A simple double punch, double step combination was practised initially. Once a level of competence was achieved by everyone in the class, the combination was extended to include an elbow strike. So three blows delivered in quick succession: two with the fists; one with the elbow. The complete combination was thereafter practised with a partner.
A front pushing kick, mae geri kekome, was then practised and used as the stimulus for an evasion drill using the front foot to step out of the line of the kick; first to the left with an elbow counter, then to the right with a punch counter. The punch counter was delivered from an unorthodox position which felt awkward initially, precisely because it was unorthodox!
The lion’s share of our karate training tends to utilise fairly mainstream postures and positions. All usually have a name and are instantly recognisable. These positions are valid because they can enhance our combat ability; but they should not be restrictive strait jackets! Being free to modify conventional postures and techniques is crucial and well worth practising. It’s challenging enough dealing with an unorthodox opponent in the dojo or on the competition mat, and it goes without saying that there’s precious little orthodox or conventional about an attacker on the street. We need to be able to deal with both!
The class concluded with kata. Black belts performed Nijushiho whilst lower grades performed a Heian kata of their choice.
13 members trained in the session: Noel Henderson; Bob Dainty; Becky Cassapi; Alex Hull; Steve Cassapi; Chris Webb; Darren Cockburn; Audrius Mikalauscas; Kerry Lee; Charlotte Bonardi; Caroline Todd; Steve Hull; Teddie Henderson.
SOUTH NOTTS KARATE 