A few years ago, I was training a 60-year-old woman whose job puts her in precarious places on a regular basis. Her reasons for training are fairly clear, but the reason for this post is the manner with which she trains is worthy of discussion.
I’m always impressed by anyone who walks through the door, steps on the mats and allows themselves to work through violent scenarios.
In the 20+ years of teaching students, I have certainly run the gamut of ages, physical abilities and mental toughness of those who take up Krav Maga training.
In the case of this particular student, despite having recovered from broken ribs on the left side, structural issues with her right foot, and only being 5 ft tall, she trains with a determination that shows that there is no battle she’s not prepared to win. She allows herself no excuses and will repeat techniques exhaustively until she reaches her objective.
The “tenacity” that she puts into her training will ultimately translate into her performance in battle. Tenacity here does not mean power or speed, but focus on proper footwork, balance and understanding of purpose. Remember, it’s not enough to remember the moves, you have to understand the purpose of each and apply the appropriate amount of force accordingly. This student practices this every session!
Everyone, including myself, needs to take a page out of her chapter of self-discipline and drive. She’s a role model and a further reason why I know that being a “kravist” is as much a spirit and attitude as it is a technical practitioner.
