2010 Michigan: Workshop Descriptions

[Andy]

So I will get this ball rolling.

Sword Training
The ever popular sword class will include techniques for the European longsword. There will be a brief lesson on the longsword, its parts uses and guards, strikes and application of techniques.

Interested students can stick around after the class during free time for additional techniques, sparring and exercises.

Students should bring appropriate footwear. Flip Flops and sandles are not acceptable.
If at all possible students should bring a sword to swing. The sword should be strait and have a cross guard. Here (http://budk.com/Swords/Cold-Steel-Hand-and-a-Half-Training-Sword) is your cheapest option for a training weapon. Not ideal, but passable. If you have a serious interest in the art, invest in a good waster from any of the assorted waster vendors.

Orienteering
Last year focused on theory, which was perhaps not the best choice for a group of people that are just looking for an overview of how to get around.

This year will focus on practical application. Students will be shown how to find a bearing then complete an orienteering course in which they will be given a list of coordinates and they will hopefully find the end of the course.

All that is required is a good pair of shoes for a short walk.

[jdmcowan]

I've ordered my waster. Do you know if anyone has tried whittling one of these thinner to lighten the blade and make it more flexible?

And for the orienteering, I don't think the theory was a bad choice, just poorly timed. We may need to schedule more of a break immediately after meals and then do something physical rather than purely intellectual.

Jeremy

[Setanaoko]

Next month we are running an article on Geocaching. That might be a fun event for you to use for an orienteering event in the future. :) Or some of you might use it to brush up on your skills as time goes on. ^^

[Mindas Arran]

I'd like to see a time set aside for hand to hand sparring/grappling as well.

If nobody is offering a unarmed course, I'd be glad to run something.

[Andy]

justin was going to do grappling, but now he cannot make it. So feel free to take his slot!

[Mindas Arran]

That's unfortunate that he can't make it. I was really looking forward to rolling with him a bit.

I didn't know if the sensei from the Chicago chapter had something planned or not.

[Angelus]

Yes, I was just working with him tonight. It sounds like he will lead a workshop on disarms with a lightsaber as well as controlling your opponents weapon.

[Mindas Arran]

So you want me to run something? Hey, we could go over some of the stuff this weekend if you make it down! :D

[Angelus]

I'm posting this on behalf of Daniel/Arya Nott

Jung and Star Wars: A discussion of archetypes in the Star Wars Trilogy
The presenter will discuss how the work of psychiatrist Carl Jung and mythologist Joseph Campbell influenced George Lucas in creating the original Star Wars Trilogy. We will discuss how myths can impact people's lives, and encourage participants to talk about the unique ways the films have impacted their own lives and led to their decision to become Jedi Realists. Participants may share as much or as little of their life stories as they feel comfortable.

[RyuJin]

this may be of interest pertaining to jungian typology(devised by carl jung)
the website www.humanmetrics.com has a link to take the jungian typology test, it's the same test many companies employ during the application process to determine if your a good fit or not...once you take it, it will give you a 4 letter typology(for example mine is InTJ ) then it will give you a description of your specific typology( mine was Rationals for the main category and Mastermind for the subgroup) having your typology can help you address any problem areas you may find, and it can give you insight into what employers see when you apply for a job....

[Mindas Arran]

Friday Morning 7:00am
Friday morning will be a mix of warm up exercise and qigong. We will conclude the exercise with a RAYOP (run at your own pace). Handouts detailing the exercise regimen and qigong techniques will be provided. I recommend wearing clothes that are easy to move in and comfortable shoes if you're going to participate in the run (or walk, at your discresssion). Water will be provided, though I suggest to drink plenty the night before.

Exert-o-meter: ** to **** (Variable, depending on the feel of the participants and the run.)

Friday Afternoon 11:30am
Line Drills and Pad Drills. This will be another physically orientated workshop. We will be going over single techniques on the body shields and combinations and drills on the focus pads. If you have body shields (kick shields), focus mitts, or thai pads feel free to bring them. I also recommend wearing clothes you can sweat and a mouthguard. Water will be provided.

Exert-o-meter: ***

Saturday Night 7:00pm
The evenings discussion will focus on martial application and removing the "stuff" from the "fluff". There is a disturbing trend in modern martial arts to teach techniques that simply are not applicable or to teach techniques that are applicable in a methodology that renders them ineffective. Handouts detailing the main points will be provided.

Exert-o-meter: *

Exert-o-meter scores:
* no exertion beyond everyday activity.
** light exertion, expect to sweat a little.
*** vigorous workout, you'll sweat for sure.
**** we mean "to make it or break it". Time to push individual limits to the max.