Yeah, this one's a little personal but at the same time, it's a topic I've been reading a lot on due to my interest and my new hobby. One of the things about doing any new skill is maintaining the enthusiasm to continue the practice even when it gets hard. So, I read on it, think on it, and try to work Judo ideals into my life.

And straight up, Judo is Blue Collar to the core.

Right off the bat, there are drills, LOTS of drills. Over and over again. Even if you already know it, that's great that you got it right once, now do it another hundred times just like that. Over and over. It's a hell of a workout, but the entire club is there pulling for you, and you're expected to do the same for them. There's even homework, because when you sign up for traditional Judo, you've essentially signed up for an early 20th Century Japanese Public School Physical Education course.

[video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TykU1X64sv8]

Then, you're expected to spar as well. Sparring in Judo is full contact, and it gives you a good feeling about where your strengths and weaknesses are. (For example, I've learned very rapidly that due to my military training I'm far too stiff when I take a grip, and am relying far too much on strength. Five or six quick trips to the mat taught me about staying loose.)

I've found that Judo fits very well into a life philosophy, especially one focused on succeeding communally. Everybody is expected to pitch in with the basic maintenance of the Dojo, and it's not much work when divided among 15 Judoka every night. However, what's interesting is how that little bit of personal investment manages to take the Dojo from a place you go to work out, to a place that is a truly communal space.

And honestly, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the financial aspect. A Basic Judo Gi costs the exact same amount as when I last considered getting one in 1996. I am NOT making that up. Same price. Dues for a month of unlimited training sessions? 60 Bucks. If you go every day that means you pay less than minimum wage for personal instruction. Of course, it's on you to show up and make it worth the money.

No the art isn't as flashy as the ones that show up in movies. You aren't going to be breaking any boards, or doing complicated acrobatics. (Unless you count being able to fall from shoulder height onto the floor with no major injuries complicated...) You absolutely aren't going to be doing any fancy training exercises that involve fancy equipment and energy drinks. It's just hard work. Day, after day, and ever single day it gets a little easier to hit the first goal of doing better than yesterday.

[video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfp2O9ADwGk]

So, I'm writing to keep my enthusiasm up, to keep my spirits high, and to share the enjoyable activity that I'm embarking on. Thanks for indulging, and if you're in the Portland Area and want to stop by to check out the Dojo, here's the link with all the info that you'll need.

http://obukanjudo.org/

I'll be the sweaty guy in the front practicing falls with the teens.