I was going through some boxes the other day and came across a small notepad I carried with me to classes and seminars with Mr. Mills. It was fun to flip through and see all of the things that he taught. One of the entries was for a seminar Mr. Mills gave in Jackson Hole, WY circa 1995. I had to laugh as the drills that Mr. Mills taught at this seminar, hosted by Mr. Herb Padigimus, were in fact foundation of many of our yellow belt techniques today in the AKKI. It was fun to review and think about how many seminars I’ve attended with Mr. Mills (I stopped counting at 50) and all of the information he’s given over the years.
Write thoughts, ideas, and even quotes down after class and any seminars you take. Keep track of your testing dates and who was in the test with you. Be sure to also write down your own thoughts as they will help you make stronger connections within the art, faster.
I personally have four large binders full of notes full of concepts, principles, and ideas I’ve learned over the years. To me, this information is priceless as I can refer to it for decades to come. It’s amazing to go back and read an idea that was taught 12 years ago and how relevant it still is today.
If you’re not documenting your martial arts journey already, I suggest you start!
About Ryan Wheaton
"When I came to Arrowhead Martial Arts the first time and saw that many people are starting at, or over, my age helped me realize that you dont have to be a kid to begin taking martial arts lessons Its more personalized than any martial arts studio i’ve seen….no getting lost in the crowd! its a comfortable learning environment. Its a place where you expect more and more of yourself because of the quality of the instructors. I love this studio!" - Heather Shaw
Update: Everything old is new again…I came across one of my old binder notebooks that I used after I cam home from class with Mr. Mills in Evanston many years ago. I can’t believe how much is in there and will be bringing these ideas into class!