tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49209508303657149502024-02-20T01:40:53.245-08:00Shojukan Kobudo (Old Ways) DojoThe Shojukan Kobudo (Old Ways) Dojo is currently headed by Shihan Bud Morgan. Born in 1956, his studies began early in the 1970's. His Motto "Always a student first". A founding member of the Kokusai Seito Karate Kenkyukai, or ISKK, and current member of the Dai Nippon Butoku-kai. Our lifelong desire is to share the old ways of the martial arts of
Okinawa and Japan. The words "Onigashimasu", or "Teach Me, Please" is used widely in our Dojo.
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger2125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920950830365714950.post-1176705320196394362011-12-31T08:08:00.000-08:002013-09-18T12:40:32.601-07:00<div class="widget-content">
The methods of instruction within our Dojo come from the common thread of most karate lineages. Kanga "Tode" Sakugawa (1733-1815) is credited with the foundation of Okinawan Te. He was the student of Kusanku, the Chinese agent who was stationed in the Ryukyu Islands. Sakugawa was also the teacher of karate's most famous teacher, Sokon "Bushi" Matsumura, who in turn was the teacher of Ankoh Itosu, who developed the "Seito Karate" that was then passed to Japan and from there to the rest of the world. The lineage of Itosu Sensei included a virtual who's who in the world of Karate. Men like Chosin Chibana, Chomo Hanashiro, Kentsu Yabu, Kanken Toyama, Gichin Funakoshi, Kenwa Mabuni, Hiroshi Kinjo, and Mitani Kazuya have all followed in his steps.<br />
<br />
There were of course many more important teachers in Okinawan history that have made an impact on our Dojo. The lineage's of Kanryo Higaonna, Kanbun Uechi, Matayoshi Shinpo, Shinken Taira, Shigeru Nakamura, and Seikichi Odo to name but a few. <br />
<br />
The methodology within the our Dojo is also somewhat comprehensive, encompassing the practice of a number of specialized categories of techniques which are ultimately integrated into the syllabus of it's practitioners. They are the core strategy in the ability to use the four points of survival.....Evade/Receive, Stun, Incapacitate, and Eliminate the opponent. Only when these four steps are complete are you safe to engage another opponent, or to move to your ultimate safety.<br />
<br />
These include Tachi waza (stances) and how to move while maintaining balance. Central to this theory is the Tai Sabaki, or the ability to change body positions and to evade the attack of your opponent, these are used in conjunction with Uke waza (receiving techniques).<br />
<br />
Tsuki waza (punching techniques), Uchi waza (striking techniques), and Geri waza (kicking techniques) are frequently practiced on the Makiwara, hanging Bags, and on the Chinese Mook Jong, or wooden man. <br />
<br />
Kansetsu waza (techniques applied to joints), Osaekomi waza (techniques of holding and immobilizing), Shime waza (choking techniques), Nage waza (techniques of throwing), Torite or Tuide waza (techniques of grappling) and Ukemi waza (methods of falling and rolling) are derived from ancient techniques originating in Japan, and used for hundreds if not thousands of years by the Samurai warriors. <br />
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There is also training in the use of various ancient weapons (Okinawa Kobudo), including the Bo (staff), Sai (three pronged short sword), Kama (sickles), Tonfa (wood handles), Nunchaku (flail), Eku (Okinawan boat oar), the Tekko (knuckle dusters), Ticchu (hand spike), Jiffa (hairpins), and the Kuwa (common garden hoe). <br />
<br />
Many of these techniques were devised in Okinawa proper, but many were also part of the ancient Japanese art of Jujitsu. One must understand the history of Okinawa to fully realize the impact of all the influences that came into Okinawa from China and Japan, in order to see how the karate we know today actually came into existence.<br />
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<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;">About the Kata of Karate…</span></h2>
<strong><span style="color: black;">By Mitani Kazuya</span></strong><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;">There is a big mis-apprehension in foreign countries today that Japanese people study a large number of kata. Perhaps some did a long time ago but our seniors (sempai) were happy to study just two or three to great length. It is not useful to learn a great number of kata. Kata is not technology (waza) but a style (yoshiki). It is not the style but the technology of fighting that is useful to us. Technology is in a style but the style itself is not technology. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;">Thus the great difference in the relationship between a style and technology is not usually known. Traditional karate differs greatly from other karate at this point. Although many do not know of this truth, this is the difference between Shurite and other karate. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;">There are very few kata that relate to kumite. The only karate kata that I teach my students are Naifanchi Shodan and Pinan Nidan. I use the technology from these kata in kumite competition.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong><span style="color: black;">Pinan Nidan</span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;">Pinan Nidan is the simplest kata. It is the stepping punch (oi-zuki) and the correct timing and proper distance (maniau) that I teach from Pinan Nidan. The stepping punch is delivered before the foot lands. It is the method of putting weight into a punch. It is the gift from Matsumura that this technique derives.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong><span style="color: black;">Naifanchi</span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;">There is no oi-zuki in the kumite lesson from Naifanchi. One of the features is not switching the body. It is “ushiro-te sabaki maete-zuki” that is demonstrated. It means that kizami-zuki is carried out, by defending with the rear hand. This is difficult waza in a kumite tournament. Therefore, I only teach this to experienced adult competitors.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black;">I teach neither sanbon kumite nor ippon kumite. I do not teach ido kihon either. This kihon is for kata, not for karate. I think it is a big mistake and will not lead to understanding karate. I carry out the methods for practicing original karate. Karate practice methods are not about learning kata. Karate practices fighting techniques by using a makiwara. This is the difference between true karate and other karate. The “10 teachings of Itosu” is our textbook. Study it closely, and you will understand.</span><br />
<br />
<h2 class="title">
</h2>
<h2 class="title">
When we hear the word "Karate"</h2>
Authored by Kazuya Mitani; Translated by Joe Swift;
Edited by Bob McMahon <br />
<br />
When we hear the word karate, we are apt to fall
into the illusion that we are to be carrying out punches and kicks.
<br />
<br />
However, kumite (striking at each other) leads into toride (grappling)
and concludes with nage (throwing). <br />
<br />
If the opponent comes and grabs our
body, there is no need for kumite. If he grabs our arm, we perform a chudan-uke
(mid level block) into a toride technique. If he grabs our shoulder we perform a
jodan-uke (high block) into a toride technique. A grab is slower than a punch so
it is easy to grasp his arm. <br />
<br />
Leaving the mental aspect aside for a
while, even the technical goal of karate is not to blast people into oblivion
with punches and kicks. The kata (fixed exercise routines) show us this.
<br />
<br />
Without understanding the kuden (oral transmissions) and only
interpreting kata in one’s own way, one will never come to understand karate.
<br />
<br />
The precepts of Itosu state this clearly: <br />
“Attack, receive, release
and grappling all have many oral transmissions associated with their use.”
<br />
<br />
I often see those who throw their opponent with a Judo or Aikido
technique and then finish him off with a punch; but this is actually backwards.
We can do little more than call this ‘karate for one’s own personal
satisfaction’. <br />
<br />
It is not that easy to throw a person, and as an entry,
we have kumite and toride. <br />
<br />
This is also clearly stated in the precepts
of Itosu: <br />
<br />
“Swear to not harm people with your fists and feet.”
<br />
<br />
Makiwara (target- maybe wood, punching bag or a partner) practice
centers on kumite and toride, but that does not make it wrong to practice
throwing as well. Matsumura Sokon Sensei developed this from an old Jigen- Ryu
Kenjutsu training method. <br />
<br />
“One must practice the outer art of karate
many times, as well as study how they are used.”…. “If one were to spend 1-2
hours a day at the makiwara…” <br />
<br />
In other words, it is necessary to
practice kata many times, but it is more important to practice the techniques in
the kata at the makiwara for 1-2 hours a day. <br />
<br />
Isn’t mainland Japanese
karate amiss in this aspect? I will go into more detail on this elsewhere, but
the purpose of karate training is to gain the power to throw an opponent.
Without understanding what karate is, this point is not easy to grasp.
<br />
<br />
Mitani Kazuya,<br />
Okinawa Seito Karate-do Seitokukai<br />
<br />
<br />
<h2>
About Kumite and Tuite</h2>
<em><strong>By Mitani Kazuya (Translated by Joe Swift from the Seitokukai Japanese language web site</strong></em>)<br />
<br />
I have already written on Kihon-gata and Kihon for Kumite. If Kumite and Tuite are the actual techniques, then kata is the Kihon.<br />
<br />
This is the theory of Karate practice as written in Itosu’s 10 lessons, i.e. to learn Kumite through Kata and to practice on the Makiwara. I also learned this way, but I was interested in how styles other than Karate did things as well. Especially the competitive format as developed by the JKA.<br />
<br />
As I watched this format, I believed that Karate could also be used in this arena, so I participated in the modern arena. I believed that 70-80% of Karate techniques could be used there. And, just as I thought the athletes from my organization showed the power of Karate. I also have interest in other styles fighting techniques.<br />
<br />
Leaving this alone for a while, I also hear that Karate is based on kata, or that it is a Budo passed on through kata. I have believed this way of thinking was a bit odd over the years. The different kinds of Te probably had this tendency, but the Te of Matsumura had to have been Kumite and Tuite. The concept of “being in time” that Matsumura passed on shows this.<br />
<br />
Karate uses Kumite and Tuite as its central practice as well, according to Itosu’s 10 precepts. Hanashiro Chomo Sensei (Kinjo Sensei’s teacher) wrote his “Karate Kumite” in 1905, the year Karate was established, so Kumite existed right from the very beginning.<br />
<br />
Leaving Tuite alone for a while, this means that Kumite was a central theme in Karate. Hanashiro Sensei was one of the originators of Karate, and he learned Matsumura’s Te, meaning that the same was true of Matsumura’s Te. Also, as we can see from the 10 Precepts, Tuite was also used in Karate.<br />
Karate was practiced mainly solo, but it was not Kata practice. Even if you practice kata every day you will not improve at Karate. This is also generally misunderstood.<br />
<br />
Itosu Sensei distinguished between Kumite and Tuite, but I believe this distinction is comparatively recent. I believe that they were considered the same in the past.<br />
<br />
On the “Oshima Hikki,” Te is referred to as Kumiai-jutsu. The person who was responsible for bringing it to Ryukyu was Koshankin. Thinking on the existence of Kushanku Kata, then it must have been Koshankin who disseminated the Kumiai-jutsu on which this kata is based. This Kumiai-jutsu may have been dying out or lost by the time Matsumura came around (this is why Matsumura’s Te was created), but it was the first art transmitted.<br />
<br />
This Kumiai-jutsu, as we can see from the kata, must have considered Kumite and Tuite as the same thing. Looking at Motobu Sensei’s “Watashi no Karate-jutsu” and “Okinawa Kenpo Karate-jutsu” (he says Karate but it is really Shuri-te), he shows many photos within grappling range, showing that Kumite and Tuite were not clearly distinguished. (Comparing these photos with the Kumite photos in later books, we can see that Motobu Sensei was actually good at what he was showing).<br />
<br />
Kinjo Sensei is the same in this regard: when facing him and exchanging blows, you are invariably grappled and tied up. Thus, Kumite and Tuite are actually one in the same, but they were broken up for the purposes of analysis.<br />
<br />
Mitani Kazuya</div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920950830365714950.post-30153866526231166202011-09-05T12:56:00.001-07:002023-02-17T05:13:43.328-08:00<strong><em>The Precepts of Sokon "Bushi" Matsumura</em></strong><br />
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<strong>You must first resolve to study if you wish to understand the truth of martial arts. This resolve is very important.</strong><br />
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<strong>Fundamentally, the arts and the martial arts are the same.</strong><br />
<strong>Each has three fundamental elements.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>As far as Art is concerned they are Shisho-no-Gaku, Kunko-no-Gaku and Jussha-no-Gaku.</strong><br />
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<strong>Shisho-no-Gaku is the art of creative writing and reading – in a word, literature.</strong><br />
<strong>Kunko-no-Gaku means to study the past and gain an understanding of ethics by relating past events to our way of life.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Both Shisho-no-Gaku and Kunko-no-Gaku are incomplete until supplemented by Jussha-no-Gaku, (the study of the moral aspects of the teaching of Confucius).</strong><br />
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<strong>Have a tranquil heart and you can prevail over a village, a country, or the world. The study of Jussha-no-Gaku is the supreme study over both Shisho-no-Gaku and Kunko-no-Gaku.</strong><br />
<strong>These then are the three elements necessary for the study of the Arts.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>If we consider Budo, there are also three precepts. They are Gukushi-no-Bugei, Meimoko-no-Bugei and Budo-no-Bugei.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Gukushi-no-Bugei is nothing more than a technical knowledge of Bugei. Like a woman, it is just superficial and has no depth.</strong><br />
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<strong>Meimoko-no-Bugei refers to a person who has physical understanding of Bugei. He can be a powerful and violent person who can easily defeat other men. He has no self-control and is dangerous and can even harm his own family.</strong><br />
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<strong>Budo-no-Bugei is what I admire. With this you can let the enemy destroy himself – just wait with a calm heart and the enemy will defeat himself.</strong><br />
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<strong>People who practice Budo-no-Bugei are loyal to their friends, their parents and their country. They will do nothing that is unnatural and contrary to nature.</strong><br />
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<strong>We have “Seven Virtues of Bu”. They are:</strong><br />
<strong>Bu prohibits violence.<br />
Bu keeps discipline in soldiers.<br />
Bu keeps control among the population.<br />
Bu spreads virtue.<br />
Bu gives a peaceful heart.<br />
Bu helps keep peace between people.<br />
Bu makes people or a nation prosperous.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Our forefathers handed these seven virtues down to us.<br />
Just as Jussha-no-Gaku is supreme in the arts, so Budo-no-Bugei is supreme in the martial arts.</strong><br />
<strong>“Mon-Bu” (Art and Martial Arts) have the same common elements. We do not need Gukushi-no-Bugei or Meimoko-no-Bugei – this is the most important thing.</strong><br />
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<strong>I leave these words to my wise and beloved deshi Kuwae.<br />
- Bucho Matsumura</strong><br />
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<br />
<strong>Around the turn of the century, Ankoh Itosu introduced Karate (Tode) to the Okinawan Board of Education, and was asked to develop a program suitable for inclusion in the Physical Education curriculum. This Karate was to be distinguished by a different Kanji, being read as “Kute” or as “Empty Hand”, instead of “Tode” or “China Hand”, however both are pronounced as “Karate”.</strong><br />
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<strong>In 1904, Itosu introduced the “Pinan” Kata 1-5. </strong><br />
<br />
<strong>He also designated a total of fourteen kata for his PE karate program. The kata’s named were Pinan Shodan, Pinan Nidan, Pinan Sandan, Pinan Yondan, Pinan Godan, Naihanchi Shodan, Naihanchi Nidan, Naihanchi Sandan, Bassai Dai, Bassai Sho, Kosokun Dai, Kosokun Sho, Chinto, and Gojushiho.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>In 1908, Itosu presented his “Toudi Jakkajo” (Karate Report) to outline his less lethal form of Te by way of his famous “Ten Teachings”.</strong><br />
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<br />
<br />
<strong><em>10 precepts from Yasutsune “Ankoh” Itosu</em></strong><br />
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<strong>°Tode did not develop from the way of Buddhism or Confucianism. In the recent past Shorin-ryu and Shorei-ryu were brought over from China. They both have similar strong points, so, before there are too many changes, I should like to write these down.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>°Tode is primarily for the benefit of health. In order to protect one’s parents or one’s master, it is proper to attack a foe regardless of one’s own life. Never attack a lone adversary. If one meets a villain or a ruffian one should not use tode but simply parry and step aside.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>°The purpose of tode is to make the body hard like stones and iron; hands and feet should be used like the points of arrows; hearts should be strong and brave. If children were to practice tode from their elementary-school days, they would be well prepared for military service. When Wellington and Napoleon met they discussed that ‘tomorrow’s victory will come from today’s playground’.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>°Tode cannot be learned quickly. Like a slow moving bull, that eventually walks a thousand miles, if one studies seriously every day, in three or four years one will understand what tode is about. The very shape of one’s bones will change. Those who study as follows will discover the essence of tode:</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>°In tode the hands and feet are important so they should be trained thoroughly on the makiwara. In so doing drop your shoulders, open your lungs, take hold of your strength, grip the floor with your feet and sink your intrinsic energy to your lower abdomen. Practice with each arm one or two hundred times.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>°When practicing tode forms (kata) make sure your back is straight, drop your shoulders, take your strength and put it in your legs, stand firmly and put the intrinsic energy in your lower abdomen, the top and bottom of which must be held together tightly.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>°The bunkai (application of kata techniques) should be carefully practiced, one by one, many times. Because these techniques are passed on by word of mouth, take the trouble to learn the explanations and decide when and in what context it would be possible to use them. Observe principles of torite(grappling) and applications will be more easily understand.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>°You must decide whether tode is for cultivating a healthy body or for defense.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>°During practice you should imagine you are on the battle field. When blocking and striking make the eyes glare, drop the shoulders and harden the body. Now block the enemy’s punch and strike! Always practice with this spirit so that, when on the real battlefield, you will naturally be prepared.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>°Do not overexert yourself during practice because the intrinsic energy will rise up your face and eyes will turn red and your body will be harmed. Be careful.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>°In the past many of those who have mastered tode have lived to an old age. This is because tode aids the development of the bones and sinews, it helps the digestive organs and is good for the circulation of the blood. Therefore, from now on tode should become the foundation of all sports lessons from elementary schools onward. If this is put into practice there will, I think, be many men who can win against ten aggressors.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>The reason for stating all this is that it is my opinion that all students at the Okinawa Prefectural Teachers’ Training College should practice tode, so that when they graduate from here they can teach the children in the schools exactly as I have taught them. Within ten years tode will spread all over Okinawa and to the Japanese mainland. This will be a great asset to our militaristic society. I hope you will carefully study the words I have written.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Itosu Ankoh 1908</strong><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<em><strong>Following are twenty oral transmissions (Kuden) for the understanding of kata as taught by Kubota Shozan (a student of Gichin Funakoshi), from his student, Higaki Gennosuke:</strong></em><br />
<strong><em></em></strong><strong><em><br />
</em></strong><strong><em>1. Countering:</em></strong> Motobu Choki commented that the blocking hand must immediately become the attacking hand. It is not a true martial technique to block with one hand and counter with another. When the block and counter-attack are simultaneous that is true martial technique. “There cannot be multiple attacks against true Okinawan karate, because if an attack is countered properly, there can be no further attack.”<br />
<br />
<strong><em>2. Immobilize the Opponent before Striking:</em></strong> The opponent must be rendered into such a state s/he cannot attack again, or even move, before executing a strike or kick.<br />
<br />
<strong><em>3. The Names of Movements have been Disguised:</em></strong> Originally there were no names for the movements. It wasn’t until about 1935 that Shotokan established the terminology to teach large groups. However the terminology hid the meaning of the techniques. Many “blocks” were actually attacks.<br />
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<strong><em>4. There are no Techniques that End with a Block:</em></strong> There is no combative movement that ends with a block; there is always a counteroffensive movement. Moves that are called blocks are really attacks.<br />
<br />
<strong><em></em></strong><br />
<strong><em>5. Block with Both Hands:</em></strong> In reality it is difficult to block an attack with one hand. When the hands cross across the chest, it hides a double block, which holds the true meaning. This is based on the fact that it is a natural movement to raise both hands when something comes suddenly at you.<br />
<br />
<strong><em>6. Grabbing Hand and Pulling Hand:</em></strong> You pull your hand to your hip because that pulls the opponent into position for attack. The opponent will be pulled off-balance, you double the speed and power and the grabbing and pulling can be used for the beginning of throws and joint techniques.<br />
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<strong><em>7. The Front Hand is the Attacking Hand:</em></strong> By attacking with the front hand you attack from the closest possible distance. (The back hand is the blocking hand).<br />
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<strong><em>8. Perform a Movement that Consists of Two Counts in One Count:</em></strong> Many movements in kata that are shown as two count are really one-count techniques, which can be explained by a switch step.<br />
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<strong><em>9. Switch Step (Fumi kae):</em></strong> Most of the movements in kata use a walking gait. To correctly use the movements, it is necessary to change to a switch step. When this is understood, the meaning of kata will deepen. More power can be applied to the punch when the feet slide and the distance can be adjusted between you and the opponent as well.<br />
<br />
<em><strong>10. Kicks are Performed Low While Grabbing the Opponent:</strong></em> “Kicks are meant to be delivered below the belt.” In most of kata bunkai, kicks are executed when grabbing the opponent. This helps stabilize a person when “standing on one leg.” Also, in close fighting where one can grab an opponent, the field of vision is limited, so it is difficult to defend against a low kick.<br />
<br />
<strong><em>11. There is One Opponent to the Front:</em></strong> Do not be fooled by the embusen (performance line). As a rule, there is only one opponent to the front. S/he is actually being dragged to the front and rear and to the left and right in a Copernican (the method of tori maintaining the center) change.<br />
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<strong><em>12. Hang the Opponent to Sky:</em></strong> This is the same as a forearm twist (yuki chigai) in Aikido. It is represented in between techniques in kata.<br />
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<strong><em>13. Re-block and Re-grip:</em></strong> This refers to controlling the opponent by shutting down the attack by using both hands. The first three blocks of Heian Sandan cross the opponent’s arms (fushu in Chinese; juji garami in Aikido).<br />
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<strong><em>14. Take the Opponent’s Back:</em></strong> This is the most difficult position for an opponent to counter attack from.<br />
<br />
<strong><em></em></strong><br />
<strong><em>15.</em></strong> <strong><em>Crossed Leg Stance: </em></strong>Signifies Body Rotation or a Joint Kick<br />
<br />
<strong><em></em></strong><br />
<strong><em>16.</em></strong> <strong><em>Jumps and Body Shifts: </em></strong>Represent Throws<br />
<br />
<strong><em></em></strong><br />
<strong><em>17.</em></strong> <strong><em>Break the Balance: </em></strong>in a triangle whose Base is the Base of the Opponent’s Feet, and the third point being the Head, the center of balance can be manipulated accordingly.<br />
<br />
<em><strong></strong></em><br />
<em><strong>18. Me-oto-te (The Use of Both Hands Together):</strong></em> An example would be morote uke. The supporting hand (against the elbow) is the grabbing and pulling hand. The “blocking” hand makes the attack.<br />
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<em><strong>19.</strong></em> <strong><em>Cut the Forearm:</em></strong> Try to use a technique similar to kendo in which the forearm is “Chopped” leaving damage to the tendons.<br />
<br />
<strong><em></em></strong><br />
<strong><em>20.</em></strong> <strong><em>The Kamae is an Invitation:</em></strong> When you know where the attack will occur, it is easier to defend against it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<h2 class="title">
The Shuri-te of Gusukuma Shinpan</h2>
<strong>Considerations for kicking:</strong> <br />
<div class="widget-content">
<br />
1. When kicking in kata or kumite, the back must be straight and true so as to allow you to punch if blocked. <br />
2. The quickest kicks are of the snapping variety. <br />
3. The kata kicks are performed with the toe-tipped foot. <br />
4. The most important kick is that done to the chudan (middle) area. <br />
5. Consider the knee the "hinge" of the kick. <br />
6. The ankle must be strong in kicking as the wrist is strong in punching. <br />
7. The leg is loose and flexible while the toes are tight. Just like a punch, the arm is loose while the fist is tight. <br />
8. When kicking, kick with both legs. <br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Considerations for punching:</strong> <br />
<br />
1. The large knuckle finger and the thumb squeeze the index finger in a good fist. <br />
2. In making a strong fist, the index finger is folded first. <br />
3. Punching is done with a loose arm and tight fist. <br />
4. You strike with the index knuckle first. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Kuden no Uke Waza:</strong><br />
<br />
<strong><em>1)
</em></strong>Uke waza, like keri waza and tsuki waza, are impacting waza by
nature. However the design of uke waza was meant to be used along with body
change waza as a method of removing yourself from the line of attack, while at
the same time aligning yourself for the counter attack, from a position of
advantage.<br />
<br />
<strong><em>2)</em></strong> Of primary importance is
understanding that unlike keri waza and tsuki waza, the uke waza do not remain
static as they appear in kata. Kicks, punches, and strikes symbolize "final"
ending positions, while uke waza does not imply that at all. The position you
see in kata reflect the "interim" position, or intermediate movement of uke waza
only.<br />
<br />
<em><strong>3) </strong></em>To not understand that uke waza allow
you to lead the opponent to the application of torite waza, would be a
shortcoming in fighting strategy.We have all heard the maxum, "There are no
blocks in Karate", but this does not imply that they must only be
strikes.<br />
<br />
<em><strong>4)</strong></em> Also in this light, keep in mind
the "movement analysis" (Bunkai) of all uke waza include the motion of the head,
body, shoulders, upper arms, and elbows, waist and legs....not just the forearm
and fist area of the blocking appendages.<br />
<br />
<em><strong>5)</strong></em>
Gedan Barai (as a waza) is descriptive of a "movement" (lower level sweeping).
This movement once analyzed, plays many important roles, the least being a
"blocking" tool (as viewed from the end of the fist/hand). IMHO far too much
emphasis is placed on looking at the "end placement" of the hand/fist, and not
on the action of the arm itself.<br />
<br />
<em><strong>6)</strong></em> Its
usefulness in karate should be observed as an "interim movement" that is
continued into another waza, ie. lifting, sweeping, grabbing, pulling, throwing,
and striking. From this perspective the Gedan Barai becomes a waza of prime
importance, one that has a multitude of possibilities, and that is the reason
that it is was always taught as one of the first techniques learned. It is
really that important, and it is somewhat a shame that it has been relegated to
such a lowly status in many modern styles.<br />
<br />
<strong><em>7)</em></strong>
The basic premise of receiving the attack includes body movement/shifting, which
may or may not be the first action, as the controlling factor is/was/will be the
speed/velocity of the attack itself, coupled to the surprise factor, and your
individual readiness and capability to respond to
it.<br />
<br />
<strong><em>8)</em></strong> The uke/blocking/parrying action may
actually come at the same time, or in front of, or behind the body shift. This
will be determined by your response time, and therefore your actual ability at
perceiving the threat in real time.<br />
<br />
<em><strong>9)</strong></em> Block with the whole arm vs just the wrist or hand, and utilyze mawashi-uke style when/if your attacker allows. This is a
blocking and/or receiving method that has great flexibilty, and can be used at
all levels and with several directions. This is connected to change-body waza.<br />
<br />
<em><strong>10)</strong></em>
What happens next is what determines the outcome of the attack. Are you able
to utilize your response as a bridge to allow you to control the situation
further to it's conclusion? Must you implement serious waza, and risk serious injury to your opponent? If it has to be done, it must be done without fear or hesitation, nor remorse. You heart will lead you in battle. Your mind can overcome many things. Your body will likely be worn, and ragged, and possibly broken. Such is the nature of true combat.<br />
<br />
<em>Kuden, by Shihan Morgan</em><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>The Goals of the Shojukan Dojo:</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
1. To provide a legitimate pathway of instruction to all students and friends of our Dojo, so that they might find the true path to correct Okinawa-te, and to the Seito Karate-do and the Kobujutsu, the true ways of the Okinawa Bushi.<br />
<br />
2. To lead by example, seeking the Truth, and most importantly sharing the Truth. Be humble in your search, for many know the Way, and many are further along the path than you. They are your Sempai, regardless of style or affiliation. They are the key to learning, and must be respected accordingly. <br />
<br />
3. In Karate, all things begin and end in Rei.<br />
<br />
<br />
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<em>Kata - a list of kata currently being studied at the Shojukan Dojo,
concerning Japanese/Okinawan Karate-do. </em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>Also
included below are the kata of Ryukyu Kobudo/Kobujutsu as well as the less common kata
that are present with our method of Ryukyu Kempo.</em><br />
<br />
<em>From Shotokan-ryu:</em><br />
<em></em><br />
Taikyoku<br />
Heian Shodan<br />
Heian Nidan<br />
Heian Sandan<br />
Heian Yondan<br />
Heian Godan <br />
Tekki Shodan<br />
Bassai-dai<br />
Kanku-dai<br />
<br />
<em>From Seito Karate-do:</em><br />
<em></em><br />
Taikyoku<br />
Pinan
Shodan<br />
Pinan Nidan<br />
Pinan Sandan<br />
Pinan Yondan<br />
Pinan
Godan<br />
Naihanchi<br />
Passai of Itosu<br />
Kusanku of Itosu<br />
<br />
<em>From Ryukyu
Kobujutsu:</em><br />
<br />
Choun no Kun<br />
Shushi no Kun<br />
Tsuken Akachu no Eku
Di<br />
Matayoshi no Tunfa<br />
Matayoshi no Sai<br />
Takamitsu no Kama<br />
Takamitsu
no Nunchaku<br />
Maezato no Tekko<br />
Sakugawa no Kun<br />
<br />
<em>The Ryukyu Kempo Kata
that are included at the Shojukan Dojo are a grouping of specific kata related
directly to that system. These
include</em>:<br />
<br />
Naihanchi</div><div class="widget-content">Ping-ahn Shodan</div><div class="widget-content">Ping-ahn Nidan<br />
Ping-ahn (chu)<br />
Rohai<br />
Passai of Itosu/Chibana</div><div class="widget-content">Passai of Matsumura<br />
Wanshu (Tomari)<br />
Kusanku of Itosu/Chibana</div><div class="widget-content">Kusanku of Chatan Yara</div><div class="widget-content">Shinken<br />Seiinchin<br /><br />
</div>
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This is a total of 39 Kata at the disposal of our Dojo for training. Not all persons will learn every kata, and they are in no way required as a total that must be learned. We simply do not approach Kata training in that manner. Further, at our Dojo we include the following outline to describe the information that is important to our members. It is our Training Syllabus so to speak, and is simply my attempt to list those things that each person should learn in the course of his studies here at the Shojukan Dojo.</div>
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Atemi Waza</h2>
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<strong><em>Chudan kyusho - Middle body vital
points</em></strong> <br />
<br />
Shofu - Side of neck <br />
Sonu - Base of throat
<br />
Hichu - Adam's apple <br />
Danchu - Sternum upper level <br />
Kyototsu - Base if
sternum <br />
Suigetsu - solar-plexus <br />
Kyoei - Armpits <br />
Ganchu - Below the
nipples <br />
Denko - Between 7th and 8th ribs <br />
Inazuma - Sides, above hips
<br />
Myojo - Below the navel <br />
Soda - Between the shoulder blades <br />
Kodenko -
Base of spine <br />
Wanshun - Triceps <br />
Hijizume - Elbow joint <br />
Udekansetsu -
Arm and shoulder joint <br />
Kote - Wrist <br />
Uchijakuzawa - Inside forearm at
pulse <br />
Sotojakuzawa - Wrist edge above pulse <br />
Shuko - Back of hand
<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><em>Jodan Kyusho - Upper body vital points</em></strong><br />
<strong><em>
</em></strong><br />
Tendo - Crown of the head <br />
Tento - Area between crown
and forehead <br />
Komekami - Temples <br />
Mimi - Ears <br />
Miken - Bridge of nose
<br />
Seidon - Area above and below the eyes <br />
Gansei - Eyeballs <br />
Jinchu -
Region below nose in middle of upper lip <br />
Gekon - Below lower lip
<br />
Mikazuki - Jaw <br />
Dokko - Behind the ears or the mastoid process
<br />
Keichu/nape - back of neck where it meets skull
<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><em>Gedan Kyusho - Lower body vital points</em></strong><br />
<strong><em>
</em></strong><br />
Kinteki - Testicles <br />
Yako - Inside upper thigh
<br />
Fukuto - Outside lower thigh <br />
Hizakansetsu - Knee joint <br />
Sobi - Base
of calf muscle <br />
Kokotsu - Shin <br />
Kori - Instep <br />
Kusagakure - Outside top
of foot <br />
Bitei - Coccyx/Tailbone <br />
Ushiro Inazuma - Below buttocks at
junction of leg </div>
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Kansetsu Waza</h2>
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Ikkyo - first control elbow pin or press <br />
Nikyo -
second control wrist bend to side <br />
Sankyo - third control wrist twist
<br />
Yonkyo - fourth control wrist/arm flex <br />
Gokyo - fifth control wrist bend
inward <br />
Yubi Dori - finger control stretch <br />
Kote Dori - wrist press
<br />
Hiji Kime - elbow lapel lock <br />
Hiji Ate - elbow hyper-extending strike
<br />
Ude Gatame - forearm armlock <br />
Hiza Gatame - knee armlock
</div>
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Nage Waza</h2>
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<em>GROUP # 1</em><br />
• O Goshi - major hip
throw<br />
• Hane Goshi - spring hip throw<br />
• Harai Goshi - sweeping loin
throw<br />
• Koshi Guruma - loin wheel throw<br />
<br />
<br />
<em>GROUP #
2</em><br />
• O Soto Gari - major outer reaping throw<br />
• O Uchi Mata - major
inner thigh reaping throw<br />
• Ashi Barai - foot sweeping<br />
• Tomoe Nage -
stomach or high circle throw<br />
<br />
<br />
<em>GROUP # 3</em><br />
• Seio Nage -
shoulder throw<br />
• Ushiro Nage - rearward throw<br />
• Kata Guruma - shoulder
wheel throw<br />
• Sukui Nage - scooping throw<br />
<br />
<br />
<em>GROUP #
4</em><br />
• Irimi Nage - entering/encircling neck throw<br />
• Shiho Nage -
four corners throw<br />
• Kaiten Nage - arm wheel throw<br />
• Kote Gaeshi - outer
wrist twist throw</div>
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<span class="widget-item-control"><span class="item-control blog-admin"><span style="color: #473624;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<br />
<em><strong>Tachi Kata-The Stances</strong></em><br />
<strong><em></em></strong> </div>
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• Musubi Dachi - Heel to heel attention stance <br />
• Heisoku
Dachi - Feet together attention stance <br />
• Zenkutsu Dachi - Front stance <br />
•
Kokutsu Dachi - Back stance <br />
• Kiba Dachi - Horse riding stance <br />
• Shiko
Dachi - Straddle leg stance <br />
• Fudo Dachi - Immoveable stance <br />
• Neko Ashi
Dachi - Cat stance <br />
• Kosa Dachi - Cross legged stance <br />
• Sanchin Dachi -
Hourglass stance <br />
• Tsuru Dachi - Crane stance <br />
• Tai Sabaki - Body
Shifting <br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><em>Uke Waza - Blocking techniques</em></strong><br />
<strong><em></em></strong> </div>
<div class="widget-content">
<strong> </strong>• Age Uke - Rising block <br />
• Gedan Barai - Low block <br />
• Uchi
Uke - Inside block <br />
• Ude Uke - Outside block <br />
• Shuto Uke - Knife or
sword hand block <br />
• Morote Uke - Augnemted forearm block <br />
• Juji Uke - X
block or cross arm block <br />
• Kakiwake Uke - Wedge block <br />
• Haishu Uke -
Backhand block <br />
• Tettsui Uke - Bottom fist block <br />
• Nagashi Uke -
Sweeping block <br />
• Osae Uke - Pressing block <br />
• Sukui Uke - Scooping block
<br />
• Hasami Uke - Scissors block <br />
• Nidan Uke - Two level block <br />
• Yama
Uke - Mountain block <br />
• Mawashi Uke - Roundhouse block or circling block
<br />
<br />
<br />
<em><strong>Tsuki Waza - Punching techniques</strong></em><br />
<em> </em><br />
•
Oi Tsuki - Lunge punch <br />
• Gyaku Tsuki - Reverse punch <br />
• Tate Tsuki -
Vertical or straight punch <br />
• Kagi Tsuki - Hook punch <br />
• Age Tsuki -
Rising punch <br />
• Ura Tsuki - Close punch <br />
• Yama Tsuki - U-punch <br />
•
Morote Tsuki - Double punch <br />
<br />
<br />
<em><strong>Uchi or Ate Waza - Striking
Techniques</strong></em> <br />
<br />
• Shuto Uchi - Sword or knife hand strike <br />
•
Haito Uchi - Ridge hand strike <br />
• Nukite Uchi - Spear hand strike <br />
•
Uraken Uchi - Back fist strike <br />
• Tettsui Uchi - Bottom fist strike <br />
•
Haishu Uchi - Back hand strike <br />
• Teisho Uchi - Palm heel strike <br />
• Empi
Uchi - Elbow strike <br />
• Ippon Kai Ni Kansetsu Uchi - Second knuckle of index
finger strike <br />
• Nihon Dai Ni Kansetsu Uchi - Second knuckle of middle finger
strike <br />
• Kote Uchi - Forearm strike <br />
<br />
<br />
<em><strong>Keri Waza -
Kicking Techniques</strong></em><br />
<em><strong> </strong></em><br />
• Mae Geri - Front kick <br />
• Yoko Geri
- Side kick <br />
• Mawashi Geri - Round kick <br />
• Ushiro Geri - Back kick <br />
•
Hiza Geri - Knee kick <br />
• Fumikomi Geri - Stomping kick <br />
• Kaiten Geri -
Wheel kick <br />
• Kagi Geri - Hook kick <br />
• Mae Tobi Geri - Jump front kick
<br />
• Nidan Tobi Geri - Double jump front kick <br />
• Yoko Tobi Geri - Jump side
kick or flying side kick <br />
• Yoko Geri Keage - Side snap kick <br />
• Mikazuki
Geri - Crescent kick <br />
• Ushiro Tobi Geri - Jump back kick </div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
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