June1

Interesting I should stumble across this thread. 2 classes ago, I asked another sensei at my dojo how long it took to gain a black belt, and he replied that it takes about 4-6 years. I thought it was 3... Oh, well.

I always, always practice at home. It's actually how I aroused suspicion among one of my classmates when my Heian Nidan suddenly became so good. *cough*consultedawebsite*cough* I train 3 times a week for about 45 minutes. It's definitely not enough for me. As soon as it's summertime and I have more free time, I'm going 4 times a week.

To quote Homer Simpson: "Hit 'em anywhere that's soft and run like hell!" Um... you may not want to heed that advice, actually. Technique is extremely important, let's not forget.

Check your private messages, Corpand!

ang_soo_do_guy, the temple is a very sensitive area. If you are hit hard enough, you could die (not to scare you, or anything. I mean like a baseball hitting you square in the temple). I think I'm a mild (okay, maybe moderate ) hypochondriac, so I would suggest that you go and get yourself checked out, just in case. Hope everything is well!

I've heard many times that it's important to let your muscles rest for at least a day or two in order to repair themselves, thereby increasing in mass, becoming bigger and stronger. If you don't allow them rest, you can hurt yourself (e.g., stress injuries). In your case, it sounds like you're fine, but the Aikido on Wednesday is what might strain you unnecessarily. I'm not saying that you should stop going, but maybe in order to compensate for the extra day, you could try to get some extra rest in between classes.

My sensei always warned me about this, as I would do the same thing. It's hard to stop yourself from hyperextending, as the punch should be powerful, but to help, try to create a small bend in the elbow. It shouldn't be very pronounced, but should definitely be there. Practice, practice, practice!

It sounds like things were completely out of control at your dojo. I don't think I would've waited for so many things to happen before thinking about leaving. I think it's important to find another dojo that you feel comfortable in, and that is much more welcome and safe. Seriously, what sensei "draws" a student into a fight? I wish you good luck in finding a place that nurtures your MA needs!

Could it be the climate or the sea level affecting you? Hmm... You could try sleep-inducing herbal teas, breathing/relaxation techniques, working out or running during the day, waking up really early to make yourself tired for nighttime, warm milk before bed, reading before bed, watching boring shows, etc. Hope this helps!

I agree. Keep going to class, but go at your own pace. The same thing happened to me... it takes a while to get better. Use R.I.C.E. Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. It really, really helps. Carefully test how high you can kick every so often, but go slowly. You don't want to aggravate the injury... like I did when I pulled my groin.

Just taking a stab at it: October 6, 1980?

No. LOL. But there have been times where, in a classroom, I'd raise my hand only to forget what I was going to say seconds after.

Don't use a bo as a javelin and hurl it randomly.

That sounds great! Is it tasty?

Sorry to hear your experiences with this MA were so sour at first. Glad you're finding things more pleasant now. Keep kicking!

It's an acquired taste. I loathed it when I first tried it. Months later, I needed energy fast and decided to give it another chance. Strangely enough, I liked it from the first sip of that can! I guess my taste buds evolved (or de-evolved, in some people's eyes ).

Like a drug, I say... A DRUG! ^-^

Are you serious? Buses, too???

That's wild!!! What are the chances?

Strawberry?! *drool* That sounds awesome. I think we probably have them here in Canada, but I guess I've never really looked. *race to nearest convenience store*

That is awesome, Kev!!! I'm so glad karate is better for you now. Go into the dojo with that upbeat attitude every time and amazing things will happen!! Good job!

As you can see underneath my name... Karate (Shotokan)!!! I plan to study other martial arts though. Maybe Tai Chi or another form of karate.

Non-alcoholic: Iced tea, and my newest addition, Red Bull Alcoholic: Bailey's (though I barely ever drink)

... Ur weird. J/K. I'm straight, so there's no need to have to "move" to guys.. I'm there!

I don't smoke, but my parents used to. My dad smoked heavily for probably 40+ years, and last year, he quit cold turkey. He's been clean ever since. He went through mood swings and some weight gain, but he's fine. My mom used to smoke maybe 2 cigs a day, but quit like, 6 days ago. It was about time... To those who are trying to quit, hang in there! Willpower all the way!