If you have been following Dai Master Raf in the first three parts of this series you will understand and appreciate his ‘Fit for Life’ philosophy. You will certainly value Xen-Do’s safe and fun environment and might even be following our January Fitness and Detox programmes.

One question often asked is ‘why is Xen-Do always emphasising safety and fun rather than focusing on ever more powerful fighting techniques?

”Two reasons,” says Dai Master Raf, “firstly most people are not looking to fight or train in that environment, secondly Martial Arts were developed to aid the Shaolin monks with their meditation, self defence was secondary.

This is why so many people looking to take up Kickboxing and Martial Arts are so impressed when they attend a Free Trial session with Xen-Do, they feel the energy, adrenaline and endorphins flowing but are not at all intimidated by the other students, moreover someone taking up Kickboxing and Martial Arts for the first time will make rapid progress with Xen-Do.”

Isn’t ‘Beautiful Warrior’ a contradiction in terms I hear you say?

”Bruce Lee is the best one to answer this” says Dai Master Raf:

“Be like water making its way through cracks. Do not be assertive, but adjust to the object, and you shall find a way around or through it. If nothing within you stays rigid, outward things will disclose themselves. 

Empty your mind, be formless. Shapeless, like water. If you put water into a cup, it becomes the cup. You put water into a bottle and it becomes the bottle. You put it in a teapot, it becomes the teapot. Now, water can flow or it can crash. Be water, my friend.” 
― Bruce Lee

So what is Dai Master Raf planning for the Xen-Do School of Kickboxing and Martial Arts in 2015?

”We will focus on teaching new and existing students the new curriculum which will allow them to make more progress in their fitness and Kickboxing and Martial Arts skills than ever before and introduce a new grading structure for the senior students so their development really is continuous” says Dai Master Raf. ”I expect more people looking to take up Kickboxing and Martial Arts will be seeking a Club such as Xen-Do where they will feel safe and enjoy being part of a great community.

As I said in part one, choosing a Kickboxing and Martial Arts Club is an important step, be sure to visit and see the sessions for yourself, better still come and enjoy a free trial session at one of our three Xen-Do Kickboxing and Martial Arts Clubs in London, experience what I am saying then decide.”

This article is based on opinion:
– the author is not a qualified doctor or anyone who can dispense medical advice.
– any opinions stated are just that and people should consult a doctor before making any dietary changes or changes of any nature prompted by the articles published by or on behalf of Xen-Do.
– under 16’s please obtain parental permission before posting anything online.