Lately, I’ve started getting back to my martial arts roots. I remembered that one of the things that I would do to stay inspired would be to read training manuals and to watch training videos. But it is no longer the 90s and we have YouTube! So, now, I get to mix my training with some of my fandoms, such as watching a video about how many martial arts does John Wick know or real life examples of CQC (close quarters combat) from Metal Gear Solid. There are also the videos that I used to watch for inspiration on there, too. 

I find it amazing how many legitimate martial arts videos there are on YouTube. From Kung Fu to Krav Maga, it is all on there. Having difficulty with a technique? They have it! Curious about a style? It’s there! Heck, wanna watch one of the old school kickboxing matches from the 70’s? They have that, too! I think that, depending on how you are wired, it could be next to impossible to lose motivation with YouTube as a tool.

Now, I want to note that videos cannot replace actual training or actual classtime, but it is a great tool to get you by. Unfortunately, I am relegated to solo training, but I am ok with that. Along with the techniques and forms that I already practice, if I come across something new, I’ll have my virtual training partner to help me along the way!