A note of Gratitude

This weekend is Independence Day weekend. As such, a pause from training and advice giving is in order. I would like to take this moment to appreciate my country, and several free women and men and women who have deeply enriched my life.

Kikuko Zutrau Miyazaki, my first Shiatsu teacher, gave me a diploma from the Boston Shiatsu School in 1998 with the words "Now go and learn Shiatsu!"

Brad Crews, my first Ashtanga Yoga teacher and fellow Shiatsu student. In 1998 he encouraged me to begin teaching what I know, especially when students want to learn.

Abel Villacorta and Jill Miyamoto, my first Ki Aikido instructors, who in 2000 allowed me to trade classes for Shiatsu sessions.

Kashiwaya Koichi sensei, Chief Instructor of Ki Aikido, whom I've had the honor of learning from over the past 11 years. He brings joy and diversity into his teaching, and encourages me by his example.

KC Goldberg, Russian Kettlebell Challenge instructor, introduced me to kettlebells and trained me for my first instructor certification in 2004 and continues to support my practice as a fellow student and teacher.

Annie Pace, senior Ashtanga Yoga teacher, picked me up as a student in 2006 and completely spoiled me on a "pure" form of yoga.

Russell Smith, Derek Nabel, Bill Stanley and Jen Trotter, senior Ki Aikido Instructors, lead me to my first and second black belts (2008 & '11) and lead their own respective dojos in Rocky Mountain Ki Society. I especially thank these folks for their commitment to Ki Aikido and the teachings of Koichi Tohei sensei.

Ken Blackburn, IKFF Chief Instructor, who certified me as a Kettlebell Teacher in 2009, '10 and '11. Ken continually inspires me as a student and teacher.

Matthew Sweigart and Dave Goetz, HeartMind Bodywork school teachers, who have helped me advance my study of Shiatsu and recognize me as a senior practitioner.

Thanks to God that I was born in the United States, allowing me to travel far and wide, learning and exploring over the years.
May we all enjoy and share the many freedoms of our country.
A fun and safe weekend to all!

Confessions of a wounded lifter

Yes, it happened, just like I warned you all not to do. After a class, without re-warming my shoulders, I injured my arm practicing Turkish Get Up.
So what did I learn?

1. Why many coaches and gym owners fear the kettlebell - That warm-up is key, especially joint mobility. If a coach doesn't have a thorough mobility routine, watch out! With TGU, the shoulders must be well mobilized and warmed to avoid trauma. With Swings and Windmills, the hips must be adequately prepared.
2. Why I love living in Boulder - This blog post could be called "The joys of hiking in and around Boulder." As most athletes know, injury is a horrible experience on the mental/emotional level and physically. A body that's conditioned to work wants to continue putting out BTUs regularly. To satiate my body's need to sweat, the local hiking and biking trails have been a Godsend!
3. Even if I'm not lifting I can still teach - And thanks to a group of dedicated students, I don't even need to demonstrate!

Join the upcoming Mallory Cave hike/bouldering event, this Saturday June 25th.
We will leave the NCAR parking area at 10 am.
Please call or email if you want to join but might be late - 303-514-1445  kettlebellfitness@yahoo.com
Bring rock climbing or five finger shoes if you want to boulder along the hike! A chalk bag could be useful.

Best wishes to all for a safe and healthy month!
Christian
www.MindBodyEnergetics@gmail.com

Group Hike to Gregory Canyon Loop, Sat. June 11th

We will start at 10:30 AM, meeting at the Baseline Parking area (continue up Baseline from Chautauqua, veer left at Flagstaff turn off, the parking area is on the left) the loop is just over 4 miles.

So far this hike has defeated me due to several unique circumstances at the time of attempt. Please come support me in finishing this local hike! Also, Slava has valiantly bailed-out with me at each failed attempt, so we've got to get him to the summit.

Let me know if you plan to join but may be late. email  kettlebellfitness@yahoo.com  or call 303-514-1445