In 2004, we in Canada plan to practise what we learned in 2003. Last October, we were visited by Sakamoto-Sensei, accompanied by his students Sakai-Shihan and Mr. Nishizaka, for a series of clinics in Ontario. The week of training gave us enough to work on for a long time to come. The clinics were attended…
The following document, translated by Mario McKenna, was written by Sakamoto-Sensei to North American Ryusei instructors before he conducted his clinics last October. Within Ryusei Karatedo system, kata, and techniques we can see the expression of ‘keii’ (literally ‘form and intention). Regarding keii, when performing [kata] three years ago I said: “There are thousands of…
Ukemi (breakfall)—how should it be used and what is its real importance to karate practice? Ever since I started training over 22 years ago, I have done ukemi. I was always fascinated by breakfalls, but I did not until recently understand the role that ukemi can and should play in our training. In my practice,…
What is the purpose of kata? Many students ask this question. A kata is a series of linked techniques in which a number of different things are accomplished. Here are some points to consider: Kata are designed to stimulate your reflexes and to strengthen the body. Each kata works different muscles and puts the body…