Had my second solo training sesh last night. I’m still working mainly on my stamina, flexibility and strength but I figured I might as well start learning a few basic punches/blocks/kicks. After warming up & meditating (I’m not sure how necessary this is for many styles but I find I’m really enjoying it), I downloaded an e book that is actually proving quite useful as it goes into a lot of detail to describe and break down some basic moves. It also has a summary of the names of all the different parts of the body I will be using in the language of the style. I’m going to see if I can find some other resources, dvd’s and other books so I can gain a better understanding of the correct stances & posture I should be using. Beyond that, my body is killing me - did I mention how unfit I was? It’s a good feeling though. Tired muscles are always a good sign! Still super psyched to be doing this.

Last night I started my journey. I am still rather unfit so I spent half an hour or so warming up and exercising/stretching. I’ve made a space for myself in the basement so I can be alone while I try this. I’m also keeping it from my family until I’ve stuck to it long enough that it’s even worth letting them know. For the time being it’s going to be something I keep to myself. I am motivated. I feel inspired. I’ve downloaded a tutorial video for Shotokan for beginners and I’m going to start watching it tonight. My plan is to spend an hour or so practicing it in the evenings and half an hour warming up/stretching in the mornings before I go to work. Hopefully this’ll help me loosen up and become fitter to try the more advanced work. Shotokan is the style I’m most interested in at the moment & I’ve found a class/gym that teaches it in Letterkenny so it’ll be possible to continue learning it when I start college again. I have quite a while to explore various styles before then though. I am so excited to do this.