One of the hardest parts of my Martial Arts Training this past month and a half has been retraining myself and forgeting the habits I developed learning Tae Kwon Do. Some of the differences are fundamental like the differences in stances, while others are more habitual like bouncing to stay on the balls of my feet when I spar.

We sparred again tonight. When we started I made a conscious effort to stop my bouncing by using a slightly longer, deeper stance. It was harder to move at first but as I became more comfortable with it my movements became easier. Sensei and Sempei were thrilled with my progress.

After class Sempei commended me on stronger punches and maybe one of the hardest hits he took from any of the students. He told me he could feel his ribs spread from the force of my punch. I might have thought he was patronizing me but the big smile on his face spoke volumes.

My entire sparring session was not perfect. A blow that I had intended for Sempei's shoulder had ended up hitting him in the mouth. I should have displayed better control and I am not pleased with myself for that. He agreed that I should have exhibited more control considering my past experience but he also noted that my lower stances which changed my attacking angle and the fact that he was bearing down on me also contributed to my bad blow.

This dojo is awesome. The students work so hard to support each other and make each other better. We all help each other and no one gives or takes criticism in any way but as constructive. Sensei pushes us hard and all we do is ask him to push us harder. He loves it. We love it.