The subsequent two blog posting’s highlight my training experience at the WTKO summer camp. The proceeding words are a poor representation of the actual “experience“. Their is no duplicate for the actual sensations that one is exposed to during training. Ichigo Ichie is a Japanese phrase that poetically translates to “each moment only once“. Although the moment is lost forever, from the detailed journal that I keep, reflection is possible.
Event: 2007 WTKO summer camp
Date: July 7th and 8th-2007
Location: WTKO Honbu Dojo (#206 east 63rd street-New York City)
July 7th-2007
Class #1: 11:30 to 1:00 (Sensei Richard Amos, 6th Dan)
The essential theme that consumed the entire class began with the opening technique, Choku Zuki or straight punch. Amos Sensei critiqued the attendees that we must have the ability to “use” our Karate. The essential elements that were stressed:
1. Prepare quickly in all techniques.
2. Think of the beginning and not just the end.
3. All techniques are alive from the beginning.
Choku Zuki, Age, Soto, Uchi, and Gedan Uke were practiced from forward and backward. Emphasis was placed on the compressive (starting in a “half way” prepared position), and exploding into the technique.
Bassai Dai was studied to conclude the training. The connection of the Waki no Shita (arm pits), and Uchi Momo (inner thighs) were stressed.
Note: The elements of this one class, has been the central theme of my own personal training for over 2 year’s now.
Class #2: 3:00 to 4:30 (Sensei John Mullin, 7th Dan)
Kizami Zuki and Gyaku Zuki combined with Yori Ashi (sliding of both feet).
Heian Shodan and Jion were studied in detail. Emphasis was placed on rotating on the heel during all backward turns. This “activates” the Uchi Momo (inner thighs).
Note: I make it a habit to monitor my weight before and after training session’s when ever possible. After a light lunch and plenty of fluids to rehydrate my weight was 8 pounds lighter than before the above two classes began.
July 8th-2007
Class #3: 9:30 to 11:00 (Sensei Fred Serrichio, 7th Dan)
Light and relaxed circular motions against partners.
Note: Serrichio Sensei has experience training in Aikido. Advanced aspects of Irimi (to enter your opponents space), and Kokyu (breathing) were incorporated.
Class #4: 11:00 to 12:30 (Sensei Richard Amos, 6th Dan)
Oi Zuki (stepping punch) training. Various exercises were practiced with a partner to isolate and correct the following:
1. A punching arm that is connected to the body.
2. Moving from the center.
3. Driving leg.
4. The punching / pulling hand in motion throughout the step.
Doryoku,
Scott
Related posts:
- 2008 WTKO Summer Camp (part 3 of 3)
- WTKO Summer Camp (part 1 of 3)
- Kenshusei Report (part 1 of 4)
- Explanation of posting delays
- “Shotokan Mastery” by Sensei Richard Amos
