How I did it: I don't think you can claim to have learned a martial art, because you never stop learning.  What I meant by checking off this goal was that I finally found an awesome teacher with whom I could begin training.

I've wanted to study kung fu for years but never found a teacher.  The dream lingered for four years.

Then out of the blue, I met two people studying with this kung fu master whose school is thirty minutes from me.  I called the school for more info and the sifu and I spent the next two days playing telephone tag.  Once we finally connected, we started talking about my past history with martial arts and what my goals were, and I asked him what he was seeking in a student.

Paydirt!

Lessons & tips: Finding an excellent teacher is how you start.

Decide on what form of fighting you want to study and shop around.  Google is your friend.  Be prepared to travel (wisdom and mentorship are worth the extra distance).  Talk about your goal to everyone around you; you never know who can direct you to a good teacher.

A good teacher will ask you about your reasons for pursuing this training and what your goals are.  You want a symbiotic working relationship, as this person will be your guide, so open communication is a must.

Patience is important.  Your training is a long-term investment in yourself.  Put your ego to the side, because you will screw up, get sore, ocassionally look like a doofus.  It's all good.

Practice outside of class.  You can't, you say?  Really?  You don't need to wax on, wax off - it's pretty easy to practice lotus pose while you play video games.

Okay, maybe not easy, but it's doable.  And it'll improve your stance for the next class.

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Nov 24, 2008, 12:49PM PST | 0 comments | 3 cheers