Starting the Incline

Tuesday was the first time I attended the Sihing class in almost a year. One thing that recently came back to my training is intensity, however during class I saw my technique was in need of major improvements. We were drilling kicks and working on bettering our numbers, but also how to work on pacing. As a collective we were averaging 30 kicks a minute consistently, almost 600 in a half hour with our pace slightly increasing at the end. My personal numbers were lower than I would like, but I see what needs to be worked on but as long as I keep working on my endurance and technique I will see my numbers increase.

On Saturday open training was packed with people and weapons. I spent a while working on my articulation and flow with staff work and when I switched to my sword I was able to find another block to add to my form. The last 15 minutes of mat time had a few pylon marked rings for sparring appear, and I was able to get my first 3 rounds of sparring for the year. I'm looking forward to many more rounds with Sifu Lindstrom so I can work on the holes in my guard.

The engagement at the meeting was great to see. I am really looking forward to all the demos and dances as this team seems like it will pull of one of, if not the best year of the I Ho Chuan yet. At the meeting I mentioned that I am going to a traditional Chinese swordsmanship seminar in Toronto during May. I will be learning techniques with the jian (one handed straight sword) and the miaodao (two handed saber) and hope to share all of the knowledge I bring back. I will be gone from May 12th to the 20th and because of this will be unable to attend Pandemonium, but I've already started planning on how I will still contribute to this very important event.