He could watch Teyla practice with her sticks like he could watch football, and actually participating gives him the same thrill as riding a Ferris wheel. John only wishes he could spar with the same amount of passion he sees in her eyes during their sessions. She shows him everything Athos has made her, and it leaves him more than a little sore. He knows the limits of his body and his ego. He's not sure of Teyla's limits or how far she's willing to go yet but he bets it's pretty damn far.
In a blur of fierce movements and whistling blows he sees an ally, and perhaps in a different world or on a bad day, a formidable opponent. Sometimes he likes to think he sees neither ally nor enemyand something more than friendship.