Welcome to the next instalment of “Meet the Kenshi”!
Kenshi is what we call our students, and today we are meeting…
Will, a white belt
Will has been coming to Kempo for a few months, having done other martial arts in the past. He’s been working hard to figure out which of his previous habits help and which are confusing him!
Give us a vague idea of who you are outside of the dojo.
Outside of the dojo I am a design engineer, I come from a family that was heavily into agriculture, I always stay busy either helping others with my knowledge and skills or progressing silly and sometimes outlandish projects, usually more than one at any given point in time.
Tell us something interesting about yourself.
I am part of a group of friends that go overlanding in 4-wheel drive vehicles, we have done a lot of the UK, crossed the full length of the Pyrenees last year in 7 days. Next year we are planning a 2-week venture into the artic circle.
What were you most nervous about before you started Shorinji Kempo?
Lack of flexibility with certain joints due to previous life related injuries.
[Editor’s note: this is where Shorinji Kempo’s philosophy comes in handy – train to your own level, there is always a way to adapt to your own body’s needs.]
What were you most looking forward to?
Experiencing something new with different people.
How long did it take you to learn how to tie your belt?
As I write this my dogi turned up a few days ago so I can’t comment on this at this time.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out in Shorinji Kempo?
Expect a friendly atmosphere. The people you train with will help you start your learning, to make it easier for you to pick up new techniques. Wear flexible and stretchy clothing.
Favourite Shorinji Kempo technique?
Kote nuki
Current Kempo goal?
Remember terminologies, languages are not a natural strength of mine.
What would you say is the main benefit you have got out of doing Shorinji Kempo?
Currently the main benefit I have taken away is effective ways to get people to let go of you if they grab you.
If you could travel anywhere in time and space, where would you go, and why?
Location: The main family farm before it was sold
Time: no particular year
Season: mid-late spring/ early summer
Reason: The flowers are out; the orchards are in bloom with a plethora of birds and wild animals around if you know where to look. A moment in time never to be exactly recreated everything in general harmony and no one else around for close to a square kilometre. In my mind, pure peace, and serenity.
If you could change one thing about the world, big or small, what would it be?
Removing human greed, in my mind greed has a lot to do with conflict and negative actions generally.