Mushin Karate Course in Sally Gardens Community Centre

Another course was organised for Thursday 23rd March 2007 for those who were invited to participate in their gradings. Although it was open to all members of the association, it was mostly those who were wanting to participate in their gradings who turned up.

On the night we covered most of the syllabus that everyone will be doing for their assessments but there was also some pragmatic aspects of the moves that was being practiced to help crystallize the key principles and concepts that were discussed.

The first hour was devoted to basics and combinations with the emphasis on perfection of technique and attention to detail. The second hour was devoted to both blocks and kata – here, we were trying to convey the message that zanshin, distance, timing, co-ordination are important aspects when it comes to the blocks.

Kata, was then practiced. We at Mushin adhere to the 4 stage approach to kata practice. These are:

1. Solo practice – trying to perfect the individual moves and make each one better than the rest
2. Bunkai – the physical application of the moves of the kata
3. Adapt and vary – understanding the principles and concepts so that you can adapt and vary
4. Kata based sparring – making it live.

The importance of stance was discussed, not only for the aesthetic appeal of the kata and for good form but also for its pragmatic effectiveness in real combat.

Time was quickly up and it was time for the course to end. All in all a good nights training was had and hopefully everyone would have come away from the night having learned something.

The grading is planned for Thursday 26th April 2007 in Sally Gardens Community Centre from 7-9 p.m.