More beginners

A couple more beginners joined the class this week. Jun was the only graded person there, which is still a little disappointing, but he was a star and this helped the class run smoothly.

I am generally very pleased with the group we have. Most are very coordinated and learn quickly. Everyone seems comfortable with breakfalling and there has been very little unnecessary tension. From my point of view everyone seems to be enjoying the classes and some of the group have shown interest in attending extra sessions.

This week we looked at two new techniques, ushiro ate (rear throw) and ude gaeshi (arm fold). The first looks straight forward but can be rather difficult to execute, especially when uke is much taller than you. The second seems quite complicated, lots of arms, elbows and wrists involved but I feel is a more natural movement and comes easier.

Next week we will break from the syllabus and do something a bit more unusual for a change.