What’s next?
Now that I’ve hit 3rd dan in TKD, I’m reflecting a bit on where I’m headed.
In TKD…
I’m continuing to teach, that’s a given. My training will continue as it has been. I’ve been emphasizing low, centered movement, but I’m still working on improving that. I also had the chance to watch part of a video from my black belt exam where I was sparring. To my own eye, I looked slow and fairly immobile. Some techniques were good, but my movement was only middling. I need to work on quickness and slipping techniques. My body type isn’t really built for that (6′ 195, large thighs), but I think I need to improve in quickness and balance. Added core strength would be a plus.
In Hapkido…
Okay, this one is really easy. 2nd dan test in 2 weeks. Many of the same principles I mentioned in the TKD section also apply here. I need to transition from entries into techniques more fluidly. We’ve been doing a lot of countering drills, feeling the balance and shifting to a different technique when the opponent’s energy changes. It is great stuff, but I still find it difficult to quickly recognize the balance and positioning, and then figure out my best more from there.
In BJJ…
Finally going to start it back up! It has been 10 months. I’ve missed grappling, so I am looking forward to going back. Here, quite simply, I need need to work on not injuring myself. I’m going to try to work on technique and fluid movement without relying on muscling my opponent around. Easier said then done… once the blood starts flowing in a grappling match, my competitive instincts take over.
In Kali…
Well, something has to slip. I stopped it leading up to my promotion exam, and I didn’t miss it. I think that means I’m not ready to be a student.
In Fitness…
P90x has been great. However, for 2/3 times per week, I’m not sure it is the best use of my time. The number of reps in the workouts is high, but maybe I’d get better results by splitting those reps across more days. I think I’ll do the Plyo workout periodically. Maybe I’ll try out kettleballs sooner or later. If the weather cooperates, I might going jogging more often. I went for around 2.5 miles on Sunday, and it was almost fun.