One of the things that makes MKG International stand apart from other martial arts schools is that we work with a partner from day one!
Working with another person right away can help to develop some important aspects of martial arts training; things like timing, spacial awareness, distance regulation, and sensitivity among many other things.
And it’s FUN!
These aspects of training are very important but, working with a partner can also be intimidating.
Here are 2 tips that may help you to be a better training partner and get the most out of your training.
Communicate . . .
To get the most out of your training you need to let your partner know what you are feeling. If you are unsure about the drill or it is a little confusing to you, say so. Tell your partner how it is going for you so they can help you. If things are going too fast ask them to slow down a bit. If the drill has a lot of variables ask your partner to focus on one part at a time. If your partner is going too hard ask them to take it easy. It is not being rude. It is to make sure that you are on the same page so that you can train safely and get the most out of your class time.
If your partner communicates something that is making them uncomfortable, listen and make the correct adjustment. Don’t tell them to “Suck it up, this is the way it is.” Take the time to make sure that your partner is familiar with the drills and confident. That way everyone will get the best out of their training. This may take some time, so be patient. Don’t be afraid to share what has helped you to grow and gain confidence. With that said . . . .
Be Patient . . .
Everyone is in a different stage of the learning process, so be patient with your partners. The more you slow down and help your partners grow, the more great training partners you will have in the future. Remember your training is not any more important than anyone else’s. So don’t try to pressure your partner to get what you want. Feel free to communicate your thoughts with your partner, but if they are not ready to meet you at that level then, slowing down is always the best answer. Slowing down can help everyone. “Slow is Smooth, Smooth is Fast”
Be patient with your process. You are where you are on your path. Stay the course and be steady. Don’t succumb to the pressure of feeling like you should be further on than you are. Take one step at a time and remember that everyone is learning just like you. There is no need to rush. This will help you to become confident in being the best training partner you can be!
It is always ok to slow down! Take your time. It is very easy to go “too hard, too fast, too soon.” (Guro Rick Faye). Training can get exciting and very fun, but if we are not careful things can pick up very fast. This is when you can make a mistake that could cause bad habits, or worse, hurt yourself or someone else. The more time you take doing things the right way, even if it is slower than you would like, the better the result will be. Slow, Smooth, and Correct are better than Fast, Sloppy, and Wrong every time