It’s not always easy to figure out what Sensei Koyama is thinking.
But I think I have part of it figured out.
Since he’s about 74, sometimes he wonders how he compares with guys who are much younger. I think.
Then he has the class do an exercise (say, standing on one foot) to see how long everybody else can stand on one foot.
Inevitably, everybody else falls over and has to catch himself on one foot, while Sensei Koyama keeps on going.
I was reminded of the Jack Lalanne challenge, which in essence was a standing offer that Jack would pay x to anybody who could keep up with him while he did his exercise routine.
He never had to pay off.
My guess is that Sensei Koyama could make a similar bet, with similar results.
And the funny thing is, that’s the least impressive thing about Sensei Koyama.
The most impressive thing is his ability, honed over many years, to turn couch-loving roundeyes into excellent martial artists.
Not yet including me, of course. But in another twenty years or so, my technique will improve a bit. I hope.
