I've decided to get ready for my 3rd degree test. I'm only a bit overdue (7/31/2009 was my eligibility date) so maybe I should think about getting ready.
The first step I took was joining the local gym - which I've been attending regularly. The workouts have been mostly cardio, though my brother has helped me with some minor weight training. He does a system of opposition: when he works one set of muscles, he then works the muscles that pull in the opposite direction. It feels balanced & it seems I'm not so sore the next day.
The second step is learning the two forms I need to promote to 3rd Degree: Choong-Jang & Juche. If you watch these, the former doesn't seem too bad to me. The latter is a bit more involved & I think it'll take a lot more time to put together (much less make it look good).
Next, I have to design 5 one-step sparring techniques (basically, punch defense) which are mostly complete. I'm centering this around punching combinations from an attacker. This came from the idea that an aggressor won't just stop after the first punch & the attacks will keep coming. It seems to flow well & I've even incorporated some good HKD concepts into them.
When all this comes together, I'll do a video of my forms, self-defense & one steps to send to my instructor. If he's satisfied with my performance, hopefully I'll be able to test for 3rd Degree after I do a refresher on all the terminology...
Showing posts with label Testing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Testing. Show all posts
1/11/10
5/22/09
The Highest Order
A compliment of, that is.
At our most recent test in TKD, we had a pretty lousy showing. I couldn't believe how poorly many of them did - it's like most of the students just didn't want to try. Even the most recent student of the month did terrible. Frustrating, just frustrating.
Fortunately, the adults who tested did a decent job. One student in particular did a spectacular job even though he's a white belt. Now, he's also an advanced student in Arnis & can really handle himself, so it's not like we're talking about a completely new-to-martial-arts student here.
In any event, I was the one judging him & even his terminology was excellent. He was straight-forward in his answers & demonstrated complete knowledge of the material. Afterwards, he came up to me & mentioned that he started TKD to work with his young daughter & decided to stick with it because he was impressed with how precise & strong my kicks & strikes are.
This, coming from a man who could whip me in a no-holds-barred fight in about 30 seconds! It's a great compliment & one that will only encourage me to work harder so the example set is the best possible.
At our most recent test in TKD, we had a pretty lousy showing. I couldn't believe how poorly many of them did - it's like most of the students just didn't want to try. Even the most recent student of the month did terrible. Frustrating, just frustrating.
Fortunately, the adults who tested did a decent job. One student in particular did a spectacular job even though he's a white belt. Now, he's also an advanced student in Arnis & can really handle himself, so it's not like we're talking about a completely new-to-martial-arts student here.
In any event, I was the one judging him & even his terminology was excellent. He was straight-forward in his answers & demonstrated complete knowledge of the material. Afterwards, he came up to me & mentioned that he started TKD to work with his young daughter & decided to stick with it because he was impressed with how precise & strong my kicks & strikes are.
This, coming from a man who could whip me in a no-holds-barred fight in about 30 seconds! It's a great compliment & one that will only encourage me to work harder so the example set is the best possible.
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!
12/17/08
Test
We had 3 candidates test for black belts tonight (Catie & JD for 1st degree, Will for recommended black).
Both JD's & Catie's technique were beyond impressive. All things being equal (which they aren't), each could probably take me in sparring. Both caught me once or twice in 1-on-1 but I still landed most of the hits. Still, the talent of these two make me feel like I've lost a step - but that says more to their abilities than anything.
Will has decent technique - he gets frustrated easily at 16 - and it's his power that does the talking. He's taller & stronger than the average 16 year-old...you'll know it when he hits you. Fortunately, for me, that power comes at the price of less speed. Once he starts throwing combos, however, you'd better watch out!
Self-defense was great for all of them. Catie needs to put more "oomph" into it, but she can still make you pay for grabbing her. Will was shown that he can't rely on power to get him out of every situation & adapted quickly. JD stayed cool under fire.
All three passed. We need to work with JD on terminology, Catie on power & Will on sharpening a few techniques. All are in great shape at their respective levels & there's plenty of time to get them dialed in with the above.
Both JD's & Catie's technique were beyond impressive. All things being equal (which they aren't), each could probably take me in sparring. Both caught me once or twice in 1-on-1 but I still landed most of the hits. Still, the talent of these two make me feel like I've lost a step - but that says more to their abilities than anything.
Will has decent technique - he gets frustrated easily at 16 - and it's his power that does the talking. He's taller & stronger than the average 16 year-old...you'll know it when he hits you. Fortunately, for me, that power comes at the price of less speed. Once he starts throwing combos, however, you'd better watch out!
Self-defense was great for all of them. Catie needs to put more "oomph" into it, but she can still make you pay for grabbing her. Will was shown that he can't rely on power to get him out of every situation & adapted quickly. JD stayed cool under fire.
All three passed. We need to work with JD on terminology, Catie on power & Will on sharpening a few techniques. All are in great shape at their respective levels & there's plenty of time to get them dialed in with the above.
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.
8/3/07
2nd Degree Essay
As (long ago) promised, here is my 2nd Degree Essay. Mrs. Who, I'm particularly interested in your thoughts. This sucker's long, so it may take you some time.
As with the 1st Degree Essay, feel free to read it, give me input & offer general opinions. I have to draw the line at anyone copying this work as your own, publishing on another form of media, etc.
Honestly folks, I just earned my 2nd degree black belt & am about to go for another one in Hapkido! Use your heads...
Besides, that's just plain rude! :-)
As with the 1st Degree Essay, feel free to read it, give me input & offer general opinions. I have to draw the line at anyone copying this work as your own, publishing on another form of media, etc.
Honestly folks, I just earned my 2nd degree black belt & am about to go for another one in Hapkido! Use your heads...
Besides, that's just plain rude! :-)
7/31/07
I Didn't Get Beat Up By A Girl!
That's right. The most worrisome part of my 2nd degree test was having to spar a woman.
Did I mention it was a very attractive woman?
Who was quite fast?
Well, point is, I didn't get my butt kicked. I did pretty darn well by all accounts. No, I didn't hurt her - if that's what you're worried about - I'm sure she could have hurt me just as much as I her. I did manage to get a couple would-be knockouts to her head (no contact). She gave as well as she got, though.
The 2nd degree test went very well. I was pretty well winded by the time we got to self-defense. We're talking stomach cramps, doubled over but still fighting kind of pain! I did a couple takedowns that were fairly impressive & a few that somehow got the job done.
Breaking, not really my strong suit but still something I do well, came off better than expected. I put my hand through two bricks like they were barely there! The first one split down the middle like I took a saw to it & the bottom one broke into three large pieces. All well by my account.
Here's the video:
Ah, then came the candle - yes, this little monster of a test. I had to punch out the flame of a candle with a punch. Really, it's not as hard as you might think - you just punch, twist & put your hips into it. Sucker was out & smoldering like Lindsay Lohan on a coke bender.
Lastly came the Q & A - no, Harvey, this isn't as entertaining as the other "& A" you might have wanted to hear about. The questions were pointed, serious & difficult. Mr. Scott pulled no punches, as it were, & asked me if I felt I could take over for my instructor (No, of course!) & how well I felt I could pass on my knowledge to others (Technique - yes, Philosophy, not entirely). It was a heck of a grilling.
As you may have guessed, I survived. Yes, I was promoted to 2nd Degree in TKD! It's an accomplishment that can only be properly celebrated with beer...which I already did...& sleep, which I'm about to do. :-)
I'm going to be sooooo sore in the morning.
Did I mention it was a very attractive woman?
Who was quite fast?
Well, point is, I didn't get my butt kicked. I did pretty darn well by all accounts. No, I didn't hurt her - if that's what you're worried about - I'm sure she could have hurt me just as much as I her. I did manage to get a couple would-be knockouts to her head (no contact). She gave as well as she got, though.
The 2nd degree test went very well. I was pretty well winded by the time we got to self-defense. We're talking stomach cramps, doubled over but still fighting kind of pain! I did a couple takedowns that were fairly impressive & a few that somehow got the job done.
Breaking, not really my strong suit but still something I do well, came off better than expected. I put my hand through two bricks like they were barely there! The first one split down the middle like I took a saw to it & the bottom one broke into three large pieces. All well by my account.
Here's the video:
Ah, then came the candle - yes, this little monster of a test. I had to punch out the flame of a candle with a punch. Really, it's not as hard as you might think - you just punch, twist & put your hips into it. Sucker was out & smoldering like Lindsay Lohan on a coke bender.
Lastly came the Q & A - no, Harvey, this isn't as entertaining as the other "& A" you might have wanted to hear about. The questions were pointed, serious & difficult. Mr. Scott pulled no punches, as it were, & asked me if I felt I could take over for my instructor (No, of course!) & how well I felt I could pass on my knowledge to others (Technique - yes, Philosophy, not entirely). It was a heck of a grilling.
As you may have guessed, I survived. Yes, I was promoted to 2nd Degree in TKD! It's an accomplishment that can only be properly celebrated with beer...which I already did...& sleep, which I'm about to do. :-)
I'm going to be sooooo sore in the morning.
7/15/07
Training - Week 1 - Day 5
I had to make a post on this. I went running this morning at the usual bike trail. It's paved but still decent for running in the morning when a lot of people aren't there. You can actually run into downtown Cedar Rapids on it but that's not worth the trouble - downtown stinks (trash heap upwind...'nuff said).
I was just crossing the street to the part of the trail that goes around a small lake & had a good head of steam going. The sun was out, clear skies, no wind. Birds singing, ducks quacking, sparrows "chasing" me by flying around my head. I can't explain it - birds must have some amazing fascination with me. Anyway, the day was just beautiful.
Until Mr. Aqua Velva walked by in the opposite direction.
Seriously, I'm a man's man - I wear cologne (Lucky #6, Zegna or Acqua di Gio - if you must know) in appropriate situations. Going out to run, get sweaty & generally smell of stink when you finish is NOT ONE OF THOSE TIMES. In fact, all it does is nauseate the other people out on the trail. Nothing slows you down like a big, heaping lungful of funk in the middle of a run.
I was just crossing the street to the part of the trail that goes around a small lake & had a good head of steam going. The sun was out, clear skies, no wind. Birds singing, ducks quacking, sparrows "chasing" me by flying around my head. I can't explain it - birds must have some amazing fascination with me. Anyway, the day was just beautiful.
Until Mr. Aqua Velva walked by in the opposite direction.
Seriously, I'm a man's man - I wear cologne (Lucky #6, Zegna or Acqua di Gio - if you must know) in appropriate situations. Going out to run, get sweaty & generally smell of stink when you finish is NOT ONE OF THOSE TIMES. In fact, all it does is nauseate the other people out on the trail. Nothing slows you down like a big, heaping lungful of funk in the middle of a run.
Training - Week 1
I'm getting things ready for my 2nd degree test & the biggest worry on my mind is endurance. Yes, forms, sparring & self-defense are all issues as well but my level of preparedness on those is good, at least.
No, it's my ability to stay in the game that's got me worried.
My 1st degree test pushed me to the limit. It lasted 1 hour, 15 minutes & left me nothing short of exhausted! The 2nd degree test promises to take everything from 1st degree, add three more forms, more self-defense & even more unknowns (something Master Rion likes to throw at us). Needless to say, being well-prepared in the area if endurance is important.
I've been running/walking (walking because it's hard on the knees - something I can't afford) for about six miles every other day since setting my test date. Keep in mind I'll be attending regular classes during this time AND practicing all my forms, one-steps & self-defense outside of school. I make no promises that I'll be able to leap tall buildings in a single bound - only that I'll be better prepared for my upcoming test.
Once it's done & I'm (hopefully) promoted, I'll post some pics & my essay.
No, it's my ability to stay in the game that's got me worried.
My 1st degree test pushed me to the limit. It lasted 1 hour, 15 minutes & left me nothing short of exhausted! The 2nd degree test promises to take everything from 1st degree, add three more forms, more self-defense & even more unknowns (something Master Rion likes to throw at us). Needless to say, being well-prepared in the area if endurance is important.
I've been running/walking (walking because it's hard on the knees - something I can't afford) for about six miles every other day since setting my test date. Keep in mind I'll be attending regular classes during this time AND practicing all my forms, one-steps & self-defense outside of school. I make no promises that I'll be able to leap tall buildings in a single bound - only that I'll be better prepared for my upcoming test.
Once it's done & I'm (hopefully) promoted, I'll post some pics & my essay.
7/11/07
Time For 2nd Degree
Well, I haven't given an update on the 2nd degree (TKD) that I'm pursuing. Here's what I know:
My test will be on 7/31/2007, a Tuesday. It's going to be a long row to hoe. I have to keep up on the forms (13 of them), punch defense, self-defense, breaking & terminology. If that doesn't sound like much, give yourself a good slap...OK, don't do that! :-)
Seriously, keep in mind that I teach anywhere from two to three classes a week, have Hapkido as well & that nuisance of a job. Wow! That's even more stuff now that I look at it.
Master Rion did accept my essay for 2nd Degree. For anyone who wants to read that, I will be posting it after I'm promoted. Yes, like the Harry Potter book, you need to wait! Unlike the Harry Potter book, hopefully nobody dies in my test!
Wish me luck!
My test will be on 7/31/2007, a Tuesday. It's going to be a long row to hoe. I have to keep up on the forms (13 of them), punch defense, self-defense, breaking & terminology. If that doesn't sound like much, give yourself a good slap...OK, don't do that! :-)
Seriously, keep in mind that I teach anywhere from two to three classes a week, have Hapkido as well & that nuisance of a job. Wow! That's even more stuff now that I look at it.
Master Rion did accept my essay for 2nd Degree. For anyone who wants to read that, I will be posting it after I'm promoted. Yes, like the Harry Potter book, you need to wait! Unlike the Harry Potter book, hopefully nobody dies in my test!
Wish me luck!
6/9/07
2nd Degree Essay
Well, it's all done!
One rough draft & many revisions later I have what I consider to be my finest work. I dare say my writing was bold, when needed, subtle, when nuance was appropriate, and organized, like a Bad Example comment attack. I even went so far as to have an English teacher review my paper. If there's anything as blunt-force trauma through criticism, an English teacher can show you!
It's also my longest piece ever. 1o pages, single spaced.
So, when can everyone read it? >:-)
...
...
...
You can't! Well, at least not until my instructor reads it & accepts my thesis for teaching. After that, it's going to the public domain. In the mean time, feel free to read my 1st Degree Essay.
One rough draft & many revisions later I have what I consider to be my finest work. I dare say my writing was bold, when needed, subtle, when nuance was appropriate, and organized, like a Bad Example comment attack. I even went so far as to have an English teacher review my paper. If there's anything as blunt-force trauma through criticism, an English teacher can show you!
It's also my longest piece ever. 1o pages, single spaced.
So, when can everyone read it? >:-)
...
...
...
You can't! Well, at least not until my instructor reads it & accepts my thesis for teaching. After that, it's going to the public domain. In the mean time, feel free to read my 1st Degree Essay.
6/7/07
New Black Belts!
We had six, count 'em, six, students test for either recommended black belt, junior black belt or 1st Degree black belt tonight! Since they all deserve an individual recognition, here's my breakdown of each candidate's test:
1) Dylan (1st Degree): Above standards, as always. He's a talented kid of (almost) 16 who enjoys TKD, HKD & Arnis. Not only were all of his techniques better than I'd expect of someone testing for 1st degree, his knowledge of all required terminology was perfect! Add to that a student who shows respect to every person in class & you have a young man who earned his black belt in every way.
2) Broc (Junior Black Belt): Because he's under 16, Broc wasn't eligible to receive his 1st Degree belt. In some ways that's a shame because Broc, whom I graded, knocked it out of the park! Not only did he impress me with much-improved kicks & strikes, he also managed to answer every question but one when I tested him on terminology. For anyone who's ever had to endure my form of inquisition, they'll tell you it's not easy.
3) Zach (Junior Black Belt): Another solid test. He does need to work on forms - his only weak point - but the rest of his test was excellent. He's never one to hesitate when sparring or practicing self-defense & that's where he really shined.
4) Michael (Junior Black Belt): Michael is a student at the Cedar Rapids school. He's well-balanced in most aspects of the art & tonight was no disappointment. His forms, one-steps & sparring were all respectable. Where he needs to improve is reaction time for self-defense. There were a couple spots where he hesitated. Still, that's why we work on these things in class.
5) Josh (Recommended Black): Josh holds himself to very high standards. This was evident in the test where he did very well in every part - no exceptions. He broke one of two boards & you could see the disappointment on his face. I explained to him that wanting to improve is fine - feeling disappointed because you earned a 99 out of 100 on a test isn't. He did a good job & he should believe that - I'm not an easy judge.
6) Katie (Recommended Black): Other than Dylan, Katie is the one for whom I had the highest expectations. Though just a young teenager, she was in gymnastics before TKD & her natural flexibility & endurance as a gymnast show. That being said, I'm happy to see she doesn't take that ability for granted & puts effort into every part of class. Focused is how I'd best describe her when in class or testing.
Again, congratulations to all the new black belts! You all earned every bit of the black belts you can now wear.
1) Dylan (1st Degree): Above standards, as always. He's a talented kid of (almost) 16 who enjoys TKD, HKD & Arnis. Not only were all of his techniques better than I'd expect of someone testing for 1st degree, his knowledge of all required terminology was perfect! Add to that a student who shows respect to every person in class & you have a young man who earned his black belt in every way.
2) Broc (Junior Black Belt): Because he's under 16, Broc wasn't eligible to receive his 1st Degree belt. In some ways that's a shame because Broc, whom I graded, knocked it out of the park! Not only did he impress me with much-improved kicks & strikes, he also managed to answer every question but one when I tested him on terminology. For anyone who's ever had to endure my form of inquisition, they'll tell you it's not easy.
3) Zach (Junior Black Belt): Another solid test. He does need to work on forms - his only weak point - but the rest of his test was excellent. He's never one to hesitate when sparring or practicing self-defense & that's where he really shined.
4) Michael (Junior Black Belt): Michael is a student at the Cedar Rapids school. He's well-balanced in most aspects of the art & tonight was no disappointment. His forms, one-steps & sparring were all respectable. Where he needs to improve is reaction time for self-defense. There were a couple spots where he hesitated. Still, that's why we work on these things in class.
5) Josh (Recommended Black): Josh holds himself to very high standards. This was evident in the test where he did very well in every part - no exceptions. He broke one of two boards & you could see the disappointment on his face. I explained to him that wanting to improve is fine - feeling disappointed because you earned a 99 out of 100 on a test isn't. He did a good job & he should believe that - I'm not an easy judge.
6) Katie (Recommended Black): Other than Dylan, Katie is the one for whom I had the highest expectations. Though just a young teenager, she was in gymnastics before TKD & her natural flexibility & endurance as a gymnast show. That being said, I'm happy to see she doesn't take that ability for granted & puts effort into every part of class. Focused is how I'd best describe her when in class or testing.
Again, congratulations to all the new black belts! You all earned every bit of the black belts you can now wear.
5/16/07
2nd Degree Essay, 1st Class Mistake
Well, I finished the rough draft of the essay & I felt the first 1/2 was kind of weak compared to the second. Thinking I needed an honest evaluation, I decided to let a student at the school review the paper.
The student is also an English teacher...
It's nice to know I write very well (according to her. I'm too humble to EVER say that!) but also a hard cold slap of reality to see so much red ink on my paper after one hour of review.
OUCH!
The student is also an English teacher...
It's nice to know I write very well (according to her. I'm too humble to EVER say that!) but also a hard cold slap of reality to see so much red ink on my paper after one hour of review.
OUCH!
5/9/07
Work In Progress
Sorry for the lack of posting. I've been hard at work on my 2nd degree essay & mixing serious/recreational writing is a baaad idea, in my book!
The paper is coming along well. I have a detailed outline I'm putting to good use & the result - so far - is a partially completed rough draft that is four (4) pages long. Now, that doesn't sound like a lot but I'm not even halfway through the outline yet. We're talking about ten (10) pages here!
By comparison, my 1st degree essay was five (5) pages. Both are good topics but the latest requires more analysis & introspection than the first.
The paper is coming along well. I have a detailed outline I'm putting to good use & the result - so far - is a partially completed rough draft that is four (4) pages long. Now, that doesn't sound like a lot but I'm not even halfway through the outline yet. We're talking about ten (10) pages here!
By comparison, my 1st degree essay was five (5) pages. Both are good topics but the latest requires more analysis & introspection than the first.
4/25/07
Mr. Reif's 2nd Degree Test
An excellent test, really! It set quite a standard for anyone who follows.
Above all else his throws were spectacular. I was taken down on three Judo throws & all of them were fast, smooth & clean on the landing. I can't remember when I've seen (or felt) it done better. The fact I was able to bounce back up right after landing is testament to Bill's control.
After his techniques, we had the pressure point portion of the test. Not only did he nail them (Gall Bladder 41, specifically!) but the walk through showed he was very familiar with all 18 points required of him. Again, seeing as all my bodily functions are in tact, I'd say his control is excellent. :-)
Lastly, we had groundfighting. This is where his test was most similar to my recommended black belt test. I fought him to a draw in my test & a loss to Mr. Willfong. In his test, we again fought to a draw (I almost had that rear-naked choke!) & he was tapped out by Mr. Godfey. As a side note Mr. Godfrey is an instructor for Modern Army Combatives (Groundfighting) & he's one heck of a tough opponent. Mr. Reif nearly went the distance after one hour of physical activity so that's saying something!
Bill, incredible job on the test! I threw everything I had at you for one hour & you still managed to walk away without limping (mostly) ;-)
Above all else his throws were spectacular. I was taken down on three Judo throws & all of them were fast, smooth & clean on the landing. I can't remember when I've seen (or felt) it done better. The fact I was able to bounce back up right after landing is testament to Bill's control.
After his techniques, we had the pressure point portion of the test. Not only did he nail them (Gall Bladder 41, specifically!) but the walk through showed he was very familiar with all 18 points required of him. Again, seeing as all my bodily functions are in tact, I'd say his control is excellent. :-)
Lastly, we had groundfighting. This is where his test was most similar to my recommended black belt test. I fought him to a draw in my test & a loss to Mr. Willfong. In his test, we again fought to a draw (I almost had that rear-naked choke!) & he was tapped out by Mr. Godfey. As a side note Mr. Godfrey is an instructor for Modern Army Combatives (Groundfighting) & he's one heck of a tough opponent. Mr. Reif nearly went the distance after one hour of physical activity so that's saying something!
Bill, incredible job on the test! I threw everything I had at you for one hour & you still managed to walk away without limping (mostly) ;-)
4/14/07
2nd Degree Essay
I've got the outline well in progress on this assignment. Needless to say I was shocked by the amount of information I plan to cover. When I put it all down on paper it looks like we could have ten pages here!
I'm going to start by defining who an instructor is & branch off from there to discuss Challenges (both in becoming & being an instructor), a plan of action for teaching, monitoring progress (for both the student & instructor) & finally the results/rewards anticipated by following my particular philosophy. Note: nowhere in this will I discuss getting a multi-million $$ book deal for my obviously brilliant writing! :-P
I'm still leaps & bounds away from putting it all into a draft form. Still, the start of that should be about a week away if I keep with it. I have a couple compatriots who should review my current progress before I continue.
I'm going to start by defining who an instructor is & branch off from there to discuss Challenges (both in becoming & being an instructor), a plan of action for teaching, monitoring progress (for both the student & instructor) & finally the results/rewards anticipated by following my particular philosophy. Note: nowhere in this will I discuss getting a multi-million $$ book deal for my obviously brilliant writing! :-P
I'm still leaps & bounds away from putting it all into a draft form. Still, the start of that should be about a week away if I keep with it. I have a couple compatriots who should review my current progress before I continue.
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