10 TIPS FOR A BETTER WEAPONS FORM
Competing with Michael Bernardo

article from KARATE-KUNG FU ILLUSTRATED MAGAZINE
Interview by Jim Perkins Feb 1999 issue

Following are 10 tips that will help you improve your weapons form

1. Set a series of goals

2. To chart your progress, consider entering at least three tournaments during
the next several months.

3. Decide how to measure your progress. Remember, the only thing in weapons
forms you can control is your own performance. You can't control your score or
your competitors' scores. Consequently, you can't decide that you're going to finish
first in a particular tournament. Your goal should be to do the best weapons kata
(form) you have ever done. This is quite a challenge, considering the pressure from
the judges and the spectators.

4. Establish a training program that will help you reach your goal. My own program is
centered around "Terrific 10 Forms." I perform this program at least three times a week.
Here's how it works: I do my form 10 times in a row in specific increments. For example,
I do it once, and I rest. I do it two times in a row, and I rest. I do it once, and I rest.
I keep alternating like this until I've done it 10 times. This program really improves your
endurance, which you need during competition. When you can do all 10 with only a 60 to
90 second rest between sets, you are ready to compete.

5. Work on your technique. Separate your form into sequences of techniques. Practice the
sequences separately and get them perfect. The sequences must all flow together seamlessly.

6. If you have trouble hanging onto your weapon during a particular portion of your form,
give that sequence extra attention. My rule is that you should be able to perform a move
flawlessly 10 times in a row before you add it to a form.

7. Don't change your form too much. Only through constant repetition can you focus your
mind into one thought "I am going to be strong, awesome, and incredible!" Through
repetition, your mind will not drift onto negative thoughts about dropping your weapon or
forgetting your form. Your mental preparation is formed through your hard, physical work
prior to the event.

8. Once you compete, reflect on your strengths and your weaknesses. Do not blame the
judges for your scores. Instead, search for ways to make your form undefinably the best
form they will see.

9. Watch your fellow competitors. I drew inspiration from athletes like Chris Casamassa and
Kevin Thompson. I knew the only way to compete with them was to try to out-train them,
as they were always training to win!

10. Success is a journey, not a destination! Have fun and train hard!