Re: Article: Cross-Training by Lynn Seiser
Given the entire universe of potential human movement and martial expressions, it is appropriate that each system of martial movement focus on its core philosophy, principles and applications. There is no "one best system". Each has its strengths and weaknesses. Each seeks to exploit the other's weakness, by harnessing its own strengths. Yet, each system is "complete" in its own paradigm, however limited that paradigm may be.
In my very short time (18 years) in the martial arts, I have done TKD, arnis, taiji, koryu uchinadi, and aikido. I am currently studying jujitsu. I still feel I have a lot more to learn and a long way to go yet.
Perhaps Forrest Morgan sums it up best in his book, "Living the Martial Way": we each need to find our own path, to seek out and learn a primary art, one that suits our body type, movement style and personal philosophy. And then to supplement or complement our primary art with other arts, to round out our own development. I believe that it is sometimes easier to obtain a deeper perspective of one's own primary art, from a broader perspective of active participation in other art forms, not necessarily martial.
After all, we, as individuals, are defined by the path we take, and the lessons we learn along the way. To limit ourselves to one system, one art form, creates a one dimensional attitude. We are multi-faceted, multi-dimensional beings in a multi-dimensional world.
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