Black Belt Leadership: What Mount Laurel Youth ARE DOING!

Hey look what our youth are doing in the community! Great black belt leadership and character development at work! Visit us at www.MountLaurelMartialArts.com to find out more.

Video Link: http://youtu.be/89ZSfmha0Oc

Your Mount Laurel Martial Artist, Peter Liciaga, Teaches Elite Leadership

I am blessed to be an education activist and martial arts professional educator. Although it can be extremely challenging, the rewards are worth every bit of the hard work.
In order to have the maximum impact on my students, families, community and it's leaders today, I always remember that, first and foremost, I am a martial artist. I strive to be the person that my students think I am.

Next, I remember that I am an education activist and a teacher and I know that our (the martial arts' professional) product IS the classroom. When I step on the "mat", whether I'm in the dojo or in the world, I am there to teach andserve.

Yesterday (2/11/12), I was given the honor to teach an Elite Leadership Training class at Dinoto Karate Center in Mount Laurel NJ. The level of commitment with the participants is high and everyone was there to absorb the lesson of the session and participate at a master level.

I want to thank everyone for their input and help in making this training session an exciting and rewarding experience for me. Getting up earlier and knowing that I will be hanging out with committed, like-minded and highly-motivated martial artist is what I live for! So thank you for your time and energy!

Thank you to those of you that contributed some great feedback. Mr. Altschuler for sharing how important it is to share your successes without being a "bragger". Ms. Gebremedhin, Mr. Gebremedhin, Mr. Sotland, Mr. Webb for stepping up and doing a great job projecting as they read, and contributed thoughts, on the lessons materials. A special thank you to Ms. Alexanderfor sharing her insight and wisdom from her professional and life experiences. All of you are truly a great asset to Dinoto Karate Center.

Here is a quick recap of what was discussed. Please review materials and familiarize yourself with the content (the "meat" of the concepts, ideas and success mindset) and assimilate them into who you are.

Dedicated, Motivated, with the Energy for Excellence!

We discussed Master Elite Leadeship Module #3 - Educate, Motivate, Demonstrate.

Masters Elite Leadership Training - Session Three from Peter Liciaga.

One of the primary purposes that our organization has held true to form since the very beginning is the constant desire to better educate, motivate and demonstrate the values and benefits of leading life as a Black Belt Champion and becoming a successful achiever in life.
Since our humble beginnings in 1975, we have always done our best to raise the standards of the Martial Arts and to develop our instructors to be positive and powerful Models of Excellence.
Martial Arts begins and ends with RESPECT. By treating others in a FRIENDLY and COURTEOUS manner, we set the tone for great long-term relationships that will ultimately bring out the best in everyone.

We also reviewed Power #3: The Power of Positive Progress from Kyoshi Steve LaVallee's 12 Powers of a Successful Sensei.



In preparation for our next Elite Leadership Training Session, see the guide below.

1. Go to our Dream 100 site at www.theDream100.com (must be an approved member of this site)
2. Go to the Staff Training tab on main menu.
3. Click Master Elite Leadership on drop down menu under Staff Training.
4. Print the worksheet Lesson 4 - Integrity and fill in the "blanks" as you watch / listen the 9-minute video/audio. Print the Worksheet HERE | Access the Video HERE
5. After completing worksheet, go to the Staff Training tab and click on Lavalle's 12 Powers
6. Watch Video, Power #4: The Power of Preparation form Kyoshi Lavalle's 12 Powers of a Successful Sensei

If you are interested joining Elite Leadership Training, please feel free to email me at pliciaga@gmail.com or call 856-235-0414.

Remember, Live Well and Be Dedicated and Motivated with the Energy for Excellence!

Master Liciaga

Get Updates About Peter's Work in the Community By Joining His Mailing List HERE

This blog is part of Peter Liciaga's effort to promote Dinoto Karate Center (http://www.MountLaurelMartialArts.com) and the Ultimate Black Belt Test Program ( http://www.ultimateblackbelttest.com), which is an undertaking of The 100. (http://www.the100.us/), and a part of Peter Liciaga's Dream 100 Project.

Building a Positive and Productive Future (child, youth, teen, adult)

A Report on Black Belt Leadership Training.

In this study, I’m going to explore the benefits that you have (not “should”) experienced in participating in a “black belt” martial arts course. Please feel free to add your comments, suggestions, and/or questions below.

I started martial arts when I was nine. That’s 41 years ago! Wow, I can’t believe it’s been that long. I never knew that I would one day be using martial arts training as the heart of my personal development and growth.
Today, at 50 years and 9 months old, I find that my martial arts training, discipline, education and activism is what keeps me growing and moving forward daily.

My ability to process (and handle) every day successes and stresses is credited to the integrity and discipline that martial arts training challenges me to live.
Whenever I am confronted with a challenge, my first thought is, “what can I DO to overcome this challenge?” What resources are out there? Who can I connect with? What can I learn from this?

Martial arts training allows me to be “successful” as a man, husband, father, son, brother, friend, student, educator, activist, and citizen.

How has black belt training helped you? Please feel free to add your comments, suggestions, and/or questions below.

Peter Liciaga is a member of Tom Callos' The Ultimate Black Belt Test (http://www.ultimateblackbelttest.com/), an undertaking of The 100 (http://www.the100.us/), and a part of Dinoto Karate Center's master instructor staff (http://www.mountlaurelmartialarts.com/)

To find out more about Peter Liciaga, visit www.PeterLiciaga.org

Martial Arts Training For Senior Citizens

Although there are those that argue that senior citizens should not take martial arts not only as a way to stay physically fit, but to learn how to fight.

....just don't say that to Mr. Bill Doneghy!!!

“If you’re a senior citizen, it gives you confidence,” said Mr. Doneghy. “Every time you go, you’re accomplishing something. Master Liciaga doesn't take it easy on me because I am an old man! He trains me smart and pushes me to my limit. Master Liciaga always reminds me to do my best. I love it!"

Find out about our group classes and private lessons for senior citizens by calling 856-235-0414 or emailing MasterLiciaga@dinotokarate.com

This blog is part of Peter Liciaga's effort to promote the Ultimate Black Belt Test Program ( http://www.ultimateblackbelttest.com), which is an undertaking of The 100. (http://www.the100.us/), and a part of Peter Liciaga's Dream 100 Project.

Mount Laurel Martial Artist, Peter Liciaga, meeting with the "Instructor's Instructor"

Peter Liciaga, Mount Laurel martial artist and 4th degree master from Dinoto Karate Center met with Kyoshi Dave Kovar in Edison NJ for a ProMac seminar (Professional Martial Arts College).

Kyoshi Dave Kovar has been teaching Martial Arts professionally since 1978. Kyoshi Dave is a multi-style Black Belt (10 black belts! see video below) who has been committed to ever-improving his Martial Arts skills. His passion and dedication to helping instructors become the best teachers they can be is unparalleled in the martial arts industry. Kyoshi provides tips and insights to martial arts instructors around the world through workshops, bootcamps and seminars. To learn more about Kyoshi Dave, visit his blog HERE.

(Kyoshi Dave Kovar's 7th Degree Belt Test)

Master Liciaga and Kyoshi Kovar discussed effective instructor training strategies and principles, nutrition and the role of the martial arts master, and serving our communities through our martial arts instruction.

"Kyoshi Dave is a great friend and a great mentor. I appreciate the work he is doing and look forward to sharing everything that I learn from Kyoshi with all my students," said Master Liciaga.

Here is a quick video chat with Master Liciaga and Kyoshi Kovar:

This blog is part of Peter Liciaga's effort to promote the Ultimate Black Belt Test Program ( http://www.ultimateblackbelttest.com), which is an undertaking of The 100. (http://www.the100.us/), and a part of Peter Liciaga's Dream 100 Project.

6 Months of Martial Arts Training - What To Do, What's Been Done, How to Proceed

A student (name will remain anonymous) pointed out the other day, that it had been 6 months since he joined the martial arts program ---and, I'm assuming, he was making a statement about what's been learned, not-learned, done or not done, as the comment was said during our short conversation about the Student Creed, Black Belt Excellence and a commitment to black belt training.

What has or has not happened in the last 6 months is already a mute point, as there's no getting time back. What you are capable of doing in the next 6 months (or 3 years) is where the focus MUST be, as it's worth a healthy life-style, confident and peaceful mindset --or so --to you.


Some suggestions:

3 martial arts classes / 1 journal entry or 1 video of you training a week for the next 6 months

= 114 GREAT stories to share with your family, friends and co-workers

= 114 opportunities to talk about how you improved your health, your mind and that so elusive “indomitable spirit” we always talk about in black belt training (you know the one that will give you what you need when you need to get through one of life’s challenging moments!)

= 114 chances to talk about the highly committed people you meet in your black belt training

= 114 things you did to improve your ability to serve your family, friends and your community

= 114 chances to support and help other people, just like you, live the life of a black belt in training, and the 114 things that are important to you and those that love you.

6 months is 114 teaching moments for you and your family, friends and co-workers, using something I/we have discussed, or written via our blogs / newsletters, or seen via our video tutorials/stories, or are currently working on (Kids teaching Kids, Diabetes, Bullying, Verbal Self-Defense, Societal issues, etc...).

6 Months is your chance to share your lessons learned (and taught) on your own page here on the Dream 100. It could be 50 journal entries of you sharing about your training, what you want to achieve, and the posting of questions to make you/us think about challenges and solutions.

6 months is 114 opportunities to focus in on the different aspects of your growth.

6 months is 114 reasons how martial arts has changed your life.

If 10 of our students make 1 post a week, in blog, twitter, or film, that's 360 posts about their journey to black belt and our schools’ value to the community.

6 months is more than enough time to completely master your schedule and time management skills --and to exemplify and motivate everyone in your circle of influence to the same level of commitment.. to life.

6 months is in-depth, open discussions of your ups & downs in your martial arts training to black belt, to really, I mean, REALLY focus on what to do each and every day of your life (different action, different results).

6 Months is time to educate yourself in self-defense, healthy eating, communication skills, healthy learning habits, in bullying issues, and to train yourself to represent ANY material, excellently, in your community.

6 months is time to shed the need to do it all yourself --and learn the power of delegation and people management. It's also time to help 6 other school family members or neighbors to overcome their weaknesses, as they help you overcome yours (reach out).

6 Months is six (at least) invitations to your friends to come and observe and watch you train.

Every single day you have a chance to renew your focus, pay attention to details, and change your course.

The 4 things that can/should occupy your days are:

1. Healthy Mind, 2. Healthy Body, 3. Healthy Spirit, and 4. Healthy Relationships.

This blog is part of Peter Liciaga's effort to promote the Ultimate Black Belt Test Program ( http://www.ultimateblackbelttest.com), which is an undertaking of The 100. (http://www.the100.us/), and a part of Peter Liciaga's Dream 100 Project.

Start a Family Fitness Program for Your Family

As a martial arts teacher and a dad, it's only natural that my healthy lifestyle extends beyond the karate school and into my family life.

My wife and my children all have a healthy mindset and a great appreciation for fitness and eating healthy. (watch the video below of my 7 year old son, Christain, having fun exercising at the park)

5 simple suggestions for families who would like to start living a more healthy and fitness life.

1. Make a Game of It

It is important to keep family fitness fun, especially when children are involved. It will then seem less like a chore and the kids may actually look forward to exercise. Go to the park or take a hike. Spend one hour playing games like tag, red light-green light or family tee-ball and touch football. If this doesn't sound fun, stay inside, turn on fun music and dance around for half an hour.

2. Get Creative

Find creative ways to introduce fitness and a healthy lifestyle to your family. Make a rule that if someone watches TV, commercials must be spent doing sit-ups, push ups, jumping jacks or squats. Incorporate chores by turning toy clean-up into a race, or make a basketball game out of throwing dirty clothes in a hamper.

3. Input From Every Family Member

Allow every family member to choose an activity and make a list of possible activities to choose from. This list might include walks, bike rides, dance and fitness videos or martial arts classes. The variety in activities will prevent boredom and will make exercise seem less like a chore.

4. Stay Committed

Set a good example for your kids by staying committed to a healthy lifestyle. Don't allow time-off or breaks in routine unless it can't be helped. If you stay enthusiastic and upbeat about it, your kids will follow suit. Kids will then learn to make fitness a permanent part of their lives.

5. Small Things Matter

If starting a complete family fitness program seems too daunting, start small. Park at the far edge of the mall parking lot in order to walk farther. Take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator. When picking up or dropping off at school, don't pull up all the way to the front door. Have your child walk around the grocery store instead of riding in a cart. Chances are, your child won't even notice these changes.

These are just some simple ideas, come up with your own. Please share your ideas below in our comments section.

Now, grab your loved ones and get fit!

- Peter Liciaga, Your Mount Laurel Martial Artist

"My wife and I are currently developing an online family fitness challenge resource site."

For more information about the Family Fitness Challenge, email pliciaga@gmail.com

This blog is part of Peter Liciaga's effort to promote the Ultimate Black Belt Test Program ( http://www.ultimateblackbelttest.com), which is an undertaking of The 100. (http://www.the100.us/), and a part of Peter Liciaga's Dream 100 Project.

You're NOT My Student...BUT, if You Were...

If you or your child WERE my "student," here's some of the stuff I'd "teach" ---

I'd teach you that the people you hang out with so dramatically affects your thinking, goals, state-of-mind, sense of right and wrong, sense of duty, and the value you do --or do not --put on things like education, literature, art, Rolex watches, living-in-the-here-and-now, wearing the perfect sunglasses that make a statement about who you are in the world, compassion, empathy, participation, and 1000 other greats and not-so-greats, that it might be the single most important thing you pay attention to.


I'd teach you to pay more attention to just about everything about healthy eating, fitness, positive role models, positive self-image, peace, environmental awareness, anger management. The Good stuff.
I'd teach you how to contribute to --and fully participate in -- a successful martial arts program something like Mount Laurel's Dinoto Karate Center  offers. As I can tell that most people think that martial arts schools are nothing but an activity that teaches kicks, punches and blocks. I can also tell you that all the martial artist that I surround myself with are positive and motivating people that help me achieve my goals and overcome my obstacles. If I really taught you how to step up, participate and contribute and why...well, you'd know everything I learned in my 40 years as a martial arts student ----Everything!

I'd teach you how and why to embrace your life, your training, and your work. I'd teach you why it's so very important to train yourself to write a journal (more important than any kick, punch or block you'd ever learn, for sure).

I'd teach you why it's so important that you live a more transparent life (it's about being a GREAT student and teaching by example).

I'd teach you how to completely redesign your idea of what it is to be a great citizen in your community --and in the world (and that lesson, alone, would forever change your world --and the lives of 100's if not 1000's of people in your sphere of influence).

I'd teach you that the very things I'm trying to teach you are the very things someone's trying to teach me.

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This blog is part of Peter Liciaga's effort to promote the Ultimate Black Belt Test Program ( http://www.ultimateblackbelttest.com), which is an undertaking of The 100. (http://www.the100.us/), and a part of Peter Liciaga's Dream 100 Project.

Public Praise, Privately Reprimand

Peter Liciaga, your Mount Laurel Martial Artist and instructor at Dinoto Karate Center shares this great video for parents from Kyoshi Dave Kovar (see video below).

Master Liciaga believes that public praise and private reprimand is not only a best practice for parents, but also for karate teachers.

Master Liciaga, as part of his committment to being the "best of the best" karate instructor at Dinoto Karate Center, has designed Mount Laurel's only resource website for martial arts instructors, Dream 100. This is a members only site, but you can definitely visit us at www.AmericanBlackBelts.com

Here is a video by Kyoshi Dave Kovar on Public Praise, Private Reprimand. Enjoy... :)



Follow Kyoshi Dave Kovar's work at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dave-Kovar/198671753496906

This blog is part of Peter Liciaga's effort to promote the Ultimate Black Belt Test Program ( http://www.ultimateblackbelttest.com ), which is an undertaking of The 100. (http://www.the100.us/), and a part of Peter Liciaga's Dream 100 Project.

Fighting Addiction Through Martial Arts Training

Today I added an article to my blog, Mount Laurel Martial Arts: Video Game Addiction, and it got me thinking about what are some tools I’ve used to overcome certain things in my life. One of the greatest tools I utilize is taking the time to meditate and pray.

My friend, Richard Hubbard and I discussed the value of meditation and how it helps him with his ADHD.

Here is an article I came across in one of my many researches on meditation.

Fighting Addiction Through Martial Arts Training

Each week at my martial arts school, my teacher conducts weekly lectures that are referred to as meditation class because at the end of the talk we sit and meditate for about 15 minutes. Sometimes we ask questions during these talks and recently one came up about how can meditation help you deal with recovery from alcoholism. Apparently, meditation is part of the 12 step AA program which I hadn’t realized. Interesting.

It got me thinking about my own former addiction with cigarettes. Almost 10 years ago I used smoke about a pack a day for more years than I care to recall. I was really addicted both physically and mentally to those damn cigarettes. Then one day I found myself getting up from dinner out with friends so I could go outside and have my smoke. More and more that was happening as people were really starting to frown on smoking even when sitting in a smoking section if there was one. So it didn’t matter if it was 20 degrees outside - out I would go disrupting a nice little get together to feed my addiction. Looking back my non smoking friends must have thought me ridiculous. Or ridiculously weak. What woke me up though was the fact that I realized cigarrettes were in control of me - they were the boss. I was a slave to my addiction. That is when I made up my mind to stop. Of course, I knew it was bad for my health and that was always in my guilty mind as I puffed away but that is what an addiction typically is isn’t it? Doing something despite the fact that you know it is harmful to you and doing it anyway.

So I quit and it was HARD. Really hard. I couldn’t imagine getting through the day much less the rest of my life without cigarettes. So I took it literally one minute at a time. When I got the urge to smoke, I delayed that feeling by exercising. Often I would find that if I could delay the urge and put my mind on something else, it would pass. I was also replacing a bad habit with a good one. When I couldn’t exercise because I was at work, for example, I constantly had a bottle of water at my side and I drank tons of it. I actually lost weight instead of gaining it. This brought me into a whole new healthier life style and about a month later I took my first martial arts class and that was truly the end of my addiction.

You see now I was this person who was fit and health minded. Now I was amongst people who strived for self discipline not self indulgence. I became someone very different from the smoker I used to be. I quit and stayed quit, unlike my husband who did not make lifestyle changes, and slipped back a number of times. To this day, he still craves a smoke sometimes. I can honestly say I never even think about it.

Certainly, my martial arts classes helped because on a very basic level I would not have been able to keep up if I was still puffing away and I really wanted to do my best. However, back then I didn’t meditate much and had I had this tool as well I know it would have really helped. Meditation helps train your mind to be in more control over your thoughts - exactly what the addicted person needs to stay off the drugs, alchohol whatever once the physical cravings have passed. Sitting in meditation and working through those urges by focusing on the breath would been another way to work through those urges until they no longer held the same power. My breathing exercises also showed me how much damage had been done and how much rebuilding was necessary.

Martial arts can be helpful on so many unexpected levels. I really admire the woman who had the courage to ask the question in class and I immediately had a deep respect for the transformation she is clearly working towards undergoing. I have little doubt that her chances for success are greatly increased thanks to her martial arts training. Good for her!

Have you kicked an addiction? If so, how did you do it? Please share your story.

This blog is part of Peter Liciaga's effort to promote the Ultimate Black Belt Test Program ( http://www.ultimateblackbelttest.com ), which is an undertaking of The 100. (http://www.the100.us/ ), and a part of Peter Liciaga's Dream 100 Project.

Video Game Addiction

Yesterday one of our students asked about how to help their friend stop playing video games all the time.


There are so many people that are battling video game addiction (read article: “Video Game Addiction NO Fun”).

Studies show that the excitement of video games makes playing them addictive. Parents of preteens and teens hardly find the realities of video game addiction surprising.

Ask any preteen or teen how they love to spend their spare time, and chances are you'll get an earful about video games. But why do they love them so?

Is video game addiction real? According to some studies it would appear that the excitement of video games causes the brain to release a chemical that is, in essence, addictive. For any parent who has seen the fervor by which some kids play video games, this news is no surprise.

What makes video games so addictive? Media literacy specialist, Dr. Charles Ungerleider explains that "they're very compelling with increasing complexity, so a child becomes more facile, yet wants to know more and apply new skills." While wanting to improve their game isn't a problem in itself, it becomes one if video games are "taking a youngster away too much from other activities," says Ungerleider. "Then the parent has to intervene and limit the amount of time the youngster spends with the video game."

Professor of Computer Science, Maria Klavee feels video games, if not too violent, can "offer some real opportunities for puzzle solving, strategic and critical thinking". But she adds that it's important that video and computer games are played in moderation. Klavee says parents should "provide a selection of activities, not just the ones that have the most action or are addictive. Choose some that involve problem solving or good story lines. Also aim for a balance in your child's life. Sports are important, reading's important. Just think of computer games as one more component in a child's exploration of what's out there in society."

As for video game addiction? Ungerleider believes that "a parent can prevent youngsters from becoming addicted to too much TV or too many video games by establishing a pattern of selective viewing or by using video game material early in a child's life so that by the time a youngster gets to be an adolescent and there's very little surveillance or control, it's less likely to occur."

Finally, Ungerleider remind parents that "if a youngster becomes addicted to video games it can be a problem and the parent does need to intervene and provide attractive alternatives."

A structured and discipline environment like martial arts offers, CAN help with video game addictions.

If you ever wonder about the symptoms of computer game addiction, here are the red flags based on my stories…

If you can’t concentrate or lack focus doing anything when not playing the video game. If you don’t play just for a day your mind can’t think straight and the sound to play just ringing in the head.

You play not because you enjoyed it, but you need it, you depend on it. Sure for the first or three hours you still enjoy playing it, but many hours later you probably has diminish the fun factor and play just for the sake of it.

You play to run away from real life problems. Many people when nervous or have troubles with their life go to the place where they can feel safe like foods, alcohol or smoking and this applies for games too. Game can temporarily make you feel safe and doesn’t have any problem at all.

There is a feeling of guilt every time you play the video game. Playing too much video games can make you feel guilty for some reason. I believe the reason for this is that deep down, you know you played too much video games.

Loss of control. How many times have you said to yourself “okay this is the last game” or “I’m gonna stop playing after an hour”, but you end up playing a lot more games or a lot more hours than what you promised yourself?
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This blog is part of Peter Liciaga's effort to promote the Ultimate Black Belt Test Program ( http://www.ultimateblackbelttest.com/ ), which is an undertaking of The 100. (http://www.the100.us/ ), and a part of Peter Liciaga's Dream 100 Project.

Mount Laurel Martial Artist, Peter Liciaga, helps friend choose a karate school!

How to choose the right martial arts school for your child.

I wanted to share with you my answer to an email from a good friend about choosing a martial arts program:

Hi Peter, I hope this message finds you all well!

Chris and I wanted to reach out and get some advice from a Karate expert. I wish we lived near you to entrust the boys to your teaching, but since we live in Canada, the commute would be too far. We have been discussing whether Martial Arts would be appropriate for the boys.

We aren't well versed in it. Chris does know more than me, but we don't know which type would be best to start them at as well as what to look for in a dojo. Any advice you could lend would be so appreciated!! Again hope you all are well and I love reading about your success and family love~

All the bestand thanks

Dear Susan and Chris,
 
I am trying to send out a clear message to my community as to why every child should learn Martial Arts. This concept is nothing new; I have all been doing this in one way or another for my whole career. The difference for me is that I have never been quite as deliberate in my efforts as I am now. I believe that every child should learn Martial Arts.

There is a reason why Oprah, Dr Phil, Dr Laura Schlesinger, Jillian Michaels (Biggest Loser), Tony Robbins, pediatricians, child physiologists, and educators the world over all have alluded to the fact that Martial Arts is one of the most valuable things you can involve your child in.

It goes way beyond self defense and can help any child in nearly every aspect of their life. Improved health and fitness, athletic enhancement, increased confidence, better concentration, better behavior, more courteous and respectful; martial arts can help in all these areas.

Does this sound too good to be true? It’s not. As a matter of fact, many experts agree that in this day and age of escalating childhood obesity, increased playground violence and deteriorating family structure, if you do nothing else for your child, you should make sure that they learn how to swim and they learn martial arts.

Now, with all that being said, here's an article I wrote a while ago....

Considerations for Choosing a Martial Arts School
by Peter Liciaga

So many martial arts schools and so little time! How does one choose the right one? Here are some inside tips to help you to pick the right school “for the right reasons”, from Peter Liciaga, a veteran school owner.

Martial arts schools are everywhere! If you live in the U.S., chances are you have at least one school within a 5-mile radius of your home --and probably more. There are estimated to be more than six million martial arts practitioners in North America, about 70% of those are children. Today’s martial arts schools range from operations that rival the polish and fancy facilities of the nation’s finest health club chains to schools that look like the set of The Last Samurai to down-and-dirty “garage dojos.” Price ranges in the martial art industry, according to Frank Silverman, Director of the Martial Arts Industry Association, average out at about $125 per month, but schools can be found that charge anywhere from $35.00 per month to more than $200.

How does one go about choosing the right school? Industry expert Peter Liciaga, a veteran school owner himself, has some sensible advice on how to choose a martial arts school that’s right for you.

“The first thing to know about choosing a martial arts school is that you already know how to do it.” says Liciaga.

“You evaluate a martial arts school the same way you would evaluate any school you would take your child to. Just because you’re thinking of joining a school that teaches the “ancient art of self defense”, doesn’t mean you don’t apply modern day scrutiny to their professionalism, teachers, and facilities.”

Liciaga asserts that being a black belt, at any level, is not a sign that the wearer is a good teacher or that he or she knows how to run a business. “Just because someone is a good athlete, doesn’t mean they are going to give you your money’s worth when it comes to lessons,” warns Liciaga. “Parents should use their good judgment when choosing a school, as just like in the martial arts, there aren’t really any secrets, it’s all about mastering the fundamentals. If you’re looking for a good school, look for one that’s proficient at the fundamentals of customer service.”

Liciaga offers nine other school-hunting tips:

The Facility
Just like any business, the way the facility looks and its cleanliness (or lack thereof) says something about the attitude and aptitude of the owner. A martial arts school doesn’t have to look like a Starbucks, but it ought to be clean and organized. If a school doesn’t look professional, chances are it isn’t.

The Staff
Just like you would expect from any business, the staff of a martial arts school should be courteous, professional, and personable. They should treat you (and/or your child) like a paying customer. If you can go to a department store and get better service than you can at your local martial arts school, then spend your money at the department store.

The Attitude
Bad attitude = bad school; if you get a weird feeling, a sort of “attitude” from the staff or owner that rubs you the wrong way, then you shouldn’t become a customer of that school. If the attitude of the owner is superb and his or her staff exhibits a similar attitude, then you’ve found a school worth a second look.

The Style
When shopping for a martial arts school, the “style” the school teaches is secondary to who teaches the classes and how they teach them. A good instructor will make you feel good about what you’re doing. He or she will help you stay healthy and take an interest in why you’ve joined the school. If you’re a complete novice to the martial arts, don’t shop for a style or method, shop for the best teacher or teachers (read: the best people) you can find. Find the right teacher and you’ll love the martial arts. Find the wrong teacher and it won’t matter what style they teach.

The Students
Lots of intermediate and advanced students in classes? Chances are you’ve found a school that knows how to enroll and keep its students; that’s a good sign. If you go to a school that’s been in business for a year or longer and it’s still empty, something’s not right with the school. Most martial arts teachers think their classes are the best classes --the way that most restaurateurs think that their food is the best food. If the parking lot is empty, it’s a sign that the customers have a different opinion.

The Financial Arraignments
Many martial arts schools will ask you to sign a contract for a certain number of lessons and/or for a certain amount of time and that’s ok, as a school has to sell its wares and generate cash flow just like any other business. You shouldn’t think twice about signing a contract with a school, under the following conditions:

1. You’ve had adequate time to witness and experience the service the school provides. Most schools have a great sales pitch, but some aren’t able to follow through with the level of service they promise. Nine out of 10 schools will allow you to try a month of lessons, for a price, before you agree to enroll for a certain number of classes or months. If you can’t negotiate this trial period, it’s a definite red flag. Bonus Tip: Most schools will have a Pay In Full option on membership. It’s ok to pay for your membership in full, but make sure you know the school thoroughly before doing so. Most schools will have a no-refund policy.
2. The contract you sign should spell out, clearly and exactly, how you leave the program should you have to leave or if you become dissatisfied with the service. It’s ok to pay a little exit fee or some other penalty should you decide to leave before fulfilling the terms of a contract, but the penalty or penalties shouldn’t be unreasonable (and some are, so check carefully). Nine out of 10 schools will, if you insist, write a special “exit clause” on your contract spelling out the terms of your departure and they will also be willing to strike out parts of a contract if you don’t feel comfortable with the verbiage. Bonus Tip: The way the owner or staff member treats you should you try to negotiate a trail period or a change in the school’s contract will give you a very clear idea of what the school’s service is really like, after the sale. If you’re not treated with respect, go elsewhere.

The Service
There’s service, then there’s good service, and then there’s excellent service. Just because the owner or staff member of a martial arts school has the ability to make you beg for mercy with his or her baby toe, doesn’t mean they have the right provide you with anything but the best service they can muster. If you visit a martial arts school and you don’t see or feel a reasonably high level of customer service happening, raise that suspicious eyebrow, step back a bit, and do some further analysis.

The Feeling You Get When You’re There and When You Leave
Are you having fun? Do you leave the school feeling empowered and taken care of? If you go to a martial arts school and leave feeling better than when you arrived, you’ve found a good thing.

Your Gut Instinct
Always go with your gut instinct when choosing a school or instructor. If your intuition says something’s not right, something’s not right. If you’ve found a good school, you’ll know it (especially if you’ve read this article).

Peter Liciaga is an education activist to the martial arts industry. He is also a founder of the Stop Bullying Now Project. He resides in Mount Laurel, NJ.

This blog is part of Peter Liciaga's effort to promote the Ultimate Black Belt Test Program ( http://www.ultimateblackbelttest.com/ ), which is an undertaking of The 100. ( http://www.the100.us/ ), and a part of Peter Liciaga's Dream 100 Project.

For Martial Arts in Mount Laurel NJ, visit http://www.dinotokarate.com/

Mount Laurel MMA Class Outline for This Week

STOP WHEN YOU HAVE TO, START WHEN YOU CAN

Lesson Outline

1. Combat Fitness Training Module (total Time: 9:40:00 Minutes)
     a. Kelly Workout (see video above)
         
2. Striking (Pad Work) Hand & Feet:
     a. Combo: Jab/cross/hook, Round kick

3. Take Downs:
     a. Double leg take down

4. BJJ/Submission Grappling Drills: (with consideration for punching. COVER UP)
     a. Putting it all together - From standing guard: Jab/cross/hook, Round kick, Double leg take down, Take Side mount or Top mount

5. “Mat Time” – using standing combination to double leg take down - 5 x 2 minutes w/20 sec break

This blog is part of Peter Liciaga's effort to promote the Ultimate Black Belt Test Program ( http://www.ultimateblackbelttest.com/ ), which is an undertaking of The 100. ( http://www.the100.us/ ), and a part of Peter Liciaga's Dream 100 Project.

For Martial Arts in Mount Laurel NJ, visit http://www.dinotokarate.com/

Martial Arts training for kids? hmmm....I mean how good can they REALLY get?

Watch this video and YOU DECIDE!

This blog is part of Peter Liciaga's effort to promote a children's healthy & active lifestyle for the Ultimate Black Belt Test Program ( http://www.ultimateblackbelttest.com/ ), which is an undertaking of The 100. ( http://www.the100.us/ ), and a part of Peter Liciaga's Dream 100 Project.

For Martial Arts in Mount Laurel NJ, visit http://www.dinotokarate.com/

Martial Arts Curriculum for Kids. A New Era in Curriculum.

Recommendations for Martial Arts Curriculum, for Young People, For Today’s World

This curriculum is assembled, structured, in order to teach what I consider to be “good martial arts.” What I teach today as a man of 50, a man with children, with a grandchild, a man who has outlived one of his children father, and who has outlived some of his friends, is not what I was taught at the age of 30.

What I teach today, with nearly 40 years of experience, is not what I thought I knew when I got my black belt or when I had 15 years or 20 years or 30 years of experience. What I teach today has been shaped, in part, by my many failures, my occasional successes, by my work with inner-city kids, by Nick Vujicic, by Dr. Patch Adams, by Theresa Burroughs, by Tom Callos, by the war for oil in the Persian Gulf, and by the explosion of information technology.

Self-defense, today, is so much bigger than we ever thought about in 1973 or ‘79 or ‘84 or at any time in recent history. It is predicted that 1 in 3 children will be affected by type II diabetes in the next decade. Obesity is considered a national epidemic. And not one of the top 10 killers of men, women, or children has any relation to anything involving a kata, a block, a choke defense, a kick, or reality-based self-defense training.

In the 1950’s and ‘60’s, self-defense books showed defense from soldiers sporting bayonets. If it didn’t show soldiers, it showed men in suits with ties and women in dresses with bonnets like my mother use to wear. In the 1970’s and ‘80’s, self-defense was David Caradine and Bruce Lee. It was Joe Lewis teaching Playboy bunnies in the pages of Black Belt Magazine. It was “the death touch” and really weird guys from Chicago. We spent a lot of time debating what style was most effective on the street.

Today’s self-defense isn’t about “style” at all. It's about what we eat and where that food comes from. It’s about what we consume and where it goes when we throw it away (and where is “away?”). It’s about obesity and diabetes and domestic violence, bullying, ageism, sexism, positive self-images for girls and boys, racial and gender prejudice, Wall Street and corporate greed, pesticides, cancer, drugs, attachment, nationalism, hyper-aggressive masculinity, oil, and so many things that aren’t about the martial arts I grew up on that it is, literally, a whole new era for “self-defense.”

When my young students leave my care, whether after a month or years of practice, I want them to know as much about real fitness as I have the ability to impart. That’s not just physical fitness I’m talking about, but mental, emotional, spiritual, and social “fitness,” as ill health isn’t only a disease of the body. If I knew nothing about the world, I might be content to teach the martial arts I grew up with. Fortunately, I have grown --and so has my martial arts.

I want my students to know real, pedal to the metal self-defense, but not just physical self-defense. Attitude and beliefs about other people, about relationships, about money, about food, about our obligation (or lack thereof) to our communities, about waste, about conformity, violence, and about education, well, these things are just as, if not MORE relevant to personal protection today, than any physical maneuver of “the martial arts.”

As a “Sabom” (master martial arts teacher) in today’s world, my martial arts --and as a result, my curriculum, has changed and evolved as much as the world has between the time President Theodore Roosevelt practiced judo in The White House (1903) and today, July 23, 2011.

Curriculum for Kids.

Community Involvement

Each belt a student advances should require the student to have conceived, planned, and executed a “project” that exemplifies the idea of “out of the dojang and into the world.” The project should engage the student in something they’re interested in, but it MUST help someone or something in the community. Each project should be kept in an on-line “project portfolio.”



Dietary Self-Defense

Each student should be well trained --and practiced --in dietary self-defense. It is absolutely unacceptable that a child should move into his or her high school years and not have a solid understanding of what healthy eating is --and is not.



Peace and Non-Violence Training

Attitudes about conflict, gender roles, race, and the media affect mental health and society’s propensity for violence. No student should go through authentic martial arts training without learning as much about the “art” of peace as they know about the physical aspects of their “martial” art.



Environmental Self-Defense

We can no sooner ignore our impact on the environment as we can walk into a lion’s cage wearing a steak suit. Every young person who goes through the belt ranks of a martial arts “system,” should know the basics of environmental self-defense as well as they know the basics of physical self defense.



Mindfulness Training

The opposite of "being mindful" is "being mindless." Every young martial arts student should know what mindful living is --and have a very full toolbox of resources for all that living as a mindful, aware, and high-functioning human being involves. Furthermore, knowing what mindfulness is, doesn't have 1/1000th the value of knowing how to practice mindfulness. The student who spends any significant amount of time studying the martial arts, should be as proficient at living mindfully as he or she is in the "art" in question.



If you are a parent or someone interested in a curriculum / program that instills the discipline of martial arts that is practical for the world today, contact us using the comments section below. Or, contact Peter Liciaga at pliciaga@gmail.com

This blog is part of Peter Liciaga's community activism effort for the Ultimate Black Belt Test Program ( http://www.ultimateblackbelttest.com/ ), which is an undertaking of The 100. ( http://www.the100.us/ ), and a part of Peter Liciaga's Dream 100 Project.

Martial Arts Museum in Burbank, Ca.

Combat Fitness Training & MMA - Week 3

This week your Mount Laurel martial artist, Peter Liciaga, will be continuing with the Combat Fitness Training routines in our MMA classes.

Combat Fitness Training is a series of fitness training exercises that are short workouts, that are usually 10 or 11 minutes long. They will be added to our MMA class, and are martial arts specific workouts that are drawn from CrossFit, Tabada, Monkey Fit and other new concept gym fitness concepts. The idea is to make sure that you get a great workout that is varied yet practical and functional for your MMA training.

Last week we started with the CFT Bench Mark Fitness Test. This is a series of exercize that give you an idea of where your fitness level is at any given point of time. The series was designed by my friend, Dave Kovar. You can see a video of the workout and record your time HERE.

Our focus this week in our mma classes will be mma boxing drills, muay thai round kick, take downs, sprawling, bjj top maintenance & top escapes. This week we will start doing what I will call "mat time". This will be the opportunity where you will work with a partner in 3 to 5 rounds of 2 to 5 minutes each, practicing the techniques & strategies you worked on in the class. They are a lot of fun and burn A LOT of CALORIES!!!!

WHERE YOUR GROIN PROTECTION!!!!

I also recommend you look for someone that can be your partner. Someone that has equal commitment to similar mma goals as you. This is a great way to learn and practice all the many techniques and drills that you will be introduced to.

Happy training and I'll see you on the mat!

You can also participate in this training in our MMA class. For more information about our MMA classes go HERE.

Positive, safe, and clean Martial Arts School for Kids and Families

Your Mount Laurel Martial Artist and Dinoto Karate Center are on an endless quest for martial arts excellence. To enhance service to our members and our community, we promise to: Help individuals achieve their goals as a person and a martial artist. Provide a positive, safe, and clean environment for all our students and our families. Keep the safety of our students as our primary concerns. Always teach self-discipline above self-confidence. Instill the values of respect, discipline, confidence and self-reliance. Build and enhance our system of martial arts. Provide the atmosphere of unity that extends out to our family and community.

All Martial Arts Schools Are Not Created Equal.

Mount Laurel martial arts Dinoto Karate Center are celebrating its 18th year in business in Mount Laurel, changing the lives of their students one class at a time. Those who study and train at Dinoto Karate Center enjoy the additional benefits of improved health, a new body awareness and a sense of accomplishment that comes from learning something truly worthwhile.

It’s Great For Kids

Martial Arts is good, clean fun for kids…and a great way to give kids a head start in life. At Dinoto Karate Center, they’ll learn the positive benefits of self-discipline and confidence, develop coordination and increase strength and flexibility. Because a structure of respect is built into martial Arts, children develop the ability to listen, learn, and achieve within a highly related environment. This proves to be an excellent reinforcement of study techniques for school.

It’s Not All Serious

Just ask the kids. We regularly have social functions, pizza parties, sleepovers and movie nights. Our goal is to create an atmosphere of success and accomplishment, making sure all kids feel great about themselves as they make their journey towards Black Belt. We make learning challenging as well as enjoyable. Not only do our students learn the most, they have the most fun too!

Winners Don’t Wait

Now is the Time. Why put it off? Sign up right now for the trial program. Get your child or yourself on the road to self-discovery that will make every stage in life easier. So what are you waiting for?

Email: info@americanblackbelts.com

http://americanblackbelts.com/

This blog is part of the Ultimate Black Belt Test Program ( http://www.ultimateblackbelttest.com/ ), which is an undertaking of The 100. ( http://www.the100.us/ ), and a part of Peter Liciaga's Dream 100 Project.

5 Core Beliefs (from the Dream 100 website)

Over the next several weeks I will share great lessons from Kyoshi Dave Kovar's Instructor Boot Camp manual on the Mount Laurel martial artist's Dream 100 resource site. Familiarize yourself with the concepts and principles and do your best to incorporate them in your life, not just on the training floor but every where you go. These are concepts for life. If you want to find out more about Kyoshi Dave, go here.

Share, if not teach, these concepts to everyone you know.

Let's get started...yes?

THE FIVE CORE BELIEFS

There are 5 core beliefs that you must embrace if you aspire to be the best black belt, master, teacher (person) you can possibly be. They are:

1. You are the friendliest person in town...and where you are (the dojang, your job, or school, every where!) it is the friendliest place in town! Everyone should feel welcome. You say hello to everyone, greet everyone, if appropriate, shake their hands. What if every where you went there was someone there that would be responsible for insuring that you have a great experience? Wouldn't that be great? Well, guess what? You are it! You are that black belt training for mastery! So....every where you go lives must be transformed because YOU are there! No small task. That's why it takes a "master", yes?
2. You are the healthiest person (and cleanest) in town...and every where you live and work is the cleanest place in town. Think about it. Going to shop or business that is not clean does not instill confidence that you (or your children) will not have the healthiest experience or the BEST service in town! My goodness, it's dirty and with germs, simply because they did not see you as important enought enough to sanitize and clean.
3. You only train in and teach "great" classes, never just "good"...and all the classes you train in and teach / assist are GREAT classes...because YOU are there! Have it your purpose to train hard and to teach / assist the best classes you will ever teach / assist!
4. You are excellent at communication. The ability to communicate to students, parents, other instructors (and even to yourself!) MUST be an on-going endeavor. Master the art of communication.
5. Every day you spend quality time sharing your martial arts experience with someone new AND inviting them to find out more about martial arts. With all the GREAT things that are happening in your life because of your martial arts training --and there should be GREAT things happening!-- you must spend quality time "sharing/telling your story". You can do it in face-to-face in person, or through emails, letters, postcards, or blogging, Facebook, Twitter, video's, pictures, etc -- any and every way possible...get creative! I truly beleive that you (we) are a light in someone's world. There is a saying that says, "would you light a candle just to cover it?" As black belts striving for mastery, we become a light for many who are challenged just like we are with personal growth and development. Martial arts has become the environment the we have developed and continue to hone skills that bring us growth and significance. If we can be a light, even hope, to just one person, should we not let it shine?

This blog is part of the Ultimate Black Belt Test Program (www.UltimateBlackBeltTest.com), which is an undertaking of The 100. (www.The100.us), and a part of Peter Liciaga's Dream 100 Project.

Combat Fitness Training in MMA class for Mount Laurel Martial Artist

This week your Mount Laurel martial artist, Peter Liciaga, will be starting the Combat Fitness Training routines in our MMA classes.

Over the next several weeks your Mount Laurel martial artist, Peter Liciaga, will be going through a series of fitness training exercises that are called Combat Fitness Training. These are short workouts, that are usually 10 or 11 minutes long, will be added to our MMA class, are martial arts specific workouts that are drawn from CrossFit, Tabada, Monkey Fit and other new concept gym fitness concepts.

The idea is to make sure that you get a great workout that is varied yet practical and functional for your MMA training. We're going to start the CFT this first week by going through what is referred to as our Bench Mark Fitness Test. This is a series of exercize that give you an idea of where your fitness level is at any given point of time. The series was designed by my friend, Dave Kovar. You can see a video of the workout and record your time HERE.

You can also participate in this training in our MMA class. For more information about our MMA classes go HERE.