Open Mind

I spent my night opening my mind to another martial art.  It was an interesting night. First they practice conditioning, which to say was like exercising.  But there were some differences. Then we practiced some techniques that were similar to military tactics mixed with judo. I stayed open to some of their ideas and movements, although I wouldn't do mostly any of those things in real life. What I really liked is that on one half of the gym (not really a gym, more like a very small basketball court) there was a guy teaching fundamentals of kung fu to some new students on the other half was us, but everyone were friends. After training, they all wanted to see what martial art I studied.  I brought a stick, sword and two knives from America with me to train with, so I brought them there last night. I moved around with a knife with another kung fu practitioner. Then we moved around with the stick against sword.  That is when I realized that the kung fu practitioner had no control with a stick.  Needless to say I got hit hard on my wrist.  I think that it is the hardest I've ever been hit with a stick, but what was even better is that it didn't phase me at all.  I didn't notice until the end of the night. Then I did some free empty handed movement to show different styles. Everyone was very impressed. It was a strange feeling for me. I've never been in a situation where people haven't seen the martial art I do.  They said that some of the knife movement reminded them of a knife art from Naples.  Which makes me want to explore to see what that looks like. It was nice to train with people again.  Even though they study different arts.  I like that they respect you and honor what works for you. It was so nice.  On Wednesday there is a different training night.  I am thinking about going.