Trusted Warrior-Brother, Travis Jordan engaging in light 'one-step (semi-prearranged) attack vs counter attack drills' with myself, Joe Thomas. Videoed in the 'Library' VIP Room at Treasures Club in secret... Waaay after hours. When the last employee has left and the inside of the club scoured for laggers, the doors and emergency exits secured, the Swain Mats come out and our follow our calling. And after sometimes as much as 12 hours of being on our feet in high alert mode and under duress as club security, we train. It invigorates us for the next hour plus. Through our unconventional methods of give and take and constructive critique, I feel both Travis and I have learned more in this 'experimental' method of freestyle training; not knowing what our reaction will be to an attack until it happens. Keeping what works for us individually and discarding that which does not work for us individually, according to our own particualar body mechanics/stylistic combative preferences. Always sharing knowledge in the true Spirit of Budo; witholding nothing, and working together respectfully, and as safely as possible in the spirit of 'mutual welfare and benefit.' Why? Because our lives, and the lives of our family, friends, and loved ones; not to mention our unspoken duty as 'American Samurai' to protect the weak and defend the innocent. And yup, we make a heap load of mistakes, along with the occasional 'happy accident,' yet we train on unabashedly. Acknowledging that we are and forever will be, 'Lifetime Students of the Martial Arts.' We sincerely hope our fellow martial artists learn from our mistakes as well as get something out of rare occassional exchange while drilling when martial magic happens; something technically correct and worthy of practical use in combat. And as always corrections and critique are very much appreciated. Thank You, Joe Thomas [Lifetime Student of the Martial Arts]
