Beat Frauchiger, from Bern (Switzerland), specifically asked for Jiyū Kumite training.
Accordingly, here are some images of the Kumite training. The images are to remind Beat of the key points I taught him during his time here as a Renshūsei.
Like with all first-time Renshūsei, who specifically request Jiyū Kumite, when sparring I limit my types of attacks, to allow them to build familiarity with them. Then I subtly adjust them, so the trainee cannot defend against them. As the trainee's skill advances, I gradually increase the number of techniques I use, introduce more variations/adaptations, and progressively speed up without compromising safety. In this way, skills and confidence is built up without the fear of injury.
I wish you the very best Beat and hope that you can develop your skill in Kumite from now. Best regards and good luck, 押忍！
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| Haitō uchi |
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| Closely slipping techniques to apply DEAI-WAZA makes defense nearly impossible for the oppoent. |
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| As the opponent adjusts their position land your kick. |
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| Punching to the throat. |
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| The axing mawashi-geri impacting with the shin. |
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| The classical mawashi-geri with the 'ball of the foot'. |
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| My 'tokui' specialty in Free sparring: DEAI-WAZA. |
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| There is no contact here, as you can see Beat is laughing. It is just a gentle push with the fist (to verify the correct distance). All too often karateka throw their techniques from 'point fighting distance', which has no relationship to Budō Karate. |
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| Kaiten shutō uchi to the carotid artery. |
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| In Jiyū Kumite train light and with control to avoid injuries and progressively develop skill. Couple this with full contact training on impact shields, the sandbag and other training tools. In this way we can safely practice and develop the necessary skills, speed, timing and power. |
©️ André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2026).
