Boxing Day

Boxing Day, is being celebrated right now in Canada.  But here in the US, it’s just the day to return stuff, if you’re lucky enough to get the day off. 

Boxing is definitely something I’d like to train in.  At least a year under a high level instructor.  Kickboxing and Muay Thai are also desirable, but the sparring would have to be very light and controlled.  I’ve known some good strikers over the years and each has shown me a few things.  But I never really dedicated myself to learning that aspect of the fight game.  Perhaps it’s time.

The teacher appears when the student is ready.  I’ve been too focused on BJJ to be entertain the thought of anything else, even though there were a plethora of high level instructors for striking in San Diego.  Heading into 2007, this may be just the kind of cross training I need. 

It’s important to really investigate your teacher before dedicating yourself to their way of training.  Julio Toribio, Roy Harris:  these are great men of exceptional skill.  Not only can they verify their own martial prowess, they can pass on those skills to others.  Their verbal transmission abilities are very high.  They’ve been through the hard training and know which parts of it were beneficial, and which just lead to injury.  They can take you to where you want to go, if you’re dedicated enough. 

Dedication is crucial, but it’s the clear direction the teacher steers the student in that elevates them to a whole ‘nother level.  You will not surpass their ability to guide you.  That is one of the qualities to look for in a teacher.  And not everyone makes the grade.