The first session focussed on refining the core grading syllabus techniques and principles. In actual fact there were four sessions running concurrently to reflect the make-up of the class in terms of grade and expertise. In other words the brown and black belts were working on completely different material to the white belts at the other end of the dojo. To me this makes sense.
Significant progress was made in kihon and kata; the kumite dimension was added in the second session.
The 7pm class began with one (long!) round of skipping during which all the different techniques we have been working on recently were brought into play. We then dissected the 1st dan, 2nd dan and 3rd dan combinations and drilled them consecutively. This took everyone into the challenging and uncomfortable anaerobic zone. I know that because when those delightful words, “just one more“, were uttered, there was a discernible girding of loins and a booming “OSS ” by way of response!
We then worked on jiue ippon kumite. Black belts used any five unannounced attacks; brown belts the six standard attacks. All used any block and counter attack when defending. One idea that emerged was the physical demeanour and attitude of the attacker, post attack, pre-counter, and indeed post counter: stoicism! No flinching, cowering or other ‘lilly livered’ behaviour allowed! Absorb the opponent’s counter attack and remain impassive – even if it hurt.
We then worked on two of the required katas for 2nd dan: Enpi and Hangetsu. Some of the class were at the initial stage of trying to memorise the sequences of moves, others were taking their understanding to a higher level. Towards the end of the class we considered an enormously simple and gloriously effective application of the opening move in Enpi. It’s a very real and adaptable ground fighting tool and can also be used as a two person conditioning exercise; the person being conditioned being the one on the receiving end of course!
15 members trained in the 6.15pm session: Jacob Gracey; Iona Dennis; Willy Astleigh; Izzy Ponsonby; George Coates; Jonathan Osborne; Paul Osborne; Frank Dennis; Gregory Mills; Anthony Mills; Harry Heather; Alex Heather; Kerry Lee; Myles Ponsonby; Gareth Thomas.
Assistant instructor: Becky Cassapi.
8 members trained in the 7pm session: Becky Cassapi; Ryan Skilton; Darren Cockburn; Oliver Wood; Tom Ludlow; Charlotte Bonardi; Kerry Lee; Gareth Thomas.
SOUTH NOTTS KARATE 