
Handbook Contents
Welcome to Griffin Martial Arts
We have developed a special program to provide you with the following benefits:
- Our emphasis is on establishing discipline and courtesy in each student. The structure of respect is built in martial arts instruction.
- The program builds confidence and character by providing each student with control over his or her body, and developing an ability to stand up to peer pressure and other intimidating situations.
- The movements of martial arts develop coordination and increase strength and flexibility, which are very important throughout your lifetime.
- The awarding of higher levels of sashes or belts can give you a sense of achievement and accomplishment.
- The foundation of martial arts is its self-defense value.
- Finally, Martial arts are good clean fun for children and adults of all ages, and a great way to burn off extra energy and to reduce stress.
Sincerely,
Lester Griffin
New Student Attendance Reward Program
The single most important factor in becoming a Black Belt is not natural talent. Rather, it's regular attendance. Any student who attends regularly should be able to one day receive a highly coveted Black Belt.
Most of the major champions produced at this dojo have been people who did not possess natural talent, did not have above average flexibility, speed, or strength. They did, however, attend regularly and kept working towards the achievement of their goals no matter what else came up in their lives.
Qualification Requirements
To qualify for the first award, you must attend no less than two classes each week for one month.
Griffin Martial Arts Student Handbook
"The Ultimate In Realistic Martial Arts Training"
Griffin Martial Arts is a very unique organization within the Martial Arts Community. Our curriculum is based on the concepts of Jeet Kune Do and emphasizes practical Martial Arts training geared towards producing an individual who will be able to defend themselves at all ranges; standing up, on the ground, against multiple attackers, with and without weapons.
We teach Jun Fan Martial Arts (Bruce Lee's method), Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Grappling, Kali (Filipino Martial Arts), Silat (Indonesian Martial Arts), Muay Thai Kickboxing (Thailand), Savate (French Kickboxing), and Wing Chun Kung Fu (Chinese Martial Art), Tai Chi.
This curriculum is unique the world over. You will not find many legitimate schools that offer that type of training to the general public, but that alone is not the only reason we feel you will find our organization unique.
What We Do
In order to train people to become complete fighters and operate at the highest level possible we draw from the best available arts and training methods:
- Kicking: SAVATE (French Kickboxing) and MUAY THAI (Thai Boxing)
- Punching: WESTERN BOXING
- Close Quarter Combat: Trapping range techniques
- Ground Fighting: BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU, JUDO, SAMBO, DUMOG
- Weapons: Filipino Martial Art of KALI
The Bruce Lee's Progression
Bruce Lee taught that there were three stages to understanding:
- Sticking to the nucleus
- Liberation from the nucleus
- Total liberation (freedom)
Bruce Lee taught in five key stages:
- LEARN: This basic process involves learning the correct 'form' behind each particular motion or drill.
- PRACTICE: This involves consistent correct practice for a sufficient amount of time (repetition).
- MASTER: This involves adding the key elements of 'timing' and 'motion'.
- FUNCTIONALIZE: This involves making the motion work against an uncooperative and resisting opponent.
- MAINTAIN: Just because you have reached a certain amount of proficiency does not mean you can stop training.
Lee Jun Fan Gung Fu: The Art & Philosophy of Jeet Kune Do
With Wing Chun at the core of his system Bruce Lee incorporated a modification of various techniques from Northern Praying Mantis, Southern Praying Mantis, Choy Li Fut, Eagle Claw, Western Boxing, Wrestling, Fencing, Judo, Jiu Jitsu and some of the more refined kicks of the Northern & Southern Chinese styles.
The movements are crisp and efficient, utilizing the most direct lines and angles. JKD affords the practitioner a means by which to effectively pursue the most direct line of attack.
Dan Inosanto
"This letter serves to verify that Dan Inosanto was the senior instructor and student of my late husband, Bruce Lee, and that he is the legitimate practitioner and teacher of Bruce's art of self-defense called Jeet Kune Do..."
Definitions
Boxe Francaise - Savate
Also known as the French Art of Foot Fighting, was developed over 150 years ago. It originated in the streets of French seaport towns as a highly effective means of self-defense.
Thai Kickboxing
The national sport of Thailand where punches, kicks, elbows, knees, and throws are allowed. This Kickboxing art provides a great workout, while developing powerful striking tools, along with effective defensive tactics.
Tai Chi
This internal art benefits the practitioner by increasing blood circulation and flow throughout the body, stimulating the meridian system as well as the circulatory and digestive system.
Pentjak Silat
This vast Indonesian art is greatly respected by the few martial artists who have experienced it. This devastating style is graceful, subtle, and highly effective.
Kali / Escrima
This Filipino art is known for its incredible array of techniques and drills that relate to sword, stick, knife, and empty hand fighting. It is a beautiful and functional art.
The Wing Chun System
This System was invented by a Shaolin Buddhist Nun 400 years ago named Ng Mui, she combined the temples most combat ready fighting arts and got rid of the useless movements.
Common Myths Associated with Teaching
Myth #1
This myth long associated with the more traditional martial arts stems from teaching methods derived from the military...
Myth #2
You must not give your students too much information, too fast...
Myth #3
You must teach a lot of information at once or your students will get bored...
Myth #4
You must not associate with your students in an informal setting...
Myth #5
You should refer to people differently depending on whether they are 'senior' or 'junior' to you in the Art...
A Note From The Instructor
The great thing about this art is the fact that it is, in a sense, many arts. It is like having dinner at a smorgasbord. You have the opportunity to sample many different things and if you like what you see then keep it and make it yours.
- Lester Griffin