Sunday, April 19, 2015

April 2015 Pressure Points Seminar

Grandmasters Stevens, Carsky and Boese


More than thirty martial artists from across the state gathered recently at the Stevens Taekwondo -- A New Way of Life studio to train in advanced techniques.  

Local taekwondo  black belts were joined by black belts and instructors from across the state for instruction in escapes, releases and take downs  utilizing the pressure sensitive nerve areas. 

The seminar was led by an eminent trio of grandmasters.  Master instructor Dwight Stevens clearly demonstrated an assortment of  techniques, using anecdotes from his lifetime of experience to illustrate situations and reactions needed.  

 Knowing a technique is just the beginning, Stevens told the group.
Dr. Stevens demonstrating with Bill Dragolovich

“To react when needed, you need to practice,”  Stevens said.  “Practice a lot.”

Grandmaster Fred Carsky spoke about both stranger and work place attacks, drawing on his experiences in law enforcement and as a security consultant.   Most relationships can be expressed as either interview or ambush, Carsky said, demonstrating more escapes and holds.   He recommended reading “The Gift of Fear” by Gavin DeBecker for more insight into human reactions to fear. 
 
Grandmaster Henk Boese emphasized simplicity and stance in reactions, using quick, sharp moves.  Presentations were also made by Dr. Ron Locascio and Master Mike Fenske.  

The seminar was attended by black belt students from UW-Stevens Point Taekwondo Club, Stevens Taekwondo Academy, American Taekwondo and Fitness of Eau Claire, Rising Son Mixed Martial Arts of Wausau, Warhawk Karate Club of Whitewater and Dragons Training Center of Milwaukee.


Dr. Stevens demonstrates arm bar takedown on Sr. Master Bill Dragolovich




Master Jill Konopacky works with Shirley Thao

Tanner Rogers and Kevin Martin work on ground escape techniques with others