Intensive Private Training in Oita City

Today and yesterday we had intensive training here in Oita City. I practiced and taught the core sonoba-kihon, followed by Gohon Kumite and Kihon Ippon Kumite. Kihon Ippon Kumite was, in fact, the main focus：with atttention to critial details to achieve 'finshing waza'. Kata training bolstered this effort and included Unsu, Sochin, Nijushiho and Sentei-gata Jion.

Overall, in the sense of 'Budo'/'Bujutsu', the training was literally top-level here in Japan. Hard core practice. I think that says a lot; moreover, it is great that authentic Budo Karate is continued without being watered down to sports karate, nor the Western way of theories, lots of talk, "feelings" (= get smacked over in Japan), and mere 'copy-cat movements' (= just movements) with no relation to fighting/self-defense in the real world. Real karate is a real martial art, not just an art. This is the Karate-Do I follow as do other true followers of Karate. Osu, Andre.

© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2017).

桜 (Sakura)

桜 (Sakura) or cherry blossoms, as most know, have a very special cultural significance  here in Japan. Ask any Japanese person “what is your favourite time of the year?” and many will say “Haru” (Spring): often in reference to the exquisite blooming of sakura.

Spring, of course, is literally the season of new life in nature, and the blooming of sakura vividly epitomizes this. What makes sakura more profound is that their life is both beautiful and fleeting: an analogy of human existence.

As the sakura bloom across Japan people have ‘cherry blossom parties’ or   花見 (Hanami), which literally translates as ‘watching blossoms’. They eat and drink heartily with family, friends and/or workmates. It is therefore a time to really appreciate being alive—and the beauties of life—on many different levels.

© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2017).

Gohon and Kihon Ippon Kumite is KIHON TRAINING

There are two forms of kumite (sparring) purely for the training of kihon (fundamentals), these are: Gohon Kumite—Five step sparring; and Kihon Ippon Kumite—Fundamental one step sparring.

The purpose is ‘KIHON’: While both of these training drills practice the additional aspect of timing and maai (distancing), the focal point is to ‘maintain and employ perfected/classical kihon form’ whilst doing so. For this reason, I have always highly recommended that karateka do not consider Gohon and Kihon Ippon Kumite as ‘kumite’ but, rather, as ‘partner kihon’. In this way, the underpinning purposes of these partner drills can be achieved and not diminished in any way.

Gohon Kumite and Kihon Ippon Kumite WONT TEACH YOU HOW TO FIGHT: Common sense shows that doing these drills, just like doing solo kata training, will not teach you how to fight in isolation. That has never been the objective of these drills/routines; rather, their point is to teach/ingrain and further develop optimal body actions (which, in turn, become functional via ‘specific freestyle training’: uchikomi, jiyu-kumite, oyo-kumite, impact training etcetera). As a whole, Gohon Kumite and Kihon Kumite are training methods—which contribute towards overall effectiveness of karate technique—by strictly practicing the pure/classical fundamental techniques with a training partner.

Training these drills as MATCHES: This is, of course, fine, and is done here in Japan (with Kihon Ippon Kumite); nevertheless, one will not be successful if one turns Gohon and Kihon Ippon Kumite into some form of ‘restricted fight’. As stressed above, doing so, will inevitably compromise kihon—which immediately renders these drills useless. Returning to the point of matches with Kihon Ippon Kumite, in relation to the aforementioned point, the ‘winner’ be the karateka whom demonstrates superior kihon; thus, again elucidating the point of Fundamental ‘Kumite’.

Training this way doesn’t EXPRESS EMOTIONS; rather CONTOLS THEM: One of the big factors between the top level karateka here in Japan—and those around the world—is the difference of emotional expression in training. The Budo Karate Way is ‘poker-faced’. No grizzly expressions—like on the covers of cheesy martial arts magazines and depicted in far-fetched martial arts movies; no ‘post win’ high fives and dancing—as is often seen in sports karate events. Quite simply, no emotional expression. Practicing karate in this way, the proper way, means that far greater internal-control will be achieved. Relating this point, specifically to Gohon Kumite and Kihon Ippon Kumite, we can see some essential mind-body connections. This is especially the case due: to these drills requiring ‘to move the body in very strict ways’. Getting ‘stuck-in’ (forcing and rushing techniques) is an easy way to see poor control of the body and mind. To recapitulate and summarize in a slightly different way, in order to be successful, one needs to be in a very calm state to move correctly—without any technical short-cuts nor superfluous actions; furthermore, to also have ‘strict control over emotions’ (to not ‘over excite’ and, consequently, turn the drill into a quasi-freestyle exercise with one’s training partner). In this way, we can readily see how SHIN-GI-TAI is trained in fundamental kumite and Karate-Do in general.

The most important person in Gohon Kumite and Kihon Ippon Kumite: Besides exact kihon, and having the emotional control required to do so, never forget that “...THE MOST IMPORTANT PERSON IN ALL FORMS OF YAKUSOKU-KUMITE (Pre-arranged Sparring) IS ALWAYS THE DESIGNATED ATTACKER”. There are multiple reasons for this, however, the most critical is “...that always making/using correct maai for one’s attacks must become second nature”. There is no exception to this rule. Second only, to this point, is the need to offer stimuli for one’s training partner to respond. Put another way, an out of distance technique requires no defensive response; thus, if an ukewaza (reception technique) is employed, it is inherently an error.

CONCLUSION: Kihon, kata and all of the different forms of kumite training collectively work together to optimally develop the defensive and offensive capacities of karateka; however, the objective of each drill must be fully understood and followed in physical practice. Failure to do so will waste training time; moreover, groove bad habits. When practicing Gohon Kumite and Kihon Ippon Kumite think about how much they imitate/resemble a real fight. When one does so, it is evident that they do not, nor can, prepare one for jiyu-kumite nor self-defence. Irrespective of this, they are excellent building blocks—when understood and trained correctly—that greatly contribute towards solidifying the foundational skills which (in harmonious combination with kihon, kata, and the other forms of kumite) result in an ever-improving freestyle capacity.

© André Bertel. Oita-City, Japan (2017).

PS – You may have noted that I have not mentioned Jiyu Ippon Kumite: this was intentional. I will write an article about it in the near future. 押忍, André.

Trainees from Germany: Andrea Haeusler and Torsten Uhlemann

On Friday 7^th and Saturday 8^th of April—Andrea Haeusler Sensei and Torsten Uhlemann Sensei (JKA Germany)—came for private training at my dojo here in Oita City.

As they operate their own dojo, Fuji San Karateschule Münster (click here to visit their clubs homepage: http://www.karateschule-muenster.de/) the sessions were essentially ‘instructor trainings’ focused on key points of top-level Budo Karate here in Japan. Accordingly, kihon was the main aspect—in relation to kata and kumite.

In sum, it was great to see Torsten Sensei and Andrea Sensei do so well over the two days of training here in Oita. I wish you both the very best for your remaining time here in Japan! Osu, André

© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2017).

WANKAN KATA VIDEO

One of my personal students after learning 王冠 (Wankan) requested that I perform it slowly online. Wankan is a kata that I merely know - not one that I presently practice; therefore, I am regretful that I cannot give it the justice it deserves. Irrespective, I hope that this helps people seeking to learn Wankan correctly - in the technical sense -  as I have seen many strange versions posted online, which is, of course, very regretful. Best wishes from Japan, Andre Bertel.

  

SUMMARY OF WANKAN KATA

·         Rei (Musubi dachi)

·         Yoi (Ryoken daitai mae, Hachiji dachi)

1.      Ryoken chudan kakiwake uke (Migi kokutsu dachi)

2.      Ryoken chudan kakiwake uke (Hidarii kokutsu dachi)

3.      Ryozenwan jodan hasami uke (Hidari ashi dachi)

4.      Migi ashi ippo mae

5.      Hidari ashi ippo mae

6.      Hidari tate shuto chudan uke (Migi zenkutsu dachi)

7.      Uken chudan zuki (Migi zenkutsu dachi)

8.      Saken chudan zuki (Migi zenkutsu dachi)

9.      Sasho gedan sukui uke/Usho koko gedan osae (Hidari ashi mae neko ashi dachi)

10.  Hidari tate shuto chudan uke (Migi zenkutsu dachi)

11.  Uken chudan zuki (Migi zenkutsu dachi)

12.  Saken chudan zuki (Migi zenkutsu dachi)

13.  Sasho gedan sukui uke/Usho koko gedan osae (Hidari ashi mae neko ashi dachi)

14.  Hidari tate shuto chudan uke (Migi zenkutsu dachi)

15.  Uken chudan zuki (Migi zenkutsu dachi)

16.  Saken chudan zuki (Migi zenkutsu dachi)

17.  Migi kentsui chudan uchi mawashi uchi (Kiba dachi)

18.  Hidari chudan mae geri keage (Migi ashi dachi)

19.  Hidari chudan jun zuki (Hidari zenkutsu dachi)

20.  Migi chudan mae geri keage (Hidari ashi dachi)

21.  Migi chudan jun zuki (Migi zenkutsu dachi)

22.  Hidari chudan mae geri keage (Migi ashi dachi)

23.  Hidari chudan jun zuki (Hidari zenkutsu dachi)

24.  Saken chudan uken gedan yama zuki (Migi ashi mae fudo dachi) “EI!”

·         Naore (Ryoken daitai mae, Hachiji dachi)

·         Rei (Musubi dachi)

© André Bertel. Oita-City, Japan (2017).

RENSHUSEI FROM GERMANY: Oliver Schoemburg

Over the weekend Oliver Schoemburg, from Ahrensburg (Northern Germany) trained at my private dojo here in Oita City. I will not detail the time outside of the dojo with him and his lovely family, but I will briefly give an overview of the training.

Kihon was a large part of the practice, however, the overarching theme was 'technical moderation' and, at the heart of this, simplification. The three core techniques of Karate-Do: jun-zuki (oi-zuki), gyaku-zuki, and chudan mae-geri keage were given the greatest attention. Furthermore, zenkutsu-dachi and its various aspects (transitions from shomen, hanmi, gyaku-hanmi and unsoku/ashi-hakobi) in sonoba-kihon, ido-kihon and kumite were thoroughly addressed.

Supporting this training was a couple of imperative points in Kihon Ippon Kumite and the base understanding of the freestyle kamae in Jiyu Kumite; also, advanced practice of kata: Heian Shodan, Tekki Shodan and Hangetsu. Another theme trained, via kata, was "...waza no kankyu to achieve kime in every technique; in particular, during the execution of renzokuwaza". Indeed, all of these aspects were combined to work towards the physical aim of Budo Karate: Ichigeki-hissatsu.

In sum, Oliver did extremely well and has plenty of homework to take back to Germany for himself (and his students). おめでとうございます, 押忍! André.

© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2017).

2017 SEMINAR in KREFELD, GERMANY

Due to an extremely busy schedule here in Japan, I will only be giving one Technical Seminar abroad in 2017. This event will be held in KREFELD, central GERMANY on October 7th and 8th.

For those wishing to ensure that they get a place on the course, you should contact the organizers—Dojo Nakayama Krefeld e.V.—by email: alex@karate-Krefeld.de. As in all of my other open seminars, I advise people to book early to avoid disappointment.

Here is a link to the homepage of the host dojo: www.karate-Krefeld.de For those who will be attending, see you in Germany. 押忍, André

© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2017).

SUSTAINED MOTIVATION

One of the biggest factors of success in any field is MOTIVATION. As everyone knows, “motivation is not something that is hard to attain; rather, it is very hard to sustain”. It is this point, SUSTAINED MOTIVATION, which is the base of high-level achievement in any field. However, this foundation is merely the springboard of potentiality; alternatively, the barrier to success if not attained or nurtured.

Without sustained motivation, irrespective of natural ability, one can never reach an elite level in any endeavour; likewise, for those lacking significant natural ability—with sustained motivation—it literally becomes possible to reach the highest of levels. In sum, talent is extremely overrated.

Interestingly and very importantly, sustained motivation is underpinned by one imperative psychological skill… RESILIENCE. If you are—or train yourself to be—a truly resilient human being, you will be in a superior state to achieve your goals. To read more on this topic, click here: http://andrebertel.blogspot.jp/2013/10/karate-do-powerful-mechanism-for.html; furthermore and better, read this interview with Hanshi Renzie Hanham: http://andrebertel.blogspot.jp/2012/01/interview-hanshi-renzie-hanham-8th-dan.html  

This was the result of after my final semester at university. Less than top marks was not good enough. I am not bragging nor claiming I`m smart. What I am saying is that with sustained motivation you can literally do anything.

People often ask me, how is that you have practised karate since your early childhood? My karate journey began in my pre-teens, then continued through my teens, 20s, 30s and now, I still practise daily in my 40s. I guess this is also an example of sustained motivation.

These are key points that I constantly emphasise to my students as they never lose their power; moreover, they empower individuals to achieve their goals. All the very best in your endeavours:whatever they may be. Osu, André Bertel.

© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2017).

Heel, toes or middle of the foot?

Migi sokuto tobi yoko-geri kekomi.

One of the ‘technical must do’s’ of standard Shotokan style is to keep the entire foot flat on the floor in kihon and kata training (and, indeed yakusoku-kumite). In particular, keeping sokuto/the sword edge of the foot grounded—as opposed to `rolling them upwards`; and kakato-chushin (heel centre-line) are emphatically stressed.

The issue of sokuto is widespread; however, kakato-chushin is a characteristic of budo/traditional Shotokan. Actually, kakato-chushin is one of the bedrock ‘fundamental technicalities’ of Shotokan as a karate style; that being said, the majority of people “…who practise the Shotokan-ryu kata 'primarily for sports-type competition', for the most part, omit kakato chushin from their kihon”. This is because their focus is merely upon superficial aesthetics: as opposed to executing effective kata with potent effectiveness in the real world. This practise has long been deeply ingrained internationally. However, “...here in Japan this didn't begin coming commonplace until late 1999”.

Kihon gyaku-zuki: Kakato-chushin with the vertical axis running down from the lead shoulder through the lead leg.

Anyway, as a result (due to what happened at that time), many stopped focusing on kakato-chushin; and consequently, increasing numbers of Japanese Shotokan-style karateka (like their Western counterparts) “…now no longer understand what part of the foot is the focal point for techniques in relation to transitions and movements”. Interestingly, they keep the foot beautifully flat, yet merely do so for appearance sake.

Overall, this skill vitally relates to the use of the hips, COG (center of gravity), and where the axis is located: centre, right or left-side. It is at this point where one folds the body in harmony with the driving leg. Needless to say, all of this comes back to the soles of the feet; hence, kakato-chushin and its variations (when the point of focus moves to tsumasaki and the centre of the foot) must be 'physically understood' and trained daily.

In sum, without precise and ongoing practise of this ‘most based skill’ (please excuse the pun) the effectiveness of ones techniques will be innately compromised.

Hidari jodan mawashi-geri.

© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2017).

抜塞大 & 慈恩

Movement one of Bassai Dai: Sasho soede migi chudan uchi-uke (migi ashi mae kosa-dachi).

Today, BASSAI DAI and JION. The point of the training was to strip back another layer of these kata; in particular, via kihon, to improve application of techniques in Jiyu-kumite/Self-Defence. In sum, each of the sentei-gata are technically challenging (to the maximum). This is because they inherently demand "simplification and effectiveness of kihon". To answer my last post, physically speaking: this is BUDO KARATE.

The completion of movement 25 in Bassai Dai: Migi sokumen jodan uchi-uke doji ni hidari sokumen gedan-uke (Heisoku-dachi)

The opening kamae of Jion kata: Sasho uken shita ago mae (Heisoku-dachi)... A historically important posture.

Movement one of Jion: Migi chudan uchi-uke doji ni hidari gedan-uke (Migi zenkutsu-dachi).

© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2017).