Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Creativity

Yesterday, during the transition from the advanced class to beginner, our head instructor made the recommendation that everyone try to be more creative when rolling. It's a bit beyond my comprehension as a white belt, but the concept really stuck in my head. Like anything else though, I'm guessing that it's something that's best practiced after you learn the rules.

I've noticed my shrimping is slower on my left side, so I focused on it, one-legged, and left my right side alone. It made some issues more clear. Not only am I weaker, but I'm less coordinated. Thinking back to sparring yesterday, when I'm pinned on my left side, I feel more stuck and like I have fewer options.

I've been about a week without working on the stability ball and getting back on it today was good. I actually feel more steady on it after the time off. Whatever I pulled on the top of my left foot when I first started has started bothering me again and I'm guessing it's no coincidence that I got rolled back on it last night. I need to spend more time stretching out my feet before class. I'm also noticing some weakness in my left shoulder while doing bridging drills. I think that comes from the bodyweight program just like my loss in knee flexibility. I'm going to leave that (the bodyweight) alone for a couple of weeks and see what happens. Kind of sucks though, since I have so few options for cardio...stupid knees.

I'm starting a new pushup program! It involves starting in plank position, lowering yourself as far as you can, and holding it until you drop, eight times. I'm going to try it 3-4 times a week. Now to think of a way to explain the 8 consecutive thuds to my coworkers...

2 comments:

A.D. McClish said...

I also fail at the creativity. I am too busy trying to remember the basics!! But one thing my instructor always tells me is don't be afraid to try things, even if you aren't sure of the position. If you get your guard passed or get submitted, who cares? You might find that you can do more than you thought!! :)

Megan said...

So, so true. Honestly, being a white belt, it's kind of nice not being expected to know exactly the best path you're supposed to take. You have more opportunity to try things with less expectation of success.