They might be barefoot sports but there was no tiptoeing around in the martial arts of Kendo, Karate, Taekwondo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at the Army Martial Arts Association Championships at Aldershot Garrison. The physically demanding combat sports are lesser-known sports for the Army. However, the stakes are high for the competitors because up for grabs are opportunities to compete on the national, international and world stages against top civilian teams, with worldwide travel to competitions. Secretary of the Martial Arts Association Captain Mathew Frost of the Queen’s Royal Hussars, who is a Black Belt in Kendo, explains what happens in his discipline: “Kendo is Japanese fencing derived from Samurai, using bamboo swords and armour to fight. There’s a lot of shouting involved in Kendo, like there is in all martial arts. It’s all about projecting your spirit and trying to dominate your opponent in the ring, both mentally and physically.” Matt, who is based in Paderborn, has been competing in Kendo for ten years, but has played for the Army for two years. He said: “I’ve always had a fascination with Kendo because it’s so different. And, it’s the only sport that derives from the fact you’re trying to deliver the single killing blow. “Competing brings a mixture of emotions; there’s a lot of adrenaline pumping around. The armour is quite constrictive and the helmet restricts sight and sound so it’s quite claustrophobic. You have to keep an eye on your opponent at all times. Situational awareness is critical because if you lose concentration for a split second you’ll get hit in the head or elsewhere.” Reservist Corporal Hannah Balmford, of Peterborough was competing in WTF (World Taekwondo Federation) Taekwondo. The recruiter and former Regular dog handler practices four days a week. She said: “It’s quite odd being happy about being beaten up by somebody else, but it is really satisfying. It’s quite an adrenaline rush. When you come off, you know youve had a good fight and there’s no hard feelings between you and your opponent.” The newest martial art recognised by the Army Sports Control Board is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), which is similar to Judo - a combat sport that focuses on grappling. The aim of the game is to take the fight to the ground, or in this case mats, applying joint-locks and chokeholds to defeat the opposition. Quite often the smaller opponent can successfully defend themselves against a stronger competitor. Captain Frost concludes: “Martial arts in general have many parallels with the military. They are borne from the military of old and hold a lot of the same values and standards that our military does today. Discipline is a huge part of martial arts, as is respect for others.”
Posted on: Wed, 29 Oct 2014 09:20:17 +0000
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