2011 Yokohama Dojo Evaluations Critique

MERRY CHRISTMAS !!! (^^)

Another beautiful day in Hawaii!

       As a Christmas Gift (?) to all the followers to this Blog I will be uploading some videos I made  for critiquing Yokohama Dojo's 2011 Promotion Evaluations. (^^) Unfortunately I am the only one in the videos, so it will not be aesthetically pleasing for Yachiyo fans. Soooory. She had to work overtime yesterday and couldn't make it the Dojo.

      Yesterday was my Dojo cleaning day . As it fell on Christmas Eve, the Pokemons did not have any practice, so it became a one man job. (^^)  It was a good time for me to reflect upon this year as I cleaned the equipment and mopped the floor. Health wise it was a very challenging year with the bout with severe pneumonia. The scars from where they inserted the draining tubes still shows quite clearly. I am grateful that I am on the path of recovery. It still will be a while before I am back up to par, but at my age there is no rush. Fufufu. I look foward to 2012 and the progress of the Dojo Pokemons! Mahalo to the Pokemons for a wonderful 2011.

      Back to the videos. As many of you are already aware, I am a klutz when it comes to uploading videos etc. I haven't found whether it is better to try uploading directly to this blog or via You Tube or Windows Live. Last night I tried both the Blog direct and You tube and here it is 0900 the next day and no uploads. Gahahahaha. Well I'll keep on trying. As we Hawaiians say "When can, can. When no can, no can. Take it easy, brah" It'll get uploaded bumbai.  There is no particular order in which they are uploaded. Wish me luck!

Started upload at 0920 (^^)... 0945 Still uploading...(- -;)...Good thing it's a Sunday (^^)...1015...Still waiting...Oooops a message "Sorry there was an error during upload. Gahahahahaha
Try again! 1620 hours, Christmas Day. (^^) Well, it was a no go! It is 2010 hours. Last attempt for the day.

One hour has passed. Time to shut it down. Perhaps tomorrow. Good night! (^^)

Trying again this morning. Gahahahaha (- -;) Time is clicking away again. It took 30+ minutes to upload on FB. Strange, never did have this problem before.....Hmmmmmm. Finaly an error sign.
Well, folks it looks like until I can get this figured out no videos.....Gomennasai.

Start at 1020 PM (^^)  1117 Nothing yet. Buhahaha One day later!

MELE KALIKIMAKA ! (^^)

メリークリスマス！

     My sincere wish that all my students and fellow martial artists will continue to presevere in their journeys and contribute to creating a more peaceful world. We may not be able to change a whole lot, but everything starts with one small step and the first step is to have peace in yourself. Only then can you have peace with the world.

Peace cannot be kept by force. It can only be achieved by understanding.

Albert Einstein

     Albert Einstein (14 March 1879 – 18 April 1955) was a German theoretical physicist who discovered the theory of general relativitiy effecting a revolution in physics. For this achievement, Einstein is often regarded as the father of modern physics. (from Wikipedia)

There is a magnet in your heart that will attract true friends. That magnet is unselfishness, thinking of others first; when you learn to live for others, they will live for you.

Paramahansa Yogananda

     Paramahansa Yogananda (1893–1952) is considered one of the preeminent spiritual figures of modern times. Author of the best-selling spiritual classic Autobiography of a Yogi, this beloved world teacher came to America in 1920 from his native India, and was the first great master of yoga to live and teach in the West for an extended period (more than 30 years). He is now widely recognized as the Father of Yoga in the West. (from Self Realization Felllowship Home Page)

自他共栄　Jita Kyoei

Jigoro Kano

     Kanō Jigorō (嘉納 治五郎, 28 October 1860 – 4 May 1938) was the founder of judo. Judo was the first Japanese martial art to gain widespread international recognition, and the first to become an official Olympic sport. Pedagogical innovations attributed to Kanō include the use of black and white belts, and the introduction of dan ranking to show the relative ranking between members of a martial art style. Well-known mottoes attributed to Kanō include "Maximum Efficiency with Minimum Effort" and "Mutual Welfare and Benefit." (from Wikipedia)

Yachiyo and I wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May your journey into your chosen martial art or for that matter any path you choose be productive and lead to peace.

OSU!

Tohoku

As most are aware, our Dojo has been supporting a program called Toys for Tohoku Kids. We have sent toys and clothing for kids that lost everything in the tsunami and earthquake on March 11. The road to recovery is long and sometimes we who are fortunate to live a normal life lose touch with the realities of those still suffering.
I have been following a blog by a nurse who volunteers to provide medical support to the survivors in Minami Rikuzen Cho. With Xmas approaching, I feel it is important to have as many people know of this blog. The most recent entries have not been translated yet as it had been done in the past. I hope that those of you who do not read Japanese will take some time and perhaps translate it with Google and read it.
http://blog.goo.ne.jp/flower-wing
English site of previous entries: http://jkts-english.blogspot.com/
Aloha and thank you.

An interesting article



An interesting article I wanted to share with my students and friends.

http://www.samharris.org/blog/item/the-truth-about-violence/

HAPPY THANKSGIVING (^^)

ALOHA AND HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
感謝際おめでとう！

　　It's been a while since I last posted. This month I am combining this blog with my Dojo Blog to cut down on the time I sit in front of this computer. I haven't been able to upload videos for some time. It is time to spend some $$ on a new one. (- -;) Oh well, I think I will just make it an early birthday present to myself! (^^) Hope to get back on track with the videos.

　　"We are wrapped up in layers of ego including our own individual egos, the egos of our national identities, and so on. To the extent that we let go of ego, the conflicts that surround us can be alleviated. Then a profound sense of loving compassion for others will well up within us. This  Zen teaching of being mu is my message to people of the 21st century."

Keido Fukushima, Head abbot of Tofuku-ji.

     What is the purpose of practicing karate at Kimura Dojo? (^^) Most of you Pokemons (a nickname I put on all my peewee karate kids) would probably answer; 1. Daddy and Mommy signed me up; 2. It’s kind of fun; 3. My friend was taking it to name a few. All are correct as far as I’m concerned. But there is one point that I would like to have all the Pokemons understand. I would not be exaggerating in saying it is the sole purpose of sharing my Budo experiences. 

     The core of my teaching lies in the Kanji Bu 武。To stop two halberds (conflict), 二つの矛を止める。Very simply put, Budo is meant to develop individuals who can stop conflict. Most conflicts are born out of egos. By training, we learn to control our negative egos. We learn to understand differences among people and culture and respect each other. If we learn to understand ourselves and others, conflict naturally diminishes. Conflicts arise in our daily lives. It is how we react to it that controls the severity of the conflict.   

     Jita Kyoei 自他共栄、Kano Sensei’s famous words. Together, we flourish. I hope that the Pokemons will someday understand and follow the path of peace.

 Peace comes from within.

MAKIKI DOJO BULLETIN

Yokohama Dojo is having its annual promotion this month. Like Makiki,  there is only one promotion a year. Both Dojos have only one hour per session once a week. Of course an addtional half hour is provided for those who want compete or just do more. The kids can also practice with the adults. But basically, most kids spend one hour per session. The once a year promotion is based on this. Four hours a practice per month. With holidays and what not it comes up to an average of 48 hours per year. How much progress should we expect? (^^)

「力を量りてこれを任じ、才を度りてこれを処し、その能くせざる所ば、彊いて為さしめず」

量力而任之、度才而処之、其所不能、不今日彊使菜為

One should always consider a person’s capabilities and make effective use it. It is not prudent to force someone beyond his capabilities.
The above quote is from 文章軌範Bunshokihan, (1226-1289) is a seven volume compilation of various authors.  Aside from two chapters by Touenmei 陶淵明and Shokatsuryo諸葛亮、the bulk is from writings of Kanyuu and Tousou’s renown literary families

     Congratulations to David on his successful black belt testing! Tamura Sensei (Gitokukai Hawaii) as well as your parents must be very proud of you! Good luck on your next tournament.

Welcome to Daiki, our newest member!

     Before we know it Xmas will be upon us! I need to get a group photo to use as a Xmas card to send to the Tohoku kids. I will be getting the gifts together and shipping it out first week of December so I will be taking the picture and video on November 26th! If you cannot make it that day,  If you can lend me a photo of your child I can copy and paste on the Xmas card (just like in school albums for absent kids). This will be the first Xmas without their parents for some of the Tohoku kids and It would be nice to let them know that we in Hawaii are thinking of them!

Yoroshiku onegaishimasu! (^^)

    The kids did very well this past practice! (^^) Little by little they all are beginning to look like "mame Budokas" 豆武道家. Parents can be proud of them! We will continue to slowly incorporate kumite (sparring) into their curriculum. Of course with safety as a priority.  The main topic fot rest of the year is for them to get comfortable with the "Negotiation stance (対応の構え）which is the core of our training.

Very good Nego Stance! (^^)

YOKOHAMA DOJO BULLETIN

     横浜は今月が審査ですね。皆、日頃の努力を発揮して頑張って下さい。目線、姿勢、集中力をしっかり持つ事が大事です。審査のビデオを楽しみにしています。アメリカでは２４日が感謝際の日です。横浜道場の子達はマキキ道場同様に何時もサポートしてくれている家族、先生、友人達に感謝をしましょう。人間は一人で成長しません。人の助けがあって育っていくのです。空手の稽古も先生、先輩、同輩がいてこそ自分が進歩するのです。だから何時でも感謝の心をもって頑張りましょう。押忍！来年の春頃又皆と稽古が出来るように頑張っています。

Aloha Rei (^^)

From L to R, Mrs. Tamura, Tamura Sensei, Rei, Isabelle, Steve, Yachiyo

    Last night, after the usual Pokemon practice,  was an impromtu session ala Kyokushin Style with Rei and some members from Gitokukai Dojo. Rei was in Hawaii studying English and had recently joined Gitokukai on his first experience with Karate. A very conscientious student who practicec diligently. He entered and placed in his first karate tournament just about a month or so ago. We will all miss his smile and energy.

   I hope that he will find a Dojo in Japan to continue his training. 継続は力なり。Strength through Perserverence. Best of luck to Rei! OSU!



We're back! (^^)

Hmmmm, time for One Point Lessons!

http://youtu.be/ku3aV2OijaI

Kihon Jodan Uke

Been away from the video camera for a while. Well, we're back. I've decided to start a series of Kihon  in line with the curriculum of Kimura Dojo. The recent bout with pneumonia has really limited my ability to breathe under heavy physical activity. It is expected to take at leasrt 6 months for my lungs to return to "normal". As such I want to leave my Shinhandai, Shidoins and students with a video guide on the principles of the Kimura Dojo curriculum. If it was 360 yen per dollar I would be flying to Japan on a quarterly basis. Gahahahaha (^^) But alas, no relief in sight.

For those watching the videos, please remember it is on our Kihon and its principles. Naturally Kumite and Self Defense maai is different. Additional vidoes will be made adressing the implementation of Kihon in Self Defense and Kumite. Meanwhile enjoy the video. None of the Vidoes are made with lengthly rehersals and are made on the spot. I think that it more realistic. If your kihon doesn't work "on the spot" then you're in trouble. (^^)

OSU!押忍！

Shihan Lowe Memorial Practice

Some photos from the Memorial Keiko held at Ala Moana Beach Park on Saturday morning, September 1,  2011.  Tony and William, that's right next to the same area we practiced at!

The weather was beautiful and prefect for the session.

 Aloha Shihan Lowe. Osu!

Mokuso

Combinations

Canada, Australia and Hawaii participants

Hawaii Group

Shihans with Babara Lowe

Aloha Shihan Lowe, OSU

      Yachiyo and I attended Shihan Lowe's funeral today. It was very moving ceremony with many well known karatekas in attendance. The Canadian delegation in their bright red blazers, the Hawaii Shihans and Senseis in their dark blue blazers stood out making the ceremony special Kyokushin style.



Many local Karate Senseis were here to say theor farewells. Shihan Correigal from Canada gave a moving tribute to Shihan Lowe and family members gave insight to Shihan Lowe as a loving and caring husband and parent.  Michael, Shihan Lowe's son, placed his father's black belt on his casket.
       The Burial Service was held at Nuuanu Mortuary and Gardens under the bright Hawaiian sun. It was closed with Matsui Kancho leading all in a Chudan Tsuki farewell.
        Shihan Lowe is now with Oyama Sosai and looking over Kyokushinkai's future.

Aloha Shihan Lowe.... OSU!

PC Problems

        SORRY FOLKS, HAVING PROBLEMS UPLOADING MY VIDEOS! PLEASE BE PATIENT WHILE THIS NON-GEEK TRIES TO GET THE PC FIXED. I KEEP GETTING THIS SILVERLIGHT MESSAGE WHICH FREEZES THE COMPUTER. GAAAAH! PROBABLY HAD SOMETHING TO DO WITH NETFLIX. 

      MEANWHILE, PLEASE ENJOY THE FOLLOWING ARTICLE. (^^)

http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fpmc%2Farticles%2FPMC3158382%2F&h=xAQBJYxT9AQCC-D0sBietHlluWd1rt0C2V4-CdHS2al6iXA

Recommended Reading

      I came across this article in the Karate Thoughts blog by Charles Goodin.  A very good and inspiring article which I recommend to all. Enjoy (^^)
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3158382/

Update (^^)

(^^) Aloha everyone! It has been awhile since I last posted. We just had our annual promotion test yesterday. I had the video camera all set up but.........forgot to push the record button. Oh well,
The kids and mommies all did well. We will passing out new belts at the next class.
It seems as though both Yachiyo and I have caught a cold. With my recent pneumonia episode, I really need to make sure it doesn't get worse! Should be back to normal next weekend with the Monthly newsletter and One Point Lessons.

OSU!

Sorry, no One Point Lesson this week.

Had to attend wife's awards ceremony tonight. No time to do a video.
奥方の表彰式のためワンポイントレッスンは出来ませんでした！

This week's One Point Lesson (^^)

     Yachiyo was able to finish work in time to make it to practice!! (^^) Tonight we took the opening movements of Saifa aka Saiha from Goju Kai and Kyokushin and compared them. Naturally depending on the movement the application changes.

First, the opening movements of Saiha by Tamura Sensei and Yachiyo

Goju Kai's basic application of the movement by Tamura Sensei.

Kyokushin applicaiton by Yachiyo

     One of the important things we all learn from doing the applications of the Katas are that depending on the angle, positioning and opponent's attack, the movement may not work as planned. (^^) It is imperative in your training to try out the various angles and attacks and see if the movement is applicable. Just a change in grip can greatly affect the waza/technique.

     Also remember to include non-complaint drills to the movements so that we do not get fooled with our own effectiveness of the waza. Compliant drills have its purpose and is an important step in learning the waza and application of movements and should not be left out of the training program.

Side kick drill

       It is important that this drill is done slowly so that you can work on your balance, muscle control and accuracy of your side kick. The same drill can be done with all othe kicks. Caution: when you do the applicaton of the side kick defense against the gedan mawashi, be rest assured your thighs will be hurting from the impact. Be prepared for the pain. Aginst a high mawashigeria side kick to the stomach is effective.

A good speed reaction drill also. The key is to counter when the attacker raises his knee to chamber.

Have fun training! OSU!

This week's One Point Lessons (^^)

      I fired Yachi as photographer after last week's debacle. (^^) Lesson learned. Don't let someone else do things you can do yourself. Gahahahaha
     The first OPL is directed towards beginners. It is a Ido Drill using Shikodachi and Zenkutsu dachi. The primary focus is in the hip movement. Of course other Kihon movements such as Hikite and proper alignment of the stance is also emphasized. Mahalo to Sensei Tamura and his student Rei for their assistance.

    The second OPL is for advanced Students. Tamura Sensei performs Shisochin. The basic Bunkai from the Kata is the elbow joint break. It is done in the tradaitional (classical) format as well as in Shinzentai format drill.  Included at the end of the video is a basic use of Koken aka Chicken Beak against a thrust and wrist grab.

         Please remember that there are other applications for the waza. The important thing to think about is "why Shikodachi and the dropping of the hips" and also "why go forward" in reacting to an attack. By undestanding the "whys" I believe it makes your Kata better and not as Oyama Sosai used to say "a dance".

The Myth of Kihon 基本幻論 (Tongue in cheek version)

   

The other day Tamura Sensei and I were discussing competition karate and how it really doesn't resemble any of the kihons and most of time goes against the grain of theories espoused in kihon. Then what is Kihon?  A classic example is the Zenkutudachi, we are taught from the beginning the the rear heel has to be flat on the ground, Don't raise the heel, you'll lose the power and tension for propelling yourself forward.
Hmmmm. Then in the shiais, what do we see? A lot of bouncing around and heels off the ground. What gives? (^^)  How many fighters do we see in Full Contact fight in zenkutudachi? Why bother with Zenkutudachi, except for Kata purposes? Why not do kihon in kumitedachi? What is the purpose of teaching certain methdology only to throw it out the window when it comes to fighting? Builds up power, balance,etc.? Isn't it quicker with High Impact Interval training and other types of modern sports training? Hmmmmm.
    The partial conclusion we came upon was that kihon and competition karate are two separate animals.
An interesting article was in the July issue of  JKF magazine. The current Kata champs are Italians (team and individual). They DO NOT DO Kihon as we know it. NO stationary Kihon, NO Ido Kihon! They go straight into movement activities, not necessarily "pure karate" movements. Then into Kata and even then they skip the Heian series completely!  What happened to the theory that Kihon was the base for Karate, the progression of Sonoba Kihon, Ido Kihon, Kata and Kumite? Is the traditional way of doing Kihon unnecessary? The Italians clearly separated classical karate with competitive karate. According to the article the Italians do honor and follow the traditional karate values as well. So its not like they threw everything aside for competition's sake.
      I can also say that we are taught that the traditional methods build up the strong base required to move up the ladder so to speak and perhaps it is true. At least I have been brought up with that thought. Do I think different now? Hmmmm.  (- -) Should I change the kihon curriculum to Kumite Dachi and concentrate on the jab, cross, hook and upper cut much like Daidojuku aka Kudo? I can still teach the use of the hips and shifting of the body weight so that it adds power to the punches.  I can teach kicks from the the kumite dachi as well, why waste time in the traditional Kyokushin style of holding the belt at the side or front? Now, rest assured, there is a theory behind holding the belt during kihon. But if I were to follow the Italians footsteps, why bother? Now we must also remember the article was just a small part of their training and it is based on competition.
      I have a long Judo background. What is Judo Kihon? Kuzushi, Tsukuri, Kake and Nage. Most Judo programs progress from Uchikomi, Nagekomi to Randori (Sparring, for lack of a better word) In all phases, the actual movements of the throws are done. In  my opinion, there in lies the difference in Karate Kihon and Judo. Whether it is in a Shiai or Kihon the basic movement and applications are the same. Sure there a variations but the basic theories of Kuzushi, Tsukuri, Kake and Nage remains in the application. At least not as different as in Karate.  So being a Devil's advocate, why isn't Karate the same? I know I am over simplifying the issues here. (^^) One reason I can think of is that in Judo you are always, aside from grip battles, hanging on to your opponent. You have constant contact so the applications do not change when executing waza. I hope that the readers get a feel for what I am writing. 
   Now the big question.  Am I going to change Kimura Dojo's training methodology? I doubt it. I like the way I do things right now. I may borrow some ideas to keep the training varied. But the traditional kihon will stay. After all, it has served me well all these years. (^^)



Judo's Uchikomi Practice


Enjoy some good Competition!

I would guess that Karate's Yakusoku Ippon Kumite would be the closest to Judo's uchikomi.In the sense that the Uke does not resist.

Some hard hitting competition.

How did you learn Kyokushin Kanku Kata?

Konnichiwa Roshiichi:

I have been working on the Kyokushin version of Kanku. My question was about the hand that does the kake uke towards the end of the Kyokushin Kanku kata. Is the kake uke done with the same hand or the opposite hand that is doing the yon nukite? I learned it with the opposite hand. Although I have also noticed a couple of other small differences, in other versions of kanku. For example the number of moroashi dachi/shuto gedan berai, might also call them age ushiro geri/shuto gedan berai moves that are done? I learned the kata with 3 steps up, 3 down. I know that the kata came from the Shotokan Kanku dai kata, but I have to say that the Kyokushin version is far from its parent kata. What would Funakoshi, Sensei and Oyama, Sosai say?

I have seen 3 steps up 3 steps down, opposite hand for yon nukite.

(Mastushima, Shihan) IKO Mastushima.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wAJH_I5LWEA

I´ve seen 3 up, 4 down, same hand for yon nukite IKO1 (Matsui, Shihan) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QztMXiUtuF8&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3mw6hZcz5B0&feature=related

and 4 up, 4 down, opposite hand http://www.youtube.com/watch?gl=GB&hl=en-GB&v=U5YCzl7Ip_g WKO Shin Kyokushin (Midori, Shihan)

Post Training in New York

Suki and I were at my sister's home this weekend after training. Many of the kids and Ladies from bootcamp were there. It was a great time...The way of Jita Kyoei showed strong and true this month in New York. Together we morned the lost of a great friend, and we learned of new challenges to your training. We also have gained three new members. Through it all there was each other, and still a better understanding of "mutual welfare and benefit". I often train with something from my time in Hawaii, and today it was the shirt that Suki is covering.

I have been working on Kyokushin's Kanku dai Kata for about three weeks personally, and in Vermont we learned a kata new to me called Sushi no Kon kata, we are studing the Matayoshi school of Kobudo. I sure am a white belt in Kobudo. If you are interested, there is a nice website for: Matayoshi Kobudo.

Gomen nasai! No One Point this weekend (**#)

Tamura Sensei and I did an awesome performance tonight. Definitely an Oscar winner for Best Documentary. Alas, the photographer pushed the wrong button and all that was recorded was the conversation that took place after the demonstration! So sorry!  Now it is time for some domestic discussion.

田村先生と二人で最高の演技を今夜した。絶対にドキュメント部門でオスカー物。

しかし、しかしである、録画担当が作動を間違えたので録画せきたのは演舞後の会話だけ。誠にすみません。これから夫婦会議。。。。。。。

Me: Whachha mean the button was green! Red is Record!!!
僕：なにがボタンが緑だっただよ！赤が録画だろうが！！

Wife: Green is always "Go" and Red is always "Stop"! Not my fault the video camera is backwards!

妻：緑はいつも「ゴー」で赤はいつも「止まれ」 でしょう！カメラが逆なのは私のせいじゃないわよ！

Me: How about a roundhouse kick into your noggin! Eh!

僕：何ー！！上段回し蹴りでも叩き込もうか！おら！

Wife: Fufu. How can you say that!You can't lift your leg that high!

妻：ふふ。足上がらないのによく言うわ！

Me: ..............................................................

僕：。。。。。。。。。。。

GOOD NIGHT! OSU!

Can't get the Karate out of me (^^)

     Today's practice was cancelled due to a temple function. But that didn't get karate out of my system. (^^)   So after getting chores done,(the fate of a house husband)  decided to do the usual one point lessons. Unfortunately, there was no partner to work with so it became a one man show.
Sorry, Tony,  the koken and uchiuke applications have to wait until next week.

There is a purpose and reason for why things are done a certain way.

       It may not be the same with other Dojos, but this is the way that is done at Kimura Dojo. (^^)

If it makes sense to you, fine. If not, no big deal. "Ain't no big thing, brah" as we say in Hawaii.

Junin Toiro (or Jusshoku) Ten people, ten colors.

 

This is what happens on a rainy day and practice has been canceled! (^^)

The first Bon Dance I went to for the season.

     It was great to see many different people of various nationalities enjoying dancing around the yagura. Missed out on the munchies, the line was toooooooo long. The music elevates the spirit for sure.

Why can't all of the world be happy together and sharing culture? At least martial arts is shared throughout the world (albeit, problems do exist as well). One step at a time.