The criticality of jiyu kumite in relation to kihon, kata, and the truth of one's skill

Jiyu kumite at the JKA Kumamoto Chuo Dojo (Shototakuhirokan). My secret is to always be not only one but five stetps ahead like my teacher, Asai Tetsuhiko Sensei, was.

Jiyu kumite is critical. Why? Quite simply, for putting one’s techniques to the test in a freestyle or `non-prearranged’ context. Nonetheless, based on my observations proper jiyu-kumite is rarely done correctly by the majority of karateka; that is, with a direct link to kihon and kata.

Firstly, just what is proper jiyu-kumite? I am not talking about friendly ‘sparring’ here, but really testing oneself in a truest sense of budo. Furthermore, I am not necessarily referring to full-contact bouts either but, again, full contact can indeed be the case. What I am speaking about here is a serious training experience which can be controlled, but not necessarily (this can be mutually decided by the trainees who are engaging with each other). In this way, everything—every technique that is thrown—has one’s maximum potential, whether controlled or not controlled/full-contact; that is, “…just like kihon and kata, no movements are launched without kime”. Put another way, every technique is “full” and applies total-body power with a direct connection to kihon and kata. The only variation is whether, or not, one `arrests’ their techniques. In sum, the kumite literally functions to ‘prepare the karateka’s technique’ for use/self-defence outside the dojo.

Proper jiyu kumite is not sports karate—it is budo applied in a freestyle context: To see this in action, it does not resemble sports karate, because the aim is not merely to tag your opponent, nor does it break away from kihon and kata; instead, the aim is to land your techniques with your entire body—to essentially collide—(a) applying the full application of your body weight; (b) utilising the explosive snap of the limbs; and (c) doing everything from your centre (driving from the legs to the hips and tanden). Needless to say, if partners mutually agree to engage in full-contact like this, one or both will sustain injuries. This is because full-contact in this context (the context of `proper karate technique’) literally becomes a real fight: in quintessence, a serious duel. Without going off-topic, this certainly provides a strong case for utilising sun-dome; and once again, means that “one’s technique does not degenerate from budo (due to `being controlled’)”. Simultaneously, and just as importantly, “…the inevitability of injury, which naturally will occur in serious duel, can be mitigated” (without the `commonplace diminution’ of jiyu-kumite into a watered down form of karate, which is predominantly the case amongst contemporary karateka). In effect, this is vividly seen when jiyu-kumite no longer seems attached to the other aspects of karate and, of course, vice-versa.

Jiyu kumite training at one of my seminars. It is utterly essential to be able to apply effective waza in a freestyle context.

 Jiyu kumite proves the truth of techniques and drills: Ultimately, when the things you try in the context of `proper jiyu kumite’ don’t work/fail (whether “with control in the proper way” or with full contact), you address them; that is, you can work to make them effective via the the trinity of kihon, kata and kumite; or, you can cut them out of your karate altogether. Many non-Japanese instructors are now teaching a vast array complex and flash looking drills; yet, they are impractical unless they can be applied in the context of freestyle. Most of what I see is only useful for demonstrations. Still, these `looks based’ demonstrations/practices coupled with longwinded explanations are gaining popularity (please refer to my article ‘Western Karate Drivel’ here: http://andrebertel.blogspot.jp/2014/09/talk-and-thinking-too-much-western.html). In this regard, people should question, why is this type of karate not occurring at the top karate clubs here in Japan. Moreover, why aren’t the best Japanese exponents and instructors training and teaching in this way? One can also question “if this this instructor tried this in Japan against a high level exponent, what would happen?” The answer is very obvious.

While I do not advocate jodan kicks for self-defence, one must still be able to apply such techniques in a freestyle context.

Proper jiyu kumite immediately cuts through all useless techniques and, indeed, establishes the technical effectiveness of practitioners themselves. `Feeling based’ training coupled with lots of waffling, and reliance on cooperative partners, is indicative of impracticality. Of course, cooperation is fine—in the low/initial levels of training and coaching (for clarity)—but only if it moves on (and translates into, jiyu-kumite). To be blunt, I can see a large number of prominent instructors, especially those outside of Japan, who wouldn’t want to try their techniques/applications in a freestyle context here… Proper jiyu-kumite thus helps to unveil true budo and true martial artists. Karate must work in non-prearranged circumstances; moreover, the higher up that ladder one is, this effectiveness must be able to deal with increasingly stronger and more skilful opponents—in a freestyle context. Taken as a whole, as I said in the opening sentence, “For me, jiyu kumite is critical”... I will conclude on that note. Osu, André.  

Jiyu kumite with Matt Brew Sensei (Christchurch, NZ).

© André Bertel. Aso-shi, Kumamoto. Japan (2015).

Preparatory exercises for Karate-Do

 Recently I was asked by some of my students to provide how I personally warm up (at present) and, pertaining to this, what I recommend for a general Karate-Do class. Whilst there are many variations of `junbi-undo’ I personally divided my `preparatory exercises’ into two sections. I will fully outline my personal junbi-undo below but, firstly, I’d like to outline my philosophy: in regards to `preparing the body for karate’. Before I go on, a quick search on here and you will find that this subject has been addressed at least twice. If you wish to search for a topic simply type it in using the search function (at the top left side of the screen).

Approach in my personal training and for the people I teach: I treat my junbi-undo as a day-by-day/case-by-case and highly variable matter; likewise, I do not push students to harder or lighter—JUNBI UNDO MUST BE A PERSONAL THING… NOT BASED ON EVERYONE PUSHING TO THE SAME LEVEL. Using myself as an example, some days I am sitting in the splits and my hips feel as soft as a baby’s. The next day my muscles can be extremely tight. In both scenarios, I just go with the flow, doing my junbi-undo at my own pace (and this is what I encourage others to do). The good thing to point out here is that in both scenarios, with `case-by-case preparation’, the quality of one’s karate will be equally good. Always remember: the junbi-undo is never a competition to beat others i.e. – stretch lower etcetera; rather, it is a competition for you to not let your ego kick in and specifically “prepare yourself for your karate”. Anything else is asking for an injury and is, therefore, imprudence.

MY PERSONAL ‘JUNBI-UNDO’: (Total time: 10—15 minutes)

Warm up (Approx. 6. Mins)

1. After seiza, begin with light aerobic exercise; for example, jogging around the dojo, hopping/skipping, star jumps, squats, push ups, light kata and the like. Mix it up!—don’t stick to one thing!!! The key is not to excessively tire the body but, rather, to get the blood flowing. Indicative of this is a light sweat, increased heartrate and a getting a little puffed. This should take about five minutes but will naturally depend on your training environment (e.g. – if training outside in the cold this section might take up 15 minute by itself).

2. Once nice and warm, joint rotations/movements, and the like, should be completed. Use karate stances i.e. – hachiji-dachi for shoulder circles, hip rotations, neck movements; heisoku-dachi for knee circles etc… Don’t do this slowly, move quickly between exercises (working up or down the body) to ‘keep in a state of warmth’. Around one minute and this section will be finished if the instructor is on the ball; i.e. – neck, shoulders, trunk, elbows, wrists, hips, knees, ankles—over... 

Stretching (Approx. 4—9 minutes)

a. Firstly use the stances to execute passive static stretches; for example, extended zenkutsu-dachi and so forth. Work down to floor stretches and gently hold them all for at least 10 seconds. The variations here are virtually endless, however, the key is relax, not to overstretch, and breath naturally (in essence, this stretching should never be painful; rather, `very comfortable with a light pulling feeling’). After completing these stretches, loosen up the hips again with some rotations for the final phase of preparation. I’d like to add here that there is much debate about using passive static stretches prior to technical practice; nonetheless, from my experience I recommend them to simply loosen up. Please note: if one wishes to work towards more intensive flexibility with deep and long held static stretches; isometric stretches; PNF (proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation); and the like, I recommend doing such exercises this at the conclusion of karate-do training; alternatively, as a part of home training or a supplementary strength/fitness/flexibility regime.    

b. The final phase of the preparatory exercises in karate-do is dynamic stretching with the legs. The trainees will all have a very good sweat by this stage and feel very ‘elastic’; furthermore, they will be psychologically well into `karate mode’. Essentially this section can include various knee raises; and controlled straight leg swings to the front, side, rear (and both inside and outside crescent actions). It is possible that you only need to do 10 reps with each leg (per exercise); however, the instructor might opt to do a couple of sets with each leg. That concludes the junbi-undo that I personally utilise and advocate. Osu, André.

© André Bertel. Aso-shi, Kumamoto. Japan (2015).

Being in the moment

Hidari chudan jun-zuki.

Outlined below is my latest training regime, which I began upon returning from our recent trip to New Zealand. Essentially, the focus--in kihon, kata and kumite--is simplicity and `connectedness'; namely, Shin-Gi-Tai. Paradoxically, my ido-kihon and kata practice is relatively advanced: but I believe this better serves the aforementioned objectives. Before I launch into my practice outline, I thought to leave you with a quote from Funakoshi Gichin Sensei, which pertains to my current focus: "Kantan na momo yoku kachi o seisu" ("The balance between victory and defeat often hangs on simple matters").

KIHON

Stationary kihon: 1. Migi gyaku-zuki (hidari zenkutsu-dachi); 2. Hidari gyaku-zuki (migi zenkutsu-dachi); 3. Mae-geri (heisoku-dachi); 4. Migi mae-geri kara yoko-kekomi soshite ushiro-geri (hidari zenkutsu-dachi); and 5. Hidari mae-geri kara yoko-kekomi soshite ushiro-geri (migi zenkutsu-dachi).

Ido-kihon: 6. Kizami-zuki kara sanbon ren-zuki; 7. Jodan age-uke kara chudan soto-uke soshite chudan gyaku-zuki; 8. Ipp sagatte jodan age-uke kara mawashi-geri, uraken soshite chudan jun-zuki; 9. Chudan uchi-uke (kokutsu-dachi) kara kizami-zuki soshite chudan gyaku-zuki; 10.  Ippo sagatte gedan-barai kara chudan jun-zuki soshite chudan jun-zuki; 11.  Chudan shuto-uke (kokutsu-dachi) kizami mae-geri soshite shihon nukite; 12.  Mae-geri kara yoko kekomi, mawashi-geri soshite chudan gyaku-zuki; 13.  Mae-geri kara yoko-kekomi soshite chudan gyaku-zuki; 14.  Yoko-keage ashi o kaete yoko-kekomi (kiba-dachi); and 15.  Oi komi gyaku-zuki (jiyu-dachi).

* Reps: I am presently doing less reps than usual. Stationary kihon only 30 of each (+ one set of 10 slowly as a `junbi-undo'). My ido-kihon is five repetitions up and down the dojo once slowly, then repeat twice with maximum snap. When I make any errors, or fail to be satisfied by my execution of any aspect, I perform an additional set (or sets if need be).

KATA
a.      Nijushiho
b.      Gojushiho Dai
c.       Random selection from the six shitei-gata (Heian 1-5 and Tekki-shodan).

* Reps: My kata training is where the hard work is at the moment. This is partially why repetitions of kihon are presently lower than normal. Looking at the last few practices and I've been averaging eight to twelve Gojushiho-dai, the same with Nijushiho, and randomly going through the shitei-gata twice each. Needless to say, upon finishing kata, I have jelly-legs: especially my left leg (all of you Gojushihodai fanatics out there will know what I mean)...

KUMITE

Yakusoku kumite: I. `Gohon kumite’ (jodan , chudan); II. `Kihon ippon kumite’ (jodan, chudan, mae-geri and yoko-kekomi); and 'Jiyu ippon kumite' (jodan, chudan, mae-geri, yoko-kekomi and mawashi-geri).

 

* Reps: My present kumite practice is more technical than full-on; again, this relates to the physical pressure from my current kata training... Consequently, I am only twice going through Gohon, Kihon Ippon and Jiyu Ippon Kumite; however, both times with maximum speed/explosiveness. All counters are either chudan or jodan gyaku-zuki. When I self-train, I am doing this as kihon, and when with a training partner, both kihon then as `kumite' in the standard form. Again, this is very simple practice, yet VERY challenging as it is `pure'.

 

To conclude, my present training gives me nowhere to hide the numerous weaknesses in my karate; hence, I hope to use it to mitigate these and continue to improve throughout 2015. Irrespective of this, my focus remains on the journey by `being in the moment'. Best wishes from Kumamoto-ken, Japan. Osu, André.

 

© André Bertel. Aso-shi, Kumamoto. Japan (2015). 

New Zealand Seminar Video: January 2015

This video is a mere technical reference for the karateka who attended! Osu, André.

I'd like to also give a very special thanks to my friend Hanshi Renzie Hanham (8th Dan) for making this seminar possible. For more information on Seido Karate Christchurch please visit their website: www.seidoshibu.co.nz.

Lastly, here's a link to an interview I did with Hanshi three years ago: http://andrebertel.blogspot.jp/2012/01/interview-hanshi-renzie-hanham-8th-dan.html
 

© André Bertel. Aso-shi, Kumamoto-Japan (2015).

CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND KARATE SEMINAR: January 2015

On January 10^th and 11^th I’ll be coaching a weekend of Karate-Do seminars in Christchurch, New Zealand. This will be a one off event before I return to Japan. As most people are away (on holiday) at this time, and the sudden notification, it is expected that not so many karateka will attend; nevertheless, this will result in the attendees getting much more personal tuition than usual.

The venue has yet to be decided; however, the schedule will be as follows:

Session one: Saturday 1pm - 3pm

Session Two: Saturday 4pm- 6pm

Session Three: Sunday 9am - 11am

Session Four: Sunday 12pm – 2pm

If you wish reserve a place, please email me directly at: andrebertelono@gmail.com. Already karateka from around New Zealand, and from Australia, have confirmed their attendance. For those attending, see you in New Zealand. Osu, André.

© André Bertel. Aso-shi, Kumamoto. Japan (2014).

Trainee from Sydney, Australia: Leo Pintos

Leo at Kokuzou Jinja.

Leo Pintos, from Sydney Australia, came to Japan to train at my private dojo last week. Leo has attended several of my karate-do seminars (in New Zealand and Australia) so it was great to see him here in Kumamoto Prefecture. I will not specifically detail the training he received—as that is for him—and for whom he chooses to share this knowledge with; however, I will provide a brief outline, and a few photographs, from his training with me here in Japan.



Day one: After some sightseeing at Aso Jinja (Shrine) the first two hour session began. This covered the subtle points of traditional Japanese kihon that are most commonly misunderstood; in particular, "...the aspects that are essential for budo karate, which essentially work towards the objective of ichigeki-hissatsu (the ability to down an adversary with a single blow)". Again, without going into detail, this primarily focused on foot positioning, use of the legs and hips: essentially, the kahanshin. This training was then seamlessly applied to Enpi kata, Gohon kumite and Kihon ippon kumite. Overall, the proper connection of the '3 K's', which leads to karate being highly effective (for self-defence in the real world), was decisively practiced.

Traditional application of movement one of Enpi.

Traditional application of movement two of Enpi.

 Day two: I took Leo for sightseeing at Kumamoto-Jo (Kumamoto Castle) and Musashi Koen (the park that hosts the grave of Japan's legendary swordsman, Musashi Miyamoto). I have to say that I had a great time hanging out with Leo… Super bloke! Following this, we went for a few hours of training at the JKA (Japan Karate Association) Kumamoto Chuo Shibu under Nakamura Shihan and Akiyoshi Sensei. This session really reinforced the previous day's training as it covered Jiyu Kumite Kihon; Gohon Kumite, Jiyu Ippon Kumite, and several rounds of Jiyu Kumite; and Kata (free-choice). Leo and I performed Enpi based on the previous days practice. Unambiguously, he did really well and everyone at the dojo took a shine to him immediately.

Kime with haito uchi.

Day three: On day three the real meanings, and foci, of Gohon Kumite, Kihon Ippon, Jiyu Ippon Kumite were stressed. The session ended with a controlled Budo Jiyu Kumite drill (which must not be `sparring’ but, rather, “reinforce full commitment of the body every time one attacks”). After this training, which I should say was at the new Aso-Budojo (i.e. - not my `refrigerated dojo), a nomikai (drinking party) was well deserved!

Kime with jodan zuki to the throat.

Day four: Leo’s final day of training recapitulated everything on a deeper level. We also covered the oyo (applications) of Enpi, which come from the origins of Wanshu in Okinawa. This was done
via the first level of Oyo Kumite. Again, this is for  Leo, as he took the plunge and came to Japan with Budo Spirit; that is, he talked with his karate and put himself on the line.

To conclude, I really respect Leo as a karateka and also as a person. Mizuho and I are honoured to know him. Domo arigato gozaimashita Leo San, you are always welcome at my dojo here in Japan. Furthermore,  Nakamura Shihan, Akiyoshi Sensei, and all the members of JKA Kumamoto Chuo hope to see you again! You have made many friends in Japan. Osu, André.

© André Bertel. Aso-shi, Kumamoto. Japan (2014).

Jodan mawashi-geri

Hidari seiken jodan-zuki to the throat.

Jodan mawashi-geri.

Leo: movement one of Kanku-Dai Kata.

Movement one of Enpi at Kokuzou Jinja (Aso-shi, Kumamoto, Japan). Even though you can't see it, it was lightly snowing.

Leo after training at the JKA (Japan Karate Association) Kumamoto Chuo Branch.

Italian trainee from Canada: Pietro Giordan

Pietro and I, at dinner, after his final private lesson earlier this evening. 

Pietro Giordan, an Italian 2^nd Dan (who is a university professor based in Toronto, Canada), has been training at my private dojo for the last couple of days. He flew all the way here to Kumamoto for some ‘one-on-one training’.

Pietro at my dojo in Aso-shi.

The private lessons I have taught Pietro have focused on the ‘core kihon’ of Karate-Do and the aspects that underpin on-going high-level development; namely, correct koshi no kaiten (the rotation of the hips), tai no shinshuku (the contraction and expansion of the body), and junansei (softness). These three points added to “the correct position at the `pre-point’, `initiation’, `delivery’, and `completion’ (of techniques)” was covered.



Some key points of Enpi for Pietro. Movement one: MIGI ASHI ORISHIKI HIDARI HIZA TATE. MIGI ZENWAN GEDAN BARAI. HIDARI ZENWAN SUIGETSU MAE KAMAE.

Movement 14 of Enpi kata: SASHO HIDARI NANAME MAE UE (KIBA DACHI).

Movement 34 of Enpi kata: MIGI TEISHO CHUDAN OSHIAGE UKE. HIDARI TEISHO CHUDAN OSHIAGE UKE (MIGI ZENKUTSU DACHI).

A particular aspect that was looked at in great depth was unsoku (leg movements) and correctly applying/”sliding” linear techniques along the chushin (centreline). From there it was possible to look at the more unorthodox techniques that I practice and teach; accordingly, this, in turn, clarified that “…in order to perform these techniques, kata, and applications (from outside of standard Shotokan) one must have solid Shotokan”. Ultimately, this culminated in the various forms of sparring ranging from Gohon kumite to Jiyu kumite (focusing their specific purposes from a `Karate in Japan’ perspective). Needless to say, special coverage of tenshin (rotational techniques) and snapping techniques (including muchiken-waza) were also addressed.It is worth mentioning that the private training included the rationale behind a number of the more common drills/exercises that I teach on international courses (and, indeed, when practice/teach in my private dojo on a daily basis). Those who have attended my classes (or seminars here in Japan and/or around the world) well know that ‘these rationales imperative to understand: so that the exercises/drills are not merely a novelty’. The key point here is that “…everything one does—in their physical training—should decisively work towards the development of effective martial arts karate”. Accordingly, it cannot be stressed enough that “in Traditional Japanese Karate-Do, the physical aim of techniques is always to achieve a single finishing blow (Ichigeki-hissatsu)”.

Lastly, a couple of formal exercises were covered, Enpi and a non-syllabus kata; however, these are for Pietro, so I won’t say anything further. I look forward to seeing his kihon, kata and kumite in the future.

Overall, I wish Pietro the very best and hope that the last couple of days of training here at my dojo will help his long-term karate development. As I say to everyone who comes to me for private training, “consume what you find useful and spit out the rest”. All I hope is that Pietro has at least gained one point that will help progress his Karate-Do and that he thoroughly enjoyed the classes. It was a pleasure to meet you Pietro! Please have a safe and enjoyable trip back to Canada. I look forward to hearing your report about training here in Japan. Osu, André.

Movement 36 of Enpi: HIDARI KAITEN TOBI. HIDARI KOKUTSU DACHI, MIGI SHUTO CHUDAN UKE.

© André Bertel. Aso-shi, Kumamoto. Japan (2014).

HAIEN: Down and out with severe pneumonia

A photo of my training in the early days of this website.

One of my policies, when I write articles on this blog, is “…when I don’t train I don’t write nor post”. My mentality (and not at all a criticism of others) is that “When I don’t train, I have no `right to write’ about karate”. Furthermore, I also believe doing so takes away the kokoro that comes out of this site, which has made it so popular around the world. Unambiguously, in many ways, I suppose this is utter nonsense; nevertheless, I do intrinsically and wholeheartedly believe that when it comes to Karate-Do, training takes precedence over every other aspect. Thinking and writing have their place, but can never replace the hard yards on the dojo floor. I’ve talked about this much before—in past posts—but here I am posting today; indeed and understatedly, without training for the first time in many years.

Anyway, today, I was diagnosed with serious pneumonia (39.6 Degree Celsius fever) and told that I must either be admitted to hospital, or go home and strictly stay inbed. I decided to come home, as I’m not contagious (safe for our new-born baby Mia, and Mizuho).

That being said, the doctor told me firmly “NO WORK, NO KARATE BERTEL SAN: FOR AT LEAST FIVE DAYS!” So, here I am, hypocritically breaking my own rules… Perhaps ironically, I have plenty to do here, study Japanese (desperately need to do more of that), read books, you name it,... Yet, it is really is strange not to teach nor train karate daily… And today is only my first day!!! Oh my…

You might think I’m implying I can’t relax, but that is not true either… Give me a cold beverage and good company; a walk in nature; or, especially at present, time with my wife and daughter, and I am more than relaxed.

So what am I writing about??? Basically, ROUTINES. I couldn’t work out my consistency with karate for so many years. I was really asking myself, and of course being asked by friends and family, “HOW DO YOU KEEP GOING?” I am not bragging when I say this—and you will see why—after I explain routines more specifically.

It is not my personal determination or mind-power that keeps me going. I can’t credit those attributes to myself, insofar as my daily karate training goes; instead, it is that karate training is in `my daily routine’—irrespective of how busy I get in life.

If there is not enough time for karate, I make the time. If that means getting up a lot earlier to self-train etc., that’s exactly what I have to do.

I never jeopardise other areas of my life for karate, especially family. Instead, like water, karate training flows into the gaps of my life and fills them idealistically. Perhaps there is some level of  determination involved; but, more importantly, I have a power which transcends my personal weaknesses (especially that inherent lazy streak, which we all have).

Ewwieeee, so André has a power…  Well, no! As mentioned above, it is primarily routine. Let’s compare daily karate training to the simple action of brushing our teeth.  We don’t stop brushing our teeth two-three times per day because of any factor (at least I hope that no one who reads this does…). Rather we brush on a daily basis to avoid cavities, look as nice as possible, and not `submit the world around us to extremely bad breathe’. What I am trying to say is that karate is simply a routine to me, more so than my effort: otherwise `lazy bones' would certainly win!

MY SECRET—KARATE IS CONTROLLED BY MY ROUTINE: If I am having a great day, and all is super, fine, and yes, even dandy—I still train. If I am feeling tired, glum, frustrated, or anything else—yes, I still train. What I’m trying to say here (and have indeed stated numerous times in the past) is that “Training is not controlled by my emotions: nor love or periodic dislike for karate—which has occurred consistently over the years; instead, it is a part of me. This makes keeping up training `NO EFFORT’ because it is simply what you do. It is primarily cerebral as opposed to emotionally driven. The bonus, not the main point, is what karate does for my body and mind (irrespective of my day). Needless to say, these points make us happy.

 

A special message for those who competed at the 13th Funakoshi Gichin Cup World Karate Championships. Firstly, congratulations!!! Secondly, the fire is burning hot now, but naturally it will cool. This is a wonderful window of opportunity to routinize your karate, so that your training moves forward consistently from now. The excitement may waver for a little while, but again, don't let this influence/lessen your training. A special thanks to Pinto Karate Dojo: http://pintokaratedojo.com/ for streaming the World Karate-Do Championships live. Also apologies to Lutie van den Berg Sensei and Naka Tatsuya Sensei for being unable to meet with you tomorrow night due to my illness. Of course, I am very disappointed about this.

 

I’ll wrap now… I hope this little article offers you something. At the very least, if you are a karateka, keep going to the dojo; and, make karate-do your routine: irrespective of how many days a week you can get to the dojo (and especially irrespective of your emotions, which are all too often hindrances to peoples life achievements and, overall, their joy).  If you do this, you will gain the most from your training and will routinely continue; moreover, should you choose to do so, you may well continue benefiting Karate-Do until your old age.

Kindest regards from my Japanese futon, André

© André Bertel. Aso-shi, Kumamoto. Japan (2014).

Updated training regime: a return to the sentei-gata

Warming up: my private dynamic stretching routine.

At present I am reviewing the sentei-gata: Bassai Dai, Kanku-Dai, Enpi and Jion. Needless to say, this is a big step from the five Heian and Tekki Shodan, however, I am now tackling `the big four’ in light of them. In addition to these kata I am working on Gohon kumite (Five step sparring); Kihon ippon kumite (Fundamental one-step sparring); and once again going through the JKA syllabus kihon. In my own training this is currently focused on the 9^th, 8^th and 7^th Kyu exams.

Balancing this, at the Kumamoto Chuo Dojo one of my seniors (Mr. Katayama who is in his 70s) is going for his JKA Sandan soon; consequently, kihon practice with Nakamura Shihan has naturally been focused on the Sandan curriculum.  For those of you who don’t know this includes: (1) Kizami-zuki+ sanbon ren-zuki; (2) Jodan age-uke + same arm chudan soto-uke + gyaku-zuki; (3) Chudan uchi-uke in kokutsu-dachi + kizami-zuki + gyaku-zuki; (4) Shuto-uke + kizami mae-geri + nukite; (5) Stepping back with jodan age-uke + advancing with mawashi-geri + uraken yoko-uchi + chudan jun-zuki; (6) Mae-geri + yoko-kekomi + mawashi-geri + gyaku-zuki; and (7) Mae-geri + yoko-kekomi + ushiro-geri kicking frontward, sideward and rearward: before returning the kicking foot to the floor (with both right and left legs). Perhaps a little off topic, but it really impresses me how we can find several of these renzokuwaza (combination techniques) in the 1960s JKA textbook, `Dynamic Karate’. Other groups do this as well, but the JKA have some very special points which pertain to the origins of these waza.

Kanku-dai kata.

That being said, it is very interesting how everything comes back to the core fundamentals—the core foundational principles, irrespective of complex renzokuwaza, kata, kumite, self-defence or impact work. When this is a physical reality—all aspects of training unite—and shingitai can be optimally worked towards. Contrasting my previous months kata training, of the six shitei-gata, with the more advanced sentei-gata; furthermore, my current `basic’ kihon work (in my self-training) with the `advanced training’ (under Nakamura Shihan and Akiyoshi Sensei); and the aforementioned point can be vividly seen.

Presently I'm focusing on deai in jiyu-kumite as depicted here in Germany.

It is from this reference point that the lines between basic and advanced become blurred and often undertake a sort of ‘polar reverse’ if you will. In my case, this has constantly occurred over the last three decades in karate-do and will certainly continue to do so. Such learnings are what make karate so challenging and, at the same time, so enjoyable. Osu, André.

© André Bertel, Aso-shi, Kumamoto. Japan (2014). 
 

Hirota's Latest Karate Uniform: The `TAKUMI'

A while back I bought the `Takumi’ (Craftsman), which is the latest dogi (karate uniform) from Hirota. I can honestly say that it is the best dogi I have ever worn in my karate career—actually the best by far! Until now, their `Pinak kata’ was, in my opinion, the best karate suit on the market.
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Probably the most accurate way to explain the Takumi is that it’s half-way between the `Pinak Kata’ and ‘Pinak Kumite’. It has paper thin material which moves with the body yet it is firm. This means it gets the best of both types of Pinak… Not to mention, it dries rapidly.

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Comfort and how a dogi hangs/”sits” on the body are probably the most important points when it comes to karate uniforms, and the Takumi is unparalleled in both of these aspects. Accordingly, I rate this new suit 11/10… `11’ because I can’t see Hirota, or any other companies, ever outdoing it. Of course, I’d like to see them prove me wrong, but I really can’t see this happening. Essentially, this dogi is certain to become “the standard” for all experts (and world level competitors alike).

With all these points in mind, make sure you get the perfect size for you!!! And, as always, I strongly recommend going through Kuroobiya to ensure this: because they are the best in Japan at achieving an optimally fitting dogi. Hamid and his team at Kuroobiya will ensure you get the right size (which is critical, as the Takumi is a fully tailored uniform and thus requires real specifics to get it right).

Hirota's measurement chart... Looks easy, but requires a thorough knowledge of the product: in relation to your own
specific wants and needs.

Here is a link to the Kuroobiya homepage—it is a one of the few karate websites I have bookmarked: http://www.kuroobiya.com.

 

 Taken as a whole, I can’t overemphasise the excellence of Hirota’s Takumi: this new dogi has lifted the bar to an unprecedented height.

© André Bertel. Aso-shi, Kumamoto. Japan (2014).