The training the evening before this was fluid and fun, but on this day I felt totally different. This was probably the most important day of all my training so far because I was split into two Sylvies. Internally nothing seemed to be working right, I was very self-critical, and the session felt grueling. I had uncovered a major secret to Karuhat’s style, which is that you just say on rhythm, and you never stop. Every step back, every block, every time your foot goes down or your opponent’s foot goes down in a moment for action or fake, and it just felt like drowning. But, if you look at me in this session I’m almost completely placid and I’ve never looked as on balance, as on-beat as this ever. It shows that I’m learning his style in a deep way. My mind and experience, my inner monologue. didn’t realize how good I was doing. I wouldn’t have believed it unless I had watched this video. Karuhat turned up the pressure – not with strikes, but with the unique way he has of changing tempo and beat – and somehow I was right there on it. There is a lot to be seen in this session, all the parts were starting to come together.

You can listen to the entire session as a podcast here.

Episode 8. At page top is an extended 12 minute clip, but below you can watch the full 92 minute commentary video of this session on Vimeo On Demand. Purchase of the video or subscription lends support to legends of the ring as Karuhat gets 55% of the net proceeds; patrons get a substantial discount (you can purchase Episode 8 after the trailer below, or look to Episode 8 in the full list):