The Cane- Another Grip Changing Drill

 http://youtu.be/GbPbvT89V_0

Today I am concentrating on measuring the distance of two different ranges with the tip of my cane.

I hold it in the fourth grip (about a third of the way down) and extend my arm. I keep my body still (no stepping yet). 

From this position, I pull the cane closer to my body and grasp it in the fifth grip (a third, a third and a third).

Once again, I extend my arms and measure where the point is.

I switch back and forth between these two ranges. I also practice this on both sides.

This drill is about developing my ability to switch distances (and in this instance that means switching grips).

This is simple enough done once but not so simple when done many times in a few minutes per day (every day of the week, week after week).

Without prejudice

The Cane-Practicing at Various Distances

http://youtu.be/H_hzlxIV0io

The three main distances I practice at in this video all start while I am within range. Therefore, I alos practice keeping my guard up throughout the drill

Without prejudice

The Cane-Six Different Grips on The Cane

http://youtu.be/FbzRJiPn6MY

The distance in training between partners may change from ‘kicking distance to kissing distance’ in a heartbeat. Practice with my bare handed skills should reflect that and so should my practice with the cane.

The six different grips (and their variations) that I take on the cane are designed to do just that.

But it is only by doing these things thousands of times that skill may become ingrained and even then: there are no guarantees.

Without prejudice

Looping Forefist Thrust

http://youtu.be/xfoByWSunTk

A powerful but easy-to-see-coming blow; this should be prefaced with a jab or block or timed so that it catches the attacker when he is unable to stop it (such as advancing in to grab).

Nor should it be used alone. As part of a flurry of blows, this strike as devastating power. A block, straight Forefist thrust and then a looping Forefist thrust followed by more of the same can make a solid dent on a relentless attacker.

Without prejudice

The Cane-Tool for Martial Arts Training

http://youtu.be/K8-fc7seXFs

I use the cane I carry as an aid for walking (much like the back brace I wear for standing). When I was younger, I did not see the need for such accessories. Nowadays, they are no longer accessories but rather ‘necessities’. Therefore, I incorporate them into my training.

Older need not mean decrepit; it can mean smarter.

Without prejudice

Straight Rear Forefist Thrust

http://youtu.be/2d3WSTXYaPY

Exactly like it sounds. A powerful punch that drives forward in a straight line. I turn my hips into the thrust as I drive forward. It is a very versatile technique that fits well as a follow-up both with a jab or a block.

Without prejudice

A Cane-Retention Drill

http://youtu.be/d417Aw9RyEY

The whole idea of practicing with any tool is to improve the overall quality of my art. Thi is a good example of that.

This could be thought of as a basic ‘Retaining-The-Cane’ drill. The idea is to use all my body against my attacker’s hand.  By first stepping closer and grabbing the cane near his grip, I maintain control of the cane. Then I use turning of my body against his thumb to release the cane.

This uses the same concepts practiced in single wrist releases. By practicing with the cane, my empty hand skills are honed.

Without prejudice