Student Training

The Dojo

Besides techniques and terminology, there are many other things which the beginner must learn. The most important is that the Karate Dojo (or Hall) is a place for culture, and one must, therefore, compose himself and behave seriously. Both at the time of practice and during the match one must apply the fullest energy to the exercise. Even in repose, one must maintain a good deportment and be attentive to others who are exercising, and by watching them try to learn some lessons which are helpful for improving oneself. The origin of the name Dojo is found in Buddhism, and means Meditation Hall. The Dojo must, therefore, be kept as clean as possible, and within it there should be that solemn atmosphere which ought to prevail in every place of worship or mental training.

Kihon

- Basics
Each and every student will learn and master the basics of Ryu-Kyu Karate. These techniques are taught to improve strength, speed, balance, and flexability. All students should understand that the education of these techniques are for defense only. Students learn proper form and understanding of each technique through repetition and practical application.

Kata

- Forms
The Katas (formal exercises), are a series of blocking, punching, kicking, and striking techniques performed in a set sequence. The Katas always start and finish with a bow. This is to put the person in a serious state of mind so he can concentrate completely on the Kata. For each rank in Karate you must learn certain Katas; the higher the rank, the more difficult and complex is the Kata. Until recent years when sport Karate was developed, the only way of practicing Karate, aside from demonstrations of technique and strength such as breaking tests, was through the Kata. The Katas train you to fight several opponents from different directions. They enable you to develop your form, speed, coordination, balance and power while shifting from one stance to another. Unlike kumite which requires occasional sacrifice of precision for effective defense, Katas do not. In the ShorinRyu system, Kata is the superior training method. When you are tested on your Katas for promotion many factors are taken into consideration, such as the perfection of the Kata as a whole, and performance of the individual techniques within the Kata. Also considered are the speed, rhythm, vigor, and power of the performance together with the attitude of the performer. Finally the Katas start and end on the same spot.

Kumite

- Sparing
Kumite, (sparing) is a recent innovation of Okinawa. Before 1940 there was nothing in Karate to warrant its being called a sport. After much experimenting a way was devised to hold matches without anyone being injured. Kumite is a match of workout between two people to develop and demonstrate responsiveness and skill in either a prearranged or freestyle manner. Each contestant must both attack and defend while trying to deliver a well focused punch, kick or strike to the opponent's vital areas. The blows must be stopped just short of their destinations where if extended would have hit the opponent. To forceably strike an opponent in Kumite is strictly forbidden. The Kumite starts and ends with the opponents bowing to each other as a sign of mutual respect. Sparing gear and safety gear is supplied if needed. It is encouraged to buy your own since gear, such as head or mouth pieces are specialized.

Tournaments

There are times when the class will train for a tournament. We hold our students to the highest standards when it comes to tournaments. First and foremost you are representing your school and yourself, it is extremely important that students conduct themselves with respect. Instructors work heavily with students wishing to participate, in order to prepare them for the events, however, this is not the primary focus of the class. While we encourage students to participate in tournaments it is not a requirement.

Weapons

At higher ranks, students will be taught how to use a Bo Staff and will learn several kata. The primary focus in weapons training is on Bo. There will be opportunities to learn other weapons including, Sai, Bo, and Sword. One of our Sensei's teaches Iai-do sword techniques after practice on Wednesday nights.