My blood donation ended an hour before class. Because of that I took it easy on the push-ups and tried not to work my arm too much. Other than that it went well. Today’s class consisted mostly of punching and kicking drills and sparring practice. We learned some new techniques that I am sure were more about street fighting than karate, but I don’t know enough yet to be sure about this. As I expected, the Shihan adjusted his expectations (or seemed to) towards Marilyn and I because we are just orange belts. You can’t help but like him for that, ha ha.
Tsumura Shihan seemed very nice and showed wisdom and humor, I think. He was very laid back and friendly while still looking the Master Shihan in control and whom you’d better respect. I don’t know him at all but he seems to be what I would expect a great martial arts teacher to be. I’ll get to know him a little better in tomorrow’s and Saturday’s classes. People were photographing all through the class and after the class there was a group photo and a presentation of a certificate to Sensei Mario who is with the Edmonton Police Service. The Shihan brought some people with him with whom I am unfamiliar but I expect they are assistant instructors at the Shihan’s Toronto dojo. One who seemed to be sort of second in command was named Mike, but other than that I haven’t a clue who they were.
Tomorrow’s class will be more about kata and the Bo. I’m looking forward to that.