Written by Sensei Mitch on March 3, 2023
One Thumb Fist
Technique . Training notesWatch in awe as Mas Oyama demonstrates the devastating one thumb fist technique. This move is particularly effective when aimed at pressure points such as the temple, medulla oblongata or spinal cord, by striking from the opponent’s blind spot at a close distance. The perfect target areas are the temporal region and occipital region at
Written by Sensei Mitch on April 3, 2022
Amazing Focused Skill
For Kids . Styles . TechniqueThis young man has a bright future ahead of him.. His focus and technique is amazing given his young age. Most people forget of the great accomplishments children are capable of if excellence is demanded in a healthy way. The higher we set the bar the higher our youth will achieve. To many prescribe to
Written by Sensei Mitch on March 22, 2022
Inside Roundhouse – The Billy Jack Kick
Karate . Technique . Training notes . VideoDue to a recent video clip posted on reddit I thought I’d create this post to discuss this particular kick, the inside roundhouse kick: This young woman did a great job demonstrating this kick, especially the slow down. This is a Kyokushin Karate Kick called “Jodan Uchi Haisoku Geri” or move descriptively as a “High
Written by Sensei Mitch on March 8, 2022
Tameshiwari Brick Breaking Made Easy
Karate . Technique . Training notesTips for breaking bricks ( Tameshiwari ) as described and demonstrated by Mas Oyama. Prepare a hard base, Hold a brick on it (as shown), Lay a folded washcloth under the hand. Hold the brick with a hand sword Place a folded washcloth on top of the brick (as shown) Hit the brick with a
Written by Sensei Mitch on March 5, 2022
Musubi Dachi Stance
Karate . Technique . Training notesFormally known as Musubi Dachi, this stance is analogous to a soldier standing at attention. This is the stance you assume before bowing and at beginning/end most Katas or formal routines. For my students I refer to is as the Start Position, once in this position, you are signalling you have completed and are ready
Written by Sensei Mitch on February 5, 2022
The Perfect Flying Kick
Fitness . Karate . State of Mind . Styles . Technique . Training notesCapturing the Perfect Flying Kick on film is no easy task without using time capture devices (like most phones these days!) That said there still are not many pictures because Perfect form is not that common, because these kicks require substantial practice. In seeking to write this article I found the following photo and thought
Written by Sensei Mitch on January 14, 2022
The Importance of Stretching
Articles of Interest . Fitness . Karate . Technique . Training notesBy Sensei Mitch Take this article for what it is, layman’s advice. All I know about stretching I have learned from reading and trail and error, no formal courses, no certificates, just personal experience and written material. With that said, read on at your own risk (I had to say that;). Why do we stretch?
Written by Sensei Mitch on January 10, 2022
KATA: What is it?
Styles . Technique . Training notesBy Sensei Mitch Kata is a formal karate exercise. The sequence of movements of a Kata consist of logical combinations of the three fundamental movements (blocks, hand strikes and kicks). The Kata represents an imaginary battle with invisible foes. Katas are designed to help the student perfect their techniques while strengthening their timing, coordination and
Written by Sensei Mitch on April 6, 2021
Sure Footing
Self-Defense . Technique . Training notesUnderstanding Body Mechanics is a powerful thing. Want to Impress Your Friends? Next time you are at a party, try this trick: Have a person hold one arm straight out to the side, palm down, and instruct him to maintain this position. Then place two fingers on his wrist and push down. They will resist
Written by Sensei Mitch on March 7, 2014
Kyokushin: Topic Katas
Karate . Styles . TechniqueKyokushin Kata The word ‘Kata’ means shape or pattern. The ‘Kanji’ Kata is composed of the following characters: Katachi Katachi meaning “shape” or “pattern”; Kai Kai means “cutting”; Tsuchi Tsuchi meaning “Earth” or “Soul”. Literally translated , kata means “shape which cuts the earth.” Sounds intimidating and some of them can be!
