Pretesting Begins!

We're definitely getting into gear for the three upcoming tests. We did a lot of work on katatori nikkyo, tonight, including some oyo waza (applied/advanced technique) variations that took some puzzling out for those of us still in the kihon waza (basic technique) end of things. One had us shifting from the entrance of nikkyo by slipping under uke's arm directly into an ikkyo nage. The other started the same but, with a slight but careful switch of the hands, shifted into sumi otoshi. It is very interesting to not only be exposed to but practice some of these advanced variations. Being able to practice them engages my mind, surprises my body with unexpected variations of the familiar moves, and hints at the depth of the art involved. Good stuff!