First midterm between 2nd and 3rd dan last weekend

[Aodhan]

Well, I passed my midterm (Barely) on Saturday. In between 2nd and 3rd dan, we have 3 midterms (One every six months).

This midterm consisted of 3 2 minute rounds of free sparring, philosphy of the form, form demonstration, weapons form and breaking. Breaking almost cost me this time around.

Had the breaks of upset hammerfist, and #3 (Lead leg completes kick) jump axe kick. Was using black rebreakable boards, theoretically comparable to 2.5 1" pine boards.

Broke the hammer fist fine, on the first attempt at the axe kick, one of my holders lost his grip (I hit slightly off center, death on a rebreakable), and I dropped my axe kick right in the middle of his thigh (Holders were on one knee...I left a good sized bruise, anyway ). Next kick I was irritated at my original holder and wasn't paying attention, last attempt I went through it easily.

Had to demonstrate the break again in class last night, broke both boards first attempt. Later this week I have to demonstrate random lower belt forms and do my instruction segments, but I don't see any problems with that.

Goals: Next month I test for my black/red/black collar, and then in October/November I test for my full black collar (Fully certified instructor in the ATA), and take my second midterm. Woohoo!!

Aodhan

[EternalRage]

poor guy... least u didn't smash his fingers

[karate_woman]

Broke the hammer fist fine, on the first attempt at the axe kick, one of my holders lost his grip (I hit slightly off center, death on a rebreakable), and I dropped my axe kick right in the middle of his thigh (Holders were on one knee...I left a good sized bruise, anyway ).

Ouch! Wonder if he'll be volunteering to hold a board for you anytime soon !

Congrats.

[scottnshelly]

Congratulations, keep us updated on your progress.

Broke the hammer fist fine, on the first attempt at the axe kick, one of my holders lost his grip (I hit slightly off center, death on a rebreakable), and I dropped my axe kick right in the middle of his thigh (Holders were on one knee...I left a good sized bruise, anyway ). Next kick I was irritated at my original holder and wasn't paying attention, last attempt I went through it easily.

They should give lessons on board-holding. There's always one guy in the group that bends his elbows, falls backwards or puts his fingers in the way. I tell you what...

[Kicks]

Glad to hear you passed this test. Good luck on the rest of your testing.

[Sam]

Good luck with the next one and congratulations!!!

[ranger1100ky]

Congratulations on the midterm!

I have to admit... rebreakable boards, back in the day, when I was a teen, were about a joke... they were either TOO hard to break, compared to a 'standard' pine board... or, they fell apart at the least provocation.

For my money... I'd just as soon use good ole fashioned pine boards.

I haven't yet had the chance to 'play' with the new 'rebreakables' that the ATA uses, though I did see them on the ATA site. I'll be very interested to see how they perform.

Perhaps if all goes 'well' and I find myself able to follow up on my intent to resume my formal training... I'll get a chance to try out the new rebreakables live and on 'ATA' time.

Good luck on your next testings!