A World of Thanks
I just figured out why Rip Van Winkle slept those 20 years. I heard he was at an IDEA World Fitness Convention and went home to take a little nap, but he was so physically and mentally spent that he slept right through the alarm (for a couple of decades). I reckon I’m in for a pretty lengthy nap just as soon as I proof this bad boy and send it over to Billy Pease and Gus Aguirre, the IDEA IT whizzes who made this phenomenal convention editorial-photo-video blog possible. Thanks so much, guys. Fantastic job.
Hats off, likewise, to all IDEA staff, assistants, presenter faculty and exhibitors who pulled every last stop to make this event "a real barn burner," as they say back around Illinois-way, where I grew up. A 25-year celebration that put more than 7,500 people through the doors never came off so well. Not counting our volunteer crew of 300 assistants, this event is planned over the course of a year by a mere 30-plus souls. Of course, they are 30 of the most exceptional and talented people I’ve ever worked with, but still, it’s not that many bodies to pull off something as seamless as this monster event. We work hard and play harder. Way to go IDEA team!
To our cherished members: We would not be here without you! Each of you gives us a strong purpose. You give our work meaning and focus. We are in this Inspire the World to Fitness™ mission with you, to support you. Let us know what we can do to help you in your quest for excellence.
And last here, but always first on my list, I wanted to recognize the IDEA editors and contributing editor Alexandra Williams, who all stepped up without question (and on very short notice) to take on this blog—adding a considerable amount of extra work and pressure to the framework of what are already jam-packed coverage assignments. Kate, Joy, Margie, Ryan and Alexandra…you are amazing observers and writers. You’ve brought this fine, fine celebration of the industry to life for the rest of the world to experience through your eyes, thoughts and feelings.
I may be weary now, but for those of you who know my normal energy level, look out! I banked the spirit and energy I absorbed from the experience of the last 5 days for future use. We’re 26 next year and that means it only gets better, friends. If you missed this one, start planning to attend in 2008, because we always try to top the previous year, silver anniversary or not.
Be well. Be happy. Be in touch, okay?
- Sandy Webster's blog
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IDEA World 2007 Always Great, But.. Where did Martial Arts Go?
So, it is Monday night. I, like everyone else, am sore, tired, and inspired. As I drive to teach my afternoon class, I think how Idea World 2007, has delivered on all fronts. Lectures, classes, workshops, expo, all top notch.
This is my fourth IDEA World Event, and I look forward to seeing people I network with but once a year. That friendly Asian girl I see at the step workshops (what is her name?). We always say "hello, good to see you again". Then we are both off on our separate missions of knowledge and exercise, waving or "high-fiving" each other in the halls as we run to the next class.
There is a gentleman from Egypt (I think), I met five years ago at IDEA World. We were both on the Martial Arts track of workshops and workouts. We had almost every class together. I also see him every year, we always greet each other warmly, comparing notes on the current event, and catch-up on the years accoplishments.
This year, he was the very first person I saw as I entered the registration area on Thursday afternoon. Kind of cool...
But unfortunately, that was the only time I was able to speak with my friend from Egypt. You see, due to the very small offerings in Martials Arts this year (and in the previous two years), we each look for other specialties to focus on.
Which leads to my question: Where has Martial arts gone in the Fitness industry? Is there lack of interest from participants, presenters, is it a money issue, trend issue? I am from San Diego, and teach Cardio Kickboxing, Club Box, and train clients using these disciplines. I believe the interest in San Diego for the Martial arts is very strong.
IDEA is based in San Diego, and hopefully hears what the community wants. Look at any Group Fitness schedule at your local club, how many kickboxing classes are taught each week? Can it be that Step, Spinning/Cycling, Hi-Low, Pilates, Water, and Yoga are all we are teaching out there? I don't think so.
I was happy to see there were two quality M.A. workshops this weekend: Cardio Boxing, and Boxing Contact Fundamentals. Both taught by Mr. Isordia. Great job!! Everyone in those two workshops were asking for more, and wondering what happened to this great fitness option? Those same people, and more, were in the Billy Blanks Workout during break..
Let's not forget that long before all the above mentioned were discovered as "fitness trends", Martial Arts (including boxing),was being practiced for Centuries as a way to maintain and achieve physical and mental fitness. Furthermore, long after these trends have gone the way of the Ab Roller, Martial Arts, in all it's forms will be practiced in many cities around the country and world.
So I ask the IDEA folks, "what's up?" Give us more Martial Arts!! No, not the hard core stuff, nor the fluff stuff. Instead provide us with the techniques and choreography that we can apply in class or with clients. Bring us presenters with real experience in the field, not converted Hi-Low instructors (no offense intended). Like cycle instructors, the best ones are the ones that really cycle outdoors (visualize). So with Martial Arts and choreography, visualizing the opponent for best form, etc.
In conclusion, if you are out there asking the same questions about Martial Arts in the fitness industry, let yourself be heard! Add your thoughts to this blog. Thanks everyone, see you next year!!