This past year, I attended several outdoor rock concerts.
I love these events, not only for the music, but because I am a people watcher. I think you learn so much by observation, wouldn't you agree? This is the type of martial observation that gives you a martial arts advantage.
At this last concert, I noticed tattoos -- lots of tattoos.
Note: This article is not about whether, I personally like tattoos or not. That's irrelevant. Let's not talk about whether I approve of body art.
I did notice a curious phenomenon. There were a large number of tattoos that had a "martial flavor." I saw yin yang symbols, dragons, swords, sai, tigers, fists, and black serpents. Are you wondering right about now what tattoos have to do with getting an advantage in martial arts?
First, try to answer this question:
Why do these folks have martial arts tattoos?
If you can answer that, maybe you'll have the makings of another edge in the martial arts:
* Are they revealing to all that they have some martial arts knowledge? If so, great! I could use the advanced warning. Not so great for them -- useful for me.
* Maybe they have no training whatsoever, and are trying to look tough. I am reminded of the scene in one of the 'Back to the Future' movies, where the kid with the spiked biker's glove quickly hides it, when 'real bullies' enter the malt shop. Gloves and tattoos can make you 'look' tough, I guess ....
* Do these martially-related tattoos represent martial-arts clubs they belong to, military affiliation, or are they just mementos of a night when they were really really inebriated?
If you can figure out the tattoo rationale, then you could have a distinct martial advantage.
You have a big group of people who are blatantly "advertising something" to you. The sign is there -- you just have to be able to understand what you read.
Martial Arts Apology:
I am sorry if my comments on tattoos upset you. I am just telling you some of the reasons why "I" don't have one. I am in no way telling you not to advertise ... whatever it is you are telling the world. A few of you may have your 'branding' conveniently hidden on ... no, no ... don't tell me about your private markings.
We aren't that close. Pointing out that some martial artists reveal their secrets on their arm is not meant to offend. I am trying to make you aware of martial arts advantages you can glean.
If you want to be ready for anyone and anything in a fight, you have lots to consider -- start here with my new, Free ebooklet: Street Fighting -- Ready for Anyone and Anything
Here's a site about punching harder and faster - Free Devastating Punch ebook.
Keith Pascal is a martial-arts writer and has taught martial arts for 25 years.
Source: www.articlecity.com
