry Harmon at the UK Seminar where Master Barry was demonstrating how to execute these basic techniques at a very advanced level.

Ki Bohn Soo are the first techniques taught to beginners at Kuk Sool Won. Even though they are very effective I was thrilled to learn how to apply the technique to a higher standard when I learned them at the "Instructor Level" many years ago.

Then over the last couple of lessons, we have been shown how to execute the techniques at Master Level. Man, I tell you I was blown away. It was like learning them all over again! The subtle differences in the execution makes all the difference. The effectiveness of the technique was stunning (and very painful!).

Years ago I often used to ask myself - why not teach it this way to begin with? Then we could all be awesome at beginner level, and I wouldn't have to learn the same techniques three different ways.

The thing is, I didn't understand the time and practice required to understand each technique at its fundamental level. "Ki Bohn Soo" translates as "Foundation Level Technique". As such they are the very foundation of the thousands of techniques that follow. Plus - you have to take your time to learn them, make them become second nature so you don't have to think to execute the technique. And, probably most importantly - when learning as a beginner the movements are strange to us, our bodies are not conditioned for the manipulation we put them through when doing the technique as well as having them done on us. If the advanced versions of the technique are taught from beginner level there would be serious injuries from the early stages of development as a martial artist and that would lead to long periods of not training while the joints and muscles repair which in turn can lead to students leaving.

I understand the need for the different levels as I have matured as a martial artist and it was a real pleasure (and a treat) to receive such a high level of tuition for these techniques. We are privileged to have a 6th Degree Master teaching our classes.

I for one really enjoyed the session and my good lady wife Psbn Helen really enjoyed it too having the opportunity to hurt me with these fundamental techniques! Two days after the lesson I was still sore!

We need more practice!

Picture sourced from http://www.lowestoftkuksoolwon.co.uk/

Up goes the Christmas Tree

2009-12-06T09:25:00.007Z

On Saturday Luke and I put up the new Christmas tree outside. I remember when I was a lad it was always great to be helping dad out when I was allowed. I know years later, now that I have my own son, that he may not be interested in the same things as me. But I always like to try and encourage a bit of manual labour in today's kids where the only strong muscles in their bodies tends to be their thumbs for texting and games consoles.

I was really pleased at how Luke got involved. He helped dig the (very deep) hole and really enjoyed himself. Especially when I dug in the wrong place and nearly went through our sewer pipe with my spade! We quickly filled that hole back in and started again in a different location! (Dont tell Helen)

We got the tree up and spread out the branches and put the 500+ lights on it. Luke thought that number of lights was excessive but he also admitted he couldn't wait for it to get dark to see it properly.

A truely lovely afternoon and proper bonding time with father and son.

These are the days that must happen to you.

Techniques are back in check

2009-12-02T11:44:00.002Z

I'm back!!

On Monday Kwang Jahng Nim Alison took the class. This is always a treat as KJN's classes are usually mentally difficult as well as physically challenging.

KJN Ali is not only stunningly beautiful, she is blessed with a photographic memory and so her techniques are spot on. This means that she will notice a mistake very quickly when she is testing us.

As I stated in a previous post I noticed my techniques haven't been up to scratch lately so I have really been paying attention to them and trebled my practice time going through every single technique I know.

This paid off ten fold on Monday night because KJN Ali gave us mini test on our techniques. I was thrilled with my performance, every technique was executed correctly and came to the forefront of my mind instantly. There was no lag at all!

I'm back! Now I know what I need to do to make sure the techniques stay in my mind. Go over them all more often. I took it for granted that I knew them all so I didn't put as much time into practicing them as I normally do and the result - they started to deteriorate.

Like I say to my own students - if you don't use it, you lose it.

Time to practice what I preach!

A way of thinking

2009-12-01T13:40:00.001Z

Two men, both seriously ill, occupied the same hospital room. One man was allowed to sit up in his bed for an hour each afternoon to help drain the fluid from his lungs. His bed was next to the room's only window. The other man had to spend all his time flat on his back.

The men talked for hours on end.They spoke of their wives and families, their homes, their jobs, their involvement in the military service, where they had been on vacation. Every afternoon, when the man in the bed by the window could sit up, he would pass the time by describing to his roommate all the things he could see outside the window.

The man in the other bed began to live for those one hour periods where his world would be broadened and enlivened by all the activity and color of the world outside. The window overlooked a park with a lovely lake. Ducks and swans played on the water while children sailed their model boats. Young lovers walked arm in arm amidst flowers of every color and a fine view of the city skyline could be seen in the distance. As the man by the window described all this in exquisite details, the man on the other side of the room would close his eyes and imagine this picturesque scene. One warm afternoon, the man by the window described a parade passing by.

Although the other man could not hear the band - he could see it in his mind's eye as the gentleman by the window portrayed it with descriptive words.

Days, weeks and months passed. One morning, the day nurse arrived to bring water for their baths only to find the lifeless body of the man by the window, who had died peacefully in his sleep. She was saddened and called the hospital attendants to take the body away. As soon as it seemed appropriate, the other man asked if he could be moved next to the window. The nurse was happy to make the switch, and after making sure he was comfortable, she left him alone.

Slowly, painfully, he propped himself up on one elbow to take his first look at the real world outside. He strained to slowly turn to look out the window besides the bed. It faced a blank wall.

The man asked the nurse what could have compelled his deceased room mate who had described such wonderful things outside this window. The nurse responded that the man was blind and could not even see the wall. She said, 'Perhaps he just wanted to encourage you.'

Epilogue:

There is tremendous happiness in making others happy, despite our own situations. Shared grief is half the sorrow, but happiness when shared, is doubled. If you want to feel rich, just count all the things you have that money can't buy.

'Today is a gift, that is why it is called The Present.'

I did it !!!

2009-11-30T13:35:00.002Z

I've finally done it! I have achieved my target weight through diet and exercise. Mainly through diet lately since damaging my ankle I haven't been able to work out as much as I usually do. This proves I can do more than I think I can and I will reset my goal.

To date I have lost 1 stone (14lb) and now weigh in at 13st 7lb.

My new target is to get to 13 stone which I haven't weighed for over 10 years. Which means I will be sensible through the festive season and not over indulge.

Sometimes, eating and drinking too much over the Christmas and New Year period can leave you trying to lose the weight right up to April the following year - I don't want to spend 4 months losing weight for stuffing myself over a 2 week period!

I'm very proud of myself and I'm looking forward to seeing if I can ever hit the 13st target? I will speak to my GP about further weight loss as I am 6' 1" tall this shouldn't be a problem. I think my "Ideal" weight should be 12 stone 7lb but I think that would make me look very ill indeed.

Kuk Sool Won New Official Website

2009-11-25T13:56:00.001Z

I recently went onto the World Kuk Sool Won Association official website and noticed it has had a huge facelift and looks a lot better than its predecessor.

Check it out at www.kuksoolwon.com

Grading on 21st November

2009-11-25T13:38:00.005Z

Another excellent grading and one I am pleased is over. 8th Degree Master Sung Jin Suh took our grading at it was really enjoyable.

I wasn't sure how my ankle was going to hold up during the grading and Im pleased to say I did my best and I didn't sit out of any part of the testing.

It was a huge success and we all got a chance to have a sit down lecture from Master Sung Jin Suh the Grand Master's oldest son. He explained how we can improve our training, what to focus on for the next 12 months and how to be more professional in our approach.

8th Degree Executive Master

Sung Jin Suh

The whole grading was more like an instructor's workshop than a testing. I learned a lot and the future is looking very exciting.

I've only got 2 more major testings to complete before my promotion to 4th Degree Black Belt! And about another 20 years before I get anywhere near as good as Master Sung Jin Suh