52 Masters

Sensei William Christopher Ford's documentary series provides a glimpse behind some of the top martial arts instructors in a variety of styles. Not just content to interview them, Ford brings the "beginner's mind" to the table, putting on a white belt and heading to the mat to train in those styles.

This series also serves as a historic record and treasure of some of the older legendary masters who we know won't be with us forever. This gives the viewer a chance to see and hear them, and sample their wisdom while we still have them around.

These episodes also examine the philosophy behind the various styles and arts featured. As a lifelong martial artist myself, it's enjoyable to "empty my cup" and taste all of the different "teas" that William presents.

A fun and informative docuseries. I enjoyed learning more about the different styles of martial arts, including the history of them. I liked learning about these instructors, most of whom I had never heard of, and what led them to their respective martial art. My favorite episode is the one with Sensei Ron Thomas, as he provides the reasoning behind the moves he demonstrates. As someone who came to martial arts later in life, I think it is inspiring of Sensei William Christopher Ford to take the time to learn more, especially when it may be somewhat outside of his normal comfort zone and more painful than he's used to. And as much as I hate working out, I actually found myself wanting to join in on some of those lessons.

What a great series for anyone who practices or is thinking of beginning their martial arts journey. Each episode offers an insight to a different martial art and explores why the Master began in the first place. It's jus a great way to introduce new styles, methods and philosophies while learning from some of the best.

This is a fun, informative and well done docu-series. Each episode, we get to follow Sensei William Ford as he trains in the different disciplines and converses with the respected and skilled, masters. I personally, enjoyed getting to know these individuals, their philosophies, training regimen and seeing their personalities as they interacted with Sensei Ford. He(Ford)seemed to really enjoy the training sequences as well as getting to know these masters. Thanks for sharing the journey!

Sensei William Christopher Ford ("Dennis" from The Karate Kid Part III) provides a compelling look at a martial arts master's journey to learn from various fellow masters. The "52" concept relates to his 52nd birthday and lessons from 52 martial arts masters from across many disciplines, including fellow Karate Kid alum Sensei Ron Thomas ("Bobby Brown" from The Karate Kid). Each episode contains practical techniques as well as historical insights and philosophies behind the different martial arts covered. Sensei Ford takes us along on his journey to learn practical techniques but also the larger context of where these disciplines can fit into your life. Highly recommend especially if you're a fan of The Karate Kid franchise and the hit series Cobra Kai. This is more than an instructional series and more than a martial arts docuseries. It's a compelling story of an accomplished master who becomes a student again - something we should all strive to do in our lives. Well done.