Posted by FERAL EXCRETIONS on October 19, 2002 at 03:48:17:
In Reply to: Re: Perhaps you didn't understand posted by Ex-Instructor on October 18, 2002 at 09:26:11:
Most definetly watered down since the 80s.
My last encounter was in 1996 - 1997. I was constantly being put down for trying so hard. It was mentioned to me by the Head Instructor of the school that: The students of today don't understand such aggressive movements/or workouts. Even when counting out loud it was mild compared to the past. At least the number 4 was verbally spoken.
I even got cross examined for helping out a student stretch his leg. Simple procedure. But was told only an instructor was allowed to pass such knowledge. Knowledge? I didn't know that trust was considered knowledge. All I did was show how one can empty the mind to create a relaxed state of mind which allows one to go past their best efforts of the past. The student even came up to me later and thanked me for the insight.
Once I started to get back into the groove of the style. I began to remember previous movements. Like tiger bounce for example.(Frankly a non important movement. Just one I enjoyed to do in the past.) It seemed to me they forgot a good percentage of the movements. I mean most of what I got for my 2nd - 3rd section knowledge was actually being taught to those that were testing for 6 section and 1st degree. Why is that? Could it be so that they can stretch out the knowledge for more $$$$$?
I got into dedogi after my second section test. I believe I got up to dedogi 3 the one where one has to propel themselves from a very low stance without rearing up from the back. Very difficult for me even at that time. Even the Head Instructor of the school mentioned to me he didn't get into dedogi until 5th section. I believe he started in 1991. Hmmm 6 years to become a Head Instructor. A 4th degree to boot. Yes, I guess it could be possible. Never really thought about it until now.
To tell you the truth even the instructors of the Hapkido school I am involved in mentioned to me to be not so aggressive. How? If I don't practice in that manner I don't feel I am progressing forward.
I am at a point where I think it's best to not even get involved in a school and just get individual instruction from those that teach outside their school. All I am looking for is new movement that will improve what is already instilled.
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