The art of mixed martial arts

I've always thought martial arts was the most graceful form of combat.

You only have to watch Thai kickboxing sensation Tony Jaa to realise that.

His breakthrough film, Ong-Bak, was pretty good and showcased his talents as an amazing martial artist.

The story wasn't up to much, but a film featuring Jaa is never going to centre on the story.
You spend the whole film waiting with bated breath for him to pick another fight, so you can marvel at his extraordinary abilities.

Although I can't kick a street lamp (see Jaa do just that here) I can see the benefits to co-ordination and balance that come from my Mixed Martial Arts training.

I'm one of the most hopelessly clumsy people in my eveyday life, but the twice weekly lessons are giving me a better focus and control of my body.

I have managed to stay injury free this week, but tonight's session could change all that.

Mr Lam has promised a particularly energetic evening.

On a different note, if you wanted any further proof that mixed martial arts is becoming increasingly popular, then look no further than Never Back Down (watch the trailer here)

This is MMA's American teen movie, a right of passage for any sport or artform (think Fast and the Furious and Bring It On to name two).
Regardless of whether the film is any good, it represents a massive step into the mainstream and should help to lift the discipline's profile in Britain.