Comparison of Jiǎo Lì and Shǒubó
Jiao Li (角力) and Shoubo (手搏) are often discussed together in modern scholarship because they appear within the same historical framework of early Chinese unarmed combat. Researchers such as Stanley …
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Category: Martial Arts Research
Dive into the rich history, stories, and journeys within the world of martial arts, exploring historical and research-oriented aspects across a diverse range of topics.
Jiǎo Lì (角力)
Definition and General Overview Jiao Li (角力) is one of the earliest documented forms of organized unarmed combat in Chinese history. The term is usually translated as “wrestling” or “grappling,” …
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Shǒubó (手搏)
Definition and General Scope Shoubo (手搏) is usually translated as “hand combat” or “hand-to-hand fighting.” According to several scholars who study early Chinese sources, the term appears in classical literature …
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Bullshido vs Karate Tradition, Part 2/2
This is the second part of Bullshido versus Karate Tradition. Building on my previous article, I will continue how to distinguish true martial skill from superficial or deceptive techniques. Bullshido …
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Bullshido vs Karate Tradition, Part 1/2
This is the first article in my series exploring the differences between Bullshido and traditional karate. I will examine what truly defines authentic karate practice and how it contrasts with …
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Digging into the Mysterious Bubishi
I have returned to exploring the mysterious Bubishi. It has long fascinated martial artists around the world, including me. The Bubishi is often called the “Bible of Karate”. It combines …
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Meaning of Martial Arts
Origin and Meaning of “Martial” The word “martial” comes from the Latin word “Mārtiālis,” meaning “related to Mars”. Mars was the Roman god of war and also an agricultural guardian, …
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The worn-out word Karate
Today, the word “Karate” is thrown around so loosely that it barely means anything anymore. For some, it means kids in white uniforms yelling while earning participation trophies. Others picture …
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Shorin vs Shorei
Exploring the Interconnection Between Shorin and Shorei in Okinawan Martial Arts Introduction Okinawan martial arts are renowned for their depth, diversity, and philosophical foundations. Central to these traditions are the …
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Kusanku and the Ōshima Hikki incident
The historical intersection of cultures often brings forth tales of remarkable individuals whose impacts reverberate through the annals of time. In the context of Okinawa’s rich martial arts heritage, the …
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