What Is the Best Martial Arts Style?

[@johndennis3181]

The best martial arts style is the one you enjoy practicing.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Yes, sir! Short and sweet.

[@Colorlightt]

John Dennis can’t really enjoy it if you get your ass kicked because you don’t know how to fight well

[@grayalun]

Micaiah makaike The argument is surely if you don't enjoy something you won't stick at it and become proficient so it's sure better to be really good (And likely fitter than if you don't train) at an arguably less effective art than trying but failing to do something you hate.

[@Colorlightt]

Alun Gray In that case your valuing your enjoyment over your safety. But that’s usually not the case, usually it’s that people do want to defend themselves but aren’t educated enough to make the best choice. Then they waste their time and money practicing something that can get them hurt.

[@grayalun]

Micaiah makaike The biggest thing is being aware of holes in the style you do, Taekwondo and Karate for example don't have a ground game so why not take a wrestling class or BJJ class here and there and learn some grappling. Same if your a grappler maybe do some striking every do often to get better at striking. Finding a good place is the key so many mcdojo around and these places don't pressure test stuff to see what's working and what isn't.

[@olavstrand81]

Again, I would upvote 100 times and keep going daily if I could. "The best master is not the one with most students. It is the one that creates the most masters"

[@AndoMierzwa]

I love that quote. Thanks for sharing!

[@ClockzOfficial]

Who are you, that are so wise in the ways of martial arts?

[@TheWillToFight]

The best martial arts style is the one that works for you Great video keep up the good work

[@AndoMierzwa]

Yes, sir. Thank you for the comment!

[@evanmcclure4672]

Fight Training the style chooses you!

[@Emertx7]

you are the man your wisdom continues to show in all these videos and it has helped me a lot mentally with my own training thank you for your hard work sir.

[@AndoMierzwa]

I really appreciate that comment, sir. Happy training!

[@pfbcrew1]

Thanks :D you rly give me motivation and i will keep following you :D

[@AndoMierzwa]

I'm honored, sir!

[@Lily-ps6ph]

it's not the martial art, it's the martial artist. Been a muay thai fighter for a long time, fighting in the ring too, but always bare in mind that you yourself are the factor of how good the martial art is. :)

[@AndoMierzwa]

Interesting twist there! Thank you!

[@taekwondomaster4609]

Exactly

[@sportmuaythaiv1045]

This is the excuse a teacher makes when he or she cannot produce result. A martial art is rated whether it is efficient and perpetually evolving through regular competition at professional level. Teacher that has real experience in fighting at professional level, and has produced students fighting at professional level. Good training method, preferably one on one. Good and suitable training equipment. The curriculum is universal, among schools that teach the same martial art. Boxing, BJJ, muaythai and Judo seems to standout in this respect.

[@LikeWaterProductions]

This is a great video. I agree with you about finding the best teacher, not the best martial art. Even some of the best martial artists I know aren't necessarily the best teachers. But when you can find a teacher that can break down a difficult technique and make it easy to learn, that's as good as gold.

[@AndoMierzwa]

I agree completely. A great teacher is a treasure!

[@daveyjones4264]

I have heard this question asked or argued about so many times over the years. This is by far the best answer i've ever heard. Well said ! Great job

[@AndoMierzwa]

Much appreciated, sir! 🙏🏻

[@AlofD]

I love your open and non-biased approach to questions like this! Your answer was great! I've already chosen my art and have been training karate for coming up on three years now. But I enjoy boxing and grappling too. My karate teacher encourages branching out.

[@AndoMierzwa]

It sounds like you’ve got a great teacher and you’re a great student! Keep going!

[@AlofD]

@@AndoMierzwa He is, they both are and they push me further than I thought possible!!

[@AndoMierzwa]

@@AlofD That's the way it should be!

[@mayukhsen8195]

This is a very well thought out and intelligent answer, kudos to your practicality and wisdom. I loved it when you said what's the best style for you now, may not be the best for you after 10 years, that's just so true on so many levels. If someone asked me this question and his intention was to be a good fighter in a self defense scenario, then I would tell him to get as good at boxing and bjj as soon as possible. Which means, all the boxing techniques should be practiced thousands of times a day on the heavy bag, 1000-2000 punches a day in the form of various combos. Along with front kick, round kick and side kick. Get good at these techniques. Throw various combos at the bag and train the defensive moves for each combo that you do. The head is a very important target, the sooner you get highly skilled at making it harder for attackers to hit your head and making it easier to hit others effectively and powerfully, the better you get at doing this, the higher your chances of dominating any kind of brawl with anyone. Bjj is also very important, getting a black belt from a highly reputed institution in bjj and being able to go toe to toe with a good world class pro boxer in sparring, these are very realistic goals upon obtaining which you will be a highly skilled h2h fighter. Boxers are the masters of protecting their head, that's the most important thing in a fight. Any other martial art will work just as good but it's very convenient to find good boxing gyms in all over USA with good fighters to spar with, and it's not the martial art but how good you get at it that matters, and you can get only as good as the guys you can find to spar with so boxing is a great martial art from that perspective because there are always abundance of fighters to spar with and get as good or better than them by fighting them and beating them. And bjj allows you to overcome the strength advantage of a bigger and stronger guy. Top bjj guys in the world are the most dangerous fighters of all time.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Thank you for the thoughtful response, sir. For sure, any training is better than no training. And you picked two great styles to get people started. Thank you!

[@barrygroeneveld6901]

Boxing + BJJ + Krav Maga combined!

[@navdeepsingh-ux1nv]

I have been in and out of martial arts, and tried a couple of styles and all of them need practice. But the way you segregated them in different classifications, I was very impressed. It shows your level of detail in learning and teaching. Thank you so much for that Sensei. I am 34 now and I really wanna get back to that. And now, I think, I am more aware of which way to go. So again, thanks sooooo much.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Yes! Get back to it! :)

[@gordanator2060]

I think its pretty hard to go wrong with boxing. There are so many kids and adults alike that sign up for say, Karate expecting to become the next KarateKid, yet totally under-estimate how much (additional) time and effort it demands to get any result, even after numerous classes they barely throw (or take) a punch. Boxing is raw, it gives well founded confidence and teaches the most apply-able principles of fighting. Best of all its not ridiculously elaborate. As a wise man once said "simplicity is the key to greatness."

[@AndoMierzwa]

Boxing is a great foundation, no doubt. And it's true that you can build confidence quickly. Thanks, James!

[@gordanator2060]

No problem dude, I appreciate your response. Nice video by the way :)

[@AndoMierzwa]

You're very kind! Keep punching!

[@AndoMierzwa]

Special occasions... like weddings and holidays. :)

[@hallamfamily189]

James Gordon as a karate student, I find this is both true but slightly incorrect Karate requires more effort but that makes achievement even more rewarding, it’s interesting and rewarding, I’m a brown belt and even though I’m working hard, I don’t regret doing karate No hate tho Have a nice existence! 😊

[@RawDoggin_78]

You are a good martial artist and you are not like those narrow minded instructors who say xxxx is the best style bla bla...i just subscribed.and i will tell all my friends to check out your channel.why?because you deserve it.you deserve more..

[@AndoMierzwa]

That is very kind of you. Thank you for the support, Baris! Welcome!

[@uwotm8634]

thank you for clearing up this debate ando, in the end it's all about what works for you

[@AndoMierzwa]

You got that right! Thank you for the comment!

[@luka2298]

I must say again, these videos are very intelligently and systematically put with such honesty and commitment that sometimes when I watch them, i hear from you the same thoughts I already had on my mind at some point but wasn't so sure about them and then I get the nicest confirmation that I'm on the right track. Thank you for this sensei. I wish for this channel to grow and spread and get the attention that it really deserves. I will give my very best to promote and show it to my friends, martial artists here in Serbia, because there's a lot of good and honest enthusiasts that need to hear this and learn from you! Greetings!

[@AndoMierzwa]

You’re my kind of guy! There are nice people all over the world… thanks for being one. Greetings from the USA! 🤜🏻🤛🏼

[@jpdrum26]

Krav Maga has basic core movements, short learning curve, and brutally effective. After doing some research on the best forms of self defense for the street, I chose this form and haven't looked back TKD and karate require a lot of time and money, practicing forms, and high/spinning kicks that may end up getting you hurt against a formidable opponent in a real situation. Dojos and tournaments are usually safe, controlled environments...

[@AndoMierzwa]

Thank you for the comment!

[@swankmank]

its hard to say if a style is effective, teachers will often water down the styles and or delude their students into believing that it will actually work in a fight and krav maga is notorious for having those teachers but i think krav gets singled out a bit much imo

[@petermapp1275]

i love how you articulate your answers...you showed me a brand new perspective

[@AndoMierzwa]

Great! Thanks for the comment, Peter!

[@Dobbersky]

awesomenessly amazing respects to you OSU. Totally agree with you there. There is no best style! Too much Politics between style and schools etc

[@AndoMierzwa]

Politics ruins everything. Let's all be cool!

[@chatnoir5930]

This is a very good guide into Martia Arts, Ando. Even for me, and I've practiced 5 different styles + a combat sport, makes me aware of what to look for in the other Dojos.

[@AndoMierzwa]

I appreciate the comment! Thank you!

[@tfk_001]

I do a mix of karate, tae kwon do, judo, ju jitsu, kobudo, and aikido (not just the fake stereotypical aikido), and can surely say that they work best together. In tournament, I always combine them

[@AndoMierzwa]

Awesome. Glad you found a mix that works for you!

[@tusharkiranmoodgal4825]

Sensei, everytime I see one of your videos I feel enriched and enlightened. You are a true martial artist. Not only do your videos help me improve my techniques but I have become a better person. I hope I can meet you someday and train with you.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Your kind words mean a lot to me. Thank you! Perhaps we will train together someday!

[@sonnygallo5662]

There are only better men not better styles. I am a short heavy set powerfully built martial artist. Though I do kick I keep my feet mostly on the ground. How many elephants or hippos have you seen kick ? So I favor southern Shaolin and aikijutsu. Whatever fits your mindset, physiology, age, structure etc etc is the best style for you ! Peace and OSU sensei you remain totally on point. Bansai sir !

[@AndoMierzwa]

Words of wisdom, sir! Thank you!

[@sonnygallo5662]

Your humility betrays you. Peace and blessings Shihan

[@AndoMierzwa]

Blessings to you, too, Good Sir!

[@Jazzman-bj9fq]

I agree, Sensei. It's ok to start one style then switch to another. As you say, you may not know exactly what you're looking for until you get into it then at least you may know 'this isn't it.' I just realized that I've watched a few of your vids and enjoy them but I hadn't yet described. Just did, Tang Soo!

[@AndoMierzwa]

Thanks for the kind words! Glad you’re here! 🙏🏻

[@barronbladesmanagerclevern8057]

1:54 I thought you were calling people who do Taekwondo jerks, I was about to be triggered.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Ha! No... TKD helped CURE my jerkism! Mostly... :)

[@serchingfortruth1022]

I practice martial arts because it has changed my life and myself into the man I always wanted to be I quit drinking and smoking and being negative and eating unhealthy and it has brought me alot of joy and happiness. I formally train bjj but on my own I try and practice fundamentals from as many striking styles as possible. Unfortunately I can only afford to go to one school or I'd spend all my time and money training different styles all week. luckily I have plenty of books and videos to help me study while I have down time at my house or at work so thank you sensei ando for your hard work and help from one martial artist to another it's very appreciated.

[@AndoMierzwa]

It sounds like you're a serious student... good for you! Learn from everyone and everything you can... I agree! Thanks for the comment. Happy training!

[@serchingfortruth1022]

thank you for your reply and encouragement. between being a full time worker, father, and husband I have to be serious in order to stay focused. Unfortunately I haven't been able to train this past week due to a shattered finger on my dominant hand. after the surgery I still gotta heal for atleast a month to 2 months before I can work or train again luckily I've got time to watch videos and study now and good practice with my off hand coordination. so I appreciate your encouragement alot thank you.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Sorry for your pain. But don't forget that you can still train and condition without one hand. Just do what you can!

[@TheDreadMan]

bottom line: ask 100 different people what the "best" martial arts style is, you get 100 different answers. I've done karate & tae kwon do as a child then migrated to Kung Fu/Wing chun as an adult & regardless of what discipline you practice, EVERY style has something in common with the other, & the point of martial arts is to be a BETTER YOU.

[@mehtaabsandhu6969]

I haven't seen all ur videos but by far this is the best I came across. Everyone needs to respect every martial art. Every style teaches us something new or at least in a different manner. It maybe the same kick one masters going through several styles.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Amen. We can all learn from each other!

[@icangicung20]

the best style is called 'not to pick a fight'

[@AndoMierzwa]

Excellent style. More people should practice it! :)

[@Rex-golf_player810]

I think many martial arts have that as one of the bases lol

[@firebeardsecret-fire9552]

icangicung20 AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAA!!!!!!

[@jalwa4533]

what if the fight picks you

[@mysticriffs7951]

😂😂😂

[@VarietyOfDaves]

I appreciate your advice very much since im not afraid of fighting in general never have been but youve helped me how to concentrate in fights and how to fight better

[@AndoMierzwa]

Glad to hear that! Thanks!

[@jrmhcpyn6952]

I do taekwondo and its so fun But no matter what is your style it depends on the person

[@AndoMierzwa]

Exactly right! It all depends on you. Happy training!

[@jrmhcpyn6952]

Thanks sensei ando I already subscribed

[@taekwondomaster4609]

Exactly

[@bender75]

Excellent, well thought out yet simple advice that covers all the key points when considering what martial arts style to practice. I’ve been promoting martial arts to my friends and family in the same way. I couldn’t agree more that you can fell in love with a style but the teacher is the one who will make you stay or move on to the next school or even style. I did 3 styles of karate and aikido, because I moved around a lot. Aikido is the only one I couldn’t get into, but I still appreciate the experience.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Glad we’re on the same page, sir! Happy training!

[@mikekruger7728]

Whom'st'd've

[@AndoMierzwa]

That hurts my head!

[@kingplunger1]

I started boxing as a hobby, because it is relatively simple and good enough for all I want. I just want confidence, stress relief, get rid of my depression and get a better/healthier/stronger body. It is like you said: all depends on want you want and like. thanks for your videos, many of them are really great, subscribed

[@AndoMierzwa]

Glad you found an art that fits your needs. Happy hitting! Thanks for subscribing!

[@derpiket3581]

Holy Damn that was deep

[@AndoMierzwa]

Ha! Sorry about that. :)

[@piotrlitwic5935]

An answer to almost all of my questions. I kept asking myself and others about the best style keeping in mind the best style for me and my purposes. But the perspective of time was not something I ever looked at, despite how stupid it was no to do that. Thanks, now I know what to do. Great video!

[@AndoMierzwa]

Good to hear from you, sir! Yes, we all change over time, so it only makes sense that what we want from a style or a teacher changes, too. Keep fighting! :)

[@piotrlitwic5935]

I will. Thanks again:)

[@harrymackenzie5403]

what is the best self defence for someone who lost a leg in a bear attack?

[@wesleyhines4081]

The 454. Casul style

[@AndoMierzwa]

HA!

[@AndoMierzwa]

Living in a NYC penthouse.

[@harrymackenzie5403]

In all seriousness, you're the most articulate martial arts instructor I have seen. There's a bunch of instructional channels I follow but your help is the most easy to understand.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Thank you very much. I try to keep simple just so I can understand things! :)

[@Witnessdomaining]

I'm 37 years old and as a kid I've practiced both karate and judo. This video wants me to try out some brazilian jiu jitsu. I'm getting old and I'm getting back in the game. Thanks Ando!

[@AndoMierzwa]

Awesome! Definitely give it a try!

[@billybob-xy5pt]

casually answer e-mails in your gi :)

[@AndoMierzwa]

It helps me focus. :)

[@1deaver]

because of this video, I subscribed. great attitude. I'm about to get my black belt in tae kwon do, but I love learning about other martial arts , both defense and training tips. thank you

[@AndoMierzwa]

+The Fish Closet Welcome aboard! And congrats on making it to your Black Belt test! Happy training!

[@locogiomotocroz4031]

my favorite style is the Loko style, my own style, jabs, hooks, elbow trikes, boxing foot work, karate punches and blocks, front kicks, side kicks, judo locks, brute force, fancy techniques, wing chun fighting stance, switching stances during a fight, bitting, grabbing nuts, and as training running, calisthenics, weight lifting, shadow boxing, stretching, sparring, wrestle with your friends at the beach. This is the most effective thing for me, when I become an adult I want to learn takwondo, aikido and ninjutsu or kravmaga , because I like kicking, "flow," and would love to know how deal with weapons with my bare hands

[@jacobarrowood3587]

Loco Gio Motocroz Go for it

[@AndoMierzwa]

Love it!

[@Momsspaghetti777]

Loco Gio Motocroz I’m not sure you’ve been in too many fights because your list is too long Don’t get me wrong if you have been in a ring or a street and believe it works than go ahead But it seems you watch lots of TV and don’t necessarily spar a lot or get in many fights You should try getting into *friendly, non dangerous* fights with *close* friends or sparring in a ring where someone can break apart fights that get too aggressive Trust me, you can get your ass kicked if you don’t practice. You can.

[@archiecunningham3734]

If you get sucker punched. Use the art you can remember if any.

[@typhoonic]

Good video. Definitely like tip#2. Better to look for a good teacher than a good style. I've always told that to all the people who ask me about getting into martial arts. When they want to learn from me, I try to remember to credit all the people who helped me get to where I am, and I try to remember to ask why they're interested in learning martial arts. Sometimes I forget not everyone does martial arts for the same reasons I do.

[@AndoMierzwa]

It's easy to get caught up in our own goals and then judge everyone else in the same way. The more we focus on our own work, the better! Thank you for the comment.

[@captianamerica3531]

the most perfect Martial artist in the world Ando sensei.;)

[@AndoMierzwa]

HA! I'll have to put up a video with me getting tapped out and beat up. But thank you! :)

[@RawDoggin_78]

I love how you patiently reply all the comments with effort.that is how a teacher should be.

[@AndoMierzwa]

I'm trying! :)

[@poookiiieee2174]

Long term commitment. I want to be a Kung fu master all my life (:

[@AndoMierzwa]

Me, too! :)

[@13Ambro]

Very good point about how preferences for style changes over time. When I was in my early teens I trained in traditional Isshin-Ryu. It was great for a while, but after college I moved on to American Freestyle - which was a very hard style: full contact sparing, no forms, very aggressive fighting techniques. Both of these styles suited my goals and temperament at the time - and the American freestyle really got me in fighting shape that led me to some kickboxing tournaments. Now, in my 50s - (after a 25 year break from practicing Karate) I have returned to my Isshin-Ryu forms and have discovered new meaning and applications to each one. I could not even think of doing the full contact work at this point of my life. My solo practice of studying the katas keeps me motivated, in shape and has reignited the martial arts spark that I had when I was younger. My 20 year old self would have laughed at me over studying kata, but my older self thanks me :-)

[@AndoMierzwa]

Isn’t it funny how our perspectives change? Getting old is definitely a game changer. Happy training to you!

[@thisaccountisdead9060]

There's an old phrase that says "what is the point of arguing, if you are living in the Matrix?".

[@AndoMierzwa]

Ha! I gotta think about that…

[@kelu5439]

We are not living in matrix

[@HaoTran-zu2of]

Very well put Sensei. Let's continue training and hope to meet you one day.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Yes, that would be great. Keep fighting, sir!

[@MrHater-cd9wb]

The best style is 9mm

[@artbunker]

And after the bullets run out? What's the second best?

[@barrygroeneveld6901]

Unless you're too late to grab your gun.

[@1968taddpole]

You have no style...

[@tfk_001]

Nope .50 bmg

[@iancannon2825]

Lol!😂🤣

[@luka2298]

Such a humble, informative and overall great guy! Love this chanel. Trained krav maga for a year, realized I have some serious natural punching power so i wanted to become really good in punching, now I'm 8 months into classical boxing, learned a lot, sparred a lot, improved both power and technique . Now I have a crazy idea to mix my boxing hand technique with shotokan karate leg technique and footwork. Il see how that goes!

[@AndoMierzwa]

I love how you’re thinking! Let the mixing begin! And thank you for the kind words.

[@Dusk-87]

no such thing as the best martial arts style

[@ΣαπλαχίδηςΘεόδωρος]

Said the guy With the playboy icon

[@thomasmei3443]

that's when someone mixes their martial arts.

[@riling]

i have news for you mister playboy there is.

[@wraith_7353]

Sensei, I'm really glad I found your channel and subscribed recently. Everything you said in this video I couldn't agree with you more. It really isn't about the style but the practitioner, any style can be the best if you put your best into the style. It's good to see an instructor out there that acknowledges this, I've seen my fair share that says "oh our style is the best! You don't need anything else!" I have great respect for all styles and enjoy learning what I can from any that I can. Also I have much respect for you and your knowledge. Thank you for sharing it with us all.

[@AndoMierzwa]

You are very kind. Thanks for taking the time to say that, m'Lord!

[@sweepsr]

Your advice really helped me decide on which style to try for my first art. In my area we have tkd,jj,bjj, wah lum, Mt and aikido. Being nearly 50 it’s been intimidating to even visit some of them. Most have young bucks looking to prove themselves. Your practical common sense videos are helping. Thanks.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Good for you! Just get started… you can always switch down the road if you have to.

[@sportmuaythaiv1045]

THis is a clip of a senior who started muaythai at 57. He is not a gifted athlete, just a true desk jockey. He trained three times a week. The guy was 76++ when this clip was made kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqeQp5WMZ5qGebM

[@excellence0722]

Thank you. You just proved me that the style doesn't matter but you.

[@AndoMierzwa]

You first. Always.

[@stargateproductions]

I think every style can offer you something. I started with boxing then kickboxing, then Muay Thai. I love striking, though I would be opposed to learning some groundwork. Great video!

[@AndoMierzwa]

Exactly. It's all good for something!

[@Heartlanddualsport]

Excellent video sir, It makes a lot of sense. Very nicely done on this video. Keep up the fun videos and have a blessed week. Dale

[@AndoMierzwa]

Blessings to you too, Dale! 🙏🏻

[@johnflynn6121]

Thanks for bringing some sense to this topic! For those who really want to go deep in this question, I recommend (NFI) Rory Miller's book, "Meditations on Violence." Miller is a career corrections officer, who for many years got in "a fight a day" with hardened criminals. He now teaches corrections officers and police all over the world. He also happens to be a black belt in an obscure Japanese martial art. He talks about the questions raised in this video, and related questions, in depth, and brings a lot of clarity to the topic. My main takeaway is: Be clear on your goals for the martial arts. Don't act like your goal is to be a badass, when what you really want is to just walk though the world in peace. Then train in the style you like, but continually analyze it critically for what it doesn't teach you vis a vis your goals. And EVERY martial art will be lacking for any set of goals. None of them are perfect for anyone. Develop and work drills that add what's missing for you. Miller provides a lot of great drills in the book.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Thanks for the recommendation, sir! Rory Miller's name is brought up a lot, so he definitely offers valuable insights. Happy training to you!

[@jeetenglish]

Hi sir.. love from India.. I find you immensely motivating guru.. you really know how to inspire people to be better.. thank you and God bless you!

[@AndoMierzwa]

Bless you, too! ☺️🙏🏻

[@TieXiongJi]

Glad you finally asked! There is such a thing. It's Taiji, the art of the great extremes. All people, all ages can learn from this teaching. The practice is possible lying down, in a chair, standing, flying. It is the best.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Love your answer! 😄

[@altairnilo]

Congrats Sensei. One more time this videos are going to help me in my walking at martial arts. I´m coming back to my kickboxing and now my master is intending to teach tatical self defense, like security and military people. This could be good, but sometimes I don´t know well if joining this have a good pratice or a good response. I believe one step at time. But, I'm coming back from a long period of illness and I feel need to take the lost time. I'll do the best for me and for my beloved people. From the beginning I was there to just make a good shape (I'm a little fat, yet), but years ago having a good elastic performance, even fat. Well, I´m not wanting to take much of your time, but I need to write. So, one more time, thank you Sensei Ando. Good fight, happy life, health and peace. Oss. From Brazil.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Greetings form the USA, Altair! Glad you made it back to the martial arts. Yes, give the new program a try. It might be great! Health and peace to you, too!

[@martialartsscience560]

Again very well put Sensei Ando you never disappoint... very good way to sum it up, John

[@AndoMierzwa]

I appreciate your support, sir! Thank you!

[@BadMutafukaz]

Thanks for this video Ando, changed my vision about all of this

[@AndoMierzwa]

I love hearing that. Thank you, sir!

[@hectoroftroy4005]

enjoyed the video. with every video, I learn something new! and today's I learned, . "I like the sound of the gong!"

[@AndoMierzwa]

No shame in that! :)

[@IgorKalember]

Sir Ando! I'm sorry for that I won't type a 1000 comment at the moment but I must tell you that my heart was warm as 1000 degrees while I was watching this video I felt so happy listening to your wisdom and how every word you said was so strong and true I can't explain this but the video made me feel so god damn good! BTW thank you for saying aikido it's one of the deadly martial arts out there, one wrist twist on the opponent and it may be over for they whole hand! Or even life Aikido is very dangerous but very friendly and loving I trained it for 8 years while I was a kid I stopped because it was boring to me but I was a dumb kid I didn't appreciate what I had! But I learned a lot from my trainer Ljuba and he is one of the best friends I encountered in my life and he does like Tai chi every morning he has a lot of students here in my little city Sombor and he manages to train everyone and make them not only a good protector but a much more wiser person and a more loving soul! Hah sorry for the long text Sensei, thanks again for making this video! ❤ Infinite Love and balance to you sir! 😊❤👊

[@AndoMierzwa]

Thank you for the kind words, sir. 8 years of Aikido.... wow! That's impressive. Do you now participate in the Tai Chi class? Whatever you're doing, it sounds like you're doing something right! Love to you, too!

[@IgorKalember]

I mainly focus on strength training thru body weight exercises and sometimes box but that it. I did tai chi home before every morning but now I focus of educating myself thru some universal laws and making my financial status grow! Thank you sir! ^_^

[@AndoMierzwa]

Yes, master the universal laws and you'll win at everything! Keep fighting!

[@grzegorzkrawczyk611]

"Seek the best teacher, not the best style". Agreed, I love my Taekwon-Do classes, but had it not been for the most professional and cool coach under the sun, who attracts similarly cool students there, my approach to that Martial Art could be very different now. I still remember my Shotokan classes from back in the day, where the Art itself was fine, but other things were... well, different :)

[@AndoMierzwa]

Glad we agree! You’re absolutely right - the teacher creates the culture. You either fit in or you don’t!😁

[@webechillin2348]

Great video. If I understand you correctly it's not necessarily the style that may be flawed or perceived as in effective but the school/instructor who is teaching it. I agree completely.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Exactly right, sir!

[@fernandomendoza798]

amazing food for thought. it is good to see that their are martial artist that understand what martial arts is and how it can change the way you see life. when some of my students would ask me if tae kwon do was the best martial art all around. I would always tell them. no. but it is a martial art. don't let the style confuse you on what you are really here to learn. to understand martial arts you must look at all the styles as a different technique in the art of fighting. not as which style is better but as what can I learn and use from this style. how can this make me a better fighter, martial artist, and human being. because at the end of all this martial arts styles. a punch is a punch, and a kick is always going to be a kick. you are just discovering that their are many ways you can punch and kick. the same goes with weapons, and ground combate. once you have all this knolege, then comes the hard part. how to use it and outsmart your aponent. like chest. both aponents know all the moves, but the one that knows when and how to use them will be the winner.

[@AndoMierzwa]

You are very wise, sir! I love that you say your own art is not even the best... it's just one of many. Thank you for the comment!

[@smittysmith6173]

Wise and true as always sir. Here is my schedule. Mon. ShotoKan. Tue. Tae Kwon Do. Wed. Pang Gai Noon Thur. Ving Tsun. Fri. Beer Lawn Chair Do. I'm off weekends. Joking of course except for Fridays. Another great vid Sir. Keep it up.

[@AndoMierzwa]

HA!!! What style of beer is the best? :)

[@smittysmith6173]

Well Sir I'm a cheap all American Jarhead so Budlight it is. :) This Friday anyway.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Salute! :)

[@rahulagrawal64]

I liked your last comment the most... It was really really good...!!! Dil se good.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Thanks for watching the whole thing!

[@michaelw7867]

Great advice! The best summary of this question I've seen.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Thanks very much, sir!

[@DwainRaymond]

Thanks for being honest and thanks for the info

[@AndoMierzwa]

Honesty is my therapy. 😁 Thank you for the comment!

[@gladiator7926]

Very good, useful and well - intentioned material. Thanks and God Bless You!

[@AndoMierzwa]

Bless you, too!

[@charliemares7908]

Once again you have made one incredible video. I really enjoyed watching your personality and your happy go forward attitude. Good job :)

[@AndoMierzwa]

+Charlie C4 Happy go forward! I like that. Thank you!

[@xXTobeyNeonxX]

This video was really helpful, I'm orange-point black belt in teakwondo and these are really helpful to be honest!!

[@AndoMierzwa]

Congratulations on your rank! Full steam ahead!

[@Docinaplane]

Very good! One thing I've learned lately in my journey is that even though the teacher is an amazing fighter, does not mean that they can teach you to be amazing like them because they may have physical skills and advantageous genetics that you can not duplicate no matter the practice. Look for a teacher that can bring out the best in you by maximizing what your skills can access and accomplish. Thank you!

[@AndoMierzwa]

Absolutely true! Teaching is its own skill. Thanks!

[@natalievanrenen8771]

i continue to be impressed by your videos. it is also great to see you link up with Jesse Enkamp, who I also follow. Possible topic *How to balance strength training with martial arts training so they give optimal benefits (but do not interfere with each other). once again, even as a karate practitioner I find most of what you say useful, and the kung fu advice further adds other dimensions to my karate. You also have a great sense of humour (esp. when you said you could catch Jesse Enkamps lightning speed kick lol)

[@AndoMierzwa]

Hi Natalie! After a while, it's not about style... you're already wise enough to see that! Great idea for a topic, too! It's tricky to find the balance between strength and skill training. Personally, skill training should always come first. If I have to rely on strength, I'll probably lose! Thanks for the comment! :)

[@taekwondomaster4609]

Thank you for your great videos Sifu

[@AndoMierzwa]

Thank you for the comment, my friend!

[@bigbangzebraman351]

I always hesitate to start a martial art because I'm told "wahh this is useless because so and so" or "wahhh that is useless because so and so". The ones people say are more "fun" and "useful" are usually the ones where people get hurt and fight all the time. I just want a martial art where I don't get hurt that is good for my health

[@AndoMierzwa]

Just sign up somewhere and try something! You can figure out the rest as you go.👍🏼

[@bigbangzebraman351]

​@@AndoMierzwa I ended up starting Goju Ryu Karate six months ago, and rediscovered your channel. You're absolutely right! If you hesitate too much, you'll regret not starting a martial art at all, so it's better to just sign up to something.

[@AndoMierzwa]

@@bigbangzebraman351 Well done! 👍🏼 Thanks for the follow up. And keep going! 😁

[@PUABored12]

Yeah I just started taking an Okinawan style karate in Cincinnati Ohio. Before this I knew next to nothing about martial arts. I took a look at some other dojos as well. You confirmed my theory that the style doesn't really matter but how dedicated the student is.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Absolutely right! I hope you have a great experience!

[@thomasstevens4622]

You take a little bit of all arts and add it to your style. Ando great video my friend !

[@AndoMierzwa]

Thank you for the comment, Thomas! 🙏🏻

[@miguelm6794]

So many good one-liners!

[@AndoMierzwa]

Thanks very much!

[@adamtr1121]

This is exactly how I felt a few years ago, I loved japanese jujutsu but it really wasn’t where I wanted to be. I love all kicks and jumping kicks. I now take japanese kenpo karate. I love it!

[@AndoMierzwa]

Excellent! Keep it up!

[@albertcastro409]

Good video. Much respect.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Respect to you as well, Albert!

[@trungpham4592]

Ur conpletely right in this video good stuff man

[@AndoMierzwa]

Thank you very much!

[@jotarokujo7955]

Very good tips and very wise approach

[@AndoMierzwa]

Thank you very much!

[@Ronin-101]

mma, kyokushin, muay Thai, judo are some good ones in general.

[@travisito8546]

Every martial art that I’ve done has served a purpose for me even if it was something as simple as a philosophy. Gaining one thing out of the art was a victory. Karate which was my first martial art taught me stance and many philosophies and ethics. Kajukenbo taught me a lot of the same ethics as well as how to properly break fall and keep the multiple attacker mindset. Wrestling taught me how to keep solid pressure when applying techniques but most importantly it taught me work ethic and how to face adversity. Taking boxing classes at my local gym had got me into shape and also taught me angles. Then right now training in JKD had taught me how to test techniques against a resisting opponent to whether or not it truly works. Not sure where my journey is headed but I know my goals for training and I enjoy what martial arts has to offer.

[@AndoMierzwa]

I’d say we have the attitude, Travis! 👍🏼

[@ilankalika9775]

as always- great video and straight to the point, sensei!

[@AndoMierzwa]

Thanks so much for watching and commenting, sir!

[@beskeptic]

Good topic, great approach.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Thank you for the comment, sir!

[@leodaido]

Great answer Sensei! I think the #4 is the most important, also why stick to only one style when you can get ton of useful things from all of them and pick one to master in it?

[@AndoMierzwa]

Exactly right, sir! Thanks for your support!

[@ruiseartalcorn]

I totally agree Sensei. I've trained in many different systems over the years (boxing, Karate, Pencak-Silat - I even became a Silat teacher) but found that the Chinese martial arts appealed more to me. I eventually, after many years, became a Sifu of Yau Hawk Tao Kung Fu but continued experimenting and evolving. I now teach my own Kung Fu, which has Yau Hawk Tao as its foundation but contains elements of Silat and boxing. I maintain a "traditional" approach, whilst constantly refining and reshaping. I like to mix stuff in that fits but Kung Fu will always be my "mixing bowl".

[@AndoMierzwa]

"Mixing bowl"... that's perfect! :)

[@ruiseartalcorn]

Thanks Sensei, or, since you're a Kung Fu guy like myself I should really be calling you Sifu. So, thanks Sifu! Cheers, Sifu Ruiseart.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Cal me whatever you like! :)

[@ruiseartalcorn]

You have my respect Sir. Your videos are very inspirational and in this modern martial arts world of MMA/UFC etc (which I also greatly respect) it's nice to see that some of us still see the point of traditional values. Yes, our techniques are updated and fit today's world, in terms of self-defense, but honour, respect and harmony are still at the centre of what we do. Well done Sifu, keep on doing what you're doing :).

[@dvblove]

WHERE I should go in NYC to learn self defense I was recently attacked.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Glad you survived. 🙏🏻 But sorry-I don’t NYC well enough.

[@paulJkiely]

Amazing footage !

[@AndoMierzwa]

Thank you very much, Paul!

[@sudheeshsudhakaran7335]

Great video , great information

[@AndoMierzwa]

Thank you very much! 🙏🏻

[@NothingMaster]

That sound of the gong bit was absolutely and originally epic.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Glad you appreciated that. 😄

[@hellomenicetalkingtomyself7158]

great content. it's not about the martial art style, it's about the martial artist.

[@AndoMierzwa]

Yes, indeed! Thank you!

[@ZenDragonYoutubeChannel]

We think the same way when it comes to this question. You're a great speaker, if you haven't maybe you should try some public speaking, it would serve as another way for you to promote the benefits of martial arts. :) Either way, keep up what you're doing now :)

[@AndoMierzwa]

Thanks very much, sir! I'm happy to talk about martial arts anywhere, anytime!

[@leonthomas4680]

You're great Sensei Ando, thanks for the video.

[@AndoMierzwa]

I appreciate that, sir! Thank you!

[@AndrewAttard78]

Hey Ando, saw you on an old fight tips video. Just subscribed to your channel. Was hoping to flip the counter to 200k.

[@parkerlester26]

Hey sensei ando I'm a huge fan of your videos I was wondering which style of kung fu do you do?

[@AndoMierzwa]

San Soo... or Tsoi Li Ho Fut Hung. Thanks for asking!

[@charlesneal9847]

Wow gold that's exactly what I believe brother awesome job

[@AndoMierzwa]

Glad we agree, my friend! 👍🏼

[@adityarokade7086]

Wow!!!! Very nice thought u have sensei!!!

[@AndoMierzwa]

Thank you very much!