Straight up: I think Shotokan Karate-Do offers a wide variety of self defense applications.
From Striking specialties; hand and elbow, or knee and foot. Close in fighting, or penetrate then retreat fighting, Shotokan has it all.
For me though, I view it as a controlling/Standing grappling to take down and throws as my primary attack philosophy. Striking is integral, but the ultimate goal is to either put the person on the ground in intense pain, or control their joints, typically arm, shoulder or neck, in a standing manner, using available resources, such as walls, to aid in controlling. Taking the joint to its limit as to provoke surrender. The striking is either an entering technique series, or an immediate attack from an advantageous position, such as arm/elbow/wrist control is being applied - release attack then regain control.
Throwing and Take Downs are equally important. If the opponent is on the ground in such a painful situation - thrown in such a manner as to break a limb or clavicle for example, he will be very hesitant to continue the attack which he instigated.
This is my aim. There is more of course... For another time though.
That's all for now.
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
Dojo Kun, and Personal Thoughts
Seek Perfection of Character.
Be Faithful.
Endeavor.
Respect Others.
Refrain From Violent Behavior.
http://www.iskf.com/dojo%20kun.html
and I say:
Seek First The Kingdom of Heaven.
Through Jesus Christ Alone.
Be Faithful.
Endeavor.
Respect Others.
Refrain From Violent Behavior.
http://www.iskf.com/dojo%20kun.html
and I say:
Seek First The Kingdom of Heaven.
Through Jesus Christ Alone.
Saturday, October 25, 2014
The Art of Self Correction
I think it's safe to say, "To excel at any physical endeavor you must know your own body."
Regarding karate, or any martial art, this is especially true, For it's not the mere performance of the techniques which makes one an expert, but the deeper understanding of how these movements translate to self defense scenarios and the ability to apply them in non-compliant situations.
This is where the art of self correction becomes so important. As you absorb your teacher's lessons and are corrected in the dojo, you must remember and correctly apply them on your own. As you become more proficient you begin testing what you've learned to the point of making their application your own. Listening to your body, interpreting what it's suggesting, is the best way to learn karate techniques.
For a new karateka, learning very different gross motor skills just feels "strange". As these skills (think stepping punch) are practiced they begin to make sense, but only to a certain point as dojo learned in a class situation, unless you have a knowledgeable and willing upper level student willing to spend time pointing out the finer aspects of each technique. Even with this assistance only a certain plateau of knowledge can be attained. It's the personal, self training which elevates the karateka to the next level of expertise - self training based on understanding one's body dynamics and limitations, as well as the purpose of each part of the body's synchronized members working in unison.
All technique must be seen in three stages: beginning, middle and end. The technique must be practiced repeatedly in a relaxed manner in a 1-2-3 format - slow thoughtful comprehension of the stage of the technique you are performing it is being translated from your body to your mind; then back from mind to body. The instantaneous response only comes with repetition which corrects itself through comprehension of the purpose of the technique time over time over time. Over time the practice of relaxed movement into intense kime then nearly instantaneously back to a relaxed, prepared state (to retreat or continue the attack, decisions made in milliseconds) is made natural. For this is what you strive for in karate.
Well, that's all for now.
Regarding karate, or any martial art, this is especially true, For it's not the mere performance of the techniques which makes one an expert, but the deeper understanding of how these movements translate to self defense scenarios and the ability to apply them in non-compliant situations.
This is where the art of self correction becomes so important. As you absorb your teacher's lessons and are corrected in the dojo, you must remember and correctly apply them on your own. As you become more proficient you begin testing what you've learned to the point of making their application your own. Listening to your body, interpreting what it's suggesting, is the best way to learn karate techniques.
For a new karateka, learning very different gross motor skills just feels "strange". As these skills (think stepping punch) are practiced they begin to make sense, but only to a certain point as dojo learned in a class situation, unless you have a knowledgeable and willing upper level student willing to spend time pointing out the finer aspects of each technique. Even with this assistance only a certain plateau of knowledge can be attained. It's the personal, self training which elevates the karateka to the next level of expertise - self training based on understanding one's body dynamics and limitations, as well as the purpose of each part of the body's synchronized members working in unison.
All technique must be seen in three stages: beginning, middle and end. The technique must be practiced repeatedly in a relaxed manner in a 1-2-3 format - slow thoughtful comprehension of the stage of the technique you are performing it is being translated from your body to your mind; then back from mind to body. The instantaneous response only comes with repetition which corrects itself through comprehension of the purpose of the technique time over time over time. Over time the practice of relaxed movement into intense kime then nearly instantaneously back to a relaxed, prepared state (to retreat or continue the attack, decisions made in milliseconds) is made natural. For this is what you strive for in karate.
Well, that's all for now.
Thursday, October 23, 2014
Getting Your Kicks From Kata
Some people get their kicks on Route 66. I get mine performing kata.
When performing kata for trophies high kicks are often the norm, and this makes sense since the kata is an "artistic performance". But for me, in attempting to interpret kata for real world self defense, I target my kicks to either the lower abdominal area or legs. Certainly there is a training and aesthetic benefit when performing head level kicks - and certainly there are those who can successfully use these kicks in real world situations. But for most people, I think, it would be extremely dangerous attempting to kicking someone in the head - unless they've lowered the target first via some other technique.
Take today for example: it's a wet and rainy fall day - wet leaves abound and the asphalt in the parking lot is slippery as well. If I were to be accosted while walking to my car - even if the opportunity presented itself - would it be wise to attempt a head kick as an initial strike? I think the answer is obvious - no. There are too many variables working against me. Another reason to avoid high kicks - clothing. In the dojo your gi pants are loose fit allowing greater movement, but on the street wearing your stylish tight jeans is another story. Restrictive clothing obviously restricts movement. So unless your an expert fighter when flat on your back please don't try head kicks in the tight jeans you are wearing. A third reason head kicks aren't ideal - time of day and the weather's effect on the body. When I arrive at work around 6:45 AM my body isn't nearly as flexible as it is by late afternoon. Factor in a cold winter day and I'm at an even greater disadvantage for applying techniques requiring flexibility. While this may not apply to the same degree to a twenty-something karateka, I believe it still a a factor of some degree.
Now back to kata. I think it's safe to say all kicks found in the Shotokan kata syllabus are part of a combination of techniques meant to immobilize your opponent offering you the opportunity to escape. A kick to the knee or shin, as part of flurry of techniques, may be all you need to temporarily injure your opponent enough to run and seek help and safety. A kick to the groin or lower abdomen will have the same effect - it's hard to chase someone when you're doubled over in pain. Lower kicks also are safer for the karateka as well, since they are less likely to be caught by your opponent. Additionally lower kicks can be more sneaky - you can supply sufficient power while "cheating" by not applying full leg motion as done when kicking to higher levels (look up the flick kick).
Remember, when performing and interpreting kata, keeping it real is the best way to understand its intent - and this especially applies to kicks I believe.
Well, that's all for now.
When performing kata for trophies high kicks are often the norm, and this makes sense since the kata is an "artistic performance". But for me, in attempting to interpret kata for real world self defense, I target my kicks to either the lower abdominal area or legs. Certainly there is a training and aesthetic benefit when performing head level kicks - and certainly there are those who can successfully use these kicks in real world situations. But for most people, I think, it would be extremely dangerous attempting to kicking someone in the head - unless they've lowered the target first via some other technique.
Take today for example: it's a wet and rainy fall day - wet leaves abound and the asphalt in the parking lot is slippery as well. If I were to be accosted while walking to my car - even if the opportunity presented itself - would it be wise to attempt a head kick as an initial strike? I think the answer is obvious - no. There are too many variables working against me. Another reason to avoid high kicks - clothing. In the dojo your gi pants are loose fit allowing greater movement, but on the street wearing your stylish tight jeans is another story. Restrictive clothing obviously restricts movement. So unless your an expert fighter when flat on your back please don't try head kicks in the tight jeans you are wearing. A third reason head kicks aren't ideal - time of day and the weather's effect on the body. When I arrive at work around 6:45 AM my body isn't nearly as flexible as it is by late afternoon. Factor in a cold winter day and I'm at an even greater disadvantage for applying techniques requiring flexibility. While this may not apply to the same degree to a twenty-something karateka, I believe it still a a factor of some degree.
Now back to kata. I think it's safe to say all kicks found in the Shotokan kata syllabus are part of a combination of techniques meant to immobilize your opponent offering you the opportunity to escape. A kick to the knee or shin, as part of flurry of techniques, may be all you need to temporarily injure your opponent enough to run and seek help and safety. A kick to the groin or lower abdomen will have the same effect - it's hard to chase someone when you're doubled over in pain. Lower kicks also are safer for the karateka as well, since they are less likely to be caught by your opponent. Additionally lower kicks can be more sneaky - you can supply sufficient power while "cheating" by not applying full leg motion as done when kicking to higher levels (look up the flick kick).
Remember, when performing and interpreting kata, keeping it real is the best way to understand its intent - and this especially applies to kicks I believe.
Well, that's all for now.
What Is My Style of Shotokan Karate?
Well, it's tough to explain, since it's continually evolving and changing.
I think though that through it's evolving it is becoming more cohesive in it's philosophy and execution. Nearly five years ago I began the journey of self training in Shotokan Style karate. It's basis is ISKF from when I trained in a dojo many years ago, and is very much influenced by men such as Kanazawa and Asai. Certainly my original Sensei, Marc Steiner, had a tremendous influence on my karate as well. In just over two years of training with him the foundation was laid to be able to successfully teach myself thirteen (and counting) kata over the original seven I learned in Glenside.
One thing is certain, it is my style - the subtleties of how I interpret movement and technique, each being explored and tested so each kata has a legitimate purpose for existing in my repertoire. That's the beauty of having one's own style, interpretation allows a kata to become the property of its owner, as long as the owner understands its intent. Please understand though, I'm not saying I know the "true intent" of the kata I've learned - it's truly a continual life long process of education and practice. What makes kata so special though is it's both universally practiced across the continents, yet completely personal as it becomes a part of its owner through practice and reflection.
Yet, personalizing a style creates a dilemma. As one interprets kata techniques subtle changes in the performance of the kata are introduced. What makes sense to me may not look right to another experienced Shotokan karateka. This is where explanation and sometimes education come into play. While I'm not saying I know more about a particular kata than someone who learned it through traditional means, I do think sometimes I may have a more robust understanding from the internet research I've done. For example, yesterday while reading a karate based blog, I learned of a judo site (http://judoinfo.com/) which has tons of examples of Judo techniques. While reviewing some of them I couldn't help but see the similarities to some movements in Shotokan kata. I know it's somewhat common knowledge among the more experienced karateka that many kata techniques can be interpreted as throws and take downs, but at the same time there are those who hold to a more rigid interpretation and still see a pivoting technique as a defense against an opponent attacking from another direction.
I think what it all boils down to is strive to self train regularly for that's where your own personality influences your karate - making it your own, making it work for your purposes.
That's all for now.
I think though that through it's evolving it is becoming more cohesive in it's philosophy and execution. Nearly five years ago I began the journey of self training in Shotokan Style karate. It's basis is ISKF from when I trained in a dojo many years ago, and is very much influenced by men such as Kanazawa and Asai. Certainly my original Sensei, Marc Steiner, had a tremendous influence on my karate as well. In just over two years of training with him the foundation was laid to be able to successfully teach myself thirteen (and counting) kata over the original seven I learned in Glenside.
One thing is certain, it is my style - the subtleties of how I interpret movement and technique, each being explored and tested so each kata has a legitimate purpose for existing in my repertoire. That's the beauty of having one's own style, interpretation allows a kata to become the property of its owner, as long as the owner understands its intent. Please understand though, I'm not saying I know the "true intent" of the kata I've learned - it's truly a continual life long process of education and practice. What makes kata so special though is it's both universally practiced across the continents, yet completely personal as it becomes a part of its owner through practice and reflection.
Yet, personalizing a style creates a dilemma. As one interprets kata techniques subtle changes in the performance of the kata are introduced. What makes sense to me may not look right to another experienced Shotokan karateka. This is where explanation and sometimes education come into play. While I'm not saying I know more about a particular kata than someone who learned it through traditional means, I do think sometimes I may have a more robust understanding from the internet research I've done. For example, yesterday while reading a karate based blog, I learned of a judo site (http://judoinfo.com/) which has tons of examples of Judo techniques. While reviewing some of them I couldn't help but see the similarities to some movements in Shotokan kata. I know it's somewhat common knowledge among the more experienced karateka that many kata techniques can be interpreted as throws and take downs, but at the same time there are those who hold to a more rigid interpretation and still see a pivoting technique as a defense against an opponent attacking from another direction.
I think what it all boils down to is strive to self train regularly for that's where your own personality influences your karate - making it your own, making it work for your purposes.
That's all for now.
Friday, September 19, 2014
Can You Teach Yourself Karate?
Yes.
Let me try explaining. I think you need a firm structured training base before you can ever teach yourself nearly anything: whether a musical instrument, dancing, a sport such as soccer or a martial art such as Shotokan karate. How long and intense should that time be? I think it's up to the individual. Some learn faster and more intuitively than others, so their time will be shorter. For me, I had two and a half years of formal training, including a few months at the Hatboro YMCA at the end of my formal training time. Others will learn the fundamentals sooner, others longer. The important thing is that they are learnt, and learnt well.
The key word above is fundamentals. They must be learned and ingrained since they are the foundation of what will be later self taught and trained. Also, they must not be neglected in self training. All training circuits need to include them every time at some level. My preference is with a heavy bag: standing or hanging. Working fundamental combinations - in and out of stances at speed is an excellent way of honing those skills. Still, it lacks behind having a knowledgeable training partner, but I can't have everything.
Self training is possible due to the immense amount of resources available: free and for purchase. YouTube alone has been my main source for learning thirteen new kata. Downloading and playing so that the movements can be slowed down, rewound and played in loops all make learning a new kata possible - assuming again that the fundamentals are grounded.
Finally a game plan is needed. What is known mixed with what is being self taught must be trained in a cyclical manner, so that no technique is too long abandoned. The similarities in kata must be recognized and new techniques must be fully understood as they are learned. All should combine over the course of one training session to teach an integrated lesson. Eventually all kata have been once again reviewed and improved: both in technique and more importantly - understanding.
Well, that's all for now.
Let me try explaining. I think you need a firm structured training base before you can ever teach yourself nearly anything: whether a musical instrument, dancing, a sport such as soccer or a martial art such as Shotokan karate. How long and intense should that time be? I think it's up to the individual. Some learn faster and more intuitively than others, so their time will be shorter. For me, I had two and a half years of formal training, including a few months at the Hatboro YMCA at the end of my formal training time. Others will learn the fundamentals sooner, others longer. The important thing is that they are learnt, and learnt well.
The key word above is fundamentals. They must be learned and ingrained since they are the foundation of what will be later self taught and trained. Also, they must not be neglected in self training. All training circuits need to include them every time at some level. My preference is with a heavy bag: standing or hanging. Working fundamental combinations - in and out of stances at speed is an excellent way of honing those skills. Still, it lacks behind having a knowledgeable training partner, but I can't have everything.
Self training is possible due to the immense amount of resources available: free and for purchase. YouTube alone has been my main source for learning thirteen new kata. Downloading and playing so that the movements can be slowed down, rewound and played in loops all make learning a new kata possible - assuming again that the fundamentals are grounded.
Finally a game plan is needed. What is known mixed with what is being self taught must be trained in a cyclical manner, so that no technique is too long abandoned. The similarities in kata must be recognized and new techniques must be fully understood as they are learned. All should combine over the course of one training session to teach an integrated lesson. Eventually all kata have been once again reviewed and improved: both in technique and more importantly - understanding.
Well, that's all for now.
Friday, September 12, 2014
What's Your Kata Footprint?
Huh?
Exactly. I'm not up on my Japanese Shotokan terminology, but what I'm describing is the path you have drawn by performing the kata - imagine near the ocean's edge on a clean sandy slightly damp beach.
There are so many ways to work through kata and one I truly enjoy is reducing my footprint while performing kata in confined spaces such as one-car garages, narrow driveways, gravel bike paths, small patches of woodland... there are so many choices. The necessity of quick shifting while reversing the feet - stepping back while simultaneously stepping forward is a great way of focusing technique. The body must be sufficiently relaxed to quick-shift the feet, yet maintain a firm path of travel through the entire kata. Pivoting is nearly always centered under the body's center of gravity. Attention must be paid to good body position and dynamics to maximize each technique to its full potential.
I firmly believe doing so is actually more realistic compared to potential movement in a real self defense situations. Body shifting is enhanced, maximizing useful space is stressed and realistic imagination is furthered by "seeing and feeling" combinations built into the kata.
Try it and envision striking, grabbing and controlling, throwing and taking down... as well as evasion, multi-angle attacking, quick redirecting within a four by four, or smaler, patch of ground... it's all there so do it.
Well, that's all for now.
Exactly. I'm not up on my Japanese Shotokan terminology, but what I'm describing is the path you have drawn by performing the kata - imagine near the ocean's edge on a clean sandy slightly damp beach.
There are so many ways to work through kata and one I truly enjoy is reducing my footprint while performing kata in confined spaces such as one-car garages, narrow driveways, gravel bike paths, small patches of woodland... there are so many choices. The necessity of quick shifting while reversing the feet - stepping back while simultaneously stepping forward is a great way of focusing technique. The body must be sufficiently relaxed to quick-shift the feet, yet maintain a firm path of travel through the entire kata. Pivoting is nearly always centered under the body's center of gravity. Attention must be paid to good body position and dynamics to maximize each technique to its full potential.
I firmly believe doing so is actually more realistic compared to potential movement in a real self defense situations. Body shifting is enhanced, maximizing useful space is stressed and realistic imagination is furthered by "seeing and feeling" combinations built into the kata.
Try it and envision striking, grabbing and controlling, throwing and taking down... as well as evasion, multi-angle attacking, quick redirecting within a four by four, or smaler, patch of ground... it's all there so do it.
Well, that's all for now.
Thursday, July 31, 2014
What Do Kata and Ballroom Dancing Have in Common?
I've enjoyed watching ballroom dancing for a few years now with the advent of shows such as "So You Think You Can Dance?" and "Dancing With The Stars". One thing I've learned is for a routine to be successful there has to be a lead partner and a compliant partner. The lead is in control: spinning, throwing and moving the partner in synchronization to the music. The compliant partner accepts the lead's direction and moves in harmony with the lead. Together they perform a moving "work of art", which can touch all emotions depending on the music and choreography.
How does this apply to kata? I think the answer is in thinking of yourself as the lead when practicing kata. You are in control. You are moving your "partner" at will. You are "choreographing" your "dance". Of course there's one slight problem: your partner isn't compliant - at least not initially. That's where decisive, aggressive action comes into play. By "taking the lead", the initiative, you are controlling the situation which will either lead to a compliant partner ("I give up!"), or at least a temporarily disabled partner, allowing you to "dance away" to safety.
I had thought about naming this post "What Do Kata and the Waltz have in Common?" since the waltz's basic step is a 1-2-3, 1-2-3.... It's a relatively simple dance for learning the basics, but can be extraordinarily complex when performed by expert ballroom dancers. In self defense though simpler is almost always the best course of action to take. Gross motor skills are effective and easier to learn, so keep this in mind when interpreting kata techniques and keep sequences short thinking combinations of 1-2-3 (evaluate on-the-fly) 1-2-3. Remember all you need to do is enough to give yourself the opportunity to escape.
Well that's all for now.
How does this apply to kata? I think the answer is in thinking of yourself as the lead when practicing kata. You are in control. You are moving your "partner" at will. You are "choreographing" your "dance". Of course there's one slight problem: your partner isn't compliant - at least not initially. That's where decisive, aggressive action comes into play. By "taking the lead", the initiative, you are controlling the situation which will either lead to a compliant partner ("I give up!"), or at least a temporarily disabled partner, allowing you to "dance away" to safety.
I had thought about naming this post "What Do Kata and the Waltz have in Common?" since the waltz's basic step is a 1-2-3, 1-2-3.... It's a relatively simple dance for learning the basics, but can be extraordinarily complex when performed by expert ballroom dancers. In self defense though simpler is almost always the best course of action to take. Gross motor skills are effective and easier to learn, so keep this in mind when interpreting kata techniques and keep sequences short thinking combinations of 1-2-3 (evaluate on-the-fly) 1-2-3. Remember all you need to do is enough to give yourself the opportunity to escape.
Well that's all for now.
Saturday, July 12, 2014
Single Track Training for Kihon in Shotokan Karate
So far, it's been a great season for outdoor training in Shotokan-style karate.
Currently I have five outdoor locations where I practice my flavor of Shotokan karate. My current favorite though is the canal park about a mile down the road from where I live. I walk and run the single track trails; I also use them for warming up with dynamic stretches and movements, as well as fundamental kihon practice. It's great training, in my opinion, dealing with the nuances of the trail's terrain: grass covered, hard pack dirt, light gravel, mud, leaves and rocks - it's all part of the mix. Strong attacks into forward stances must be tempered by allowing immediate shifting and sliding while maintaining balance and forceful movement.
Much is learned when practicing with a variety of surfaces and terrain: better shorten your stances if the ground is slippery from mud, rain or gravel. Learn which stances are best when facing up or down hill, when the ground is deeply deformed or when you are moving from one surface type to another. Learn how to use the terrain to your advantage: position yourself on the high ground, on the sure-footed surfaces, with the sun at your back, with an escape route available.
Another spot I've recently discovered is along the gravel trail between the Betzwood picnic area of Valley Forge National Park and Pawlings Road. This spot a flat dirt packed piece of ground under an ancient deceased tree. Today I worked Tekki's Shodan, Nidan and Sandan keeping in mind the surrounding plants, branches, rocks and other obstacles on the ground. It's a great spot - kind of like a magical "dojo in the woods". A 20x20 foot piece of real estate made for karate training: level with a forgiving surface.
Possibly the best part of the canal park is the small glade of mature hardwood trees spread about a quarter of an acre: perfect for kata training - shaded level ground. On another note, I've decided to dedicate the rest of July to Bassai Sho and Hangetsu, with other kata interspersed of course. Grass is such a great surface for exercise: it's typically a bit forgiving if the ground isn't too hard packed. It offers just enough slipperiness in the right circumstances to make it challenging and also challenges based on it's height and thickness.
So I encourage you to get out and train your martial art outdoors. It's healthy and fun!
Well, that's all for now.
Currently I have five outdoor locations where I practice my flavor of Shotokan karate. My current favorite though is the canal park about a mile down the road from where I live. I walk and run the single track trails; I also use them for warming up with dynamic stretches and movements, as well as fundamental kihon practice. It's great training, in my opinion, dealing with the nuances of the trail's terrain: grass covered, hard pack dirt, light gravel, mud, leaves and rocks - it's all part of the mix. Strong attacks into forward stances must be tempered by allowing immediate shifting and sliding while maintaining balance and forceful movement.
Much is learned when practicing with a variety of surfaces and terrain: better shorten your stances if the ground is slippery from mud, rain or gravel. Learn which stances are best when facing up or down hill, when the ground is deeply deformed or when you are moving from one surface type to another. Learn how to use the terrain to your advantage: position yourself on the high ground, on the sure-footed surfaces, with the sun at your back, with an escape route available.
Another spot I've recently discovered is along the gravel trail between the Betzwood picnic area of Valley Forge National Park and Pawlings Road. This spot a flat dirt packed piece of ground under an ancient deceased tree. Today I worked Tekki's Shodan, Nidan and Sandan keeping in mind the surrounding plants, branches, rocks and other obstacles on the ground. It's a great spot - kind of like a magical "dojo in the woods". A 20x20 foot piece of real estate made for karate training: level with a forgiving surface.
Possibly the best part of the canal park is the small glade of mature hardwood trees spread about a quarter of an acre: perfect for kata training - shaded level ground. On another note, I've decided to dedicate the rest of July to Bassai Sho and Hangetsu, with other kata interspersed of course. Grass is such a great surface for exercise: it's typically a bit forgiving if the ground isn't too hard packed. It offers just enough slipperiness in the right circumstances to make it challenging and also challenges based on it's height and thickness.
So I encourage you to get out and train your martial art outdoors. It's healthy and fun!
Well, that's all for now.
Monday, April 28, 2014
What To Do With The Thumbs?
Well, I can tell you emphatically I'm too old to suck them... :-)
Instead, from a karate perspective, how are the thumbs engaged during the process of applying open hand techniques?
I practice opened handed techniques as part of my self defense focused training. In each case I keep my thumbs tucked in for safety's sake. Often though I see pictures or watch slow motion educational bunkai videos on Youtube which show the thumbs sticking straight out while applying these types of techniques.
Personally I believe having the thumb sticking out simply increases the chances of injury to it during application. It's not difficult at all to have the thumbs get briefly stuck in loose clothing, or limbs while moving through the technique in a full throttle situation.
Instead I tuck my thumbs in: whether it's a knife hand, palm heel, spear hand or finger strike, the thumbs are tucked in. This further engages the muscles of the hands which make them stronger while making contact, but more importantly, protects them from serious injury. Keep in mind the hand loses much of its functionality with the thumb injured, so protecting it is common sense and part of self preservation.
Well, that's all for now...
Instead, from a karate perspective, how are the thumbs engaged during the process of applying open hand techniques?
I practice opened handed techniques as part of my self defense focused training. In each case I keep my thumbs tucked in for safety's sake. Often though I see pictures or watch slow motion educational bunkai videos on Youtube which show the thumbs sticking straight out while applying these types of techniques.
Personally I believe having the thumb sticking out simply increases the chances of injury to it during application. It's not difficult at all to have the thumbs get briefly stuck in loose clothing, or limbs while moving through the technique in a full throttle situation.
Instead I tuck my thumbs in: whether it's a knife hand, palm heel, spear hand or finger strike, the thumbs are tucked in. This further engages the muscles of the hands which make them stronger while making contact, but more importantly, protects them from serious injury. Keep in mind the hand loses much of its functionality with the thumb injured, so protecting it is common sense and part of self preservation.
Well, that's all for now...
Saturday, April 19, 2014
Tried A Couple Different Things
Thank God spring has arrived in the Philadelphia region of Pennsylvania!
I have four or so outdoor areas within a ten minute drive where I practice my outdoor karate, primarily through kata. A couple of newer spots have nice single track trails, which make excellent trail running training. Another couple spots have a nice ten foot wide gravel and dirt trail which I've used for practicing kata and kihon training. I spend less of my training time on kihon, well specifically air kihon. Still I certainly believe it has its place. My typical kihon training though, is against one of two heavy bags I own ninety percent of the time.
Anyway, I decided the trails were perfect places to practice my attack oriented kihon training. By that I mean I tend to stride and slide into a technique, meaning I'll land in such a way that my foot, while solidly connected to the ground is capable of moving as my momentum may take it. I don't want to fight against the ground, I want it to fight with me as my partner.
Last Thursday I practiced twenty repetitions of the basic kihon taught to new students along the wide gravel trail. One technique per stride. In my mind though I envision these movements as attacks. Each one a decisive strike to end the threat. My stride length is seventy-five percent of a stride on a solid, safe surface like a clean dojo floor. Also, the back knee is always kept slightly bent for cushioning and stability. Friday (yesterday) I worked twenty reps each side of my front-snap, side-snap and roundhouse-snap kicks down the single track trail along the Schuylkill River. Great training with the uneven ground providing extra incentive to perform the kicks correctly!
Both exercises proved very fruitful I thought. Transitions between techniques was loose and relaxed, with focus on good balance, positioning and recovery. I think I'll be adding these as regular parts of my outdoor training, we'll see how it goes...
Well that's all for now...
I have four or so outdoor areas within a ten minute drive where I practice my outdoor karate, primarily through kata. A couple of newer spots have nice single track trails, which make excellent trail running training. Another couple spots have a nice ten foot wide gravel and dirt trail which I've used for practicing kata and kihon training. I spend less of my training time on kihon, well specifically air kihon. Still I certainly believe it has its place. My typical kihon training though, is against one of two heavy bags I own ninety percent of the time.
Anyway, I decided the trails were perfect places to practice my attack oriented kihon training. By that I mean I tend to stride and slide into a technique, meaning I'll land in such a way that my foot, while solidly connected to the ground is capable of moving as my momentum may take it. I don't want to fight against the ground, I want it to fight with me as my partner.
Last Thursday I practiced twenty repetitions of the basic kihon taught to new students along the wide gravel trail. One technique per stride. In my mind though I envision these movements as attacks. Each one a decisive strike to end the threat. My stride length is seventy-five percent of a stride on a solid, safe surface like a clean dojo floor. Also, the back knee is always kept slightly bent for cushioning and stability. Friday (yesterday) I worked twenty reps each side of my front-snap, side-snap and roundhouse-snap kicks down the single track trail along the Schuylkill River. Great training with the uneven ground providing extra incentive to perform the kicks correctly!
Both exercises proved very fruitful I thought. Transitions between techniques was loose and relaxed, with focus on good balance, positioning and recovery. I think I'll be adding these as regular parts of my outdoor training, we'll see how it goes...
Well that's all for now...
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Kicking The Bucket
No, not that "kicking the bucket"...don't be so morbid!
I tried something I've been meaning to test for the last couple of years. I took an old bucket and a bungie cord down to the tennis courts last night and attached the cord and bucket to the fence in one of the corners creating a triangle with the bucket hanging freely. What I wanted was a way of working kicks with something that provided movement and feed back, but without weight like a heavy bag. The bungie cord stretched about five feet so the bucket would slide considerably depending on the area struck and the type of kick. I found it a great way to work on footwork, timing and distance - focusing solely on kicking and body shifting.
By using the fence I was able to adjust the height as well: for my front snap, side snap and roundhouse kicks I kept the bucket at my lower abdominal level. For working my side thrust kick I raised it to my chest level. Next time I'll place it knee level for practicing more self defense style kicks.
Another side benefit of using an empty bucket (all plastic) is it helps build reaction timing as well. When struck directly the bucket swings around 360 degrees, which means it will strike you back when stepping in after the kick. It's a great reminder to keep your hands up ready to block or deflect an incoming attack!
Well, that's all for now...
I tried something I've been meaning to test for the last couple of years. I took an old bucket and a bungie cord down to the tennis courts last night and attached the cord and bucket to the fence in one of the corners creating a triangle with the bucket hanging freely. What I wanted was a way of working kicks with something that provided movement and feed back, but without weight like a heavy bag. The bungie cord stretched about five feet so the bucket would slide considerably depending on the area struck and the type of kick. I found it a great way to work on footwork, timing and distance - focusing solely on kicking and body shifting.
By using the fence I was able to adjust the height as well: for my front snap, side snap and roundhouse kicks I kept the bucket at my lower abdominal level. For working my side thrust kick I raised it to my chest level. Next time I'll place it knee level for practicing more self defense style kicks.
Another side benefit of using an empty bucket (all plastic) is it helps build reaction timing as well. When struck directly the bucket swings around 360 degrees, which means it will strike you back when stepping in after the kick. It's a great reminder to keep your hands up ready to block or deflect an incoming attack!
Well, that's all for now...
Saturday, March 22, 2014
All You Need Is?
Well, love of course, but in this case, I'm writing about what largely defines how you perform your kata.
The answer is "Imagination". Not fanciful mental structuring of techniques which subdues your enemy and earns you style points, but a realistic interpretation of each techniques' intent: it's attack and defense strengths and weaknesses. For me each kata is a series of interchangeable techniques which can be combined in a myriad of ways. The original performance of the entire kata should always follow the ark of training under your predominant style, but I firmly believe each person must stamp each kata learned with his or her own personal interpretation, which is what solidifies their understanding of its intent in real world situations.
Like stated in many sports, vivid intentioned imagination of successful and interpretive (in the case of artistic sports) techniques, is what separates the champions from everyone else. But again, the techniques in karate and other martial endeavors, must have a legitimate, feasible purpose which quickly ends a self defense situation. Good kata is when these types of techniques are applied in a powerful and well balanced manner displaying the kata's intent in an artistic way.
For me, distance is the first thing I think of when analyzing a technique. Does it make more sense when applied in close, mid distance, or longer distance? What is each limbs purpose? Work through different potential applications mentally and arrive at two or three that seem reasonable for applying under stressful situations. Keep in mind each limb is most certainly actively engaged in completing a successful application of attack. Pushing, pulling; twisting, dropping; tripping, throwing; striking, kicking - all are alternatives when working out the applications of the kata. Some seem obvious, a punch is a punch, isn't it? Think! Consider! And learn so much more...
Well, that's all for now...
The answer is "Imagination". Not fanciful mental structuring of techniques which subdues your enemy and earns you style points, but a realistic interpretation of each techniques' intent: it's attack and defense strengths and weaknesses. For me each kata is a series of interchangeable techniques which can be combined in a myriad of ways. The original performance of the entire kata should always follow the ark of training under your predominant style, but I firmly believe each person must stamp each kata learned with his or her own personal interpretation, which is what solidifies their understanding of its intent in real world situations.
Like stated in many sports, vivid intentioned imagination of successful and interpretive (in the case of artistic sports) techniques, is what separates the champions from everyone else. But again, the techniques in karate and other martial endeavors, must have a legitimate, feasible purpose which quickly ends a self defense situation. Good kata is when these types of techniques are applied in a powerful and well balanced manner displaying the kata's intent in an artistic way.
For me, distance is the first thing I think of when analyzing a technique. Does it make more sense when applied in close, mid distance, or longer distance? What is each limbs purpose? Work through different potential applications mentally and arrive at two or three that seem reasonable for applying under stressful situations. Keep in mind each limb is most certainly actively engaged in completing a successful application of attack. Pushing, pulling; twisting, dropping; tripping, throwing; striking, kicking - all are alternatives when working out the applications of the kata. Some seem obvious, a punch is a punch, isn't it? Think! Consider! And learn so much more...
Well, that's all for now...
Friday, March 21, 2014
Heavy Bag Training Options
Along with kata training, heavy bag work is my other main training method for karate. I have two heavy bags: a hanging bag which can be filled with water and a standing heavy bag which can be height adjusted and has a "spring like" action.
Currently I use the hanging heavy bag for timing and distance work, since I don't fill it with water during cold weather training - it hangs outside from a balcony over the driveway. In warmer weather I'll partially fill it so it has some weight, but will still move freely when struck - this better allows me to approximate striking a living, moving target. The challenge when striking the empty bag is if it is struck too hard it swings wildly making follow up strikes impossible. My goal then is making light contact strikes which move the bag enough where I have to adjust my angle and/or distance for follow up strikes. This works particularly well with hand and elbow techniques, but less so with kicking techniques, since I don't like pulling my kicks too much, but it's doable. Typically I'll work a few different set of combinations each time I use the bag - boxing style combos, traditional karate combos and self-defense combos.
- Boxing combos typically are 1-2, 1-2-3 or 1-2-3-4 techniques starting from either hand using boxing style stances from both sides mixing different types of punches.
- Traditional karate combos are what is often practiced in the dojo as kihon, but moving into the bag rather than stepping back - rising forearm strike followed by a reverse punch for example.
- Self Defense combos are practiced with either hands at sides or up in a defensive "fence" position attacking more with open handed techniques. I may be facing the bag, half facing it, or with it at my back. The assumption is the attack is imminent so I must preempt the opponent's attack.
My heavy standing bag is what I use for hard striking and kicking. The model I have has a flexible rubber section built into the stand so it moves when struck, which helps build reflexes, timing and to a degree distance. I don't use heavy bag gloves, instead I use leather work gloves that you would buy at a home improvement store. I believe these give me a more realistic feel, while still protecting my hands from abrasions. My goal is a one to two inch penetration for my strikes - enough to know I've made solid and correct contact without moving the bag too much allowing for follow up techniques. If I'm just working my traditional Shotokan punches from a set stance then I'll shoot for an up to four inch penetration - I don't want to feel like I'm pushing the bag so I don't try to punch through it.
Kicking either bag is done wearing different types of foot gear: sneakers of different types, light style hiking shoes, sandals (Tevas) and even old leather loafers. The goal is to know how different foot gear affects pivoting and shock absorption when making contact.
Well, that's all for now...
Friday, March 14, 2014
One Beer Karate
Over the last year or so my philosophy pertaining to karate is to have a "one beer" mind. This is my personal Zen state, if that makes sense.
Occasionally when training in the garage I'll open a good craft beer and sip it through my hour or so work out. The slight alcohol induced relaxed feeling is what I'm referring to - it's a state of gentle relaxation with a slightly elevated level of self awareness. Certainly not enough to effect my performance, but it is felt and often causes me to pause and ponder a kata sequence for its logical real world application(s).
Another effect an occasional, casual consumption of a quality beer has during exercise (again not slamming it down, but a sip or two periodically over the course of an hour or so) is to relax the body. This is similar to the effects of performing techniques to exhaustion where the muscles reach such a relaxed state the technique becomes almost effortless. While I'm not advocating switching from repetition of techniques to drinking beer to improve one's karate, I am saying it has its place in my ongoing pursuit of learning Shotokan karate as I understand it.
Hope this makes sense. That's all for now...
Occasionally when training in the garage I'll open a good craft beer and sip it through my hour or so work out. The slight alcohol induced relaxed feeling is what I'm referring to - it's a state of gentle relaxation with a slightly elevated level of self awareness. Certainly not enough to effect my performance, but it is felt and often causes me to pause and ponder a kata sequence for its logical real world application(s).
Another effect an occasional, casual consumption of a quality beer has during exercise (again not slamming it down, but a sip or two periodically over the course of an hour or so) is to relax the body. This is similar to the effects of performing techniques to exhaustion where the muscles reach such a relaxed state the technique becomes almost effortless. While I'm not advocating switching from repetition of techniques to drinking beer to improve one's karate, I am saying it has its place in my ongoing pursuit of learning Shotokan karate as I understand it.
Hope this makes sense. That's all for now...
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Keep Your Distance!
Or should you?
There are many examples of bunkai for Shotokan kata on the web showing defensive then attacking moves from a traditional Shotokan distance. The question though is this really the optimal distance for correct kata "real world" application?
Since I only self train at this time I do a fair amount of online research relating to karate and other martial arts. One person who has had a tremendous influence on my interpretation of kata application is Iain Abernethy, who teaches that most kata applications can be thought of as being applied in a close-in situation. This opens up interpreting the "blocks" and pivots and being throwing or other take-down techniques. For me, as someone who stopped traditional training in the early 1980's after just 2 1/2 years, it's made understanding kata so much more enjoyable and relevant.
Considering that self defense situations which result in a physical altercation typically are within striking distance it makes sense to close the gap quickly and decisively with strikes, followed by throwing/disabling techniques then retreating. Obviously to throw/trip/break you need to be close to your opponent, so when interpreting kata techniques always keep these options and your distance in mind.
Well, that's all for now...
There are many examples of bunkai for Shotokan kata on the web showing defensive then attacking moves from a traditional Shotokan distance. The question though is this really the optimal distance for correct kata "real world" application?
Since I only self train at this time I do a fair amount of online research relating to karate and other martial arts. One person who has had a tremendous influence on my interpretation of kata application is Iain Abernethy, who teaches that most kata applications can be thought of as being applied in a close-in situation. This opens up interpreting the "blocks" and pivots and being throwing or other take-down techniques. For me, as someone who stopped traditional training in the early 1980's after just 2 1/2 years, it's made understanding kata so much more enjoyable and relevant.
Considering that self defense situations which result in a physical altercation typically are within striking distance it makes sense to close the gap quickly and decisively with strikes, followed by throwing/disabling techniques then retreating. Obviously to throw/trip/break you need to be close to your opponent, so when interpreting kata techniques always keep these options and your distance in mind.
Well, that's all for now...
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
To Kiai or Not to Kiai?
Ninjas don't kiai, so why should Shotokan practitioners?
Since the majority of my training is outdoors in local parks I don't kiai when practicing my kata. At the appropriate points in the kata I will internalize the kiai sometimes, or "grunt" kiai other times, but I tend to focus more on imagining the technique being effective, which means they are performed with sufficient force emanating from the core that a kiai isn't necessary (in my opinion).
I do believe though that a kiai/shout/yell/scream has it's place in a self defense situation. Anything which increases the "attack and self preservation" mode is certainly beneficial. It also has the added advantage of alerting those nearby that something bad is happening which hopefully will cause them to assist, or at least call the police.
For kata though is a kiai necessary? I think the answer really is the underlying intent of the kiai - to yell just for the sake of yelling like you see in some "extreme karate" kata is nonsense in my opinion. A kiai incorporated into a finishing technique makes perfect sense though. Since I view kata a a series of smaller interrelated techniques I will sometimes use an internal kiai when breaking the kata down into smaller sections as well, finding it helps punctuate the ending technique. I also "grunt kiai" sometimes working heavy bag combos - 1,2 - kiai/3!
A suggestion: practice your kata with the kiai added at different points. Does it reinforce that section of the kata as being an integrated series of techniques ending in a finishing blow? Don't overdo it though - you don't want to become one of those "extreme karate" practitioners!
Well, that's all for now...
Since the majority of my training is outdoors in local parks I don't kiai when practicing my kata. At the appropriate points in the kata I will internalize the kiai sometimes, or "grunt" kiai other times, but I tend to focus more on imagining the technique being effective, which means they are performed with sufficient force emanating from the core that a kiai isn't necessary (in my opinion).
I do believe though that a kiai/shout/yell/scream has it's place in a self defense situation. Anything which increases the "attack and self preservation" mode is certainly beneficial. It also has the added advantage of alerting those nearby that something bad is happening which hopefully will cause them to assist, or at least call the police.
For kata though is a kiai necessary? I think the answer really is the underlying intent of the kiai - to yell just for the sake of yelling like you see in some "extreme karate" kata is nonsense in my opinion. A kiai incorporated into a finishing technique makes perfect sense though. Since I view kata a a series of smaller interrelated techniques I will sometimes use an internal kiai when breaking the kata down into smaller sections as well, finding it helps punctuate the ending technique. I also "grunt kiai" sometimes working heavy bag combos - 1,2 - kiai/3!
A suggestion: practice your kata with the kiai added at different points. Does it reinforce that section of the kata as being an integrated series of techniques ending in a finishing blow? Don't overdo it though - you don't want to become one of those "extreme karate" practitioners!
Well, that's all for now...
Monday, January 20, 2014
Circuit Training with Karate
I was just reading an article by one of my favorite karate bloggers, Jesse Encamp, regarding weight training and karate.
http://www.karatebyjesse.com/karate-strength-training-and-conditioning/
I'm no expert, so I recommend you read his blog for tips and further research the proper methods to train with weights to improve your karate. What I will do though is share what I've been doing the last couple of years. I guess it's like circuit training in some ways: depending on the the day I'll work a particular kata and mix in some body weight training and light dumbbell exercises which work the major muscle groups. At the end I'll do some bag work as well.
Typical indoor winter training:
10 minutes of dynamic warm-ups
Weight training with dumbbells - right now I'm focusing on 50 reps using two 20lb. dumbbells doing a full squat into bicep curls, into overhead press. Weights are lowered slowly once brought back to the shoulders from the press to work the triceps somewhat.
Planks ( I do different plank poses for each circuit, or switch the poses x number of seconds during one circuit - typically 40 - 60 seconds total)
Kata training - right now I'm working a kata 15 reps one night, then 15 the opposite side the next)
Bag work for 10 -15 minutes working ideas from the current kata, plus focusing on one or two kicks
Planks are done after each five repetitions of kata, so a total of three times for 40 - 60 seconds each.
Outdoor training:
This past year, in warmer weather training outdoors at a local park, I would mix in planks and push-ups between my kata sets - maybe two kata, then 10 push-ups, or 5 kata then 30 second plank. I also added a 10 minute run at the end on some days. Once home (about 5 - 10 minutes from the park) I'd finish with some bag work and some days add some dumbbell exercises.
One thing I don't do is static stretching - either before or after exercising. I'm sure I'd be more flexible if I did, since I used to when I was younger, but it's just not "my cup of tea" at this point.
This year one of my goals is to more systematically incorporate weight training as part of my karate training, as opposed to just doing periodically.
That's all for now!
http://www.karatebyjesse.com/karate-strength-training-and-conditioning/
I'm no expert, so I recommend you read his blog for tips and further research the proper methods to train with weights to improve your karate. What I will do though is share what I've been doing the last couple of years. I guess it's like circuit training in some ways: depending on the the day I'll work a particular kata and mix in some body weight training and light dumbbell exercises which work the major muscle groups. At the end I'll do some bag work as well.
Typical indoor winter training:
10 minutes of dynamic warm-ups
Weight training with dumbbells - right now I'm focusing on 50 reps using two 20lb. dumbbells doing a full squat into bicep curls, into overhead press. Weights are lowered slowly once brought back to the shoulders from the press to work the triceps somewhat.
Planks ( I do different plank poses for each circuit, or switch the poses x number of seconds during one circuit - typically 40 - 60 seconds total)
Kata training - right now I'm working a kata 15 reps one night, then 15 the opposite side the next)
Bag work for 10 -15 minutes working ideas from the current kata, plus focusing on one or two kicks
Planks are done after each five repetitions of kata, so a total of three times for 40 - 60 seconds each.
Outdoor training:
This past year, in warmer weather training outdoors at a local park, I would mix in planks and push-ups between my kata sets - maybe two kata, then 10 push-ups, or 5 kata then 30 second plank. I also added a 10 minute run at the end on some days. Once home (about 5 - 10 minutes from the park) I'd finish with some bag work and some days add some dumbbell exercises.
One thing I don't do is static stretching - either before or after exercising. I'm sure I'd be more flexible if I did, since I used to when I was younger, but it's just not "my cup of tea" at this point.
This year one of my goals is to more systematically incorporate weight training as part of my karate training, as opposed to just doing periodically.
That's all for now!
Sunday, January 12, 2014
Winter Garage Training
Three seasons of the year my primary training is done outdoors emphasizing kata practice, coupled with some heavy bag training once I get home and on weekends. Winter though my garage becomes my primary "dojo".
This winter I'm trying something different. Instead of doing kata in sections which fit into the limited space provided, I'm going through the kata completely, but switch stepping where necessary to limit the space covered. I'm finding it an excellent method of working on balance and shifting, since I often employ this method when working on my heavy bags. To clarify, my definition of switch-stepping is stepping forward with one leg, then immediately stepping back with the opposite leg as the forward stepping foot lands.
For now I'm doing ten repetitions one night, then ten on the mirrored side the next. One of my new year goals is to work in more weight training, so I've cut back a bit on winter kata repetitions, while increasing weight and heavy bag training.
Well, that's all for now.
This winter I'm trying something different. Instead of doing kata in sections which fit into the limited space provided, I'm going through the kata completely, but switch stepping where necessary to limit the space covered. I'm finding it an excellent method of working on balance and shifting, since I often employ this method when working on my heavy bags. To clarify, my definition of switch-stepping is stepping forward with one leg, then immediately stepping back with the opposite leg as the forward stepping foot lands.
For now I'm doing ten repetitions one night, then ten on the mirrored side the next. One of my new year goals is to work in more weight training, so I've cut back a bit on winter kata repetitions, while increasing weight and heavy bag training.
Well, that's all for now.
Mirror Mirror...
...on the wall. Well, unfortunately I don't have a full size wall mirror like you'll find in a good dojo - wish I did though, since they are very helpful in self correcting technique.
In this case though, I'm more interested in the "mirroring" of practicing kata in an opposite side manner, which mirrors the original. I don't do much kihon, where both sides of techniques are equally worked. Instead, I learn kata first in its originally taught sequence, then after enough familiarity with it, I'll learn it in its mirrored image. Typically then, I work each kata equally in both directions from that point forward. For example, currently I'm going through the Tekki katas 25 repetitions on one day, followed by 25 mirrored repetitions the next day (mid December 2013).
In terms of kihon, I may work through a kata bit by bit, breaking it down into small chunks of related sequences, first in one direction, then the opposite: typically 10 repetitions per sequence. Further kihon practice is typically practiced against a heavy bag - alternating sides for a total of 20 reps per side. Other types of kihon training may be reviewing the most fundamental Shotokan techniques, boxing style techniques, standing control and take-down techniques or kata sequence techniques, but mixing techniques from different parts of the kata, or even different katas as I see them fitting together.
Well, that's all for now.
In this case though, I'm more interested in the "mirroring" of practicing kata in an opposite side manner, which mirrors the original. I don't do much kihon, where both sides of techniques are equally worked. Instead, I learn kata first in its originally taught sequence, then after enough familiarity with it, I'll learn it in its mirrored image. Typically then, I work each kata equally in both directions from that point forward. For example, currently I'm going through the Tekki katas 25 repetitions on one day, followed by 25 mirrored repetitions the next day (mid December 2013).
In terms of kihon, I may work through a kata bit by bit, breaking it down into small chunks of related sequences, first in one direction, then the opposite: typically 10 repetitions per sequence. Further kihon practice is typically practiced against a heavy bag - alternating sides for a total of 20 reps per side. Other types of kihon training may be reviewing the most fundamental Shotokan techniques, boxing style techniques, standing control and take-down techniques or kata sequence techniques, but mixing techniques from different parts of the kata, or even different katas as I see them fitting together.
Well, that's all for now.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)