On Vox: Should I or shouldn't I?
I’m uncertain if I should pursue this new hobby.
I thought I was attending an introduction to Tai Chi at the Rec Center, but when I got there, people were doubled on top of one another, twisting and writhing on the floor. Apparently I had wandered into a seminar on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. As soon as I realized my mistake, I began backpedaling, hoping to make it out the door before anyone spoke to me. Unfortunately/fortunately, the instructor caught my eye and said that he was glad I came. They needed new blood.
Damn.
As excited as I normally am about trying new things, I told him that I’d watch for today. While watching, my mind went through 4 stages: awkwardness, concern, intrigue, and excitement. It was awkward at first due to the “intimacy” of the maneuvers, watching pairs of sweaty guys writhing, rubbing and often getting a face full of crotch. After that quickly passed, I began noticing the joint locks being applied and started getting concerned for the participants. As they continued, I began feeling intrigued by it all - stirring something inside me. This was, in a way, the struggle of men at its most base and primal, with two physical bodies struggling for dominance. At the same time, it was beyond that; it was a match of skill and strategy, like watching experienced chess players or gamers battling with wits and pride. I started taking in and understanding some of their maneuvers, and began getting excited watching them employ gambits and tactics for leverage.
It was amazing to watch and I’m extremely tempted to join and participate. The only fear I have is that other than two experienced members, all others (myself included) are novices and could simply dislocate or break a joint by simply rolling the wrong way. I guess injury can be said for all martial arts.
Should I try it out?
Originally posted on tabrelial.vox.com