John Joseph Kerecz, also known as “Crazy John,” is widely recognized for his multifaceted career in writing, music, and adventure. However, beyond his creative pursuits, Kerecz has spent a lifetime honing his skills in martial arts, a discipline that has shaped not only his physical abilities but also his mental and spiritual outlook. With master rankings in Hapkido, Kenpo, and Jujitsu, Kerecz is a testament to the transformative power of martial arts and the enduring values of discipline, perseverance, and respect that these practices cultivate.
Early Interest in Martial Arts
Kerecz’s journey into martial arts began at a young age, driven by a fascination with both the physical and philosophical aspects of combat. Martial arts, with its emphasis on balance, control, and self-defense, captivated him and quickly became an integral part of his life. Kerecz’s commitment to the martial path was not solely about learning how to fight; it was about understanding the deeper principles of life that martial arts teach, such as discipline, respect, and self-awareness.
Mastery in Hapkido
One of the first martial arts in which Kerecz earned a master ranking was Hapkido, a Korean martial art known for its comprehensive approach to self-defense. Hapkido focuses on leveraging an opponent’s energy against them through joint locks, throws, kicks, and strikes. It emphasizes the use of circular motion to redirect force, making it highly effective for practitioners of all sizes.
Kerecz’s mastery of Hapkido allowed him to develop exceptional coordination and precision. Through years of dedicated practice, he honed his skills in controlling an opponent’s movements, mastering the subtle yet powerful techniques that define this martial art. For Kerecz, Hapkido is not just about physical combat; it’s a way of life that teaches harmony, patience, and the importance of mental agility.
“Hapkido is about control—not just over your opponent, but over yourself,” Kerecz once remarked. “It teaches you to remain calm under pressure and to find balance in every situation, both on and off the mat.”
Kenpo
Kerecz also holds a master ranking in Kenpo, a martial art that emphasizes speed, efficiency, and the use of natural body movements for self-defense. Originating from Japan and refined in the United States, Kenpo is characterized by its fluid strikes, rapid combinations, and adaptability to real-world combat situations. Practitioners of Kenpo are trained to quickly neutralize threats through strategic, well-placed strikes to vital points of the body.
In Kenpo, Kerecz found a martial art that resonated with his own quick reflexes and analytical mind. The art’s emphasis on practical, real-world applications of combat appealed to Kerecz, who values the ability to respond effectively in any situation. Kenpo’s approach to self-defense focuses on overwhelming an opponent with precise strikes in rapid succession, making it one of the most effective martial arts for personal protection.
“Kenpo taught me the importance of being ready for anything,” Kerecz noted. “It’s not just about fighting—it’s about being prepared, being efficient, and staying one step ahead of your opponent.”
Jujitsu
Rounding out his martial arts expertise, Kerecz earned a master ranking in Jujitsu, a Japanese martial art that specializes in grappling, ground fighting, and submission techniques. Often referred to as “the gentle art,” Jujitsu focuses on using leverage and technique to defeat an opponent, rather than relying on brute strength. This makes it particularly effective in situations where a smaller person may need to defend themselves against a larger, stronger opponent.
Jujitsu’s emphasis on ground control, joint locks, and chokeholds requires immense skill and patience, qualities that Kerecz cultivated throughout his training. His mastery of Jujitsu reflects his ability to remain calm in high-pressure situations, using his knowledge of anatomy and physics to gain the upper hand in combat. Jujitsu, perhaps more than any other martial art, requires a deep understanding of an opponent’s body and movements, as well as one’s limitations.
For Kerecz, Jujitsu is as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. “In Jujitsu, you learn to embrace the struggle,” he explained. “It teaches you how to remain composed when things don’t go your way and how to find solutions even when you’re under immense pressure.”
The Martial Arts Philosophy
While Kerecz’s martial arts skills are undeniably impressive, it’s the philosophical lessons he has learned through his decades of training that have had the most profound impact on his life. Martial arts, for Kerecz, is not just about physical combat; it’s a lifelong journey of self-improvement, discipline, and balance.
The mental and spiritual components of martial arts have played a crucial role in shaping Kerecz’s approach to life and his other pursuits. Whether he’s writing music, exploring the world, or engaging in creative projects, Kerecz applies the same principles of focus, discipline, and perseverance that he’s developed through martial arts. His ability to remain calm under pressure, his determination to push through challenges, and his respect for others all stem from the lessons he’s learned on the mat.
Applying Combat Skills to Life’s Adventures
Kerecz’s mastery of martial arts has not only enriched his personal and creative life but also enhanced his numerous adventures around the world. His training in Hapkido, Kenpo, and Jujitsu has provided him with the physical endurance and mental resilience necessary to undertake daring exploits, such as his trip to the edge of space and shark cage diving. The discipline he’s developed through martial arts has allowed him to navigate these challenges with confidence, composure, and respect for the unknown.
Today, John Kerecz’s dedication to martial arts continues to inspire those around him. His commitment to lifelong learning, both in combat and in creativity, serves as a reminder that mastery is not about reaching a destination but about constantly pushing oneself to grow and improve. Whether teaching others the principles of martial arts or using his combat skills to approach life’s challenges with a calm and focused mind, Kerecz embodies the spirit of a true martial artist.
Through his mastery of Hapkido, Kenpo, and Jujitsu, Kerecz has not only become a formidable combat expert but also a role model for those who seek to cultivate discipline, resilience, and balance in their own lives.