By Gene Ching

In October 2005, the Martial Arts Channel (MAC) launched a new interactive broadband experience it calls CMX (Club Mac Xtreme™). This is another step towards the dream of a cable network solely devoted to the martial arts. Efforts to launch such a network have been percolating for years. Five years ago, Centerseat attempted a broadband webcast network that promised to spotlight the odd bedfellows of Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Women?s Judo, Ju-Jitsu, Swing Dancing and Skateboarding. After an aggressive ad campaign for most of 2000, Centerseat's website folded. However, that was a half-decade ago when few homes had broadband access. Today, many companies market high-speed internet access packages, complete with all the trimmings. While Broadband webcasts are clearly on the rise, they have yet to become a significantly viewed media, but who knows what the future holds for the internet? No doubt the person who can answer that correctly will soon be a rich man.

With the launch, MAC has maintained its lead for our potential cable network. The two other contenders, the Martial Arts Action Network™ based out of Boca Raton, Florida and Black Belt TV from San Dimas, CA barely have websites. MartialArtsTelevision, one of the earliest, serious attempts from a Los Angeles-based company, no longer has its website. The remaining sites are embarrassingly mediocre in comparison to what CMX now offers: six channels of programming - Entertainment, Health and Fitness, CMX Sports, CMX Kids, Game On and CMX Business ? all fronted by two beautiful spokesmodels, Simone and Nia. CMX has also laid the foundation for an online radio network.

But these are just teasers for that ultimate prize we?re all hoping for, that martial arts cable network. MAC is scheduled to launch nationally during the first quarter of 2006. That's a promise we?re all watching. "The study and practice of martial arts teaches personal development, fitness, discipline, strength, beauty and confidence, while providing a whole lot of fun," preaches founder Anthony Cort confidently. "That is what CMX and MAC strives to bring fans of all ages 24-hrs a day. CMX is free and filled with information suitable for the whole family. The content we have online now is just the beginning for CMX. We will continue to roll out fresh and exciting subject matter over the next few months."

Stay tuned in and turned on for more. When we can swap our mouses for remotes, martial arts will have reached a new stage of evolution.

Click here for Feature Articles from this issue and others published in 2006 .

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