Typical Lesson
Opening Formalities
Students will kneel with the sensei, meditate and bow paying respect to the teacher and other students.
Stretching and Warm Up
Up to 15 minutes depending on the flexibility of the class, light stretching and joint mobilization is done to prepare the body for the techniques used in class.
Basic Techniques
Punching
Shuto
Blocking
Ibuki
Elbow
Knees
Kicks
All basic techniques are performed on the spot. The purpose is to learn and practice the technique so that it may be utilized later.
Shuto
Blocking
Ibuki
Elbow
Knees
Kicks
All basic techniques are performed on the spot. The purpose is to learn and practice the technique so that it may be utilized later.
Break
Movement across the floor
The sensei will determine the combination of steps, attacks, and blocks done in combination moving forward or backward. The techniques we reviewed while stationary are used in motion and are practiced as a class.
Kata
Karate forms. Please note that variations exist in different styles or karate and thus may not be identical to those learned at other schools.
Pad work
Punching and kicking pads in rotation. Students will take turns both hitting and holding the pads so that they experience all aspects of training. Pad work is great training for power, speed and endurance, but we also stress control and focus. Proper technique is important to prevent injury.
Break
Students will also take this time to put on any protective gear that they have such as shin guards and gloves. Kenseikai does not use body armour or cups.
Partner Work
Students are paired up to practice techniques on each other as instructed by the sensei. The purpose is to practice with a human opponent and will include striking, blocking, and grappling. Power is controlled so not to hurt your partner.
Kumite
Students are paired and fight in rotation for aprox. 1 minute bouts. This is where you will discover your strengths and weaknesses. Put your skills into practice in a full contact setting. Students need to keep in mind that sparring is not intended to injure the opponent and respect the Kenseikai sparring rules.
During kumite:
Hand and elbow techniques are prohibited to the neck and head. However please note kicking to the head is allowed.
No groin strikes of any kind.
Control your power. Do not injure your opponent.
Respect your opponent.
Once your opponent is down, do not strike them.
During kumite:
Hand and elbow techniques are prohibited to the neck and head. However please note kicking to the head is allowed.
No groin strikes of any kind.
Control your power. Do not injure your opponent.
Respect your opponent.
Once your opponent is down, do not strike them.
Warm Down
Students return to their starting positions. Light stretching is followed by a final drill. Then students will kneel for traditional Japanese formalities.
