Kiai

I warned some family and friends that my Friday post would have self defense pictures in it. I didn't lie.

Tonight was Noah's fourth class out of 8 for Self Defense. As you may remember from a past post, I have been sad that I couldn't see him in action. So tonight was Parent's night and I rearranged my teaching schedule for Thursdays so I could be there. I was extremely impressed with Noah's behavior (It is so nice to say that for once).

He paid attention extremely well all the way through class.



















Last week was the first week they started "sparring". We were required to get him a cup for protection. This was quite an ordeal in our household as neither my husband nor I knew how he should wear it. Either way, Noah voiced his discomfort VERY LOUDLY and announced after class that he wasn't ever going to "scar" again. So after talking to my brother, I bought him some support undies for class tonight.

He was quite happy to show off his full protective gear for the camera, complete with mouthguard.



















Then at class, during the sparring, I learned what real sparring they actually do. NO CONTACT. It was the funniest thing. Look how cute and small he looks.














Noah just kept hopping around in a circle. Once in awhile, the instructor encouraged him to try something that he actually learned in class. Try to watch this without giggling...let me know how you did. He's the shorter one.


Aaron was itching to try on the protective gear all night, and finally when we weren't looking....














At the end of class, the instructor gave them the form for testing for a yellow belt in a few weeks and also told them that they were all qualified for an advancement "free" just this one time. He gave them each a yellow stripe to wrap around their white belt. Noah was very proud.














So I was so happy to finally be able to see what the class was all about and I can stop grilling Steve each Thursday when they get home. I am sure I will post more after the first test in June. I don't know if he will keep going with it or not, but he sure looks adorable and seems to be learning a lot.

Happy Friday.