World Ju-Jitsu Federation UK, Liverpool (2026)

12/07/2026

So true

Let Them Talk

People will always have something to say. Some will criticize your choices, question your dreams, or laugh at your determination. Do not let their opinions become the limits of your potential. Every meaningful journey attracts attention, and every person who dares to walk a different path will eventually face doubt from others.

The strongest warriors are not those who silence every critic. They are the ones who remain calm while the noise continues around them. Like a lion standing confidently on a mountain, true strength does not demand approval. It comes from discipline, patience, and unwavering belief in your purpose.

In karate, every belt is earned through sweat, sacrifice, and countless hours of practice. The road is never easy. There will be failures, injuries, and moments when giving up seems easier than moving forward. Yet those who keep walking eventually become the example others admire.

Remember, people rarely criticize the road they were brave enough to travel themselves. Most opinions come from those watching from the sidelines, not from those who understand the struggle.

Keep your focus on growth, not gossip. Train harder than yesterday. Stay humble in victory and resilient in defeat. Let your actions speak louder than your words, and let your character become your greatest achievement.

Walk your own path with courage. In the end, success is not measured by how many people believed in you, but by how faithfully you believed in yourself.

11/07/2026

*** SAVE THE DATE!!! ***

Ormskirk and Kirkby Traditional Ju Jitsu are holding a seminar in recognition of the WJJF 50th anniversary.

This seminar is open to other students from clubs within the WJJF group.

Time, cost and line up will be confirmed in the forthcoming weeks.

I look forward to seeing as many of you on the tatami as possible.

09/07/2026

The Weak Points of Samurai Armor: Long-Handled Weapons on the Battlefield

Samurai warfare was never based on strength alone. Victory often depended on understanding an opponent's weaknesses, choosing the right weapon, and using it with precision and discipline. Although the katana has become the most recognizable symbol of the samurai, many warriors relied on long-handled weapons because they offered greater reach, better leverage, and significant advantages against armored opponents.

Heavy samurai armor provided excellent protection against slashing attacks, but it also created vulnerable points around the joints, thighs, neck, knees, and face. Skilled warriors trained to exploit these openings rather than striking the strongest parts of the armor. Every movement was calculated to break an enemy's balance before delivering a decisive attack.

The Nagamaki and Yari (spear) were highly effective for attacking the legs. A low sweeping strike or upward thrust aimed at the inner thigh could destabilize an armored opponent. Once balance was lost, even the strongest warrior became vulnerable to follow-up attacks.

The Naginata, with its curved blade mounted on a long shaft, was valued for its versatility. It could hook behind the knee, catch armor plates, or pull an opponent off balance before delivering a powerful cut. Its combination of reach and cutting ability made it one of Japan's most respected battlefield weapons.

The Bo (staff) was another practical weapon. Although simple in appearance, it could deliver powerful thrusts to the face, throat, or exposed joints. Its leverage also allowed a skilled fighter to redirect an opponent's weapon or force them to lose their footing without relying on a sharp blade.

The Tetsubō (Iron Club) represented overwhelming blunt force. Unlike swords, which depended on cutting edges, the heavy iron club crushed armor through sheer impact. Even when armor was not pierced, the tremendous force could break bones, damage internal organs, or leave an opponent unable to continue fighting. Against heavily armored warriors, blunt weapons were often just as terrifying as bladed ones.

These weapons demonstrate that samurai combat emphasized intelligence over brute strength. A master warrior understood distance, timing, balance, and opportunity. Success came not from attacking blindly but from recognizing weaknesses and exploiting them with discipline and precision.

Traditional Japanese martial philosophy teaches that the greatest victory comes from preparation and wisdom. Every weapon had a specific purpose, and every technique reflected centuries of battlefield experience. The effectiveness of these long-handled weapons reminds us that strategy, adaptability, and continuous training were the true foundations of the samurai spirit.

For generations, these weapons formed an essential part of Japan's military heritage. Today they continue to inspire martial artists, historians, and enthusiasts who appreciate the remarkable combination of craftsmanship, tactical innovation, and unwavering discipline that defined the legendary warriors of feudal Japan.