Have you been in a position in your life where you feel that nothing excites you? You know, when someone asks you, "So what's new and exciting?" and then you say, "Well, nothing much," not because you don't want to say anything but because there is really nothing to say.

Well, I have something new and exciting to share. One night as I was in the shower, this thought came out of boredom, "I want to kickbox!" I told my husband about it and he said sure and then asked, "How are you going to get there?" I said, "I'll ride my bicycle."

The next morning, he sent me an email with the website address and a personal message saying that two of his coworkers are already in the program and one is actually willing to give me a ride on the way and back. I said, "Perfect! I don't have to ride in the cold." So that's what it is for me the past three weeks. I have been kickboxing.

I decided to do kickboxing so I can kick ass. No, not really. The truth is I wanted to challenge myself. I remember how sore and how much I have been swearing after the very first class. It was not funny. But after several classes the pain began to subside. I also realize that kickboxing has not only taught me techniques on how to kickbox and that it is keeping me fit, but it also gave me a validation that I can challenge myself and have fun at the same time. I also like that it is a friendly, no pressure way to meet with other women. As someone who is new here in Yellowknife and know nobody else but my own family, being a part of this group gives me a sense that I belong, that I am involved.

My favourite part in kickboxing is improving my stance and my balance. I never thought how hard it is to balance my own body. I find it tricky and I am still learning. Every time I throw a kick, I have to make sure that I put that foot down and still be in the right position, kind of like life itself. Our trainer said, “It is very important that you keep your position right because that is what gives you power.” Of course, upon hearing it, I pondered about life. I thought to myself that the more balance and secure I feel about my position in life which to me means how much I know myself, the easier I can tackle whatever is thrown at me. Just like in kickboxing, without proper stance or position, the less power you have and therefore you don’t have enough power to attack or defend yourself against your opponent. On the contrary however, if you do have the proper position, the easier you will be able to maximize your power in every attack or in every defense you have to make against your opponent. All these thoughts came over me while I was doing my jab, uppercut and hook.

For the last three weeks we have been doing combination of kicks and boxing. My upper body is so sore. For some reason the carpool could not go on so I now ride my bicycle to go there --- in the cold. Riding my bicycle from downtown to taking the hilly trail and all the way to the airport road has made my thighs sore as well. But you know what, for the fun and excitement it gives me, kickboxing is worth it!

So, how about you, what’s new and exciting?