Technique of the Week (September 6th, 2009)

From Mr. Joe Motro ShoDan

Cocoa Beach Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu Karate Dojo, Cocoa Beach, Florida
--------------------------------------------------------------

Hit the Target

Often, when watching kata performed in class or during a test, I see strikes and blocks that don't quite go where they should. It doesn't matter how hard or fast a strike is if it misses the target. If a punch to the nose glances off of the cheek, your opponent will still be in the fight. If a kick to the groin misses, your opponent may become enraged and even harder to deal with.

How do we learn to hit the target? "The Essence of Okinawan Karate-do" by Shoshin Nagamine has a drawing showing the vital parts of the body. Take a kata and perform it in slow motion. Visualize the target you are trying to hit. With your blocks, be mindful of the vital areas you are protecting. Make the strikes and blocks perfect. As you increase speed and power, make sure that you don't lose accuracy.

Sensei Chaskelson and I performed a demonstration at a recent test to illustrate the importance of physical conditioning, accuracy and trust. I was never so mindful of the importance of "hitting the target". Please see the video. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DOVtcBhZ6jk

Arigato,
Joe Motro
ShoDan