Being brutally honest, I think my mind was clouded during the first lesson and I felt that I had retained little.

But in subsequent sessions I was calmer, clearer and my mind was ready to accept what I was being taught and keep it there.

In lessons two and three we were taught Shumatsu Dosa ichi and ni (fixing movements one and two) from the Kihon Dosa (basic movements) respectively.

This was far more challenging but it was much more readily identifiable how these techniques could be used in a practical situation. Again, committing the subtle nuances of the techniques was difficult – I think it will be some time before it comes naturally.

This was far more challenging but it was much more readily identifiable how these techniques could be used in a practical situation. Again, committing the subtle nuances of the techniques was difficult – I think it will be some time before it comes naturally.

However, I’m pretty happy with my Ukemi (break falls). I don’t really have any fear about falling – I’m also happy to be Uke (the person who has the techniques applied on them).

My only goal in this area at present is to fall and be able to get back to an effective ready position fluidly and immediately.

Despite the problems I have, I’m confident I will be able to overcome them. Andy’s teaching method will play a part here. He adopts a style that is both authoritative yet relaxed. It might sound like a bit of an oxymoron but it works extremely well as I’m at my ease, yet at the same time attentive and alert.

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