"The wonderful thing about bluntness…is that it gauges the strong and intimidates the weak."
Rather than nod in agreement when our instincts cried. WRONG! or kow-tow to the militant misconception that fear equals respect or pander to the egos of the political forces of the martial art community, we have said what needed to be said. Clearly and bluntly.
Chu Fen Do and the PANIC ATTACK system has de-mystified much of the hype and alleged magic surrounding the martial arts. In short, we have broken from tradition, which has always been taboo. To say the least, our system is controversial. We have created quite a stir over the years. Here is a brief explanation of not so much what is, but why is Chu Fen Do. Firstly, it is important to note the difference between a `system' and a `style'; `Style' is a particular type of expression, and it is bound by that expression. A 'system' is comprised of interdependent items forming a unified whole.
Chu Fen Do is a system, not a style. Though it is comprised of many original and innovative strategies and tactics, it does contain modified techniques inspired by other styles or martial artists. I emphasize modified for a good reason. Putting a composite system together is not just a question of combining several arts. Some styles are diametrically opposed and will never blend.
I am often asked which styles make up Chu Fen Do. The answer: no styles. From an athletic perspective, there have been influences from Western Boxing, Thai Boxing, Jiu Jitsu, Wrestling, Wing Chun and so on. Intellectually, I really respect modern warriors like Robert Bussey, Walt Lysak Jr. and Deane Lawler. They are rare, original thinkers who have inspired my growth with their commitment to their art. Of course the great Bruce Lee contributed through his writings.
But, remember, no technique or style ever won a fight. Martial artists have a hard time grasping this. It is always a fighters heart, faith, tenacity, audacity and conviction that creates victory; the actual tactic is incidental. Even back in 1979, when I coined the name Chu Fen Do, I knew that the techniques were not as important as the philosophy. Reason will guide you. That is why (not what) Chu Fen Do translates as 'The Way of Punishment'. This concept of `punishment' serves a dual purpose. It refers to the punishment we inflict on our bodies in our quest to become warrior athletes as well as the punishment we will [regrettably] inflict on our opponents when a confrontation cannot be avoided. No ambiguity. Simple. Direct. Effective.
Philosophically speaking, students are referred to as technicians (those who perform supervised experiments in a clinical environment). Then they become experts (I define experts as, someone who has memorized someone else's material), then they become scientists – a scientist explores, creates the experiment. We do not wear belts. Nor do we place a great emphasis on rank. (We do have 12 levels that serve as goals and benchmarks.) Our students, respect that the systems directive is personal protection. They realize the process towards confidence is more valued than the rank. Besides, in a fight, your belt colour only matters if it matters to your opponent.The truth, in a world of deceptions, appears blunt and painful; change frightens many. Myopia is a common affliction, people can only teach what they know. I have spent considerable energy trying to create paradigm shifts, I have learned to leave the doubters and malcontents to their own fate and battle with Karma. Typically and sadly, combat strategies only change after a disaster. A bit late if you ask me. Don't you make that mistake. Good luck. Stay safe.
Tony Blauer
