Technical Maturity

Yesterdays training was focused on the following techniques practiced in the stationary fashion: (1) kizami-zuki; (2) gyaku-zuki; (3) oi-zuki; (4) mae-geri; and (5) mae ashi mae-geri. Stances employed were heiko-dachi, zenkutsu-dachi, han zenkutsu-dachi and neko-ashi dachi.
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Stance length and stance recovery: The technical points being worked on were exact stance length (without obstructing proper hip action in punching techniques). The focus here was a balance between horizontal and vertical alignment as opposed to the vanity or 'physical exercise purposes' of making a 'long stance'. And in the case of the kicks, the fundamental point of 'rapid return to the stance' was highlighted. Just to clarify, this was not focused so much on the hiki-ashi, as it was focused on quick stance recovery... Yes, all very basic stuff, but physically very challenging.

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Superfluous action: The other aspect worked on, which I've always found terribly hard during intense stationary practice, is the complete removal of additional/superfluous movement. This is tough when you are blasting out say 'jodan kizami-zuki kara chudan gyaku-zuki' and are getting very tired. However, this is a telltale that unnecessary power is being used, or unnecessary muscles... Visualisation of the spine was used to correct this with all of the above mentioned techniques.

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Kata: No full kata were practiced however a few sequences from various kata were used to apply the above points drilled in the kihon-geiko. Firstly, the opening of Unsu up until the final gyaku-zuki before going to the ground for mawashi-geri. Secondly, and also from Unsu, the two haito-uchi combinations concluding with migi gyaku-zuki. Thirdly, the opening movement of Jion in isolation (pictured above). And forthly, the final shuto uke in Sochin through to the mikazuki-geri and muso gamae.

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I feel that the theme, which overshadowed yesterday's practice was 'technical maturity', which is largely based on 'moderation'. Practicing in zenkutsu dachi, and not obstructing hip action, via excessive stance length, is just one small example of ' technical moderation' (which is the cornerstone of technical maturity in karate).

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© André Bertel, Japan (2009).