This week I managed to get to school 4 days (3 intermediate classes, one basic and the new masters' class). During the basic class we worked on the 5 element fist and the iron body form. This was my second try at the metal and wood element of the 5 element fist and it seemed a little easier to grasp. By no means is it an easy concept but with practice it will feel more natural! This is my second rotation of iron body and Trainee Instructor Sydney is very helpful with her expertice. I'm focusing on a deeper horse stance and watching my index finger while I press "10,000 pounds."

In the intermediate classes we are working on the snake long form. we saw the short form last rotation and it helped to be familiar with the stomach rolls. One challenge for me with snake will be to not pick up my heel. I am a track coach and have to constantly tell the athletes to sprint on their toes. that feeling of connectedness with the earth is important in snake. I'm also trying to figure out how to "lift and press." My left hand (since we are doing the right side) doesn't seem to turn palm down very easily.

The masters' section of the intermediate class introduced cannon fist (a concept from long fist). During the self defense portion, I'm struggling with the out-block after the in-block, down-block. In doing the form it feels like I make a clockwise circle but during self-defense I can't seem to block the right-punch. I only had one class with it and I'm sure it will make more sense after the next class.

I admit that I miss the weapons class. It was a nice break from the regular curriculum and asked our bodies to move in new ways. We also had to extend our focus all the way down a weapon (mentally challenging us). Not to mention that when Instructor Gable from Needham led the conditioning, I was feeling a serious burn! He challenged us physically in new ways!

The Masters' Class is a great way to deepen and sharpen the knowledge we have of the 108. We started with Poison Hands. We are quickening our reflexes and becoming ninja fast! So I'll miss the weapons but be a better Martial Artist with this training.