Back to Basics

Fitness is of the utmost importance. A few years ago a Sensei, very traditionaly japanese, taught me that it is not only skill but fitness that drives advantage. What you lack in skill can be covered up by the frequency and athleticism. There is no restriction in your movements and thus, if you can not strick your opponent you can frequently moveout of the way until a clear opening presents itself.

I am resigned to my weights and cardio seeing as my ability to armor up is hampered by an unfortunately frequent necessity to visit cemetaries this month. Family first, but this doesn't hamper my ability to train on my own by systematically heading off my Squires challenge and hiking a few miles a day with the dogs.

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To Be a squire?

I was approached by a knight I sincerely respect to take up the mantle as his squire. While I can not ask for better, I must first step away from my Man-at-arms position to another knight.

The weather has turned cold, severely affecting my enthusiasm for suiting up in crappy weather at our outdoor covered practice sites. That quote "whatever doesn't kill you will make you stronger" is feeling a lot like one of those building character activities. I suppose my cardio and endurance will increase significantly but I foresee loads of silent grumbling on my part as well. I will resume practices as normal starting this week after a hiatus with family over this past weekend that was wrapped up with a memorial service down in California.

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slow and steady hits the pell

Off to a pals house for an evening of burgers, slow work and drills on the pell. The four of us did a few six point drills and discussed a few others like Sean's five point drill and speed rounds for other practices. Afterward we paired off for slow work changing partners after about five minutes to focus on control, form, tempo. I discovered a few bad habits like pulling my shield out of place and not returning my sword back to start. Small things but also something that can make a huge impact on the fight over all.

On a good note my back is alright albeit a little swollen and bruised. So long as I continue to use good form there is no ache. I've also a clear head now from the events of Tuesday night. The lessons I learn while training ring more true than they have before.

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