I started class with Sensai Tony and Sensai Louise at the Templestowe dojo on Friday January 27th 2006. I had watched Karate lessons as my daughter started last year. The reason I got her started is because I wanted some structured activity, something that provided her with a place that promotes discipline, respect as well as listening skills and exercise.
The more I watched, the more interested I became and the more I thought I should do this myself.
I ended up asking Tony about adult classes as I wasn't even aware they did beginner adult classes. Anyway I joined up in December, bought a gi and was petrified walking into the dojo the first time. It was hard tying the belt myself on me. Much easier to tie it on my daughter
Everyone was really friendly and I didn't feel like a complete fool as there wer other new people joining too.
We started with a warm up and much to everyone's surprise I was able to do the side splitz and many of the stretches and leg work was very easy for me. I put this down to my 20 years of training in classical and modern ballet. Balance is also easy for me when we do exercises in slower motion.
That first lesson made me sweat!!! It was a great workout. Last year I was doing pilates but this shits all over that. Since August last year I have lost 35kg and intend to lose a little more and I am sure training 3 nights per week plus continuing on with my stair workouts at home - I do 2,800 stair climbs (we have 14 stairs in my house) on the days I am not doing Karate, 125 pushups, 125 tricep dips and 50 situps) I hope to lose all the weight I have gained in having my 3 children.
I have just learnt the 4 way pattern and am learning the first Kata. I seem to be ok doing it slowly but stuff it up when it comes to doing it at normal pace. I am sure I will get it eventually
- I hope.
I think I have rambled on enough. Right now I am really enjoying classes and I hope to continue for a very long time to come.
