I’m privileged to be a member of the premier organization dedicated to the study and reconstruction of the Renaissance martial arts. The member’s e-list has some lively debate, and some regular gems. Here’s one from last Monday:
I have come to the realisation that the basics are the entire art.
That struck a deep chord in me, as it seems to be human nature to seek out “the secret”, a short cut, a silver bullet, a … you get my meaning. There seems to be something in human nature that want to discount the simple, basic truths. No, they’re not “sexy” or “cool”… but they work every time they’re applied.
The basic teachings of sword fighting are the entire art. We learn refinement along the way as our experience grows. The basics of becoming fit encompass the entire “art” of creating a new self. As we act, we learn. As we learn, we can refine and fine tune.
Debating minutia won’t produce real-world results. Only the basics applied, and applied consistently. Only when you’re in motion can you correct your course.
I love your idea of creating the “entire art” of fitness.