Injuries and karate

I've been thinking alot about a friend of mine that is hampered in his efforts to train by injuries.

Can one train in karate when injured? Is it a smart thing to do?

The very first moment that I walked into the dojo, I started with a previously damaged right hip. It didn't bother me until I attempted my first roundhouse kick. I lifted my right leg, and pain shot through me. Just lifting my leg to the side was enough, I didn't even kick out yet. I had to take it slow, and easy. I used the wall for balance, and guiding my leg with my hand I gently lifted it into position as far as possible (until pain started), held it, and brought it back down to relax. Without being consciously aware, I was doing physical therapy on myself.

With time, persistence, and effort, I have been able to increase the flexibility of my hips/legs. I can perform a roundhouse kick without pain, at about chest height. I feel that this was of great benefit to me. Instead of my flexiblity lessening as I progressed in age, I've increased, and developed myself.

On the other hand... Lately, I've injured my left shoulder. Don't ask me how. I believe that I had done a technique improperly with full power, and somehow pulled one of the muscles connected to my bicep muscle. Although I've been gentle on my left arm for the past month and a half, it doesn't seem to be improving. The injury that I sustained on my right wrist two years ago ( a sprained wrist) still rears up and complains as I train. I've also injured my right middle knuckle on a punching bag, and there are times when my knuckle will swell, and make crackling noises.

So... I've gained in some areas, and lost in others. I believe that I'm not alone. As more and more people train in karate into their mature years, they have to balance the benefits of training, with the fact that injuries can, and may happen as we train.

How do we know if we can keep training with an injury?

For those moments when we fall, or get smacked hard by our opponent, and we feel that nasty feeling that something went "OUCH" more than it should have, I present this quote:

"Robert Nirschl, M.D., assistant professor of orthopedics at Georgetown
University, in Washington, D.C., offers this advice: "Look for signs of
inflammation such as swelling, redness, tenderness, fever--generalized or
local--or pain that persists with or without continued activity." Any of
these signs--or others, such as decreased mobility or weight-bearing ability
of the affected limb, or a "popping" or "snapping" sound--indicates the need
for immediate treatment."

Should you take aspirin, or other pain relievers when training with an injury?

"Mirkin went even further in cautioning injured athletes about using pain
relievers at all. "They stop the pain," he explained, "but the
prostaglandins that cause the pain are part of the healing process. There
have been studies indicating that blocking prostaglandins may inhibit
healing. . . . You're better off taking nothing." He recommends rest and
keeping in shape during recovery with a sport that stresses uninjured parts
of the body."

Should you use one of those creams like Tiger Balm?

"Experts are even less enthusiastic about topical treatments such as creams,
ointments and liniments in treating injured muscles. FDA categorizes these
treatments as "topical counterirritants": "externally applied substances
that cause irritation or mild inflammation of the skin for the purpose of
relieving pain in muscle, joints, or viscera distal to the site of
application." In other words, the burning of your skin takes your mind off
your aching muscles. As Geismar puts it, "It's like pinching your big toe so
that you forget about your headache."

There is no scientific proof that topical treatments, even those that contain
aspirin, ease aching muscles, though the rubbing or massaging of the area can
itself be soothing. Since the medications often contain irritants, such as
menthol, the labels caution against bandaging the applied area tightly or for
too long. "

So what can you do if you injure yourself?

The R.I.C.E. method will help. R. is Rest, I. is Ice, C is Compression, and E is Elevate. Do not Ice the area longer than 10 or 15 minutes.

What is the goal in training with injuries?

I would suggest that we adapt to the need of the injured part with an attitude of humbleness at accepting the truth that we are not invincible. Perhaps one could tie a colored ribbon around the damaged limb to remind their kumite partners that they are continuing training to keep up their skills, but that care needs to be given to any techniques sent in that direction until that limb heals. Exercise is good for the limb. It promotes blood flow, and strengthens the muscles around the injured part. It would not be a good thing to stress the injured part to the point where damage is increased rather than decreased.

We need to be aware that healing takes longer for the older body. A young karate ka can submit his/her body to some strenous regime, and survive, even thrive. An older karate ka has to change the type of demand on his/her body. Doing one type of training on one day, and then giving that part of the body a rest, and focusing on another part of the body the next day. This would be similar to weight lifters that do Upper body training on Monday, and Lower body training on Tuesday.

I would encourage prevention of possible injury as the main focus of a karate ka. "Not only should your entire fitness program start out slowly and progress
gradually, but each day's regimen should include a warm-up that gently brings
your body up to a level where it can do vigorous exercise, and then a
cool-down to return to a normal activity level." Also, very importantly, make sure that you are well hydrated before you exercise. Your body needs water to move well. One should be sure to have had at least 2 glasses of water about 2 hours before training, and another glass of water 15 minutes before training.

Train hard..yes.. but train smart!

All quotes taken from:
http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/CONSUMER/CON00087.html

Using Japanese, Korean, or Chinese terminology

I've been thinking about how martial art students are asked to train, and learn all the difficult stances, kicks, strikes, and patterns, and in addition to this, (in some dojo) they are asked to know all of these things in both their native language, AND in Japanese (Korean, Chinese, etc. depending on their art). Of course, I had to ask myself if I thought that it was a worthwhile effort to learn everything in Japanese. I like to be in agreement with what I've been asked to do. There are alot of reasons why people have learned the Eastern terminology. One reason is that it is good to be familiar with the words in case you wish to compete or train internationally. I can see the value in that.. even if each country will have a different accent to the term Tsuki.. there is a chance that there would be interactive communication when placed together. Personally, I do not ever assume that I will be at such a high level that I'd be interacting internationally with other karate-ka... other than on the internet. Another reason is that it continues the tradition from the country that originated the martial art. (similar to how latin, and Greek terms are used in music, or French is used in Ballet) I like this idea, but it doesn't motivate me to put forth the effort to learn all the complex terms. For me, learning Japanese is a way to train my mind. I have to find a way to learn, and remember those words, what they represent, and when/how to use them. As a mom, I rarely get academic stimulation. It has been shown that one has to use their memory, and mind to keep it young and active. "As we learn new skills and concepts, the brain sparks development of synaptic connections--the electrical /chemical circuits that link neurons, the brain cells. Each cell in the brain can potentially be connected to thousands of others. The more connections, the more dense the brain, and the greater the intellectual capacity. For most of us, the brain is thoroughly stimulated well into our 50s thanks to jobs, continuing education, relationships, child raising and so forth. But people who become less mentally active as they grow older often don't receive--or seek-the stimulation needed to continue forming synapses. Karlene Ball, a psychology professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, worked as a lead researcher in a major federally funded study of people aged 64-96. The study proved beyond a doubt that the cognitive functions of the elderly can be enhanced through demanding activities that forced them to reason and react quickly. Better news still: A follow-up 5 years later showed thai participants retained their cognitive abilities--even though they hadn't performed any practice exercises." http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0FKA/is_1_66/ai_111572861 Training in Karate is the elixer of youth for the mind of a person, we are constantly challenged to learn, react, and learn more! Adding the study, and memorizing of kata, history of the art, and it's founder, and learning Japanese/Korean/Chinese terms enhances the mental training offered to us to help us keep sharp, and focused.

Kung Fu.. the original series

I was able to borrow a 6 DVD set of all the original episodes of "Kung Fu" the t.v. series starring David Carradine as Caine.

This was the first time that I've ever seen the show. Sure, I knew about the famous "snatch the pebble from my hand, Grasshopper" quote, and a couple of other little scenes just from watching other entertainment. I was astounded by the quality of the show. I feel that this is a creation that will transcend into the future. The magic of the combination of wonderful cinematography, poignant acting, great directing, awesome scripts, and storylines, amazing sets.. oh gosh.. I was entranced.

I found that I enjoyed each part of the series. I LOVED the flashbacks, I found myself looking forwards to them. I could see a thread of a positive moral lesson contained in each episode. One was able to see the worst in people, and at the same time you could see the BEST of people, and in the center of it all, solid, and calm as a pillar in a swirling ocean was Caine.

The deeper inner thoughts of a martial artist striving to follow the "way", "Do", or "Tao" were poetically expressed in simple words that would be difficult to understand if you haven't trained in the arts. My children turned to me more than once saying "What did his Sensei say? That made no sense..." I would just smile, and say "Oh.. it's just martial arts stuff.. You have to think about it."

What I found MOST interesting is how little "martial arts" there actually was in the show itself. The martial arts part was not the main draw of this show. It was there.. sure... but there were many times when it only made up less than 5 percent of the show. I found that I ended up that I didn't really care how well performed, or accurate the fight scenes were, I was so involved in the storyline... However, I have to admit that more than once, my heart surged with the action, and I admired the ability of the artists performing. I really enjoyed the fact that they put some of the more complex movements into slow motion. I would name the techniques as they happened "AH! A backfist to the head, followed by an elbow strike to the middle.. oh wow.. look he swirled him around, and did something that I haven't seen before.."

I saw the quality of the show improved with each successive episode, and when I watched the last show on the set, I found myself longing to see more. My found that the director that appealed the most to me was Robert Butler. There was a special feel to his work that rang within me.

My favorite episode from the first season was "Chains" . Robert Butler directed it, and it aired in March 1973. "Imprisoned in an army outpost, Caine escapes - chained to his hulking, mountain-man cellmate.... and pursued by a relentless sergeant determined to collect the $10,000 reward offered for Caine's capture." I found myself reacting to each moment of the show from the very beginning when I first meet the mountain-man, all the way to the end of the show.

I am grateful for the gift of this show's existence. It is no wonder that it has inspired so many martial artists of today to start walking the path.

How long does it take to get a black belt?

"How long would it take me to get a black belt (or it's equivalent)?

As long as it takes, no longer and rarely sooner."

from http://www.shaolin.com/shaolin_faq.aspx#anchor176742

Food for thought.

The first question that I hear from a person considering entering the path of martial arts is "How long before black belt?" I believe that this is the prevailing attitude, but it goes totally against the real goal of training in the arts. If the color of black is what is desired then the easiest method of obtaining that is to go to the local Martial arts store, and pick one up for less than $10. However, I believe that what the person is really hoping for is to have the skills of a black belt, and that will only come through personal effort, dedication, and training. It is really up to the person as to how long it takes. Although.. the body can only strengthen, and learn at a certain rate. Today, I can do 2 push ups, tomorrow perhaps 3.. with alot of consistence I can get up to 10 push ups in about a week. It would be rather impossible to suddenly be able to do 100 push ups after only a day of training... unless you really, really cheat.

Is it worth it though? To lower the amount of expectation so that you can get that black belt around your waist sooner? Not in my eyes. The belt does not make the artist.. it is the artist that brings worth to the belt.

I'm in Combat magazine.

To my joy, I have been included in the panel of 6 students that have been interviewed by Sensei Stuart Anslow of Great Britain. My answers have been published in the "Combat Panel" section of Combat magazine.


You can download this section at:

http://www.raynerslanetkd.com/downloadables/zips/Combat_Panel_Feb06.zip

I guess I just like kicking alot

When we arrived to our dojo this week, we found out that Sensei had car troubles, and wasn't coming to class. Our lead belt was going to take over.

As we were warming up, Sempai asked us " Is there anything in particular that you would like to work on in this class? Anything that you'd like to develop? Is there a kata you'd like to work on? or a technique?"

We waited in silence for a few seconds as we stretched.. then I put up my hand.

I suggested "I'd like to work on my kicks, Sempai."

The students around me did a sudden intact of breath, and I saw wide eyes all around me.

"Ah" said Sempai teasingly "That's a good idea.. 5,000 kicks would make the class go by quickly.."

I blinked in confusion " I just find that it's more difficult to do a good kick because I have to balance on one leg when I do the technique.. but when I punch
I have both feet on the ground."

"Aha!" jumped Sempai on my answer "You want to do balance exercises. I can provide that. 5,000 kicks balancing on one leg.. that sounds wonderful. Any more suggestions Mireille? This is shaping up to be a great class."

All of the black, and brown belts started laughing.

My husband chuckled, and said to me in one of those LOUD whispers "Honey.. I think that I'd quit talking now.."

This brought even more laughter from the class. Since it was all in good fun, I didn't mind.. but I did wonder what class was going to be like now that I had opened my big mouth.

So class happened.. but it wasn't as bad as all that.

Sure.. we worked on our roundhouse kick, and front kick, but it wasn't that awful. Sempai just helped us work on fixing those little details that smooth out the kick, and helps you maintain your support foot.

Sempai noticed a definate difference in our kicks by the end of class. Many of us had become aware of what we were doing with our support foot, and using it more effectively.

Sempai called us into kata formation, and then said "Since a certain new Shodan black belt wants to work on her kicks, I decided that the class will do a
kick with each move of the kata."

All of the students of the dojo teasingly grumbled about how they were going to repay me for my suggestion after class. I put my hand up and asked Sempai if I could be dismissed from class a good 5 minutes before everyone else so that I can have a head start of running away from them... or could he please shoot me now.

"Shooting is too quick a punishment" called out one of the brown belts "We need something more long lasting."

I just turned and gave him a pretend "frightened" look which made everyone chuckle.

We did our kata.. and I found it FUN. Adding a kick to each move was challenging mentally, and physically. I had to adjust my weight with each move. It changed
the feel of the kata, and the rhythm. It seemed that the other students had fun too. At least their faces were smiling at the end of class.

One of the more experienced black belts came up to me and said "Well.. I never thought that I'd ever see it happen.. that a student would request to do work on
their kicks during class! In the 15 years that I've been training, I've never seen it happen before.. until now.. until you. You are something else!"

All that I could do is blush.

I think that my husband is going to invest into some duct tape for his loud mouthed wife.

I'm far from the top...

One of my favorite things to do when I have a few moments of freedom from my responsibilities as a mother, and martial artist is to surf the net, and learn about various things (mainly karate based information)

I stumbled across this biography of Sensei Gichin Funakoshi, and found an interesting challenge in it.

"Gichin Funakoshi was a humble man. He preached and practiced an essential humility. He did not preach the humility of virtue, but a basic humility of a man who is rooted in the true perspective of things, full of life and awareness. He lived at peace with himself and with his fellow men.

Whenever the name of Gichin Funakoshi is mentioned, it brings to mind the parable of "A Man of Tao ( Do ) and a Little Man". As it is told, a student once asked, "What is the difference between a man of Tao and a little man?" The sensei replies, "It is simple. When the little man receives his first dan (degree or rank), he can hardly wait to run home and shout at the top of his voice to tell everyone that he has obtained his first dan. Upon receiving his second dan, he will climb to the rooftops and shout to the people. Upon receiving his third dan, he will jump in his automobile and parade through town blowing the horn, telling one and all about his third dan".

The sensei continues, "When the man of Tao receives his first dan, he will bow his head in gratitude. Upon receiving his second dan, he will bow his head and his shoulders. Upon receiving his third dan, he will bow at the waist and quietly walk alongside the wall so that people will not see him or notice him".

Funakoshi was a man of Tao. He placed no emphasis whatsoever on competitions, record breaking or championships. He placed emphasis on individual self-perfection. He believed in the common decency and respect that one human being owes another. He was the master of masters. "

http://www.shotokai.com/ingles/bios/funakos2.html

Oh gosh.. what was the first thing that I did when I achieved Shodan? I contacted as many of my friends, and family as soon as I could to share my joy. I didn't just bow my head in gratitude. I remember laying there on my bed unable to sleep with a big smile on my face thinking "Unbelievable! I'm a Black belt." In my defense, I didn't contact others to brag, or boast, but more to allow them to join me in a deep important moment of my life.

Hopefully, by the time I achieve Nidan, I will accept that rank change with just a bow, and a willingness to accept anonimity because I am MORE than my belt rank.

Karate goals for 2006

Each year I make karate commitments. These aren't "resolutions", as in the normal goals that many people do (watch their weight, stop smoking, and such), they are more like physical karate goals for the year. I started training in karate in February of 2002. I had no goals then. I was introduced to the world of martial arts. In 2003, my goal was very simple. I just wanted to continue training, and not give into that feeling of staying home instead of going to the dojo. I achieved that goal, and made sure that I didn't miss any classes that year. In 2004, my goals were: Kihon: I wanted to work on that "twist" at the end of my techniques. Sometimes when I'm in a hurry, it disappears. I'd like it to become a natural movement. I also want to work on my balance. Kata: I'd like to learn the Tekki (Naihanchi) kata. I've read on the internet that these kata are being overlooked because they aren't early on the testing list. Kumite: I'd like to focus on what my hips are doing during kumite, and less on my arms/ hands. I'd like to develop my hip rotation more. Result: I had to slow down my basics for awhile to allow my muscles to learn to "twist" at the end of my techniques, but it didn't take too long for that twist to become natural. In fact, I can now choose IF I want to twist, and how far I want to twist. My balance has improved a hundred fold. It has been noticed that it is getting harder for my opponent to find me off-balanced now. I did not learn the Tekki (Naihanchi) kata. My kumite goal didn't work with my Kihon goal. Since I was trying to focus on the twist in my hands, I had to let go of focusing on my hips for the majority of the year. I found out that hip rotation is best worked on during basics rather than in sparring. The goals for 2005: Kihon: To apply more power when performing a technique during the basics part of class. Kata: To work on my turns so that they are quicker, and more controlled. Kumite: To flow more when I attack, and to do more than 3 techniques one after the other in a natural way. I was able to increase my power by adding upper body weight training into my practice at home. I'm still developing the turns so that they are fast, balanced, and controlled. I've been able to flow more in kumite, but that affected my targeting some. So now that the year 2006 is coming. This does not mean that all the other goals are unimportant, but that I will adjust my focus into other aspects of my training. I think that I want to work on my mental, and spiritual strength this year. Kihon: I want to find that central space within me as I do my basics. Keeping my mind centered on my tanden, and attacking with my whole body, not just my arms, and legs. Kata: I want to focus on keeping Zanchin throughout the kata in spite of all the interruptions, and distractions. Kumite: I want to keep a calm interior that is alert, and willing to do what is necessary to react to what is coming in a flexible way, not being locked into this or that combination. Hopefully this year's goals all will support each other.

Starting my new path as Black

It's been a few weeks now since I achieved the rank of Shodan. I'm still trying to get my head around the idea. Whenever Sensei says something like "The black belts will spread out in the dojo.." I still find myself standing there hesitating until I remember that I am also a black belt.

I don't feel any different: the same issues that I was working on before my test are still being worked on now...

I just attended my first high level seminar that was filled wall to wall with black belts. We did two days of kumite training. To my joy, I was able to keep up with the majority of the complicated maneuvers that we were doing. O.K. sometimes I wasn't graceful, or competent with it, but I knew deep down that it was experience that would remedy this. I walked away from that seminar feeling rather happy with myself.

I've become more aware of the little things that I want to improve in my performance... such as my balance, direction of power, etc. I'm glad that I have the rest of my life to work on this.

Officially received the rank of Shodan

I passed! I received my black belt last night.

What a joy to place that new stiff obi around my waist. The ends of it stuck out sideways on my waist like one of those old days bad guy moustaches.

I thought quite seriously about what my first act will be when I attend my next class as a Shodan, because it will set the tone for the rest of my experience.

I decided that I would go get the broom, and sweep the floor as my first act as a black belt.

First of all, it reminds me that I need to remember my roots, and that I am not better or worse than anyone else. (Seek perfection of Character.)

Second, it reminds me that it is only through constant diligence on the simple basic things that I will excel at the higher more difficult things. (Be Faithful.)

Third, it reminds me to be careful to clean the whole floor and not just pieces of it. (Endeavor to excel.)

Fourth, I am reminded that Sensei Gichin Funakoshi worked as a janitor in a school, but was the Sensei of royalty, so therefore I should not judge others, but to treat everyone with the same respect. (Respect others)

Fifth, although a broom can be used as a weapon, it's main function is to bring cleaning, and health to the environment. I wish to focus on the fact that the skills that I have developed through my training is to be used in a positive way. (Refrain from violent behaviour.)

My Shodan test

My Shodan test
The day is done, the excitement is settled, and now I can sit
down and write about the seminar/ testing.
Yes, I’m tired.
I walked into the gym in the morning, and within a few
stances I noticed that my legs were not doing well. My thighs
were cramping up.  I accepted that fact, and decided to warm
up with stretching rather than kata.
I started greeting people who came into the gym to help them
feel welcomed, and comfortable.  I remembered how
frightened I was going to my first seminar, and so I thought it
would be nice to help them feel “at home”.  Also, I thought
that introducing myself before the seminar to these people
could help them be less frightened of my skin condition if we
ever had to spar together.
The morning class started with basics.  We went through the
various techniques, and stances.  It was quite interesting to
learn how much more I need to work on my side thrust kick. I
enjoyed it alot!
The Master was very kind.  He looked at me with a very
satisfied, and happy look more than once.  There was a
moment when he came up behind me when I was moving
forwards in stance, and suddenly grabbed my hips to place
them lower, and more forwards.  Since I wasn’t expecting the  
movement, I burst out with a squeal at the surprise, and then
with a giggle.  All the Sensei(s) chuckled at my innocent  
reaction.
My husband was my partner through the whole morning for
every exercise.  At one point, Sensei asked the groups to
stagger the lines by having each second group of two move
forwards.  I was watching the end of the line to see whether
we had to move or not.  When I realized that “yes” we had to
move.  I said “Osu”.. and quickly sent my hands forwards, and
pushed my husband on the chest lightly.  The sudden
movement shocked him and he sent out a squeal of surprise
too.  All the Sensei, and the rest of the students started
laughing. My family seems to be the noisest karate students!
So the morning class went by so fast, it was already time for
lunch, and I was saddened by the fact that the day was half
over already.  Most of the people left the gym to go eat out,
but I chose to stay, sit on the bleachers, and rest my
cramping thighs. I spent a good hour massaging them.
My husband went out for lunch, and bought me a vegetarian
submarine sandwich.  The sweetheart!
I had so many people asking me if I felt nervous about my
upcoming test.  I had to answer that “No, I’m not worried at
all,  I feel ready. I just hope that my legs hold up.”
I  had time during the lunch break to help a green belt learn
that he has to punch with the two knuckles of his fist rather
than the bent wrist that he had be using.  I felt even better
about that! I just helped him understand about the danger of
injury if he kept doing what he was doing. Awesome.
Class started.  We did kata... My favorite!  
The Kata class ended.. and we had a few minutes to gather
ourselves before testing.  I saw my kyokushin Sensei
standing up in the bleachers.  I ran over to where he was
leaning over the rail smiling at me.  I jumped up and down in
happiness and greeted him.  I couldn’t really talk to him
though at that point. It was time to test.
We 4 Shodan testing students got called up.  I just couldn’t
understand what Sensei  was saying...  I heard Sanbon
Tsuki.. O.K... I know what that is!  So
I did it.. but I forgot to listen for how many repetitions I had to
do.  I even forgot to kiai on the last punch.  I went one
technique too far.  My Sensei said to me “
switch legs.. you only need to do 3 of them.”  “Osu!” I
answered switching legs.. but then my arm was wrong.  
Sensei only told me to switch legs.. not arms.. Oh gosh I got
more flustered.  So I just went into yoi for a second, looked at
the person next to me, and then went into the same position
as them.  “Come on! Focus!  Why did you train so hard to let
nerves take it away from you? You made a mistake.. now get
past that..” I said to myself.  From that moment on, I was all
there.  My basics went very smoothly after that.  It was TOO
easy. I calmed down, and all just flowed!
It was the Brown belt’s turn for kata.  We went up in teams of
two.  We 2 ladies were together.  Sensei told us to do
Heian Yondan.  I went through that kata with joy.. but my
thighs were feeling the stress.  I ignored them.. told them that
they have no choice but to keep going because I’m testing
and they can hurt later.  My kata came out at my best.  Sensei
just sent us to sit down.
Then we went around the list of testing students doing their
kata, and it was our turn again. This time we had
to do Bassai Dai.  At one point near the beginning, my left
thigh muscle ( My left leg was in the front on front stance)
gave out on me, and I felt myself slipping.   Quickly, I
demanded performance.. caught myself with that left foot,
and continued on.  The kiai points felt like heaven because I
would open my mouth to kiai, and almost gulp in air to
sustain me until the next kiai point.  
I handled the sparring part with more finesse than I thought I
would.  I was quite happy with my effort.
Well, it is on that note that the testing ended.
I made mistakes.. yes.. but I got past them... and kept going.
I don't know what the results are. They weren't announced
there at the test.  As soon as I know I will tell you.

Countdown! 1!!!!!!!!

I kept busy today. I went to my kid's parent teacher interviews at their elementary school all morning. Then I went grocery shopping in the afternoon to stock up for the weekend. I had to bring all the housework up to a done level. The day went by peacefully, quickly, and without any moments of "Oh my gosh! I'm one day away from my belt test." I didn't even stop to write about the upcoming event in my blog until now. I'm ready now to think about karate.

What a challenge cross training is! I really only joined the Kyokushin karate dojo for the needed exercise. I couldn't afford to join a second Shotokan dojo, or to join a health spa. The Kyokushin classes were free of charge, and they have a big focus on body conditioning.

I expected to remain a white belt in that dojo because of the fact that I was training in Shotokan, and that training was louder in my body than any of the kyokushin that I was doing. What do I mean? Well.. although a rising head block is a rising head block there is a different way of applying it when one compares Shotokan to Kyokushin.

So then started my learning process as to how each and every movement, and stance is used differently in Kyokushin. I could lean on my Shotokan background, and experience a little to get the main idea, but then I had to fine tune the way that I did my techniques. I'd try to imitate what my Kyokushin Sensei wanted, but since I was almost hard wired for a certain straight linear movement, my arms almost refused to go in a circular manner.

I struggled in kyokushin class to get the direct stepping happening in my legs rather than the C stepping which now seemed so natural to me. Months and months of slow training to get my leg to go direct. I'd run up to my Kyokushin Sensei, demonstrate a few steps and say "Do I have it yet?" He'd smile and shake his head to the negative. Nope, my foot always came into the other as I moved forwards. I watched myself in the mirror.. you could even see the hesitant fight in my legs each time that I moved. There seemed to be a war of FORWARDS! IN! FORWARDS! IN! happening with each step.

Kata! Oh gosh kata! Pinan Sono Ichi is the same embusen as Heian Shodan, but you have to move differently. It has a different feel to it, a different timing, really it has a different "music". It's like listening to the song "Three blind mice" played in Jazz style rather than classical style. For the first 6 months I would mish mash the styles. I'd start off in Shotokan, but at the end of the kata, I would turn into a most wonderful Kyokushin backstance. I'd stand there thinking "This is right, but it's not "right".. how come it feels wrong? It's a good stance! OH oh! I'm doing Shotokan!" So then my body would click into a Shotokan backstance like one of those transformer robots.. feet, leg, hip, torso, arms... click, click, click. AH! That's better.

I was totally lost when it came to Kyokushin sparring. The constant movement.. the attitude.. the idea of unbalancing your opponent.. Oh! and you have to get so close to the person you are fighting sometimes! Distance was always difficult for me to figure out when I was only doing 1 type of art... but to do two arts that demand different ways.. OUCH!

I perservered. I kept trying. I found out that now I have to learn double the amount of kata since I'm doing two arts.

In Shotokan I learned the Heian (5), Tekki (2), Bassai (2), Kanku (2), Empi, Jion, Chinte, Jutte, Hangestu, Gankaku, and Wan kan.

In Kyokushin I learned Kihon (3), Shiho Tsuki (3), Taikyoku (3), Sakugi Taikyoku(3), Pinan (2), Yangstu, Sanchin, and a Bo kata.

37 Kata so far.. and I'm not done. 37 Kata in only 3 years of training! *Insert stunned swear word of choice here*

Well... I was warned before I started learning Kyokushin that it is a FAR harder path in martial arts to try to travel in two styles at the same time. I didn't want to lose the Shotokan art that I have come to know, and love. I didn't want to lose the beauty of the Kyokushin art that I was experiencing. Also there were moments when Shotokan revealed to me the hidden answers to what was happening in Kyokushin, and times when Kyokushin revealed to me the practical applications of my Shotokan.

So! I keep cross training. I'm going for Shodan in Shotokan, but I hold a 7th Kyu level in Kyokushin. That's who I am.. and I just accept the positives, and negatives of the whole thing.

Countdown!! 2.....

I have been receiving so much support from people concerning my upcoming black belt test. People that I didn't think would be interested are inquiring as to how I'm coping with the anxiety of the upcoming test. Wow.. Not too many people really worried about me when I was going for the lower kyu ranks.. ha ha ha. I was far less ready for those tests.. especially my white belt test. It's nice to get their emails of encouragement, and to have people stop me to wish me the best. Wow.. the outpouring of concern is wonderful. I feel like a Queen walking amoung the population right now. One of the parents of my dojo found out that I was testing for black, and the look in her eyes just shifted to one of deep awe. Oh gosh.. awe? Sometimes I think that it's just a daydream, really, and that I'll wake up in a couple of days and realize that truth.

Thinking back to those first days of training when I saw brown belt as an impossibility for me to achieve. I remember watching the brown belts go up front of class, and do so many things that I just couldn't see myself accomplishing within my lifetime: Kumite, the more difficult kata like Kanku Dai, and combinations... I was having troubles keeping my front knee bent, and holding stance for longer than 2 seconds. Oooo.. the burning in my thigh muscles just demanded that I pull out of stance, the pain in my ankles, in my knees, in my hips.. they all screamed for me to get out of stance.

I would go home, and start practicing just holding front stance. My husband came into the room, and watch me with a smile as I would go down into stance for about 3 breaths, and then stand right back up breathing hard to cope with the pain. "What's your problem?" he asked me with a grin "You're just standing up.. gee.. what's so hard about that?"

'O.K..." I said, "It's harder than it looks.. here.. you get into front stance, and see how long you last." I placed him in proper stance.. he didn't last any longer than me. His eyes widened in acknowledgement, and realization of just how difficult standing up can become.

As I progressed in the art I learned that Back stance hurts alot more than front stance.. HA HA HA HA Then I learned about the pain that can be achieved by going into Side stance. Phenomenal!

But my kata became stronger, and more stable.. my legs started to strengthen. Now I would turn on one of my favorite CD's, and hold stance through the song. Holding Front stance for 3 minutes, and 23 seconds, Holding Back stance for 2 minutes, and 40 seconds.. The whole time I'd sing along with the song, and focus on my breathing, even harmonizing.. anything to keep my mind off of the pain in my legs.

I build up in ability. I decided that I was ready for the real challenge. I washed the dishes holding side stance the whole time that I stood in front of the sink. Each sink load of dishes took about 5 minutes to wash. I would do a sink load once every hour holding stance each time. In a family the size of ours.. that's alot of dishes!

Then I started doing my ironing standing on one leg to improve my balance.

All of this personal training had an effect.. I was able to hold stance with confidence... but then the cramping started.

By the time I achieved my green belt, my muscles would cramp during class. I looked for reasons, explanations, interventions. My legs, and feet would cease in awful cramps as I tried to do kata... or hold stance. I remember how severe the cramps would be. In fact, my left leg cramped up really tight, and lost all power to hold my weight as I was doing Heian Yondan for my belt test in front of the judging table. I had to stop for a second, and place down my right leg to keep me standing, wait for the cramp to let go, and then continue my kata. I still passed that test in spite of this major mistake.

It wasn't until this September that I realized what it was that I was doing to encourage cramping in my muscles. I would often have a treat of Pepsi, and taco chips. It was my favorite bad habit. During the summer of this year.. I had decided to stop drinking, or eating anything with caffeine in it because of the reading that I had done about the negative effects that caffeine has on your body system. To my joy, I noticed that my muscle cramps had disappeared over the summer. I didn't realize the link to caffeine at that point though. However, when September rolled around, and the stress of my upcoming black belt test loomed over me, I fell back into my comfort food... pepsi, and taco chips. Within a month the cramps came back. AH! After some indepth study I learned that one of the effects of caffeine on your body is to strengthen muscle contractions. That is why the Olympic committee lists caffeine up there with steriods as a drug that isn't allowed in competition.

Now, I have been steering away from caffeine and my cramping has dissipated. I'm back to suffering from stance "normally".. ha ha ha

Countdown! 3........

The final moments before I face that BIG moment. My thoughts turn back to what I once was before I became infected with the positive effects of living Karate Do. I weighed nearly 200 lbs. I remember getting to the top of one flight of stairs and having to hold the wall because I felt dizzy, and weak. My skin condition covered over 80% of my body making it difficult to do anything. I remember finding blood spots on my pajamas from my hands independently scratching at the itch during the night while I slept. My face was covered which caused many people to react in abhorance when I approached them.

I remember the dread I felt at the thought of doing anything physical. Even the idea of walking to the corner store to get some milk made me think twice, or even three times. My 8 year old daughter wanted to take karate lessons.. oh man.. that meant walking a good 20 minutes each way. I remember moaning about that to my husband... Ha ha ha.. a 20 minute leisurely walk and I would complain about that! HA HA HA Little did I know then that, in less than 3 years, I'd be training hard for more than 2 hours straight with black and brown belts and exhilarating in it.

The first months of training were especially hard on me. I remember coming to a dead stand still while exercising during class. I heard Sensei chuckle and said "I'm not the only star that you are seeing right now.. am I?" I couldn't help but think in astonishment "How does he know that I'm seeing a whole bunch of flashing lights surrounding me?" Oh that was not a smart thing! Just jumping into hard karate training from doing no exercise at all. Looking back in retrospect, it's a good thing that I didn't consult a doctor.. ha ha ha.. He/she would have taken one look at my physical condition, and said "Are you crazy????", and that would have been that.. I would never have been introduced to the world of martial arts.

All I wanted was to learn how to do kata.. I was willing to do all the other things to be able to learn kata. I remember asking Sensei if it was possible to learn karate without learning how to fight. WAH ha ha ha! Little mouse that I was.. all that my partner would have to do is look like they were going to move forwards with a punch, and I'd hide behind my hands, and cringe saying "EEKK!".

Oh did I abhor push ups! Sensei would go down the line asking for the Japanese terms of the various techniques and those who didn't know the term would have to go down and do 10 push ups. I had plenty of motivation to learn my terms, if that is what it took to avoid push ups. Sensei couldn't stump me.. He tried.. oh gosh he tried to find an obscure term that he had taught me that I might have forgotten.. but nope. I fought valiantly against having to do those push ups.

I remember one time that Sensei asked a higher belt for a term.. and the person said in a joking manner "Why don't you ask her? " So Sensei turned to me with a smile and did the movement again. I bowed my head in embarrassment and said "Sensei, I am not familiar with that movement," ( I saw a look of triumph appear on Sensei's face) "but I do know one that is similar from Heian Yondan," I continued, " and that one is called Kaki waki Uke." The look of stunned surprise on the faces of all the other students was precious when Sensei burst out laughing and said "Yes.. it's the same."

I remember my first roundhouse kicks. I looked like I was attempting to imitate a Dutch windmill with my arms, and legs. Nothing worked together, and I'd end up collapse on the ground giggling into my knees with the joy of knowing that one day I was going to DO this kick... but right now, I look like "Goofy does karate".

Oh I'd get lost with every new thing that was introduced..It's like everything was reset back to the start... mentally, and physically. Sensei never stopped supporting, and challenging me to get beyond where I was at.. and I didn't stop giving myself permission to keep trying.

A difficult time arose for me. My father was ill, and dying. I found that training in karate helped me with the stress. I asked Sensei if I could attend both of his dojo so that I could burn off the extra emotions, and energy within me. He allowed me that priviledge, and I started double training. Innercity dojo, and then again at 17th Wing dojo.

My weight went down 30 pounds, my health went up.. Sure, I became sore, and my family would get no end of entertainment listening to my moans and groans from even little things like lifting my cup of tea to my lips.

When Innercity dojo closed down, I went into a deep concern for the fact that I didn't want to lose all of the physical conditioning that I worked so hard to gain. I requested Sensei's permission to attend a free kyokushin karate class that was offered every Friday, and received it.

I entered the kyokushin dojo with apprehension knowing that it was a full contact karate, and what a timid little mouse I felt like inside of me. I spoke with the Sensei there explaining that my main goal was to keep up my physical condition through the extra exercise, but that I would attempt to train Kyokushin while in his dojo...if he would allow me to train there. Thus humbly starts the difficult path of cross training in two arts about 2 years ago.

This little woman who couldn't climb one set of stairs without suffering is now training in karate almost every day of the week, and twice on Saturdays. She does weight lifting at home, and puts in about 22 hours of training per week (if she can steal that time from other things)

Only 5 days away

I'm trying not to get all uptight, and nervous about the upcoming test. Only 5 days away. I'm standing at the sink washing dishes, and finally keeping my mind busy with other thoughts when my little daughter comes in and says "Mommy! Your black belt test is only 5 days away.. Wow!" That number strikes into my mind like an alarm... Sheesh.

Bedtime, and my thoughts go towards.. "I wonder what will happen on that day. I wonder if I'll be able to cope with the nervousness.. I have to take it as "just another class"..but it's not just another class.. It's a black belt test. Oh gosh.. me? me? Yes.. of course me! That's why I've been training so hard all this time. I've got what it takes, I just have to let myself do it.. that's all... it's only 5 days away."

Deep breaths.. calm down. No need to get all uptight like the weeks before Christmas when I was a child, and I couldn't sleep because of all the thoughts of the presents that I'd be getting.. and daydreaming of what I'd find under the tree. I'm an adult now.. I can get beyond the excitement.. I can get past the anticipation. Oh I wonder if I'll see my friends at my belt test.. I wonder what it will be like to train under the new Master. I wonder if my muscles will cramp up that day or not... maybe I should make sure that I eat plenty of bananas on Thursday, and Friday before to make sure that I have enough potassium, and magnesium in my system.... only 5 days away.

This week is going to go by so fast.. and the testing will be over and done with before I know it.. and I'll be back to normal everyday training again. So I guess I should enjoy these final days of being extra energetic.

I've been watching my every step to make sure that I do not injure myself before my test. I've been extra paranoid that I'll catch a cold/flu before my test. I've been keeping track of how many hours of sleep I get.. it's only 5 days away, you know.

Snow, and Pain

It snowed immensely for a few days.. Our city was drowned in snow. Schools closed down, buses became stuck on the streets blocking traffic. The weather became one of the first topics that you would talk about with people.

We arrived at our dojo to find the parking lot unaccessible with wind driven drifts of snow. Driving down the side streets we couldn't find a safe place to park our car without the concern that we wouldn't be able to pull out again after class. Finally we found a safe place which was a good 10 minutes walk away from the dojo.

Against the wind we walked in single file sloughing through knee-high snow with our backpacks perched up on our shoulders.

We asked ourselves if we were the only ones crazy enough to show up to train today, but no.. there were 8 other karate students as nuts as us.

Class started, and within 15 minutes of training, my psoriasis skin condition flared up in pain. It felt like I was covered with boiling oil from my ankles to my neck. It HURT!

Oh I know why I flared up: When you combine the fact that the winter air is very dry, with the extra stress of the past 2 weeks of struggling with my autistic son everyday to do his homework, disciplining my 3 younger children to try to get them to clean their room for the past 2 days, being awakened by one of my daughters all last night due to "nightmares" thereby getting less than 3 hours sleep, and the stress of the oncoming black belt test which has been developing incrementally heavilly upon me for the past month. I'm not surprised that my skin condition flared with intensity.

I was in such pain that my hands were involuntarilly shaking. I wanted to break down in tears, and beg Sensei to allow me to pull out of class. I thought again about that over and over as I trained, but I realized that there is a big chance that I may flare up during seminar and testing. I have to be able to perform even with the pain filling my arms, torso, and legs each time I move.

I would meditate each time that we stopped moving. I'd close my eyes, and focus on my breathing, and tell myself.. "It's just pain from my skin. It won't kill me.. I can breath through it. I can do this.. I just need to focus even more."

We were nearing the end of class, and I was asked to perform my Bassai Dai kata. I mentally told myself.. "Don't focus on the pain.. focus on the movement of the muscles with the techniques.. on your breathing.. not the pain.. the pain isn't important.." I did my kata, and finished with a strong kiai.

Oh I need to rest, calm down, and put some moisturizing cream on me to be able to handle next week's test without as much pain. I'm just glad that through the combination of training in karate, and changing my diet to a healthier food combining method I have already healed over 60% of my skin condition naturally. I remember a time when my skin would have broken open throughout a class like this, and bled all over my gi, and maybe my opponent's gi in sparring. I didn't have to suffer that embarrasment this time.

One of my favorite martial arts humour sites

www.fudebakudo.com

I haven't read their books.. but if it's as enjoyable as the website, I can't WAIT to get my hands on one of them.

Their website has a martial arts advisor, who will help you choose the right art for you.. the questions are quite humorous!

There is so much to look at on this website: Downloadable origami paper slippers, how to avoid exhaustion through time wasting techniques, a well thought out answer to the whole "does Ki exist?" debate. If you want a good smile, even get to the point of laughing out loud, I would really suggest visiting this site. It's one of my favorite ones on the net.

I feel ready

Let's see.. we are only 5 classes away from the BIG moment for me, and I feel ready.

I've trained extra since July of this year, building up my skills, working on my balance, focusing on my progress, and last night I felt that inner solidity that told me that I'm mentally, and physically up to the challenge. It's a nice feeling to know that you have done what you could to prepare for something and to recheck it all, and find it adequate.

Now it's time to pamper myself, relax, and allow time to bring me to where I need to be.. In fact, I'm happilly anticipating the moment now. Sure, I realize that there is so much more to learn in my path of training in karate, but I feel secure in the base that I have built in the past years that I will be able to add onto what I have, and continue growing in my art.

I still have that healthy nervousness of anticipation... which is good, because one doesn't want to be apathetic, and over confident about the whole event.

There is something magical about the Shodan test that just cannot be recaptured by any succeeding black belt Dan tests. It's similar to the first time that you walk into that Junior High school. For years you were the senior student of the elementary school with the responsibilities, and priviledges, and now you walk in amoung all of these tall teenagers, and you feel like you are back in kindergarten again.

Bring on the challenge, I'm ready to face what happens, and live with the results.

Karate memories: Falling asleep at my belt test

I was going for my green belt ( 7th kyu). We had a 3 day seminar happening with Testing on Saturday. Our dojo was running a little concession stand to help raise money to support the students. On Friday night, we had sold out of all the homemade baking that was provided.

I went home after training, near 9:30 pm, and started baking. Muffins, cakes, cookies, brownies.. the oven had continual things going in, or coming out of it. Time marched on too quickly, and it was already 4 am when I stood there looking over a table full of baking with satisfaction. Sure.. I realized that this was the night before my belt test, but as a mother of 7 children, I have had more than plenty of "white nights" wherein I didn't sleep all night, and I was still able to cope the next day. How could this be any different?

The next morning I happilly brought in my baking to help supply the table, and then went to the gym to warm up. I didn't feel at all tired, just the excitement of being able to participate in this event. I enjoyed the seminar class with full energy.

It came time for testing. I was pretty happy with how I was coping with my lack of sleep. I forgot that there is a long, quiet time when the students are being lined up in order of their name, and rank. We sat there silent, and not moving.. I fought the sleepy blanket of calmness that took over my mind, and body, but the voices of the various Sensei melded into a warm mutter, and my eyelids drooped, then my head drooped. One of my dojo friends was sitting next to me, she nudged my arm to wake me up with the shocked words "Are you falling asleep????? Now? Ten minutes before you test?" The looks of shock, and awe surrounded me. Almost like their faces were teleprompters, they broadcasted the message "How can she not be nervous at a time like this? How can she fall asleep?"

I still smile at the memory of this moment. I will make sure that I get a good night's sleep before my Shodan test, if I have to have my husband smack me with a 2 by 4 to get that result.

Important enough to repeat it often..

There are as many different kinds of students out there in the martial arts world as there are personalities. Each person is unique, and brings a different flavour into the dojo. I've been thinking about "who" I want to be as I train: What kind of attitude, and performance I hope to achieve at each class.I hope some day to achieve the following

a) To approach every opportunity to train with a positive attitude, seeing within the repetition of movements the seeds of personal growth.

b) To challenge myself to apply my fullest energy to each technique.. as if it was the last one I could defend myself with regardless to how exhausted my body becomes with the effort.

c) To be willing to push myself to the point wherein I have to pull to the side of the dojo during class because I have no more to give.. not reserving strength to be able to last.

d) Having the humility to accept my mistakes, and limitations, and the wisdom to see a chance to improve them.

e) Cherishing the gift I have in a Sensei who has chosen to help guide my path in the martial arts by doing my best during class, and practicing what he has taught me in between classes.

f) Being grateful for the fact that I am able to train in karate.... that I have the health, breath, interest, and energy to do so in the first place.

g) When asked to instruct others, I want to teach them with knowledge, and not with derision. I want to respect the fact that they are relying on me to guide them properly, and to do my utmost to help them improve without making them feel lesser.

h) I want to be a source of support, and encouragement to others in my dojo. Energizing the room by responding to commands sharply, and properly. Kiai'ing with full spirit at the appropriate times. Keeping a focused attitude towards the execution of my techniques regardless of the behaviour of some students around me.

i) I want to be an example of self-control, and respect. Looking towards simple outward signs of having such an attitude like wearing a clean, ironed gi, with a well-tied obi, or placing my coat and shoes in a neat way at the entrance.

j) I want to have the inner flexibility to allow myself to enjoy karate, and yet manage to keep a serious demeanor. I want to respond to the needs of the moment, to be able to smile, and laugh.. and also to be focused, and centered when needed.

k) I want to be an extra emotional support to those women who chose to train in martial arts. Without being sexist, I would like to help women understand the different demands being placed upon them, and how to cope with them, as I struggle to find answers for myself.

L) I want to be open, friendly, and welcoming to new faces of the dojo, always keeping in mind how terrified I was on my first days of training.

m) I want to continue training well into my mature age.. keeping karate-do as part of my life until my last breath. Accepting the changes that time places on my body as a challenge to learn to adapt, and use what I have in the most efficient way possible.

If I can think of anything else that I am hoping to develop.. I will add it later.