Another Circle

I'm extremely exhausted and want to go to bed RIGHT NOW but I really have to write this before it drags into the new week and I totally forget about it.

I've been absent from my classes this week and those in the know would have been aware that I went for BODYATTACK training hosted by FF and conducted by the legendary Kylie Gates. Yup, I've been cleared to instruct and I've got another circle under my belt. Will I complete the 8? It remains to be seen. Even if I embark on it, there's one major obstacle - BODYJAM... But we'll think about that later.

The reason why I signed up for BODYATTACK was not because I want to pursue teaching in this program (BODYCOMBAT remains my first passion and I do have time constraints) but rather the fact that I wanted to challenge myself and push new boundaries. And what's even more daunting was that I have done BA less than 10 times.

Like what my trainer Kylie Gates said, BA is the most 'siong' program to teach. I agree wholeheartedly. Just one track and I'm there gasping for breath. Not to mention having to ensure tip-top execution and perfect technique and coach.

I really do want to take as many LM programs as I can. It's better to do it when I'm not that old yet and my physical state has not deteriorated that much. However, I do want to space them out so that I can get a regular kick up my butt when I'm in my comfort zone.

Being a trainee once again takes me away from that comfort zone. Being taught new things, being corrected, being screamed at... these are the things that I'll never be exposed to had I remained status quo.

Kylie was inspirational. She was a great motivator and coach, and she always had a kind word for everyone. During the individual review, she said some really nice things, things that made me consider if I should pursue this program. I'll like to keep them private, at least away from this public domain. These words are for me to remember for the rest of my life. Strangely I still remember what my trainers Marena Digby (BODYBALANCE) and Geoff Richards (BODYCOMBAT) said to me.

I was very positive throughout the entire training, and wore a constant smile on my face throughout training. Why not? I only have 8 shots at doing this (supposing I go for all 8 prog), and I'm not going to be negative and dampen my experience. That, coming from a naturally gloomy person like myself, is really remarkable.

I've made new friends and acquaintances along the way, recognised some of my strengths and weaknesses. I realised my greatest weakness throughout this entire training, is my complacency. Remembering choreo and music is one of my strongest points, and because of that, I was complacent.

While I had training mates staying until 4am to practise tracks and we had to report at 7:15am this morning, me sleeping at 2am is nothing. And the reason why I slept at 2am was not to practise the track. It was to watch the US Open Men's Semi between Federer and Djokovic. Disgusting I know - I watched the DVD twice, listened to the tracks about 3-4 times and that was it. Not even a single practice.

But of cos here comes the reality check. Because I hadn't practised, I looked a little sloppy in my initial presentation (which was videoed!!!!). I was cringing half the time I watched myself. That's the price to pay for being complacent. I wisened up, rectified my mistakes and did so much better for the second time round.

It's been one of the most physical moments in my life. Pushing myself to the limits, especially in those challenges - the beep test, the circuit, the pushups, not to mention doing the masterclasses 3 times.

But all the sweat is worth it. Not for that little circle I gain. But for the experience, the knowledge I've gained from Kylie, the sharing of passion for LM prog with other enthusiasts, and knowing that each one of us have the capacity to help change lives. That's the key takeaway.