Thursday, 31 July 2025

Vohenstrauß, Germany Seminar - July, 2025 - OVERVIEW

With Marcel Sensei (Chief Instructor of Vohenstrauß Karate).  

 Below are some direct links to a video of the seminar on my YOUTUBE Channel; also REPORTS in both German and English courtesy of Martin Wachter.


For more information on the Vohenstrauß Dojo please visit their official homepage:

  Karate – Turnverein Vohenstrauß seit 1864 e.V.

For those wanting to start karate, I highly recommend Marcel Sensei and his dojo. Not only technique, but a great community of good people!


Lastly, stay tuned. Oliver SCHÖMBURG will later be presenting high-quality video footage on his YouTube Channel: olliwaa - YouTube


In Sum, a big thanks to Marcel Bieber Sensei, Martin, and all those in the Vohenstrauß Dojo who made the seminar a success (including those at the door and in the kitchen); also, to Oliver, and all of the seminar participants who demonstrated great focus and enthusiasm to learn, and wonderful hearts. This is the true Way of Karate. So, I offer my thanks and appreciation from IKS Japan Sohonbu Dojo.


ありがとうございました

押忍!
アンドレ 


_________________________________

André Bertel
7th Dan
International Karatedo Shotokan
国際空手道松濤館
Oita City, JAPAN
___________________________________





YOUTUBE VIDEO




SEMINAR REPORTS IN BOTH GERMAN and ENGLISH

German Report

English Report

Marcel Sensei and Martin practicing Asai Sensei's kihon tai-sabaki. Here, exact use of Koshi no kaiten.


                              © André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2025).

Wednesday, 30 July 2025

Tuesday, 29 July 2025

Vohenstrauß, Germany Seminar 2025. REPORT (in English)

Vohenstrauß, Germany Seminar - July 2025. Photo courtesy of Oliver SCHÖMBURG: 
olliwaa - YouTube

 INTERNATIONAL KARATE SEMINAR IN VOHENSTRAUSS, GERMANY with Shihan André Bertel (7th Dan, International Karate Shotokan)


 A Weekend in the Spirit of Budo Karate

Report by Martin Wachter



On the weekend of July 19–20, 2025, the Karate Dojo Vohenstrauß hosted a special international karate seminar under Shihan André Bertel, 7th Dan - direct student of the late Asai Tetsuhiko Sensei.


More than 160 karateka from across Germany and neighboring countries gathered to practice authentic Asai-style karate: a Shotokan-based system that merges explosive power with supple, wave-like movements. The entire body is used like a whip: dynamic, flexible, and fully controlled.


KIHON – The Foundation


The first focus of the seminar was kihon (fundamentals). Shihan Bertel emphasized that only through diligent and precise work on the base can real karate be achieved. These foundational techniques were later developed through partner drills, with strong focus on precision, form, and control.


He constantly stressed the importance of direct, clean, and immediate action - without unnecessary motion or wasted energy. Every technique must be decisive and efficient.


Particularly impressive was his ability to connect these kihon concepts with various kata, clearly illustrating that the core principles of karate are universally embedded throughout.


KATA RŌSHU – “Wave Hand” (浪手)


A major highlight was the deep exploration of the advancedkata Rōshu, developed by Asai Tetsuhiko Sensei himself. This kata is a manifestation of his style - circular, flowing, and powerful. It includes rotations, hip manipulations, and transitions between soft and explosive movements.


Shihan Bertel taught not only the form but also numerous practical applications, which were intensively trained in realistic partner drills. His mission was clear: to preserve and transmit Asai Sensei’s karate as it was - unmodified, profound, and true to its Budo spirit. Not sport-karate, but real Budo karate.


Humility, Precision, Inspiration


Despite his international standing and high rank, Shihan Bertel approached everyone with humility and sincere respect. He devoted time and energy to all participants - during training, for photos and autographs, and in personal conversations.


His courtesy, focus, and down-to-earth demeanor made him a uniquely charismatic and approachable teacher.


Outside the dojo, Shihan Bertel showed his lighthearted side. Whether during meals or informal chats, he proved to be an open-minded and sociable individual - always interested in others and building bridges through kindness and humor. A teacher you enjoy spending time with.


Challenging, Educational, Memorable


The seminar delivered both deep technical insight and physical intensity. Every session demanded full focus and spirit. Yet it was exactly this combination - of Budo depth, mental sharpness, and demanding training - that made the event unforgettable.


Participants expressed great enthusiasm and the strong desire for a future seminar with Shihan Bertel.


© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2025).

Monday, 28 July 2025

Vohenstrauß, Germany Seminar 2025. REPORT (in German)

Vohenstrauß, Germany Seminar - July 2025. Photo courtesy of Oliver SCHÖMBURG: 
olliwaa - YouTube

 Internationales Karateseminar mit Shihan André Bertel (7. Dan, International Karate Shotokan)


Ein Wochenende im Geist des Budo-Karate

Report by Martin Wachter



Am Wochenende des 19. und 20. Juli 2025 durfte das Karate Dojo Vohenstrauß eine besondere Veranstaltung ausrichten: Ein internationales Seminar mit Shihan André Bertel, 7. Dan, direkter Schüler des legendären Tetsuhiko Asai.


Über 160 Karateka aus allen Ecken Deutschlands und den Nachbarländern fanden sich ein, um zwei intensive Tage im Zeichen des authentischen Asai-Karate zu erleben – ein Karate-Stil, der explosive Kraft mit geschmeidiger, wellenartiger Bewegung verbindet. Tief verwurzelt im Shotokan, nutzt dieser Stil den gesamten Körper wie eine Peitsche: dynamisch, flexibel, kontrolliert.


Kihon - Die Basis


Im Zentrum des Seminars standen zunächst grundlegende Techniken, auf die Shihan Bertel immer wieder besonderen Wert legte. Nur durch konsequentes Arbeiten an der Basiskann Karate seine volle Wirkung entfalten. Diese Techniken wurden im Anschluss in zahlreichen Partnerübungen vertieft und mit großem Fokus auf Präzision und Kontrolle geübt. Er betonte immer wieder die Bedeutung von Unmittelbarkeit in der Bewegung – keine überflüssigen Bewegungen, keine Umwege. Alles muss direkt, präzise und mit maximaler Effektivität erfolgen.


Besonders eindrucksvoll war, wie Bertel immer wieder Bezüge zu verschiedenen Katas herstellte und damit zeigte, dass die grundlegenden Prinzipien des Karate überall wiederzufinden sind. 


Kata „Rōshu“ – die Wellenhand


Ein Höhepunkt des Seminars war die intensive Arbeit an der Meisterkata „Rōshu“ (jap. 浪手 – „Wellenhand“), die von Asai Tetsuhiko Sensei selbst entwickelt wurde. Diese anspruchsvolle Kata kombiniert komplexe Techniken, Rotationen, Hüftmanipulationen sowie den Wechsel zwischen fließenden und explosiven Bewegungen. Sie ist ein Paradebeispiel für Asais Stil: kreisförmig, flexibel, kraftvoll.


Die Anwendung dieser Kata zeigte Bertel in zahlreichen realitätsnahen Partnerübungen, die mit großem Engagement trainiert wurden. Dabei wurde deutlich, wie wichtig Ihm es ist die ursprüngliche Form des Karate von Asai Sensei unverfälscht und mit Tiefe weiterzugeben – kein Sport-Karate, sondern ehrliches Budo.


Bescheiden, präzise, inspirierend


Trotz seiner internationalen Bekanntheit und hohen Graduierung trat Shihan Bertel mit bemerkenswerter Bescheidenheit und spürbarem Respekt gegenüber jedem Einzelnen auf. Besonders beeindruckend war, mit wie viel Geduld und Zeit er sich allen widmete – sei es beim Training, beim Autogrammeschreiben oder im persönlichen Gespräch.


Seine Höflichkeit, seine Wertschätzung für die Teilnehmer und seine nahbare Art machten ihn zu einem außergewöhnlich charismatischen Trainer.


Auch außerhalb der Halle zeigte sich Shihan Bertel von seiner offenen und humorvollen Seite. Ob beim gemeinsamen Abendessen oder in Gesprächen mit Teilnehmern – er erwies sich als weltoffener, geselliger Mensch, der echtes Interesse zeigte und mit seiner freundlichen Art schnell Brücken schlug. Ein Lehrer, mit dem man gerne Zeit verbringt.


Lehrreich, fordernd, unvergesslich


Dieses Seminar war für alle Beteiligten eine außergewöhnlich intensive und lehrreiche Erfahrung. Die Trainingseinheiten forderten Körper und Geist gleichermaßen und verlangten den Teilnehmenden alles ab. Doch genau diese Mischung aus hohem Anspruch, tiefem technischem Inhalt und der inspirierenden Art von Sensei André Bertel machte das Seminar zu etwas Besonderem.


Die Begeisterung aller Teilnehmer war deutlich spürbar. So äußerten viele direkt im Anschluss den Wunsch nach einer Wiederholung.


Dank an alle Mitwirkenden


Ein großer Dank gilt Shihan André Bertel für seinen Besuch, seine Hingabe zum Karate-Dō und seine inspirierende Art, Wissen zu vermitteln. Ebenso bedanken wir uns herzlich bei Dojo-Leiter Marcel Bieber und seinem engagierten Organisationsteam, das mit viel Herzblut für einen reibungslosen Ablauf sorgte.


Unser Dank gilt auch allen Teilnehmerinnen und Teilnehmern sowie den Ehrengästen, die dieses Wochenende zu einem bleibenden Erlebnis gemacht haben.


 © André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2025).

Tuesday, 22 July 2025

残心 (Zanshin)

Overview

残心 (Zanshin) is a term used in Budo and the Japanese performing arts, which refers to the state of keeping one's concentration even after completing a technique. In karate, it means the spirit of not letting one's guard down even after the technique is completed and preparing for the opponent's counterattack. Zanshin is not just a technical aspect, but an important concept that embodies Budo spirit. Even after the technique is completed, one is required to keep one's mind focused and always be on guard. Below, we will explain the specific meaning of zanshin and its importance in karate. 



The meaning of zanshin: 

A state in which the mind is not interrupted: This refers to the state in which one keeps one's mind focused and not letting one's guard down even after completing a technique. Never let one's guard down: This refers to a mental state in which one is always on guard, in preparation for the opponent's counterattack or next move. Leaving an afterglow: This means being aware of the afterglow even after the technique is completed and connecting it to the next move.



The Importance of Zanshin in Karate:


Preparing for a Counterattack:

Karate is a martial art that repeats attacks and defenses, so even after a technique is performed, you must not let your guard down. By being aware of Zanshin, you can quickly respond to your opponent's counterattack.



Mental Growth:

Being aware of Zanshin helps you to develop concentration and calmness and promotes mental growth.


Etiquette:

Zanshin is not only useful in the dojo, but also in everyday life, and leads to etiquette and consideration for those around you.




PRACTICING ZANSHIN:


Movements after a technique: After performing a technique, concentrate your mind so that you can move on to the next movement immediately.



Observing your opponent: Even after completing a technique, carefully observe your opponent's movements and wait for an opportunity to counterattack.



State of Mind: Always remain calm and try not to be swayed by emotions.


Conclusion:

Zanshin is an important concept in embodying the unity of mind and technique, not only in karate but in Budo in general. By understanding the Budo spirit and being aware of Zanshin in everyday life, you will be able to live a richer life. Accordingly, zanshin is an important element of self-improvement.

Friday, 4 July 2025

My aim is to one day 'achieve even 10% of Asai Tetsuhiko Sensei's skill'.

Rather than say much, here are some images from my daily self-training here in Oita City, Japan, from today. I'm still a complete beginner 44 years on, in my journey (and 32 years since I came here to "the source" and began learning from Master Asai).


My aim is to one day achieve even 10% of Asai Tetsuhiko Sensei's skill. But irrespective of that outcome, I'm so lucky to have had that inspiration firsthand. 


Each day, for two hours, irrespective of whether I teach karate or not, I self-train: this follows Asai Sensei's example, that he personally encouraged me to do.


To conclude,what matters is: (1) Training-training-training; (2) Quality training; and (3) Accessing excellent instruction. OSU!!!





© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2025).

Thursday, 3 July 2025

ちりも積もれば山となる (Chiri mo tsumoreba yama to naru)

The Japanese saying" ちりも積もれば山となる (Chiri mo tsumoreba yama to naru) translates as "Even dust when piled up makes mountains. This is a great saying in regard to one's daily keiko, and reminds me of late mentor, Asai Tetsuhiko Sensei, and his constant emphasis (of karate):"Step-by-step".


With that in mind, today’s training was focused on a handful of 型 (kata)—and their respective 基本技 (kihonwaza), 立ち方 (tachikata) and 運足 (unsoku); furthermore, 自由一本組手の攻撃技 (jiyu ippon kumite no kogekiwaza).




燕飛 (Enpi)

半月 (Hangetsu)

十手 (Jitte)

珍手 (Chinte)

壮鎭 (Sochin)



Particular emphasis was on 技の緩急 (Waza no kankyu). Also focus on 引き手 (Hikite). Concentrate on stressing a decisive 右拳右腰 (Uken migi koshi) and 左拳左腰 (Saken hidari koshi).


自由一本組手の攻撃技

上段 (上段順突き): “Joudan” — Jodan jun-zuki

中段 (上段順突き): “Chuudan” — Chudan jun-zuki
        
前蹴り(中段前蹴り蹴上げ): “Maegeri” — Chudan mae-geri keage
        
横蹴り(中段横蹴り蹴込み): “Yokogeri” — Chudan yoko-geri kekomi

回し蹴り(上段回し蹴り): “Mawashigeri” — Jodan mawashi-geri

後ろ蹴り(中段後ろ蹴り蹴込み): “Ushirogeri” — Chudan ushiro-geri kekomi

Focus was on 体の武器 (Karada no buki) and 体の伸縮 (Tai no shinshuku). In the case of ‘kara no buki’—for the tsukiwaza—it is imperative that ‘seiken’ is correctly formed, the impact angle is precise; furthermore, that depth is correct so that, if not controlled, maximum damage will be achieved. Likewise, for ‘josokutei’ when executing mae-geri and mawashi-geri, ‘sokuto’ for yoko-kekomi, and ‘kakato’ for ushiro-geri. I highly recommend, when making keriwaza, to firmly form the impact weapon at the start of your action. To maximize ‘tai no shinshuku’ the stretch/expansion of the sasae-ashi is imperative to drive the hips forward. The feeling should be to crash your hips through your opponent. In addition to this heavy action, the kicking leg must be raised high and tightly; also, extended fully, via being relaxed and whip-like.

© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2025).

Tuesday, 1 July 2025

評価基準 (HYOKAKIJUN) Evaluation Critera for 形 (KATA)

 

Raikou Kata


形 (KATA)評価基準 (HYOKAKIJUN)
Evaluation Critera

KATA NO ENBU
① 立ち方 (Tachikata)

② 技 (Waza)

③ 流れるような動き(Flowing movements)

④ タイミングおよび同時性 (Timing/Coordination)

⑤ 正確な呼吸法 (Correct breathing)

⑥ 極め (Kime)

⑦ 適合性(Tekigosei: 流派の基本の一貫性) (Suitability: consistent of the respective Ryuha)

⑧ 力強さ (Chikara zuyoi/Power)

⑨ スピード (Speed)

⑩ バランス (Balance)
 

                  © André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2025).