An electric atmosphere pervaded the dojo at the Meadowside Leisure Centre in Burton on Trent, and provided the back drop to a ‘full on’ session with non-stop action from the off!
The basics were demanding with everyone giving of their best in terms of quality of technique and attitude. This set the standard for the kumite practise which followed. We worked on explosive punching techniques, first to a compliant partner, and thereafter in competitive jiue ippon kumite. With every partner change a new challenge was presented and with it the need to lift both body and spirit to a higher level. With energy sapping away the natural tendency is for the spirit to weaken – but of course anybody can stop and say, “I give in”. That’s easy. The harder option, the only real option, is to fight on!
During the course of the day’s training we covered five katas in glorious detail; vital training for anyone taking their practice of karate seriously. As is customary all the katas studied are eventually performed with full power and full intensity at the end of the session to draw matters to a conclusion. Let me simply say this: all those who fully experienced those final minutes through total physical and mental immersion will know what a privilege it was!
SOUTH NOTTS KARATE 