It's been a few days since Saturday's sparring class and I find my self still rubbing my sore hand. Pain aside, the lesson is a good one: don't keep your fingers extended when blocking a kick. My Sabumnin has repeatedly emphasized in classes that we need to keep our hands clenched into a fist when sparring and he should know since he is a former member of the US National Team.
Yet, sometimes the best instructor is experience itself. You can have it all in your head but the real test is when it all comes down to real action. Bad habits become very apparent whether it is in the ring or on the street.
I think we all tend to get a mindset that says "oh man, not again" when it comes down to repetive training, doing the same things over and over again and getting critiqued on form. However, these are the times to refine our methods and skill. Combat is fluid, to be sure, but the basics are not. If your kicks are sloppy and not controlled, you will find yourself on the losing end. If your blocks are weak and sloppy, your opponent will overwhelm you.
Listen to and watch your teachers. Don't think you know it all. Keep your mouth shut and your eyes open. They wear the black belt because they have been tested in the crucible of experience. It is to your benefit to draw from
that experience.
