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Expert: Jamey D. Olsen - 8/12/2006


Question
I'm an orange belt tkd. I'm having a problem maintaining my balance and as a result my basics are pretty bad. I know that I have the flexibility to do alot of the kicks that my instructers are teaching, its just that during the execution of the kick I tend to lose my balance and end up making a mess of the kick and most of the time ending up with my rear end on the floor. My instructers told me to keep my head level, stair straight ahead rather than looking down at the postion of my feet. How do I make my balance better????? Thanks.
Nellie


Answer
Nellie,

One method I like to use is I start with a student holding a chair with one hand, while keeping the other hand up.  With the chair not in the way of the intended kick chamber your kicking leg.  If you are training body kicks it is ideal that you get your leg up to be level (we used to put a book or pad on our legs), then slowly extend the kick out, hold it for a few seconds and then re-chamber it.
This is a method you can use at home to build balance and as you get better use the chair less.  I would practice all the basic kicks this way as they are the basis for the higher level kicks.
I hope this helps.
If you need anything else please feel free to write back.
JD

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Jamey D. Olsen

Expertise

I can answer a wide range of questions - the pros and cons of many different arts, what works and what doesn’t, the differences between styles, as well as the history of styles or origins. I can advise on proper technique, how to apply techniques, or answer "How would you defend this?" type questions. I also have an extensive library of books and videos, so if you ask me about something I haven’t trained, I have the resources to track down an answer for you. I am also involved in the growing sport of MMA (mixed martial arts). For more detailed information on me and what I train and teach please check out my website www.keishidojo.com

Experience

I've studied the martial arts for more than 27 years. I hold Black Belts in Tae Kwon Do, Shorei-Ryu Karate, American Karate, Aikido, Jiu-Jitsu, Kali, and Zembujitsu. I have also trained extensively in Judo, Jun Fan Jeet Kune Do (JKD), Escrima, Arnis, Wing Chun and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA.) In 2006 the Martial Arts Unlimited Association awarded me my school name the Keishidojo. Which means "Training Place of the Dedicated Warrior." These school titles are granted after Instructorship is achieved. I have been an instructor for various martial arts for over 10 years and have taught seminars on various subjects. I am also a certified BACK OFF! instructor, Seld-Defense Training and Education Program - S.T.E.P. instructor, and Kid Special Abduction Failure Education S.A.F.E. program creator. I have also taught classes to U.S. Military Special Forces, and U.S. and foriegn law enforcement. Currently stationed at Shaw Air Force Base in Sumter South Carolina, I have a martial arts school at the base fitness center. For information about classes, my credentials or other information go to www.keishidojo.com.

Organizations
American Martial Arts Association
Progressive Martial Arts Association
United States Martial Arts Association
Martial Arts Unlimited Association

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Currenty working.

Awards and Honors
1st Degree Black Belts - Tae Kwon Do
2nd Degree Black Belts - Aikido, Kali, Jui-Jitsu, Karate, Mixed Martial Arts Total Fighting Concepts - Submission Fighting

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