FSD Training Day a Success!
Well, as always, this year's event was bigger and better than last year. An amazing turnout, informative workshops and focused participants, what else could you ask for? With so many things happening all at once it was special for us but also for the students to have an awesome, out of the ordinary Saturday afternoon. A big THANK YOU to the students and people who got involved to make this event a success!
Here are a couple of snapshots from the event. Enjoy! 
Sijo, our founder sharing his philosophies and insights about life, happiness, getting what you want, becoming a leader, and discovering what you were born to do.
Simultaneously we held our Kung-Fu Olympics for kids and gave out new belt promotions at the event headed by Sifu Stephane Patenaude.
We reserved 2 full gyms for the event, one side kids , one side Adults. The kids said it rocked! Obviously it did!
My sister, Sifu Christine, also had a chance to work one on one with the women of FSD.
Women's Self-Defense and Women's Fitness are 2 of her specialties. No one's going to mess with this group!
Sifu Patrick running through our Sanshou Drills. Integrating our Street, No rules Self-Defense System in a sport like Kickboxing was no easy task but with the success of our fighters in various competitions recently, they have shown the transition to be seamless and quite successful.
Events like this are great for kids. A major confidence booster. Offering the right guidance as well as building leadership skills is what real martial arts is all about.
Seeing so many people take fitness and health so seriously makes me really happy. Mastering the body and mind should be on everyone's priority list.
With the right instructor learning is fun and informative. Actually doing the techniques is easy and makes you realize "You can do this too!"
Spending some time teaching elements of the stick through the various ranges and what can be done in each of them opens your mind to the endless possibilities.
The day ended with our Submission Grappling Competition. Some guys fought some tough matches. Congratulations to Mathieu Lemay for Winning the competition!
I'll have other major announcements coming soon about Grappling and upcoming events related to that very shortly, Stay tuned!
There were several hundred pictures, I will upload more in the coming days.
Master Yourself,
Sibok M
P.S. Are you excited just by looking at these pictures? I am. Use that motivation and train extra hard today!
Labels: Fang Shen Do, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Sifu Alain Garofalo, Sifu Christine Patenaude, Sifu Patrick Marcil, Sifu Stephane Patenaude, Sifu Sîlvain Patenaude, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
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It's Louse Time! Repetition vs Modeling
If you're new to my list of focused, motivated, self-starters, Welcome. (if you're not new jump right away to today's lesson below)
Every day I communicate to you the best ways to train and the kind of mindset it takes to get results either in your physical fitness or martial art training. Friday is always what I call: "Louse Time". Modeled after Bruce Lee's strategy in Enter the Dragon. You know that part where he's having tea with the government agent but he's disturbed by one of his students and Bruce Lee tells the agent: It's Louse Time! The agent replies with his British accent: "yes of course". Since I'm 6 years old that scene has always stuck with me and I'll be using that same strategy with YOU every week.
Friday is where I share with you Life Lessons and Direction given to me by my dad (and Sifu) every Friday.
Today's lesson is: Repetition vs Modeling These 2 methods will certainly get you to where you want to go. You may need to do both. But you don't have to. One method leads you down a solemn road of trial and error, set-backs, frustration, pain, and hard work. The other method, the superior method gets you the same results in half the time. All you have to do is follow the plan and whatever you're looking for is within your grasp. Results come quickly and makes you wonder why you didn't follow this method in the first place. You've guessed it. Modeling is the preferred method for accelerated learning. Certainly, the old saying of: "Repetition is the mother of skill" holds some merit but modeling someone who already has what you want and in turn mimicking exactly what they did to get it is a guaranteed winner. This weekend you'll have the opportunity to do just that. All of our school owners, Sifus and students are converging in Casselman this Saturday morning at 10:30 am for a day of training and advanced learning. This event is open to all FSD Students and non students alike. Why should you attend?We try to organize these kinds of events as many times as possible throughout the year but still, it's not enough. Very seldomly will you have all of FSD's Top instructors, not to mention our Founder Sijo Jacques Patenaude all present in the same venue to help you advance your skills in Weapons, Grappling, Energy Work, Trapping Hands, Conditioning and Athleticism, Sanshou Sparring Drills and the list goes on. Priced at 30$, it's a no-brainer. To reserve your spot and register click here. Master Yourself, Sibok M Labels: Fang Shen Do, Fang Shen Do Review, FSD, Grappling, Louse Time, Modeling, Sanshou, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Sijo Jacques Patenaude, Trapping Hands
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Have a Great Day?
Have a great day! No, No, No. Have a great year! Again, no, no, no. Have a great decade! Sorry, no! I want a great LIFE! Whatever road you're on right now in your life, is it the right one? Are you happy and fulfilled? Only you can answer that question. As a starting point I strongly believe you should first find out what you love to do (my father takes it a step further and asks what you were BORN to do) and make a living from it. This way work doesn't feel like work at all and most of your time is spent on creation and developing new products your customers can use. I wanted to give you a heads up today about major improvements and new products being released very shortly at FSD Central. With over 30 new titles coming to the products section I still wanted your opinion on what you would like to see covered in our extensive martial art library. Let me know which product would best help you improve your skills and I'll get right on it to produce it for you. Thank you for taking the time to answer and sharing your thoughts. Master Yourself, Sibok M P.S. You don't have to be a student of FSD to answer. Many people are on my list from different backgrounds and have various goals in the martial arts and about fitness in general. Your feedback is appreciated. Labels: Fang Shen Do, Fang Shen Do Review, FSD, Life Lessons, Martial Art Lifestyle, New Products, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
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Priceless Life Lessons
Every year on March 10th I reflect on where I started and how far I've come. Even though my father started my training at the same time I started walking. March 10th, 1985 marks the date of my first official exam ( i.e White Sash) in my martial art training. The first rank is always memorable as it marks the beginning of your journey, and if taught right, what you learn at this level will serve you well throughout your ascension to Black Belt and beyond. In September 1984, my very first class, I learned an important lesson that will surely stick with me for the rest of my life. Lately I've been getting many flashes from my childhood, like one of my past posts about the split test my dad had me do when I was 11 years old. Have you had these happen to you? I'm sure you have. We all have them but I tend to focus on the ones where I learned something important or that I was successful at doing. That way, I can use it to get myself in the right state, physical and mental in the present moment when undertaking a task or project I'm working on. These are every important for your self-image and using past successes to fuel your goals and dreams in the now as well as give you confidence knowing you can accomplish them because of those successful past experiences truly is priceless. So what did I learn on that faithful day? My dad had us all lined up and ready to start class. Since I was training and watching classes way before I ever did an official one I already knew how to start the class (a very short form to get the class started that consists mostly of testing your balance and coordination) and I wasn't shy about letting the guy know in front of me that I knew it. At that point, my father gave me the "LOOK". That one look, with no words exchanged taught me a lesson that I would carry on in my training even to this day. I don't think any of the other 6 year olds got it but I did. "Whatever you think you know, you don't" "When it's time to talk, talk" "When it's time to train, train." "There's always something to learn if you just pay attention well enough". That right there has served me alot in my 26 years of training. This one lesson as well as many others have been very valuable in all areas of my life. All this to say: Use your PAST and get back to basics. Attack everything you do with a beginner's mind. Not only will you have more fun doing what it is you do, you'll learn faster, your enthusiasm and passion will soar and you'll get a different perspective on what you think you know. Master Yourself, Sibok M P.S. Want to learn a new skill? Find something of interest in our Product Section. Satisfaction Guaranteed! Labels: Attitude, Black Belt, Enthusiasm, Fang Shen Do, Life Lessons, Passion, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
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Full Split with No Warm-Ups
Back in 1989 my dad started what we called back then "Special Classes".  These classes were reserved for advanced students and were a way to test a whole bunch of different concepts and techniques from a wide variety of martial arts systems to see if they worked. The gamut of arts we experimented with was extensive and none of them were excluded. There are many lessons I learned during these sessions and one that comes to mind is the one on "Having no mind". Let me explain. At one of these classes my father was explaining this concept and how adults will sometimes over analyze and question "why should I do this" or" why should I do that" either in their heads or to their partner. And through this analysis, you've heard the statement: "Being caught in the paralysis of analysis" settles in. This analysis brings self-doubt, hesitation, and fear. At that moment, my dad put me on the spot. I was only 11 years old at the time. Just a kid. What my father went on to explain is when you're a child you don't question like adults do, you just DO. No questions asked. No excuses. No negative self-talk. No procrastination. He says: "Mart" (Everyone called me that before I was ever made a Sifu) "Come up here" I didn't know what the hell he was going to have me do and the class was packed with grown men staring at me. "Do a full split to the floor, and Daniel and Christian will lift you by your feet from each side, straight in the air and hold your balance". I had never done that before but that day I did. My goal isn't to share this story with you so you can say: "Wow you're great!" On the contrary, I just want you to know that you're great. You have the potential to do anything you set your mind to. BELIEVE and it can be achieved. Instead of finding all the reasons why you can't do something, Focus on doing the THING and with repetition you'll master the thing. Reach the point of No Mind, have total confidence in yourself and just go for it. Master Yourself, Sibok M P.S. Stretching is a great mind challenge. That's why I enjoy it so much. We've compiled some of the best stretching exercises you can do to reach total flexibility and finesse on DVD. Listen as I go through other important techniques I use to acquire, maintain, and not lose your flexibility. It's a great resource that no martial artist or athlete should be without. Get it here. Labels: Fang Shen Do, flexibility, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Sijo Jacques Patenaude, Special Classes
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Take the Stairs
 Although this is good advice from a fitness point of view it's not what I mean. When it comes to your personal development make sure you take the stairs, not the elevator. Taking short cuts in this area is not recommended. Sure the elevator is quick and effortless but nothing worth having and fighting for is acquired through its use. The elevator to the top is, has been, and always will be "out of order" in my view. In order to get to the top in any endeavor you'll have to take the stairs. And you'll have to take them one at a time. Luckily they are right in front of you and you know exactly how many stairs you need to climb to get to the top. Then when you do reach the top you'll be armed with the right tools to stay on top. You can choose to look up the steps or step up the stairs? Which one will it be? When establishing a strong Martial Art Foundation, specifically in Fang Shen Do or whatever style you practice, the first step I would recommend is FSD's 10 secrets volume which also comes with 2 free bonuses. An orientation DVD that furthers your understanding of the foundation and a goal setting tool we use to get you on track and focused when obstacles might get in your way. Take the first step here. Master Yourself, Sibok M Labels: 10 Secrets Book, Attitude, Fang Shen Do, Patenaude Kung-Fu, Personal Development, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
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Only for the Elite Class?
Just got back from an amazing weekend with my dad and brothers in Punta Cana. Although bathing in the sun was relaxing and energizing it couldn't compare to what we were exposed to, "Information Wise" over the weekend. As you might already know, secret societies have existed for thousands of years. There is one such society that is opening its doors to share with the world, information that was once kept only for the Elite Class. What does this have to do with martial arts? A martial artist is a warrior in every area of life, not just learning how to defend one's self or the ones you love but also protecting yourself from "Dream Stealers" and "Energy Leeches". Losers talk about Action. Winners Act. In anything you do it's important to surround yourself with like minded people. People that raise you up, not pull you down. Keeping this information for ourselves would be wrong. Which is why the first thing that came to mind today was sharing this with you. Hang out where we hang out, you need to be referred though. Invitation only. To access some of the info you'll need this affiliate code: 1508504 Visit this site only if you think you're worth more and think that in your life you feel like saying: "I can do better than this!" You can choose to become an affiliate (it's free) or become a full fledged member. Enter here.Master Yourself, Sibok M Labels: Attitude, Fang Shen Do, Life Lessons, Secret Societies, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
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Fruit is always on a limb
In other words, nothing is ever easy. To quote Zig Ziglar: "Most people wait until everything is just right before they do anything. They refuse to go out on a limb because they don't understand that the fruit is always on the limb." Everything requires a little bit of effort, action and faith. You have success and a personal champion within you waiting to be discovered. Do you know someone who is "gonna do something just as soon as..." Do you know them personally as in, maybe...You? The people who wait until everything is "just right" before they do anything will NEVER do it. The time will never be just right to start training and losing weight. Nor will it be to stop smoking, changing the food you eat or starting your own business and making a living doing what you're most passionate about. This is the underlying principle of the Fang Shen Do System. To knock out the "I'll get around to it" mentality plaguing so many people today. The best way to get things done is to FEEL good. And what better way to do that than by first mastering your body. A strong body invariably leads to a strong mind that ultimately gets you to follow through on what you want the most. Here's how to do it.Master Yourself, Sibok M Labels: Attitude, Fang Shen Do, Life Lessons, Personal Development, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
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Want a Fang Shen Do school in Kanata, Ontario?
After a few months of re-structuring, we've officially signed the lease for our new Kanata Location. Students can finally get back to training the art of Fang Shen Do as it was intended. The school has 2200 square feet of training area and will be loaded with top of the line equipment as well as a curriculum that will be monitored closely by Sijo Jacques Patenaude's oldest son Sifu Stephane. The address is 329 March Rd. with January 27 th being the school's first class and mid February for the official grand-opening. For past, present or future Fang Shen Do students in the Kanata area, we encourage you to connect with us on that date and experience the training and teaching straight from the Patenaude family. See you then, Sibok M Labels: Fang Shen Do, Kanata Location, Patenaude Family, Sifu Stephane Patenaude, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
www.fangshendo.com
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Inside Kung-Fu Article
I hope your training went well this weekend and that you are constantly making strides in the areas of strength, speed, endurance and flexibility. I wanted to point you to a 3 page interview in the latest issue of Inside Kung-Fu (March 2010 Issue), "A Life Changing Experience" by Inside Kung-Fu Editor Dave Cater where he interviews my dad, Sijo Jacques Patenaude on what martial arts training can do for you. If taught right, martial arts can help you accomplish more than just learn how to kick, punch or grapple. Strive for excellence in every area of your life. Fight for what you want, dream big and let no one tell you otherwise. Well worth the read. Master Yourself, Sibok M Labels: Fang Shen Do, Patenaude Kung-Fu, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
www.fangshendo.com
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Key component to feeling massive amounts of...
Even though I didn't have a chance to meet Bruce Lee in person while he was alive, through Bob Wall I feel like I have. Going through more pictures yesterday from Bob Wall's visit to Canada back in May as well as my time spent with him in July in Los Angeles brought back memories and some important lessons he shared with me.  I happened to interview him in early January of this year and should make it available very soon. Having such close ties to a man who trained and maintained one of the longest friendships with Bruce Lee is pretty cool indeed, considering not even a handful of people teaching Lee's art today can attest to that. What was also cool was asking him advice on one of my "Louse Time" Blog Posts that I usually do on Fridays while he was here in May. As you might already know, "Louse Time" originated from the hit movie Enter the Dragon which starred Bob Wall (Ohara) opposite Bruce Lee. The whole idea of Louse Time is to listen and forget what you think you know. Always resorting back to a beginner's mind has served me well in my training and I hope you do the same. To remain "Teachable" at every stage of your training and in life in general is a key component to feeling massive amounts of joy, motivation, and creativity. Some people find this out later in life, asking themselves: "Why didn't I listen more, do more, or take more chances?" Avoid these feelings of regret. Be teachable.
Master Yourself, Sibok M Labels: Bob Wall, Fang Shen Do, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Sifu Alain Garofalo, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
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What a night!
I had a chance to meet many of you at this year's End of Year Gala in Montreal 2 Saturdays ago. What a night. Watching the tribute video was both emotional and inspiring to see the years of dedication and what it takes to succeed in the competitive field of martial arts. 30 years and still going strong with this year being the greatest one of all. If you're a student or following us from wherever you are in the world, Thank You. This adventure my father has put us on is an exciting one filled with opportunities to meet great people, to better ourselves, and show other people the values of practicing martial arts. You are part of a winning team. Real people who lives and breathes martial arts everyday. We look forward to continuing to serve you in the new year that's just around the corner and may you accomplish all of your hopes and dreams in 2010. Look for many new products and services being offered at the start of the new year. From our family to yours, Happy Holidays. Sibok M Labels: 30 year Anniversary Celebration, Fang Shen Do, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
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It's Louse Time! Very Easy to Be Lazy
If you're new to my list of focused, motivated, self-starters, Welcome. (if you're not new jump right away to today's lesson below)
Every day I communicate to you the best ways to train and the kind of mindset it takes to get results either in your physical fitness or martial art training. Friday is always what I call: "Louse Time". Modeled after Bruce Lee's strategy in Enter the Dragon. You know that part where he's having tea with the government agent but he's disturbed by one of his students and Bruce Lee tells the agent: It's Louse Time! The agent replies with his British accent: "yes of course". Since I'm 6 years old that scene has always stuck with me and I'll be using that same strategy with YOU every week.
Friday is where I share with you Life Lessons and Direction given to me by my dad (and Sifu) every Friday.
Today's lesson is: Very Easy to Get Lazy Especially when you've finally gotten what you were running after. Have you had this happen to you? It could of happened to me if I didn't have my weekly lessons with my dad. Which is a good thing if you're also reading this blog post, it means you'll be reminded too.
Everyone is different but usually: Some get lazy physically after they get married or when they have kids. In martial arts it might be when you get a certain high rank. Others get lazy AFTER they've finally gotten themselves in shape and lost the excess pounds they had to drop. Some get lazy after achieving a certain level of success. Whatever the reason might be, the reality is: IT HAPPENS. It's important to realize this sooner rather than later. Complacency always finds a way in. Will you be ready? Do not be a shadow of what you could of been or what you were. Hold yourself to the highest standards possible in the areas of health and fitness. Stay excited about learning and acquiring new skills with child like enthusiasm. Be teachable and motivated to know there is still so much to learn. After each success, stop to celebrate, then get back to work immediately. Realize that success isn't a one time thing. Each day should be evaluated as being a success or a missed opportunity. Everything you have in your life, that which you are most happy or grateful about needs to be tended to and reminded that none of them are permanent unless you devote some time and energy to preserving them. Master Yourself, Sibok M Labels: Attitude, Fang Shen Do, Louse Time, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Sijo Jacques Patenaude, Success
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It's Louse Time! Protect the Garden
If you're new to my list of focused, motivated, self- starters, Welcome. (if you're not new jump right away to today's lesson below) Every day I communicate to you the best ways to train and the kind of mindset it takes to get results either in your physical fitness or martial art training. Friday is always what I call: "Louse Time". Modeled after Bruce Lee's strategy in Enter the Dragon. You know that part where he's having tea with the government agent but he's disturbed by one of his students and Bruce Lee tells the agent: It's Louse Time! The agent replies with his British accent: "yes of course". Since I'm 6 years old that scene has always stuck with me and I'll be using that same strategy with YOU every week. Friday is where I share with you Life Lessons and Direction given to me by my dad (and Sifu) every Friday. The purpose of Louse Time is to challenge a belief you might have or make you look at your training or life in general from a different perspective. Today's lesson is: Protect the Garden My dad shared something profound with me this morning. It's an important life lesson he's talked to me about before, just in a different way. It has to do with Protecting your Garden. Yes I know this is a good time of year to prepare the soil of your garden before winter and to make sure it's ready for the spring but that's not what I'm talking about. My dad is talking about the garden that is growing between your EARS. The garden you should be constantly tending to, cleaning up dead or diseased foliage (old ideas), removing debris (clinging to the past), leaves (things left undone), stakes and row markers (finding new goals), dead roots (trusting your own instincts), and any fruits and vegetables that may be spoiled (If you don't like the results you've been getting, change your approach). Most of you have no problem with protecting your property, your home or your car. But something way more valuable is often forgotten. Never forget to protect... Your Mind. Control what goes in. Enhance what comes out. Avoid Stinkin' Thinkin'. Read inspiring books, Turn off the TV and the radio, screen who you talk to and hang around with - ultimately blocking out all bad seeds, and listen to your own intuition when making decisions. In most cases it's always the right one. The quality of your thinking is in direct proportion to how much happiness, love, and success you'll get to attract and experience. Master Yourself, Sibok M P.S. What do you do with all that waste? The same way throwing disease or parasite infected waste into the compost could potentially spread the disease to your garden next year (old habits die hard), you'll want to either throw it away or burn it (replace the old habits with new ones). Start by making better health choices when it comes to food and drink and follow a proven system to get you fit, FAST. Get started here. Labels: Louse Time, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
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An important training secret
I was browsing some old pictures the other day and came upon a few of them that brought back some interesting memories.  One of them was a picture of my dad doing one-arm 2 finger push-ups back in 1977. I remember thinking when I first saw that picture: "How am I ever going to do that?" Or trying to do them in my basement when I was just a little kid and failing miserably, thinking my fingers were going to crack and bend backwards at the knuckles. "How could I ever become strong enough to lift my own bodyweight on two little fingers?" Many factors contributed to me eventually being able to perform this feat of strength, like following my father's advice, but there's also one thing that most people forget to include in their training. Chances are YOU have forgotten to implement this critical component in your training. Whenever you reach a level where you can easily perform a said exercise, you have to ask yourself: "What's next?" If you're working with weights it has to be an increase in weight. If you're running you have to cut your run time by 'X' time. The same is true with bodyweight exercises like the ones we incorporate in our Fang Shen Do training. This mentality is built into our training system and that's why it's such an effective way to train. If you're not already training with our Basic Strength Training Kit, what are you waiting for? If you already own the Basic System for the past 12 weeks why haven't you gotten the Intermediate level? Your strength and endurance depends on it. Keep the ball rolling. Force your body to adapt by constantly challenging it. There's just no other way to progress and get stronger but by asking yourself: "what's next?" Put yourself to the test and see what kind of results you can get, you never know, with the right intensity and consistency doing those 2 finger push-ups just might become too easy and leave you asking the inevitable question. Master Yourself, Sibok Martin P.S. Instead of figuring it out by yourself and spending years refining and deciding which exercises are best to build upon so you keep on progressing why not just pick up one of our Strength Training Kits today. Easiest thing you'll ever do. Labels: 2 Finger push-Ups, Fang Shen Do, Fitness, Sijo Jacques Patenaude, Station Training
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It's Louse time! Single Most Important Quality
If you're new to my list of focused, motivated, self-starters, Welcome. (if you're not new jump right away to today's lesson below) Every day I communicate to you the best ways to train and the kind of mindset it takes to get results either in your physical fitness or martial art training. Friday is always what I call: "Louse Time". Modeled after Bruce Lee's strategy in Enter the Dragon. You know that part where he's having tea with the government agent but he's disturbed by one of his students and Bruce Lee tells the agent: It's Louse Time! The agent replies with his British accent: "yes of course". Since I'm 6 years old that scene has always stuck with me and I'll be using that same strategy with YOU every week. Friday is where I share with you Life Lessons and Direction given to me by my dad (and Sifu) every Friday. Today's lesson revolves around the single most important quality you need to develop. Without it you can't accomplish anything worthwhile. Once you've acquired it, it will improve every area of your life. Through martial art practice this quality is harvested early on in your training. Armed with this quality there's nothing you can't accomplish or excel in. I'm talking about Self-Confidence. Think about it. If you had total confidence in yourself, what would you NOT do? From a physical standpoint, if you had confidence in your capabilities and felt like you mastered your body through martial art training and you knew you were strong, coordinated, flexible and agile, you wouldn't shy away from any physical activity or sport. If you had total confidence knowing you could protect yourself, would you travel more and see the world? What if you had complete emotional confidence? Feeling unafraid of criticism, failure, doing things differently, standing up for what you believe in? You don't grow unless you step out of your comfort zone. You know what? Confidence is not permanent. You constantly need to work on it, chase it relentlessly and not lose it. Keep challenging yourself. Stay sharp. Get the edge. Boost your confidence by attending our next Firewalking event held on October 25th. , finally acquire the piece of the puzzle that makes everything happen no matter what field you're in. Master Yourself, Sibok M Labels: Confidence, Fang Shen Do, Louse Time, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
www.fangshendo.com
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Oh Yeah!
If you were part of the team this weekend I'm sure you're walking around with a big smile on your face right now and if it's not on your face, it definitely is in your heart.  I'm a pretty active guy, I've been on many trips to different destinations around the world, I've searched for extreme activities to subject myself to, I've trained with some of the best in the world and none of what I've done or experienced comes close to living an experience like our Training Camp. Unique in every sense, the camp puts you to the test in all areas and forces you to dig deep within yourself to not give up when the going gets tough.  A facility like ours just doesn't exist anywhere else in the world. Even people who've been to the Shaolin Temple have told me how it doesn't compare.  Up to now our camp has been reserved to our own private students, up until now most people outside martial art circles don't even know our camp exists. But that will change this year and next. Our facility is big enough and equipped enough to hold a variety of different events that are either martial art related or geared purely for personal development and leadership training. If students of martial arts schools around the world only knew what we had here in our little town of Casselman, many would flock here for the experience.  Everyone should get to live this experience at least once in their martial art life. It's not impossible that you see another opportunity to be part of the Trainign Camp experience this year. I'll keep you posted and I'll upload more pictures from this year's camp tomorrow. Master Yourself, Sibok M Labels: Fang Shen Do, Outdoor training, Patenaude Kung-Fu, Sibok Martin Patenaude, Sijo Jacques Patenaude, Training Camp
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It's Louse Time! Because it feels Good!
If you're new to my list of focused, motivated, self- starters, Welcome. (if you're not new jump right away to today's lesson below) Every day I communicate to you the best ways to train and the kind of mindset it takes to get results either in your physical fitness or martial art training. Friday is always what I call: "Louse Time". Modeled after Bruce Lee's strategy in Enter the Dragon. You know that part where he's having tea with the government agent but he's disturbed by one of his students and Bruce Lee tells the agent: It's Louse Time! The agent replies with his British accent: "yes of course". Since I'm 6 years old that scene has always stuck with me and I'll be using that same strategy with YOU every week. Friday is where I share with you Life Lessons and Direction given to me by my dad (and Sifu) every Friday. The purpose of Louse Time is to challenge a belief you might have or make you look at your training or life in general from a different perspective. Today's lesson is: Because it feels Good! Often times people ask me how am I able to stay motivated after having trained for so long. Some people don't even stick with their fitness program more than 30 days let alone almost 30 years. I'm here to tell you: "What I have done, you can do". If you simply put in practice a few important words of advice as taught to me by my dad a long time ago, you'll never stray away from training or martial arts in general. One thing you must implement immediately is what you do and think AFTER your workouts. It's so simple most people miss it completely. The worst part is it only takes a few minutes yet for many the first thing on their minds after a workout is: Water! or Shower! I'm tired! Eat! I'm late! The first thing you should do after a workout is... Listen. Sit, Kneel or Lie Down and just listen. The best sound in the world is nestled in your chest...your heart beat. How precious is a heart beat? If you're a parent you still remember the feeling of relief the first time you heard your baby's heart beat at the first ultra-sound. You definitely remember the first time you and your lover were pressed up against each other in bed after intercourse. And especially after a workout, how precious it is to just listen and feel your pulse. It screams out at you: "You're Alive!" How great it is to be alive. This IS what it is for me. After every workout, it's a reminder to always be happy to be alive, my time here is precious, my life and my health is precious, no matter how hard it was to get myself to train or whatever I'm going through in my life, I have a heart beat, I'll be okay. It's this kind of association with training I have created, so you see, I have to train. It doesn't have to be long, take a few minutes to listen after your workout and get fired up to tackle the rest of your day. A training day like my heart beat, I can't miss one! Master Yourself, Sibok Martin Labels: Fang Shen Do, Louse Time, Philosophy, Sijo Jacques Patenaude, Training
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A little 4 letter word
It almost didn't happen. The Focus on Results Seminar.  It's a tradition to hold one every year at my Montreal, St-Denis location and have done so for the past 12 years but someone threatened this from happening again this year. Bob Wall. The F.O.R Seminar is always held in May of every year but since Bob was in town almost all of that month we were unable to keep with that tradition this year. It's such a powerful experience, both rejuvenating for the people returning to do it and electrifying for the ones who are experiencing it for the first time. It's a chance to recharge your batteries, regain focus on what you want if you feel like you're swaying away from your goals and it's a powerful metaphor for change. Why change?  I'm not talking about changing who you are. I'm talking about changing certain habits that might be holding you back. Your success or failure depends on very specific actions and choices you make. Success in the end is only dependent on how many times you made the right choice. Not necessarily what felt the best, because we all know some choices we need to make are often times painful at first, that's why most people choose the other, easier route. Deliberately failing to act on what it is you really want because of a little 4 letter word: F.E.A.R  Well, F.E.A.R during this seminar kinda gets thrown in a blender and taken apart to a point where you are F.E.A.R-less. What would you do or start immediately if you knew you couldn't fail? If there was absolutely no Fear and no chance of failure, and only followed your heart, how would you design your ideal life? These are the kinds of people training in our schools. People of action. Determined and focused. Not willing to make excuses or whine about their situation, armed with the belief that any challenge or obstacle can be surmounted and finally, the resistance you might encounter while reaching for your goals come from only one place, you're own mind. If you haven't already done so, join us here. Master Yourself, Sibok Martin Labels: Focus on Results, Montreal Location, No Fear, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
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I can have, be, do, whatever I set my mind to.
Do you find that 2009 is just flying by? June already? Around this time I usually take extra time to review where I'm at as far as goals and what I've accomplished. Also more importantly what is still unfinished and pending completion. I strongly recommend you do the same. Hopefully you took the time in January to write down a set of goals for the year or at least had a general idea of what you wanted to do. That resolution you took in January, is it still in effect? Or did you get "side tracked" (nice word to say: Gave up on it) Well, it's never too late to re-focus yourself and still end up losing the weight you wanted to lose, or stop smoking, or stick with your fitness and nutrition plan, or implement the lifestyle changes that would make you happier, more confident and accountable. That's why this weekend we're offering our students and the public alike a chance to recharge their batteries with a Focus On Results Seminar offered by our Founder, Sijo Jacques Patenaude. This event is one of my favourites. It's the perfect dose of fun, motivation, reflection, and instilling in you more determination, less fear, and getting in the habit of coming out of your comfort zone. Breaking arrows with your throat?  Talk about coming out of your comfort zone! We want to impress upon you that you possess great power if you direct your emotions in the right direction. That means FORWARD. Not BACKWARD, dwelling in the past with perhaps past failures or short comings. When you're done with this special 2 1/2 hour workshop you'll come out telling yourself: "I can have, be, do, whatever I set my mind to and I'll never let fear stop me ever again." Thousands of men, women and kids have broken arrows over the years and I'm inviting you to join the ranks of fellow arrowbreakers who refuse to be "just" average, who actually follow through on their goals, and will let no obstacle (even an arrow) stand in their way. The event is held at my St-Denis School in Montreal at 3 pm. You can reserve your spot right here, once you do you'll get a confirmation e-mail with all the pertinent details. Master Yourself, Sibok Martin P.S. WARNING: This is a high energy, dynamic event, risk of extreme excitement and emotional break throughs. Only sign-up if you accept the fact you might not be able to sleep that night! See you there! Here's that link again: F.O.RLabels: Determination, Focus on Results, Goals, No Fear, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
www.fangshendo.com
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You won't believe what happened this weekend
What a weekend! 150 of our closest friends gathered to celebrate my parent's 30th anniversary on Saturday. We got to see old pictures and video from the early days, celebrity congratulation videos from Gene LeBell, Don "The Dragon" Wilson, and Cecile Peoples to name a few. Like most of them said, It's not easy to stay in business in this business and anyone who can stay open and successful for 3o years deserves the utmost respect and applaud. Looking back at what my parents sacrificed, the trust they had in each other, the determination and guts it took to get started, the odds that were stacked up against them, I know it inspired everyone in the room to double their efforts whether in their martial art training, the goals they set, the love and care that goes into a relationship, to dare to dream big, to build something significant. My father's first student was also with us and sharing his experience. Presentations were made to the FSD owners for their effort and contribution to the system. My younger brother, Sifu Silvain received his 5th degree rank (Master Instructor) which consists of a black sash with one white stripe and 3 red ones. The white stripe represents LIFE and LEARNING. Specifically, "In Life I am always a learner", "Learning is a journey", "I am constantly trying to better myself". The red stripes represent KNOWLEDGE. The color red symbolizes FIRE. Fire like knowledge grows exponentially as you make your way through martial arts and life. What first started as a flicker then grows into a bushel of fire/knowledge. (3 stripes) This weekend I was also given a very high honor. Everyone knew except me. To my surprise my father presented me with the title of SIBOK. Which means "Uncle". The kind of "Protector" of the system placing me 2nd in command. You can imagine my reaction. I was speechless and full of emotion. Still people in the room captured how I felt about accepting this responsability and the commitment and dedication it took to get there. With my family all around me and my extended Kung-fu family watching, I respectfully accepted my father's request. I take my mission very seriously. "To inspire and lead by example". I hope you feel my sincerity through my words and the tips I offer you in my e-mails and blog posts, I want you to succeed and I'm willing to do everything in my power to give you the guidance and tools to do just that. You'll find all the tools I used to make my ascension to the level I'm at right here. Get started now. Master Yourself, Sibok M P.S. Again, Thank You Sijo, my mother, my family, my students, I'll make you all proud. Labels: Fang Shen Do, Mastery, Sibok, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
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Bob Wall is coming to town
 Bob Wall was one of the pioneers of martial arts back in the 60s. Along with his partner, Chuck Norris they owned 182 schools. Bob Wall authored the first "Who's Who in the Martial Arts" back in 1975. A sort of reference to martial art styles and instructors who've made an impact in the martial arts world. You'll find names like: Bruce Lee, Fumio Demura, Dan Inosanto, Chuck Norris, Bill Wallace, Joe Lewis, Gene LeBell, Al Dacascos, Jackie Chan, Cung Le, Benny Urquidez, Jean-Claude Van Damme and our very own Sijo Jacques Patenaude on page 282. Bob has met thousands of instructors, has studied with many masters, whenever he speaks or gives his opinion about something martial art or business related, I listen. Every industry has a person that has "been there, done that", someone that has lots of experience and is able to offer the right advice along with valuable feedback. It's the same as being complimented by Tiger Woods on your golf swing or Sidney Crosby praising your slapshot or Robert Deniro celebrating your performance on the screen. You know that their feedback is real, unbiased and worth something. That's what my father got when they happened to teach a seminar together in Germany last year. After that many years studying martial arts, one can tell a person's skill just by looking at them move, speak, or demonstrate. Bob was impressed with my father's accomplishments considering the lack of support from his first instructor proving once again that you are responsible for the kind of life you want to create for yourself. Turning 70 this year, he speaks and moves like a 30 year old. He is living proof of what leading a martial art lifestyle can do for your health, strength and youthful demeanor. I don't THINK martial arts can give you an edge in life, I KNOW it does. The coming weeks are loaded with opportunities to get to meet Bob in person as he is touring our schools and offering seminars on the subjects of Bruce Lee, what he learned from him during their 10 years working together before his untimely death, his work with the Machados, Gene LeBell and Chuck Norris. We're honored to have him in our schools as we know he is extremely busy with his Real Estate business, a self-made millionaire and very picky as to where he chooses to invest his time. Invest your time wisely also these coming weeks, here's a list of the seminar schedule: May 9 th Montreal 2:00 pm May 13 th Kanata 7:00 pm May 14 th Gatineau 7:00 pm May 15 th Laval 7:00 pm May 16 th Ottawa 11:30 am May 18 th Toronto 7:00 pm Register here: FSD MembersNon-membersLabels: Bob Wall, Patenaude Kung-Fu, Sijo Jacques Patenaude, Who's Who Book
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Secret to being Successful for 30 years
It's quite a feat, I can tell you that.  Looking back on my mom and dad's humble beginnings to what they've accomplished during the past 30 years, it should serve as inspiration to anyone who ever felt like they didn't have a chance or that the odds were stacked up against them.  In the end, your success rests upon YOUR shoulders. You can have great coaches, or maybe even bad instructors. You can read all the right books and articles. You might have support or no support from your family. You might be educated or self-taught. You might have all the right credentials and diplomas on the wall. You might be broke or wealthy. You might be young or old. You might be fearful or commited. None of those guarantee success or failure. What you do need is a burning desire, a clear vision, enough of the right reasons for wanting to reach the goals you've set, and consistently following through on them. Just being able to say: "I've been open for... or "I've been doing such and such for 30 years" isn't enough.  Stagnating for 30 years isn't success. Just like training at the gym the same way for 3-4 years, repeating the same boring routine, not making any adjustments and not tracking your progress weekly isn't what I call a successful fitness program. You should feel like you're steadily climbing. You and I should always focus on what my dad calls: "The More". More happiness. More peace. More strength. More love. More flexibility of mind and body. More...you get the picture? The "More principle" forces you to never set a limit or allow yourself to be complacent in any one area.  It's in our nature to slow down when we start feeling comfortable. It's also in our nature to stay trapped in our routines. If you do, there will be limited growth and a very average "life experience". Who wants to be 90, look back and realize you just lived an average life? Even just from a fitness standpoint, you know what they say about your stomach: "Take care of it for the first 50 years and it will take care of you for the next 50". Look at your training the same way. Build a strong fitness foundation now so when you get more mature you won't need to deal with so many health issues you might see your parents or grand-parents have. I think people get it. Especially after seeing so many people training at our event last week.  Martial Arts is fun, stimulating, challenging, and rewarding. There is no other activity that comes close to it. As we prepare for another 30 years, many more people will realize the importance of mastering their body and minds through the daily practice of martial arts. Only question is: Do YOU realize the importance of investing some time and energy into strengthening your fitness foundation?  You can fight the idea but eventually a visit to the doctor might point out high blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes, high cholesterol, back pain, low energy, or a weak immune system. Or it might come in the form of feeling unfulfilled with what you've accomplished in some areas of your life and starting your martial art training just might give you that nudge you need to start wanting more for yourself and your family. Intentio Superus (Aim Higher), Sifu Martin Labels: 30 year Anniversary Celebration, Fang Shen Do, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
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What is the meaning behind the Dragon?
People often ask me what the Dragon symbolizes. For that we have to go way back to 1991. The year the dragon was born. We had alot of ideas. I even had lots of drawings of how to represent our image, to establish our identity. We showed those to Doug Bernhardt. For those of you who don't know him, he's only one of the best sign makers in Ottawa. Specializing in Stained Glass in Gold Leaf, Embossed letters, the works. He's made signs for big corporations and most of the old irish and english pubs in Ottawa. My father is actually very good friends with him for about 30 years. They both had their beginnings in the same building, 335 Catherine Street, where we still reside to this day. We showed Doug our ideas and he says: "Those are great, the kid's got talent (me) but you've got to meet this guy, he's a master at developing Brands and a Top Notch Graphic Designer, his name is Don Wong. To make a long story short, Don reveals 2 symbols that completely blow us away. He was able to nail it down perfectly. It's very hard to explain that day. We finally had our own unique mark. You must be wondering what the other symbol is and why we're not using it. The design was so complex to reproduce we had to put a hold on it. In order to have it printed perfectly it had to be shipped out to western Canada. The process would be too labour intensive and very expensive. So we put a hold on it. Maybe one day we'll release it to the public. For the time being it stays in the vault. To this day printers still have a hard time getting the dragon exactly "Bang On" as Don would say. Filled with intricate details that most people don't really pay attention to. Don said the Dragon would bring lots of success and would establish us as a premier force in the Martial Arts, how right was he. The following is our interpretation of his work. The circle represents infinity or never-ending. In life you will always be learning and evolving. The red is a powerful color in oriental methodology. It brings luck and prosperity. It also represents sacrifice. In order to develop yourself fully you must make better choices and sacrifice some habits that dis-empower you. The 6 teeth inside the dragon's mouth represents the 6 ranges of development in Fang Shen Do. (Psychological, Weapons, Punching, Kicking, Trapping, Grappling) The dragon itself represents the art of combat. Life is a combat. You must fight to stay fit, stay focused, achieve your goals and dreams, find your place, to protect yourself and your family, to make a difference. It also has both soft and hard lines, it follows the concept of Yin & Yang. We need both to find balance. Now you know where the dragon comes from, now it's time you found out where it's going. Click here for a location near you. Aim Higher, Sifu Martin Labels: Fang Shen Do, Ottawa Kung Fu School, Patenaude Kung-Fu, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
www.fangshendo.com
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Kung-Fu Book sells well over 2000 copies!
Who would of thought that this little book would get this much attention? Some people prefer to see a technique or drill being applied, some need to be told, and some need to have it done on them to understand. Others need to read it and only then will it sink in.
10 Secrets to a Rock Solid Martial Arts Foundation
 lays the ground work for any serious martial artist who wants to gain an edge through physical development and creating strong mind/body connections as well as increase flexibility safely and quickly.
Learn from Sijo Jacques Patenaude as you find out unique life principles that led to opening one of the largest chains of kung-fu schools in Canada.
Literally starting with nothing, a gym bag, his girlfriend and a dream. Find out what started it all and who would be responsible for laying down the building blocks, the core principles that would shape his character and lead him to establish the Fang Shen Do System.
We refer to our system as the "FSD Project". It is alive, always growing, always learning, always evolving.
So what does it mean for you?
A guarantee, that you receive the most cutting edge principles and training techniques on the planet in the fastest time possible.
These 10 secrets will help pave the way for accelerated learning and give you the tools you need to succeed in all areas of your life.
Order your copy today,
Sifu Martin
Labels: Fang Shen Do, Kung-Fu, Sijo Jacques Patenaude
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