First Karate Training

Yesterday, after a successful workday, I trained for the first time at the local Shotokan Karate lesson. Because the training time is 18:30 – 21:00, I expected a kids class and was not sure if the training would match my needs. Well, it was a kids class and the kids where between 5 and 15, but I was the lowest rang in the room. All of them were black or brown belt (even the 5 year olds), and they were freaking good. The team kata of 3 6-year old boys was near to perfect, next time I go there I will make a video and post it. And the 2:30 h training was one of the best and for sure the hardest training I ever had (my legs hurt like hell).

It was funny to see the 5-year olds staring at me as if they had never seen a European before :) The group of children was then split and separately trained by one of 3 Sensei’s. Lucky-me was allowed to train with the ca. 15 year olds, who were all black belts and not to shy to make fun of my lack of skills. The Sensei was a funny guy in the mid-40’s who explained very good and made a lot of jokes with me and the rest of the group even though I did only understand around 50%.

I was accompanied by the secretary of the Professor, Yuka Chiba, a very nice, 28-year old, newly married women, who acted as my interpreter. She took some pictures, maybe I can get and post them next Monday.

Tonight I will get my welcome party :) If I got it right, we are going to a restaurant. I let you know, how it was.