半月立 (Hangetsu-dachi): The original version

Every so often I'm asked “What is the correct way to do Hangetsu-dachi?” So, today I will address that Question; furthermore, I’ll share some key points I’ve learned (here in Japan, over the years) from the very BEST OF THE BEST!

Oliver Schömburg Sensei (3rd Dan Germany), and myself, practicing Hangetsu Kata.

 

Before I do that, I want to point out that: (a) what I am writing here today is not my opinion or unique methodology; (b) also, that this method is not a new ‘way’ adopted/evolved by the mainstream organizations here in Japan; and (c) that this IS 'the HANGETSU DACHI' handed down from Master's Funakoshi Gichin, Nakayama Masatoshi, and Asai Tetsuhiko.

 

With these experts in mind I also need to apologize in advance that I am qualifying this post today 'via name dropping'; however, the Hangetsu-dachi which I practice and teach is the original (which was previously taught in Shotokan as Seishan-dachi) and this really needs to be clarified. Otherwise, there is no reason for me to write and publish this article. It is gift for you: the reader.

 

What’s ironic here is that we are preserving the original Seishan stance as most styles and, indeed, Shotokan organizations have extensively altered it. Just to clarify, the only alteration I make (from the original form) is the use of the name ‘Hangetsu-dachi’ as opposed to its original label of ‘Seishan’. In other words, I simply use the ‘Shotokan label’, which utilizes mainstream Japanese. Accordingly, I'll adhere to this term throughout this article.

 

 

The original ‘Hangetsu-Dachi’

 

半月立 (Hangetsu-dachi), meaning the ‘half-moon stance’ is an

intermediate tachikata between zenkutsu-dachi and sanchin-dachi. Its forward and rearward strides are similar to zenkutsu-dachi, however, the inward tension on the knees are closer to that of sanchin; hence, it is categorized as an ‘inside tension stance’. Don't be confused by this term! Simply know that the pressure goes to the sokuto/outside 'sword' edges of both feet, and the knee and thighs lightly squeeze inward. This dynamic heightens the awareness of 'centralization' and allows the karateka to maximize switching between the three main axis's to optimize explosiveness. 

Whilst it is used for both defensive and offensive actions it is more often used for defense ("...due to its configurations to naturally cover up then launch explosive counterattacks).

 

Over the years here in Japan I have been taught that Hangetsu dachi is a natural position for absorbing blows whilst maintaining balance. 

Furthermore, as eluded above, a transitional stage in unsoku/movement. This point highlights that rather than being ‘fixed positions’, in actuality, they are in fact “key points in the transition of the center in conjunction with the optimal application of techniques”.

 

Returning to the classical description of hangetsu-dachi above and we can readily visualize one defending in sanchin-dachi then transitioning through hangetsu-dachi into zenkutsu-dachi (or fudo-dachi) to make a counterattack. Alternatively one might, say, contract into hangetsu-dachi and make an immediate counter from there; or expand for a larger scale waza. Irrespective of its use, the natural and optimal use of the human body—in real world self-defense—is the point of all karate ‘stances’ and techniques in general. This immediately brings to mind the old adage: “if

it’s not broken, don’t fix it”.

 

So, let’s look at the exact Hangetsu-dachi as demonstrated by Nakayama Sensei. This was the original Seishan dachi learned by Funakoshi Sensei, and came to the IKS (International Karate Shotokan) via Asai Sensei, and other prominent students of Master Nakayama; thus, in a direct line from Funakoshi Sensei and, in particular, Masters Itosu, Azato and Matsumura.

The original seishan-dachi (HANGETSU-DACHI) demonstrated by Nakayama Sensei

 

Some instructors from Japanese organizations have tried to correct my stances based on their respective groups changes to them. This has included my hangetsu-dachi. They have said things like: “That’s not correct now, that’s the old way!” and/or “The organization has updated the stance”.

 

The first scenario I take as a great compliment, as I don’t want to be

 'swayed by the wind of ever-changing karate trends’. In the second scenario, I always ask “so, why the update of the stance?” When I ask this question, the answer is always unclear (or includes what I can only describe as 'plastic bunkai'); thus, immediately indicating the changes are, at best, cosmetic fluff.

 

In this regard, many times Nakamura Masamitsu Sensei has told me "... not to change my karate to the 'new style' and continue follow Nakayama Sensei’s way”. Osaka Yoshiharu Sensei has also consistently stressed “The recent changes to the kata have not only been unnecessary but 'have negatively compromised' the unique characteristics of Shotokan”.

To conclude, for an overview of Hangetsu kata, here's a direct link: André Bertel's Karate-Do: HANGETSU KATA (andrebertel.blogspot.com)

 © André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2022).

YouTube Seminar Video: BAVARIA 2022 (Part 4)

 At the bottom of this post here's some extra footage from the Bavaria, Germany Seminar (earlier this year). You can click on the YouTube link to watch it. It was filmed and kindly provided from Oliver Schömburg Sensei (3rd Dan). If you haven't aleady, be sure to check out his EXCELLENT YOUTUBE CHANNEL: olliwaa - YouTube

The theme of the 2022 Bavaria Seminar was "START OVER"; accordingly, it was a simple course. Literally my first-time teaching outside Japan since the pandemic began; hence, it was a literally a 're-start' international seminar for me and 'review' for all of the karateka who attended.

2023 will see a wave of new and more sophisticated points at my seminars. The theme from now will be "MOVE FORWARD"! A significant amount of the upcoming content has never been taught outside of Japan before. I'm really looking forward to conducting these sessions and further contributing towards the spreading of Shotokan as Budo/Bujutsu.

In addition to the serious content and technicality of the seminars, as always, they will also be a wonderful time of friendship through Shotokan Karate.

See you in 2023!

OSU, André

© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2022).

The Okinawan Budo Karate inherited by traditional Shotokan-Ryu

The Karate of Okinawa can be categorized in four distinct ‘ways of practice’: (1) 武道空手 (Budo Karate)—the traditional classical ‘way’; (2) Karate for health; (3) Karate as a form of ‘movement art’—which can readily be seen in Okinawan dance; and (4) sports/game karate. Today, I will focus on the karate we do: 武道空手 (Budo Karate). I will do this BASED ON DOCUMENTS THAT I RECENTLY TRANSLATED FROM OKINAWA. Concluding this process, I will confirm ‘the most advanced waza of Okinawan Budo Karate’, which has also been handed down to its pure descendants (thus and accordingly, 'inherited by/within traditional Shotokan-Ryu). ― André 

 

What is the 武道空手 (Budo Karate) of Okinawa?

Traditionally the karate of Okinawa was based on self-defense. In particular, the emphasis being on the ‘perfection of defense’ and the seeking of ‘one hit finishing techniques.' (Please note here) This was hundreds of years before what is now known as 'Karate' reached mainland Japan. Therefore, it was not based on the evolution of competition in the 20th Century nor based on Kenjutsu nor Kendo.

The classical/original form of Karate, therefore, intrisically possesses a fierce killing style that is technically incomprehensible to those who practice sports karate. In theory, both may seem possible, however, their practice and training are like oil and water.

 

Ethics whilst turning the body into a self-defense weapon

Budo karate is therefore a martial art which can both take and save lives in unprovoked life and death determining altercations. For over half a millennia it has been honed and refined by experts and passed down accordingly. This has resulted in its deepening sophistication and increased stateliness as an unarmed defensive art. Moreover, whilst the physical skills and effectiveness have continued to be advanced, Karate has been revitalized in contemporary times to also embrace human ethics; thereby, balancing its physical power—which literally turns the human body into a weapon—with a solidified and necessary moral code. While the aspect of Kobudo cannot be looked over, the essence of Karate is that of ‘having the destructive potential of a weapon’ even when unarmed. Indeed, Kobudo training can contribute to this skill, but unlike impact training and strength work, is not a prerequisite of unarmed Karate prowess.

No rules and the 'generic purpose of kata'

One distinct physical feature of Budo Karate is that there are no physical or technical restrictions in both attack and defense; that is, the entire human body is subject to attack. Accordingly, it is utterly critical to develop a perfect system of defense. The ferocity of classical attacks makes the ability to defend against them of the greatest importance, especially at a subconscious and precisely reactive level. Rigorous kata practice is needed to reach this level as defense and attack must eventually become one. It is often said that “Simultaneous activation of this defense and attack and the acquisition of kata are directly proportional to one's proficiency”. 

 

受技 (Ukewaza): The most advanced technique of Budo

Expanding on this point and to conclude, in Budo Karate, the most advanced ‘waza’ are the ukewaza (reception techniques) as these actions literally control the opponent; furthermore, by fluidly accepting and neutralizing an opponent’s continuous attacks, one can physically and psychologically stop an attacker. Again, this is why kata, irrespective of school always begins with an ukewaza. Allow me to recapitulate and shed a little further light on an imperative point here: ‘the ukewaza of the expert is their most advanced and therefore, most sophisticated technique, in application. That being said, the rarity of those with this capacity can be likened to a four-leafed clover.

 

Overall, this high-level skill highlights the Budo Karate Proverb: “Do not be struck by your opponent, nor strike them, and emerge unscathed”. This is the psychological and technical maxim amongst the masters of Budo Karate in Okinawa; furthermore, amongst the masters of the Ryuha and Kaiha which have fully maintained these traditions and propagate them on mainland Japan and, indeed, across the world. Of course, this does not literally mean one’s attacker is unscathed but, rather, that their own attack was met with a reception—which collectively establishes the level of damage that they incur. The determinants being: (a) the intensity/force/ferocity of the attackers strike; and (b) the particular response and decided level of power—in sum, ‘the kime’—used in relation to the attackers' action or actions.

 

I’d like to conclude by saying that what I’ve briefly explained here will be incomprehensible for most people; moreover, perceived as being ‘unrealistic in the real world’: especially in response to a violent attack. Of course, this is completely understandable as this type of ukewaza is simply not understood now. It is old ‘school karate’ which can only be kept by its constant training and the complete knowledge that underpins it.

 

Irrespective of this knowledge or lack of it, “…at the highest level of the Karate of Okinawa (and the traditional disciplines which have descended from it) this type of ‘uke’ still defines the pinnacle of Budo Karate expertise”.

押忍！ ― AB.

© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2022).

Andre Bertel Karate-Do: TWO MILLION VISITORS!!!

It was just confirmed to me that recently this site exceeded 2 MILLION VISITORS.

I'm really surprised by this as the site has only ever been dedicated to Shotokan and Asai Tetsuhiko Sensei's extension of the JKA style; moreover, not the mainstream version of Shotokan, but our style as 'Budo'/'Bujutsu' Karate. In other words, this page has been extremely specialized and specific. 

Accordingly, I want to offer a very big thank you to the thousands of traditional Shotokan karateka around the world who have supported this blogsite and my efforts in posting training articles, and videos, over these last 15 years.

Lastly, stay tuned as there is a lot more to come here and on the official YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/andrebertel

ARIGATO GOZAIMASU, 

André

© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2022).

'Ball and chain impact, then skewer'

In the last few days, I've been spending the majority of my time on Kihon. Generally speaking, the IKS Shodan Examination Kihon. Of particular focus in this regard is the configurations of an optimally functional zenkutsu-dachi, fumidashi and ren-geri (namely, the combination of 'mawashi-geri kara ushiro-geri kekomi' and 'yoko-keage kara yoko-kekomi').  My Kumite training is focused on uchiwaza utilizing deai; furthermore, the combining tsuki with uchi in one fluid action (the 'whip and spear' method). With minimal need to explain, this method is consistent with my rengeri practice: to recapitulate -- 'ball and chain impact, then skewer'.

Kata training over these past few days has focused on  鉄騎二段 (Tekki Nidan); also, 抜賽小 (Bassai Sho). These two kata work in perfectly with the aforementioned 'uses of the body' and 'attacking trajectories'. For the foundational review of uchiwaza I am also utilizing 順路三段  (Junro Sandan) to supplement the kihon portion of my training. Overall, the results are coming steadily, STEP BY STEP!

OSU! - AB.

•  © André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2022).

Brief history of Okinawan Karate and the rise of Shotokan:

Introduction: To begin I need to emphasize that I’m by no means a karate historian, nor wish to be known as one (or become one), but I was asked if I could concisely write an article on the history of karate “…leading up to the rise of the ‘Shotokan style' (from what I have been taught here in Japan over the years)". I’ve done this in under 1000 words, to conform with this request of conciseness.

 

Background: Indeed, as I’ve already stated, I’m not a karate academic, I’m a practicing karateka/student and instructor. Accordingly, the information presented here is not researched but ‘second hand’—directly, by word of mouth—from a variety of my seniors over the years. If nothing else, please note that my understanding of ‘karate history’ comes primarily from ‘JKA-style Shotokan’ Japanese masters; namely Asai Tetsuhiko, Nakamura Masamitsu, Osaka Yoshiharu, et al.

 

Brief history of Okinawa Karate and the rise of Shotokan:

Okinawa Prefecture, Japan—formerly known as ‘the Ryukyu Kingdom’—is located in central East Asia. It consists of 160 islands spanning more than 1000 kilometers of ocean. During its 450 years as a kingdom, between 1429 and 1897 it closely interacted with neighboring regions and, in doing so, these exchanges naturally led to and contributed towards its unique culture.

 

It was in this unique environment and from multiple influences that Tode, often simply referred to as ‘Te’ (‘Ti’)—the forerunner of modern day Karate came into existence.

 

The oldest known records of the art come from the eighteenth century, however, their factual clarity remains questionable due the secrecy of training at that time and before. That being said, what is known is that Okinawa had a very long history of its indigenous hand-to-hand combat systems; moreover, that these arts merged with various self-defense methodologies from China and elsewhere collectively formed the technical origins of Karate.

 

A major influence in this process was the exchange of knowledge via maritime trade.

 

Needless to say, the invasion of the Satsuma clan of Samurai, in 1609, was highly significant event in the history of Okinawa.

 

The tradition of Karate was already taught in very private manner, largely in secrecy, behind closed doors. Also, the teachings were traditionally only taught to individuals or small groups in the upper social classes.

 

In this regard and contrary to popular belief, there is no evidence to support that Karate was ‘practiced in secret’ as the result of a government ban. Rather, teachings were kept ‘in house’ by the different masters, with students taught based on their individual discerning.

 

In fact, in the early twentieth century Okinawa inaugurated an official Karate training program within its education system. To be precise, in the 34th year of Meiji (1901). The first institution with Karate in the school curriculum was Shuri Jinjo Gakko and the master coordinating the training was Itosu Anko Sensei. The following year (Meiji 35) Karate was introduced into the curriculum of the Okinawa Prefectural Teacher’s Training School. Three years later, in Meiji 38, an official Karate program was also implemented at junior high schools. As a result, Karate become a more open part of life in Okinawa.

 

In 1918, several famous experts formed a karate study group, the ‘Karate Kenkyukai’. Those included in this group included Funakoshi Gichin—who was made the president, Mabuni Kenwa, Miyagi Chojun, and others.

Masters Mabuni (SHITO-Ryu), Funakoshi (SHOTOKAN-Ryu) and Miyagi (GOJU-Ryu).

Three years later, in 1921, the Crown Prince Hirohito visited Okinawa during which, on March 6th, in the main courtyard of Shuri Castle, he witnessed a Karate demonstration led by Funakoshi Gichin Sensei.

 

The following year Funakoshi Sensei was invited to Tokyo to demonstrate Karate at Japan’s ‘First Physical Education Exhibition’ that was held between May 30th of April 30th of 1922. Funakoshi’s Sensei’s performance was critically acclaimed and resulted in a request for a demonstration at the Kodokan by Kano Jigoro Sensei, the founder of Judo. Kano Sensei by that time was already a highly influential figure in Japanese society with much power and a member of the nation's International Olympic movement; thus, his patronage all but guaranteed the acceptance of Karate in mainland Japan.

 

The demonstration at the Kodokan was a major success and resulted in Funakoshi Sensei giving demonstrations at various schools of swordsmanship including the Hekkitsukan, Musu Shinden Ryu, and many other groups.

 

The interest in Karate expanded so much that Funakoshi Sensei decided to stay in mainland Japan and continue to promote the art. Upon deciding to do this he moved into the Meishojuku, which was a hostel for students from Okinawa. It was here from which he began teaching a small group of students, amongst whom included Konishi Yasuhiro. Konishi was a teacher of Jujutsu and Kendo, moreover, had close ties with Keio University. Accordingly, he became a very important catalyst in the promotion of Karate.

 

In 1924 Funakoshi Sensei adopted the Kyu/Dan ranking system from Judo. Earlier he had also began utilizing a lighter version of the dogi used by Judoka.

 

 

Later in 1929 Funakoshi Sensei changed the name of Karate from 唐手 to 空手. This was reflective of Karate being recognized as a martial art of Japan; moreover, the mental state optimal for combat: mushin—emptiness. It is also the origin of name ‘Kanku’ from its opening movements; furthermore, the opening of Unsu which signifies ‘Hutsuun jindou’—“Parting the Clouds, Seeking the Way”.

 

Ten years later on January 29th, of 1939, Japan’s first full-time purpose-built dojo was opened: ‘the Shoto Kan’ (‘The House of Shoto’). It was officially named after Master Funakoshi’s pen name, in his poetry and calligraphy, to honor his promotion and stewardship of the art. This is what led to his style, and teachings of Karate, to become labeled (by his senior students) as ‘Shotokan-Ryu’.

The 'Shoto Kan'.

While the ‘Shoto Kan’ was burnt to the ground several years later in one of the massive bombings of Tokyo in World War Two, the skills handed down in the dojo survived by its members. Consequently, due to this and its technical excellence, Shotokan-Ryu (the karate of 'the Shoto Kan') went on to become, by far, the most popular and widespread karate style in the world. — André

Nakayama Masatoshi Sensei, the greatest propagator of the SHOTOKAN style post WW2.

 © André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2022).

Additional Home Training (Supplementary Practice)

In addition to daily dojo training/practice I always review key parts of each session at home. Often these sessions are short but, sometimes like today, I get into my dogi and do an hour--or even longer--of 'homework'. Over the years I have found these practices to be invaluable, just like at university when studying for a major exam.

Home practice today. At 46 years old I still review my trainings after dojo-geiko.

Kurumaisu-karate challenges the johanshin (upper body) in isolation.

 In addition to really refining one's karate, each home/non dojo-training helps 'to make time in the dojo more productive' and enjoyable! Not to mention it is good for the health. The benefits of short bursts of regular exercise have been well documented in recent years.

Last, but not least, people can make such practices in accordance with their daily schedules; thereby, making it possible "...to keep improving irrespective of how busy one is". What's more, this practice will contribute to your productivity outside the realms of karate!

OSU!  - AB

© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2022).

The Autumn/Fall weather has finally reached Oita

 Finally, the Autumn/Fall weather has reached Oita City. While warm-ups may take a little longer, trainings will certainly be a bit more pleasant and easier to endure without the high humidity here in Kyushu. Irrespective of what we prefer, we must always see the positive.

Recently I've 'amped up my training'. New specified goals set for the remainder of 2022 and the first quarter of 2023.

 

Greetings and best wishes from Japan. OSU, Andre Bertel.

Enjoying a post admin stroll today near Oita University before heading to the dojo for training.

 

 © André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2022).

Karate Kata: Funakoshi Sensei's Direct Teachings

 I recently found a text by senior students of Funakoshi Gichin Sensei, in Japanese (from ‘Karatedo Essentials’), which I thought was well worth translating into English. It is a concise piece about KARATE KATA, which is said to reflect Funakoshi Sensei's direct teachings.  – André Bertel

“Kata has been handed down since ancient times as a practice method that allows anyone to repeat and perfect the essential movements of the body for self-defense, even when one is without a training partner.

 

The various kata are said to have originated from what our predecessors left behind and tried to pass down to the next generation; namely, training forms which result in the ability to protect one’s own life in self-defense, when one’s life is at stake; that is, to control an attacker in an actual conflict.

 

Our predecessors compiled the main points of the movement that can control the opponent as a form. To more specifically expand on this point, as you master the movements contained in the kata you will naturally learn how to use your body in the most optimum and instantaneous manner.

 

As you practice kata over and over again your body becomes softer and your actions become stronger. In addition to this, the pursuit of thoughts, required by each movement, leads to the discovery of the deeper techniques of Karate-Do.

 

There is no difference in the process and results of kata practice between those of our predecessors and those of today.

 

The established kata of the SHOTOKAN are as follows: Taikyoku (unique to the Shotokan), Heian, Tekki, Bassai, Kanku, Jutte, Hangetsu, Enpi, Gankaku and Jion.”

 

 Later on, in the text it is worth mentioning that there is also great emphasis on the ‘landing of the feet’ when moving in kihon and kata; in particular, making no sound and being both swift and adaptive/elusive. Also as stated in my translation above, much focus was on fluid power, relaxation and swiftness of the limbs to maximize impact power. If nothing else, my hope is that this post has brought you the reader closer to Funakoshi Sensei's direct teachings. I, for one, found it both fascinating and educational as a Shotokan practitioner. I'll wrap up on that note today. OSU!

 
© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2022).

Karate for Self-Defense: Funakoshi Gichin Sensei's Karate 'Way'

One of the things that Funakoshi Gichin Sensei recognized was that ideally, karate—in the case of self-defense for the average Japanese citizen in his day—needed to “…increase the distance from the opponent or opponents when defensive and counteroffensive measures”. This was especially in consideration of attackers concealing weapons, the commonality of multiple attackers and, indeed, against those who are grappling specialists. Keep in mind here how much time Funakoshi Sensei spent with Kano Jigoro Sensei, the founder of Judo, and in the Kodokan—the Mecca of Judo. 

In sum, he refined karate “…to cater for the self-defense of the average person with no interest in fighting”; rather, to maximize the chances of survival when suddenly attacked. 

 

This elucidates again, what I’ve written and lectured about in the past: ‘Karate was never a fighting (dueling) art, it was designed and has technically evolved (amongst the budo practitioners) purely for unarmed self-protection’.

 

Again, that brings us to probably the most famous saying in karate, again from Funakoshi Sensei: 空手道に先手無し (KARATE-DO NI SENTE NASHI). There is no first attack in karate.

 

Many people now believe that karate is not effective and, such quotes, when understood ‘out of context’ (and understanding of what real karate is) adds to this misconception.

 

The simple fact is “…How one trains their karate is how effective one will be”—and I must add here—“irrespective of ‘style’ or ryuha/kaiha”.

In saying that, some still claim that the prospect of karate being effective in street self-defense, is nil.

 

This presumption is both wrong and too simplistic. Such a blanket statement is irrefutably folly.

 

Karate is as good as any other art for self-defense—if rudimentary self-protection is the aim. And, yes, for the majority of people in the world, rudimentary self-defense is more than enough. Especially, “when they are taught properly and train to develop highly effective, adaptable and reliable skills”.

 

So, some might criticize the Shotokan Way, including 空手道に先手なし… But if they do, they have clearly never experienced true karate, nor understand ‘what karate was actually designed for’ (as stated in the opening of this article). This is a shame, but it’s not their fault, as real karate is an increasing rarity. 

 

To reiterate, karate was not designed for competitive fighting, but to deal with an unprovoked attack. Expanding on this point, it was specifically designed for normal people who simply want to mind their own business and, if absolutely necessary, stop an attacker or attackers.  That is, karate was designed ‘to survive’ not to duel.

 

Again, and of course, as stated above, “…karate will never have this capacity (its ‘original technical objective’) unless this is literally and concertedly ‘the constant objective’ in each individual’s training”. 

 

To conclude, if karate is trained properly, in, dare I say,—‘ the traditional/bujutsu way’—the practitioner WILL possess highly effective defensive and counteroffensive skills. This underpins ichigeki-hissatsu, which just like karate as a whole, is also misunderstood. This is not my opinion but ‘WHAT TRUE KARATE IS’. Overall, this is why ‘Karatedo ni sente nashi’ is so important in both defense and counteroffensive measures. True karate is not a game. Lastly, if you’d like to read more on this topic, here’s a link to an article I wrote in 2009, which ties in nicely with this one: http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2009/12/traditional-karate-fighter.html

 

                     © André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2022).