Shugyo 修行: The Way of Training

Swire Ho
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Self-Improvement

About the Show Shugyō, or 修行, is an embodied practice: you learn and shape yourself by doing the work, again and again. You train toward a goal, but reaching it isn’t the end of the practice. Our podcast dives into the journeys of martial artists, competitors, and teachers, uncovering how they train, what challenges they face, and how they transform through their own Shugyo. Our Mission To create a community that learns from the struggles, lessons, and victories of martial artists and athletes — showing how the path of training can inspire resilience, growth, and personal excellence.

  1. 6d ago

    Training to Compete, Learning to Teach: Annette Yoshiko Reed on Muay Thai

    Annette Yoshiko Reed started Muay Thai in her mid-40s. At 49, she entered her first match—and found herself trying to gain weight to compete in her division. After that match, Annette trained differently. She added more strength work through Five Points Academy’s StrongFirst kettlebell program and later took up barbells. She tells Swire Ho how building muscle helped her gain weight, feel stronger in the clinch, and prepare to compete against larger opponents. Annette is also a professor. Becoming a Muay Thai student again reminded her what it feels like to struggle with something new, make mistakes, and keep showing up. She shares how those experiences changed the way she teaches. Connect with Annette Substack: https://humanhistoriesofkn.substack.com/ Faculty page: https://www.hds.harvard.edu/people/annette-yoshiko-reed Five Points Academy: https://www.academyfivepoints.com/coaches/annette-reed Instagram: @ayreed Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/annette.y.reed Follow Shugyō YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ShugyoPodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XleA8dXYJBIRDXECRAYVD Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shugyo-%E4%BF%AE%E8%A1%8C-the-way-of-training/id1840214324 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Shugyo.Thewayoftraining Support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/shugyo

  2. Sep 16

    Aikido for Self-Protection: Beyond Technique | Eugene Morales

    What does it mean to learn how to practice—not just learn another technique? In this episode of the Shugyō Podcast, Swire Ho talks with Eugene Morales, co-founder and chief instructor of Pro Sessions Apex Training in Upland, California. Eugene began Aikido as a family activity with his wife, Sandra, and their son. He spent 17 years training under Sensei James Nakayama and shares the lessons that still guide his teaching: removing unnecessary movement and making sure a student understands a correction before walking away. We discuss his approach to civilian self-protection, realistic training scenarios, and why awareness matters before any physical technique. Eugene also explains how breaking movements into small steps helps beginners experience success—and why he sees technique as the result of good practice, rather than the goal. The conversation closes with running a dojo: getting clear about what you offer, attracting committed students, and recognizing that more leads don’t always mean the right fit. Topics covered Starting Aikido together as a family Learning from Sensei James Nakayama for 17 years Precision, simplicity, and removing unnecessary movement Making sure students understand corrections Aikido, Urban Combatives, and civilian self-protection Situational awareness and controlling training intensity Learning how to practice through small, clear steps Helping beginners experience early success Student commitment and dojo culture Clear messaging and attracting the right students Connect with Eugene Morales Website: https://prosessionsapextraining.com/ Aikido program: https://prosessionsapextraining.com/aikido Phone: 855-905-5504   Connect with the Shugyō Podcast Listening platforms and social links: https://linktr.ee/shugyopodcast Follow or message the show on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Shugyo.Thewayoftraining Support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/shugyo If this conversation gave you something to bring back to your training, share it with a training partner or instructor. Follow Shugyō for more conversations about the lifelong practice of martial arts.

  3. Sep 2

    Why Every Martial Artist Should Train with Kettlebells

    In this episode of the Shugyō Podcast, Swire Ho speaks with Andżelika Stefańska-Kowalik, a Kung Fu practitioner, international competitor, and StrongFirst Certified Master Instructor based in Kraków, Poland. Andżelika began her martial arts journey in Hung Gar after years of dreaming about Kung Fu through old Hong Kong martial arts movies. She later represented the Polish National Team at the Traditional Wushu Championships in China, winning bronze medals in Shiyan in 2010 and silver and bronze medals in Huangshan in 2012. The title of this episode is “Why Every Martial Artist Should Train with Kettlebells.” Andżelika makes a strong case for that idea by explaining how proper strength training can support martial arts without making you bulky, slow, or exhausted. We talk about: How Andżelika discovered Kung Fu and began training at age 25 Representing Poland at the Traditional Wushu Championships in China Why many martial artists misunderstand strength training The fear of becoming bulky, slow, or stiff How kettlebells can build explosiveness, stability, and power transfer Why strength training should make you feel stronger, not exhausted The role of breathing, recovery, and relaxation between actions Why swings and get-ups are useful for martial artists Flexibility versus usable strength through range of motion Training for longevity, independence, and the ability to keep practicing for life Andżelika also shares one of the most important lessons of the episode: strength training should support your martial arts, not steal energy from it. As she explains, after strength training, you should feel stronger, not exhausted.   Connect with Andżelika Stefańska-Kowalik Website: https://en.tigerzone.pl Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndzelikaTigerZone Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andzelika_strongfirst_tiger/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/AndzelikaTigerZone StrongFirst Profile: https://www.strongfirst.com/instructors/poland/andzelika-stefanska.001370000076XkJAAU/ Connect with Shugyō Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Shugyo.Thewayoftraining Linktree: https://linktr.ee/shugyopodcast Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/shugyo

  4. Aug 25

    What Qigong Really Does for Martial Artists | Jonathan Snowiss

    In this episode of the Shugyō Podcast, I speak with Jonathan Snowiss, a longtime practitioner and teacher of Chinese martial arts and qigong. Jonathan began learning qigong at age 11 after being diagnosed with epilepsy. His early training came through a qigong master from Shanghai, even though Jonathan did not speak Chinese at the time. He later continued his study through Pitzer College, where he created his own qigong and mind-body healing major, combining Chinese language, philosophy, religion, and martial arts practice. In this conversation, we look at what qigong actually does for martial artists. Jonathan explains why qigong is more than slow movement and breathing. We talk about relaxation, posture, structure, breath, unnecessary tension, and how qigong can help martial artists train with better awareness and longevity. We also discuss the myths around qigong, including movie-style superhuman powers, martial arts novels, iron palm, and the difference between real internal training and exaggerated claims. Jonathan also walks through a simple introduction to Zhan Zhuang, or standing-post practice, and explains how beginners can start with just five minutes once or twice a day. Topics include: How Jonathan started qigong at age 11 Learning from a qigong master through Chinese translation Studying qigong at Pitzer College What qigong actually means for martial artists The difference between relaxation and weakness Breath, posture, structure, and body awareness Common myths and misunderstandings about qigong How qigong can support karate, kung fu, MMA, judo, jiu-jitsu, and other martial arts Why posture and unnecessary tension matter How to begin Zhan Zhuang standing practice Training for longevity instead of short-term performance Contact Jonathan Snowiss: Email: snowissj@yahoo.com Connect with Shugyō Podcast: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/shugyopodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Shugyo.Thewayoftraining Please like, comment, and share this episode. Your support helps more martial artists and thoughtful practitioners discover these conversations.

  5. Aug 4

    Finding the Flow: Tori Brillantes on Eskrima, StrongFirst, and Strength at 66

    In this episode of Shugyō — The Way of Training, Swire Ho speaks with Tori Brillantes, an Eskrima world champion and StrongFirst Elite instructor. Tori began serious Eskrima training later in life, but within a short period of focused training, she qualified to represent the United States and became a women’s lightweight world champion in the Philippines. During her final championship fight, she experienced what her teacher called “the flow” — a state where time seemed to slow down, her breathing became clear, and her body continued to perform under pressure. More than two decades later, Tori found a similar feeling again through StrongFirst kettlebell training, especially during the 100-repetition snatch test. At 66, she describes herself as the strongest she has ever been. This conversation explores Filipino martial arts, competition, fear, focus, kettlebell training, aging, mobility, recovery, and what it means to keep learning through every stage of life. In This Episode How Tori discovered Eskrima later in life Why her teachers encouraged her to compete Training for full-contact Eskrima with only a short preparation window Fighting through fear, pressure, and fatigue Becoming a women’s lightweight Eskrima world champion Experiencing “flow” during the final championship fight How StrongFirst kettlebell training reconnected her with that same state of focus Becoming StrongFirst Elite within two years Why mobility, recovery, nutrition, and sleep matter more as we age How Tori trains clients in their 60s, 70s, and 80s Why strength is not only for youth — and why it is never too late to begin Connect with Tori Brillantes Website: https://brilliantbodyandmind.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toribrillantes/ https://www.instagram.com/brilliantbodyandmind/   StrongFirst Certification Standards Videos Tori discusses earning StrongFirst Elite status, which includes StrongFirst kettlebell, bodyweight, and barbell certifications. For listeners who want to understand the testing standards, here are the official StrongFirst videos: SFG I — StrongFirst Kettlebell Level I Technique Testing Standards https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQEFc6rSKvA SFG II — StrongFirst Kettlebell Level II Technique Testing Standards https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tu2TxJ6eWPA SFB — StrongFirst Bodyweight Certification Standards https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H04K6q_0O00 SFL — StrongFirst Barbell Certification Standards https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jGGkMcKwiAM Support Shugyō Shugyō Linktree: https://linktr.ee/shugyopodcast Shugyō Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Shugyo.Thewayoftraining Support the podcast on Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/shugyo About Shugyō Shugyō 修行 means deep, disciplined training — the kind of practice that shapes not only skill, but character. This podcast explores the stories of martial artists, teachers, competitors, and lifelong practitioners to understand how training changes the way we face challenges in martial arts and in life.

  6. Jul 28

    The Fighter, the Coach, and the Kettlebell -- Steve Milles

    In this episode of the Shugyō Podcast, Swire Ho speaks with Steve Milles, co-founder of Five Points Academy in New York City, Arjan under Grandmaster Chansadeth Chantanao, former USMF Team USA Coach, WKA USA Team Coach, and StrongFirst Certified Senior Instructor. Steve shares how he discovered Muay Thai almost by accident after moving to New York, then followed that curiosity all the way to Thailand, where he trained, lived in camp, and stepped into his first professional fight. From there, he built a career as a fighter, coach, and teacher. The conversation explores what separates training from fighting, why some people perform well in the gym but struggle under real pressure, and how a fighter’s development depends not only on personal discipline but also on the quality of the team around them. Steve also discusses the role of strength training in combat sports. For years, many fighters believed lifting would make them slow, stiff, or too bulky. Steve explains how properly programmed strength work can help fighters move better, hit harder, manage fatigue, reduce injury risk, and stay within their weight class. This episode is about Muay Thai, coaching, fighter mindset, and building strength that supports the art instead of replacing it. Topics Covered How Steve first discovered Muay Thai in New York Training in Thailand and stepping into his first professional fight The difference between training hard and being ready to fight Why fighting is an individual sport that still requires a strong team Coaching recreational students versus competitive fighters Common myths about fighter training Why strength training does not have to make fighters slow or bulky How kettlebells helped Steve move better after years of accumulated injuries Simple strength programs for busy fighters The role of swings, get-ups, deadlifts, pull-ups, and clean-and-jerk work The StrongFirst Combat Course with Ronen Katz and Benny Meyer Training for longevity, performance, and confidence Guest Contact — Steve Milles / Five Points Academy Website: https://www.academyfivepoints.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fivepointsacademy/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FivePointsAcademy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FivePointsAcademy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-milles-4764687 Support Shugyō Podcast Shugyō Podcast Linktree: https://linktr.ee/shugyopodcast Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/shugyo

  7. Jul 3

    Chris Walsh on UK Karate Podcast, Dojo Culture, and Training Beyond the Belt

    In this episode of the Shugyō Podcast, Swire Ho speaks with Chris Walsh, co-host of the UK Karate Podcast and a lifelong karateka who began training as a child under his father. The conversation explores Chris’s early years in karate, what old-school training looked like, and how the role of mentorship shaped his development. Chris shares his thoughts on why mentorship matters in martial arts, how younger instructors can be supported, and why karate should build more than technical skill. Swire and Chris also discuss the difference between teaching and mentoring, the importance of keeping high standards without training through injury, and how the dojo can give students confidence, structure, routine, and purpose beyond the physical training. This episode is about karate, mentorship, fatherhood, dojo culture, and the responsibility of helping the next generation grow — not just into black belts, but into better people and future leaders. Guest: Chris Walsh Co-host, UK Karate Podcast Website: https://www.ukkaratepodcast.co.uk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukkaratepodcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukkaratepodcast/   Support Shugyō Podcast: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/shugyopodcast Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/shugyo Listen, share, and continue the training.

  8. Jun 17

    Strength Without Stiffness with Sifu Oscar Agramonte

    In this episode of Shugyō: The Way of Training, we sit down with Sifu Oscar Agramonte, senior instructor of Wah Lum Kung Fu, strength coach, and StrongFirst instructor. Oscar shares his martial arts journey from Taekwondo to Wah Lum Kung Fu and how his pursuit of better movement, strength, and performance led him into the world of kettlebells and StrongFirst training. We explore the role of Tam Tui, deep stance training, mobility, and flexibility in traditional Kung Fu, and discuss how modern strength training can complement martial arts without sacrificing speed, coordination, or technique. We also dive into one of the most important concepts in both martial arts and strength training: learning when to relax and when to create tension. Whether you're a martial artist, strength athlete, coach, or lifelong student of training, this conversation offers valuable insights into developing power, movement, and longevity. Topics Covered: • Oscar's martial arts journey and introduction to Wah Lum Kung Fu • Tam Tui, stance training, and leg strength • Why flexibility alone is not enough • Strength training for martial artists • How kettlebells develop explosive power • The StrongFirst approach to training • Breathing, tension, and relaxation • Learning through practice and repetition • Longevity and lifelong development through training Learn More About Oscar: Wah Lum Kung Fu Temple https://www.wahlum.com/ Control Your Health https://www.controlyourhealth.net/ Connect with Shugyō: Linktree https://linktr.ee/shugyopodcast Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Shugyo.Thewayoftraining Support the Podcast https://buymeacoffee.com/shugyo

See All (22)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

About the Show Shugyō, or 修行, is an embodied practice: you learn and shape yourself by doing the work, again and again. You train toward a goal, but reaching it isn’t the end of the practice. Our podcast dives into the journeys of martial artists, competitors, and teachers, uncovering how they train, what challenges they face, and how they transform through their own Shugyo. Our Mission To create a community that learns from the struggles, lessons, and victories of martial artists and athletes — showing how the path of training can inspire resilience, growth, and personal excellence.

Information