Hey guys!

[Withers M.A.A.]

I would just say take it day by day. Try to gradually build your strength and stamina and work harder and harder. It will take a little time but you will get there.

 

Good luck,

 

Pete

[karate_woman]

Just wondering when 3 months became a "long" absence

 

I just came off a 2 year absence, which included having a baby December 28, 2002. I noticed I lost a lot of strength and have also had to review everything. I'm still in the process of regaining what I lost, though I must say my muscles, kata and basics are coming along nicely after the two months I have been back. I think at this rate I'll be up to snuff and even improving the new katas within another 2-4 months.

 

I'm not sure why you lost the weight, but it sounds like you lost muscle like I did, so my suggestion would be to push yourself, but not to the point of injury or anything. 3 months is not that long and I doubt you've forgotten much - a simple review of any rusty skills should be sufficient to refresh your memory. As for your strength and endurance, if you do the techniques a bit slower at first to accomodate your physical conditioning at least you will be doing them correctly and working on the details, and you'll find your strength improves gradually the whole time. Your Sensei should insist on you taking it easy for a while, but if they aren't aware of the situation, you could just let them know privately. Mine always makes a point of telling people who've just come back to take it easy - in front of the class - then nobody wonders why you are "slacking". One thing is certain: you won't get any stronger just thinking about it, so training is the way to go Good luck!