Andre Bertel's Karate-Do

Well prepared for Germany & Italy

2012-01-16T00:50:00.023+13:00

Here are some photographs from my self-training at Sumner beach today.

I'm now well prepared and in top condition for my upcoming seminars in Germany, and Italy (in the coming weeks). These technical clinics will be fantastic for all of the attendees, and will cover many underlying aspects of Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei's unique form of Shotokan Karate-Do.

As this will probably the last post (before I depart for Europe) I want to express my looking forward to seeing everyone there. OSU, Andre.

Kizami-zuki, gyaku-zuki & oi-zuki

2012-01-12T13:45:00.034+13:00

The base techniques of standard karate-do are essentially kizami-zuki (jab punch), gyaku-zuki (reverse punch) and oi-zuki (lunge punch). This is because they are the underlying kihon-waza (insofar as correctly utilising the hips is concerned) and establish `the shortest distance between you and your opponent’ from a natural position. This goes beyond straight-line attacks, as only via perfecting funnel-like lines with one's thrusts, can a karateka fully express and maximise the circular techniques which obviously deviate from these. In the above photo I am doing pre-arranged kumite with my kohai and JKF (Japan Karatedo Federation) Kumite Champion, Inada Yasuhisa (4th Dan), who is countering me with chudan gyaku-zuki.

To avoid charging off on a tangent (and addressing the diverse subject of trajectories), I’d like to say here that regardless of style: “fundamentally all karate techniques are generated by the harmonious connection of upper and lower body derived from the waist, one’s kokyu (breathing), and the kokoro (the spirit/mind)”. In Japanese culture physical energy & mental/spiritual energy is said to be found in the hara or pit of the abdomen; therefore, it shouldn’t be a surprise that one’s `koshi’ is most important in the execution of all Japanese budo (martial arts). Of course, this sounds all nice in words and written text, but it must translate into actual training, and more importantly, be constantly practiced.

Without being exhaustive here are some basic examples from the three aforementioned core foundational techniques: (1) From KIZAMI-ZUKI: age uke, soto-uke, uchi-uke, gedan-barai, uraken yokomawashi-uchi, mae-ashi mawashi-geri and so forth. (2) From GYAKU-ZUKI: essentially any offensive waza from the reverse side. And
(3) From OI-ZUKI: any oi-waza i.e. – mae geri. Also waza employing gyaku-hanmi (reverse half-facing position).

My training & teaching: When I train and also when teaching, I follow this `basic' underlying pattern of kihon, no matter how `advanced' the session is. This is because it is essential for me in my own karate, and regardless of who I'm teaching or practicing with, it immensely benefits them as well. Practice and refinement in such a manner ensures immediate and long-term technical advancement. Obviously, from there people can move on to other things, with a very solid foundational understanding. Nevertheless, the foundation constantly requires the house to be lifted, and more concrete to be poured, whilst the rennovations continue. It's like a garden, you can plant all the nice plants and continue to do so, but you still have to tend to the weeds, water the grass etc. It seems that many people are either dehyrdraing their gardens or drowning them...

Based on these fundamental aspects, it is easy to see why in Japan, irrespective of style, most traditional karate-geiko begins with many repetitions of kizami-zuki kara gyaku-zuki & oi-zuki (in ido-kihon) or their wonderful variations. Yes, these techniques are being constantly tempered into precisely trained weapons, but so are many others, directly through them.

My new email address

2012-01-10T19:54:00.009+13:00

I have cancelled to use hotmail altogether, therefore my only means of contact (by email) is through the following gmail address: andrebertelono@gmail.com

Obviously, any emails sent to my old addresses will no longer be received. Kindest regards, Osu! Andre.

ANDRE BERTEL 2012 EUROPEAN SEMINARS

2012-01-07T22:00:00.019+13:00

I'm really looking forward to teaching the upcoming seminars in Europe in February. However, some people are still emailing me to book places. I am very sorry I cannot help you. Please contact the organisers in either Deutschland or Italia. Still I really appreciate the messages and look forward to seeing you all. Osu, Andre.

February 4th & 5th Ahrensburg, Northern Germany.

FEBRUARY 11th & 12th: Mira (Venezia), Italy.

IJKA Europe Honbu Dojo

2012-01-07T00:53:00.013+13:00

Bruno Koller Shihan (IJKA 8th Dan) recently contacted me to say he is officially opening an IJKA Honbu Dojo in Lucerne, Switzerland (please click on the attached poster). This dojo will officially be the headquarters of International Japan Karate Asai-ryu for all of Europe.

Bruno Shihan is a long-time uchideshi (close personal student) of Shuseki-Shihan Tetsuhiko Asai who is internationally second to none in IJKA-karate; therefore, it will be a special place for all Asai-ryu karateka for not only in Europe but also for karateka from all over the world (who wish to correctly study Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu Karatedo).

Omedetou gozaimasu Bruno Shihan! Osu, Andre.

INTERVIEW: Hanshi Renzie Hanham (8th Dan Seido Karate)

2012-01-05T20:54:00.020+13:00

Hanshi Renzie Hanham is Christchurch City’s only karate master and a pioneer of New Zealand Karate-Do. His long and vigorous karate journey is reflected by his immense knowledge of the art, skill and deep humility. He is a wonderful example for anyone who practices Karate or aspires to begin practicing. Needless to say, I was thrilled when Hanshi Renzie agreed to do this interview. Domo arigato gozamashita Hanshi, Osu! – André Bertel (January 2012).

Due to his illustrious career the following extract (and the photos featured in this interview), have been taken from Seido Karate New Zealand’s official website: http://seidoshibu.co.nz/

“In the sporting arena he has over 49 years experience as a martial artist and is a black belt in judo and a 8th degree black belt in seido karate and is the senior instructor in New Zealand in that art. A judo champion in his youth, he was the youngest black belt in New Zealand. He then went on to study karate, represented New Zealand and lived and trained in Japan under the world renowned karate master Mas Oyama. Whilst there he appeared in the book ‘Advanced Karate’. He is head instructor for the Seido dojo in Christchurch – the largest and longest established karate hall in the South Island. He has instructed literally thousands of people, has trained several world champions in Seido karate and has taught in numerous countries. Several of his students have gone on to achieve distinction in a variety of fields. In 1993 he was part of a team invited to Tokyo to represent New York which gave demonstrations at the Meiji shrine, ran seminars and appeared on Prime Time television. He is a director of a company Gazing Performance Systems which specialises in improving performance under pressure. The company trains people in over 60 countries and clients include major multinational blue chip companies, government departments and leading sporting organisations. The company trains in the areas of sport, business and education.

Renzie is co-developer of many of the materials used by the company. He is also responsible for the graphics and design input. Renzie also works with a number of sports people both here and overseas and has worked for the English Rugby Unions High Performance Department, conducting seminars and workshops for coaches, players and referees.

He has worked with a number of world and Olympic champion athletes in a variety of sports and attended the Sydney Olympics with the NZ triathlon team. Along with Dr Ceri Evans he was invited to give a talk on mental conditioning at Oxford University.

He has contributed to “Mind Games” – a book concerned with the mental aspects of performance published in London 2004. Renzie also contributed to “Endurance Sports Diary 2005’, a handbook for triathletes and Multi sporters.

For the last 35 years he has had his own design business and has been a judge at the New York Art Directors Club International Design Awards. He has won an International Award for his design. Renzie also illustrates and designs books.

As a musician he has produced 4 albums and as a songwriter was a finalist at Tamworth.
He presently works as a company director, graphic designer and as a therapist at a local medical clinic. He trained under Elisabeth Kubler Ross in the USA, Australia and New Zealand as well as having a background and training in other therapeutic modalities.

Renzie’s broad background gives him a unique perspective on the building blocks to success in a variety of domains. His work in the community was recognised recently when the city presented him with a civic award.”
Firstly, thank you very much Hanshi for agreeing to do this interview.

Q. What initially got you into the martial arts and karate-do in particular?
A. I started Judo when I was 14. I loved it for a variety of reasons. Judo is very honest and the dojo provided me with a surrogate family. I started karate in 1965 as a result of Doug Holloway sensei looking for somewhere to train. At that time I was the head instructor for the CanAmJu Judo club, one of the oldest in the area and he started the first karate dojo in Canterbury at their clubrooms. I guess I was attracted to karate because of its then exotic nature.

Q. For decades Seido Karate has such a great reputation for really enhancing its members’ lives and has done so much for the people of Christchurch. As the instructor at the helm of this, what has been your focus in achieving such results?

A. That’s a good question. I suspect that if you’ve been going for a length of time then the dojo builds tremendously strong lifelong friendships and karate becomes the vehicle where this is expressed. My teacher emphasises that karate should be for everyone, not just for the elite athlete but for individuals who may not be very co-ordinated, may not be flexible or fit, or that may be physically or mentally challenged in some way. This approach is both a strength and a weakness because you have people achieving a rank which in the ‘old days’ might not have been possible. For some this means a dilution of the system and I have a great deal of sympathy for that view but I think as you get older the connections you make through the practice of karate are what makes it significant. So, the process is what becomes important, not just the outcome.

Q. Living and training in Japan with Kyokushinkai directly under the styles founder Masutatsu Oyama, how would you compare training in those days with training now in both Japan and New Zealand?

A. It was long and repetitious and as you would know you hardly ever got praised. Nowadays there is a tendency for us to encourage the student which I think is good but it has it’s weak point because the student sometimes practice just to get that encouragement, not necessarily for the process itself which can mean they may not be as robust under pressure. They can become dependent on externals to define themselves, whereas in the traditional approach your sense of self came largely from within. I feel there is a time and place for both, and it depends where the athlete is in their training. Beginners need encouragement and as they get more accomplished the pressure goes on. The instructor is often more critical and then with your senior students you travel alongside of them.

Q. Kaicho Tadashi Nakamura was Oyama’s number one student. What attracted you to become his deshi and follow him when he established Seido Juku?

A. For Hanshi Andy and myself we felt that the approach that we had experienced in Japan lacked some technical aspects and possibly a spiritual dimension. We had both attended zen sesshins under Sasaki Roshi and felt that this aspect was missing in Kyokushinkai. In Japan I had asked who was the best Kyokushin instructor and everyone said Kaicho. We started corresponding with him and because of the politics involved in Kyokushin invited him over to resolve some of the issues. Eventually he agreed and along with Shihan Shigeru Oyama they came to New Zealand in 1974 to conduct seminars. The year after Kaicho resigned and started SeidoJuku and we naturally followed. I have tremendous admiration for Kyokushin but certainly have no regrets about the path I have taken.

Q. What are the main technical and philosophical differences between Kyokushin and Seido?

A. Technically they have many similarities. Kaicho has introduced his own katas, prearranged sparring , kobudo katas and two man drills. I would say the syllabus in Seido is more comprehensive which is again a strength and a weakness. Kyokushin by its very slogan ‘The Strongest Karate’ clearly puts its line in the sand. When we were in Japan they would tell us that a shodan in Kyokushin was worth a higher rank in any other style and as young men we liked to believe this myth. We all changed our minds when we went along to the Shotokan headquarters and watched members of the Japanese team train. As you would know they were very skilful and impressive and we went away from there with a great appreciation of the style and practitioners. Also in our dojo we had exponents of Chidokan and Budokan training and the first black belt in Taekwondo in Canterbury, a Malaysian – Jerry Yee. It wasn’t difficult to realise they all had something significant to offer.

Q. How has Seido evolved since its beginnings?

A. Initially it was similar to Kyokushin but over the years it has become more accessible and probably broader in its appeal.

Q. Seido also has kobudo in its syllabus. What do you believe are the main benefits of traditional weaponry training for karateka?

A. We don’t start kobudo until the student is a shodan which means they have been practicing for at least 5 – 6 years. We only practice bo, sai, jo and later the sword. From my perspective the main benefits are experiencing different kinds of body movement and of course with a weapon in your hands there is a completely different dynamic in terms of distance, posture and so on. Evasive movement becomes more important.

Q. Kyu and dan examinations in Shotokan are short affairs where only a handful of kata are performed, no more than a dozen kihonwaza, and typically one to three rounds of kumite. Contrastingly, the Seido examinations are physically and spiritually testing. Can you explain the rationale behind this?

A. There are very few situations in western culture where people can be challenged physically and mentally outside of the competitive arena. I’ve always felt its important that people be tested and taken to their individual limit. So, in this dojo everyone knows what is required for shodan, the black belts know what is required for nidan but the rest are kept secret. The reasons for this are that each of the subsequent promotions are distinctly different and present different challenges for the participants. It takes them out of their comfort zones and into unfamiliar territory, because they don’t know how to prepare. So it becomes as much a mental battle as a physical one. This way I feel there is a progression which hopefully acknowledges their changing status. I don’t think this is a better way but it fits with my perspective.

Q. Do you have a favourite kata and if so, why?

A. Sushiho. I like the large movements and the dynamic nature of it.

Q. Likewise do you have a personal kumite technique or principle that you favour or favoured when you used to compete?

A. When I was competing I wasn’t that sophisticated to have a guiding principle that I was aware of, I was happy just to survive. Because of my judo background I didn’t mind being in close which didn’t suit a points system but worked for contact. My two favourite techniques were yoko geri and de ashi barai. I’m keen on developing the ability to change angles and the distance between yourself and your opponent. Unfortunately different rules develop specific strategies which again become the exponents greatest strength but if the rules of engagement change can be their greatest weakness. When we used to compete in University tournaments our style wasn’t suited to the types of rules and vice versa. Eventually we would adapt but whenever there is competition, there will be rules and by its very nature this becomes a limitation. On the other hand tremendous skillsets are developed around this.

Q. You have taught several world Seido karate champions. What do you believe are the pros and cons of tournament competitions?

A. I feel everyone should compete at some stage, if only to experience the emotional anxiety that often precedes it and to see how they function under that kind of pressure. As you know being skilful and effective in the dojo is one thing, being skilful in competition is another and being effective in the street’ is altogether different. Each have their own levels of intensity and require some adjustment which if you haven’t experienced you can find the adaptation required difficult. Three things are important I feel: Clarity, Intensity and Accuracy. Most people have a level of intensity but unless they are clear about what they’re doing, then they won’t be accurate. Tournaments can help develop clarity in that environment.

Q. In addition to your 8th Dan in Seido Karate you are a talented musician, renowned graphic designer and mind coach. Can you tell us about these activities and their relationship with your karate and vice versa?
A. I’ve been fortunate to work with a variety of elite sports people and for the last two years, and alongside Dr Ceri Evans ( a Seido 5th dan) and the All Black’s psychologist Gilbert Enoka who worked with the All Blacks to prepare them for the World Cup. So I’ve had an opportunity to see first-hand the impact, and the resilience, that top level sport requires. I don’t see too much difference between mind-sets required in any of the sports. Of course strategically they are different and use different energy systems but a swimmers brain for instance is much the same as a karate exponent. In terms of design and music, I feel they complement martial arts. Kaicho is a very skilled calligrapher, and I’m sure this is true of many senior karateka- that they are skilled in other areas. This stops them becoming one dimensional. We have all experienced what it’s like to be surrounded by people who agree with everything we say. Long term this can be harmful, at least for me it would have been so I’ve always tried to be involved in a couple of areas to maintain a balance. Other people can achieve this without having other things but I couldn’t.

Q. Lastly, are there any more things you would like to share about your karate journey for the readers of this interview?

A. Yes. In my experience it’s important to enjoy the process, rather than fixate on an outcome. Especially if you want to sustain an effort over a long period of time. Every martial art has their heroes and its own mythology and it’s great to have these heroes as role models but theirs is their own story. We can’t copy that. In the beginning we try to model ourselves on others which is great but eventually we have to find our own voice and tell our own story. If we do this for ourselves, we need to allow this in our students, once they reach a certain point. Then, in many cases we become the student. I believe you have gone through a similar process. Once you’re in a position of leadership things are not so black and white anymore because you become more aware of the individual’s story and what bought them to this place and time. I think this makes us more compassionate and I would hope makes us all more magnanimous. Finally, I greatly admire your particular path, it must have taken a great deal of courage. We never lose that competitive spirit but I think as we get older we look for and desire those things that connect us rather than those things that keep us separate. This way we can make a meaningful contribution to the society we live in.

Thank you for this opportunity. It’s very much appreciated. Whaia te iti kahuranga ki te tuahu koe me he maunga teitei. Aim for the highest cloud so that if you miss it, you will hit a lofty mountain.

_____________________

Do itashimashite! Thank you very much Hanshi for giving this interview it has been a great honour for me. Christchurch is very fortunate to have a karate instructor of your calibre, knowledge and experience. I wish you and Seido Karate New Zealand all the best for 2012. Osu, André.

____________________

FOR INFORMATION ON JOINING SEIDO KARATE CHRISTCHURCH PLEASE REFER TO THEIR OFFICIAL WEBSITE: http://seidoshibu.co.nz/

Andre Bertel Karate Seminar: Italy 2012

2012-01-03T23:18:00.004+13:00

I am being flown to Venice Italy to teach a special course at Mauro Mion Sensei's dojo in Mira. The course is being organised by Silvio Cannizzo Sensei.

To book a place please contact JKS Italia through their website: www.jksitalia.it

Look forward to seeing you all there! Osu, Andre.

Christchurch's only Shotokan Karate Instructors Class Resumes

2012-01-02T20:14:00.005+13:00

The 2012 Christchurch Shotokan instructors training began today. Obviously, this is an important training for Traditional Shotokan in Christchurch as no one else here is capable of training in Shotokan at this technical level.

The content of the first session of 2012 was directed by eight kata (Junro-Nidan, Jitte, Gankaku, Sochin, Bassai-Sho, Kanku-Sho, Meikyo & Gojushiho-Dai). After performing them several times, their kihon, and self-defence applications were broken down. To conclude training various drills for precise timing in kumite were practiced. Overall, it was a fantastic few hours of advanced Karate-Do training with Lyall Stone Sensei.

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand (2012).

HATSUGEIKO 2012

2012-01-01T12:14:00.007+13:00

My first karate-geiko of the New Year today was marked by a new self-training regime which I will outline below. Before doing so I'd like to wish everyone a very happy new year. - Osu, Andre.

PS - In less than a month I will be flown to Germany conducting seminars in Ahrensburg (just outside of Hamburg) then travelling Venice, Italia to teach a course in Mira. If you haven't seen them, here are two videos from my recent seminars in Christchurch, New Zealand: http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2011/12/andre-bertel-2011-new-zealand-seminars.html

JANUARY TRAINING REGIME

Kihon: Shodan, Nidan & Sandan grading syllabus (varied intensity and ranging between 10-50 repetitions depending on daily condition). This is concluded by random Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu drills and exercises.

Kata: Not fixed advanced kata in preparation for European seminars. General class: Heian, Junro, Tekki and the four sentei-gata as usual.

Kumite: Monday (Gohon kumite); Tuesday (Kihon-ippon kumite); Wednesday (Jiyu-ippon kumite); Thursday, Friday & Saturday (Jiyu-kumite & Oyo-kumite).

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand (2012).

Michael Barr (IJKA England) returns to New Zealand

2011-12-30T22:56:00.020+13:00

Once again Michael Barr (4th Dan) from IJKA England came to New Zealand to study Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu karate-do with me. Michael trained intensively last year, and returned again to repeat this from across the world. More than returning it was clear that Michael’s karate has improved immensely, along with his knowledge of Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei’s Karate, so needless to say, I was very pleased!

This meant I could readily share some more in-depth principles of Asai Karate through “the database”—the IJKA Shotokan kata. We literally covered the form and complete oyo (applications) for Kanku-dai, Kashu (Hi no te), Seiryu, and Unsu as taught to me by Asai Sensei. A special thanks to Brendon Wells (1st Dan) who also trained and paired up with Michael for the bunkai/oyo-jutsu. Michael completed the 10 hours of training at the IJKA New Zealand Seminars and did many private lessons (averaging to practice for three hours every day). Because of his efforts and reigi-saho he will return to the United Kingdom with a treasure trove of knowledge.
Outside of the dojo Mizuho and I were delighted to spend social time with Michael and his wife Natalie. Domo arigato gozaimashita.

Andre Bertel 2011 IJKA New Zealand Seminars (Video 1 & 2)

2011-12-28T02:20:00.011+13:00

VIDEO TWO

VIDEO ONE

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand (2011).

Some more photos from the Christchurch Seminar

2011-12-20T16:55:00.026+13:00

Here are some pictures from the Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu Karatedo Technical Seminars I conducted in Christchurch, New Zealand (on the 17th & 18th of December). You can click here to watch the video on youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LEq5nYP_iFk and here is a link to the course report: http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2011/12/karate-seminar-report-christchurch-new.html. My next seminar will be Germany... For those able to attend, don't miss out. It's going to be a great course!

Karate Seminar Report: Christchurch, New Zealand (December 2011)

2011-12-19T14:12:00.011+13:00

Over the weekend I taught Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu technical seminars here in Christchurch, New Zealand. As promised this report has been written (and video uploaded) for the attendees of the seminars.

The weekend course was focused on a number of core issues to make one’s karate effective with particular emphasis on correct distancing and timing, and the usual combination of koshi no kaiten, tai no shinshuku and junansei.

In particular, destroying the opponents balance was practiced in varied harmony with a percussive blows (using Sen no sen, Go no sen & Tai no sen).

To highlight these points, Asai Sensei’s “traditional” applications from the five Heian/Kanku-dai, Tekki, Bassai-dai, Empi & Jion were analysed. Furthermore, the koten-gata Kashu (also known as Hi no te) was taught emphasising the aforementioned self-defence principles, fluidity and natural energy. For everyone who attended, please use Kashu to improve your movement and "physical understanding". Karate must be second-nature!

Rather than doing extensive ido-kihon most of the fundamental training was done with a partner (to strongly link the techniques/principles of kata directly to jissen-kumite/goshin-jutsu). Overall, based on the feedback I've received, it was a fantastic weekend of karate-do. I hope this report, and the attached video, assists the attendees in remembering the ‘self-defence principles’ we covered. Domo arigato gozaimashita. Osu, André.

2012 Seminars in Deutschland

2011-12-18T12:38:00.001+13:00

Here is the promotional video for the seminars in Deutschland (this coming February) courtesy of Oliver and Yan Schoemburg. To avoid missing out make sure you get in early! It’s going to be a great course.

The Successor of Shuseki-Shihan Tetsuhiko Asai

2011-12-15T13:01:00.002+13:00

Some people seem to believe that I am, or are claiming to be the SUCCESSOR OF ASAI TETSUHIKO SENSEI... This is completely incorrect, I have never claimed this.

Yes, I practice Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu Karatedo, but the successors are the IJKA (http://www.ijka.jp), not Andre Bertel or any other individual (or karate group i.e. - the WJKA which falsely claims they have`the legacy of Asai Karate and have deeply offended Mrs. Keiko Asai).

Andre Bertel's Karate-Do: My training and therefore this website is dedicated to the karate of the old JKA and Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu. Logically, I practice and teach these 'martial arts approaches'. I feel deeply honored to have been Asai Sensei's deshi, and will continue to develop my skills on a daily basis... Thus, my focus is first and fore mostly on karate-geiko. I am happy to share my knowledge with those who invite me to teach at their clubs and organisations; however, I always come as "Andre Bertel the karateka", not as a representative of Asai Sensei, nor a group.

Naturally when I self-practice, train at the dojo, and teach karate classes/seminars I'm executing Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu Karatedo. Needless to say, my karate technique and karate articles are reflective of this. Nevertheless, I have never claimed to be the successor of Asai Tetsuhiko Sensei, merely an ongoing student of the karate he taught me.

OSU!

Asai-ha Shotokan Karate Technical Seminars in Christchurch

2011-12-13T16:54:00.015+13:00

This weekend I am holding technical seminars here in Christchurch. For more information click here: http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2011/11/2011-christchurch-new-zealand-technical.html

I look forward to seeing the participants on Saturday. It will be an excellent weekend of Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu karatedo training. A full report will be posted later.

For those interested in attending and have not arranged to do so, you can call me at: (021) 295-8669 or email me at: andre.mizuho@hotmail.co.jp

This course is completely open to all Shotokan Karateka regardless of affiliation.

Shotokan Karate-Do Gasshuku in Queenstown

2011-12-12T16:37:00.000+13:00

Brendon Wells kindly flew me down to Queenstown over the weekend to attend Goran Glucina Shihan’s gasshuku there. Goran Shihan (7th Dan) as I’ve said before is New Zealand’s most senior Shotokan Karateka, and the Chief Instructor of SKIF New Zealand.

I’d like to once again thank Goran Shihan for his excellent training, Brendon for taking me down, and Enomoto Shotaro Sensei (Chief Instructor of SKIF Otago) and his students for being a super hosts.

Overall, it was fantastic weekend of Karate-Do, and as always I cannot recommend Goran Shihan enough. All I can say is that if you are a Shotokan karateka in Auckland, or visiting there, his dojo is a must!

Andre Bertel Seminar: GERMANY 2012

2011-12-07T16:37:00.019+13:00

As you will know I am conducting Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu Karate-Do Technical Seminars next week here in Christchurch, New Zealand. And today I am happy to make a special announcement for the traditional karateka in Europe. During the first weekend of February (February 4th & 5th) 2012, I will be teaching OPEN SEMINARS in Ahrensburg, GERMANY.

For all details please click on the official poster (on the left). This will be a world-class event not to be missed for anyone serious about the Karate-Do of Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei. For further information please email the organisers at: tf_jazz@hotmail.com

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand 2011.

ATTENTION

2011-12-05T01:09:00.030+13:00

Here is a brief educational psychology essay I wrote last year on 'attention'. Whilst very simple, this paper provides some `basics' for karate instructors (and all other teachers) to fundamentally consider. However, before going any further, like all of my articles, do not copy or rearrange this essay for your academic assessments. It WILL be detected on 'turnitin' (https://turnitin.com/static/index.php). Needless to say, plagiarism is not acceptable under any conditions. Overall, I hope this essay will help whoever reads it to consider `attention' (insofar as optimal learning is concerned).

Introduction
The science of educational psychology is primarily concerned about the connection between the cognitive development of learners, and the environmental influence of varying pedagogies, which controllably nurture that development. Particularly useful for understanding this relationship is the information processing model which intrinsically represents the human memory system (Mayer, 2008). Fundamentally steered by the cognitive psychological approach, this essay will endeavour to analyse the critical importance of attention in the learning process. This will be achieved by explaining what attention is, how absolutely vital attention is to learn, and lastly, what some of the implications are for establishing a formal learning environment.

What educational psychology tells us about attention?
Educational psychology tells us that attention is the channelling of mental power by which we select specific stimuli from the environment. The capacity of human attention is very limited and this is why anything that does not elicit our mental focus swiftly evaporates out of the memory system, as it fails to surpass the limitations of the all-encompassing sensory register. When considering that the sensory register is constantly being bombarded by various movements, smells, sounds, tastes, feelings and so forth, it becomes readily apparent that if our attention was being shared by all incoming stimuli it would be impossible to adequately achieve any tasks (Woolfolk, 1998). Cherry and Norman (as cited in Ormrod, 2006) provide a vivid illustration of the highly limited capacity of human attention via what is sometimes referred to as the cocktail party phenomenon. In this example there are multiple conversations going on simultaneously in a room, however it is only possible for each individual to sufficiently engage in one of them. This scenario brings to light the critical issue of mental selection. Depending on the stimuli, sometimes selection is voluntarily made, yet at other times attention is involuntarily attracted. In the case where learners intentionally attend particular information, it is typically to achieve the goals, which they themselves are motivated to achieve, or things of vested interest (Fetsco & McClure, 2005). Alternatively, the involuntarily focus of our attention may be attributed to an unexpected aversive behaviour such as startling yell or obnoxious smell. Without the cognitive processing component of attention we would be unable to achieve any meaningful tasks, as this deficit would result in the inability to focus on any particularities for less than a brief moment. Attention is therefore the only means of actively selecting information absorbed from our senses, with any significant analytical depth, and for any productive length of time.

How important is attention in the learning process?
The importance of attention cannot be overemphasised as it is the initiator of all learning experiences. It is the mental vehicle which enables perception and etches information progressively further into the memory system. Ormrod (2006) explains that the first stage in the learning process is paying attention, which actively pulls mentally illuminated information into the working memory. Anything which enters the sensory register and fails to attract, or actively receive a person’s attendance, rapidly vanishes from the mind. Once stimuli have been selected from the environment by the learner’s attention, the information then perceived immediately crosses over into the working memory, which is the conscious phase of information processing. This transition is absolutely critical as the working memory is synonymous with what is commonly referred to as thinking. Without any exaggeration this highlights the vital importance of attention as the trigger for mental analysis and is thus the precursor for learning, and studious behaviour in general (Hohn, 1995). Obviously for information to be legitimately learned it must be actively processed further, taking into account the limitations of attention, perception and the working memory. The data must surpass this so-called “bottleneck of the memory system” of the initial two phases and be grooved deeply into the long-term memory. However, at all stages throughout the learning process, the role of attention works to initiate, connect and interconnect with other new and pre-existing knowledge stored in the brain (Ormrod, 2006). Due to the very limited capacity of human attention and the working memory, learning requires that information is thoroughly ingrained into the long-term memory system. Regardless of all these highly complex and interrelated cognitive factors, the learning process is always sparked by what the learner conscientiously attends to. Attention is therefore the most important aspect of the learning process, as without it, learning cannot proceed.

What does this implicate when structuring a formal learning environment?
Based on the fact that attention is the precursor of all learning, it is inherently the first priority for educators when structuring formal learning environments. This includes the arrangement of the classroom and also the pedagogy employed by teachers. A pre-instructional issue in captivating the attention of learners is the removal of distractive stimuli where the lesson is to be conducted. For example Pfiffner, Barkley, Schwebel and Cherlin (as cited in Ormrod, 2006) state that students who are less attentive may be kept in closer proximity to the teacher and likewise cohesively disruptive peers can be separated. Other comprehensive strategies such as closing doors to nullify sounds or directing the placement of unnecessary stationary inside of desks during presentations also work well to reduce distractions. In regards to the implementation of lessons Fetsco and McClure (2005) decisively advocate three broad teaching pedagogies to spark and maintain attention. The first of these is to arouse the perception of the learners by unpredictability, the second is the stimulation of curiosity, and the third is the variation of teaching activities and routines. Teachers can achieve such cognitive scaffolding by randomly asking questions and thus putting the onus on students to pay attention, encouraging note taking, and the utilisation of fascinating resources. All of these methods strongly promote a learning environment that epitomises top-down or attention controlled learning interactions. Maximising top down learning opportunities is essential in structuring formal education because it naturally develops superior cognitive skills in students and promotes self-steered learning. Lastly and certainly not least, teacher enthusiasm in the delivery of curriculum content and giving students regular “mental breathers” cannot be overlooked to catch and maintain student attention (Ormrod, 2006). Structuring a learning environment which optimises student attention implicates that educators must synthesise a finely tuned combination of dynamic instructional techniques, a well-organised classroom, and the intrinsic flexibility to adapt in accordance to the individual needs of the learners.

Conclusion
Educational psychology has long informed us that attention is literally the prerequisite for all learning, as it is the only mental process that allows us to sever through all the vast waves of stimuli, which constantly dart in and out of our sensory registers. Clearly as a result, the initiation of the information learning process completely depends on what learner’s select from their environment, and this is largely dependent upon the appropriateness, and quality of practice stimuli, which teacher’s and educational institutions are responsible for providing.

REFERENCES

Fetsco, T., & McClure, J. (2005). Educational Psychology: An Integrated Approach to Classroom Decisions. Pearson Education, Inc.

Hohn, R.L. (1998). Classroom Learning and Teaching. Longman Publishers, USA.

Mayer, R. E. (2008). Learning and Instruction. (2nd ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education Inc.

Ormrod, J. E. (2006). Educational psychology: Developing Learners. (5th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Woolfolk, A.E. (1998). Educational Psychology (7th ed.) Allyn & Bacon.

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ESSAY: Written by Andre Bertel, University of Canterbury (2010); & Photographs taken on the 5th of December, 2011.

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Karate-Do: A simple life

2011-12-04T11:44:00.009+13:00

I ran into one of my former primary/elementary school classmates who remembered me practicing karate 30 years ago. He couldn't believe I was still training. Here are a couple of random quotes that I think nicely sum up my motivation to practice three decades on (and my approach to training). I've intentionally not used the words of karateka or budoka. Also, please excuse that there is nothing too profound in here... But certainly some food for thought, which goes beyond words and steers a lifestyle. Karate-do, a simple life!

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"Don't let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do." - John Wooden

"The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather in a lack of will." - Vince Lombardi

"Pain is temporary. It may last a minute, or an hour, or a day, or a year, but eventually it will subside and something else will take its place. If I quit, however, it lasts forever." - Lance Armstrong

"Nobody's a natural. You work hard to get good and then work to get better. It's hard to stay on top." - Paul Coffey

"I'm a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work, the more I have of it." - Thomas Jefferson

I'd wrap up by saying that I could have selected a number of other quotes, but as they say "less is sometimes more". The simple life of karate-do requires action, then everything else falls perfectly into place. There is time for reflection and discussion while the body is recovering...

Our 5th Wedding Anniversary

2011-12-04T00:53:00.012+13:00

Yesterday Mizuho & I celebrated our fifth wedding anniversary here in Christchurch-City, New Zealand.

This special year we went to the Kinji Japanese Restaurant (Sushi Dining Kinji).

http://www.kinjirestaurant.com/kinji/Welcome.html. It was great to meet the owner/chief Kenji San and enjoy his great Japanese food! It was our first time there and we really enjoyed it. Overall, Mizuho and I have had a super day together. Thanks for all the well wishes from our family and friends!

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand 2011.

The Secret of Karate

2011-12-01T08:01:00.013+13:00

December is here and 2011 is rapidly coming to an end. With the seminars here in Christchurch on the 17th & 18th (http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2011/11/2011-christchurch-new-zealand-technical.html), a grading, and the annual beach training, it will be a great month of traditional karate-do.

The SECRET of good karate is found in quality practice/training. One's technique, application, and body mirrors this. Accessing high-level instruction is therefore paramount in karate. Our technique must "speak for us" before any discussion on karate begins. Otherwise valuable practice time is wasted.

THEREFORE, THE SECRET OF KARATE IS TO SHUT UP & TRAIN! There is time to talk after practice when the body is exhausted.

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand 2011.

New Karate Video on Youtube

2011-11-25T00:17:00.011+13:00

I'm admittedly very sore from training today from ample shinshuku practice. Will need to stretch plenty tomorrow morning. Here is a newly uploaded video on Youtube.

I have many projects in the works at present. The next seminar in Christchurch will be a second wave of technical aspects I've not taught openly before. `Step-by-step' I am uncovering the karate I have been taught and the critical elements required to execute it. As those who have attended my seminars and lessons know, this karate is not sports karate!

Many of the drills I've taught in past seminars (here in New Zealand, Japan, Italy, USA, Germany & Australia) serve as the introduction. Now it is time to go to the next level. As Asai Sensei always said, "Step-by-step".

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand 2011.

We never stop learning

2011-11-22T22:56:00.001+13:00

Practice, practice & more practice! Here's my updated training regime. Shodan-shinsa no tame no kihon: (1) Sanbon-zuki; (2) Jodan age-uke kara chudan mae-geri soshite chudan gyaku-zuki; (4) Chudan soto-uke kara yori-ashi (kiba-dachi) chudan yoko empi uchi, uraken yokomawashi-uchi soshite chudan gyaku-zuki; (5) Chudan shuto-uke (kokutsu-dachi) kara kizami mae-geri soshite shihon nukite; (6) Chudan uchi-uke kara jodan kizami-zuki soshite chudan gyaku-zuki; (7) Mae-geri kara mawashi-geri; (8) Mae-geri kara yoko-kekomi (same leg); (9) Yoko-keage ashi o kaete yoko-kekomi (kiba-dachi); (10) Mawashi-geri; (11) Ushiro-geri; & (12) Shuto yokomawashi-uchi.

Kata:
(a ) Empi; (b) Hangetsu; (c) Unsu; & (d) A random Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu koten-gata dependent on my daily technical focus.

Kumite:
( i) Kihon ippon kumite: Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu 14 core waza (jodan, chudan & mae-geri); & (ii) Jiyu kumite no uchikomi renshu.

In addition to the usual calistenics and impact work I've also started to do a little running again. On the weekend I went for a decent 8km run. My lungs and heart handled it easily, but the run definitely fatigued my legs (as my quads and hams were already very tired from all of my karate training). As you may know I am a very big believer in jumping exercises such as plyometrics, however I try to keep my programme varied to achieve the best results. Regardless of what one does, occassionally mixing things up is very important. We never stop learning if we "keep practicing and training"!

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand 2011.

JKA All-Japan Championships: The Golden Age

2011-11-21T00:43:00.031+13:00

The first seven Japan Karate Association (JKA) All-Japan Championships are legendary in the traditional karate world. No bouncing around in kumite or posing in kata. Unlike today the concept of ichigeki-hissatsu (a single finishing blow), was reflected in all matches and all movements. Pure Karate! Here are the results of these seven competitions. Please note I have only used Sensei for my late teacher Asai Tetsuhiko to not exhaust you with this title and for the relevance to my karate (and the karate on this blog/website). Needless to say, all of the karateka who won places in these early events are indeed "Sensei" of the highest calibre. At 28 years old in 1963, Asai Sensei won the kata at the seventh All Japan's and this was his final major event. Overall, this post not only outlines my teachers national titles, but also reflects the Golden Age of the Japan Karate Association.

THE FIRST JKA ALL-JAPAN CHAMPIONSHIPS (1957)

KUMITE
1st: Hirokazu Kanazawa
2nd: Katsunori Tsuyama
3rd: Masahide Nakamura

KATA:
1st: Hiroshi Shoji
2nd: Masaru Sakamoto
3rd: Shojiro Koyama

THE SECOND JKA ALL-JAPAN CHAMPIONSHIPS (1958)

KUMITE
1st: Hirokazu Kanazawa/Takayuki Mikami
2nd:
3rd: Masahide Nakamura
NB - No second place as there was a draw between Takayuki Mikami & Hirokazu Kanazawa. Budo not sports... So no need to give a second place!

KATA:
1st: Hirokazu Kanazawa
2nd: Takayuki Mikami
3rd: Shigeru Saito
• Hirokazu Kanazawa (First JKA Grand Champion)

THE THIRD JKA ALL-JAPAN CHAMPIONSHIPS (1959)

KUMITE
1st: Takayuki Mikami
2nd: Hirokazu Kanazawa
3rd: Masaaki Sato/Hiroshi Shirai

KATA:
1st: Takayuki Mikami
2nd: Hirokazu Kanazawa
3rd: Shigeru Saito
• Mikami (Second JKA Grand Champion)

THE FOURTH JKA ALL-JAPAN CHAMPIONSHIPS (1960)

KUMITE
1st: Masaaki Sato
2nd: Takayuki Mikami
3rd: Asai Sensei/Toru Yamaguchi

KATA:
1st: Hiroshi Shoji
2nd: Takayuki Mikami
3rd: Hirokazu Kanazawa

THE FIFTH JKA ALL-JAPAN CHAMPIONSHIPS (1961)

KUMITE
1st: Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei
2nd: Hiroshi Shirai
3rd: Takayuki Mikami/Keinosuke Enoeda

KATA:
1st: Takayuki Mikami
2nd: Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei
3rd: Hiroshi Shirai
• Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei (Third JKA Grand Champion)

THE SIXTH JKA ALL-JAPAN CHAMPIONSHIPS (1962)

KUMITE
1st: Hiroshi Shirai
2nd: Keinosuke Enoeda
3rd: Takayuki Mikami/Yutaka Yaguchi

KATA:
1st: Hiroshi Shirai
2nd: Takayuki Mikami
3rd: Toru Yamaguchi
• Hiroshi Shirai (Fourth JKA Grand Champion)

THE SEVENTH JKA ALL-JAPAN CHAMPIONSHIPS (1963)

KUMITE
1st: Keinosuke Enoeda
2nd: Hiroshi Shirai
3rd: Hirokazu Kanazawa/Yutaka Yaguchi

KATA:
1st: Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei
2nd: Toru Yamaguchi
3rd: Takeshi Nakaya

Gichin Funakoshi Sensei's 20 Precepts of Karate-Do

2011-11-20T07:00:00.000+13:00

I know you have read them numerous times before; nevertheless, each of the following '20 Precepts of Karate-Do' (written by Funakoshi Gichin Sensei) are always worthy of reflection.

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1. Karate begins with courtesy and ends with courtesy.

2. There is no first attack in Karate.

3. Karate is an aid to justice.

4. First control yourself before attempting to control others.

5. Spirit first, technique second.

6. Always be ready to release your mind.

7. Accidents arise from negligence.

8. Do not think that Karate training is only in the dojo.

9. It will take your entire life to learn Karate; there is no limit.

10. Put your everyday living into Karate and you will find "Myo" (subtle secrets).

11. Karate is like boiling water. If you do not heat it constantly, it will cool.

12. Do not think that you have to win, think rather that you do not have to lose.

13. Victory depends on your ability to distinguish vulnerable points from invulnerable ones.

14. The battle is according to how you move guarded and unguarded
(move according to your opponent).

15. Think of your hands and feet as swords.

16. When you leave home, think that you have numerous opponents waiting for you.
It is your behavior that invites trouble from them.

17. Beginners must master low stance and posture, natural body positions are for the advanced.

18. Practicing a kata is one thing, engaging in a real fight is another.

19. Do not forget to correctly apply: strength and weakness of power,
stretching and contraction of the body and slowness and speed of techniques.

20. Always think and devise ways to live the precepts every day.

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand 2011.

Kihon Hangeki Renshu video

2011-11-19T22:51:00.000+13:00

Here is a brief video on kihon hangeki renshu (basic counterattack practice). This is used for introductory jiyu-kumite training for kyu grades and can obviously employ any techniques. No combinations here, just single kizami-zuki (jab punches) and single technique counters.

I'd like to thank Brendon Wells (SKIF shodan) who is in this video. Brendon has represented New Zealand in kumite at the SKIF (Shotokan Karatedo International Federation) World Championships in Tokyo.

Some video links

2011-11-16T23:27:00.000+13:00

For other video links related to this blog please visit my youtube channel at: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum

BASE TRAINING

2011-11-16T02:00:00.000+13:00

Here is the kihon training method I presently advocate. It is very-very simple, very “Japanese style” and gets long-lasting results fast. There are no fancy combinations… There is nothing to hide behind, your posture, movement, stances, and techniques have to be effective. Make this your `daily regime’ and long combinations soon show themselves as being ‘time wasters’ (why not save that for kata?). What’s more, if you can do the core techniques properly, everything else is a breeze.

Following this routine on a daily basis under an exceptional instructor will boost one’s karate incredibly because it only deals with what really matters. In saying that, unless the trainees are vigorously monitored and corrected this routine can groove extremely bad habits. Furthermore, the offensive techniques must be all practiced with full power against a target such as the heavy bag. This has been talked about in my past posts, so I will not address it today.

Practice method & repetitions: Practice each technique in a stationary stance then on the move. In both scenarios start with at least ten slow repetitions and then follow this with at least thirty repetitions with maximum snap. Regardless of speed, the count shouldn’t be too fast. This is to ensure that techniques are practiced fully and that continuity of motion doesn’t not interfere with the decisiveness of techniques (please note that ido-kihon is in zenkutsu-dachi unless otherwise noted).

So here we go...

1. Stationary: Chudan choku-zuki from shizentai (hachinoji-dachi or heiko-dachi).
2. Ido-kihon: Chudan oi-zuki or sambon-zuki.
3. Stationary: Migi then hidari chudan gyaku-zuki in hidari & migi zenkutsu-dachi.
4. Ido-kihon: Chudan gyaku-zuki.
5. Stationary: Jodan age-uke.
6. Ido-kihon: Jodan age-uke kara chudan gyaku-zuki.
7. Stationary: Chudan soto-uke.
8. Ido-kihon: Chudan soto-uke kara chudan gyaku-zuki or yori-ashi yoko empi-uchi (defending in zenkutsu-dachi then driving forward with yori ashi into kiba-dachi).
9. Stationary: Chudan uchi-uke.
10. Ido-kihon: Chudan uchi-uke kara chudan gyaku-zuki.
11. Stationary: Gedan-barai.
12. Ido-kihon: Gedan-barai kara chudan gyaku-zuki.
13. Stationary: Chudan shuto-uke in migi & hidari renoji-dachi.
14. Ido-kihon: Chudan shuto-uke kara nukite (driving forward into zenkutsu-dachi from kokutsu-dachi).
15. Stationary: Chudan mae-geri in heisoku-dachi.
16. Stationary: Migi then hidari chudan mae-geri in hidari & migi zenkutsu-dachi.
17. Ido-kihon: Chudan mae-geri or chudan mae-geri kara chudan oi-zuki or ren-geri.
18. Stationary: Chudan mawashi geri (alternate legs from shizentai landing in zenkutsu-dachi then stepping back into shizentai).
19. Ido-kihon: Chudan mawashi-geri.
20. Stationary: Ushiro-geri (alternate legs from heisoku-dachi rearward landing in zenkutsu-dachi then stepping forward into shizentai).
21. Ido-kihon: Ushiro-geri.
22. Stationary: Yoko-keage in heisoku-dachi.
23. Stationary: Yoko-kekomi in heisoku-dachi
24. Ido-kihon: Yoko-keage (single technique training with kosa-aiyumibashi in kiba-dachi or yoko keage ashi o kaete yoko-kekomi).
25. Ido-kihon: Yoko-kekomi (kosa-aiyumibashi in kiba-dachi or in zenkutsu-dachi).

Supplement this kihon (and the aforementioned impact training) with the eleven kihon-gata (the five Heian, Junro and Tekki-shodan) and kihon kumite (Gohon & Kihon Ippon Kumite). The main point is "TO KEEP KIHON PRACTICE SIMPLE"; therefore, always remember "the biggest asset of kihon training is simplicity". Overall, when working on the `advanced' kata and kumite the more simple and perfect your kihon-geiko is, the better your karate will become.

WJKA Kata Kyohan

2011-11-15T01:23:00.006+13:00

IMPORTANT NOTIFICATION: IJKA Does not support the book KATA KYOHAN which was made by self-graded 8th Dan's Mr. Kousaku Yokota and Mr. Jan Knobel.

As you may well be aware they head their own group called WJKA, which is known worldwide for its terrible karate standard (if you check youtube you will find Yokota & Knobel's kata... Yokota has clearly learned Seiryu from my video and has turned the kata into a 90 year old's chicken dance. Please compare the two, one is a fighting kata, the other is a lame looking 'floppy'). IF YOU CAN'T SEE THE WHAT IS REAL KARATE & WHAT IS BS HERE, YOU ARE BLIND... I am not talking athletics here, but the form for application. From beginning to end is not how Asai Sensei taught nor applied this kata. All haito strikes are wrong and the final technique haito uchi (haito hasami uchi) is like two nukite...

Here is "SHIHAN" Yokota's lame copy...

Both Mr. Kousaku Yokota and Mr. Jan Knobel's poor technical standards have now been supplemented by the height of rudeness to Mrs. Asai. Please check the following links:

IJKA Japan (Mrs. Keiko Asai): http://www.ijka.jp/en/topics/index.html#045

IJKA Europe (Bruno Koller Shihan): http://www.karate-asai-ryu.com/

As you know this blog is about my practice of Asai Sensei's karate (Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu); nevertheless, "the official organisation" directing Asai Karate is the INTERNATIONAL JAPAN KARATEDOKAI ASAI-RYU.

For all people interested in ASAI KARATE, IJKA is THE ONLY OFFICIAL ORGANISATION; therefore, only the IJKA hold the LEGACY OF ASAI SENSEI'S KARATE.

Obsession with form

2011-11-12T19:31:00.009+13:00

There are two broad problems amongst karate practitioners: The first is “poor technical form”; and the second is “obsession with form”. While these are at opposite ends of the scale, they both result in ineffective karate.

Problem one – OBSESSION WITH FORM: Obsession with form is the problem which most, if not all mainstream Japanese organisations typically have. What happens is that they are so consumed by form that they spend too much time on cosmetics as opposed to making their karate effective. Of course, karateka should always be seeking better form, but form has purpose and this purpose is to achieve effectiveness within the context of the style one does i.e. – Shotokan, Shito-ryu, Goju-ryu, Wado-ryu etc. A great example is Mikio Yahara Sensei who is known for his stiff ankles. His back foot in zenkutsu-dachi cannot go much beyond 45 degrees and his kokutsu-dachi rear foot simply doesn’t get to that 'textbook ideal' 90 degree angle… Needless to say, he still has wonderful karate. I can personally relate to this (with my stiff ankles) and similarly have never found it to lessen my effectiveness (note my kizami-zuki photo from todays training). A fellow instructor once said to me "you can't do zenkutsu-dachi with your rear foot at that angle". So I replied by saying "you think about my rear ankle while swallowing your own teeth". My question is when did zenkutsu-dachi and other karate techniques/movements/stances become so obsessive?

Another example is of course is my late instructor, the legendary Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei, who was limited by his small frame. People criticise the continuity of his movements, but this is how he made his karate work for himself.

Obviously, this doesn’t mean we can just settle for lapses in our form or personal abilities. The art of karate is to constantly seek `personal perfection’… Not obsessively but with application in mind. Moreover, SOME THINGS DO MATTER AND MUST BE DONE otherwise our karate will be useless. For example the correct use of kokyu (breathing), tai no shinshuku (contraction and expansion of the body), koshi no kaiten (rotation of the waist) etc. Someone like Asai Sensei could break a damp hardwood board a foot behind his head (without utilising his waist); thus, to copy his favoured small-scale hip action would clearly be foolish…

Problem two – POOR TECHNICAL FORM: Poor technical form means “incorrect form and ineffectiveness”. Incorrect form is `style based’ and ‘ineffectiveness’ is dependent on one’s ability to apply techniques. In the case of smaller people, we must develop ways to make up for our smaller body mass and strength. And for bigger people, often speed is an issue. Of course, these are mere generalisations… We all know big people who are very fast and small people who are amazingly strong. My point is that poor technical form is not only about form but its relationship with physicality. If you want to discuss correct positioning and movement compare the greats i.e. – Sensei’s Asai, Kase, Enoeda, Yahara, Osaka, Imura, Ueki, Tanaka etc. They are all different but the important points are the same and all of them have or had destructive karate-waza.

Karate is about GOING WITH WHAT YOU HAVE GOT / OPTIMISING WHAT YOU HAVE! Not settling for less, but aiming to have the best technique you can. The secret is to not be obsessed with form but rather use form as a vehicle to optimise the application of your techniques. Asai Tetsuhiko Sensei once said “Kihon is for kumite, kata is for kumite and kumite is for kumite”. His point was that while karate is an art as opposed to a sport, it is first and fore-mostly a MARTIAL ART.

BUJUTSU KARATE

2011-11-11T18:42:00.026+13:00

Every moment of traditional karate training is technically dedicated to effectiveness, that is, effective application in jissen-kumite (as opposed to karate dojo kumite or a competition). This puts us traditional karateka in a relatively unique position insofar as modern karate is concerned. Asai Sensei faced this as well, so he created the IJKA to exclusively focus on his `bujutsu karate'.

I've trained my waza to cause maximum damage as this is what Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei said was necessary to retain the "traditional" martial art of karate as techniques must have "the capacity to fracture the blocking arm or leg of the opponent-even without effort". Without this critical focus, regardless of label, one has 'Sports Karate'. And sports karate is a VERY LAME FORM OF BOXING.

Nowadays, if one doesn't do kata to perform them nicely, or kumite to merely snatch points, the fact is, they are no longer doing mainstream karate. Obviously, this is very sad - a blurred shadow of `martial arts karate'. Nevertheless, if you have read my blog over the last four years, karate is not only about ichigeki-hissatsu, but also a healthy body and mind, reisetsu/reigi-saho, amongst other things. Yes, karate can be for everyone, but is not for everyone.

THE DAILY GRIND WHICH IS BEHIND THIS BLOG IS WHAT IT IS ALL ABOUT - MAKE THIS DAILY TRAINING YOUR OWN! This blog is about my training and YOU, the reader, and how YOU TRAIN. That is why this blog is different - there is sweat, blisters, some blood and the occasional fracture behind my writing. No one (including myself) should be satisfied with their karate. All karateka must continue to push forward with a beginners mind whilst constantly seeking ichigeki-hissatsu from the various waza.

2011 Christchurch, New Zealand KARATEDO TECHNICAL SEMINARS

2011-11-10T11:38:00.000+13:00

The time is nearing to this years technical seminars in Christchurch.

For all information please contact me directly at andre.mizuho@hotmail.co.jp

Balancing strength & flexibility

2011-11-05T11:51:00.014+13:00

Balancing strength and flexibility is very important for all physical activities, especial for martial arts such as karate where one is training to protect themselves. Without enough muscle power, karate is limited. Likewise, one's technical array is lessened without flexibility.

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When training at the JKS Honbu the instructors were intimidated by my sheer strength. This really shows the importance of impact power. I was no Scott Langely, I was a highly conditioned karateka and professional security consultant with years of real fights under my belt, who was also a professional karateka.

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This clearly shocked the JKS Tokyo honbu instructors as sheer strength to cause damage was never a focus there, only explosiveness to look sharp and score points was. I was not a punch bag, and was extremely dangerous for the instructors health. Funnily enough I was often told to `take it easy' in kumite and I of course I did... I was there for training. But if they roughed it up, I'd happily oblige them. They quickly learned! Of course Asai Sensei loved it.

TO THE LIMIT

2011-10-30T23:52:00.023+13:00

I've had a wonderful week of relaxing balanced by some very hard training. It is just so great to finally have some free time! Early in the week I started catching a cold but fortunately I managed to "sweat it out".

Practice of kata Kanku-dai and Unsu along with Asai Sensei's awesome oyo/bunkai-jutsu for these kata was the highlight of the weekend trainings. Kankudai is the DAI-ICHI KATA OF SHOTOKAN-RYU and cannot be emphasised enough. Whilst the "advanced" Unsu (stolen and adapted from Shito-Ryu) is the most complex formal exercise of the standard 26 Shotokan kata.

Wrapping up both Saturday and Sunday sessions with several hundred mae-geri and gyaku-zuki and I'm ready to blast into November! Practice, practice and more practice is certainly needed! I have some big targets before the end of the year; however, regardless of whether or not I achieve them, I will push my body, mind and spirit to the limit.
© André Bertel (2011). Christchurch, New Zealand.

The difference between sports and traditional (martial arts) karate

2011-10-27T15:58:00.025+13:00

The right combination and use of kihon (fundamentals), kata (formal exercises), bunkai/oyo-jutsu (analysis/technical applications), and kumite (sparring), is prerequisite for karate to be the unparalleled martial art of self-defence it is was made to be.

Nevertheless, as Asai Sensei always said, most karateka fail to do enough impact work and oyo. "Most people merely do sports karate". So much so that Asai Sensei formed one organisation for sports-focused karate (JKS) and one for his personal "martial arts karate" (IJKA). Many of you will remember the article I wrote in 2007 on "Air Karate" (if not, you can read it here: http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2007/11/air-karate.html) and more recently a post on "oyo"
(click here: http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2011/03/real-kata-is-ruled-by-oyo.html). There have been numerous other articles in relation to these topics, but because this is merely a blog, I've not provided specific explanations. Naturally, I'll keep it this way because this knowledge is for my students around the world, guests who visit the dojo to sweat, and for my hosts when I'm invited to conduct technical seminars.

Overall, unless one has a complete system of training, as explained above, their karate will never be optimally functional. This is what clearly establishes the difference between sports and traditional (martial arts) karate.

Kumite

2011-10-26T14:47:00.004+13:00

Many new articles and videos are on the way, but until then, here is a short kumite video. Please feel free to make some comments! Best wishes from Christchurch, New Zealand.

Tokui-gata evaluation

2011-10-25T09:05:00.018+13:00

Currently I am reflecting on my tokui-gata (specialised kata) and are making some evaluative changes.

Some words of advice: In traditional karate "Tokui-gata is often not the kata individuals like, but rather, what is optimal for them in real-world application".

Kata must physically reflect bujutsu (martial arts). It is a facet of practice that compliments kihon, kumite & impact work. Based on this training one must constantly adapt. This is critical if one desires to maximise their karatedo.

My seminar schedule for the next 12 months

2011-10-24T01:54:00.012+13:00

Besides the seminars in December this year (click on the poster below) I am available throughout January and the first two weeks of February 2012. After that time, I will be unable to conduct any seminars until late November 2012 at the earliest. Please note the following schedule:

ANDRE BERTEL (6th DAN) SEMINAR SCHEDULE

- November 2011: FREE

- December 2011: Seminar from the second week in Christchurch, New Zealand (+ special instructors training & dan examination).
- January 2012: FREE.

- February 2012: FREE for the first two weeks.

- Late February 2012 until late November 2012 UNAVAILABLE

If you wish to arrange a course or to visit New Zealand for training you can email me directly at: andre.mizuho@hotmail.co.jp

© André Bertel (2011). Christchurch, New Zealand

Typical kihon-geiko

2011-10-23T11:29:00.022+13:00

There are literally numerous ways to approach kihon-geiko (fundamental training) in karatedo, however here is a basic outline of what I use (based on the numerous times I lived and trained in Japan through during my teens, 20's, and 30's). Rather than just giving some lists, I've also included some "typical repetitions" in the average class. There is nothing special here, just the norm, but as we all know "karate circulates"... So perhaps there is something here that might make you think "hey, I haven't done that in a while". If so, that's great! Anyway, well away from the norm, tonight the New Zealand All-Blacks play in the Rugby World Cup final, so after a hard karate training it will be an exciting evening (and "special age-uke" practice). Take care and train hard! OSU

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STATIONARY KIHON
Perform each technique in 10 times slowly then 30-50 times with maximum snap whilst maintaining precise form. Please note: Although not included, it is customary to also practice other techniques here (i.e. - the various attacks with uraken, kentsui, shuto, empi/hiji, haito, yama-zuki, ushiromawashi-geri etc.). However, the following kihonwaza are most typical.

Shinzentai
1. Chudan choku-zuki
2. Jodan choku-zuki
3. Sanbon-zuki
4. Chudan oi-zuki
5. Jodan age-uke
6. Chudan soto-uke
7. Chudan uchi-uke
8. Gedan-barai
9. Chudan-shuto-uke
Heisoku-dachi
10. Mae-geri
11. Yoko-keage
12. Yoko-kekomi
13. Mawashi-geri
14. Ushiro-geri

Zenkutsu-dachi
15. Migi gyaku-zuki
16. Hidari gyaku-zuki
17. Hidari kizami-zuki kara migi chudan gyaku-zuki
18. Migi kizami-zuki kara hidari chudan gyaku-zuki
19. Migi mae-geri
20. Hidari mae-geri
IDO KIHON

Each technique should be executed at least four times in both directions slowly then repeated at full pace (at least the same amount of times). Again, without maintenance of exact form, training is counterproductive. Once more, please note that the following set is based on my current practice, naturally this changes; nevertheless, the formula is very standard i.e. - ren zuki, the basic ukewaza followed by hangeki, and keriwaza or ren geri.

1. Sanbon-zuki
2. Jodan age-uke kara chudan gyaku-zuki
3. Chudan soto-uke kara yoko empi-uchi, uraken soshite chudan gyaku-zuki
4. Chudan uchi-uke kara kizami-zuki soshite gyaku-zuki
5. Tenshin gyaku-zuki: Kaiten shinagara gedan-barai kara chudan gyaku-zuki
6. Chudan shuto-uke kara mae-ashi mae-geri soshite shihon nukite
7. Chudan mae-ashi mae-geri kara jodan mae-geri
8. Chudan mae-ashi mawashi-geri kara jodan mawashi-geri
9. Ushiro-geri kara uraken soshite chudan gyaku-zuki
10. Yoko-keage ashi o kaete yoko-kekomi
© André Bertel (2011). Christchurch, New Zealand.

The home of Shotokan in the South Island

2011-10-21T02:30:00.000+13:00

There has been some super training sessions over the last few weeknights.

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Tonight we ran through Bassai-sho, Jitte, Hangetsu, Gankaku, Meikyo and Gojushiho-sho. Then jiyu-kumite "shikake-waza", Bassai-dai and sections of Junro-nidan kata were practiced in the general class.

Yesterday, merely high repetitions of stationary kizami-zuki kara gyaku-zuki and mae-geri (migi & hidari zenkutsu-dachi).

And the day before that it was extensive ido-kihon and the five Heian kata, Tekki-shodan, Junro-shodan, & Bassai-dai.

Monday was focused on impact training and some oyo (application) principles from the kata.

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Besides being the home of Asai-ryu in New Zealand, the Christchurch Karate Club is truly unparalleled in the South Island, insofar as traditional Shotokan Karate is concerned. It is not the best Shotokan club in the South Island, it is the only one!

TABOU NA MAINICHI

2011-10-01T22:16:00.008+13:00

To say my schedule has been hectic lately would be an absolute understatement. However, at the end of this month I will amp up my articles and posts in general. Thanks to everyone for the messages from around the world. I really appreciate them!

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Some people have asked about the seminars I'll be conducting here in December. All I will say at the moment is that this Christchurch event will be very special. Below are some direct links to previous courses I've taught including in last year in Christchurch & Palmerston North (New Zealand); Ahrensurg & Hamburg (Germany); Lignano Sabbiadoro & Mira (Venice, Italy); Western Australia and Tokyo (Japan).
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Nevertheless, this seminar will very different as I will be unveiling higher levels of Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu Karatedo. As Sensei always said "Step-by-step".
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The only way forward is with the humble mind of a beginner

2011-09-24T22:35:00.014+12:00

Training is going well at present with special emphasis on the correct contrasting of the fundamental Heian, Junro and Joko kata; thereby, positively influencing kihon and kumite. Overall, the focus remains on the things that matter to achieve ichigeiki-hissatsu, as opposed to merely `scoring points' or 'looking pretty'. On the whole, the key lesson remains: that is, simple is best, and no matter how long or hard one trains, the only way forward is with the humble mind of a beginner. Osu, André Bertel.

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CURRENT TRAINING REGIME:

Kihon
1. (Jiyu-dachi) Tobi-konde jodan kizami-zuki kara sanbon-zuki.
2. (Jiyu-dachi) Tobi-konde jodan kizami-zuki kara chudan mae-geri soshite jodan oi-zuki.
3. (Kiba-dachi) Kosa-aiyumiashi yoko-keage ashi o kaete yoko-kekomi.
4. Ippo-sagatte jodan age-uke kara mawashi-geri, yoko uraken-uchi soshite chudan oi-zuki.
5. Chudan ushiro-geri kara yoko uraken-uchi soshite chudan gyaku-zuki.
6. Sonoba ren-geri: Mae-geri kara yoko-geri soshite ushiro-geri (migi/hidari).

Kata & Bunkai/Oyo-jutsu
Monday: Heian-shodan, Junro-shodan & Junro-issei.
Tuesday: Heian-nidan, Junro-nidan & Joko-nisei.
Wednesday: Heian-sandan, Junro-sandan & Joko-sansei.
Thursday: Heian-yondan, Junro-yondan & Joko-yonsei.
Friday: Heian-godan, Junro-godan & Joko-gosei.

Jokyu gohon-kumite & Jiyu ippon-kumite
Application of the five Joko kata.

* Saturday & Sunday practices are presently `free-training' (no set schedule) i.e. - tokui-gata & jiyu-kumite.

ASAI KARATE SEMINARS IN CHRISTCHURCH

2011-09-21T22:36:00.000+12:00

I will be conducting a weekend of clinics in December (Saturday the 17th & Sunday the 18th). Click on the poster to enlarge for more details or you can email me directly at: andre.mizuho@hotmail.co.jp

© André Bertel (2011). Christchurch, New Zealand.

Christchurch IJKA Shotokan Karate videos on youtube

2011-09-07T20:00:00.009+12:00

Another video has just been uploaded on youtube. The link is below. For other video's you can check out my official youtube channel at: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhee

PS - Congratulations to the three who passed the kyu-shinsa last night. Well done!

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand (2011).

Weekend in Amberley

2011-09-04T23:10:00.014+12:00

Mizuho and I went on holiday over the weekend and copped the very best weather one could imagine in winter! We travelled to and stayed in the rural town Amberley just north of Christchurch. Drenching in sun and enjoying the beautiful Canterbury countryside, we particularly enjoyed our time at both the Waipara Springs and Pegasus Bay wineries. The combination of delicious cuisine and New Zealand’s very best vino, accompanied by the warm sunshine, was nothing less than magnificent.

My morning practice was glorious under the amazingly clear stars. Who could not resist pausing in the openings of Kanku-dai and Kakuyoku-shodan? What an amazingly beautiful country New Zealand is!

© André Bertel (2011). Christchurch, New Zealand.

Latest self-practice routine

2011-09-01T01:15:00.009+12:00

Hasn't 2011 been a lightning fast year… Can you believe it’s already September? Here’s is my latest self-practice regime. At present the Joko series of kata have been pivotal for my technical refinement. They really are superb for polishing one’s kihon, unveiling any errors which inevitably exist in your karate, and subsequently scaffold some very innovative applications which you can capitalise on in kumite. At present training has been productive, tough and enjoyable. So really I couldn't ask for more. Best wishes, André.

KiIHON: (1) Sanbon-zuki; (2) Jodan kizami-zuki kara chudan mae-geri soshite jodan oi-zuki; (3) Mawashi-geri kara gyaku-zuki; (4) Ushiro-geri kara uraken-uchi soshite gyaku-zuki; (5) Ren-geri: Mae geri kara mawashi geri, yoko kekomi, ushiro-geri soshite gyaku mawashi-geri; (6) Ren-geri: Yoko-keage ashi o kaete yoko-kekomi; (7) Jodan age-uke kara mawashi-geri, yoko uraken-uchi soshite chudan oi-zuki; (8) Chudan soto-uke kara yori-ashi (kiba-dachi) yoko empi-uchi, uraken-uchi soshite chudan gyaku-zuki; (9) Gedan barai kara chudan uchi-uke (neko-ashi dachi) soshite chudan gyaku-zuki; & (10) Chudan shuto-uke (kokutsu-dachi) kara mae-geri soshite nukite.

KUMITE: Primarily jiyu-kumite with emphasis on attacking with ukewaza; counter-kicking; and a mix of ‘jolting’ attacks with tsukiwaza, and cutting attacks with various uchiwaza (please refer to the five Joko kata for technical specifics).
KATA: (Standard Shotokan-ryu kata) Heian-yondan & godan; Kanku-dai, Tekki-sandan; and Unsu. (Asai-ryu kata) Joko-nisei, sansei, yonsei & gosei; and Kaze no te (Hushu).

PS - IJKA New Zealand Honbu Dojo, here in Christchurch, is having a kyu-shinsa this Saturday; therefore, I’ll take this opportunity to offer my best wishes to everyone attempting to advance in grade.

Interview translated in Spanish

2011-08-30T10:45:00.009+12:00

Víctor López Bondía of Spain has just translated my interview (that was published in 'The Shotokan Way' online magazine) into Spanish. I am glad that Shotokan Karateka in Spain are studying Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu Karatedo. Again, thank you very much Victor for wanting to translate and publish my interview on your site.

Here's a link: http://www.shotokankaratedo.es/lectura_tsw_entrevista_andre_bertel.php

5th ASAI SENSEI MEMORIAL - IJKA New Zealand (Part Two)

2011-08-24T19:27:00.004+12:00

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand (2011).

5th ASAI SENSEI MEMORIAL - IJKA New Zealand (Part One)

2011-08-23T21:33:00.012+12:00

The 5th IJKA (International Japan Karate Asai-ryu) New Zealand Memorial was held in Christchurch, a week postponed due to the record level snow storm which hit the city. Nevertheless, the memorial went ahead tonight. Here's a brief outline of the practice:
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Kihon: Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu ashi-ukewaza; tenshin choku-zuki; and Sensei's standard IJKA ido-kihon.

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Kumite: 'Bujutsu' jiyu-kumite, Sambon-kumite & Kihon-ippon kumite.

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Kata: IJKA Heian & Tekki-shodan, Junro & Kakuyoku. Junro kata were trained in the way which Asai Sensei taught them, which is now sadly near extinction. It was emphasised that these kata coupled, with the five Joko, are for 'martial arts' kihon and should not just be 'more kata to learn'. They must be taught, trained and applied correctly!

Embu: Also some of Asai Sensei's muchiken and tenshin waza were displayed with pinpoint control exhibiting enormous power, and vividly illustrating that Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu is extremely unique in the Karate World.

This years Asai Sensei memorial was a spirit felt training and a truly wonderful tribute to Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei here in Aotearoa New Zealand. To conclude fittingly, here is an article on Asai Sensei's karate: http://www.ijka.jp/cn/master/media/media014.html

Different flowers

2011-08-20T00:58:00.009+12:00

A common question which people ask me is “Why are the masters of Shotokan so different?” For example, Asai Sensei, Kanazawa Sensei and Tanaka Sensei… And "do you think your teacher Mr. Asai was the best?"

Let me answer this metaphorically. Think of different flowers in a garden, which you plant in the same soil, and give the same water and nutrients to. Of course they grow differently, even if they are the same types of flowers. Nevertheless, the underlying fundamentals remain the same.

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The JKA masters were all nurtured by Nakayama Sensei, but are all very different. Their technical appeal is dependent on one's preferences, and for the martial artist, this preference is determined by combat effectiveness relevant to oneself.

New Zealand TETSUHIKO ASAI SENSEI Memorial Training

2011-08-15T00:01:00.008+12:00

Five years ago today my late karate teacher, the legendary Shotokan master, Shuseki-Shihan TETSUHIKO ASAI (10th Dan) passed away. It is so hard to fathom that Sensei departed from us half a decade ago... Here in Christchurch-City, we will be conducting the 5th Annual Asai Tetsuhiko Memorial Training in honour of Sensei.
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The official New Zealand Tetsuhiko Asai Memorial Training report will be published in the coming days on here. Until then, I've placed a new upload on youtube, featuring some of my memories with Sensei (link below).

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My Philosophy is Karate-Do

2011-08-13T00:01:00.005+12:00

My Philosophy is Karate-Do
I currently have an assignment questioning "what is my philosophy?" Needless to say, after 30 years of practice, my life philosophy is centred on Karate-Do: the Way of Empty Hand.

I thought the best means to express this, is by video, as opposed to merely words alone.

Karate-Do as an educative means of human development: Beyond technique, Karate-Do is centred on overcoming oneself through self-realization. The meaning of empty hand is therefore not merely implying that Karate-Do is an 'unarmed' form of self-defence, but rather a vehicle for constantly emptying one's cup to accommodate new, or refined knowledge. Furthermore, contained within this is the development of zanshin or total awareness.

The belt system in Karate-Do is representative of lifetime learning: From white to black belt. Years after attaining the coveted black belt, your belt slowly fades, returning to white. This is symbolic of the never-ending cycle which the Japanese refer to as "Shoshin wasuru bekarazu" which roughly translates as "always maintain a beginners mind". By doing this we further polish our own skills, whilst being more equipped to help others, as fellow learners (what my late teacher Tetsuhiko Asai refer to a being a "permanent student"), and as instructors.
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From a broader educational standpoint this is very similar to Paulo Freire’s concept of a lifetime of action and reflection or praxis. Roberts (1998) explains “Knowing for Freire is a permanent process of discovery – of searching, investigating, enquiring and probing” (p. 99).
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This is the essence of all forms of human development, and encompasses the essence of Karate-Do; therefore, this is my philosophy.

References:
Roberts, P. (1998). Knowledge, dialogue and humanization: the moral philosophy of Paulo Freire. Journal of Educational Thought, 32(2), pp. 95-117.

Updated training regime

2011-08-06T15:31:00.014+12:00

Here's the latest training regime. My schedule has been utterly hectic recently, but nevertheless, I've made some major breakthroughs. As Asai Sensei always elucidated "Step-by-step". Karate is truly an endless journey, so you have to make the most of travelling part. Osu!

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Kihon: (1) Chudan oi-zuki; (2) Chudan gyaku-zuki; (3) Age-uke; (4) Age-uke kara gyaku-zuki; (5) Soto-uke; (6) Soto-uke kara yori-ashi empi, uraken soshite gyaku-zuki; (7) Uchi-uke; (8) Uchi-uke kara kizami-zuki soshite gyaku-zuki; (9) Gedan-barai; (10) Gedan-barai kara gyaku-zuki; (11) Shuto-uke; (12) Shuto-uke kara nukite; (13) Mae-geri; (14) Mawashi-geri; (15) Ren-geri: Mae-geri kara mawashi-geri; (16) Yoko-keage; (17) Yoko-kekomi; & (18) Ushiro-geri. {Special emphasis on `strong weapon-soft limbs' and 'leading with the hips'}.

Kumite: Variations of sambon, kihon-ippon & jiyu-ippon kumite (with application of the Junro kata: tai sabaki "seamlessly combined" with linear and rotational counterattacks).

Kata: Heian, Junro, Tekki & Unsu with special focus as per kihon & kumite.

Practice Karate!

2011-07-29T00:49:00.011+12:00

Here’s a quote I’ve taken from Blakemore & Frith (2005), which I thought would be beneficial for karateka. Read this through a couple of times… It is not profound but definitely food for thought, and the reason why practice is essential. This is the case regardless of experience, rank, technical skill etc.

“Professional musicians have to practice for many hours a day, however skilled they already are. So, there is no resting on your laurels even when you have achieved a high degree of skill and after clear changes in the brain can be demonstrated. A recent study, carried out by Arne May and colleagues at the University of Regensburg, Germany, scanned people’s brains before and after they had learned to juggle. The brains of people who learned to juggle, practicing with three balls at least one minute a day for three months, had changed. Two regions had increased in size-the mid temporal area and the left posterior interparietal sulus, which both process visual motion information. But three months later, during which time the people stopped juggling, these regions had returned to their normal size”.

Hence my advice is practice, and keep practicing! Osu, André.

Post snow storm photos

2011-07-26T18:28:00.005+12:00

Here are some post Christchurch snow storm photos from this evening!

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Training was cancelled at the IJKA New Zealand Honbu Dojo (based at CPIT) so instead it was shovelling snow followed by the Tekki and Kibaken kata, and calisthenics (kihoken styled squats, and a variety of push ups & abdominal crunches).

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand (2011).

Christchurch Snow Storm

2011-07-26T09:38:00.008+12:00

Here in Christchurch, New Zealand, snow is a novelty, so yesterdays snowfall (which was the biggest in 15 years) was nice to experience.The city went into lock down, so we were 'forced' to have a snow filled holiday.

With all the earthquakes and thousands of aftershocks, since last September, the funniest comment yesterday was "this is the icing on the quake"... By the way, here's a bit of `snow related' trivia. The Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu kata 'Rantai' was originally called 'Ransetsu' which is the name I still use (unless talking with others who only know of it as 'Rantai'). Ransetsu beautifully implies that the movements in the kata mimic the disorderliness of snow fall.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy these chilly photos. They are dedicated to my family, friends, karate seniors, juniors and students back in Japan, who are now suffering from the heat and humidity!

OSU!

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand (2011).

Group training verses individual training

2011-07-23T09:37:00.010+12:00

One of the things I stress is the combination of group and individual practice. Group training is valuable for obvious reasons such as motivation and kumite. Individual training is where you practice aspects which are self-specific such as ironing out weak points, improving your tokui-waza etc. Again stating the obvious, group training and self-practice compliment each other and produce superior results than either `type' in isolation.

Many people of course simply do not have the time to do both types of training, and in this case, it depends largely on the level of the karateka in question. My advice in solving this issue is to weigh up the pro's and con's. In my case for example, the only Shotokan dojo I train with in Christchurch are IJKA clubs, that is because the karate is correct! Elsewhere would be detrimental for my practice. So without IJKA in Christchurch, I'd simple settle for doing extra self-training.

Ideal scenarios rarely exist, so the key is to make the most of what you have at any given time. That way, regardless of where you are, and how busy your schedule is, you will always make the most of your training time and optimise your skills based on your situation.
© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand (2011).

The void between theory & practice

2011-07-15T09:50:00.010+12:00

Many people nowadays over-think their karate rather than using their mind as merely a rudder to direct training. It is true without theory/knowledge, we are simply floating around (that is, we can never maximise our technical potential and applications). Quite simply theory/knowledge is the compass, not the journey! Theory is only useful in karate when it is beneficial for physical practice of these aspects, and when training is the dominant realm of one's karate. Too many people get theoretically hung up on insignificant details. These details are fine, but why not practice techniques in multiple ways? Find out by "doing", and discover what works best and how through sweat and blisters...

Focus on actual training then think "how can I improve my karate?" but avoid thinking too much without accompanying your thoughts with actual practice. This is one of the ideologies I've had from youth, and is something which needless to say, is of great value.

This information age makes everything so accessible, nevertheless, I believe it can (and does) also result in creating people who mentally understand, but physically cannot do. With training being dominant, this fog can be blown away, and your karate can improve through the productive combination of practice and theoretical understanding. This WILL be reflected in your tangible skills!

Martial Arts Fads

2011-07-11T17:45:00.014+12:00

I just wanted make a CORRECTION on a recent article and apologise for my lack of clearly explaining my points. It sounded like I was insinuating that "ALL OTHER MARTIAL ARTS ARE JUST FADS", which is by no means my view. No one has complained about this, but I did receive a very kind email from Germany offering a correction and seeking clarification... Hence this post! Here's a link to the article, which I stand corrected on: http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2011/07/rhinoceros-mouth-in-dojo.html

I have close friends who practice all forms of martial arts including Muay Thai, Western Boxing, Jujitsu, you name it. I respect these (actually all) arts/styles fully, and enjoy doing kumite with elite instructors/practitioners from other disciplines. Therefore, my negative thoughts are based on individuals/groups who merely cash in on fads, and propagate low technical standards/application. The article linked above failed to clarify this... It is an example of the speed at which I produce my posts (I give myself a MAXIMUM of 20 minutes to blast them out, to avoid wasting valuable time infront of the computer)... In this case my views were not presented correctly. I think this really clarifies how the text on the internet (cyber karate) can be dangerous, and is not the same as discussing with me in person after a hard practice in the dojo.

The KARATE FAD: I should briefly mention here, there was also a karate fad when the JKA expanded massively, and this was the 'Golden Age of Shotokan Karate', so fads are not necessarily a negative thing!

Moreover, Shotokan karate is probably the worst culprit for McDojo's, even amongst those affiliated to Japan (this certainly is a phenomenon here in Christchurch, New Zealand). I'd like to conclude by thanking Stanley Ryoichi Surjono, student of Akio Nagai Shihan, who contacted me! I deeply appreciated your message and your correction. Osu!

Asai Sensei Video

2011-07-10T21:15:00.006+12:00

I was emailed this nice video, dedicated to my late karate teacher, Shuseki-Shihan Tetsuhiko Asai (10th Dan). Thanks Darren for the compilation and for kindly asking me to upload it here. Be sure to check out Darren's other great karate videos as well. Osu!
© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand (2011).

Rhinoceros mouth in the Dojo

2011-07-10T14:56:00.020+12:00

Karate-Do is such an interesting art, which needlessly to say, surpasses trends such as the current MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) fad, likewise the previous Jujitsu fad, Muay Thai fad, 80's Ninjitsu fad and 70's Kung Fu fad. It has depth and is not merely a current trend.

Such `arts' are usually just "fad's" with no depth. Nevertheless, what is known as `traditional/martial arts karate' is now so hard to find, especially under a superb sensei with high knowledge, skills and coaching capacity... Nowadays, even the groups which are affiliated to Japan typically don't do traditional karate (as many groups in Japan are now competition focused in their respective hombu dojo's).

I was recently shown a blog called Rhinoceros in the Dojo, where there are many video's of its creator, however the guy has karate which are brown belt level standards (at best), and clearly lacks application, which is immediately detectable by anyone who does real karate. He talks and talks, and talks... But destructive karate is not there. It is now easy to see why karate is often looked down on by other martial arts/fads.

When Asai Sensei asked me to interview him in December 2005 (his last major public interview in English, which was featured in Shotokan Karate Magazine) he said I was one of the very few Shotokan karateka in the world who did karate as "martial arts" - something he said "is extremely rare now". Probably another reason why he taught me more kata than anyone else in the world, why he graded me the youngest 6th Dan in the world, awarded me "A Class" Examiner prior to my 7th Dan, and asked me to conduct his final interview (in English) in Shotokan Karate Magazine... Hmmm...

Whilst the fad's exist, sometimes they at least help to expose all of the crap out there, especially groups and individuals claiming to be traditional karate when they are not. Traditional karate is a MARTIAL ART, not a tag sport, dance routine, affiliation to Japan, or style name i.e - Shotokan or Goju-Ryu. Traditional karate is the art I continue to teach, as assigned by Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei to spread IJKA (Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu), not as a rhinoceros mouth in the dojo who is all sound, all theory, and is physically weak.

Sayonara Facebook

2011-07-08T10:08:00.012+12:00

I've just deactivated my Facebook account to reduce my communication, especially monitoring messages. This way those who wish to seriously contact me to teach karate seminars or for personal reasons can do so via my actual email account.

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My feeling is that too many people are relying on Facebook as their main means of online communication. This is fine, it is a useful tool, however, I've always prioritised emails to my account (andre.mizuho@hotmail.co.jp). Moreover I have to admit that since using Facebook I've felt frustrated needing to check MORE messages. Perhaps I'm lazy when it comes to checking my messages? So goodbye Facebook, I have better things to do... In saying that I am sorry to those who have been using Facebook to check the updates on this site. However, if you can't be bothered manually checking for updates you can be automatically updated if you join the blog as a "Follower". This is free through Blogger on my page. Please don't email me "how?"

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To wrap up this post, I'd like to stress here that "I'm still just as available for communication online as ever", but now only via email.

Train hard! Osu, André

Winter is here...Overcome it with Training!

2011-07-04T00:01:00.002+12:00

The New Zealand Winter really is here in earthquake shaken Christchurch. For a `heat lover' such as myself, the thought of Summer back in Japan, as opposed to wearing scarves here in `shake town', is therefore extremely appealing. On a positive note, since there is nothing like training to warm up the body, here is my latest karate regime...

STATIONARY KIHON: (1) Chudan choku-zuki kara chudan oi-zuki; (2) Chudan gyaku-zuki kara niren chudan choku-zuki; (3) Migi mae-ashi mae-geri; (4) Hidari mae-ashi mae-geri; & (5) Mae-geri kara yoko-keage, yoko-kekomi soshite ushiro-geri .

IDO-KIHON: (1) Chudan oi-zuki kara yoko yori-ashi chudan gyaku-zuki soshite yoko yori-ashi jodan kizami-zuki; (2) Jodan age-uke kara mae-geri soshite chudan gyaku-zuki; (3) Chudan soto ude-uke kara yori-ashi chudan yoko empi-uchi, uraken yokomawashi uchi soshite chudan gyaku-zuki; (4) Chudan shuto-uke kara chudan mae-ashi mae-geri soshite shihon-nukite; (5) Gedan-barai kara chudan uchi ude-uke soshite chudan gyaku-zuki; (6) Chudan mae-geri kara jodan mawashi-geri, jodan uraken yokomawashi-uchi soshite chudan gyaku-zuki; (7) Chudan mae-geri kara yoko-kekomi, jodan uraken yokomawashi-uchi soshite chudan gyaku-zuki; (8) Jodan mawashi-geri kara yoko-kekomi, jodan uraken yokomawashi-uchi soshite chudan gyaku-zuki; (9) Yoko-keage kara yoko-kekomi, jodan uraken yokomawashi-uchi soshite chudan gyaku-zuki; & (10) Ippo sagatte jodan age-uke kara mawashi-geri, chudan ushiro-geri, jodan uraken yokomawashi-uchi soshite chudan gyaku-zuki. Summary & point to keep in mind: My emphasis at present is on renzoku-keriwaza (combination kicking techniques ) - especially kicking with the same leg repeatedly but still using maximum body power; and variants of hip utilisation in both tsuki, & ukewaza (thrusting/punching and reception/blocking techniques). Keep in mind that there is a parallel between the first waza, whether `seemingly' defensive or offensive, in that the first action usually dictates success or failure.

KUMITE: Drills combining jiyu kumite, Kaeshi-ippon kumite & uchikomi are presently at the heart of my kumite training. Application of kihon, especially in regards to rengeri. For example use of mae-geri or mawashi-geri to "stop" the attacker employing GO NO SEN (taking the initiative later) then using the same leg to kick again followed by attacks with the hands. My emphasis in uchikomi is simply blitzing with the hands based on body power as opposed to merely the arms. In case you are wondering, I am leaving Gohon, Sambon, Kihon-ippon Jiyu-ippon kumite for when I train in the general class at the CPIT dojo. Perhaps a special note, undetectable in this post, is my present focus on a ever more potent kizami-geri (cutting kick), which all Shotokan karateka know was/is the trademark waza of the legendary JKA master, Masahiko Tanaka Sensei (8th Dan). Everyone kindly comments about the power in my kicks, however, as I am sure you'll understand, "satisfaction" is non-existent word when it comes to karate technique. Could it be that Mick Jagger was singing about karate?

KATA: On the subject of "I can't get no satisfaction" my kata practice is almost 'too bland' to write about at present. Hopefully that relays a couple of things to you. Firstly, that kata is the most important aspect of karate training, and secondly that I am not a kata performer... I'm a traditionalist "practicing kata for application in jissen-kumite" (actual kumite)... This results in the kata form which we see in the likes of Mikio Yahara Sensei of KWF Shotokan, Morio Higaonna Sensei of IOGKF Goju Ryu etc. Anyway, as you may have read before, I know more IJKA (Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu) koten gata than anyone else in the world, including all of the instructors in Tokyo (which has caused me a fair amount of trouble, especially, and funnily enough, from non-Japanese karateka...). So why did Asai Sensei teach me so many kata? Well, sadly the reason behind this fact is not because I have "nice kata". Asai Sensei taught so many to me because of all the errors in my karate, and because he liked it that I practiced kata for function as opposed to merely `looking impressive'. Asai Sensei was a martial artist above being a karateka, so his karate-waza was pure bujutsu. So if you followed this "way" and were serious like me, he was very generous with his vast martial arts knowledge. So what kata am I working on at the moment? At the IJKA Christchurch Shotokan Karate Club we are working on Heian, Junro and Tekki. At my private 'Tetsubukan/International Karate Shotokan Dojo', the focus is on Heian-shodan, Junro and Jion. And my own self-training is still fixated on Unsu, Nijushiho and medley of koten-gata.

I sincerely hope that this post finds you well and that you are maintaining your practice where ever you are in the world. Karate is never ending, so take your time to do everything well and with purpose (maximum effect). Never just "go through the motions" but rather make the most of your training time. Always remember that more than anything, karate is a Martial Art and that, regardless of style, you OWN your own karate. Best regards from Christchurch, New Zealand. Osu, André.

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand (2011).

ASHI BARAI: ANDRE BERTEL " THE TETSUHIKO ASAI WAY"

2011-07-03T06:59:00.001+12:00

I'm a student of IJKA Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu Karatedo

2011-07-02T20:39:00.016+12:00

After the "Malaysia ordeal" (please click here to read my earlier post today: http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2011/07/andre-bertel-seminar-requirements.html) here's another video including some competition kumite clips, basic training in Japan (oi-komi in Nakatsu-shi and kihon muchiken-waza in Usa-shi) and Kaminari-arashi kata (including one bunkai-waza with my dear friend and Shotokan karateka Tony Petronelli Sensei - 3rd Dan). Why the title of this post? Because I'll always be a student, and all I wish for is to perfect IJKA Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu Bujutsu Karate, as best I can, and to share my skills/knowledge with others. Osu, Andre Bertel.© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand (2011).

ANDRE BERTEL SEMINAR REQUIREMENTS

2011-07-02T09:42:00.019+12:00

As you probably know I could not board my plane to Malaysia. I am gutted and shocked with disbelief! Please read below and check this link to the Christchurch Shotokan Karate Club website (IJKA New Zealand): http://christchurchshotokan.blogspot.com/2011/07/one-way-ticket-to-malaysia.html malaysia.html

Regardless of the appology from the organiser I am very disappointed and sorry for those who missed out. As an instructor my requirements are very simple for seminars. Once again... "If these can't be sorted out, don't invite me". I'd prefer to not travel to teach karate ever again than to ever have to deal with such an ordeal (Please read below):
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ANDRE BERTEL SEMINAR REQUIREMENTS

(#1) Return airfare (Star Alliance flights only) & punctual transport to and from airport/seminars etc.

(#2) Travel insurance.

(#3) Accommodation & food whilst there including on flights (I am happy to stay with my hosts and don't need fancy restaurants etc).

(#4) Negotiated fee for tuition (non-refundable upon being booked).

(#5) A formal letter of invitation.

(#6) Full schedule provided prior to my departure.

______________________________________

Additional Requirement (#7)

{As a result of the damaged I've sustained from this event}

(#7) Organisers are not permitted to publicly advertise my seminars (use my image or name) until:

- (a) my RETURN AIRTICKETS ARE PROVIDED;

- (b) TRAVEL INSURANCE IS CONFIRMED; &

- (c) SEMINAR IS FEE IS PAID AT LEAST ONE WEEK PRIOR TO DEPARTURE TIME.

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand (2011).

The Karatedo of Andre Bertel

2011-06-28T23:33:00.009+12:00

Recently I've posted several videos. Here is one with a brief profile, a handful of photos and some video footage.

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand (2011).

Another video from Germany

2011-06-25T21:34:00.009+12:00

Here is another video from my IJKA Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu Karate seminars in Ahrensburg, Germany 2010. For the other more recent videos please click on this link: http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2011/06/christchurch-karate-club-homepage.html

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand (2011).

Christchurch Karate Club Homepage

2011-06-20T22:40:00.008+12:00

A quick link to the homepage of Sensei Lyall Stone's dojo, the CHRISTCHURCH SHOTOKAN KARATE CLUB (IJKA New Zealand Honbu Dojo) based at the CPIT Gymnasium in central Christchurch City. Several video links from this site have been featured: http://christchurchshotokan.blogspot.com/2011/06/style-of-christchurch-shotokan-karate.html

OSU!

Another Asai Karate video uploaded

2011-06-19T19:00:00.008+12:00

Here is another newly uploaded video on youtube. There have been other clips made public over the last couple of days.

Osu, Andre.

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand (2011).

www.andrebertel.blogspot.com FOURTH ANNIVERSARY

2011-06-19T09:39:00.028+12:00

Today is the fourth anniversary of this website (here’s a link to the post I made earlier today about this: http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2011/06/4th-anniversary-of-andre-bertels-karate.html).

I also decided to upload a video for you. If you have enjoyed my blog over the last four years and hopefully learned plenty from it, please do make a comment! To check it out and post some feedback click on this link:

The 4th Anniversary of Andre Bertel's Karate-Do

2011-06-19T00:01:00.000+12:00

Today marks four years since I created this website and made my very first post: http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2007/06/back-in-japan.html And if you've been following the site, you will know that the objectives stated in that initial post have remained unchanged.

YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Here is a link to my channel which supplements this site: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum Have browse through, and feel free to make some comments!

VISITORS HERE! Looking at my stats it is wonderful for me to see that many karateka from around the world have visited this website over the last four years. Going by most of the emails I've recieved they have come to the site to learn more about about traditional Japanese karate, the IJKA, Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu, and my late teacher, Shuseki-Shihan Tetsuhiko Asai (10th Dan). Based on the most recent stats there have been people logging on to this site in Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Benin, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Cape Verde, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Jamaica, Kiribati, , Latvia, Lithuania, Malaysia, Mali, Malta, Mexico, Micronesia, Mongolia, Namibia, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, Taiwan, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States of America and Uruguay. This is a real honour for me, and keeping in mind the mission statement of the site, I hope it has enlightened you all in regards to Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu Karatedo. Once again I offer my deepest thanks to everyone who have visited 'Andre Bertel's Karate-Do' and especially to those who have sent me personal messages. ARIGATO!

OSU!

André Bertel’s Karate-Do Video Links

2011-06-17T19:42:00.009+12:00

(45) BASIC DUCKING EXERCISES: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/44/KBlctonpgaI

(44) RAKUYO KATA PERFORMED SLOWLY: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/43/M9RkoJmxKtw

(43) ASAI SENSEI'S UCHIDESHI: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/42/qimXsw2SkjI

(42) IMPROMPTU DEMO: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/41/kzTufE16cgk

(41) SEMINARS IN PALMERSTON NORTH, NEW ZEALAND (1): http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/f/10/EsrnxLWvBpk

(40) SEMINARS IN PALMERSTON NORTH, NEW ZEALAND (2): http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/f/15/iUNVc_uRubY

(39) SEMINARS IN CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/f/12/m34qsesUDEQ

(38) BUNKAI TRAINING FOR MICHAEL BARR SENSEI (IJKA ENGLAND 4th DAN): http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/f/13/gUia8Rf9gPg

(37) SEMINAR IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/39/kckvNnOa8Sk

(36) ASSISTING ASAI SENSEI IN HAWAII, USA: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/38/KS9toQBOxDg

(35) LYALL STONE SENSEI (CHRISTCHURCH) TAMESHIWARI: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/37/EGyJVYtYTtA

(34) NEW ZEALAND CHIEF INSTRUCTOR IJKA & JKS: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/36/fEPKui7919o

(33) COUNTERING A FLURRY OF ATTACKS: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/35/OvTgMJmhaKA

(32) SHIKAKE: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/34/4XtozWkC7tI

(31) DEFEATING AN AGGRESSIVE OPPONENT: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/33/y29ABfLxpwU

(30) HIDARI KIZAMI MAWASHI-GERI: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/32/2xanzl8xnxU

(29) TAI-SABAKI: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/31/7__BLxwPGZI

(28) GYAKU ZUKI KARA JODAN MAE ASHI MAWASHI–GERI: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/30/0LKR53fiI8Q

(27) CHUDAN MAWASHI-GERI KARA JODAN-ZUKI: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/29/1Qxk9dAyqBA

(26) CHUDAN MAWASHI-GERI KARA JODAN-ZUKI (OPPOSITE SIDE): http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/28/rNoFqrT9JPE

(25) TRADITIONAL SHOTOKAN KARATEKA VERSES TAG KARATEKA: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/27/6rYelxx0Txw

(24) SEIRYU KATA: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/26/uNcOeu5Fv20

(23) SEMINARS IN ITALY (1): http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/f/18/hjWjasrt2qw

(22) SEMINARS IN ITALY (2): http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/f/16/7CBEtiICjBw

(21) SEMINARS IN GERMANY (1): http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/25/3LW-UgZECcY

(20) SEMINARS IN GERMANY (2): http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/f/17/oBHfwT0n8I8

(19) SEMINARS IN TOKYO: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/24/aCz1f8ruhTM

(18) SHOTEI KATA PERFORMED SLOWLY: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/23/JwT1kLY0UF8

(17) SELF-TRAINING IN JAPAN: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/22/-sCwEte1Zsw

(16) KAMINARI-ARASHI KATA: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/21/WrlcggQQSvo

(15) PERSONAL TRAINING FROM ASAI SENSEI (2): http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/20/tMCL3elwhmw

(14) SEMINAR IN HAWAII, USA: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/19/5Oijw2xpzTU

(13) ASSISTING ASAI SENSEI IN NEW ZEALAND: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/18/zGX6ty6jp-k

(12) PERSONAL TRAINING FROM ASAI SENSEI (1): http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/17/wqTxz0NzbE8

(11) MAWASHI-GERI KARA JODAN ZUKI: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/16/fD5aVZMJ1LE

(10) TAI SABAKI: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/15/UlZj0M_fqP0

(9) GYAKU-ZUKI: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/14/9ml4zX6xBFU

(8) ASHI-BARAI (2): http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/13/4SWhpQVih4Y

(7) CHUDAN MAWASHI-GERI: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/12/arsJwnrjvv4

(6) ASHI-BARAI KARA JODAN GYAKU-ZUKI: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/11/QM_zckLv158

(5) IPPON: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/10/rcLf7RGQ-MM

(4) ASHI-BARAI: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/9/IbtN6_su3Kg

(3) ASSISTING ASAI SENSEI: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/8/2miuk3FjYl8

(2) ASAI SENSEI ON NEW ZEALAND TV: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/7/fpX05max8Wg

(1) ASAI SENSEI & ANDRE BERTEL EMBU: http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum#p/u/6/dYYQauucQA8

Heian & Junro

2011-06-15T22:27:00.009+12:00

We use five Heian and Junro kata side-by-side to acquire and achieve superior foundational techniques, and physical understanding of bujutsu (martial arts) karate. The difference between these two series’ of kata is best illustrated by the most common basic karatedo manoeuvres such as gedan-barai (‘lower level sweep’) which not coincidentally is the first technique of both Heian-shodan and Junro-shodan.

Comparison of 'movement one' in Heian-Shodan & Junro-Shodan: Without excessive detail, in Heian-shodan, the gedan-barai is performed by compressing the legs and simultaneously the arms via the two arm chambering action (with compression of the right hip leftward). It is then completed by the shift into zenkutsu-dachi (front stance) with a precisely coordinated gyaku-kaiten (reverse rotation) into hanmi (the `half-facing position’). The hiki-te or pull-back hand plays an important part in not only self-defence application, but also to scaffold how to master optimal body action to maximise snap. Alternatively in Junro-shodan the movement is more natural as it is a single arm gedan-barai as if reactively defending in kumite. In this case the hiki-te functions as merely a method of application and physical awareness as opposed to being used to ‘help’ with the body action. Power is instead derived from natural energy by (a) dropping the weight naturally down into kiba-dachi; and (b) use of a whipping action, in particular, shoulder and elbow snap.
_____________

Using these ten kata (Heian 1-5 & Junro 1-5) together to develop high-class foundational techniques cannot be achieved if they are all executed in the same manner. Their strength is found in their differences, and these differences are found within their correct dynamics, and application. Now sadly, most people, even those in Tokyo, are simply practicing ten Heian kata and calling five of them `Junro’. I promised to Asai Sensei before he passed away that I would continue practicing and teaching karate his way, and that starts with the IJKA versions of the five Junro kata.

Asai Sensei & student Andre Bertel: Introductory ducking (Drills 1 & 2)

2011-06-13T19:51:00.041+12:00

Everyone knows that one of Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei's trademark skills was his uncanny ability to "go in" ducking under his opponents attacks and deliver an unpredictable retaliation. This video features the first two basic/introductory IJKA Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu ducking drills. These practice: (1) Ducking under jodan gyaku-zuki (upper level reverse punch); and (2) Ducking under jodan huri-uchi (upper level swinging strikes).
________

In this footage I am assisting Asai Sensei at the 2003 Technical Seminars in Christchurch, New Zealand. Rather than harp on and write a technical article describing the main points, I'll let Sensei explain them to you himself, via this video clip. OSU, André.

Rakuyo Kata Performed Slowly

2011-06-12T23:00:00.014+12:00

In the video featured here Asai Sensei had me perform the IJKA kata RAKUYO (Falling Leaf) slowly.

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Asai Sensei's commentary is worth listening to! Sensei liked my kata, as I did it the way he wanted me to - as pure BUJUTSU (MARTIAL ART). That is probably why he shared so many of his koten-gata with me and always had me demonstrate kata when assisting him at seminars. According to Mrs. Asai (now IJKA PRESIDENT), "watch my husbands body language when he had you demonstrate a kata for him"... This is really shown in this video!

Needless to say, I still perform kata as Sensei taught me focusing on practical application, smoothness, fluidity, natural action and snap. Asai Sensei defined "precise kata" as "karate for actual kumite/self-defence application".
_________

Whilst this is not explosive video footage, I hope you appreciate it for what it is. Rakuyo kata performed slowly in front of my late karate teacher, the legendary Shotokan Master Shuseki-Shihan Tetsuhiko Asai.

IJKA - ASAI SENSEI'S PERSONAL GROUP

2011-06-12T09:42:00.017+12:00

Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei was very strict on me, especially in regards to my karate technique. He didn't want me to do JKS karate, he wanted me to technically focus 100% on his ASAI STYLE BUJUTSU KARATE. That is, not standard Shotokan Karate-Do but rather Asai-ha Shotokan-Ryu.

This is why Asai Sensei had two organisations.

For your information: There is an I.J.K.A (ASAI KARATE) gasshuku, championship, and dan/qualification exam being held in Taiwan this August. For more information please contact IJKA Japan at www.ijka.jp

Youtube `Andre Bertel Uchideshi' video

2011-06-09T17:22:00.007+12:00

This video is for all of the other uchideshi of Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei who continue to follow his karate path (which was initiated and is still maintained by his personal group, the I.J.K.A). My best wishes to everyone, Osu! - Andre Bertel.

The Zone of Proximal Development

2011-06-08T14:54:00.010+12:00

The zone of proximal development was one of Russian scientist Lev Vygotsky’s most important contributions to the field of developmental psychology. It is defined by the void between what a person can independently do and what they can only do with assistance (Kail, 2010). A basic example might be when a karate instructor positions a beginner student into an exact zenkutsu-dachi (front stance), however when by themselves the individual cannot make the stance. For example their stance is say, too narrow, or has incorrect distribution of weight. Of course this not limited to single movements and positions but also renzokuwaza (combination techniques), kata, kumite (sparring) etc.

Wertsch & Tulviste (1992) stressed that the instructor supervising the student inside of the zone of proximal development must be more skilled, and preferably, a highly skilled individual. Therefore, seriously taking into account the teacher-student learning process, how we are taught, practice, refine skills, and so forth, it readily becomes obvious that whoever guides us from dependence, to independence, really matters!

This sums up why it is absolutely critical to seek the highest level of karate instruction available. Try to maximise your own zone of proximal development by seeking out the very best instructor or instructors, who can guide you with the utmost expertise and ensure that your karate will blossom.

References:

Kail, R.V. (2010). Children and their development (5th ed.). Pearson Education, Inc., Upper Saddle River, New Jersy. USA.

Wertsch, J.V., & Tulviste, P. (1992). L.S. Vygotsky and contemporary developmental psychology. Developmental Psychology, 28, 548-557.

Karate without a warm up

2011-06-08T12:51:00.000+12:00

In this video I was asked to give an impromptu karate demonstration for a class of Japanese elementary school children. It was a case of take off the slippers and socks, and just do it. No warm up, just "go". This is a far from a precise embu when one has ample time to practice, be in a loose fitting karatedo uniform, and get thoroughly warmed up with nicely stretched muscles. That is why I thought I'd share this here today... Sometimes there is no time for a warm up.

Basic tenshin & muchiken video

2011-06-07T14:13:00.013+12:00

Today my late teacher Shuseki-Shihan Tetsuhiko Asai Shihan (10th Dan) would have turned 76 years old. Here is a short video on two introductory techniques/principles that he emphasised (namely 'tenshin' & 'muchiken'). Clearly you can see the origin of his former right-hand man Mikio Yahara Sensei here. This is the origin of what is now known as KWF karate! The footage comes from an Asai-ha Shotokan karatedo seminar I taught last year in the North Island of New Zealand and is courtesy of Morgan Dilks Sensei (Chief instructor of USKU New Zealand). I've uploaded this in memory of Asai Sensei today. OSU!

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand (2011).

Youtube Video Links

2011-06-04T13:40:00.000+12:00

Again by request, here are some of my Youtube video links including competition, seminars around the world, training etc. Kindest regards from Christchurch, New Zealand, Andre. http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2011/01/andre-bertel-karate-do-video-links.html

BELOW ARE SOME LINKS TO MORE' MOST RECENT UPLOADS:

**************

FEBRUARY SEMINARS IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kckvNnOa8Sk

JANUARY SEMINAR IN CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND (Begins with a slow rendition of Kakuyoku-Nidan Kata): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m34qsesUDEQ

SOME MORE COMPETITION CLIPS: http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2011/01/new-kumite-videos-posted-on-youtube.html and http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2011/01/three-more-kumite-videos-on-youtube.html

VIDEO FOOTAGE FROM EARLY LAST DECADE: http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2011/02/new-video-andre-bertel-ijka-jks-new.html

ASSISTING ASAI SENSEI TEACHING IN HAWAII, U.S.A: http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2011/02/new-video-assisting-asai-sensei-in.html

© André Bertel, Christchurch, New Zealand 2011.

Jodan, chudan, gedan...

2011-06-02T10:15:00.011+12:00

My two hour self-training yesterday consisted of only two techniques in ido-kihon; oi-zuki (chasing punch) and mae-geri (front snap kick). These were practiced individually then in combination with a mix of chudan/middle-level and jodan/upper-level targets . Here are the eight VERY SIMPLE ido-kihonwaza which I practiced:

(1a) Chudan oi-zuki in two steps; (1b) Chudan oi-zuki (pictured); (2) Jodan oi-zuki; (3a) Chudan mae-geri in three steps; (3b) Chudan mae-geri in two steps; (3c) Chudan mae-geri; (4) Jodan mae-geri; (5a) Chudan mae-geri kara chudan oi-zuki in two steps; (5b) Chudan mae-geri kara chudan oi-zuki; (6) Chudan mae-geri kara jodan oi-zuki; (7) Jodan mae geri kara chudan oi-zuki; & (8) Jodan mae-geri kara jodan oi-zuki (pictured below).

My reason for writing this post: A important point in solo kihon & kata training is practicing to punch at chudan, and jodan, in relation to your own physique - these are 'your own' solar plexus and chin heights respectively. All too often I have to correct beginners for punching too high for jodan, or too high, or too low, for chudan. Centralising your techniques is also a key point . Keep in mind that decisive targeting in solo training facilitates pin-point accuracy in kumite (where the opponents height, distance and movement alter where you aim your techniques).

Conclusion: Whilst this is `common sense', to maximise training, we really must be strict on ourselves. When doing solo practice make sure that chudan IS CHUDAN, jodan IS JODAN, and (not mentioned today) gedan IS GEDAN. If nothing else, I hope this is a good reminder. I for one certainly need them! All the very best, OSU.

Christchurch Karate Club Website

2011-06-01T12:08:00.014+12:00

People have emailed me wishing to access the official blog of the CHRISTCHURCH SHOTOKAN KARATE CLUB (I.J.K.A NEW ZEALAND). People who are seriously seeking to learn authentic Shotokan karate in Christchurch eventually find their way there. Here's the link: http://christchurchshotokan.blogspot.com/

Interviews translated into Spanish

2011-06-01T00:19:00.011+12:00

Here are a couple of the interviews I published with my late teacher, Shuseki-Shihan Tetsuhiko Asai (10th Dan), which have now been translated into Spanish.

Both interviews were translated by Víctor López Bondía and published on the http://www.shotokankaratedo.es/ website. They can be accessed via the following links:

http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.shotokankaratedo.es%2Flectura_tsw_entrevista_asai_2003.php&h=c5c89wyT3icR09l235X5sMBAWAA

http://www.shotokankaratedo.es/lectura_tsw_entrevista_asai_2006.php

Karate Maturitatem

2011-05-26T11:12:00.016+12:00

The kata I'm now practicing extensively is Nijushiho, my late mentor Asai Tetsuhiko Sensei's Shotokan-ryu tokui-gata.

Below the pictures of my self-training today is a still of Asai Sensei at around 19 years old (circa 1954) from the old JKA- Japan Karate Association 8mm films. At this age he was apparently already assigned Nijushiho by Master Nakayama at Takushoku University. 52 years later, in 2006, he was still working on it! As I practice Nijushiho kata, a form which I've known for well over 20 years now, it is easy comprehend and openly say that I'm merely a beginner. This is reflected by my age, tenure, and most importantly my skill in my execution & application of this kata. Will I ever get a Nijushiho which comes close to Asai Sensei's? Most probably not, but I'll continue to try!

Whilst years of dedication are impressive, it is what one does with their time, which really matters. Asai Sensei not only studied karate for several decades, but clearly maximised his time to acutely perfect his craft.

Running a dojo is certainly not enough! Just as training for years and years, and training hard, is not enough. One must train correctly and be seriously challenged by other talented karateka daily. Otherwise time is wasted. The example of a mature kata, such as Nijushiho, & the benchmark of a karate master, such a Tetsuhiko Asai, supplements these prerequisites, providing a wonderful "elite example" to follow.

KIHON IPPON KUMITE

2011-05-25T18:52:00.017+12:00

Here are some basic notes on Kihon Ippon Kumite (Fundamental one-step sparring). I could write more, but thought I'd concentrate on issues which I find many karateka fail to do optimally and what Shuseki-Shihan Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei personally taught me. Intentionally I've not put photos of kihon ippon kumite here, but rather of kata. This is because Asai Sensei stressed that kihon ippon kumite is the first method of training where the more unique techniques, and variations of kata, can be applied. However before this practice can be useful the most raw form of kihon ippon kumite must be perfected. The notes here look at this most "basic" form and point towards the application of kata for actual self-defence training. To further simplify this article I've devided the article into two sections. (A) Notes for the ATTACKER; and (B) Notes for the DEFENDER. Osu, André Bertel.
_________

(A) Notes for the Attacker
1. From shizentai (natural position) step back with the right leg into hidari zenkutsu-dachi (left front stance) with hidari gedan-barai (left lower level block). Simultaneously rotate the hips back into a proper `to the limit’ hanmi (half facing position). Announce “jodan” (indicating a prearranged ‘upper level’ attack). Note: when assuming hanmi naturally bend/contract the rear knee so that it is ‘under your hips’ and that the hips remain level.

2. Decisively attack with migi jodan oi-zuki (upper level chasing punch) advancing into migi zenkutsu-dachi (right front stance) thrusting and rotating the hips into shomen (the front facing/square on position). Note: Drive with the rear leg by thrusting the rear heel into the ground and making the leg straight (that is, “use your previously front leg which is deeply bent to propel your hips forward”).

• A special point when attacking with oi-zuki is to perfectly coordinate the completion of the stance (i); punch (ii); hiki-te (iii); rotation and thrust of hips into shomen (iv); drive of the rear leg/supporting leg (v); and breath (vi) simultaneously. With experience alternatively practice the punch with the movement of the body and other variations for actual kumite (to autonomously perfect various applications of timing and body power).

• Kiai sharply on the full extension of your techniques.

A final note I'd like to add about 'attacking' is that "without having correct distancing and targeting to really clobber your training partner you are mutually wasting time" . If you are doing Kihon ippon kumite with me and fail to block I will ALWAYS hit you. Why? Because I'm practicing my attacks. Please do the same, for yourself and your partner, as without an effective stimulus there is no need for a response. To summarise: THE ATTACKER IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PERSON. Please remember this!!!
B) Notes for the Defender
1. The defender waits in shizentai for the attack to come, then reacts `after it is launched’ even though it is prearranged (note: pre-emptive defence invalidates the drill). After the attack is on its way the defender drops their weight vertically whilst stepping back with the right leg into hidari zenkutsu-dachi. Concentrate more on dropping as opposed to stepping back so as to maintain an effective ma’ai (distance). Simultaneously twist the hips into a full hanmi – to the limit with hidari jodan age-uke (left upper level rising block). To counterattack thrust the rear leg straight rotating the hips back into shomen with migi gyaku-zuki (right reverse punch). Remember that that hips slightly precede the launch of the punch (so that the legs and waist are the main source of power). Remember: Traditional karate primarily utilises the kahanshin (lower body) as opposed to the johanshin (upper body).

• The same applies for defences against chudan oi-zuki (middle level chasing punch), chudan mae-geri (middle level front snap kick), chudan yoko-kekomi (middle side thrust kick) and mawashi-geri (roundhouse kick). Note, the standard basic blocks against these techniques are as follows: 2. For chudan oi-zuki (defend with chudan soto-uke); 3. for chudan mae-geri (defend with gedan-barai); 4. for chudan yoko-kekomi (defend with chudan soto-uke); and 5. for mawashi-geri (defend with either chudan uchi-uke or jodan uchi-uke as appropriate).

• Kiai on all of your counterattacks.

LEFT & RIGHT!!!

ALWAYS PRACTICE BOTH RIGHT & LEFT ATTACKS FOR BALANCED TRAINING (BOTH ATTACKING & DEFENDING). – My `common sense’ advice in this regard is to practice one’s weaker side more... Whilst this is not rocket science, people usually fail to practice enough on their weaker side.

To conclude I hope that these notes assist you with your Kihon Ippon Kumite training! Obviously, I've just covered the very surface, but like everything, the initial points are what determine the effectiveness of the more advanced practice.

Over 838,000 visitors to 'Andre Bertel's Karate-Do'

2011-05-24T22:13:00.023+12:00

So far this blog has had over 800,000 visitors from all corners of the planet. Everyday I recieve kind messages from many people around the world. For example today alone, people from UK, Kenya, Iran, Russia, India, Norway, Greece, USA, Tahiti, Japan, Taiwan, China, Austria, France and Brazil have sent me letters.

Needless to say, it would be impossible to personally answer everyone, so I thought that I'd post a big thank you to all of the people who take time to contact me directly. Domo arigato gozaimasu - Thank you all very-very much!

PS - To maximise the resources on here you can check past articles from 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and earlier this year, and also access my youtube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel?feature=mhum - as a hint, be sure to scroll down the uploads and favourites, as there might be some things there that you haven't found before). And in regards to the videos, please make a comment! It is great to recieve these too, and sometimes they result in the production of new technical articles. Often questions which you may be asking will be already answered on here, and via use of the search engine you can access the information you're looking for.

Insofar as hosting me for Technical Seminars, please contact me directly at: andre.mizuho@hotmail.co.jp

Osu, André

My current self-training regime

2011-05-20T09:36:00.003+12:00

Here is my updated self-training schedule. If nothing else this can provide a base for you to construct your own daily routine. Especially in the case of instructors. An idea might be to use the search engine on this blog (you can check my previously posted regimes) and perhaps develop a superior schedule. Regardless, what matters is that one practices as much as possible, and does so via a systematic routine which produces results.

Kihon: The fundamentals for kihon ippon kumite and jiyu ippon kumite (attack, and defence/counterattack practiced seperately as kihon. Also special emphasis this month is on the relationship between Heian-shodan kata and Kihon ippon kumite, and how this transfers over to jiyu ippon kumite.

Kata: (a) Kihon-gata: Heian-shodan; (b) Sentei-gata: Bassai-dai; (c) Jokyu-gata: Nijushiho & Unsu. (d) Asai-ryu koten-gata: Kaminari-arashi with oyo. This month my oyo/bunkai-jutsu training is focused on Nijushiho kata.

Kumite: My kumite practice is twofold at present. Firstly: Kihon ippon kumite (Fundamental one-step sparring): Attacks, defences and counterattacks with/and against jodan oi-zuki, chudan oi-zuki, chudan mae-geri, chudan yoko-kekomi & chudan or jodan mawashi-geri. Emphasis is on basic form (stance, leg movments, use of hips, posture, precise form of technique, trajectory and zanshin), and exact ma'ai (distancing). And secondly: Jiyu ippon kumite (Freestyle one-step sparring) with specific focus on long-range attacking with full and proper application of koshi no kaiten, and harmonious tai no shinshuku.

A gap in my schedule

2011-05-19T16:37:00.016+12:00

For those interested I am available to conduct seminars within the first three weeks of June. This opening in my schedule certainly does not need to be filled with travel and teaching courses, but this (when considering the disruptions we've had in 2011) is an extremely rare gap for me. It will be a case of first in first served, so if you are serious about hosting an Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu karatedo seminar or for personal training for you and your club members, please contact me in the next week or two.

My contact details are as follows:

EMAIL: andre.mizuho@hotmail.co.jp

TEL: +64 (21) 295-5600

Hirokazu Kanazawa Kancho turns 80

2011-05-18T18:09:00.009+12:00

Recently I was told that Hirokazu Kanazawa Kancho (10th Dan), who is the President, Founder and Chief Instructor of SHOTOKAN KARATE
INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION (S.K.I.F) celebrated his 80th Birthday.

We offer our deepest respect and congratulations to Kanazawa Kancho, & to our friends in the SKIF. Here are couple of classic pictures from 'Best Karate' of his exhibition match with my late teacher Asai Tetsuhiko Sensei. The bout was refereed by their mutual teacher, Masatoshi Nakayama Sensei.

Mae-geri

2011-05-18T01:17:00.021+12:00

Here are some notes on HOW TO DO THE BASIC SHOTOKAN KARATE MAE-GERI for total beginners. Keep in mind I've quickly written this up for my new karatedo students here in Christchurch in combination with my checking/correcting of their technique in class. Osu, André Bertel.

1. Assume gedan kakiwake-gamae in heisoku-dachi. The fists at used as `hip posture markers' diagonally at your sides (and should therefore remain set in position throughout your kick for self-analysis). Don't assume a free sparring type guard in this drill, but rather use it master the kick in isolation.

2. Raise the kicking legs knee high compressing your knee as tightly to hamstrings as possible. Imagine squeezing a lemon behind you knee. The ankle and toes are locked back towards your tibia anterior/shin as much as possible.

3. Snap the kick out to full extension and back identically to the previous position. The feeling should be that the hiki-ashi (withdrawal/pulling back of the leg/foot) is faster than the extension. Make sure to impact with the josokutei (the ball of the foot) - with the toes tightly pulled back. Keep the supporting leg heel down as much as possible and keep the hips "set". And imagine both of your legs turning into one long leg with energy travelling from the grounded foot right through to, and out of, the impacting foot. As a 'self-monitoring formula' keep the following still throughout your mae-geri: (A) the supporting foot/ankle & heel; (B) the fists/arms; & (C) the head.

4. Without delay rapidly return the kicking foot lightly to the floor into a precise heisoku-dachi.

SUPPLEMENTARY POINTS:

a. Many people question ""Why kick from a feet together position?" Answer: Simplification of trajectory (the straight line of the kicking leg is easy as the support leg can be easily used to monitor it. Utilize the heel of the kicking foot against the inside of the supporting leg just like `sliding the elbows' in punches). b. Mae-geri in Shotokan is typically a keage/keriage (snap kick literally `rising kick'). Always remember, in the most obvious terms, that the difference between the keage and kekomi (thrust kick) is whether the knee joint leads or follows the kicking limb. c. The concept of a rising kick can be confusing. Whilst the lower leg does rise the technique `goes in'. The impact is therefore extremely penetrating not merely a glancing upward action which is ineffective. d. Practice is completely useless without impact training. e. This most basic form of mae-geri practice (as described in text & photographically in this article) is ISOLATION TRAINING. It therefore remains useful throughout one's training in combination with the other core training methods (namely - 1. stationary mae-geri in zenkutsu-dachi; 2. oi geri - advancing in zenkutsu-dachi with mae-geri in ido-kihon practice by driving the support leg & thrusting the hips forward. This includes also 'transporting' the one's upper bodyweight into the target. 3. Renzokuwaza i.e. - rengeri etc).

_______

Final point: KNOWING HOW TO DO SOMETHING IS NOT MASTERING. Otherwise, once one could swing a golf club they would no longer need to practice. A rule of thumb which I learned visiting and living in Japan over the years was "less than 30 precise repetitions of a basic technique is time wasted." Hopefully this article, along with dojo-training, and some self-practice, will help you to master your mae-geri, and subsequently all of the other keriwaza (kicking techniques).

Perfect practice makes perfect

2011-05-17T00:01:00.019+12:00

Practice must be first and fore mostly based on perfecting the FOUNDATIONAL TECHNIQUES of Karate-Do. These `Kihon-waza' are like the foundation of a house with origins in the six basic kata, namely Heian-shodan to Tekki-shodan.
________

My mentor Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei (10th Dan) also gave us the five Junro kata which help us to further study the foundational techniques http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2007/06/here-is-another-article-i-originally.html originally.html. The standard Shotokan-ryu kihon-gata & Asai-ryu kihon-gata combined with Yakusoku-kumite if taught in the right way result in high level karate fundamentals.

Regardless of training, what matters is CORRECT PRACTICE & REPETITIONS OF CORRECT KARATE resulting in mastery of "the core basics". Many people say "there are no short cuts" but I prefer to say "do things right from the beginning and no time and effort is wasted". In karate this requires a good instructor, which is a rarity nowadays. I know of several people in existing Shotokan dojo here in Christchurch who are not satisfied by the low level of instruction that they are recieving. All of these individuals are welcome at my dojo TETSUBUKAN and the CPIT CITY DOJO run by Lyall Stone Sensei. However... They should be prepared to be corrected. Time wasting and passing on bad habits is not a part of the syllabus we teach.

New Beginners Karate Classes in Christchurch

2011-05-16T23:04:00.001+12:00

Back in New Zealand and the Christchurch Shotokan Karate Club is all go. This includes new adults/teenagers beginners classes (as pictured) which are being held at the CPIT Dojo on Tuesday's & Thursday's (6:00pm) and Monday's & Wednesday's at Shirley Boys High School Gym (7:30pm).

These classes are actually good for all grades as the training is very indepth focusing on the "CORE KIHON" (FUNDAMENTALS). For karate wanting to return to training, this month is a super time as these sessions will cover the nucleus of Asai-ha Shotokan Karate-do.

For more details please email me at: andre.mizuho@hotmail.co.jp

Karate EVOLUTION

2011-05-12T00:34:00.032+12:00

The most influential instructors of the JKA (Japan Karate Association) Matsuno group, were as follows:

ASAI Shuseki Shihan, Yahara Fuku Shuseki-Shihan & YAMAGUCHI Shihan.

Also ABE SHIHAN & ISAKA SHIHAN.

Other instructors in Tokyo according to JKA Chief Instructor Asai Tetsuhiko Sensei were classed as “juniors”. Upon the loss of the Japan Supreme court case to the Nakahara group (Over the name of `JKA – Japan Karate Association’) in 1999, these instructors effectively split and formed their own organisations.

Chief Instructor Asai Tetsuhiko Sensei formed the JKS (& pre-empting that, his private “Asai karate” group IJKA); Yamaguchi Toru Sensei maintained his own dojo and developed a small group of followers; JKA Assistant Chief Instructor Yahara Mikio Sensei & Isaka formed the KWF; and Technical Director Abe Keigo Sensei formed the JSKA.

So why have I posted this? A political agenda. Of course not, nothing to be gained 12 years after our group lost the name JKA. My objective in posting this is just to provoke a quick thought on KARATE EVOLUTION… Who will you be with in 12 years? This further emphasises that all that matters is one’s training!

To conclude, a famous Japanese Sensei who I cannot name recently said to me “Mr. Andre, the reason you are still doing Asai Sensei’s karate is because you left”. OFTEN EVOLUTION IS UNPREDICTABLE but everything that survives improves.

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand (2011).