Sunday, October 30, 2011

Martial Arts in Juneau

When I knew the rainy season was approaching, I looked into possibly getting back into martial arts.  Although I have yet to do so, I have found the following options for training in town:

Juneau Aiki Dojo
Aikido taught by Sensei Chris Keller.  Offers class 7-8:30 pm most nights in downtown. $80/month.

Tang Soo Do
Korean style karate taught by Micheal Ban.  They do not have a website, but they offer classes Tuesday and Thursday nights from 7-9pm in the Mendenhall Mall in the valley.  They also have an informal session on Saturdays.  One of Micheal's blackbelt also teaches in downtown on Tuesday and Thursdays from 4:45-6:30.  Show up at the Mendenhall Mall when class is in session to find out more. $35/month.

Juneau Shotokan Karate
Traditional Japanese style karate.  Classes offered couple times a week in dojo near the airport.  $52.50/month.

Jade Dragon Alaska
Kung Fu and Taichi.  They only offer private lessons though.

Fall in Juneau

Well, it's that time of year that I have been dreading - Juneau's rainy season.  It already rained more than I would have liked during Spring and Summer.  Now into it's most wettest season, it rains every day.  There is about a 10 minutes window most days where the sun peeks out from under the clouds and a hint of blue sky can be seen.  I look out the window with hopes of a clear sky for my evening walk with Millie.  It's a teaser though, so I go home, put on my rain gear, and head out to Sandy Beach for about an hour in the rain.  On the weekends, I've stuck to well known trails that are likely to be least muddy - Salmon Creek (up to the power house) or Brotherhood Bridge Trail.  Both are about 4 miles, long enough for a rainy day.  There are many trails I have yet to hit in Juneau, but I'm not too keen to explore in this kind of weather.  Besides, many of the ones that gain elevation are probably muddy and not too safe or fun right now. 

I'll be honest, this whole rain thing is a bit difficult for me.  I had enjoyed my time here until now because I had been able to explore new trails.  Now that excitement of exploration is gone, for now, there is little else to keep me entertained.  To make matters worse, I managed to get a business trip back home end of September, and I took a week off to spend time with friends and family.  This only made me miss them more once I got back.