Kung Fu, MMA & BJJ in 2026
Kung Fu and traditional martial arts are not only relevant in the age of the UFC and BJJ; they are arguably more necessary than ever for the modern human. The common perception that “traditional” means “impractical” is a misunderstanding of what these systems were designed to achieve and how they have evolved to meet contemporary […]
Beyond the Form: Why Ground Fighting is the Missing Piece in Traditional Kung Fu
For many of us, the journey into martial arts begins with the beautiful, flowing movements of traditional Kung Fu. We are drawn to the intricate forms, the powerful strikes, and the rich, centuries-old history that defines the art. It’s a path of discipline, physical mastery, and profound philosophy. But as we advance, a practical question […]
Ditang Quan Jiu Jitsu: Ground Fighting & the Hidden Roots of Kung Fu Grappling
Iron Mantis Martial Arts: Where Tradition Meets Combat Reality At Iron Mantis Martial Arts, we believe that real martial skill comes from balance — the harmony between tradition and evolution, between art and application. That’s why our approach blends the ancient with the modern — combining the refined techniques of Kung Fu with the functional […]
Beyond Punches and Kicks
The Holistic Benefits of Joining an Iron Mantis Club When you picture joining a martial arts club, perhaps images of intense physical training, sparring, and self-defense techniques immediately come to mind. And while these are certainly part of the journey, traditional systems like Iron Mantis Kung Fu offer a depth that reaches far beyond mere […]
Iron Mantis: More Than Martial Art, It’s a Legacy – Discover Its Unique Origins
In the vast world of martial arts, styles evolve. Some adhere strictly to ancient traditions, while others adapt, blend, and innovate. Iron Mantis stands as a fascinating example of the latter – a system deeply rooted in history yet forged for modern effectiveness. It’s more than just a collection of techniques; it’s a living legacy, […]
Discipline, Respect, and the Warrior’s Path to Success
Have you ever found yourself stuck in the same loop—wanting change, but unwilling to do the hard things that bring that change to life? You’re not alone. We’ve all danced with insanity: doing the same thing over and over, expecting different results. It’s like losing your keys in the dark but looking under the streetlight […]
Inside the Home Kwoon: A Traditional Kung Fu Training Hall
https://youtu.be/adsrV6qvAus A Personal Martial Arts Sanctuary For many dedicated martial artists, having a personal space to train is essential. My home dojo is set up as a traditional Kung Fu “kwoon” a garage gym designed to support all aspects of training—conditioning, strength development, striking, and grappling. Over the years, wherever I’ve lived, I have always […]
Mastering the Jab Parry and Counterstrike
https://youtu.be/2tzIdhDFgrw?si=ALYOQopMzg8j0iQ6 When it comes to blocking a jab and returning a strike, maintaining your fight stance is crucial. A common mistake is overcommitting to the block, which can leave you exposed and unable to reach your opponent. By refining your parrying technique and returning strikes efficiently, you can enhance your defense and offense simultaneously. Maintaining […]
When to Stick to Your Opponent & When to Disengage | Bridging Theories in Martial Arts
https://youtu.be/k_0Pws1cgJk?si=5jCWoJ3iAGLHxNls In martial arts, the decision to maintain contact with an opponent—known as “sticking”—or to disengage is crucial and can significantly influence the outcome of an encounter. This concept is deeply rooted in various martial arts philosophies, including the bridging theories, which emphasize the importance of managing distance and contact during combat. Understanding Bridging and […]
My Journey from Reluctant Teacher to Martial Arts Mentor
When I first moved to Austin, Texas, I never imagined that I’d become a martial arts teacher. It wasn’t part of my plan. In fact, when Sifu Raymond Fogg and Sigung Henry Chung encouraged me to start teaching, I hesitated. I thought, Am I even ready for this? I wasn’t sure if I wanted to […]