Beat Frauchiger who is a Nidan from Bern, Switzerland, came for four sessions as a Renshūsei. It was great to have him here and see him progressively improve his karate.
Rather than go into what I taught, here are some images from the Kihon and Kata covered. Please note that 'Part Two' will cover Kumite.
I should add that his request was to study Rōshū and Rakuyō, which of course I obliged. But like everyone else, I stressed the importance of the core Shōtōkan kata, especially Heian for one's foundation.
In Shōtōkan-Ryū, Heian Shodan (Pinan Nidan) is most important, coupled with any of the three Tekki; furthermore, any kata from Bassai (Dai), Kanku (Dai), Jitte, Hangetsu, Enpi, Gankaku and/or Jion.
Overall, I'd like to wish Beat the very best in his karate development and for his remaining time here in Japan. With serious practice of the points covered, you will greatly improve from now!
押忍！
©️ André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2026).
