The second formal class of the year using my new teaching format for each class.
Ilustrisimo Sword
We reviewed one of the most important lessons, Elastico Retirada, which is about controlling the measure and setting up your opponent so that you can cut without being cut. I had taught the top angles of the hourglass the week before, so this week, we reviewed countering the Aldabes, which are uppercut-like motions with the sword.
By the end of the class, the defender could counter diagonal and horizontal cuts to both sides, and we moved to a random feed. I am really pleased with the progress, and my teaching method has improved immensely due to my research trip to Spain.
One of the main benefits of this beautiful and ultra-efficient system is the study of sword and dagger; turbo changes your knife defence. We are unlikely to have to engage in sword vs sword in real life, but knife crime is rife in our area of London, and a few of us have already had to use our skills.
KORA Class
I continued with our Contract Management module, and we looked at controlling the measure, verbally loopholing out of trouble, and, if that fails, taking further action. I showed our secret to overwhelming physical attackers and how to escape the scene.
Fence work and threat assessments are skills that most do not practice often or even upkeep. It is a simple skill set that must be cultivated often to be successful.
Pencak Silat Class
Last week, I taught basic body mechanics for striking, and this week, I added footwork, teaching the two modes of footwork. We then combined both toolboxes. Once you develop the ability to hit hard, you need to be able to move to set up your opponent so they run onto your strikes. You create a collision which triples your power.
Summary
The 55-minute classes are working well and are culturing the right mindset. Having a five-minute break between classes allows the student to rest. Starting with the absolute basics and building on those foundations is working well.
This year, I am targeting our footwork for improvement and looking to improve that in each class. However, the main focus for improvement will be our attitude under pressure and skill set delivery.
The classes are fun and safe, with progressive resistance to build real skills.
Killick Off Road Arts 