Comments for Sensei Ando

Comment on Stop Practicing Martial Arts! by Ando Mierzwa

Ando Mierzwa — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 15:52:40 +0000

Hi Tim! Sorry for your pains– we’re damned if we do martial arts and damned if we don’t, I guess! 🙂 Glad to hear you haven’t given up and are finding a way to keep moving forward. That still seems like the better choice. Keep fighting!

Comment on Stop Practicing Martial Arts! by Tim Sloan

Tim Sloan — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 21:17:22 +0000

47 years old, 13 years or so in kajukenbo and aikido. Began late with pre existing injuries. Trained hard for years, and back pain migrated to degenerated discs slipping out of the spine. Now having ankle issues and wrist issues on both sides. I understand now why as we age, many of us turn to Tai Chi. Have to stay moving to keep flexible.

Comment on What I Learned From Getting Beat Up by Ando Mierzwa

Ando Mierzwa — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 16:39:54 +0000

In reply to Lisa Jean Williams.

Hi Lisa — I’m so sorry for your continued pain, but glad you are in a safe place. Of course, I’m not a doctor, so I can’t diagnose what you might be dealing with. I will say that whether you have access to a gym or not, I believe in daily exercise to prevent and manage pain. Plus, there’s something healing in doing things for yourself, as opposed to relying on a chiropractor or anyone else to help you. Don’t give up!

Comment on Teacher Burnout in Martial Arts by Ando Mierzwa

Ando Mierzwa — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 16:34:02 +0000

In reply to Alex.

Hi Alex! For me, the trick with beginners classes is “disguising the reps”. Yes, you’re doing a limited amount of moves, but you can do them many different ways. Different drills can focus on speed, power, accuracy, coordination… it’s unlimited, really. Plus, if you make it fun for you, it will be more fun for them, too. Keep teaching!

Comment on Why I Practice Martial Arts and Not Yoga by Ando Mierzwa

Ando Mierzwa — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 16:31:27 +0000

In reply to Maurice. Hi Maurice! Sorry for the delay. Glad you liked the article! I don't really do style versus style content, but thanks for the idea. Happy training!

Comment on Breaking Down in Martial Arts by Ando Mierzwa

Ando Mierzwa — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 16:30:26 +0000

In reply to Conlan. Conlan! Sorry for the delay, but glad you're pushing yourself to new levels. Keep going!

Comment on What I Learned From Getting Beat Up by Lisa Jean Williams

Lisa Jean Williams — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 22:56:32 +0000

Hi, I am a domestic abuse survivor. He would beat me up all the time. For a year I put up with it. He would often attack my head. Pull my hair out in patches and when I was on the floor he would kick me anywhere he could. It’s been 9 months since I escaped and he has since took his own life. My question is I hurt everyday. My nexk,back, and shoulders. What do you suggest I do to help with the chronic pain. I get massages and visit the chiropractor here and there but nothing seems to help. I don’t have a gym where I live. It’s a small town. I’m tired of hurting. Thank you.

Comment on Teacher Burnout in Martial Arts by Alex

Alex — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 06:20:10 +0000

Maybe I’m lacking creativity. How can I apply this if I’m teaching beginners. I find that it’s just a lot of basics and no something worth “exploring “ in all honestly. I can see this in a more advanced class but when I’m teaching 3 beginner classes back to back can you recommend something can work on.
Thanks!