Mine Oh Mine

It may come off as a little nuts to name your weapon and almost cherish it is a living breathing thing. But if you think about how much time you spend with this awesome piece of art that represents mayhem and destruction and how it can effect you in so many ways, it's pretty hard not too. They all have a history of course and most Kung Fu weapons originated from farming tools and such as to hide training, so there is a good chance your weapon is much much older than you. So always show respect to your elders.

As it's been said many times before, no matter what configuration of weapon you train with, it is an extension of yourself and your personal mechanics. Therefore, I see it as a very useful tool to gauge a number of factors in regards to stances, transitions, definition,etc. But when you have those really triumphant times, when you learn the whole form, and begin to improve after each rep, like 1000 of them, how can you not name it and appreciate the value and benefits of weapon training.

I have a rough form laid out with my axe that is something a bit different than I have done before. I still have some of the techniques I have used before but instead of them being an attack, they are more so utilized for transitions. This form has taken sometime and this is just the rough version. The final version definately needs some smoothing out and some additional blocks and techniques. That's the cool part about revisiting an old weapon form, it's an opportunity to evolve further and polish up some old tools, so to speak.

 But for me the best part about training with a weapon is putting your creativity to work and your thoughts to reality. I also find it to be quite therapeutic as many of us struggle with life from time to time and our training helps with this much. It's a nice escape and a tool for balance and calm. Like for example, when you get behind someone on your way home from work that thinks the passing lane on the highway is a safe space for idiots....I just don't get that. What better way to feel better about a aggravating situation than go practice with your weapon, its amazing what you can come up with and how much better you feel when your done.

I don't think there is any better feeling than being outside on a nice sunny day or a nice warm evening practicing with a weapon though and taking your Kung Fu to greater heights. Plus it's much easier and less harmful than being inside or slipping around on the ice and snow. I had a bit of a struggle this year with the ability to train in the garage or basement. I only smashed a few things in the process though.... and only put a few new scars in the garage ceiling....and maybe only two slash/dents on the garage door. I see it as the price for progress and training with a long weapon. I've only been hit a few times and tore a couple of shirts but this is a good way to insure proper technique and good optics to troubleshooting. But for the most part, MINE is behaving quite well and I think we will have another good year as we bond on the imaginary battle field. See you at the Kwoon