Jeremy fought hard for his blue belt on Friday night. The week before, Jamison was in his place, earning her green belt. They had to re-grade after falling just short of the passing mark a few weeks back.

Chris accepted no excuses. For every mistake, they paid for it with conditioning exercises. Every time they dropped their guard, there were push ups; every time they straighten their knees, there were squats. They had to repeat every technique until Chris was satisfied that every detail was correct. Exhausted, their focus waivering, sweat dripping in to their eyes, the temptation to wipe off that bead of sweat would mean more punishing exercises or starting all over again. They pushed past pain, pushed past exhaustion, and finished strong.

Both kids found out what it took to achieve 100% during a grading. Their new belts represents a new level of expectations. They delivered beyond what they thought they were capable, so their realm of possibilities have increased. That change, although isn’t tangible, is very powerful. As I watched them leave the dojo, it’s like they’ve grown several centimetres. The pride eminating from their parents expressed it well.

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Regardless of how we may feel about kids with weapons, it’s a reality. It’s something we have to deal with rather than ignore because it’s uncomfortable.

We hosted our very first Kids’ Weapons Defence Seminar yesterday, and the attendance and feedback indicated that many parents felt it’s important for their kids to learn this aspect of martial arts; and the kids demonstrated that they were capable of being respectful and understanding of the dangers involved.

Weapons classes at our academy are currently restricted to 13yrs+. We need to consider lowering the age limit, as the incidents involving weapons and younger kids are increasing. Our intention is to focus on defence, however, part of learning defence is knowing how to handle a weapon, so the lines will easily blur. Due to this, having a minimum rank requirement will also be wise. Weaponry will not be part of the kids’ curriculum. Instead, it will be an optional component to their training and parents will make the choice for their child/ren.

There are many schools that teach weaponry. What are the rules there? What’s your opinion on this?

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My heart broke to see Jeremy cry… a little boy, angry and disappointed with himself. But before leaving, he wiped off the tears, strode across the mat and shook hands with all the instructors, earning the applause which followed.

We mistakenly awarded Jamison her belt and had to tell her afterwards that she didn’t make the grade. Although she could keep her new belt, she was still required to do a re-grade. When she walked in to class tonight, she handed me her green belt and her certificate, stating “I don’t want it until I’ve earned it.” I was stunned by the maturity of the gesture.

There were many things we could’ve done better, and how we go about doing so, is being discussed amongst the team. However, there were also many important lessons learnt from this experience… one of them being:

Everybody falls; but only few manage to do so with grace.

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Someone noticed… and it’s the best high.

“I’d like to say how much I enjoy training with Martial Journey and seeing how organised all aspects of the business are. I love it so much that I travel 100km on a return trip just to train. I love Chris‘s teaching style and the balance of fitness, tradition, discipline and self defence he provides. I love how you’re providing opportunities for students to become instructors and I especially love your engagement with families and young kids and the work you do to keep them on board. Martial Journey is an amazing martial arts school and you guys are unreal every day of the week!”

The thing is, we’ve been getting an amazing run with positive feedback lately. It’s like getting that sugar hit when you need it most; I’m totally buzzed.

At the end of last week, one of our mums was estatic to share the news that her son received a sticker at school for good listening. This is a boy who was diagnosed with borderline Asperger’s and listening or concentrating was not a strong trait. It’s been barely a term, and she’s noticed huge improvements in his attention span. But mostly, she’s excited that he has found something he is passionate about and understands goal setting and perserverence.

Today, a new parent told me that her husband is not someone who’s easily impressed. However, after the trial class her young son attended on Saturday, her husband raved about our school, the class, and the staff.

Another mum stopped to tell me how great it was to receive the report about her sons’ progress. She knew it’s a new initiative, as she didn’t receive one in previous years, and wanted me know that it’s a keeper.

On top of all that, we have team members coming in to work after having a bad day… sometimes a bad week… and reported that being at the dojo lifts them up.

It’s nice having icing on the cake.

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On the day, we were amazed to see so many mums on the mat. We ran 3 classes, and in one of those classes we struggled to find enough mat space!

The classes were structured so the kids were partnered with their mums, and they were responsible for showing and teaching their mums. Warm ups and games were thrown in to ensure plenty of fun and giggles. We had mums with varying fitness levels, but all were great sports and showed they’re no pushovers.

I was in the micro ninjas class with both my children, and we had awesome fun. I deliberately stuffed up my stances and techniques, seeing if they would pick up the mistakes. They lapped up the chance to show me how things were properly done.

The dojo was buzzing with energy and laughs all morning. To top it off, we were getting feedback like “It was so much fun”, “I actually learnt something”, “Can’t wait for fathers’ day”, “We loved it”… it was wonderful.

To know that we may have given them a moment to share and remember in years to come… it totally made OUR day

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Students young and old were treated to games at the start and end of class. This year, we motivated them with Easter eggs. It’s a little thing, but we were able to get them to work harder and still think it’s fun.

The highlight for me was towards the end of the night.

We had two adults classes running simultaneously; Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in the main training area, and Issei Ryu Bujutsu on the mezzanine level. Five minutes before the end of class, we started raining Easter eggs down on the BJJ students, who were bewildered for a moment. Then we sent the Issei Ryu students downstairs to fight for their share. When the eggs were all gone, they bowed out together, on the same mat, with both instructors.

It was wonderful to see the students hang back and socialise together; all students learning from the same place, not as seperate groups. We will definitely continue to foster more interactions between students of the various styles; as mutual support, respect, and understanding are all part of our culture.

It was rewarding to close up shop on a high note.

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The students stood in lines; adults at the back, kids at the front. Families watched from our viewing deck. Instructors took their positions. Then, magic happened.

I watched as tiny little preschoolers kept pace with students decades older. I watched seasoned martial artists humbled. I watched as our team pushed them to their limits, and then pushed them even further. I saw the defiant glares, I heard the laboured breathing, I could almost feel their pain.

I was awed when the yellow belts took on the optional challenge and dive rolled over an obstacle roughly chest high. I grinned when the young purple belts stood their ground and did not fall for the trick command. I swelled with pride and admiration when Emily and Jason shouted support at each other and pulled through the gruelling exercises. I pleaded with Jess not to stop when she thought she had nothing more to give.

When it was all over, with the heavy smell of sweat lingering in the air, I got to see them stride off the mat, as giants.

I will never tire of the privilege.

My five year old daugther graded that day for her purple belt. She got a nosebleed from the heat and somehow grazed her ankle, but she got back on that mat and earned that belt. Purple is her favourite colour, so it was extra special.

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We discussed this at our weekly staff campfire, and it triggered emotive responses. We’ve been adjusting to many changes, new procedures and responsibilities which comes with operating a full time dojo. However, we need to take a step back and get back to basics.

Positive reinforcement

Focusing on the positives is a powerful way to build confidence. It also shows the student you’re noticing, and it encourages them to want to work harder just so they will be rewarded with more positive feedback.

Keeping promises

We have to be a lot more careful about what is promised; even the small stuff. “Keep practising those kicks. I’ll test you next week.” If it doesn’t happen, the student will easily loose motivation to practise anything. Why should they keep their end of the bargain if we don’t?

Share the passion

At intermediate level, things get harder. There’s a lot more to learn. We’re tougher on our students and have higher expectations, but we must also remember to show them that the fun level is ramped up too. Things are just getting exciting. Soon they’ll be doing dive rolls and jump kicks, all the cool stuff. We have to share our excitement and show them why we love it.

Make time

Take the time to chat to parents and students. Trust has to be earned. If they’re comfortable discussing any issues they may be having early on, we may offer guidance or options for consideration.

. . .

Your input:
What drew you to martial arts in the first place? Why you love it? What have you gotten out of it? Share with us your more memorable training session/s… we’ll love to hear from you.

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“2010 is predicted to be a tumultuous year, but the Tiger’s influence will offer us courage, while inviting bold actions and risk taking. The Metal element will provide steely resolve, fortitude and determination to accomplish goals.”

I feel like I’ve run a marathon. It has been such an incredible couple of weeks. But you know what? Bring it!

Following Open Day

The week following our Open Day, we hosted 22 new trialers! That’s definitely a record for us. It’s also an indication of how busy we were.

Recruiting Amanda and Emily as student support staff definitely paid off. Even with minimal training, they were able to take the role and run with it. It certainly helped my sanity. Despite all the traffic coming and going at the dojo, we’re on top of things: tabs on students, trialers, follow ups, dojo duties. Timing-wise, it was perfect.

Footy pre-season training

The Glen Orden Footy Team booked 1.5hrs of customised fitness training through our Academy. When they rocked up on Wednesday, the team huddled outside, may be a little bit uncertain. When they left that day, they were drenched in sweat with massive grins on their faces.

Chris and Joel delivered a pretty brutal training session, working on cardio, strength, balance, reflexes, and teamwork. It’s a decent achievement to survive it.

The feedback was great. The boys loved it. They were a newly formed team, and it helped them connect. They’re keen to do further training throughout the year.

Mission accomplished

Safety Awareness Week

This week, we hosted our Safety Awareness programmes.

In the adults classes, we covered “carjacking scenarios” as it’s a topical issue. I can only guess at what passerbys thought when they saw the class is progress in the carpark area

We tackled “anti-bullying” in the kids classes. We sat them down for a mat chat, and followed up with some evasive techniques.

As they were serious topics, it seems almost inappropriate that students were smiling, but they were. They were beaming. That’s what I look for, and every time I see it, it re-affirms why we do what we do. We’re a positive force in our students’ lives… that’s HUGE.

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We had our very first open day at our new dojo on Saturday. Based on past experiences and conversations with other martial arts schools, the results of open days vary and are unpredictable.

This year, we decided to keep things simple. We ran our usual classes, and allocated a couple of hours during which the public may tour our dojo.

With the assistance of a parent, who happens to be a former journalist, I sent out press releases to advertise the event. A couple of local papers ran the story. We recruited volunteers to act as tour guides on the day. Families helped spread the word. Then we waited.

People started trickling in even before the commencement time of 10am. When the dust settled at the end of the day, we had 25 contacts on our guest list and over 50% of them booked a trial on the spot.

It was a much greater result than we hoped, and it was beautiful watching our ‘village’ in motion. We had all hands on deck; volunteers jumping in as they’re needed; parents putting in a good word here and there; and helping hands everywhere keeping my kids out of trouble. We had a lot of positive feedback that day, and it made us super proud of what we have.

It was a big week for us, not just due to the open day, but also because:

• We’re formally recruiting 4 more staff members to the team.
• Due to the success of the BJJ classes, we’re adding an open mat class on Saturdays.

On a personal note:

Our baby girl started prep this week. I’ve had to go through the early stages of letting go as a parent… along with many other parents. I feel like I’ve done some growing up too.

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