Kickin' It With James

Sorry to have been so lackadaisical on the blogging.  It does however; make me feel connected just knowing you guys are following.  So thank you.  (esp Kara and Shari for holding me accountable)

Anyways, Ryan reads 3 papers a day.  They usually consist of USA Today, the Maui Times and some other local bulletin. Long story kinda short, I had been looking for a reasonably prized, not to far bike ride away yoga studio.  Last week the Maui Times had a nice write up on Maui Yoga & Kickboxing.  The owners are both New Yorkers and know their stuff. Mary Grace trained in India and is teaching Bikram Yoga. James Onnikian is a Golden Gloves boxing champion and World Kickboxing champion turned Yogi in charged of the KB classes.  We went that same night and signed up for our trial week.  Night #1 Ryan and I both did a Bikram class.  I have no energy or desire to elaborate on that other than, it was something I would love to re-visit at another time. 

Kickboxing on the other hand grabbed me from the start.  I had done SMALL amounts in my BADASS Bootcamp training with Christa Doran (for info go to http://www.christadoran.com/) and had loved the workout.  Now, great time and kickbocking with a USKBA Kickbocking Champion is all relative.  It is a 6 days a week, 1.5 hr non-stop strength training, conditioning, and technique class.  I bought my first pair of wraps and gloves (to my dismay, pink was the only color left) on day 2.  I knew I had found it.  I love James.  He's from Brooklyn so he can be tough, rough and sarcastic.  However, he is a great teacher.  He is patient, enthusiastic and verbally motivating with each of his students regardless of their skill level.  His realm of teaching has far exceeded his promise of form and physical training.  I am thankful to say it  has extended into the mental/emotional realm as well.  Needless to say, I am sore! My shoulders and backs are screaming from the hundreds of push up and punches.  My legs are begging for mercy from the 6 miles of biking to class, jump roping and squatting. My feet and ankles are covered in bruises from round house kicks (that are still leaving MUCH to be desired) and my lip is a bit swollen and bruised (a lovely reminder to keep my glove up and protect my face).  None of the above mentioned is stated in a whining tone.  It is said with pride and energy!  I love it and have found myself once again counting my blessings.