Sometimes it is the small things that matter.

Taking that first step, we can have some trepidation. After a number of them. we don’t even notice the steps anymore. That can be at times, both enjoyable and frustrating.

Every day we get an opportunity to fix our mistakes from yesterday! We all have our reasons for training martial arts. Over the course of training it can be difficult to recognise if we are improving. It can be the small things we do not notice. When we first start something new, such as martial arts training. It can be intimidating that anxious feeling can become overwhelming. After a while that sense of anxiousness wanes and you begin to turn up to train, and enjoy the entire process. WIN! it is a small one but very important.

Making that kick easy. takes little incremental changes, of stretching development.

Stretching can be one of the most painful/enjoyable parts of an exercise program, and indispensable to martial arts for increased range of motion and recovery. When some begin training, touching your toes may be a challenge! over time students then look to get there head to touch their knee. a small increase in performance has a huge overall effect.

These are small details that sometimes students don’t realise they are achieving. students need to be encouraged and realise that some improvements are small, and frustratingly so, can take along time.

If you compete regularly and you begin to medal when previously you have not been, It is a big green light that shows your development. Or at least you think so! sometimes your style matches with them, you got a good bracket etc. sometimes this feedback can be not a total truism. it is better to monitor your progress in the details of your own movement and technique. am I able to use this kick when sparring? can i hit this sweep on all the team in the gym?

having a training journal will help you realise your progress. as some of this progression can be small. sometimes having it i black and white, and writing it can allow the process to sink in.

Best of luck in your journey!

Craig

Winning in competitions needs to framed in an understanding of learning and progression. Not just victories.