Literally.
We had 3 people testing in HKD this week: One for red belt, one for green belt & one for yellow belt. The good news is all of them passed.
The bad news is that one of them (testing for red belt) suffered a broken radial bone in his right arm that could not be set at a local doctor's office & had to wait until the next morning. He's a tough kid of 17 years & there's no doubt he'll be fine. This guy can hang with me in most situations & he's giving up at least 50lbs...so yeah, he can hold his own.
We have a final drill in every test that we call the "Circle of Death". This is very much a tongue-in-cheek thing & consists of the four most senior belts standing at the corners of the mats & attacking the defender in succession. There's no break in between attackers & the adrenaline gets pumping. Unfortunately, this is where the break happened.
Now, I've talked to the guy ("green") who did the breaking & let him know he didn't do anything wrong: HKD is a rough & tumble art (I've got a chipped tooth to prove it) that brings about injuries. There was no malicious intent & he simply went faster than expected when taking "red" down. "Green" does great at this art & needs to know that these things will rattle someone...to which I shared with him my story of being rattled once.
I was also an orange belt, over 5 years ago, and we were working on throws. The particular technique is called the "One-Step Throw" & can really send the attacker flying for distance. Now, when we do this sort of throw with someone of a low rank (below brown belt), it's customary to let them know what we're planning to do. It helps avoid accidents (in theory).
So, a young lady who was also an orange belt (all of 15, I think) was the "attacker" & I let her know we were going to do the one-step throw. Upon her acknowledging this, I repeated the name of the technique, did a couple of set-ups & then did a "ki-hap" to let her know I was ready to go. She did the same & I performed a breakaway from her grab, stepped deep & turned around to step for the throw.
She whipped forward & didn't tuck her head down for the rolling fall that was supposed to happen. Literally, time seemed to hold its breath as she bounced once on the mats (thankfully very cushioned) & lay there for a second - it seemed like much longer - crumpled in a heap.
My first thought was, "Oh my God! I just killed this poor girl because I did something wrong!". My instructor (who is still my instructor), came up to me after seeing what happened & noticed how upset I was. He simply & calmly asked if I told her what technique was going to happen. When I replied that, yes, she did know & we had done a couple set-ups, he replied plainly that she failed to roll properly & it wasn't my fault in any way.
The most important part, however, is that she was perfectly fine. Stunned a bit, but no worse for wear & completely understanding that she didn't roll properly. To be honest, I was just happy she was OK.
So, as I was telling "green", I know what it's like to be rattled to the core & feel like you've done a horrible thing. While knowing you didn't mean any harm may not help, we all assume the same risk coming into that class. "Red" knew that as well as anyone & there's no doubt in my mind he'll be just fine. "Green" is a spectacular student & I know he'll bounce back from this.
Showing posts with label HKD. Show all posts
Showing posts with label HKD. Show all posts
5/29/09
5/1/09
Benefits of Training
Last Tuesday, I was working in the basketball court area of a local rec center with a few of the other black belts on their forms. We started with the first 1st degree form & then I asked them what they wanted to do next.
"Koryo", the 1st degree form in World TKD Federation, was the universal response.
It's a fun form & the beginning has double side kicks (low & high) that can really show off the practitioner's abilities. Heck, I enjoy that part of the form more than any other section.
As it turns out, basketball courts have floors that are well-waxed, shiny & quite a bit on the slick side. So slick, in fact, that a certain black belt attempting the high part of that kick combo might discover that the ball of his foot is inadequate for keeping him firmly standing on terra firma. Yeah, that "certain" black belt was yours truly.
Now, if this was a stuntman competition, this guy had it won - hands down! My right leg kicked high; and the left leg, apparently saddened at being all alone, decided to join righty...in mid-air. The result was a horizontal, twisting position that had me facing the opposite direction of my intended kick - again, in mid-air.
There I was, headed for a personal crash of NASCAR proportions, when the years of HKD training kicked in. The arms came up, forearms in front of my face, head turned to the side & legs extended to prevent my stomach from belly flopping in a most painful way. BOOM! textbook front fall..albeit from an, um, elevated position.
The guys were pretty shocked - even more so when I stood right up & got right back into the mix.
"Koryo", the 1st degree form in World TKD Federation, was the universal response.
It's a fun form & the beginning has double side kicks (low & high) that can really show off the practitioner's abilities. Heck, I enjoy that part of the form more than any other section.
As it turns out, basketball courts have floors that are well-waxed, shiny & quite a bit on the slick side. So slick, in fact, that a certain black belt attempting the high part of that kick combo might discover that the ball of his foot is inadequate for keeping him firmly standing on terra firma. Yeah, that "certain" black belt was yours truly.
Now, if this was a stuntman competition, this guy had it won - hands down! My right leg kicked high; and the left leg, apparently saddened at being all alone, decided to join righty...in mid-air. The result was a horizontal, twisting position that had me facing the opposite direction of my intended kick - again, in mid-air.
There I was, headed for a personal crash of NASCAR proportions, when the years of HKD training kicked in. The arms came up, forearms in front of my face, head turned to the side & legs extended to prevent my stomach from belly flopping in a most painful way. BOOM! textbook front fall..albeit from an, um, elevated position.
The guys were pretty shocked - even more so when I stood right up & got right back into the mix.
2/17/09
And Then There Were 3
I'm going to have to get a bigger hat rack! The Asshats are just piling up!
A friend (Luis) in Colorado was out at a restaurant with his wife & two boys (2 & 6). The six-year old said he needed to use the bathroom & Luis told him to take the two-year old with him. The bathroom was in direct view of their table & he watched both boys go in.
A few moments later, a man in his 40s came up to the table - both of my friend's boys with him & the following conversation ensued:
Guy: Do you think it's very smart to let your kids RUN around the restaurant, bothering people?
Luis: Sorry, we are just leaving...
Guy: If they go by my table again, I am going to trip them! (seriously! two little kids!)
(Luis, agitated at this point, stands up & the guy gets in his face)
Luis: If you touch my kid, I will kick your ass! (trust me, he can back this up.)
Guy: No you won't.
Luis: Are you sure? Please, walk away.
At this point, it bears noting that Luis, a second degree in HKD, was accosted a few years back in Boston by two jerks. One ended up kissing a brick wall & the other was choked into submission...Luis can handle himself.
(Guy gets even closer to Luis)
Luis: WALK. AWAY. NOW!
The guy finally got some sense in his head & walked back to his table. Needless to say, the manager was over there by now & other folks were all too glad to tell how this jerk had threatened two children in front of their parents. The manager kicked the bozo & his girlfriend out without further incident.
Congratulations, asshat #3! You must be related to #2 with a twisted mind like that. Part of me wishes Luis had kicked your butt all over the restaurant but I'm glad my friend had the presence of mind to behave as an adult should instead of stooping to your head-up-the-butt level.
A friend (Luis) in Colorado was out at a restaurant with his wife & two boys (2 & 6). The six-year old said he needed to use the bathroom & Luis told him to take the two-year old with him. The bathroom was in direct view of their table & he watched both boys go in.
A few moments later, a man in his 40s came up to the table - both of my friend's boys with him & the following conversation ensued:
Guy: Do you think it's very smart to let your kids RUN around the restaurant, bothering people?
Luis: Sorry, we are just leaving...
Guy: If they go by my table again, I am going to trip them! (seriously! two little kids!)
(Luis, agitated at this point, stands up & the guy gets in his face)
Luis: If you touch my kid, I will kick your ass! (trust me, he can back this up.)
Guy: No you won't.
Luis: Are you sure? Please, walk away.
At this point, it bears noting that Luis, a second degree in HKD, was accosted a few years back in Boston by two jerks. One ended up kissing a brick wall & the other was choked into submission...Luis can handle himself.
(Guy gets even closer to Luis)
Luis: WALK. AWAY. NOW!
The guy finally got some sense in his head & walked back to his table. Needless to say, the manager was over there by now & other folks were all too glad to tell how this jerk had threatened two children in front of their parents. The manager kicked the bozo & his girlfriend out without further incident.
Congratulations, asshat #3! You must be related to #2 with a twisted mind like that. Part of me wishes Luis had kicked your butt all over the restaurant but I'm glad my friend had the presence of mind to behave as an adult should instead of stooping to your head-up-the-butt level.
2/15/09
Good & Bad
Good news/Bad news time...
The good: I've got a "theme song".
The bad? Well, I wasn't thinking it would involve so much polyester, disco lights & bell bottoms!
The good: I've got a "theme song".
The bad? Well, I wasn't thinking it would involve so much polyester, disco lights & bell bottoms!
2/3/09
The B*tch Is Back!
UGH! Just when you think you're rid of a nuisance...
We started a new term for students who sign up through the local community college. It's a no-credit, continuing-education, self-defense class for them. Initially, I was hopeful because of one of the names on the roster - a young lady who was the 1st self-defense student. She had athletic ability, confidence & a good attitude. I'm not sure if she showed but certainly she gets the most out of the class.
Unfortunately, every so often a margarita catches a fly. Also on the roster was the "don't need the commentary" lady. The one that reminds me of Dolores Umbridge of Harry Potter: OoTP fame. You know the type: she says the most insidious things in the most pleasant tone - as if to disguise her malevolence inside a sugary-sweet wrapper. Happily, I didn't have to try & teach her anything tonight...
What hurts me most is I consider myself a patient instructor. I can work with an easily distracted seven year-old & maintain composure without issue. I reason that my patience as a black belt is required to ensure the students are properly trained in self-defense. It's a point of pride for me to show the utmost courtesy in the capacity of a teacher.
In "Dolores'" case, all I want to do is tell her to clean the stuff out of her ears, listen & get a clue.
To paraphrase Jack Nicholson as Col. Nathan Jessup in "A Few Good Men": I don't want trophies & I don't want "yes, sirs"...What I do want is for you to stand there in your ragetty-ass workout clothes with your holier-than-thou mouth & extend me some f*cking courtesy!
While we're on that subject...if a certain blue belt "reminds" me one more time what happens next in class, I swear he'll get a quick, decisive lesson in showing proper respect to an instructor. As it stands, I quietly brushed him off & handled class.
Geez! All these distractions & no adequate way to express my feelings!!! Pamibe, how's about letting me use some of those great emoticons you have? :-)
We started a new term for students who sign up through the local community college. It's a no-credit, continuing-education, self-defense class for them. Initially, I was hopeful because of one of the names on the roster - a young lady who was the 1st self-defense student. She had athletic ability, confidence & a good attitude. I'm not sure if she showed but certainly she gets the most out of the class.
Unfortunately, every so often a margarita catches a fly. Also on the roster was the "don't need the commentary" lady. The one that reminds me of Dolores Umbridge of Harry Potter: OoTP fame. You know the type: she says the most insidious things in the most pleasant tone - as if to disguise her malevolence inside a sugary-sweet wrapper. Happily, I didn't have to try & teach her anything tonight...
What hurts me most is I consider myself a patient instructor. I can work with an easily distracted seven year-old & maintain composure without issue. I reason that my patience as a black belt is required to ensure the students are properly trained in self-defense. It's a point of pride for me to show the utmost courtesy in the capacity of a teacher.
In "Dolores'" case, all I want to do is tell her to clean the stuff out of her ears, listen & get a clue.
To paraphrase Jack Nicholson as Col. Nathan Jessup in "A Few Good Men": I don't want trophies & I don't want "yes, sirs"...What I do want is for you to stand there in your ragetty-ass workout clothes with your holier-than-thou mouth & extend me some f*cking courtesy!
While we're on that subject...if a certain blue belt "reminds" me one more time what happens next in class, I swear he'll get a quick, decisive lesson in showing proper respect to an instructor. As it stands, I quietly brushed him off & handled class.
Geez! All these distractions & no adequate way to express my feelings!!! Pamibe, how's about letting me use some of those great emoticons you have? :-)
1/29/09
A Couple Pics...
From my 2nd degree test.
Just to show you it wasn't all fun & games:
And I mean for everyone involved:
There's something cool about taking a big dude down:
My air fall (OK considering it's been 6 months...):
Just to show you it wasn't all fun & games:
And I mean for everyone involved:
There's something cool about taking a big dude down:
My air fall (OK considering it's been 6 months...):
More to come later...
1/28/09
2nd Degree Test
Well, I survived it. If I had to grade it, the grade would be a B-. Not because it was a poor test but because my overall performance should have been closer to personal expectations (As a general rule, we say we don't want to pass a test with a C).
Falling: No real problems here. This was the part that concerned me most as falling on the noggin is a sensitive issue still. My air fall was decent considering that hasn't been done since August 2008. I even did a good air fall over a person. Full credit to Dan for managing to stay still while two black belts jump & flip over him.
The techniques part went well. I can't argue with my performance as even the odd slip or miss on a takedown was recovered quickly & without allowing the "attacker" to fight back. Finishing techniques were largely uninspired yet effective. Hey, if the guy doesn't want to get back up, I delivered the technique well enough!
So then came the situational defense portion...in this we first had to defend ourselves while wearing an ugly pair of pink mittens that wouldn't allow for easy grips. It was nice to see how little individual finger movement affects the techniques I prefer to use. The second part was putting on a "blindfold" with two small (about 1/16" is my guess) holes. These throw off depth perception & forget about peripheral vision. Basically, you have to "feel" your way through the defense. It's freaky but not as frightening as it sounds.
Lastly came the ground fighting...from Hades! I had to go against a former wrestler who was 2 weight classes above me (I'm middleweight, he's heavyweight). We started sitting down, back to back. Now, let me tell you that I'm quick on the ground. 75% of the time I'll get around before the other guy & take his back. That's a huge advantage in a ground fight.
Unfortunately, this was one of those other 25% times...
He prevented my turn & we locked shoulder to shoulder. This is normally a good spot for me when I'm in my weight class. In this case, he walked over me like a welcome mat & I went to my back. "No problem", I thought, "I'll pull guard & work from there". Yeah a great idea except he wasn't so cooperative. He passed my guard on the right & went straight to side control - a horrible position to be in for the guy on bottom.
I worked for a wrist/finger lock but he managed to drop his weight on my hand, blocking it. My left arm was propped under his abdomen to prevent him from smothering. He did manage to get my right hand off of his neck but, fortunately, he didn't know how to manipulate the joint for a shoulder lock. I tried to throw him off me but my hips couldn't generate the force needed to move his mass.
Now, when you're in side control it's important to keep your head facing AWAY from the armpit of the attacker as an elbow to the face (in theory, for class) will make short work of you. I was doing this in textbook form but it didn't prevent him from wrapping that arm around my head & securing it. He pressed me into his gut & hard as I tried, there was no way to breathe or escape.
Yeah, I tapped out as oxygen deprivation isn't on my list of things to enjoy...
Falling: No real problems here. This was the part that concerned me most as falling on the noggin is a sensitive issue still. My air fall was decent considering that hasn't been done since August 2008. I even did a good air fall over a person. Full credit to Dan for managing to stay still while two black belts jump & flip over him.
The techniques part went well. I can't argue with my performance as even the odd slip or miss on a takedown was recovered quickly & without allowing the "attacker" to fight back. Finishing techniques were largely uninspired yet effective. Hey, if the guy doesn't want to get back up, I delivered the technique well enough!
So then came the situational defense portion...in this we first had to defend ourselves while wearing an ugly pair of pink mittens that wouldn't allow for easy grips. It was nice to see how little individual finger movement affects the techniques I prefer to use. The second part was putting on a "blindfold" with two small (about 1/16" is my guess) holes. These throw off depth perception & forget about peripheral vision. Basically, you have to "feel" your way through the defense. It's freaky but not as frightening as it sounds.
Lastly came the ground fighting...from Hades! I had to go against a former wrestler who was 2 weight classes above me (I'm middleweight, he's heavyweight). We started sitting down, back to back. Now, let me tell you that I'm quick on the ground. 75% of the time I'll get around before the other guy & take his back. That's a huge advantage in a ground fight.
Unfortunately, this was one of those other 25% times...
He prevented my turn & we locked shoulder to shoulder. This is normally a good spot for me when I'm in my weight class. In this case, he walked over me like a welcome mat & I went to my back. "No problem", I thought, "I'll pull guard & work from there". Yeah a great idea except he wasn't so cooperative. He passed my guard on the right & went straight to side control - a horrible position to be in for the guy on bottom.
I worked for a wrist/finger lock but he managed to drop his weight on my hand, blocking it. My left arm was propped under his abdomen to prevent him from smothering. He did manage to get my right hand off of his neck but, fortunately, he didn't know how to manipulate the joint for a shoulder lock. I tried to throw him off me but my hips couldn't generate the force needed to move his mass.
Now, when you're in side control it's important to keep your head facing AWAY from the armpit of the attacker as an elbow to the face (in theory, for class) will make short work of you. I was doing this in textbook form but it didn't prevent him from wrapping that arm around my head & securing it. He pressed me into his gut & hard as I tried, there was no way to breathe or escape.
Yeah, I tapped out as oxygen deprivation isn't on my list of things to enjoy...
1/11/09
Test Itinerary
My 2nd degree test will be different than the standard promotion evaluation we have for Hapkido. Normally, we are tested on all our techniques - in this case, that would be over 200 techniques - in addition to groundfighting, "Circle of Death" & demonstrating a few techniques step-by-step.
In this case, however, we're changing from Combat Hapkido to Traditional Hapkido (where we all started), so the test will involve only a selection of 40 techniques, groundfighting, CoD & probably some full-speed punch/kick defense. Since there are fewer techniques, I want to mix in ones I do well & ones that are a challenge. Also, the ones that aren't so useful (IMO) were rooted out.
What is left becomes the below list of names that'll probably make you laugh...
Hap's 40 Technique Test
Palm/Ridgehand_______Front Fall Takedown
Horizontal Elbow_______Wrist Grab Throw
Step-Under Throw_____Throat Takedown
Step-Behind Throw_____Knifehand Armbar
Wrist Roll____________Pinch/Sweep
Suplex Throw_________Slot Machine
Tricep Armbar________Steering Wheel
Hamburger__________Wrap Around
Policeman___________Steering Wheel (Handshake)
Corkscrew___________Fingerlock/Elbow
Rubber Chicken_______Fast Hamburger
Z-Lock_____________Front Inside Sweep
Head Throw_________Front Inside Kick
Throat Spear_________Front Takedown
Fingerlock___________Arm Break/Side Kick
Armbar Throw_______Figure 4 Segal
Triple Whammy______Ki Strike
Tigerclaw Twist_______Double Wrap
Gooseneck__________Hook Takedown 2
Rear Takedown_______Steering Wheel (Punch)
In this case, however, we're changing from Combat Hapkido to Traditional Hapkido (where we all started), so the test will involve only a selection of 40 techniques, groundfighting, CoD & probably some full-speed punch/kick defense. Since there are fewer techniques, I want to mix in ones I do well & ones that are a challenge. Also, the ones that aren't so useful (IMO) were rooted out.
What is left becomes the below list of names that'll probably make you laugh...
Hap's 40 Technique Test
Palm/Ridgehand_______Front Fall Takedown
Horizontal Elbow_______Wrist Grab Throw
Step-Under Throw_____Throat Takedown
Step-Behind Throw_____Knifehand Armbar
Wrist Roll____________Pinch/Sweep
Suplex Throw_________Slot Machine
Tricep Armbar________Steering Wheel
Hamburger__________Wrap Around
Policeman___________Steering Wheel (Handshake)
Corkscrew___________Fingerlock/Elbow
Rubber Chicken_______Fast Hamburger
Z-Lock_____________Front Inside Sweep
Head Throw_________Front Inside Kick
Throat Spear_________Front Takedown
Fingerlock___________Arm Break/Side Kick
Armbar Throw_______Figure 4 Segal
Triple Whammy______Ki Strike
Tigerclaw Twist_______Double Wrap
Gooseneck__________Hook Takedown 2
Rear Takedown_______Steering Wheel (Punch)
1/8/09
2nd Degree (Again?)
Well, I got the e-mail today.
It's the one that inspires nervousness, concern & anxiety: it's time to test once again. This round is for my 2nd Degree in Hapkido on January 27th.
OK, so I'm not all that nervous right now (said the student as he leafed through his HKD binder). It'll get bad as test comes closer & closer.
At least I have the week off to practice up. My 1st degree test involved getting punched in the jaw, choked to the point of almost passing out & barely being able to drag myself off the mat at the end. The hardest part was losing a won position in a ground fight...something I hope to remedy this time around. Unfortunately, the man who beat me, a very good friend of mine, hasn't exactly slacked off!
It's the one that inspires nervousness, concern & anxiety: it's time to test once again. This round is for my 2nd Degree in Hapkido on January 27th.
OK, so I'm not all that nervous right now (said the student as he leafed through his HKD binder). It'll get bad as test comes closer & closer.
At least I have the week off to practice up. My 1st degree test involved getting punched in the jaw, choked to the point of almost passing out & barely being able to drag myself off the mat at the end. The hardest part was losing a won position in a ground fight...something I hope to remedy this time around. Unfortunately, the man who beat me, a very good friend of mine, hasn't exactly slacked off!
1/6/09
Bad Form
OK, lady. I realize that you aren't actually in HKD & are part of the self-defense class. This also means my rank is not relevant to your training and, as such, you are not expected to call black belts "sir" or "ma'am". Believe me, none of the aforementioned means anything to me (I don't like being called "sir"). It's a non-martial arts class mixed in with a ranked martial arts class.
All of this is fine.
What ISN'T fine is addressing me like I'm one of your pals & stating that you, "don't need the commentary". Honey, I've been getting my butt kicked in this class for six years & am still paying my dues every day. You, on the other hand, don't want to be taken down because - in your mind - that must not happen if you don't want it to. To be perfectly straight with you: I ain't yer friend. Regardless of your need for the commentary, you will get it.
Let's be clear that disrespecting me will get you nowhere. If I decide to bore you with my never-ending analysis of the feeding habits of the Bolivian Butter-butt beetle, you can: 1) keep your yap closed & listen; 2) keep your yap closed & walk away; or 3) politely excuse yourself. Notice that not one of these options includes a smart-aleck remark.
I've seen people like you come & go - two others to be exact. Neither of them were cut from the right cloth. So, congratulations, you're now a member of a small (& crappy) club.
***Update***
According to my fellow black belts, bad attitude lady didn't return. While there's no telling if it's an absence or permanent, it is a little unfortunate - as learning self-defense is important for everyone. Still, if someone is lacking the discipline or willingness to learn, there's not much point attending class, either.
All of this is fine.
What ISN'T fine is addressing me like I'm one of your pals & stating that you, "don't need the commentary". Honey, I've been getting my butt kicked in this class for six years & am still paying my dues every day. You, on the other hand, don't want to be taken down because - in your mind - that must not happen if you don't want it to. To be perfectly straight with you: I ain't yer friend. Regardless of your need for the commentary, you will get it.
Let's be clear that disrespecting me will get you nowhere. If I decide to bore you with my never-ending analysis of the feeding habits of the Bolivian Butter-butt beetle, you can: 1) keep your yap closed & listen; 2) keep your yap closed & walk away; or 3) politely excuse yourself. Notice that not one of these options includes a smart-aleck remark.
I've seen people like you come & go - two others to be exact. Neither of them were cut from the right cloth. So, congratulations, you're now a member of a small (& crappy) club.
***Update***
According to my fellow black belts, bad attitude lady didn't return. While there's no telling if it's an absence or permanent, it is a little unfortunate - as learning self-defense is important for everyone. Still, if someone is lacking the discipline or willingness to learn, there's not much point attending class, either.
12/4/08
Black Belt Humility
Even when you think there's plenty of humility in your martial arts career, someone comes along to remind you...
I was working with a very nice lady in class today, who is also a white belt. She has a good attitude, keeps her mind open & listens to the instructors.
She's pretty & kind of looks like Catherine Bell (of JAG fame) but I digress.
We're working on the "statue" drill & I was showing her the footwork needed to coordinate this activity with both hands. Then, a compliment she gave me went horribly awry!
Her: "You're so graceful with those moves. It shows how much you've done this."
Me: "Actually, I haven't done this drill all that much." (Not false modesty. It's true.)
Her: "Oh, well it's obvious you're a trained dancer."
Me: ...
Her: "I'm a good dancer, myself."
Me: "Well, all I really do is Taekwondo..."
OK, ladies, telling a guy he's a good dancer is a compliment. No question about it. Telling a guy he looks like a trained dancer = telling him you question his masculinity. At this point, any guy worth the arrow on that circle will start talking sports, lower his voice an octave & make various grunting noises.
Of course, I was VERY polite - realizing that she's allowed to hit me in class without fear of retribution - and managed to steer the training conversation away from any accusations of me jumping around all nimbly, bimbly.
I was working with a very nice lady in class today, who is also a white belt. She has a good attitude, keeps her mind open & listens to the instructors.
She's pretty & kind of looks like Catherine Bell (of JAG fame) but I digress.
We're working on the "statue" drill & I was showing her the footwork needed to coordinate this activity with both hands. Then, a compliment she gave me went horribly awry!
Her: "You're so graceful with those moves. It shows how much you've done this."
Me: "Actually, I haven't done this drill all that much." (Not false modesty. It's true.)
Her: "Oh, well it's obvious you're a trained dancer."
Me: ...
Her: "I'm a good dancer, myself."
Me: "Well, all I really do is Taekwondo..."
OK, ladies, telling a guy he's a good dancer is a compliment. No question about it. Telling a guy he looks like a trained dancer = telling him you question his masculinity. At this point, any guy worth the arrow on that circle will start talking sports, lower his voice an octave & make various grunting noises.
Of course, I was VERY polite - realizing that she's allowed to hit me in class without fear of retribution - and managed to steer the training conversation away from any accusations of me jumping around all nimbly, bimbly.
11/27/08
Hey, Some Good News!
My instructor was finally promoted in both Taekwondo AND Hapkido! He's been at the same rank in both (5th/3rd) since I started & the promotions were long overdue.
He's now 6th degree in TKD - by way of opening & maintaining two schools, designing the entire curriculum & promoting several students to black belt (starting at white belt) - myself included. It's a time-consuming task that often goes unrewarded. I make a point to thank him putting in so much effort everyday by volunteering to help whenever possible. It's nothing compared to his efforts, but maybe it helps him out just enough.
He was also promoted to 5th degree (master instructor) in HKD. I can tell you from my time in HKD there aren't too many folks who have earned this rank. To get there, he promoted no less than seven people to black belt (again, starting from white belt). In an art where we've seen over 90% of the people drop out at various points (mostly during the throw-heavy yellow belt set), that's an impressive number of people to make 1st degree.
Additionally, he developed a Practical Self-Defense course for those who want to learn how to protect themselves but don't want the high impact of a martial art. He has also designed his own curriculum (based on experience in a few martial arts) with self-defense - the concept behind HKD - entirely at the forefront.
He's been in TKD for well over 20 years (25 this year, I believe) & HKD for about 15 years, so the time & effort invested in earning these ranks has been considerable. Upon getting promoted, the first thing he told me was, "I don't want to make a big deal in class about these promotions". That's just his way about things - he knows where his experience places him in martial arts & he's never taught any of his students that rank counts for anything in reality.
We are all definitely fortunate at our school to have such a dedicated, responsible instructor.
He's now 6th degree in TKD - by way of opening & maintaining two schools, designing the entire curriculum & promoting several students to black belt (starting at white belt) - myself included. It's a time-consuming task that often goes unrewarded. I make a point to thank him putting in so much effort everyday by volunteering to help whenever possible. It's nothing compared to his efforts, but maybe it helps him out just enough.
He was also promoted to 5th degree (master instructor) in HKD. I can tell you from my time in HKD there aren't too many folks who have earned this rank. To get there, he promoted no less than seven people to black belt (again, starting from white belt). In an art where we've seen over 90% of the people drop out at various points (mostly during the throw-heavy yellow belt set), that's an impressive number of people to make 1st degree.
Additionally, he developed a Practical Self-Defense course for those who want to learn how to protect themselves but don't want the high impact of a martial art. He has also designed his own curriculum (based on experience in a few martial arts) with self-defense - the concept behind HKD - entirely at the forefront.
He's been in TKD for well over 20 years (25 this year, I believe) & HKD for about 15 years, so the time & effort invested in earning these ranks has been considerable. Upon getting promoted, the first thing he told me was, "I don't want to make a big deal in class about these promotions". That's just his way about things - he knows where his experience places him in martial arts & he's never taught any of his students that rank counts for anything in reality.
We are all definitely fortunate at our school to have such a dedicated, responsible instructor.
2/5/08
Ahhhh! Finally!
I got to class today!
It was an uphill battle, to be sure. The weather was terrible & my instructor, justifiably, was considering canceling. We're supposed to have upwards of 13 inches (must...resist...bad...joke!) by morning & it apparently decided to get an early start on things.
We only had three people show up - all kids - so I was able to work more on technique than would normally happen in class. The kids all behaved well & I'd say a lot was accomplished (yeah, until next time when they forget all of it!).
Considering the weather, Mr. Reif decided toditch err on the side of caution & leave early. OK, I really don't blame him but I figure if you're at class, may as well stay. We, OK, I, had one new student show up for Hapkido & he did a great job. Heck, he's pretty much a natural at this thing & takes instruction well. Hopefully, he'll keep with it.
After class, I came home, ate something & did some push-ups, crunches & leg-lifts. Yeah, not too many but until my gym membership kicks in, they'll have to do.
It was an uphill battle, to be sure. The weather was terrible & my instructor, justifiably, was considering canceling. We're supposed to have upwards of 13 inches (must...resist...bad...joke!) by morning & it apparently decided to get an early start on things.
We only had three people show up - all kids - so I was able to work more on technique than would normally happen in class. The kids all behaved well & I'd say a lot was accomplished (yeah, until next time when they forget all of it!).
Considering the weather, Mr. Reif decided to
After class, I came home, ate something & did some push-ups, crunches & leg-lifts. Yeah, not too many but until my gym membership kicks in, they'll have to do.
12/7/07
Air Fall
Well, it's been months but at long last here's the video of my air fall. While I'll admit it's not my best (height-wise, that is - I've gone much higher) I've improved dramatically since this video was recorded months ago.
Confidence works wonders!
Confidence works wonders!
11/13/07
Sorry, Bill
So, HKD tonight was going well. Usual stuff, about the normal intensity.
Bill (Mr. Reif to all of you) did a takedown which lead into the near-obligatory groundfight. After rolling for about 30 seconds, Bill stopped, looked at his hand & mentioned he had a slight injury.
Oh, this IS a new one!
He was unable to move his pinky. It was "locked up" at the middle joint and, while there was no pain, it still creeped me out. So, Bill goes to emergency room, class goes on & I'm here feeling bad about hurting one of my sparring buddies.
Sorry about that, Bill. I hope it's OK!
Bill (Mr. Reif to all of you) did a takedown which lead into the near-obligatory groundfight. After rolling for about 30 seconds, Bill stopped, looked at his hand & mentioned he had a slight injury.
Oh, this IS a new one!
He was unable to move his pinky. It was "locked up" at the middle joint and, while there was no pain, it still creeped me out. So, Bill goes to emergency room, class goes on & I'm here feeling bad about hurting one of my sparring buddies.
Sorry about that, Bill. I hope it's OK!
9/28/07
Black Belt, Black Eye
We have a saying the martial arts: You have more to fear in class from a junior belt than you ever will from a black belt. I first heard this as a white belt in HKD & I have never forgotten how true it is.
Well, apparently, I needed a huge dose of reality in the form of a clumsy, 250 lb, police officer yellow belt. Moreover, someone decided my smile (33 years, ZERO cavities!) was a bit too pretty.
This yellow belt was being way too intense the whole night (all 15 minutes of it, anyway) & I know I should have called him on it. He nearly injured a couple others & torqued on my wrist quite a bit. I figured no harm since it's flexible after four years of this treatment. Needless to say, I paid the price for my complacency: Black belts are expected to lead, not just observe & think to themselves.
Anyway, this lumbering junior belt did a breakaway from a single wrist grab that involves "pushing" your elbow into the solar plexus & driving it straight upwards into the person's chin...BUT, that's not where he got me. He didn't even drive into my solar plexus. No hit, no problem.
The problem started when he was coming down. I actually stepped back for this part knowing there's a risk you can get popped in the face when the elbow drops. Well, Skippy apparently decided to over-compensate for my compensation & drove his elbow into the bottom edge of my eye socket. This particular motion drove my head downwards (no, really!) & slammed my mostly closed jaw shut. The resulting crack made me think I lost 1/2 my teeth in that shot!
I dropped to the ground in the interest of: 1) getting away from this guy; and 2) to appraise the extent of my injuries. No blood, eye still seeing 20/20, so far so good. That's when I felt a chunk of tooth in my mouth.
Now, for anyone who's never chipped a tooth by way of having a 250lb guy driving an elbow into your skull, let me tell you that chunk gives you a baaad feeling. Add to that I have basically perfect teeth & you'll understand why I was nervous.
I went to the restroom & got the piece of tooth out. Fortunately, not that big. It was a small, angled chip off my lower incisor (#25, I think). I went home & used some fluoride mouthwash on it & went to the dentist this morning. Apparently, it's fixable with "no problems" according to the dentist (BTW, Gentle Dental rules! They are so great!)
As for the rest, the elbow impact (just below my left eye) was iced immediately & that kept the swelling to a minimum. I've still got a bit of a shiner & it's tender but I was very lucky.
The lesson learned? First, I will ALWAYS use my mouthguard - even during warm-ups. The other guys call me paranoid but that's too close a call to look like a hockey player permanently. Second, if there's a student acting a bit too rough for his/her level I will tell the person about it & slow them down. Addendum: Unless it's a very attractive "she" & then we'll see where it goes. heh heh
Seriously, take a cue from Roses & learn from another person's mistake: If it's not looking quite right or seems out of place - it probably is. Do something about it when you see it, not when it's too late.
Well, apparently, I needed a huge dose of reality in the form of a clumsy, 250 lb, police officer yellow belt. Moreover, someone decided my smile (33 years, ZERO cavities!) was a bit too pretty.
This yellow belt was being way too intense the whole night (all 15 minutes of it, anyway) & I know I should have called him on it. He nearly injured a couple others & torqued on my wrist quite a bit. I figured no harm since it's flexible after four years of this treatment. Needless to say, I paid the price for my complacency: Black belts are expected to lead, not just observe & think to themselves.
Anyway, this lumbering junior belt did a breakaway from a single wrist grab that involves "pushing" your elbow into the solar plexus & driving it straight upwards into the person's chin...BUT, that's not where he got me. He didn't even drive into my solar plexus. No hit, no problem.
The problem started when he was coming down. I actually stepped back for this part knowing there's a risk you can get popped in the face when the elbow drops. Well, Skippy apparently decided to over-compensate for my compensation & drove his elbow into the bottom edge of my eye socket. This particular motion drove my head downwards (no, really!) & slammed my mostly closed jaw shut. The resulting crack made me think I lost 1/2 my teeth in that shot!
I dropped to the ground in the interest of: 1) getting away from this guy; and 2) to appraise the extent of my injuries. No blood, eye still seeing 20/20, so far so good. That's when I felt a chunk of tooth in my mouth.
Now, for anyone who's never chipped a tooth by way of having a 250lb guy driving an elbow into your skull, let me tell you that chunk gives you a baaad feeling. Add to that I have basically perfect teeth & you'll understand why I was nervous.
I went to the restroom & got the piece of tooth out. Fortunately, not that big. It was a small, angled chip off my lower incisor (#25, I think). I went home & used some fluoride mouthwash on it & went to the dentist this morning. Apparently, it's fixable with "no problems" according to the dentist (BTW, Gentle Dental rules! They are so great!)
As for the rest, the elbow impact (just below my left eye) was iced immediately & that kept the swelling to a minimum. I've still got a bit of a shiner & it's tender but I was very lucky.
The lesson learned? First, I will ALWAYS use my mouthguard - even during warm-ups. The other guys call me paranoid but that's too close a call to look like a hockey player permanently. Second, if there's a student acting a bit too rough for his/her level I will tell the person about it & slow them down. Addendum: Unless it's a very attractive "she" & then we'll see where it goes. heh heh
Seriously, take a cue from Roses & learn from another person's mistake: If it's not looking quite right or seems out of place - it probably is. Do something about it when you see it, not when it's too late.
9/18/07
Earned My Title
Last week I tested for & passed my 1st Degree test in Hapkido.
Before I get into details, apologies to ChlorineJenny of IDPWWO for not having the air fall video - yet. I will post the clip as soon as I have it.
My techniques went pretty well. I didn't miss any - which is good considering there's 171 of them. I do think my throws could have been better. I'm normally solid with them & while they weren't bad I expected them to be faster.
Being in the circle went well. I didn't get too fancy - that would be bad against three black belts. - & put my focus on keeping them off me. I did have to use a sort of blind fold (it had small holes that allowed no peripheral vision & screwed up depth-of-field) when doing self-defense & I took a light shot to the jaw.
Groundfighting. Ah, how to describe this unbelievable event! I had to spar one of my best friends - a guy known for his natural ability & speed on the ground - & I started off by getting him in a rear mount! Now, many of you, particularly Harvey, may be wondering why this is so great. Well, in groundfighting, there are four basic positions. In ascending order of dominance, they are:
4) Side Control (Attacker on back, chest to chest)
3) Guard (Attacker inside your legs)
2) Mount (Attacker on bottom)
1) Rear Mount (Attacker in front, back to you)
In other words a rear mount is about as good as it's going to get in a groundfight. Yes, there are ways out of it but they're all very tough. I tapped out a 2nd degree with years of experience by using this position.
So, I have Adam in a rear mount & everyone was just amazed at this. I'm pulling him up to seat the choke, I have my hooks into his legs (so he can't turn his body out of the choke) & I start to squeeze my elbows to choke him out...
That's when it happened.
I don't know how many of you ever experienced a cramp in your calf muscle but let me tell you it HURTS! Even more so when your friend is grabbing it to free himself. Adam was digging in & pushing my leg off so he could turn his body. There wasn't much I could do because that cramp was killing me.
Still, I kept in the fight. I tried to force him out with the choke but it was nothing happening. He had turned out of it & dropped his forearm on my unprotected throat. I've been in this position countless times & I've never panicked. I placed my arm on his elbow & started to push while turning my hips. That's when I realized he had wrapped his other arm behind my neck to support the choke.
There wasn't much I could do. As I went to force his hand off the back of my neck, he dropped his weight on me. Discretion being the better part of valor, I tapped when I started seeing stars & blacking out. It was a heartbreaker but there's no shame in losing to a superior opponent.
All I can remember thinking is, "Man, I HAD him"!
The groundfight against Kyle (the 2nd Degree) was good. No submissions & it went to a draw. He was in a better position (mount) at the end but I was doing OK all things considered.
Well, that's the test. It was good, no one got hurt & I was more sore than I've ever been. I'll have that video up as soon as I get it.
Before I get into details, apologies to ChlorineJenny of IDPWWO for not having the air fall video - yet. I will post the clip as soon as I have it.
My techniques went pretty well. I didn't miss any - which is good considering there's 171 of them. I do think my throws could have been better. I'm normally solid with them & while they weren't bad I expected them to be faster.
Being in the circle went well. I didn't get too fancy - that would be bad against three black belts. - & put my focus on keeping them off me. I did have to use a sort of blind fold (it had small holes that allowed no peripheral vision & screwed up depth-of-field) when doing self-defense & I took a light shot to the jaw.
Groundfighting. Ah, how to describe this unbelievable event! I had to spar one of my best friends - a guy known for his natural ability & speed on the ground - & I started off by getting him in a rear mount! Now, many of you, particularly Harvey, may be wondering why this is so great. Well, in groundfighting, there are four basic positions. In ascending order of dominance, they are:
4) Side Control (Attacker on back, chest to chest)
3) Guard (Attacker inside your legs)
2) Mount (Attacker on bottom)
1) Rear Mount (Attacker in front, back to you)
In other words a rear mount is about as good as it's going to get in a groundfight. Yes, there are ways out of it but they're all very tough. I tapped out a 2nd degree with years of experience by using this position.
So, I have Adam in a rear mount & everyone was just amazed at this. I'm pulling him up to seat the choke, I have my hooks into his legs (so he can't turn his body out of the choke) & I start to squeeze my elbows to choke him out...
That's when it happened.
I don't know how many of you ever experienced a cramp in your calf muscle but let me tell you it HURTS! Even more so when your friend is grabbing it to free himself. Adam was digging in & pushing my leg off so he could turn his body. There wasn't much I could do because that cramp was killing me.
Still, I kept in the fight. I tried to force him out with the choke but it was nothing happening. He had turned out of it & dropped his forearm on my unprotected throat. I've been in this position countless times & I've never panicked. I placed my arm on his elbow & started to push while turning my hips. That's when I realized he had wrapped his other arm behind my neck to support the choke.
There wasn't much I could do. As I went to force his hand off the back of my neck, he dropped his weight on me. Discretion being the better part of valor, I tapped when I started seeing stars & blacking out. It was a heartbreaker but there's no shame in losing to a superior opponent.
All I can remember thinking is, "Man, I HAD him"!
The groundfight against Kyle (the 2nd Degree) was good. No submissions & it went to a draw. He was in a better position (mount) at the end but I was doing OK all things considered.
Well, that's the test. It was good, no one got hurt & I was more sore than I've ever been. I'll have that video up as soon as I get it.
8/29/07
Addendum
On my last note to self:
While demonstrating an air fall is a good way to scare adults away, kids will treat it like a carnival ride & keep asking you to do it again.
On the plus side, I set a new personal record for height. Estimate was almost 5'!
If you're thinking 5' doesn't sound like much jump in the air, go horizontal & land on your side. Let me know how it feels...when you get out of the hospital. ;-)
While demonstrating an air fall is a good way to scare adults away, kids will treat it like a carnival ride & keep asking you to do it again.
On the plus side, I set a new personal record for height. Estimate was almost 5'!
If you're thinking 5' doesn't sound like much jump in the air, go horizontal & land on your side. Let me know how it feels...when you get out of the hospital. ;-)
8/8/07
Things Not To Try
Note to self, HapKiDo:
When a new guy starts martial arts, the best way to scare him out of that place in two seconds is to demonstrate an air fall from about four feet up.
Fortunately, he decided to stick with it. :-)
When a new guy starts martial arts, the best way to scare him out of that place in two seconds is to demonstrate an air fall from about four feet up.
Fortunately, he decided to stick with it. :-)
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