Adam Bieniak

When and where did you start Jodo training?
I began my Jodo training in January 2010 at the now-defunct Tenshinkan Dojo in Warsaw.

Why did you start practicing Jodo?
I started training in Jodo to complement my iaido practice, as I felt a lack of confrontation with another person.

Describe your typical Jodo training session.
I believe that regardless of where and when I trained, most sessions followed a similar structure: kihon followed by kata. Interestingly, I rarely trained Jodo in a dojo; I mainly practiced at camps both in Poland and abroad.

Describe the first European Championships you participated in. Share your impressions from that competition.
The first European Championships I took part in were held in September 2010 in Brussels. I mainly remember having one primary goal: to shout as loudly as possible. Somehow, my shouting led me to win a gold medal.

Which moment from the championships stands out the most in your memory?
The moment that I remember best is my last European Championships in Zawiercie. As a co-organizer and competitor, I had so much work to do that when the competition ended, I simply sat down with my last medal hanging around my neck like an anchor, and for about fifteen minutes, I hardly moved at all. I was too exhausted.

Do you have any proven methods for dealing with stress during competitions?
I try to disconnect from thoughts about what will happen afterward and from others' expectations. I always remind myself that I am where I am for a reason and that I have the necessary skills, so I use them. Additionally, I never allow myself to think things like, "just don't mess this up." In my mind, I only replay the correct technique.

What is the most challenging aspect of Jodo for you?
Timing. The sense of timing has always required the most attention from me.

Whats your achievements in Jodo at the European Championships and other tournaments?
I think listing everything would be a bit dull. In Jodo, I am a five-time medalist at the European Championships, having won three individual medals and two team medals.

What goals do you set for yourself today?
Currently, I no longer practice Budo; I focus on work and raising my son. When time allows, I pursue other sports where I can utilize the qualities and skills that practicing martial arts has given me.