Current self-training regime

 Here is my current self-training regime. 

OSU - AB.

移動基本 (IDO-KIHON)

The first two 連続技 (Renzokuwaza) are hand attacks, the first with closed fists from the free style position and the second with open hands in zenkutsu-dachi. The first primarily relies upon propulsion and moving the center; whereas, the second primarily relies upon the whip like ‘muchiken’. The main point is to maximize the effectiveness of each individual waza.

 

1. (自由立ち、自由な構え) 上段刻み突きから上段追い突きそして中段逆突き (Jiyu-dachi, jiyu na kamae) Jodan kizami-zuki kara jodan oi-zuki soshite chudan gyaku-zuki.

 

2. (前屈立ち) 手刀上段外回し打ちから手同じで手刀上段内回し打ち、手刀縦回し打ちそして背刀上段外回し打ち (Zenkutsu-dachi) Shuto jodan sotomawashi uchi kara te onaji de shuto jodan uchimawashi uchi, shuto tatemawashi uchi soshite haito jodan sotomawashi uchi.

 

The next three combinations are ‘Legs followed by hands’. This requires the high and compact chambering of each keriwaza, relaxed and sharp kicking snap (whipping out and back, again applying the principles ofmuchiken) and body power and weight into to follow-up tewaza; in particular by ‘sinking the support leg’ after kicking to expand again for the drive forward.

 

3. (自由立ち、自由な構え) 中段前蹴り蹴上げから上段追い突きそして中段逆突き (Jiyu-dachi, jiyu na kamae) Chudan mae-geri keage kara jodan oi-zuki soshite chudan gyaku-zuki.

 

4. (自由立ち、自由な構え) 回し蹴りから後ろ蹴り蹴込み、裏拳上段横回し打ちそして中段逆突き (Jiyu-dachi, jiyu na kamae) Mawashi-geri kara uraken jodan yokomawashi uchi soshite chudan gyaku-zuki.

 

5. (前屈立ち、自由な構え) 横蹴り蹴上げから足同じで横蹴り蹴込みそして中段逆突 (Zenkutsu-dachi, jiyu na kamae) Yoko-geri keage kara yoko-geri kekomi soshite chudan gyaku-zuki.

 

The next five idokihonwaza I’m working are the five foundational ukewaza followed by counteractions. The main focal point is to prioritize the initial action (unsoku, tachikata, waza) before making the follow up actions. In sum, ‘attack with uke’. Stressing the 腰の回転 (koshi no kaiten) at the very last moment and the maximization of the 引き手 (hiki-te).

 

6. (前屈立ち) 上段揚げ受けから上段逆突き (Zenkutsu-dachi) Jodan age-uke kara jodan gyaku-zuki.

 

7. (前屈立ち) 中段外受けから中段逆突き (Zenkutsu-dachi) Chudan soto-uke kara chudan gyaku-zuki.

 

8. (前屈立ち) 中段外受けから上段刻み突きそして中段逆突き (Zenkutsu-dachi) Chudan uchi-uke kara jodan kizami-zuki soshite chudan gyaku-zuki.

 

9. (前屈立ち) 下段払いから手同じで裏拳上段縦回し打ち、手同じで上段段横回し打ちそして中段逆突き (Zenkutsu-dachi) Gedan-barai kara te onaji de uraken jodan tatemawashi uchi, te onaji de uraken jodan yokomawashi uchi soshite chudan gyaku-zuki.

 

 

10. (後屈立ち) 手刀中段受けから刻み前蹴りそして中段縦四本貫手 (Kokutsu-dachi) Shuto chudan-uke kara kizami mae-geri soshite chudan tateshihon-nukite.

 

The final waza is the classic Nakayama Masatoshi Sensei’s ‘enpi combination’. The main focus is on junansei of the shoulders, use of the core, and transitions to maximize damage damage to the opponent with the respective elbow strikes.

 

11. (前屈立ち) 縦猿臂から前猿臂、寄り足(騎馬立ち) 横猿臂、回転しながら猿臂、回りながら下がって横揚げ猿臂そして落とし猿臂 (不動立ち) (Zenkutsu-dachi) Tate-enpi kara mae-enpi, yoriashi (Kiba-dachi) yoko-enpi, kaitenshinagara-enpi, mawarinagarasagatte yoko-age-enpi soshite otoshi-enpi (fudo-dachi).

 

 

型 (KATA)

鉄騎初段 (Tekki  Shodan)

十手 (Jitte)

舞鶴小 (Maizuru Sho)

 

 

組手 (KUMITE)

 

Presently working some of my favorite nagewaza, in Jiyu-Kumite, namely:

A. Ippon seoinage (一本背負投): Single-handed shoulder throw.

B. Seoi nage (背負投): Shoulder throw.

C. Uchi mata sukashi (内股透): Inner thigh void throw.

D. Uki otoshi (浮落): Floating drop.

 

© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2024).

Some still images from self-training this morning

Here are some pictures from my self-training today. I think the images say more than text. I wish all who read this post the very best in your training! OSU - AB

Mae-geri keage kara oi-zuki. Keep the shisei (posture) as much as possible.

Migi jodan age-uke fires directly from the hiki-te position and is 'sent' via the hip action and 'shoulder snap'.

Hidari gedan-barai (higher grades must adjust the 'uke height' based on their physique and optimal effectiveness, as opposed to the basic 'one fist above the lead leg).

Chudan soto-uke... Elbow set but the uke wrist inverted.

Shuto chudan-uke.

Tateshuto chudan-uke. 

Migi chudan gyaku-zuki.

押忍!!

 © André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2024).

桜 (Sakura) 2024

Usually, I'd travel somewhere here inside Oita City, Oita Prefecture, or somewhere else in Japan to enjoy Sakura. However, due to being so busy travelling around Japan in March, my family and I decided to simply enjoy the cherry blossoms directly around our home. The very light rain and dim skies made for a serene atmosphere.

While by no means being professional photos, and just shot and posted now, I hope you enjoy them.

 © André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2024).

Group from Toodyay, Western Australia

 Ken Bainbridge Sensei brought a group of students from his dojo (Avon Valley Karate in Toodyay, Western Australia) to train here in Oita. Actually, Ken Sensei brought me to his club to conduct a seminar in 2011; furthermore, this was his third time to train with me here in Japan. If you use the 'Search Engine' here on the site, you can read about these times, also access some video footage.

 

The following ‘brief outline’ is for Ken Sensei and his students, basically ‘bullet points’ to remind them of the aspects covered on this visit. 

Ken Sensei with his group from Toodyay.

基本 (KIHON)

 

1. Japan standard ‘line up’ (lines) and correct seiza.

 

2. Sonkyo — 直突き (Choku-zuki).

 

3. Hip action in choku-zuki.

 

4. Forearm turn as opposed to ‘corkscrewing the wrist’ in linear tsukiwaza.

 

5. Correct  鍵突き (Kagi-zuki) and  騎馬立ち (Kiba-dachi).

 

 

組手 (KUMITE)

 

6.  自由組手の基本  (Jiyu kumite no kihon): effective application of 逆突き(Gyaku-zuki).

 

7.  自由組手の基本  (Jiyu kumite no kihon): effective application of 追い突き (Oi-zuki).

 

8.  自由組手の基本  (Jiyu kumite no kihon): 構え (Kamae) — ‘active two arm guard’.

 

9.  Light 自由組手 (Jiyu Kumite) focusing on relaxation, fluidity and natural actions from the correct Kamae.

 

 

型 (KATA)

 

10.  平安初段型  (Heian Shodan Kata).

 

Focal points:

 

a. Kakato Chushin and ‘leg pressing to transition through freestyle kokutsu’ in Shotokan turns.

b. Kentsui tatemawashi uchi: large scale action and body weight dropped.

c. ‘Setting gedan-barai during oi-zuki. 

To conclude, I’d like to wish Ken Sensei and his student all the very best in their training and, both a fun and safe travel back to Australia tomorrow morning.

 

押忍！！

André

 © André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2024).

Renshusei from Switzerland: Christa Lehmann (4th Dan)

 Christa Lehmann (4th Dan), from Switzerland, once again returned to Oita for private training. Of course, it was not only great to have her here in the dojo, but also to catch up. 

This time her first request was to work on 鉄騎三段 Tekki Sandan Kata. Other kata covered included some key points from: 平安初段Heian Shodan, 鉄騎二段 Tekki Nidan, 燕飛 Enpi, and 五十四歩小 Gojushiho Sho (amongst others).

 

Christa also requested to go through core kihon. So, I concentrated on: 1. Sanchin-dachi; 2. the transition from Fudo-dachi (outward tension) to Sanchin-dachi (inward tenshin)—using the opening sequences of 舞鶴大型  (Maizuru Dai Kata) as a case study; 3. The foundational ido-kihon focusing on propulsion, hips action, transitions and positioning.

 

For 組手 (Kumite) practice I had her work on a handful attacks and counterattacks. These were attacks with: a. 中段逆突き (Chudan gyaku-zuki); b. 上段追い突き／上段順突き (Jodan oi-zuki/Jodan jun-zuki). And counterattacks―utilizing ‘Deai’—with: c. 上段流し突き (Jodan nagashi-zuki); and d. 中段前り(Chudan mae-geri). Exact impact distance for her waza was a prime aim.

  

To conclude, the aforementioned notes, presented here, are for Christa to recapitulate any of the aspects covered. Overall, it was great to have her as a Renshusei here again, and to see her on-going karate development.

押忍！

© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2024).

Beach Training in Miyazaki

I enjoyed a two-hour beach training in Miyazaki. Just kihon, kata, and some basic conditioning work, but an excellent session. My focus was on 体の伸縮 (TAI NO SHIHSHUKU): the contraction and expansion of the body, which can both large/extreme, subtle, and/or a mix of both. 

I’ve personally always enjoyed training on different surfaces. Dry sand, in particular, makes the drive of the sasae-ashi challenging. Needless to say, this propulsive ‘stretch’ of the rear is of critical importance for the execution of budo karate thrusts and keriwaza.

 

What’s ironic here is that in sports karate, this is not done. In fact, it’s the total opposite: what many nickname ‘The Superman punch’. So yes, tai no shinshuku is used to the maximum; however, the difference is “maximum powered impact aimed to hit vital targets”—verses—“a tag stretching to the longest to ‘skin touch’ and escape”.

 

Obviously tai no shinshuku is by no means limited to the lower body, rather, the entire body maximizes it. These ‘squeeze/release/squeeze’ actions (etcetera) are major contributors in achieving dynamic and effective karate-waza. A really-really obvious example of this in the sentei-gata is 燕飛 (Enpi).

 

A good basic exercise we use in IKS is the extreme extension of all three thrusts in 三本連突き (Sanbon ren-zuki). Without ‘losing shomen’ each waza must fully use ground power and 腰の回転 (Koshi no kaiten: Hip Rotation. In each these actions the hiki-te must be contracted fully by a large-scale action and ‘shime’ of the fist/wrist and elbow.

 

Another related aspect here is our focus on large-scale ukewaza, especially the ‘four core closed-fist receptions’: 上段揚げ受け (Jodan age-uke), 中段外受け (Chudan soto-uke), 中段内受け (Chudan uchi-uke), and 下段払い (Gedan-barai). We train these waza primarily as attacks; again…, TAI NO SHINSHUKU. Overall, the full expression of the uke functions for the follow up waza, which cannot be reliably delivered if the initial action doesn’t maximize kime. I should add here that I also practiced 掛け受け (Kake-uke) and 手首掛け受け (Tekubi kake-uke) in 猫足立ち (Nekoashi-dachi).

 

With all the aforementioned points as foci, I concluded my training practicing the following kata: 平安初段 (Heian Shodan, 慈恩 (Jion), 燕飛 (Enpi), 百八歩 (Hyakuhappo) and 舞鶴大 (Maizuru Dai).  

© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2024).

The difference between Sports Karate kumite techniques and Budo Karate kumite techniques

I was asked to define the difference between Sports Karate kumite techniques and Budo Karate kumite techniques; that is, traditional karate. Accordingly, I will address this question today.

 

To begin with I need to state: “Yes! There are numerous differences between 武道空手(Budo Karate) and スポーツ空手 (Sports Karate) kumite techniques.

 

I will simply list the first five—off the top of my head—which were (and continue to be) drilled into me by my mentors: since I first came here to Japan in 1993.

 

Firstly, the objective of sports karate kumite technique is to defeat the opponent by snatching points in a karate match— “ultimately to win medals/trophies”, and/or, ‘to tag others more’ in the dojo.

 

In contrast, the prime objective of budo karate technique is to ‘finish’ an attacker in any context—primarily “to survive an unprovoked assault”. In sum, REAL KARATE. This underpins the constant seeking of 一撃必殺 (Ichigekki-Hissatsu). Only by always seeking this objective (in all forms of daily training) is one able to reach their maximum capacity.

 

 

Secondly, and intrinsically related to the first differentiation, the distancing ‘to win’ in sports karate is where one can ‘reach the the opponent’ then escape without being tagged in the process to gain a point; furthermore, make the technique(s) clean and clear for the referee.

 

In contrast, Budo Karate uses proper 間合 (Maai —Meeting Distance) in every technique. Therefore, the distance is inherently closer. The objective is for each 技 (Waza) “…to be at the distance to cause the maximum amount of damage as possible, if not controlled”.

 

Thirdly, sports karate kumite technique is vaguely connected to the classical waza, basic kumite and kata.

 

Whereas and, again in contrast, the basic form, explosive power, and 応用 (Oyo) are directly linked and inseparable from Budo Karate kumite techniques. As my seniors always teach, and we follow: “Kihon, Kata and Kumite are ONE”. It is essential to add here that this is not lip service, but the reality of our training: every day.

 

Fourthly, sports karate technique is limited to certain offensive techniques: primarily tsuki (thrusts), uchi (strikes), keri (kicks), (ashi-barai) foot/leg sweeps, and taoshiwaza /nagewaza (takedowns/throwing techniques).

 

Contrastingly, budo karate techniques primarily target the most vulnerable points of the body and include all of the repertoire found in the kata. This also includes the most dangerous impact techniques, shimewaza (strangulation techniques), kansetsu-waza (joint locks, dislocations, breaks) and so forth. In sum, top priority is given to the most effective techniques, delivered to the most effective targets, in a fight: again, for survival.

 

 

Fifthly, sports karate kumite technique is shallow. It is only for karate “games”. Post competition years, it is meaningless.

 

In contrast, Budo Karate kumite technique evolves through one’s life. It includes waza that doesn’t require youthfulness to be highly effective. Therefore, even if one competed, “…post competition one’s waza is not sacrificed and continues to develop on the same path”.

 

With the last point in mind, I’d like to use an analogy. Sports karate technique is the wide and easy road. It is plastic karate. It even turns the dojo (plural) practicing the ‘traditional styles’ into McDojo. This is because the training of sports karate literally "...ingrains bad habits for real fighting/self-defense". It is why the Olympic Kumite Champion got knocked out, then won the gold medal... A true budoka would not accept a medal like this, nor any title, let alone an Olympic title. Doing such is highly dishonorable and has no place in any form of Budo. It is an embarrassment for "karate", but of course, this was not representative of TRUE karate.

 

To conclude, budo karate kumite technique is the narrow road. The 武 ‘BU’ Way will never be as popular as sports. That is because it is a difficult path with minimal ‘bling’. Yes, Budo Karate is tough. Nevertheless, like anything—that is truly authentic—it brightly shines from its truth, and “…this attracts everyone who is serious about karate as traditional art and effective form of unarmed self-protection”.

押忍!!

 © André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2024).

GERMANY SEMINAR 2024 -- SEPTEMBER -- FREITAL

The Halle Dojo Committee has cancelled the seminar in June; consequently, now, my only seminar in Europe in 2024 will be Freital, Germany, in September.

Here is the official poster for the 2024 FREITAL, GERMANY SEMINAR in both German and English.

押忍!!

 © André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2024).

Do your HOMEWORK!!

One young Japanese Nidan asked me “How can I become a world class karateka?” While one could give an exhaustive answer, I thought to focus on a single point in isolation: 

"DOING HOMEWORK OUTSIDE OF DOJO TRAINING!" 

"Practice must not be limited to the dojo". -- "The world is my dojo!" (T.Asai). 

That is, practicing and refining what you’ve been doing in your Dojo Training. This type of ‘training’ can range from a very brief mini sessions, less than a minute, to a session that exceeds class times. Likewise, it can be in a dojo or anywhere for that matter, in a dogi and obi, or in daily apparel. Sports gear or suit!

 

Doing this practice reinforces and refine what your respective 先生 (Sensei) taught you.

 

For example, if a bad habit is highlighted, one can simply focus on correcting this over and over again with repetition. Actually, this literally makes correcting errors and refining easy. Be specific for yourself and watch your skill incrementally improve.

 

It will also make your respective Sensei happy with you, as they will notice that you've worked on the corrections/adjustments that they taught you/corrected you on.

Hidari chudan gyaku-zuki: 'Homework Practice' - March 20th, 2024.

Explosive speed and power can also be developed in these practices. Using specific bodyweight calisthenics and weights to strengthen specific muscle groups (especially ‘functional weight training’) can really lift one’s skill level. However, age, base fitness, health, injury and so forth, must be taken into account. The key here is to listen to your body to protect your wellbeing. Training can be hard, but we must all avoid harming ourselves as much as possible. As Asai Tetsuhiko Sensei always said: “Step-by-step”. 

Returning to the analogy of homework, think of children who attend all their classes at school, yet skip their homework. With the exception of a very small minority, these children academically don’t excel. They might get through school and graduate. They might even attain a degree at university. Nevertheless, they will never maximize their potential. It reminds me of some of my colleagues at college who lived by the saying “C’s get degrees”. My personal aim was always the A+, which meant if I fell short, I was still far above the passing rate.

 

While I am by no means academically smart, I realized with doubling my workload—doing ‘lots of homework’—I'd get the top scores most of the time; moreover, the content of what I learned would permanently remain with me. Many senior karateka who focus on practical 'bujutsu karate' stress that "...regularly training in your shoes and daily clothes is not only good, but also absolutely essential".

 

Accordingly, every day I train in my dogi in the dojo, but I also often self-practice—outside of dojo—in my regular clothing, as mentioned above. When the weather is good, I enjoy practicing outdoors on various surfaces. These extra practices are my “Homework Sessions”. One of my coaching sayings is “Muscle memory = 'brain washing' your body to act and react optimally”.

 

I do not claim to be good at karate like those above me, Asai Sensei, Nakamura Masamitsu Sensei, Osaka Yoshiharu Sensei, et al. These gentlemen are literally masters of the art, karate legends… Nonetheless, I’m following in their footsteps as best I can, with all my limitations. While I may never reach anywhere near their respective levels, such seniors have and continue to inspire me on a daily basis here in Japan. It is also a great honor to share such masters personal teachings with the younger Japanese Shotokan exponents, and karateka around the world.

 

Irrespective of any deficits that I have, one asset I have is self-awareness and an academic (and practical) understanding (and methodology) of pedagogy: “the art of teaching/coaching and learning/improvement”. This academic background has no meaning as an instructor of Shotokan Karate unless it achieves real world results; that is, tangible and on-going karate skill improvement.

 Some people might find it hard to get motivated, but if you think too much you've already lost the battle. It is in the post-training/post-practice period where you will find great satisfaction. As I have said countless times before, karate training must not be based on feelings. Rather, like brushing your teeth or bathing each day. That way, irrespective of enjoying it or not, keiko continues regardless. This is 'THE DISCIPLINE OF KARATE-DO', which transcends the dojo and positively influences other dimensions of your life.

Snapping 'Migi uraken jodan yokomawashi uchi'.

In sum. DO YOUR HOMEWORK: (1) enjoy it (improvement in skill, physicality, and character/strong spirit is a joy); and, (2) reap the benefits. 

 

押忍!!

 © André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2024).

Renshusei from Deutschland (PART TWO)

This YouTube video is a "subtle reminder" for the following karateka from Deutschland, Stephan (4th Dan), Peer (4th Dan), Axel (4th Dan) and Andy (3rd Dan): all of whom came here to Oita as IKS RENSHUSEI on March 4th, 5th and 6th of 2024.

This video is primarily to remind them of the key points. I was very happy to see their technical development over the three days of training here in the dojo.

In particular, linking KIHON, KATA and KUMITE to achieve the TRADITIONAL WAZA/OYO.

During the training, the basis of Kihon and Kumite training were primarily (by request) Hangetsu, Jion and Kakuyoku Nidan.

As always impact training and oyo (practical application) were of prime focus. IKS is first and fore-most BUDO/BUJUTSU KARATE.

OSU, AB

© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2024).