Interview with Master Jean Phoenix Le Grand

Master Le Grand

Master Le Grand is an 8th Dan/Degree Black Belt, Head Master, President, Creator & Founder of Lost Legacy™ Martial Arts/Systems, Inc. & all systems within it, under the direct supervision of Grand Master-Monk Dr. Jude Innocent and Grand Master “Tiger” Paul Innocent. He holds Black Belts in Tiger Jude 7 Styles, Tiger Paul Tae Kwon Do Modern Karate-Do, Kodokan Judo,  IOMASDA Ryu/Tetsu Tako Do, Sanuces Ryu Jiu-Jutsu, Ninjutsu/Ninjitsu, New Shaolin Boxing Kung-Fu & Ultimate Bujutsu System. (See his bio and extensive list of qualifications here.)

BKO Kung Fu: How did moving from Haiti to the United States affect your martial arts training?

Master Le Grand: It didn’t affect my training at all being that I was just starting the martial arts at such a young and naive age. Haiti was my introduction to the Martial Arts….My Foundation. The benefits of being in Haiti at that time were that my Mom’s younger brothers were there teaching me what they knew and were taught. As a child you are a sponge and because my family was doing it made it a way of life for me to do it too.

BKO: How were you able to obtain high levels in so many types of martial arts?

Master Le Grand: My main Grand Masters, Monk Tiger Jude Innocent & Tiger Paul Innocent, my Uncles, encouraged cross training in different styles with different practitioners as they did in the past. I was fortunate to be in a family of Martial Artist that knew other Martial Artist which granted me some forms of access into different schools or groups which enlightened me further in the Arts. Later on as I matured, I searched for different schools on my own that caught my interest in philosophy and style. I found myself going to 2 or 3 schools at the same time. One or two in Brooklyn, NY or Queens, NY and the other in China Town, Manhattan, NYC. Those days a lot of schools did not like the idea of you training at another school so I kept it quiet & to myself. Presently, not only am I teaching and training, I am also learning from a 9th Generation Kung Fu Grand Master. The journey never ends for a TRUE Martial Artist.

BKO: You have Ph D. in Martial Arts/Asian Philosophy. What was your thesis on? Could you give us a paragraph or two about it?

Master Le Grand: Yes I have two (2)! I decided to test my knowledge on Martial Arts as an all and further understand the mindset behind it rather than the physical aspects this society seems to promote it as. They were online courses given by the National Dragon Council University of Asian Studies and the International Council of Higher Martial Arts education ran by the World Organizer of Martial Arts. I searched the web for the most prestigious and organized groups that had some of the great names of recognized martial artist I was aware of and sent a request asking how I would obtain such an honor, and the rest is history.

My thesis was/is called “Lost Tao of the Martial Artist”. It is based on my travels as a Martial Artist and the physical, mental/emotional & spiritual journeys I’ve encounter as a student growing into becoming a teacher. The Art of War by Sun Tzu (which I re-wrote the Modern Day version to in another interview in WeMerge Magazine), inspired my format of writing this thesis.

Here is a part from it:

"Kata"

I had many tell me, "why kata? I don’t need that! Show me the real stuff!"

"Those who claim they are Martial Artist and bypass Kata, truly have missed an important aspect to their training no matter what form of martial arts they practice.

Those who seek the arts or who have trained within the arts and disregard the learning of kata, don’t realize if you do kata, you learn the ancient meanings of Kyusho Jitsu (Dim Mak) hidden within your forms which you will find, by many names, in every art. This is why we develop chi breathing (inner power) within our katas applying them to the right strike and/or to the right part of our body when it is in harms way. "

BKO: What time management tools or concepts do you utilize in order to accomplish so much?

Master Le Grand: I’ve always had the skillset creatively to add something into my life if I saw it beneficial and with that came a strong passion to do so. I prioritized my necessities in order to accomplish what was most important in my life at that time. Then I scheduled them strategically throughout my day and week. Time management when scheduling, of course, was the marriage for the two. I set my goals and gave myself a time limit to accomplishing each section so in that way I have a deadline and didn’t find myself frustrated or overwhelmed when the work seemed over bearing. Concentration and focus through the years of martial Arts also played a BIG part!

BKO: There are so many people who learn a few styles and create their own style. What makes your system stand out above the rest?

Master Le Grand: What makes my system different is the acceptance that nothing remains as it is. What I mean by that is that we call our system “an evolving art” meaning that it changes with time. What worked then doesn’t always work now because technology and life itself changes. So we ADAPT. So our techniques, forms, weaponry etc…are always upgraded to flow with the present. LOST LEGACY…bringing back a Legacy that was Lost within “us”. We are the SYSTEM.

BKO: There seems to be a lot of mystery and skepticism around Ninjutsu? Can you draw some lines between myth and reality?

Master Le Grand: I was told, in the mid 90’s by my Ninjutsu Mentor the Late Professor Ronald Duncan Sr (Way of the Winds), that Ninjutsu as a martial arts is very practical so it can be practiced and structured as a full martial arts style as a few are doing so today. As a myth, like any and all folklore/tales in every culture, once passed through mouth to ear and again from mouth to ear each time its roots get changed and creates the stories and legends about the Ninja that exist in this world today. There is evidence on some scrolls that may verify Ninjutsu as a complete martial art system and/or style. In the Togakure Ryu, the Ninja Juhakkei was studied together with Bugei Juhappan, which is the 18 Samurai Martial Art skills. If anything, the way society through the big screens has depicted the “Ninja” is through mysticism, espionage, assassin with no honor, etc. has made it very hard for anyone to see this art form in any way realistic. BUT it is! Ninjutsu can be found in the pre Meiji period, at the Muromachi period, the Edo period and the Azuchi-Momoyama period. My daughter, who is about to go for her Black Belt this year, has reminded me time after time that when we brain storm, research is one of the strong keys to knowing about culture & history. She truly keeps me on my toes because she comes prepared before the battle!

BKO: Tell us about Team Phoenix. 

Master Le Grand: When I moved to Florida from NYC in 2002, I was in search of a group I could train for free to assist me in establishing what my system was about. I needed a Team because I couldn’t do it by myself. The Phoenix is a bird of flame that is immortal and only one can exist at a time. When it is time for it to past, it consumes itself of fire into ashes just to bring itself back again, younger and more vibrant than before. That is who Team Phoenix and Lost Legacy Systems Martial Arts represents. Team Phoenix are specially picked individuals who are either “at risk” to society, can’t afford the martial arts and/or those who were bullied or considered “not popular” enough to hang with the “in” crowd. Team Phoenix is the Demo Team. We do demonstrations at events, schools, fairs, tournaments etc. Team Phoenix continues to “evolve” each year and we continue to look for more members and honorary students of all styles.

BKO: What was it like being on the Ricki Lake show? What was that all about?

Master Le Grand: When I lived in NYC, I was working at New York Sports Club as a Fitness Program Manager. One day, during my lunch break, I was approached by a group of ladies. They asked me what I did for a living because I looked fit with a unique look and carried myself a certain way. I told them I was a personal fitness trainer and a Martial Arts Instructor. They said that they worked for the Ricki Lake Show and would like me to be a part of it.  The title of that show would be “Search for the International Hunk” which demonstrated good physique, verbal skills, and a form of talent which was my Martial Arts! It was an incredible feeling. I felt electrifying because I knew that no one’s talent was going to be like mine. I was jumping, diving, doing isolated poses & throwing kicking combinations. An experience to further demonstrate myself as a Martial Artist and to promote Lost Legacy Systems.  

BKO: What are your 5 to 10 year goals for your system?

Master Le Grand: As any other Dojo would want, in 5 years I look to open another Martial Arts school ran by a student or students who have reached Instructor Status & further promote what we at Lost Legacy Systems represent, which is Traditional Values with a Modern day approach to the Arts. In 10 years, international recognition as an established Martial Arts style such as Judo, Tae Kwon Do, and other forms of Kung Fu.

BKO: Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?

Master Le Grand: Do not ridicule an art or person you see and don’t know much about because the practitioner isn’t as advance as you are. At one time you were at a low skillset and if ego continues to drive you to judging individuals and/or other styles, then you yourself will never see the true meaning to being a TRUE Martial Artist.


BKO Kung Fu: Master Le Grand thank you for taking the time to answer our questions.

Interview with Mackensi Emory - Karate and XMA Expert

karate

Mackensi Emory is winner of 38 world championship titles. She has been shown on ESPN2 multiple times. She also maintains a straight A's at the same time. 

BKO Kung Fu: How do you find time to practice martial arts so much and still maintain an "A" average in school? Most of my friends have a hard enough time just doing one of them?

Mackensi: My schooling has always been very important to me.  My parents and coaches have always stressed school before sports.  If my grades started to suffer then I knew I would need to give up my extra activities and devote more time to my studies.

I grew up from an early age with a busy schedule.  At one point, I was taking gymnastics, dance, piano and karate; as well as going to public school.  I learned to use every minute of spare time wisely.  I would work on my homework while in the car on the way to gymnastics or karate.  I learned time management and how to be very well organized.

  

Not to say this didn't have its challenges.  I had to make some tough choices along the way.  At one point, I was doing competitive gymnastics (thru level 8), competitive sport karate, and competitive dance all at the same time.  My gymnastics practices were requiring between 20 - 25 hours per week alone.  It was clear that there were not enough hours in the day to do everything.  I had to chose just one competitive sport since all three required so much time on their own.  Both my parents work full time jobs so home schooling was out of the question.  I ultimately chose to continue my passion for martial arts, competitive sport karate and tricking.

The most difficult part of balancing my sport karate competitions with school is the time missed due to travel.  Most competitions take place on Friday and Saturday and are on the east coast.  I live in California so this means that I miss at least two days of school when I travel to compete.  In high school, making up for lost time often requires much more work than would be required if I would have been at school on those days.  Some teachers are understanding but others don't understand or support what I do so they treat it like I am on a vacation.  If sport karate were a school sport then it would be much easier as my absences would be excused.  Overall, it takes a lot of effort to balance my sport with school and maintain high grades.

   

BKO: What inspires you to continue winning world championship titles after you have won 38?

Mackensi: I currently hold 38 World Championship titles from different circuits across a number of different divisions (Creative Forms, Extreme Forms, Musical Forms, Traditional Forms, Creative Weapons, Extreme Weapons, Musical Weapons, Traditional Weapons, Team Demonstration and Team Synchronized Forms).  But I don't compete because of the titles or the trophies.  That is not what motivates or inspires me.  I compete against the best competition I can find to help push myself to be the best I can possibly be.  It is those other competitors who really inspire me to keep competing and pushing my own limits.  There are always areas to improve and competition helps me accomplish those goals.  The World Championship titles are just a nice byproduct :)

BKO: What is the trick took you the longest to learn? What changed mentally during the process of learning it?

Mackensi: At the end of 2010, at the age of 14, I became the first female to ever land a double corkscrew.  It took me almost two years to learn the trick and land it consistently.  Because I worked on landing it for so long that meant I had to learn not to become too discouraged and give up along the way.  I had to break down my attempts and look for the smaller improvements and use those as victories and accomplishments in order to keep driving me forward to my ultimate goal.  

BKO: What does it take to make the National Blackbelt League Hall of Fame at the age of 12? (besides hard work and dedication)

Mackensi: The National Blackbelt League (NBL) Hall of Fame is an award is based on being the competitor with the most number of points in a given NBL conference.  I received the award in 2008 and also won 4 NBL Supergrands World Championship titles that same year.

BKO: You have had to deal with some injuries along the way. Can you tell our readers about them and how you were able to progress during that time frame despite them?

Mackensi: I have been pretty lucky as far as serious injuries go.  I have broken my wrist (gymnastics injury), broken my 5th metatarsal bone in my foot, pulled muscles, bruised bones and have had many different bumps and bruises along the way.  It is all part of the sport and I have learned to deal with a certain level of aches and pains.  I train through most of it and adapt my training to deal with any specific injury.  For example, when I broke the bone in my foot, I still practiced and even competed.  I adjusted my practices and focused on what I could do, which is still quite a lot.  I feel it is important to keep the same training schedule as before the injury even if the training itself is modified.   Skipping practices is a habit I don't want to create. 

BKO: What has been your biggest rewards from your training?

Mackensi: My biggest rewards from my training are my physical and mental strength, overall fitness level, learning how to set goals and achieve them and confidence in my abilities.  I feel these will serve me well into my future no matter where that takes me.

BKO: Tell us something about yourself most people don't know.

Mackensi: Aside from martial arts tricks I could already do from practicing gymnastics (flash kick...), the 540 kick was the first trick I learned.  It took me a few days to learn it and I was 8 years old.  Also, I eat carrots at every tournament before I compete.  

BKO: What are you looking to accomplish after you finish school?

Mackensi: After I finish high school, I plan on going to college.   I would also like to move to LA while I am still young and continue to pursue entertainment opportunities.  I also plan to continue tricking, competing, traveling  and teaching seminars.

To find out more about Mackensi Emory visit, http://www.mackensiemory.com

Interview with Linda Vu - Wing Chun - Fitness Expert

Linda Vu

Linda Vu is a Certified Fitness Trainer, Fitness Consultant and Fitness Model. She currently trains at Temple's Wing Chun School. Working with experts in the fitness, self defense and motivational industries, Linda’s team will come to your gym, school or venue to set up an interactive workshop educating your audience with modern day techniques that will inspire, motivate and empower you. Each seminar runs a minimum of one hour with some lasting two or more.

BKO Kung Fu: You have been studying Wing Chun for the last 3 years. What are your 5 to 10 year goals concerning your marital arts training?

Linda: I’ve always been intrigued and fascinated with martial arts.  Initially, like most people who had taken any martial arts class, they want to learn how to protect and defend themselves.  Through my learning process, martial arts had helped me to become mentally and physically stronger.  I knew from that moment, martial arts would always be a part of my life.  Although I’m trained and certified in Wing Chun Kung Fu, I’m also trained in a variety of martial arts such as Close Quarters Combat, Police Defensive Tactics and Practical Self Defense.  My goal is learn as much as I can to master the art and share it with people.  In a perfect world, there would be no crimes but the reality is that crime does happen.  I want to empower people by passing on my knowledge as I want people to feel safe and for them to be able to defend themselves if they’re ever attacked.

BKO: What sets your self-defense seminars apart from women going down to a local MMA school and learning to defend themselves?

Linda: No matter what martial arts style that you’re drawn to, I truly believe they are all good. With that being said, my seminars are NOT focused on one particular style. I have a team of instructors with extensive background in a variety of martial arts such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Japanese Jiu Jitsu, Filipino Eskrima, Tae Kwon Do, Close Quarters Combat, Tai Chi, Wing Chun Kung Fu, Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu, Military & Police Defensive Tactics and more. 

MMA is considered sports martial arts and in my opinion, it’s not practical for realistic situations. My seminars are reality-based self-defense with a team of instructors from variety of martial arts background.  I’ve put a powerful team together giving the women the best and practical self-defense techniques and not just one particular style that wouldn’t help them in the streets.  I’m a very petite woman.  If the techniques works for me, I know it will work for any woman.

I offer seminars locally in and around Las Vegas, Nevada as well as internationally.  Due to the high demand of my seminars, starting this February, my team and I are contracted to go overseas for Armed Forces Entertainment to train the military women.  

BKO: You are only 5 feet tall and weigh 86 lbs. Do people sometimes have a hard time taking you seriously in training self defense? How do you win their confidence?

Linda: I often hear that size doesn’t matter in martial arts.  Quite frankly, I think size does matter but don’t let that determine the outcome.  If size didn’t matter, there would be no need for light or heavy weight categories.  As long as I could remember, I’ve always had to fight harder to be great because there are people out there that can be very dismissive because I’m a petite woman.  Some men treat me like I don’t belong in their boys’ club but that only motivates me to become extraordinary.  Overcoming obstacles help to build character and will only make one stronger.  When I walk into any martial arts studio, I’m judged because of my look and size. Most people don’t expect me to last more than a month.  I know that only in time that I would prove them wrong.  When they realized how serious, focused and how much I’ve excelled is when I know I’ve earned my place to be there and gain their respect.  

You toured with US troops in 2012. Where did you go? Tell us about the most memorable moment.

Linda: In this day and age, you got to be diversified.  Besides martial arts and fitness, I’m also a producing partner at Don Barnhart Entertainment working along side with my husband, Don Barnhart who is an award-winning comedian, to bring entertainment to the troops overseas. 

I made a special appearance to host one of the many comedy shows for the troops.  We were in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar and Djibouti Africa.  It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.  It was an honor to meet all the troops and to show them my appreciation.  They are truly my heroes for fighting for our freedom. 

It was really hard for me, as an independent woman, to actually experience the culture in Saudi Arabia, the most conservative country in the world.  I was told not to look at any man in the eyes and had to wear the full burka in public.  As a woman in Saudi, you were considered second class and have no rights.  Freedom is one of the many things that I love about America and I will never take that for granted.  I count my blessing everyday and it makes me proud to be an American.  

BKO: What's your fitness philosophy?

Linda: Fitness is a lifestyle. Being fit is not about looking good; it’s about being healthy. When you’re healthy, looking good will come naturally.  I work out for how it makes me feel from the inside and not to look good from the outside.  I’m sad when I see a woman starving herself just to fit in a dress.  The logic is to buy a bigger size.  We come in all shapes and sizes and that’s what makes us unique in our own way.  I work out because I enjoy being healthy, not because I have to.  Working out or being active should be a way of life and not just “something to do when you have time”.  People waste too much time doing other things that is insignificant when they should be focusing on being healthy.  Your healthy should be the most important thing.

BKO: What are the 3 hardest things about being a fitness instructor?

Linda: There’s nothing hard about sharing what you love and know. Fitness is fun for me; therefore, it’s really difficult for me to think any part of it as “hard”.  In fitness, “hard” is a strong word. Maybe just some mental difficulties, such as:

1) When someone asks me for fitness advice, I’m always happy to help but it’s hard to give advice      when I realize that person has no intent to follow through. 

2) As a fitness trainer, it’s hard for me to watch an overweight person eating unhealthy food.  It’s       like watching someone killing himself/herself slowly.

3) When I see my clients posting unhealthy food pictures on social media when they know darn            well that it’s not part of my nutritional menu. 

BKO: You offer personal fitness lessons to a select group of clients. Is someone where to qualify as a client, what could they expect from their sessions?

Linda: I specialize in one-on-one women’s fitness training.  I don’t want to train with any woman who is not ready to succeed.  Training is not just “something to do” when there’s nothing else to do.  When someone is committed to training with me at least 5 times a week with a minimum of 30 days, she will see a dramatic change. 

I provide my clients with a personalized nutritional and fitness plan.  My nutritional menu will provide a healthy food choice that anyone can follow.  They’ll be educated in nutrition, learning what food is best for their body, making it easy to reach their goal.  My personal training consist a lot of cardio exercises to slim, trim and tone your body.  Expect a mean and lean workout and expect results.

BKO: What is your favorite album to workout to? 

Linda: I don’t have a favorite album but when it comes to music and working out, there’s only one genre for me.  It’s got to be techno music.  I love working to the fast beat.  When I hear the fast beat, my body is ready to turn it up and sweat.  There’s nothing like it when you’re in the moment!

BKO: What movie inspires you the most and why?

Linda: There are a lot of great movies out there but the one that I can relate to the most is G.I. Jane with actress Demi Moore.  The film tells the fictional story of the first woman to undergo training in U.S. Navy Special Warfare Group. Although the movie did not get the best ratings but I find it entertaining and inspiring.  I know what it’s like when all odds are against you.  You’ve got to be strong and break through those barriers no matter how tough the situation may be.  Demi Moore was beautiful, strong an intelligent.  Those are the combined characteristics that I’m drawn to in real life and not one without the other.

BKO: We want to act on TV or in the movies when we leave school. Since you have done many things with film, like starring, producing and Production design, can you give us three tips on starting a film career?

Linda: Entertainment is a crazy business and at the same time can be very rewarding.  There are so many branches in the film industry.  Many people move to Hollywood thinking that they’ll be a big star but a lot of them end up broke after a few years and give up.  It’s good to have goals and dreams.  Stay focused on what you want to do and plan out how you’re going to get there.  Like anything else, if it were easy, everybody would be doing it.  Depending what kind of work you want to do, get out there and network.  If you want to be an actor - Get an acting agent, enroll in an acting class and make sure you’ve got a teacher with high credentials.  Always look good when you’re out in public, you never know whom you’re going to meet.  Learn everything you can so when an opportunity comes along you’re always prepared.  Lastly, stay positive and don’t be late!

BKO: Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?

Linda: I want to thank everyone who has been there with me through my journeys - my family, friends, kung fu family, my self-defense team, and my fans.  Life was never easy for me growing up, I worked hard to get to where I’m at in life and to be independent.  I set my goals high and I’ve accomplished everything that I’ve ever wanted.  However, that doesn’t mean it stop here.  I truly believe we evolve and be even better in time.  No matter where you are in life or what your obstacles may be, stay focus on your self.  If you’re looking at what other people are doing, you’re not paying attention to yourself.  Get serious, get focused and get out there and live your dreams!

For more about Linda Vu, visit www.lindavu.net

Interview with Stefan Morawietz - Wushu Expert

Stefan Morawietz

Stefan Morawietz is a Wushu Expert from Germany and was on the National Wushu Team. He has spent many years doing movies and TV shows in Shanghai and Hong Kong. He has done very well for himself in this field and is a well-known star in the Eastern market. He also played a role in our favorite film IP Man 2. 

BKO Kung Fu: What does it take to qualify for a national Wushu team? Is it as tough as making the Olympics? What's the tryouts like?

Stefan: When I was competing, you had to be National Champion in at least one of the so-called Wushu standard disciplines. In my case, these were Nanquan (Southern Fist), Qiangshu (spear), and Jianshu (straight sword). Apart from these, I used to be a multiple gold medalist in the traditional forms, as well… with Zuiquan (Drunken Style) probably being my favorite. 

I started out in the mid-eighties, when the international level was still somewhat low… meaning, it was much easier back than to make it into the National Team than it is today. 

Moreover, although we had difficult elements like aerials and butterfly twists at the time, the technical bar has risen considerably since and the sport has become even more acrobatic.

Is it tough? You bet. The sacrifices you have to make, the time, the hard cash and the amount of energy you need to pour into a sport as demanding and complex as Wushu are immense. But, since Wushu is far from being a popular sport with the crowds, this can be a fairly thankless task. Without really loving this sport, you’re bound to feel like fighting a lost cause at times. But, I’m not complaining. Wushu has enriched my life in many ways, and if I had to do it all again, I wouldn’t hesitate one second.

BKO Kung Fu: Tell us about Wushu training in China.

Stefan: For a foreigner, there are various possibilities of joining Wushu classes in China. There’s the tiny backyard clubs, the legions of private teachers, the official university classes, open training groups in public parks, the big schools and academies like the ones at the Shaolin- or the Wudang monasteries, etc. 

It pretty much depends on your goals, your budget, your connections, and last but not least your language skills. Having said that, quality is definitely not always price-related.

Thanks to some good "guangxi", I had the privilege to train with the pro teams of Zhejiang and Hebei for several months, which was a hell of an experience. There were 8 hours of training minimum each day. A typical training day went like this: 6.00 am - running, 7:00 am - breakfast, 8.00 am - training (mostly basics, jumps, and kicks), 12:00 am - lunch, 2:00 pm - training (e.g. bare-handed routines, weapons), 6:00 pm - dinner. Day in, day out.

BKO Kung Fu: What tends to be the hardest thing for people to grasp when they learn Wushu? How do you suggest they overcome these hurdles?

Stefan: Tough question. There is no one-fits-all answer to this. One of the big problems of modern Wushu seems to be that it has a bit of an identity crisis. A lot of people, even in China, are not sure how to pin down Wushu anymore… sport, combat, self-defense, art form, philosophy? Everybody has a different approach and focus.

If you dig the new Olympic version, you need to understand this, apart from passion and discipline, it takes a good deal of the right genetics to make it to the top. It’s become a competitive sport, after all. A lot of young athletes have talent in spades, but lack the necessary willpower. On the other hand, many have tremendous willpower, but aren’t blessed with the right genetics. In both cases, on an international level, you have less chance of success than a snowball in hell.

Another important thing is finding a good instructor. A word of advice from me in this regard: a top champion is not necessarily a top teacher. But how will you be able to tell? In my case, I learned more from one teacher in an hour than I had learned from another one in years. You know it when you see it.

BKO Kung Fu: How did you land your very first role in film? What did you do that lead up to the audition?

Stefan: That was pretty much by accident. Li Yanlong, my coach at the time, had a good rapport to Lan Haihan, a long-standing member of Sammo Hung’s stunt team and a well-known action director in China. One day, they needed some German-speaking actors with fighting skills for a Mainland Chinese TV production. They rang my coach up and asked him if he knew anyone fit for the job. So, I hopped on a plane to Shanghai, auditioned, got the part, and ended up staying in China for more than six years. 

BKO Kung Fu: What's the difference in becoming a stunt actor in East Asia vs the United States.

Stefan: The main difference is, of course, in China you’re a foreigner. And this is just why you get hired. They need your face. So, when it comes to stunt work, we’re talking mainly fighting roles, plain and simple… the typical foreign devil stuff. This means that basically all the Caucasian action actors in Asia are martial artists or pro Wrestlers.

For all the other types of stunt work, they prefer Asian stuntmen. They’re not only much cheaper, they don’t give a damn about safety and insurance, either… plus, there’s an inexhaustible supply of young guys trying to become the next Jackie Chan. There’s a saying in the movie industry: you pick up a stone in China, and there’s a thousand Chinese stuntmen underneath. 

As a stuntman in the United States or Europe, you’re mainly a stunt double, and nobody is ever going to see your face. Normally, over here you need to be a member of a well-established stunt team to get jobs, whereas in China a Caucasian stunt actor is pretty much a lone wolf with a local agent.

BKO Kung Fu: Tell us what it was like to be on the set of IP Man 2. This is our favorite movie. 

Stefan: It was pretty cool, as you can imagine. Sure, there were some problems… long working hours, low pay, that kind of thing. There was some deadline pressure, too, and sometimes the atmosphere on the set got pretty heated. But meeting Donnie and Sammo in the flesh made up for it all, no question. Donnie is a pro to the core, keeps to himself, mostly. Sammo is a super-nice guy, very funny, sociable and considerate. He was recovering from heart surgery at the time of shooting, but you wouldn’t have been able to tell. A real tough nut. 

Great experience, all in all.

BKO Kung Fu: What is has been your greatest accomplishment in life? Why?

Stefan: I sincerely hope I haven’t accomplished my greatest purpose yet. That would be a bit of a downer. The best is yet to come, as they say. 

BKO Kung Fu: Have you ever been star struck? Tell us about one instance?

Stefan: I’m not an easy one to impress. I learned pretty fast that actors or "stars“ are just people, too. Some are nice, some are not so nice… and quite a few of them take themselves way too seriously.

But to be honest, there has been one incident when I was really blown away by an actress… and that was on the set of Ultraviolet, when Milla Jovovich said "Hi!" and flashed her mesmerizing smile at me. She’s a real beauty, and no matter what other people say, I found her extremely friendly and down-to-earth.

BKO Kung Fu: What's your favorite quote?

Stefan: I don’t have a favorite, really. Lots of smart people have said lots of smart things. There is a line from Arthur Schopenhauer I like a lot, though. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find an official English translation of it. It goes somewhat like this: "While using quotes may account for your claim to erudition, it will certainly deprive you of your claim to originality."

BKO Kung Fu: Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?

Stefan: I’d like to thank all of you guys for still showing an interest in my movie and stunt work. But this stage of my life is drawing to a close, I’m afraid. I’m turning 50 this year, meaning it will get much quieter in this department for me from now on. I’m about to conquer new frontiers, though, and I’m looking forward to meeting those new challenges. Stay tuned!

Thank you Stefan for taking the time to answer our questions. We look forward to watching these new frontiers being conquered.

Interview with Roxy "Balboa" Richardson - Muay Thai

Roxy "Balboa" Richardson

Roxy has a truly inspiring story with her Muay Thai experience. (Read it here). She became the IAMTF Women's Lightweight Champ from 2008 & 2009. She held a pro record of 3W-1L and an Amateur record of 12W-4L-3T. She currently owns and operates an ultra modern, highly successful fitness center in the Los-Angles area.

BKO Kung Fu: We have spoken with other women Muay Thai fighters. Some of them feel women don't get enough recognition in the sport. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

Roxy: I think women who are talented and skilled get plenty of coverage. The top women of Muay Thai are a big draw and definitely command respect. Just look how popular Julie Kitchen became. The fight with Julie vs Miriam Nakamoto was very much anticipated and closely followed and covered. Tiffany Van Soest is headlining the next Lion Fight card in Vegas. Talented women do get respect in the sport.  There are just not as many female fighters so guys are covered more in the press overall. I don't want special treatment for being a female, so I don't expect anyone to give me respect or recognition unless I earn it via skill not gender. 

BKO: What would you tell a new person that wanted to fight but was scared?

Roxy: Well, no-one should make you fight if you don't want to. I'd hope they had been training for a while and had some time to think about why they want to fight. It's not for everyone. If you're confident in your training, your coach believes in you and you have a solid reason you want to fight, I say focus on the reason and know every fighter gets nerves before fights - It's how you deal with the nervous energy that makes you a good fighter. Personally I keep focusing on how hard I've work and how much I want to win and keep the negative self talk away. 

BKO: How did you encourage yourself before your fights?

Roxy: I would just trust my coach and my training. If I put in the work the results showed. It also helped to journal and get my thoughts down on paper if I felt anxious or stuck.

BKO: In your opinion, what determines the difference in technique between a good fighter and a great fighter?

Roxy: Technique is only one part of being a good fighter. Conviction, conditioning and strength also come into play. There are great fighters with excellent technique and there are great fighters with fair technique but they are strong, fast, and confident which goes far. It's always good to learn and improve technique, but you have to realize there are other elements to the sport which must also be improved to be a well rounded fighter.

BKO: How do you tell if you are pushing yourself to far in training versus not training hard enough?

Roxy: I would monitor my sleep, mood and performance. Signs of over training include insomnia, irritability, and lack of energy. As I got older I realized that sometimes it was better to rest more than train more. 

BKO: There's a lot of shin banging going on in Muay Thai. After the much talked about Anderson Silva's leg break, we would like your advice on how to keep this from happening to us.

Roxy: Turn your kicks over so you can hit with the hard top of your shin. Assuming you have done the work to condition you shins, your leg won't break that way. It takes time, years to condition your shins with bag work, sparring and TLC and even the toughest shins can feel pain if they mistakenly hit a knee or an elbow - it's just part of the game, so time your kicks well and do your bagwork on hard bags. 

BKO: Tell us about your Gym and what you want to accomplish with it in the next few years?

Roxy: My gym is called  Function 5 Fitness in Los Angeles, CA. It's a hybrid gym with the heart of our programs being Muay Thai, but we also offer Kettlebell Classes, Circuit Training, Personal Training, and Nutrition. We are unique in that we offer our clients a well rounded fitness and health program with everything from sport to nutrition to resistance training to massage. I'm blessed to have an amazing team of trainers that help to coach our clients. In the next few years, we plan to expand to a bigger facility so we can help even more people change their lives with Muay Thai, health & fitness. 

BKO: Ok, we have to ask. We saw you offer Rofling at your location. What is it?

Roxy: Rolfing is a type of body work that is structural therapy. It's like deep tissue massage, but different, it's a 10 session system designed to re-structure the body back into balance. It is very beneficial for those struggling with postural imbalances and also for athletes. 

BKO: What's your favorite quote?

Roxy: I have so many but here is one:  "I'm tough, ambitious and I know exactly what I want, if that makes me a bitch, okay." - Madonna

BKO: Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?

You can follow me on twitter @roxybalboa and on Facebook at Facebook.com/missroxybalboa I'm also on Instagram as @missroxybalboa 

Interview with Nicolas Gregoriades - Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Nicolas Gregoriades - Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Nicolas Gregoriades is an expert in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and owner of Jiu-Jitsu Brotherhood. He was the first person to be awarded a black belt by Roger Gracie. He was featured in Martial Arts Illustrated in 2009 and has won the following competitive titles:  

Paris Open Champion
(2006)

London Open Champion
 (2005)

ADDC-UK Champion
(2006)

S. African National Grappling Champion (2005), Grappler of the Year – France (2007), Gracie Invitational Champion (2006, 2007), Absolute Submission Fighting Winner (2008, 2009), British Open Grappling Champion (2009), Abu-Dhabi Pro European Qualifier (2010), British Open Champion (2012)

BKO Kung Fu: You started with Submission wrestling (after Judo) when you couldn't find Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training in South Africa. What is the difference between the two?

The major difference is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is usually practised in a 'Gi' or 'Kimono', whereas Submission Wrestling is usually performed in shorts and a t-shirt (or rashvest).

BKO: Were you the first black belt with Roger Gracie because you were one of the first to train with him or were you just so dedicated you bypassed everyone else? What made the difference. 

Nicolas: That's a difficult question. I think it was a combination of the two. I focused all my mental and physical resources on jiu jitsu when I was training with Roger, and it allowed me to progress quickly. 

BKO: You have been an instructor at some of the best schools in England. Why did you decide to branch out on your own?

Nicolas: Despite all I learned from Roger, It's the natural progression of things to want to branch out on your own. If nobody did that then their would be no progression or evolution. Roger has done the same by creating his own organisation after his time with Gracie Barra.

BKO: Very few people would deny that Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is the foremost self defense style in the world today. Do you feel it is still important to cross train in other martial arts to be a well rounded fighter? What system do you feel would compliment BJJ the most?

Nicolas: Absolutely vital. Jiu jitsu represents only a part of the repertoire a person requires to be able to consider himself a complete martial artist. I believe the best compliments for jiu jitsu are wrestling, boxing and Muay Thai.

BKO: In your interview at http://athletego.com/2013/05/17/nicolasgregoriades, you state relaxation is a major key to a beginner’s progress. How would you recommend someone to relax when the rest of their day before class is all chaos?

Nicolas: The best way to relax is to change your breathing. When is slows down and becomes deep and even, the body relaxes. 

BKO: How do you manage your time between traveling the world, giving seminars, training and teaching?

Nicolas: It's tough! God has blessed me with the time and freedom to do this, so I owe it to him to make most of it. 

BKO: You promote yoga quite a bit. What can someone expect from their first few months of Yoga? What if they are someone who does not exercise?

Nicolas: It's dependent on their current levels of athleticism and fitness. But almost everybody will notice improved flexibility and an increased sense of well-being after a few months of consistent practise.

BKO: Tell us more about your Podcast.

Nicolas: The Journey is a show hosted by my close friend Paul and I. We discuss all aspects of the human experience and life in the modern world. We also have unique and accomplished guests who share their perspectives. You can listen to it here: www.thejourneypodcast.com 

BKO: Thank you for taking the time to answer our question. We look forward to following your career. 

Interview with Christian Tissier - Aikido

Christian Tissier - Aikido Expert

Christian Tissier is one of the foremost experts in Aikido. He helped pioneer the art in France and founded one of France's largest Aikido organizations. He received his 7th degree Dan in 1998. 

BKO Kung Fu: Why did travelling to Japan and studying for 7 years make you a better martial artist than if you only trained in France?

Christian: When I went to Japan aikido was quite new in Europe. Even if there had been good Japanese sensi in Europe, the level of people to practice with was not high enough at the time. Also, it was a challenge to go to Southeast Asia.

BKO : Tell us about receiving the Japan Foreign Minister's Commendation.

Christian: The commendation was a great surprise to me. I am very proud of it because it comes from a non-martial artists organisation. I think the Japanese Foreigh Affairs awarded many people in many fields. I was not alone in receiving this prize. At the same time, there was a very famous Japanese woman welknon in special make up for movies, a Japanese doctor who found a specific disease of Japanese abroad, created a clinic in Paris and the Piquet Library editing and selling books about Japanese culture for years. 

So, I am very proud for aikido and aikidoists for having been recognized. As you understand it is not only me who was awarded. 

BKO : You are one of the best non-Japanese Aikido practitioners in the world; if not the best. What happened with your nomination for 8th dan? Has anything changed since the original request?

Christian: Oh, this is an old story already. I refused the nomination and it is a good thing. There are so many aikidoist with 5th or 6th dan who are better than me and some 8th dan that have the same number of years as me. I feel comfortable where I'm at. My level is no more and no less than where I know I am. 

BKO : From most Aikido demonstrations we have seen, the attacker is usually coming down with a downward chop. Why is this? Why do we not see counters to kicks?

Christian: Aikido demonstrations are a difficult exercise according to what kind of message you want to give. I think you mentioned the Bercy demonstrations with 2000 spectators and TV. We need to present aikido but we don't show the type of confidential exhibition we show when presenting to other aikido people or a very traditional school. With public demonstrations we show more effective techniques but still showing the essence of aikido. If we show applied techniques with kicks, knives or I don't know baseball bats we are not in our field of study and spiritual researches. 

BKO : When you visit dojos around the world, in your opinion, what do you find that is practiced wrong most often? What's the correct way?

Christian: There is no wrong way. People practice what they learned with their teachers. They are honest even if it is not the way I do. What we do is only aikido. It is all our life. For people who do not practice it, it is nothing. The correct way is to polish our mind and soul with enjoyment. 

BKO : Stephen Seagal made Aikido popular in American movies. There is always a controversy about him being as good as he says he is. In your opinion, how good do you think he really is or was?

Christian: I am not a fan.

BKO : Does Aikido have a place in MMA? How so?

Christian: Aikido has no place in MMA. Aikido helps to find a human beings maturity. It takes time, effort and intelligence. Aikido's aim is to preserve integrity; Physical and spiritual integrity. The Martial study in aikido is a pretext to make you understand that is you make a mistake you fail; you die. The practice of the tatami gives you a new chance to try again to be better, to erase your mistakes in a useless violence.

Christian: BKO : Why do you believe France refuses to participate in MMA like UFC?

I think the sport ministry does not want violence to become a show .

Thank you Christian for taking the time to answer our questions.

Please visit Christian's website.