Seibukan Winter Training 2010
Well last weekend was an Awesome time up in Atlanta Ga. April 16-18th was the annual Seibukan Winter Training Camp and what a great experience it was. With close to 100 participants from all over the U.S., one can see the true value of holding these annual events. Every year I attend, we as instructors, learn and benefit so much from these events, and it allows us to continue to grow and evolve in our Karate training. This years main focus was on Renzoku Kumite and Ikkyo No Renshu.
Flowing from one technique to another
So much to practice !
Renzoku Kumite, or continuous attack, is a key element to Seibukan training. These two man drills, as taught by Zempo Shimabukuro use multiple attacks, defenses, counter attacks, and counter defenses between training partners.
The main focus of the drill is to begin developing the ability for the student to transition from defense to offense in the moment that a continuous attack cannot be interrupted or eliminated.
By utilizing these two man set drills, the karateka learns to develop and sense or “flow” that enables an “instinctive” action without conscious thought.
Learning to change on the "fly"
These pre arranged sets for Renzoku Kumite are based on the traditional Okinawan Kata movements, or as the students advance, can be based literally on ANY particular offensive or defensive sequences that the individual student has learned and feels comfortable doing.
One of the most important and misunderstood concepts behind Traditional Karate Kihon training, is that repetition builds muscle memory, and muscle memory builds reflexive response. And reflexive response is the path to “Mu Shin” or “No Mind” . Much more on this subject to come.
On top of all the drills and Valuable Oral presentations by Sensei Dan Smith, 9th Dan and 1 of only 2 9th Dans ever presented to a foreigner on Okinawa, testing and a beautiful awards banquet and ceremony was conducted Saturday night. A few Senior Seibukan Members were honored and entered the Seibukan Hall of Fame.
Smith Sensei and I after Black Belt Promotions
I would also like to take the time to thank my wonderful family for all the support that they have shown me over the last 10 years. Without their blessings and support, none of these things would have ever happened, and Ocala Karate & Fitness would never have been possible. They are my world.
This is my motivation!