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  You are here:  AllExperts > Recreation/Outdoors > Martial Arts > Karate

Expert Profile: Michael Cummings

Expertise:  I am available to answer questions in regard to history, philosophy, technique and practice of karate, jujutsu, iaijutsu and kenjutsu. I also have knowledge and experience in Okinawan kobujutsu and traditional Japanese weapons including the jo (short staff) and yari (spear). I also have a good foundation to answer general questions concerning various other Japanese, Okinawan and Chinese styles, including their traditions, history and philosophy.

Experience in the area
I have a diverse background with over 29 years of study and practice in Japanese and Okinawan bujutsu (martial arts). I presently hold dan rankings in karatejutsu, iaijutsu, kenjutsu and jujutsu, respectively, as well as Okinawan kobujutsu. My primary sensei was Watanabe Tsuyoshi Hanshi, and later Makiyama Gogen Shidoshi. I have also studied several Chinese systems, including Hung Gar tiger/crane and wing chun, and hold a black sash (shodan) in Song Shan Kempo. I have been fortunate to have studied and trained with a number of highly qualified and revered practitioners, sensei and sifu from several diverse martial traditions. I am also an amateur marital arts historian and student of hoplology.

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Something interesting about this subject that others may not know:  Karatejutsu employs many of the throws, joint-locks, & grappling techniques more commonly associated with jujutsu. Most of these techniques were removed or fell into disuse in modern karatedo. Now, with the recent surge in popularity of jujutsu and MMA matches, these same techniques are being re-discovered in modern karate. Karatejutsu also utilizes numerous pressure point attacks (kyusho).
What do you still hope to achieve/learn in this field?  To continue my journey in the martial arts and to be able to leave what I learn along the way as a legacy for my sons. I also have several manuscripts covering different martial topics that I hope to one day publish so that I may humbly share what knowledge I have with all who wish to learn.
Something controversial or provocative about this subject  Prior to 1900, Okinawan karate utilized the principle of ikken hissatsu, or one fist, certain death. Today, many modern karateka scoff at the idea of one-punch knockouts or kills. However, with deeper analysis and understanding, and proper instruction, the modern karateka could once again unlock the principles that make karatejutsu's ikken hissatsu a modern reality.
Average Ratings
Prestige Points: 1474
Knowledge   9.97   Best of the best
Clarity of Response   9.91   Best of the best
Timeliness   9.78   Best of the best
Politeness   9.97   Best of the best
Number Of Questions
(in Past 24 Hours)
0
Max Questions to be Asked
(in 24 Hour period)
5
Total Questions
(since joining AllExperts)
120
Recent Reviews from Users
KnowlClarityTimePolitenessDate
10101003/17/08
1010101008/01/08
1010101001/08/08
1010101012/07/07
1010101009/11/07
User Comments
Thanks, Master Cummings. We are trying to contact the person who taught us. I will try to post what I find out.
(David W Reed on 03/17/08)
THE ADVICE WAS NOT ONLY ENCOURAGING, IT WAS ALSO VERY PRATICAL. EVERYTHING WAS EXPLAINED WELL AND NO POINTS WERE OVERLOOKED. THANK YOU VERY MUCH
(Robert on 01/08/08)
Thank you so much for your very thorough and prompt response! I sincerely appreciate the advice and feel much more confident in buying a new set of sais!
(Jennifer on 12/07/07)
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Recent Answers from Michael Cummings
2008-03-15  Origin of form Shem pa David~ Thank you for your question. Sorry I didn't get back to you sooner. I don't have a lot of personal experience with tang soo do, although a good friend of mine studied the Korean arts in the...
2008-02-07  points Brad~ Congratulations on entering military service. It is an honorable calling that few can understand. As for your question, I don't know of any pressure points to alleviate the symptoms you are...
2008-01-07  leg strength Robert~ Thank you for your question. I noticed that you began your question with a reference to leg strength and ended with a reference to control. I will attempt to address both issues. Also,...
2007-12-06  Sais for a 12 year old Jennifer~ Thank you for your question. The sai is one of my favorite weapons, although I must ashamedly admit that I haven't picked a pair up in over a year. It is a graceful weapon when wielded...
2007-11-28  Translation Libby~ Thanks for your question. I don't have any knowledge of a bo kata called susho no kunsho. However, there is a somewhat popular Okinawan kobudo bo kata called Sushi no Kun or Shushi no Kun,...
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