By Michael Finn Training in a real martial art requires and builds perseverance and fighting spirit. You enjoy the benefits not only on the mat but also in daily life which is why the arts remain so popular centuries or even millennia after they were developed for combat. I know this because i’ve spent the past 60 years following the martial path. Writer and Photo Credit: Michael Finn I began my journey in 1955 with the London Judo Society, then delved into aikido, kendo and karate. I joined t