Technique of the Week (January 21st, 2007)
From Sensei
Joe Knight
Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu Karate Club, Centreville VA.
--------------------------------------------------------------
On the Deck- Proven methods to ensure a great workout!
Prior
to class-
-Always show respect/courtesy/enthusiasm to your instructor and
fellow deshi when on the deck.
-Always arrive early to class to stretch/loosen up.
Seek-out and work with a partner
Bow-in/Warm-ups-
-Free the mind of all distractions during the bow-in/meditation
-Spring to your feet with Zanshin (a ready mind) to begin warm-ups-
-Utilize warm-ups to establish Gan, breathing, foundation, range
of
motion, and balance.
Technique
repetition/across the deck-
-Concentrate on your target, and apply any corrections being given
by
the instructor.
-Do not maintain constant tightness/tension when executing techniques
(particularly the low stances). Allow the technique to "burn"
or "sink" in.
-Utilize deep/rhythmic breathing methods (from hara) to increase
endurance.
Kata Practice-
-All earlier class work has prepared you physically and mentally
to
begin kata practice
-Every kata has a particular signature and cadence, but only thru
dedicated practice can one transform a kata into their own unique
interpretation-calibrated and honed to the performer's strength
and
personality
-Imaginary opponents must always be utilized during kata practice.
-Power and quickness in kata does not mean "rush" the
cadence or
count. Embrace the pause between moves-without which there can be
no
explosion of power.
-Feel how the hip, breathing, cork-screws, and change in height
contribute to a powerful kata.
And finally,
what ever it is you are doing on the deck in class this
moment...
-Maintain spirit/confidence by not looking down or around or at
each
other
-Acknowledge any correction from the instructor with spirit and
courtesy.
-Remember that a correction for one deshi applies to all deshi.
-Finish Strong!
Domo Arigato
Hanshi
Sensei Joe Knight
Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu Karate Club, Centreville VA.