I wouldn't want to drive a funny car

I took an MMA class for the first time ever with Justin on Saturday. My right butt cheek still hurts from all the falling we did during takedowns. I'm glad I've taken 6 years of karate and watched just enough UFC to know kind of what's happening.

Despite the techniques I did recognize, putting them to use in an entirely different way was fun and challenging. For example, utilizing a rear naked choke from the mount position. In karate/judo, we are always taught to keep the chin in the crease of the arm so as not to cause major damage to our partner. I kept this in mind, but one of the instructors said to use the forearm. Sure, it causes a definite increase in danger, but when working with partners, I'm not all certain it's the best idea.

We did several takedowns defending against a jab, cross, and a hook. Much of these, again, were moves I've learned before but applied very differently. Justin and I were also given the basics of the mount and guard positions.

Because I'm a fervent note-taker, I came home from work Saturday night and wrote four pages of notes on what we learned - three for the actual techniques, and one for my thoughts and analysis. I mentioned to a friend of mine that I feel like we're back in our field research class. Am I the only nerd who actually enjoys taking a class and applying the knowledge gained to something else?

Hopefully over time, I can post more detailed information on this club.