It's no secret to most that we have had trouble for a long time with our older son, Ryan. He's been a challenge from the day he was born, but regardless I love him. Fourth grade got off to a rocky start courtesy of some other kids with whom he had a past (1st grade year). By the 3rd week he had already been suspended for hitting a child (who actually hit him first). Anyway, I felt like Ryan was searching for something. He NEEDED something where he could channel his energy into something positive. He really dislikes sports or anything that has to do with a team (unlike Alex who loves soccer). I had heard that martial arts was good for children with ADD, so I thought we would give it a try.
He was hesitant at first. Almost refusing to go. But I bargained 15 minutes on his kindle if he went, acted appropriately, and actually participated. Luckily the place we went http://www.martialartslexington.com/ was opening a brand new facility on our side of town so we got a uniform and 2 classes for $20 ($40 actually because Alex wanted to do it as well). I knew after the first night it would be a good thing. Ryan's demeanor changes from the moment we enter the door and yell "MUDO" to Master Jeon. He likes to kick and yell. And oddly enough, he doesn't mind when they correct his form or try to teach him a move. He does exactly what they say and really enjoys it.
A week ago today (the Tuesday following my 41st birthday) I was watching the boys with their instructors and tried to learn their kick sequence. With my background in kickboxing (thanks to Melissa, Vanessa, Wendy and Allison) I was able to count out what they did and sort of "practice" in the lobby. There are mats on which you can stand/practice with your bare feet. I wanted to be able to help my boys succeed in getting to the orange belt (beginning stage). Well....on Thursday when we went back, Master Jeon got a uniform for me. Evidently he had seen me practicing and got me to join in that evening.
For the next 45 minutes or so I screamed, yelled, punched, and kicked with all my might......enough so I had a sore throat later that evening. I learned what different kicks are in Taekwondo vs. kickboxing. The hardest part for me is not so much the kicking as is holding my hands in place. I am so accustomed to "framing the face" in kickboxing, one hand under the chin with another down is a little challenging for me. And so is the balance. Oh my word. I seriously have to work on my abdominal muscles so that I can balance better on my roundhouse. Straightening my supporting leg and making sure I look at my target on my spin around.
He is also teaching me basic blocks for self defense as well as what to do if someone were to come at me with a knife (this part is only for ages 13 and up). Tonight he had me doing rolls and then jumping up and yelling. After the first one my head was spinning. But I got used to it and really enjoyed it.
So in working to be better as a mom to have my children involved in something new, I have chosen to give it a go as well. It's a good thing for my kids to see me train and work on some of the same things they are doing. It's something we can do TOGETHER, which I fell is lacking in a lot of families these days. Parents do their things and kids do their things, but rarely is anything done as a family anymore.
Well, things have changed a little here.
Yes, the little man still has soccer, and I still have my gym classes.
The hubs still has his running and biking.
But now this Zumbafitmom is headed for a black belt (eventually) along with her boys. In a few years I don't think you'll want to meet any of us in a dark alley.
happy dancing (and kicking, blocking, and rolling),
Renee
P.S. I have also started Hip Hop Abs (a beachbody program) in an effort to lose some of this crap around my waist. I took before pictures today and wanted to burn the camera. But, it is what it is, and I'm working to be better....right?
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