Strong Foundation, Strong Defense is well-known to experienced martial artists but hard to learn for the novice.
Focusing on our Foundations forces one to look at what our feet are doing. Where they are placed and what direction they are heading. We then start to examine the strength of our balance and distribution of weight on each foot. If our Foundation never stands firm and is constantly shifting, our balance and control of weight distribution is compromised. This Foundation also connects to our core or what we call heaven , in Totally Christian Karate (which is where our power comes from) or our “Home” in Gentleness in Motion. We first, have to learn the correct technique of the Foundation. Second, we have to find the correct distancing of our feet for our own body. Third, we have to practice just standing in that Foundation. Fourth, we have to learn how to walk in that Foundation. Fifth, Learn to walk from one foundation into another, forward and backward. Now the rest of our Defense is ready to be added without compromised power and agility.
So be patient beginning students. This process takes a tremendous amount of focus and practice. If you have not practiced each step of the process at least 100 times you have not been formally introduced yet to that Foundation. After 300 repetitions you should start to feel comfortable. Don’t be deceived that you can skip this step and be effective. You will have movement but no power!
The same process is in effect with our Scriptural Self Defense. Take the time to learn and grow in the Foundations of your faith. First, we learn the name of the technique. Second, we memorize a scripture for that technique that we can explain what it means. Third, we do the Bible Study for that technique to get the balance. Fourth, we practice walking and doing. Fifth, we can go from subject to subject, doing, speaking the Word of God to edify, correct and warn those God loves.
Strong Foundation = Strong Self-Defense