Journey to a new style...

[_Simon_]

I'm kind of facing a similar situation, though for me it's really just life that has been limiting my amount of dojo time. Like you, I also push myself to train at home but I have felt a little demoralized because I have not made it to the dojo as much as I want to. I still have the drive and I think maybe it's just a phase. Maybe you just need a little break Simon so you can reset mentally. I can definitely see people getting burned out in MA or losing interest but you seem like you are very passionate about it. So maybe you just need a little break so you can reevaluate and take some time. I'm sure you will be back in the swing of things soon enough my friend.

Thank you, that makes perfect sense actually. It's possible I'm trying to pile on too much (not only expectation, but the thought that increasing training elsewhere will make that feeling go away) and force motivation, perhaps taking a step back would help.. appreciate that, hope you figure things out soon too

 

[_Simon_]

Don’t be too hard on yourself. It’s ok to take a break.

I'll admit, I teared up at that. Obviously hit something deep in me, thank you

 

[_Simon_]

A good sensei can provide these things, but they are rare. This may be a good time to forget adding new things and work on depth. You say you've discovered things on your own - good! Keep on this path. Discover the nuances of hip motion, spring from your legs, relaxation for speed and new body feel. Do your moves a bit differently each time experimenting with these elements.



Conditioning you can do on your own - get creative. Work on tactics, practice combos that feel good to you till they become spontaneous. Visualize an opponent and how he might react and possible counters. Read Motobu (and other masters) and get some idea of old-style karate fighting strategy.

This is worthless training. As has been said by others see things as a beginner. Instead of doing reps 1 ,2, 3, 4..., approach it as 1, 1, 1, 1... doing each one as if it's the first.

Don't stress over things. Keep it enjoyable, or at least interesting.

Thank you, all great thoughts. Yeah I think part of that seeking depth is in trusting myself. I've been able to discover a great deal this way. I'm training at home today soon so will explore a bit, thank you!

 

[_Simon_]

Did some training, felt okay. Went for a run around the big lake nearby, visited the geese and their babies. Did some shadowsparring just feeling the flow and enjoying the movement.

Bagwork, 6 rounds alternating 2min rounds more focused on combos, flow and footwork; and 30s all out full power rounds.

Sanchin, Naifunchi Shodan and Tensho katas, along with a few others. Felt really lost and empty after this and couldn't really do much more, but did a little extra movement. Strangely drawn to Seisan kata which I did after I was officially finished. Lots of really fascinating varied dynamics in that one I've been exploring...

Felt good to move and sweat. Feel a little clearer, or more at ease with not being clear haha.