As another year draws to a close, it is a good time to look back on what we have accomplished.  The focus for our training has been on basics:  our stances, controlled movements, speed and power.  We have been working hard at ensuring that the Kihons become second nature to all and we have spent time focusing on the specific Katas and Bunkais needed for testing at the various Kyu levels.  It seems like a lot – but I am seeing huge improvements each class.  The adult testing happens this week – I am confident that the hard work and training we have all put in will pay off. 

The end of the year is also a good time to examine your personal goals to see how you have done, what could be improved and what you will focus on for the coming months.  Remember to always have a plan for karate – when you come in to each class, you should set an objective for that class; when you think about the next three months, you should have a plan and a goal for what you will achieve.  Setting these milestones is important as they help to focus our training and ensure that the task doesn’t seem too big.  Remember that winners in life make it happen, while losers LET it happen. 

Speaking of goals, during the upcoming holiday break – last class is December 20, resuming January 7, 2014 – try to stay active.  I know we all love the Ab Ripper workout; everyone has worked hard at that and the other flexibility, strength and cardio exercises we have done.  Try to maintain that by getting to the gym or the pool, getting out skating, skiing or snowshoeing.  Staying active also provides the added benefit of not feeling too guilty if we happen to overindulge on holiday treats! 

It has been a great year – thanks for all your hard work and effort!  One closing thought from my former Sensei, about working hard in class: 

“If the training is hard, the fighting is easy.  If the training is easy the fighting is hard.”  Sensei Robert Gascoigne

Enjoy your training and best wishes for a safe and relaxing holiday season!

Shihan Gary Sabean – Head Instructor

Announcements

• Fee Changes:  Don’t forget – fees change effective January 1, 2014, due to increases from our parent Chito Ryu association in Japan.  The children’s three-month cost is now $200, the youth fee is now $275, and adults will pay $325 for three months.  Also – if you haven’t paid for November/December, please provide your cheque as soon as possible. 
• Congratulations to our dojo members selected to the Karate Alberta Provincial Team:  Mariah Blunt, Noah Thompson and Joseph Workman.  Mariah, Noah and Joseph will travel to Richmond, B.C. In January to represent Alberta at the Canadian National Karate Championships.  They have all been working very hard – good luck at the competition!