October 30th , 2016

This week's thought is from Sensei Rob Neff, Yon-Dan  
Midtown Ueshiro Dojo

The Count – Cadence, Spirit & Timing

Onegai shimasu Hanshi, Kyoshi, Sensei & fellow Deshi, 

During our recent Black Belt workout Hanshi went to great lengths to ensure that the count was given correctly during basics.  He was extremely generous in his corrections to make sure we got it right.  When leading the count during basics across the deck in class use the following guidelines:? 

•       Follow the sequence as outlined in the 50th Anniversary Commemorative Journal, “The Traditional USRKUSA Workout” section as stated on pages 24 and 25.   ?
 
•       Announce each basic in Japanese (preferably) or English if needed. Use your spirit to motivate the group.  Prior to the count you may say, "Strike the pose."   

•       Most importantly, pause to let the class gather themselves and prepare for "battle," then say “Ichi” loudly in a similar manner to a short loud Kiai.? Continue the count until the count of 10 or until the group reaches the wall.?Do NOT count “Ichi, Ni, Ichi, Ni” but rather “Ichi, Ni, San, Shi.” 

•       Example:  “Zenkutusu Dachi, Gedan Barai, Hidari Ashi Mae, Hidari Te.” (Optional) - “Forward leaning stance, Down Block, Left Foot, Left Hand.” (Optional) – “Strike the pose.” PAUSE – Everyone gathers himself/herself for battle. “Ichi!” (short & loud like a kiai.)  

•       When the group is ready to turn announce the turn with the same spirit: "Mawate" pause to let group gather themselves then "Ich." ? 

•       Embrace the pause between counts as well. 1 ½ to 2 second between each technique.? 

•       The same spirit and pause for counting should be used for warm-ups?and Kata. 

Domo arigato gozaimasu, 
Sensei Rob Neff, Yon-Dan  
Midtown Ueshiro Dojo