Final Group Training for 2008

I thought I’d provide an overview of the final group lesson of 2008. For those of you who haven’t lived and trained here in Japan, hopefully it will provide some interesting reading, and perhaps some ideas, for your own karate practice.
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Kizami-zuki kara gyaku-zuki soshite... After warming up and the standard repetitions of stationary chudan gyaku-zuki, and kizami-zuki kara gyaku-zuki, Tachibana Shihan had us once again fire out kizami-zuki kara gyaku-zuki. However, this time, we continued on with a 180 degree turning gyaku-zuki. From this position, keeping the rear foot fixed, we had to stretch our stances for a very long kizami-zuki. To recover, contract the lead leg back into a ‘normal zenkutsu-dachi shomen’ simultaneously punching gyaku-zuki. From this position, the drill simply restarted.

Jiyu-kumite specific variation: After a brief ‘rehydration period’ we once again executed the drill, but this time from jiyu-kumite no kamae. The other major difference was to train the support/driving-leg in a ‘gymnastically superior’ fashion. This was to ensure maximum power is generated from the back leg and that the body weight is fully committed. Essentially this was achieved by taking three big ‘support leg hops’ for distance (whilst deeply compressing the springing leg) then exploding forward with a large scale gyaku-zuki.

Sen no sen (taking the initiative earlier): After ample practice we moved onto partner applications utilising the three hops as a means to train attacks with tobi-konde gyaku-zuki. Focus was twofold: Firstly, the connection between the support leg and the fist going ‘through the opponent’. And secondly, attacking from a very long distance. Initially we practiced moving directly in ‘on the line’, and later, going past the opponent whilst hitting. When ‘going past’ we were required to get our lead leg alongside the opponent’s rear leg. In both cases, this was supplemented by Asai-ryuha fundamental methods of ‘jamming’ and ‘freezing’ opponents with tate-shuto, seiryuto, and/or kake uke. Variations included: (a) Opening and unbalancing with kake uke namely to the inside and outside of the elbow joint; (b & c) Controlling the opponent by freezing/jamming either the front or rear shoulder joints with tate-shuto and seiryuto.

Go no sen (taking the initiative later): Shihan then demonstrated the above three karada no buki to neutralize incoming attacks with kizami-zuki and gyaku-zuki. He also briefly reviewed the basic ‘leg blocks’ to freeze the opponent’s stance, and also deflect/jam kicks (focusing on the hip, knee and ankle joints). The leg blocks Tachibana Shihan brilliantly demonstrated included uchi and soto ashikubi kake uke, sokuto and sokutei osae uke, amongst others.

Ashi-barai: Next it was on to inside and outside leg sweeps by following the same principles vigorously practiced in the previous drill. We initiated our attack with the same gyaku-zuki. From here we made three rearward ‘support leg hops’ coordinated with mae ashi-barai to sweep the opponent. Once again, like the initial gyaku-zuki, the key was not focusing the ‘action limb’, but rather, the commitment of full-body weight, via the support leg. The hops truly tested if you were doing this correctly, and as stated before, were gymnastically excellent for the training the supporting leg. In the case of the first ‘hop’ not downing your partner, Tachibana Shihan told us to hop again, and again, until the opponent is floored.

Kiba dachi de ashi barai: We practiced the classic inside and outside leg sweeps with kiba-dachi. This built up to ducking under a kizami-zuki then downing the opponent. In addition to ducking and entering, we also practiced rapidly switching the legs then pivoting in for the sweep. Kaiten-shinagara was not covered today.

Kata and kihon oyo kumite: To complete the lesson we executed Junro-shodan three times, Junro-nidan three times and Junro-sandan two times. After completing each of them we did the corresponding kihon oyo kumite. Tachibana Shihan emphasised that “The Junro kata were developed by Asai Shuseki-Shihan specifically for kumite”. So in addition to going through the standard applications, and some variations, each person had to demonstrate their own interpretation for different sequences within the kata. Overall a great way to end an excellent karate training session... Really speaking, more of a 'lesson' than merely a 'work out'.
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To conclude I’d like to say that I deeply appreciate the excellent tuition I’ve received this year from Tachibana Shihan (JKS 8th Dan). Domo arigato gozaimasu Shihan. Likewise, I’d like to thank the members of the Japan Karate Shotorenmei Oita Sohonbu for their camaraderie. I look forward to returning to group training with you all on January 10th.

OSU, André
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© André Bertel, Japan 2008

Loving karate

I’m really looking forward to the final group training of the year, being held at the dojo this Saturday. At last week’s group training we literally did both Bassai-dai then Kanku-dai ten times, in addition to jiyu (free-choice) kata to warm up the body. The hardest part of the session was surviving all of the Bassai and Kanku, after doing some really intensive kihon. Come on, you've gotta love it!!! I’ll give you a brief description (just below) of this practice, as I found it to be ‘particularly tough’, but typical of 'karate here in Japan'. I’m writing this in high anticipation for this weeks 'big' class, which really comes back to the title of this post 'loving karate'. Not teaching, thinking about, typing about, or anything else, but simply loving the sweat, and often blood loss, in hard karate-keiko.
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Junbi-undo (Preparatory exercises): The jiyu-kata training we did was literally straight after the junbi undo, so it was the easiest part of the session. I focused on Junro and Unsu. Actually Tachibana Shihan had not arrived at the dojo yet, so the senior present, Sumi san, told everyone to do jiyu-kata. About 15 minutes later, Shihan arrived, and immediately spotted that some of the younger black belts hadn’t reached a good sweat. He was infuriated, so after ‘roughing them up’, the training session really began!

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Kihon-keiko: The kihon we did was as follows: (1) Stationary chudan gyaku-zuki from tate-shuto kamae (I think 30 with each hand, if not, more); (2) Stationary jodan kizami zuki typically followed by chudan gyaku zuki as a renzokuwaza (100 times on both sides); (3) Stationary mae geri to the front followed by yoko kekomi to the side returning back to zenkutsu dachi shomen, without dropping the kicking foot (100 times each side). Then finally ‘the nails in the coffin’… (4) Stationary gyaku zuki, followed by yoko kekomi to the front, then jodan kizami zuki (50 times each side)... Hips, hips and more hips!

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Kata-keiko: After a ‘blink of an eye’ break, it was on to the kata portion of the class… Bassai-dai and Kanku-dai were the order of the day. Whether 16 or 60, everyone was already shattered at this point, so to execute 10 Bassai and 10 Kanku was particularly strenuous. We were lucky to get a couple of breaks (gasps of beautiful oxygen and muscle recovery in slack musubi dachi) during Kanku-dai when Tachibana Shihan demonstrated 'Asai Shuseki-Shihan like' applications for ura zuki/hiza geri followed by going to the ground. And the last section of the kata from tateshihon nukite/te osae uke onwards. This was the only kumite featured in this class.

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More kihon and the completion of keiko: To cover yoko keage, which was not included in the kihon practiced earlier, we also went through Heian-nidan and Heian-yondan. This training was related back to the various yoko keage found in Kanku-dai. To wind down the 2.5 hour practice we executed yoko keage, simultaneously with uraken yokomwashi uchi, about 30 to 50 times (consecutively on both sides). This was concluded by some well-needed partner stretches and ‘heavenly time’ in mokuso.
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Thanks to my teacher, Tetsuhiko Asai, 30 years down the track, I progressively love karate more and more, no matter how hard training is . Why? Because I train with the heart of a mukyu (total beginner), just as Sensei did throughout his life . Honestly following this 'karate way', has meant that my ego cannot restrict my submission to vigorous practice, and the harsh scrutiny required for ongoing development. For more information on my my 'practice philosophy' please read my March 16th article on shoshin wasuru bekaraku: http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2008/03/shoshin-wasuru-bekarazu.htmlebertel.blogspot.com/2008/03/shoshin-wasuru-bekarazu.html This is the biggest key of self-motivation and an ongoing/evolving passion for the art. Simply keep loving your 'karate training', and forget the rest!

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OSU

© André Bertel, Japan 2008

Asai Sensei's final international interview republished

As most of you will probably know, I conducted Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei’s final international interview, which appeared in Shotokan Karate Magazine, just a few months prior to his passing. The interview itself was conducted in Ohope, the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. It has just been republished on ‘The Shotokan Way’ online resource (www.theshotokanway.com).

"A few weeks ago we introduced an archive interview with T. Asai from a few years ago that had been conducted by the excellent Andre Bertel – Who kindly has allowed us to use another of his interviews with this legendary Master! Here in this Interview with T. Asai, Andre Bertel yet again poses questions to try and get to the source of this man’s unique approach to karate. I would like to say a huge thank you to Andre for being kind enough to allow us to use this superb interview!" – Shaun Banfield.

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Here is the direct link to the interview: http://www.theshotokanway.com/asaisenseiarchiveinterview2.html

© André Bertel, Japan 2008

Teaching Seminars in Hawaii

This 'new' video footage I've just uploaded tonight on Youtube was actually taken in early 2003 (in Honolulu, Hawaii). Asai Sensei had invited me to go to Hawaii for his seminars there, and used me as his demonstration assistant for most of the time.

Slightly off-topic, I introduced my student Matthew Brew, to Asai Sensei and Mrs. Asai at this seminar. Matt later became a student of Mrs. Asai in Tokyo, learning her Kiho-cise. Matt, if you read this, I've misplaced your contact details. Please fire me an email! andre.mizuho@hotmail.co.jp

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After the seminars with Asai Shuseki-Shihan, Charles Lee Sensei (Chief Instructor of JKS Hawaii & 'Technical Director' of Japan Karate Shotorenmei USA: http://www.jks-americas.com/) requested that I teach him and his students some new Asai-ryuha kata. Firstly I privately taught Charles Lee several times; then a small group of black belts at Edward Fujiwara Sensei's dojo; then finally taught a few sessions to Lee Sensei and his senior JKS Hawaii students (as seen in this footage) at both the JCC dojo, and the Waiau dojo.

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The new kata I taught them were Shotei-dai and Rakuyo (Asai Sensei recommended that I teach them these two kata , prior to his departure. He also ordered me to call him, immediately upon my return to New Zealand, to report how things went). Additionally, I corrected their Senka, which Lee Sensei and his black belts had learned incorrectly, from Asai Sensei's video tapes.

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A pat on the back or a set-up for a joke? Asai Sensei later congratulated me, when I telephoned him from New Zealand, telling me that I was the first instructor to introduce these kata ('Rakuyo and Shotei-dai') to the United States. But then said, "if wrong, Andre-kun, big trouble!" I now know he was joking, but in saying that at the time I didn't! Asai Sensei was very different to me in private training and in Japan (than when he taught open seminars, especially when he was outside of Japan). When he smiled and laughed (when teaching or examining students), it actually wasn't a good sign. Asai Sensei in private trainings, had no smiles, and was always very-very serious. I will discuss Japanese 'tate-mae' in a future article.

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So what's in the footage? Well, really speaking, nothing spectacular, as I'm mostly 'walking' the JKS Hawaii black belt members, and Sensei Lee (pictured next to me on the Youtube 'video thumbnail'), 'through the motions' of Shotei-dai and Rakuyo. In saying that, the footage is special to me because I was teaching karate in Hawaii, and it was interesting to see the technical standards of the black belts there.

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Click on the link if you wish to view the video: http://jp.youtube.com/watch?v=5Oijw2xpzTU

© André Bertel, Japan 2008

New video of Asai Sensei on Youtube

I've just uploaded a clip on Youtube of Asai Sensei, slapping yours truly around with various open hand techniques. The emphasis in this clip is namely karada no buki (the weapons of the body): Karada no buki demonstrated include fundamental techniques with 'Shuto' (the sword hand); 'Tate-shuto' (the vertical sword hand); 'Seiryuto' (the ox jaw hand); 'Teisho' (the palm heel); 'Koko' (the tiger mouth); and 'Kakuto' (the bent wrist).

You can click here to check it out: http://jp.youtube.com/watch?v=zGX6ty6jp-k

A big Oyasumi nasai from Kyushu, Japan.

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© André Bertel, Japan 2008

The NATURAL ELEMENT KATA

There are five formal exercises referred to as the ‘Shizen no kata’ (natural kata), nicknamed in English as ‘The Natural Element Kata’, by my late karate teacher, Asai Tetsuhiko.
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To state the obvious, only one, Unsu/Unshu, is amongst the ‘standard’ 26 Shotokan forms. However, Asai Sensei claimed that the other four kata, Kashu (Hi no te), Suishu (Mizu no te), Roshu (Nami no te) and Hushu (Kaze no te) were also koten (ancient/classical) kata. Other comments by Sensei suggested that Suishu, Hushu, Roshu and Kashu were actually ‘hybrid kata’ combining/recording a variety of koten-waza (ancient/classical techniques). I believe Asai Sensei did indeed engineer them based on numerous martial arts techniques, and strategies, not found within mainstream Shotokan. I personally think that these techniques came from a combination of Chinese Boxing, the karate of Okinawa, and Sensei's own kumite experimentation. Regardless of their origin, as a personal student of Asai Sensei, I didn’t concern myself with their history, only to improve my ability as a martial artist, based on his ‘karate way’.
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The reason Asai Sensei introduced the additional four ‘Natural Element Kata’: Sensei taught these kata to provide himself with a clear canvas to teach 'natural movement'. He said to me that “Unsu is enough, however, when teaching at courses, it is often difficult to correct peoples ‘use of energy’, they turn into robots * when you ask them to perform one of the famous Shotokan kata”. By teaching Kashu, Hushu, Suishu and/or Roshu, Asai Sensei could capture each students complete attention, (via their enthusiasm to learn something new, such as a fascinating kata) and therefore open up their minds to using ‘natural energy’.
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* Asai Sensei often said that "WKF karate kata is rubbish, it's gymnastics not fighting kata". He hated sports karate because he claimed it was invalidating karate as an effective martial art.

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Profiles of the natural element kata: Originally, when I started to compose this article, I thought of giving individual profiles of Unsu, Kashu, Suishu, Roshu and Hushu, based on what Asai Sensei told me candidly. However, I changed my mind, as that is not what Asai Sensei really emphasized. I know 100% that he would have preferred me to give a broader explanation based on 'natural movement', which is what these kata are primarily for. If I were to give descriptive explanations, based on what he said, I'm sure you'd be distracted by visualizations of calm rivers suddenly turning into rapids; the fluctuating energy of waves and tsunami's; typhoon's and tornado's; the unpredictable movements of forest fires; and the like. When Asai Sensei demonstrated movements, they really resembled these descriptions, and sadly, I cannot put these phenomenal displays of karate into words. Perhaps the best thing I can say, to anyone who reads this, is that Asai Sensei closely analyzed nature to develop his movement, and used the 'natural elements' as his own 'sensei'.

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For me personally, the practice of Kashu, Hushu, Roshu and Suishu has significantly enhanced my kata and kihon for effective fighting. Why? Because they have taught me that effectiveness is determined by natural movement. As Asai Sensei stressed about the forms he introduced; "There is no problem merely focusing on the famous Shotokan kata, but if you do, use natural energy. Don't perform kata just to look nice, do it for real fighting. Kata is more beautiful when it is bujutsu."

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OSU!

© André Bertel, Japan 2008

Wedding Anniversary

To celebrate our 2nd Wedding Anniversary we stayed in central Fukuoka at the beautiful Seahawk Hotel. We had to delay the celebration until the weekend (the 6th and 7th) as the anniversary fell on Wednesday, the 3rd of December.
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In addition to enjoying the luxury of the five star hotel, by recommendation from Hoshuyama Sensei, we had a very special dinner at Il Sogno (you can check out the their website here: http://www.ilsogno.jp/). Sensei and his wife celebrated their 30th Wedding Anniversary there, so we were very honored. Mizuho and I are very grateful for Hoshuyama Sensei's very kind recommendation (and even advice on directions to avoid the snow storm that hit Northern Kyushu). Domo arigato gozaimasu Hoshuyama Sensei!
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The five-course meal at Il Sogno was absolutely delicious, and the service was impeccable. I can only extend Hoshuyama Sensei's recommendation for this excellent Italian restaurant. If you are in Hakata, and enjoy high-class dining, Il Sogno is a must.

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I'd like to end by thanking my karate students who have sent us messages to commemorate our anniversary.
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André & Mizuho

© André Bertel, Japan 2008

Winter Training Regime

Finally I’ve up updated my training regime leading into the Japanese winter and the imminent kangeiko. I’ve made some profound changes, however, I’m not sure how significant they might seem to someone reading this? Nevertheless, I’ll outline them here, and from my commentary, hopefully you’ll see that they are particularly significant for me as a karate practitioner. As December looms, I happily can look back on 2008, and honestly say that it has been my most productive year, ever, insofar as my karate technique is concerned. My goal is to keep following this ‘karate way’, which was ‘set’ in January (when I upgraded myself to mukyu: click here to see my New Years day post – which set my practice pattern for 2008: http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2008/01/new-years-day-2008.html).

On to the business… Here's my latest self-training routine.

KIHON
(1) Oi zuki kara niren choku zuki. Emphasis on perfect hiki-te and punch ‘connection’ and complete body power regardless of intensity/energy applied. Drive from kakato for oi zuki and ‘hips into the target’; (2) Gyaku zuki. Fundamental training of koshi no kaiten in stationary zenkutsu-dachi, also perfect co-ordination of tai no shinshuku from the compressed zenkutsu; (3) Mae keriage. Stationary practice from heisoku dachi and zenkutsu dachi. ‘Extreme’ compression in the load-up and hiki-ashi is the main focus. (4) Jodan age uke/Chudan soto uke/Chudan uchi uke/Gedan barai. Quite simply a full wind up of the torso (tight shomen) and full hanmi insofar as the ukewaza are concerned. In regards to the arms, Asai Sensei style ‘muchiken’ application of ‘snap’ power, that is, each technique is a whip like attack. (5) Chudan shuto uke. Focus on ‘locking in the posture’ on shuto uke and correct ‘line’ in kokutsu-dachi hanmi. Essentially, I am seeking a greater control over this technique, which to me, is 'forever' a challenge.

KATA
This month the focus is on Heian (presently Yondan and Godan), Tekki, Enpi, Jion and Unsu. The Heian kata are to address my core power sources, which need to be further explored, not to mention just getting to grips with kihon in general (a never ending challenge). Tekki (as always) to deal with infighting application, also to push my alignment, as mentioned in my shuto uke comments above. Jion, for perfection of the fundamentals that really matter in a real fight. And to be honest, I can never get past this kata… It is just technically so very deep - an 'exemplary' Shotokan kata. And Unsu for desert... Sheer technical diversity, dynamism and explosiveness. Gojushiho (Dai) has been dropped out of my training schedule.

KUMITE
I’ve really been motivated by Paul Kallander’s blog to practice my kaiten uraken uchi, which is Yahara Mikio Sensei’s tokui-waza. Asai Sensei referred to Yahara Sensei’s uraken as being “phenomenal”. He also said to me that “Yahara Sensei is the most dangerous karateka that the JKA Honbu ever produced”. I personally think that such a comment makes study of Yahara Sensei’s technique essential for anyone serious about JKA style Shotokan karate. My other focal point has been to further refine ‘go no sen’ or ‘taking the initiative later’. In jiyu kumite practice at the local dojo I attend, I’m essentially using deai all the time. What I’d like to emphasize here (especially for those without a JKA background) is that I’m not working on countering, but rather attacking, using my opponents initiation to my advantage (using their ma'ai, and both physical and mental 'gaps'). This training is not easy for me as sen no sen is my natural inclination, but is clearly optimal for my physique, talents, and weaknesses.

So that pretty much sums up my present karate practice schedule and should take me well into December. Where ever you are around the world, and regardless of style, organization and nationality, I wish you all the very best in your own karate training.

OSU, André.

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© André Bertel, Japan 2008

Goodbye Autumn

Yesterday evening after karate keiko, to mark the final week of Autumn here in Japan, we drove two hours to Taketa City to visit Yujaku Koen for KOYO (紅葉). Coincidentally the park grounds are known for martial arts training, as the local bushi (warriors) used to extensively practice their strategic horsemanship and archery there. The beauty of the Autumn leaves and near-perfect mirror like reflections in the lake, located in the centre of the forest, has made Yujaku Koen very popular in Kyushu.

Anyway I thought I would share some photos of the beautiful Yujaku Koen with you. You can click on the images to enlarge them.

PS - I have updated my training regime and this will be uploaded in the next couple of days. My appologies to those of you who have emailed me asking when I'd put it online.

Kindest regards to everyone from Kyushu, Japan.

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© André Bertel, Japan 2008

Karate Internet Forums

As some know I got particularly annoyed with karate internet forums. So much so, that I said some things I regret. Mostly I was just being nasty and highly sarcastic, as there were just too many idiots participating. Basically I was enjoying the comedy of it all. For this reason I ceased from participating in forums.
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I should have never bothered participating in the first place! The majority of posting I did was in-between teaching classes/training, sitting in the dojo office bored (and trying to get my energy back). I also posted a lot when waiting for my then fiancée, Mizuho, to come online (when she was here in Japan and I was back in New Zealand).

99% of people posting on internet karate forums are people who think too much and need to train more. Far more! The main participants simply haven’t got the technical skills or knowledge to back up what they say. There are certainly some excellent karateka who participate in karate forums, but in my opinion, certainly not enough to waste ones time chatting with, especially in such an amatuer environment.

Karate is all about physical training, and of course study of the art to improve one’s physical training. Obviously karate internet forums offer no training, and knowledge-wise, little more than trivial rubbish. I’m by no means questioning the integrity of those operating internet karate forums. However, karate forums have served little, if any benefit to the karateka who participate in them. I agree that potentially, karate internet forums could be useful, if people were using the knowledge in them to train... But with little investigation, it is not hard to see that the majority of content is crap, with little or no insight. This is because the participants are more interested in typing than they are in actual karate training itself.
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Waffling on with people I don’t know, and for the most part, people who clearly know nothing about karate, is nothing more than wasting valuable time. If I’m going to type something about karate now, I simply do it here on my blog, where it hopefully benefits peoples ‘karate training’.

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© André Bertel, Japan 2008

Nishiyama Sensei dies at age 80

I just read that Hidetaka Nishiyama Sensei passed away last Friday (November 7th, 2008).
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Whilst I was never associated with him in any way, he was always ‘as senior as one can get’ amongst Shotokan practitioners. Quite simply, the name 'Hidetaka Nishiyama' immediately summoned your attention, especially if you have any links to the JKA. I remember Asai Sensei talked about his 'direct seniors' in his youth, especially Nishiyama Sensei and Kase Sensei. Sadly now, Asai Sensei, and both of these masters, are gone. One thing I will never forget was Asai Sensei telling me that his style, and what he taught, was “perfectly opposite to Mr. Nishiyama’s karate way”. He never said this negatively, he merely pointed it out to demonstrate the diversity amongst the kohai/deshi of Nakayama Sensei.

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A true karate pioneer: Here are just a few of the achievements that this legendary Shotokan master is internationally known for... Nishiyama Sensei was a co-founding member of the JKA (Japan Karate Association); the founder/chairman of the ITKF/International Traditional Karate Federation (previously the IAKF/International Amateur Karate Federation; - which ran the first few JKA World Championships); and the founder of JKA karate in the United States. It truly is an understatement to say that Mr. Nishiyama made a mark in the karate world! His influence was huge! For more information you can check out the ITKF website: http://www.itkf.org/
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I’d like to use this opportunity to give my condolences to the many students of Nishiyama Sensei, especially those in the ITKF, who have become my friends over the years. I sincerely wish you all the very best in keeping your teachers karate-do alive.

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© André Bertel, Japan 2008

Uncut Asai Sensei Interview on TSW

A while back Shaun Banfield from 'The Shotokan Way' contacted me about archiving some of my interviews with Asai Sensei.

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Shaun eloquently sold the idea to me with the following statement. "we are trying to expand TSW and make it as thorough and deep a resource as possible, with old and new material. We always have an influx of new material, but we are also eager to make this a primary resource to learn more about the many wonderful teachers in the world.”
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You can read the uncut version of the December 3rd (2003) interview by clicking here: http://www.theshotokanway.com/tasaiarchive1.html

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© André Bertel, Japan 2008

Palmerston North Karate Instructor visits

Morgan Dilks Sensei (4th Dan), New Zealand Chief Instructor of the USKU (Universal Shotokan Karate Union), came for some one-on-one tuition at my dojo this weekend. Dilks Sensei teaches Shotokan in Palmerston North, and it has been nearly two years since Mizuho and I last saw him. We also got to spend some great times catching up with his wife Yuko, and met his unbelievably very cute baby daughter, Yuri.
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I wont give a report on what I took Morgan through, as that is for him and his students. However, in addition to the two hour practice on the Saturday, prior to his departure this morning, we took some outdoor photos. With the private training he did here, and also he'll be receiving from Fukumizu Sensei in Miyazaki, I'm sure he'll be returning to New Zealand with lots of new, and refined knowledge, for his own training, and for his students!

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I asked if Morgan could make some comments, about his dojo, here on my blog, which he kindly agreed to do. Here is what he had to say: "My dojo is under the umbrella of Universal Shotokan Karate Union (USKU), which was established by my instructor, Fukamizu Kenichi Shihan (7th Dan) in Miyazaki-ken, Japan. The focus is on traditional Shotokan training, and preserving the karate that I`ve been lucky enough to have been exposed to whilst living in Japan, and continue to maintain, through regular training visits. If any of your readers are living in, or visiting Palmerston North, they are most welcome to come and train".
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Morgan is a person I have great respect for, and are proud to be his friend. He is a great person, kind hearted, calm spirited, and loves to train. I recommend his dojo to anyone interested in learning traditional Japanese karate-do in Palmerston North. For more information on class times, dojo location, contact details, and so forth, please visit his website: http://www.usk.co.nz/

© André Bertel, Japan 2008

Japanese Temples and Shrines

Finally the weather has reached an optimum period for outdoor training, in particular, at local temple grounds, and around the various shrines. No longer do I have to put up with multiple mosquito bites, and people coming over to get a free karate exhibition. At most, I occasionally get a friendly "ohayo gozaimasu" or “konnichi wa” from a Buddhist monk or Shinto priest.
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Coming from Christchurch, New Zealand, known as 'the Garden City', I have to admit that, comparatively speaking, Japanese parks are downright ugly. However, religious and cultural monuments are equally, if not, more gorgeous. In my experience, from my many times here in Japan, the very best gardens and parks in this country (with the least foot traffic) are located at the temples and shrines. The castles are also beautiful, however, people are always wandering around.

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Karate-do and Japanese religion: Another point worth mentioning is karate's particularly strong connection to Japanese Shinto. Most of the major Shotokan karate organisations (JKA, JKS, SKIF and others) here in Japan bow to the dojo 'kamidana', before and after practice. It is essentially worshiping the 'karate god's'. This is coupled with mokuso (meditation), which is connected directly to Zen-Buddhism. Even so, I've been told by Japanese seniors that outdoor training at jinja (Shinto shrines) is more meaningful for karatedo practitioners.

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Just train! Really speaking it doesn’t matter where you practice your karate, but if you have the opportunity to train outside, an aesthetically beautiful (and quiet/undisturbed) environment is a real luxury. Such training can only further motivate you to practice what you are learning, or working on, in the dojo. Here in Japan, if you decide to do outdoor practice, you simply cannot get ‘a better spot’ than the numerous shrines and temple grounds.

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I wish you the very best in your karate training.
OSU

André Bertel

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© André Bertel, Japan 2008

Chinte

Often, at the Saturday class, Tachibana Shihan tells us to each select a kata we individually wish to work on. Last Saturday, after jiyu-kumite, I decided to do a kata which I’ve been neglecting for a fair while. The three Shotokan-ryu kata which initially came to mind were Jiin, Chinte and Wankan, I randomly chose to do Chinte, and certainly do not regret this decision! The tips, and corrections I received, turned out to be priceless.

Techniques polished by Shihan included the tate shuto uke in fudo-dachi hanmi followed by tate zuki in zenkutsu-dachi shomen; teisho soto uke moving into fudo dachi hanmi followed by teisho hasami uchi into zenkutsu dachi shomen; ryo sho sokumen gedan barai; seiken hasami zuki; and the three infamous hops, which conclude the kata. Each of these techniques were analysed from an oyo-jutsu (technique application) viewpoint, and this was perfectly related to the standard JKA-Shotokan form. I have to say that this bunkai, and co-adherence to the classical form, was a "real treat" for me... Phenomenal! It was by far the very best tuition I’ve ever received on Chinte kata.

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The tuition I received during this training session made me re-evaluate my view of Chinte, and more importantly, further open my mind to other kata, which I've been neglecting. Such experiences for me really establish why 'I'm living in Japan'. It is insufficient to simply come here to train for a couple of weeks (like so many do and brag about it). In reality you need to be in Japan, training daily, for at least a month, merely to get 'a feeling' of traditional Japanese karate-do, and ideally train here for many years, under an 8th or 9th Dan Shihan.

OSU, André.

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© André Bertel, Japan 2008

Good Refereeing

I was really pleased to be given the responsibility of Shimpan-Cho (Chief Referee) at last week’s JKS (Japan Karate Shotorenmei) regional kata championships. Whilst the tournament was only for youth competitors, it was still a great honor to have the top job.
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Initially I was a bit rusty, as I have not judged/refereed for nearly two years, however everything was back up-to-speed after ten minutes. The entire time, in between rounds, I received constructive feedback from Tachibana Shihan (8th Dan JKS) who sat behind me as the arbitrator. It was really great to learn some new skills/"tricks" from such a highly experienced JKA/JKS Japan/International referee. Such tips can only lead to greater professionalism as a competition official.
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Another personal highlight for me was the use of Asai Shuseki-Shihan’s kata in the competition. It was great to see the 10th kyu competitors having to use Jo no kata, and the higher grades also needing to pass through a round of Junro (relevant to their kyu or dan rank). For all of the rounds we used the JKA/JKS flag system; that is, with both competitors doing the same 'randomly called kata' simultaneously. The finals for the black belt division were from the sentei kata (Bassai, Kanku, Enpi and Jion).
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I was really pleased that all the spectators, especially the parents of the children, seemed pleased with my refereeing. As a fairly seasoned competitor, coach and Japan qualified referee, I fully understand the value of referees, who are unbiased in karate tournaments. It is really satisfying, when as an official, you sense that the crowd can detect your impartiality. Tournaments must first and fore mostly be for the competitors, and the development of their karate. A referee who maximizes this opportunity, within the rules, truly is a good referee. _________

As an off-beat comment I have to say that it is 'always special' when asked to referee in Japan, and especially so, when entrusted with the position of 'Shimpan-Cho ('Chief Referee'). I'm sure those who regularly train in Japan, and have the honor of being asked to judge at competitions, fully understand my sentiments.

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Overall I had a great time, and are thankful to Tachibana Shihan, and the Japan Karate Shoto-renmei Oita-Prefecture Headquarters for making me the shimpan-cho at this tournament. Regardless of winning or losing, I hope the boy’s and girl’s who competed in this event, view it as merely another benchmark, along their respective karate path's.

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© André Bertel, Japan 2008

Post 100 on Andre Bertel's Karate-Do

This is the 100th post here on André Bertel’s Karate-Do, which I kind of think is a milestone, so I thought I’d try something different. As I receive so many emails from people asking various questions (which I rarely have the time to answer), I thought I’d offer to reply to these publicly, as a post on my blog.
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If you are keen to participate, just send some questions with your name and location attached. If you wish to remain anonymous, please clearly state that. However, I’ll publish what country/city/region you are from. Questions can be on anything ‘karate related’. Technical aspects, training methods, karate here in Japan, you name it! Brain twisters and simple ones... If you have some controversial questions, or wish to critique my karate, fire away. If it's interesting enough, it will go online. I’m open-minded to constructive criticism (one must be, if they want to progress in karate). I'll be the first person to admit that I'm still a beginner and hungry to keep improving. As stated from the onset, this website is all about training! It is about the now and the future.

Obviously if there are too many questions, I’ll select the ones, which I deem the most interesting and useful, for the site. If there are not enough questions I’ll simply can the idea.

To be decisive, the ‘close-off date’ for questions will be one week from tomorrow (Tuesday, October 14th, 2008). Please email your question (or list of questions) to www.andrebertel@hotmail.com

Kindest regards and a big "Arigato gozaimasu" to everyone who has supported my first 100 posts.

OSU, André

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© André Bertel, Japan 2008

Kokutai Karate Championships

Today I accidently bumped into a very tanned looking Yamaguchi Takashi Sensei (JKS Tokyo Sohonbu Dojo) who gave me a friendly “Osu”. He was attending this year’s Kokutai (National Athletics Meeting) currently being held in Oita Prefecture. The Karate Championship has been hosted by Nakatsu City at the purpose built Daihatsu Kyushu Arena.

Even though I admit not being into competitions, I thought I drop in to watch the senior kata divisions, and a couple of rounds of the kumite. During the shitei rounds it was pleasing to see one excellent Jion, two faultless Kanku-dai, and one amazing Empi. In the free kata rounds I saw three tremendous Unsu, and one near perfect Gojushiho-sho. I won’t comment on the Goju-ryu and Shito-ryu kata I saw, as I’m far from qualified to do so (I'm still trying to sort out my Shotokan...). But I will say that ‘they looked impressive to me’ and took out the titles. Furukawa (Goju-ryu) won the men’s kata with his Suparinpei; and that Shito-ryu girl (featured on Kagawa Sensei’s second book/dvd) who I always forget the name of, won the women’s kata with her Chatanyara-kushanku.

Sports kumite: Breaking the Trinity
The JKF / WKF style kumite, without being disrespectful, really isn’t my thing. I appreciate the athleticism and hard training of all serious karate competitors. However, I cannot relate 'game kumite' to the fundamentals and kata. As a result, this type of kumite clearly breaks the trinity of karate. The outcome is that it's not based on finishing the opponent with a single blow (ichigeki-hisho), which to me, is the heart of authentic karate technique, whether it's kihon, kata or kumite.

Needless to say, this type of 'fighting' doesn’t capture my interest. Therefore, I naturally did not stay to watch the kumite finals. Just as a quick note: I'm very sorry if you are an avid sports kumite fan, my intention is certainly not to make anyones blood boil (if annoyed please look at the Oita Kokutai's mascot 'Mejiron' to calm down). My reason for making this commentary is to merely express how I was taught, and how I practice Karate-Do. Perhaps this is worth an article in the future...

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To conclude I'd like to say that the overall standard of the kokutai was extremely high, as expected of a national tournament here in Japan. The kata was particularly inspirational and really demonstrated that Japan still produces the very best kata performers in the world. I'm sure that if many Western karateka saw the level of kata today, they'd be too embarassed to don their karate do-gi ever again!

Time for me to rush to the dojo… Take care and all the best!

Osu, André

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© André Bertel, Japan 2008

Latest Training Routine

Please excuse my lack of posts recently. I only managed to make three last month as I was being a 'slow writer' (I always endeavor to churn out four articles/posts per month). My average time writing each post is between five minutes and quarter of an hour. Once I get past 15 minutes, I cannot justify the time. Anyway… Several of my former students have emailed me, requesting I post my latest self-training routine. So here you are! I wish you all the very best in your training. – Osu! André.
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Kihon

This month I have returned to the theme of ‘simple is best’. That is, I’m working on the ‘core fundamentals’ of Shotokan-Ryu. In particular I’m focusing on koshi no kaiten with the five basic blocks (jodan age-uke, chudan soto-uke, chudan uchi-uke, gedan-barai and chudan shuto-uke) followed by the respective reverse hand counters. Emphasis is on a tight hanmi followed by a sharp rotation/forward thrust into an exact shomen. As simple as this seems, I am challenging myself to increase the sharpness of my torso action, whilst maintaining smoothness/precision. I’m also putting much effort into oi zuki and oi-geri (mae-geri, yoko-keage, mawashi-geri and yoko-kekomi). My concentration is on the drive of the rear/supporting leg. How simple can you get? Well at least for me, this training is simple, but far from easy... Lastly I’m practicing gyaku-zuki from a ‘compressed to the extreme’ jiyu-dachi concentrating on maximum tai no shinshuku and koshi no kaiten. Emphasis is once again on an extreme contraction of the stance (maintaining perfect pelvic alignment) and sharp spring/rotation/thrust into zenkutsu-dachi. Techniques include gyaku zuki with seiken, teisho, shihon nukite and yokomawashi empi uchi.

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Kata

At present the kata I’m training include a random Tekki (Tekki-Shodan, Tekki-Nidan or Tekki-Sandan), Empi, Jion, Unsu and Gojushiho-Dai. In addition to these, last month at dojo training, Tachibana Shihan (8th Dan) microscopically dissected my Gankaku making nine alterations. So, I’ve also been allocating some time to this kata to reinforce what he taught me. Gankaku is not a kata I’m overly fond of, however the alterations Tachibana Shihan taught me were all very practical. He demonstrated why these corrections would help my Gankaku with some lethal bunkai/oyo-jutsu. This was probably the best tuition I’ve ever received on this kata. I really have to say here that I'm very grateful for Tachibana Shihan’s weekly tuition! What’s more, Tachibana Shihan was also a student of Asai Shuseki-Shihan.

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Jiyu ippon kumite

I'm seeking maximum use of tai no shinshuku and koshi no kaiten in each of my counters. Essentially extreme contraction of the stance for defense, then explosive expansion/stretch for offence. The entire body, mind and spirit decisively committed in one moment of time... For the attacking techniques I'm concentrating on correct ma'ai for optimal target penetration to potentially finish my opponent.

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I'd like to add some comments to wrap up this post about kumite and karate training in general. This is something I’ve really wanted to say for a while... Too many people practice karate knowing that if they got into a violent altercation, against a really strong attacker, that their karate would probably not work (as trained in their respective dojo). Clearly, if one has such doubts their dojo is not ‘physically focused’ on real karate (ichigeki hisho - the single finishing blow) when they practice. It goes without saying, such dojo are spreading fake karate. Karate without aiming to achieve ichigeki-hisho, at all times, will literally make you less capable of handling yourself in real fight. If you are playing karate, you are ‘playing’. If you are doing karate seriously as a martial art, you are doing ‘karate’. In either case, the physical training itself is what establishes what you are actually doing. And proper physical training can only be achieved in a high stress (dangerous) environment. If you don't block properly, your face will most certainly be covered in blood, perhaps a trip to the hospital or dentist. I'm not saying I like this to happen, but without this factor, one cannot improve self-protection skills. The reality is that so many karate clubs are nothing more than 'play grounds' labeled as ‘karate dojo’.

Perhaps my mentality is now viewed as extreme, but in reality, my self-practice simply illustrates how soft so many karateka, dojo and organisations have become (playing ‘karate’). I'm not special or talented, I am simply doing, what up until the mid to late 1980's, was considered as 'orthodox karate'. My current training routine continues to follow this karate way, that is, karate as an effective martial art.

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© André Bertel, Japan 2008

Hirota 163 Dogi

Tomorrow marks one and a half years since we moved back to Japan. And what a great year and a half it has been! To celebrate, Mizuho suggested I buy a new do-gi (karate uniform), and of course I didn’t resist this idea... So we travelled to the Hirota shop in central Fukuoka to get my measurements perfect, and enjoy Hakata. As winter is coming, and many people have asked me to review the ‘Ichi roku san’ (The Hirota #163), I decided to purchase one.

Ironically I gave my last 163 to one of my students in New Zealand who is now in the Singapore Army, and since then, I have not worn one, so I was unable to directly compare the ‘Pinak kata’ with with ‘Ichi roku san’. Finally, with both a Pinak kata, and a 163 on hand, I can provide a comprehensive review, by supplementing my March post (here’s a quick link to that article: http://andrebertel.blogspot.com/2008/03/pinak-kata-dogi.html).

‘Ichi roku san’ – The Hirota 163 Do-gi
I’d like to begin by stating some obvious facts about the Ichi roku san. Firstly, it is Hirota’s premier ‘custom made’ heavyweight karate uniform. In comparison to the Pinak Kata it is much harder to maintain (harder to wash and takes much longer to dry; looks like someone is still wearing it, whilst on the washing line. – Bonus: if you are a farmer it doubles as a ‘scarecrow’). Secondly, when ordering, you must take into account the large amount of shrinkage that all heavyweight do-gi suffer. Naturally I’m stating the obvious here, however, I know of several people who have ended up having dogi, which look like something out of Peewee Herman’s closet. Thirdly, the Ichi roku san will never ‘feel’ as free as the Pinak Kata, even if it is perfectly sized. So if comfort is what you want, the Pinak Kata wins hands down. Fourthly, if you make an error with your measurements, heavyweight dogi’s will distort your form, and usually for the worst. Fifthly, in all cases, if you are not in Japan, or can’t get over here before ordering, consider contacting someone who is a karate dogi professional to help you. My suggestion is Hamid Abassalty (http://kuroobiya.com/shop/). Hamid offers an excellent service, and is obviously getting uniforms and belts for much cheaper for his company; therefore, by using his service you won’t lose any money, and ensure that you get what you want!

I’d like to conclude by mentioning the positive points about the Ichi roku san, besides the ‘free scarecrow on the washing line’ feature. For those of you who are kata competitors, probably the 163 is the best Hirota dogi for you as it is more ‘snappy’. For me that is a turn off, but I’m sure that it does sway the judges in sports karate competitions, if that’s what you’re into. Also, in my opinion, in colder climates, and colder seasons, it is much better to wear a heavier karate suit, and you can’t go past the 163 as a heavyweight. As surprising as it may sound, it does make a difference in cold weather keeping your bones just that little bit warmer! Another advantage over the Pinak kata is that when you are drenched in sweat, the 163 still sits beautifully, whereas the Pinak kata becomes pretty much ‘see-through’ and hangs like you just went for a swim in it. Lastly, in kumite, especially if you train with heavy contact, the heavyweight dogi helps to absorb blows. Likewise, they are better if you practice a lot of kata applications (with grappling) and don't want your dogi shredded.

All in all, unless proven otherwise to me, I believe that the Hirota ‘Pinak Kata’ and Hirota ‘Ichi roku san’ (163) are the two best 'delux karate uniforms' in the world. The difference is merely preference, and the ability to ensure, that what you order, is exactly what you want! As a very demanding customer (perfectionist) who knows the complexities of ordering the ideal do-gi, I hope this review has been of some help for you.

OSU, André

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© André Bertel, Japan 2008