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For my first post - as I have no Aikido background - I thought I should talk about what my personal experience is regarding the martial arts and the japanese culture. This is a simple story of love at first sight. I have always been interested in the martial arts, ever since I was a kid. Wuxia movies, samurai, dragons, the works.
When I was about twelve years old, my first martial experience was Goju-Ryu Karate. I did it for two years, but found it a bit boring. Later on, by the time I was twenty-one, I searched for Aikido in my home town, tried a few classes, but never found a decent dojo. Years later, I managed to get involved with my country's small Kendo association and had lots of fun. I still can't decide wether Aikido or Kendo is my favorite martial art. Anyway, since then I had some trouble with my work schedule, I have put Kendo on hold and have now found a very good Aikido dojo. I've started training about two months ago and am currently having a blast.
Throughout the years, I have tried to get an idea for just about every martial art, from Capoeira to Jeet Kune do, Taekwondo or Kali. I have decided on Kendo and Aikido as a very deliberate choice and have luckily not been disappointed. Right now, I don't want to be training in anything else.
Regarding japanese culture, I am getting to know it better as I get older. I like the cinema, some books, some manga/anime, I have tried to learn the language and I play Go (Utte Gaeshi is a Go concept). I admire their love and talent for the most simple and beautiful things.
Other things about me: I am a web designer, I play the guitar and sometimes I like to write (which explains how you are reading this).
From this point onward, this blog will echo my thoughts as a beginner. Wish me luck as I take my first aiki-steps.
P.S.: This weekend, I'll be attending my first Aikido seminar. Two full days with Takeji Tomita Sensei! I will certainly have something to write about.
03-28-2008 02:58 PM 