top of page
  • White Facebook Icon
  • White Instagram Icon

TRAINING

From years of experience we know that the best way to get someone to black belt status is to build up a series of attainable short-term goals. These are the various belt promotions or gradings you will take on your journey towards your black belt.

Although the gap between a beginner and black belt can feel immense, the jump to your first belt (yellow) is a realistic goal of around 12 weeks. By constantly setting and reaching these smaller goals we develop as martial artists and as human beings.

thumbnail_IMG_3528_edited.jpg

The main technical characteristic of Shorin-ryu Karate is to concentrate one’s power (kime) into the target smoothly, accurately, in the precise instant it is needed. This method of concentrating power is practiced through the kata internally to externally, using movements that are naturally healthy for the practitioner. This practice causes no pressure on the internal organs and little disturbance of respiration. Relaxed natural movement punctuated with focused releases of power causes no unnecessary muscle fatigue. Energy is preserved leaving the body and mind alert and ready to respond as needed. 

A typical Karate class

Lessons begin with a warm up. Aerobic activity is followed by a thorough stretch, which allows for a greater range of movement and reduces the risk of injury.

 

Twice during the lesson, once after the warm up and then at the end of the class, students are taken through the Bowing Ceremony, a traditional sequence used to demonstrate respect to the Sensei, fellow students and the Dojo. This involves a brief period of meditation with a focus on breathing.

During a normal lesson, students can be taught Kihon Waza, Uke Waza, Kata and Kumite:

  • Kihon Waza (basic technique) is how we develop striking and blocking skills.

  • Uke Waza (blocking technique) is performed with a partner and teaches students the correct use of blocks and strikes.

  • Kata (pattern). We teach historically correct Kata of the Shuri-te lineage as taught to all Ryukyukan members through Hanshi Nohara. These patterns teach students fighting skills that have been past down over hundreds of years.

  • Kumite (exchange of hands). Sparring is the culmination of all of the above training, allowing students to put the skills that have learnt into practice.

"When you practice the stances of karate, be sure to keep your back straight, lower your shoulders, put strength in your legs, stand firmly, and drop your energy into your lower abdomen."

"When you train, do so as if on the battlefield. Your eyes should glare, shoulders drop, and body harden. You should always train with intensity and spirit as if actually facing the enemy, and in this way you will naturally be ready."

Anko Itosu (Shuti-Te Master, 1831-1915)

bottom of page