Chapter 28: Where Core Strength Begins

The Strongest Transcendent In History Is The Strongest
Chapter 28: Where Core Strength Begins
Katsume looked at me, her eyes brimming with curiosity, and asked eagerly, "So, can you train me now?"
I glanced back at her, maintaining a relaxed demeanor. "Sure thing! Since you asked so nicely," I replied. With a gentle motion, I patted her head, which made her giggle.
An excited grin spread across her face as she wrapped her arms around me in a warm hug. "Yay! You're the best big bro!" she exclaimed, her enthusiasm infectious.
"Don't worry about it," I responded calmly, trying to downplay my role. "It's my job to help you."
With a casual gesture, Katsume opened the door and urged, "Let's go outside now! I can't wait for you to teach me more of your flashy moves!"
I chuckled softly, "They're called martial arts, not flashy moves." Together, we stepped outside, where the sunlight bathed the training area in warmth.
Katsume trailed behind me, her voice steady as she remarked, "Yeah, yeah, martial arts are flashy. There's no difference!"
I offered her a reassuring smile. "You’re welcome to think that, but trust me, you’ll realize the truth soon enough. Martial arts come from within the heart, and that's where true strength lies.” To reinforce my words, I gently patted her head again, a small act of affection.
A look of realization crossed Katsume’s face. "You know what? You’re right about that one, big bro!" she said, her voice reflecting newfound understanding.
As we pull up to the training grounds, I nonchalantly remark, "Well, here we are now." The words roll off my tongue in a light and carefree manner, but there's a sense of anticipation in the air. The training grounds, sprawling before us, present a wealth of opportunities for growth and development. As we step out of the vehicle, the familiar sights and sounds envelop us. I take a moment to observe the well-maintained fields and the bustling activity of fellow trainees preparing for the day's sessions. Each corner of the facility buzzes with energy, from the coaches strategizing with their teams to the athletes warming up in preparation for rigorous drills. This place is more than just a location; it is a hub of learning and camaraderie, where individuals come together to hone their skills, push their limits, and achieve new heights. My casual comment belies the excitement that I feel, knowing that we are about to embark on another enriching experience.
Katsume looked around curiously, her excitement palpable. "So, what cool move are you going to teach me now?" she asked, her eagerness reminiscent of a child in a candy store.
I replied calmly, preparing to explain. “You’ll be learning the armbar first. This technique requires you to establish a dominant position, often from either the guard or the mount. Once you've secured your position, you isolate your opponent’s arm, pulling it towards their body while simultaneously applying pressure to the elbow joint with your legs. This technique demands exceptional timing and control to execute effectively, ensuring that you don’t cause harm. It also showcases the principles of technique and leverage that are at the heart of Jiu-Jitsu.”
Katsume listened intently, her brow furrowed in concentration. "Alright then, I understand! So it's like this, right?" She practiced the initial movements, nodding her head in determination. However, on her second attempt, she faltered and fell short.
"You're exerting too much force," I observed, keeping my tone calm and encouraging. "Instead of applying excessive pressure, focus on balancing your movements. Remember, to learn, one must understand the right approach.”
Katsume nodded slowly, her resolve evident as she refocused her efforts. She attempted the move again but stumbled once more. Frustration bubbled up inside her, and she exclaimed, "I don’t get it, big bro! What is it I’m doing wrong? I’m… sorry… I can’t… be like you! I’m not good enough…”
I looked her in the eye, my expression firm yet kind. "Katsume, we were never meant to be the same, and that’s perfectly okay. It’s essential to accept that. You’ve been doubting yourself, which isn’t helpful at all. Doubt only holds you back. The only person standing in your way when it comes to mastering the armbar is you and your self-doubt. Achieving anything is nearly impossible when you doubt your abilities. You need to let go of that doubt and truly believe in yourself. Do you remember what you’re fighting for?"
In that moment, a spark ignited within Katsume's eyes. "Oh my god! You know… you're actually right, big bro! I’ve been such a fool! How could I forget that this was for you? I wanted to be strong just like my big bro!" Her voice was filled with appreciation as she continued, "Thank you so much for telling me that. I’m… sorry you had to see me like that."
I offered her an understanding smile and gently patted her head again. "I don’t mind," I reassured her, feeling a sense of pride for her self-reflection.
Tears shimmered in her eyes, but they were tears of resilience and determination this time. A new resolve flickered within her.
*Inner thoughts: This step is necessary for Katsume's growth; she’s beginning to understand.*
"Now, try it again," I encouraged her, recognizing the shift in her perspective.
Katsume squared her shoulders and took a deep breath, channeling her newfound determination. This time, as she attempted the armbar, the change in her approach was noticeable. Her movements flowed with a graceful precision, a direct result of her personal transformation. To my delight, she executed the move successfully, her potential finally beginning to stretch toward new heights because of the change in herself.
I couldn't help but smile softly as I patted her head gently. "Good job, Katsume! You did it!"
With a radiant smile, Katsume beamed back at me, her joy unmistakable. "No, thank you, big bro! I definitely couldn’t have done this without your help, and I really appreciate… that, you know?" She returned my smile with her own, and in a burst of excitement, she hugged me tightly, her heart brimming with gratitude.
I say casually “The heart is where strength forms its foundation. Techniques follow. But belief… that comes first.
To be continued...