Thursday, June 30, 2016

Round 2 of Middle Age Karate

Last night was my second class as an adult white belt karate student. This class was harder than the first one. The warm up had me winded, sad to admit. I gave it my all though the whole way through. We learned a kata that we are supposed to perform at tournament in a few weeks and then again at the end of the term to rank up to the next belt. I will really have to work on it even though I helped my son learn it two sessions ago. It is much easier to teach and give pointers than to do yourself! In this class we also did some self defense moves that were pretty cool. Hope I never have to use any of that stuff.

Friday, June 24, 2016

Karate - My New Challenge

My son started karate at 5 years old. He loved it. He is now almost 11 and as tall as me. His height got him moved up from the Junior division to the Adult division this past year. Weekly when just sitting on my tush playing on my phone, reading a book or just watching the class I had the random scary thought what if I signed up for the class. What if instead of sitting here I actually did what they are all doing. Most if not all the newbies were around my son's age so that was a big mental obstacle. What if I actually have to sparr my son? What if everyone laughs at me? What if I just can't do it?
I made the mistake of saying to my son "What if I were to do karate?" I can't say what reaction I expected but not the excitement I got. He was over the moon that I might do it with him.so much that he told his instructor, from there it was constant reminder from all that I needed to do it. Even though it was my idea I was not convinced. 
The second week into the new session and I was going to do it...I totally psyched myself out. I didn't do it but the Instructor had me try on a uniform, he wasn't giving up. I even tried to talk some of the other parents in to joining. I had two others moms that said they would try it the next week. 
The next week came and I was totally scared, nervous and excited all 
at once. One of my coworkers said he would come to watch, cheer me on and laugh. So glad he went because the two moms who talked about taking the class with me both not only backed out but didn't even stay to watch the class! My coworker tried it out with me though which made me feel so much better. He is about 15 years younger than me but it still eased my anxiety a bit. It was a fun first class. We both enjoyed it! My son loved having me in the class. It totally kicked my butt and helped me realize just how far out of shape I am but now I am doing something atleast once a week.
Planning to write more on my karate  journey! Thanks, Mel