Comments on: Swimming Lessons from Bruce Lee

By: Soraya Barnhouse

Soraya Barnhouse — Thu, 13 May 2010 13:30:37 +0000

Thank you for your entry. It has given me a little to ponder. Thank you again!

By: Terry Laughlin

Terry Laughlin — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 06:22:53 +0000

Juliana
I’m always fascinated by the synthesis of ideas from martial arts as applied to swimming.
Thanks.
Terry

By: Rob Polley

Rob Polley — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 01:18:52 +0000

Just a thought about how I handle “I can’t” whether I am teaching elementary school or swimming lessons. I simply say, “I’ll try?” with a slight question mark tone. It’s amazing how quickly most “I cants” become “I dids” within a minute or 2 – sometimes less. I then try to follow up by asking, “What other things do you think you can’t do?” to encourage the idea that maybe the child can do THOSE things, too.

Thank you!

By: juliana

juliana — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 01:18:26 +0000

Good points to remember in a nutshell. Its application is relevant in the elevation of swimming as an art form like kung fu (skilful work). Indeed, it requres constant practice and focus against the opponent, in this case, density of water. Appreciate the extrapolation of ideas you made…swimming has become more interesting and enriching.

By: Shuumai

Shuumai — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 20:15:28 +0000

Typo in point #6. “…avoid heedless struggle.”

Point #3 is something I remind my kid about during bowling practice. “Don’t say, ‘I can’t make that shot.’” The mind is always at work manifesting our thoughts and intentions.

I don’t like the picture. Clearly Bruce wasn’t holding the katana when the picture was taken; look at the fingers of the right hand. (His grip would also be too narrow.) Most of all, he wasn’t really known for his sword skills.

By: Terry Laughlin

Terry Laughlin — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 17:34:03 +0000

I’m glad you like the article. Do you feel differently about the way in which Bruce Lee’s views are represented or their application to swimming?

By: TW

TW — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:01:56 +0000

I would be honoured!

Tim.

By: Terry Laughlin

Terry Laughlin — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:04:27 +0000

TW You have definitely improved upon the expression. May I borrow your edits to modify my original?

By: TW

TW — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 09:14:59 +0000

I like it. And agree.

Perhaps 2. would be better as: Don’t think about how far to go, or what happens when you get there. Mindfulness on each stroke, in the here and now, is Right Purpose.

And 4. Right Conduct I think is more about consideration for other swimmers. And also how you behave out the pool – eg. as an example to others. I think you have this one down

I’ve also noticed similarities between sitting(zazen) and swimming – something about alignment of the spine and a feeling through your back.

I find each practise feeds the other!