There are numerous reasons to train in jujitsu. Some, like self-defense and fitness, are obvious. Others, like gaining mental toughness and camaraderie, are more subtle. One that new student Michael (nickname to be determined) and I were recently discussing is that, without fail, you will find yourself laughing, at least once, during the course of a class. It might just be at your own foibles but often it's something said during the training or related rolls. Examples from the past couple classes:
Mega Chris (immediately after being choked out by Sempai Ryan): I could feel myself being put to sleep.
Myself: Sempai Ambien.
Sensei (while demoing a one-handed kesa hold as Sempai Ryan worked to escape): He's pretty scooty.
Myself to Michael (while rolling with Michael): Position before submission. And don't keep banging your head against the wall.
Sensei to Michael (after Michael caught one in the mouth): How are your teeth? Are they loose or just bleeding?
Myself to Special Ed (as he 'attacked' me with a club as we practiced Club - Osoto Gari): You're attacking me with a club - not handing me a candle.
Special Ed: I've never attacked anyone with a club before.
Sensei to myself (after the first roll we've had in a long time due to his knee surgery): The good news for you is that my stamina is still not there. The bad news for you is that my knee feels fine.
I'd call that last quote a forewarning.
It was very nice to be back in the dojo on Thursday and Saturday after missing a couple classes due to a schedule conflict and the flu. The classes were well-attended and the training was a nice variety of group instruction, working with new students, practicing the high charts and getting in some rolls. As I went with Osoto Gary today, I knew that technique and experience are definitely king. On a level playing field in these areas, I assume that Osoto Gary would overwhelm me with his size and strength. Having about a year longer in the dojo currently gives me enough of an advantage (although that lessens with each week) to manage him most times. It's a testament to the technique that this is possible.
On Thursday, I got viciously choked out by Mega Chris (on a clock choke) but held my own the next time around. Today, I rolled with Sensei for a long while before he put me away with a heel hook. Joel and I traded tapouts. I caught him on basically a mount/tatsumaki and he answered with a kesa/kesa garami.
Looking forward to the UFC tonight. Maybe Nate Diaz will submit Clay Guida. That would make my night.
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