China 7 months: First Mantis Lesson

First session of Praying Mantis consisted of a 10min jog, static stretches, dynamic stretches and hip mobility exercises. First thing the Master did was put me in a horse stance with both arms up and i was told hold this pose. I held this pose for what seemed like an eternity. We were in a small, dark room, the sun was shining so brightly outside, sweat pouring from my body, my arms and legs were shaking. I knew I was in the right place.




The master made Seb, a new student, practice holding different stances for pretty much the whole session to.




The afternoon session was held up in the mountains. About a 30 min walk from the academy. It is always hot and it's up hill all the way; excellent.

This place looks amazing but is not as tranquil as it looks as there is a building site not too far away.I think a temple is being built as a future tourist attraction.



The Mantis students consisted of mostly English and one Canadian. All young guys. I and Seb being the eldest.

It was a good day.