Engagement

A few people have been asking me over the last couple months how I stay engaged with Kung Fu while being away so much. With the shutdowns, people are missing the Kwoon and the connection they have with the other students. Being alone and trying to maintain training is difficult being away for half the time. Being away all the time puts a whole other level on it. There are a multitude of things that keep me engaged and over the past 2.5 years, I have utilized all of them. 1) The online classes have been a huge help to me and I wish we had them when I first started travelling for work. The best thing you can do is attend your classes at a minimum. You should also take advantage of the Tai Chi class and even attend so of the lower ranking classes. Even though you are not there, you can still learn so much. 2) Stay engaged with your fellow classmates. Take part in all the challenges and post on Kwoon Talk. Encourage others and maybe have some fun as well. 3) Utilize the one on ones. These have been a big help to me as it allows me to interact with the students and the questions help me to focus on Kung Fu and my training. They are also a great way to ask for feedback on a specific and then allow you to apply your eye for detail. 4) Find a training buddy who you can connect with. This can be done virtually as anyone can set up a Zoom account. This way, you can support each other as well as practice techniques and over feedback. It will also he3lp hold you accountable for your inactions. 5) Finally, it comes down to mindset. Why did you join Kung Fu? Why do you enjoy Kung Fu? Everyone will have different reasons but remind yourself of why. Remember that this is only temporary and one day we will all be back at the Kwoon again. This reason alone, should be enough to keep you engaged.