February 24th 2013

From Kyoshi Mackay

Ueshiro Midtown Karate Dojo

Onegai shimasu, Deshi of Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu USA,

One of the many important corrections Hanshi made during the recent Florida weekend of training was to make sure the knee comes straight to the chest during all leg techniques. Whether performing kicks in Fukyugata ni, knee smashes in Pinan yon-dan, foot strikes in Nihanchi sho, or universal blocks in Rohai, the knee chambers between the hands and arms, not out to one side. This ensures the leg follows the most direct path to the target, incorporates optimal alignment, and protects the solar plexus and groin before and after the technique. Common mistake is bringing the knee to the outside of the arms, which weakens the technique and may cause injury. See video clip from Florida beach workout for correct form as demonstrated by Kyoshi Kaplan vs. incorrect form demonstrated by the author. Domo arigato gozaimasu, Hanshi, for this and all your high-level corrections over the memorable three days of Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu training.

- Kyoshi Mackay

Ueshiro Midtown Karate Dojo