There are a variety of practical reasons for not trying to force your way through martial arts techniques. Here are 6 examples from my own experience:

1. It can lead to your partner's injury. Sometimes a joint lock isn't working because you don't have the right position. If you use force to "make it work" and then suddenly you slip into the correct position, then all that force goes into the joint before your unfortunate partner has time to tap out of it.

2. It can lead to your own injury. Sometimes a particular technique may not be appropriate for you. It's due to your physical conditioning or maybe your size relative to your training partner. If you can't do a particular kick due to lack of flexibility, for example, and you use force to try and "get it" you could strain your muscles. A better approach is to get your instructor to help you with it. They will likely give you a modified version of the kick to work on while you continue to work on your flexibility. Or say you're doing a ground sweep or a throw that isn't working for you because the person is so much bigger. If you try to force it, you could strain a joint or muscle. Ask for instructor feedback. They may be able to help you improve your technique to make it work more effortlessly, or they might give you a different technique that's more practical for your particular situation.

3. You'll conserve more energy. When you're doing a belt test or a competition, energy is at a premium. If you're use to using power to make things work, you may find yourself running out of steam, unable to give  an ideal performance. If you rid yourself of the habit of using force to make things work, you'll find yourself able to hold up over longer periods of time.

 4. You'll improve your martial arts skills  

The Universal Misunderstanding (Gracie Philosophy)

         

Smoothies are blended cold beverages that can be consumed with a spoon or by drinking. They are often a breakfast food or a snack, but they can serve as a meal replacement any time of day. While commercially prepared smoothies vary in calories, ingredients and nutritional value, you can easily make healthy smoothies at home using a blender or food processor.

Dairy Products

Healthy smoothies are good for you because they contain a low-fat milk base. They can be prepared using skim milk, low-fat yogurt or a combination of the two. The USDA explains that milk products provide vitamin D, calcium and potassium, ingredients that benefit bone strength and blood pressure.

Fruits and Veggies 

Fruits and veggies contribute vitamin A, vitamin C, fiber, potassium and antioxidants to smoothies. Common fruit choices include strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, cantaloupe, bananas, oranges, apples, lemons, grapefruits, pears, peaches, plums, kiwis, papayas, mangoes, pineapples and grapes. Common veggie choices include carrots, celery, spinach leaves, lettuce leaves and cucumber.

Nuts and Spices 

Smoothies with nuts contribute protein, healthy fat, fiber and minerals to your diet. Peanut butter, pecans, cashews, macadamia nuts, walnuts, peanuts and almonds are all good choices when used in moderation. Spices provide antioxidants an extra flavor kick. Try cinnamon, cloves, allspice, nutmeg, red pepper, cardamon or ginger. Experiment with spices in your own smoothies, adding a dash at a time.

Healthy Extras 

Smoothies are all about variety. Try adding one unusual, healthy ingredient every time you make a smoothie. Experiment with flax seeds, soy milk, tofu, almond milk, rice milk, honey, molasses, dark chocolate chunks, raw oats, instant coffee, wheat germ, sunflower seeds and sesame seeds.

Basic Preparation 

Whether a smoothie is healthy or unhealthy depends on its ingredients. Keep your smoothie in the nutritious category by keeping it to 12 oz. or less. Begin with a milk product base, add your other ingredients and crushed ice, if desired, and blend to desired consistency. You can leave small chunks of fruit in it or blend it completely smooth. Freezing fruit ahead of time will make a smoothie thicker. Avoid adding sugar or sugary syrups, focusing on nutritious ingredients instead. The American Dietetic Association recommends adding a small amount of dry non-fat milk for a frothy smoothie that is similar to a milkshake.

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