I grew up on two legs paralyzed and held strong by steel leg braces and powerful arms that faithfully propelled my body on two long tubular aluminum sticks. Crutches. This circumstance was caused by catching polio as a child of three months. I have lived in this glorious body on crutches from the very first step of my existence.
Because it was how I grew up and I knew of no other way, my body never grieved for what it never lost. I have lived a life full and very complete as a martial artist, a long distance endurance hand cyclist, a rock climber, a gymnast, an artist, an author, a teacher, and a scholar.
Over 20 years ago I began the quest of learning how to defend myself against local gang members in my neighborhoods where I walked. I have sought teachers who have taught me how to use my legs as steel rams, my hands as weapons for cinching and locking devices, and my crutches as long staffs able to break bones. Because I know how to stop a predator, I also know how to persuade them to become respectful. Without having to harm them. I have never had to injure anyone. And yet, no one takes advantage of me. Though some have tried.
I owe my gratitude to five primary teachers.
Sifu Tim McFarland of the California Martial Arts Institute in Sonoma California, who taught me Tang Lang, Praying Mantis Kung Fu. His instructions are steeped in the application of fighting skills. If a technique or form did not allow me to win in a street fight, then he did not ask me to learn it. His guidance included everything I had learned from all my previous training and then so much more.
Sensei Jeff Penner of the Honshinkan Dojo in Santa Rosa, California, who taught me Dan Zan Ryu Jujitsu. He guided me in the arts of off-balancing, leveraging, locking, breaking and throwing.
Professor Kevin Colten of Santa Clarita Jujitsu dojo in Santa Clarita, California, who with Sensei Penner assisted me in transferring a martial art that was designed for Fully Abled Bodied martial artists so that a Partially Abled Bodied martial artist, such as myself could perform it.
Teacher Walter Eichner of Eichner Taekwondo in San Francisco who helped me learn how to do flying crescent kicks while staying balanced on two crutches. He opened up in me the possibility of winning if attacked.
Grand Master Ron Scanlon, who demonstrated from his wheel chair the fighting skills in San Soo Kung Fu.
During this time I boiled down many hand-to-hand combat skills while walking and standing on crutches into a unique martial arts system that I have titled Tie Quai, Iron-Crutch, Kung Fu.
To see demonstrations of Iron Crutch Kung Fu and also Dan Zan Ryu Jujitsu standing and ground fighting, go to:
Steve Brumme on YouTube
Or go here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=76QGplvJ7jQ
If you would like to share your story with me, send me a line.