Training in recent weeks has been all about kumite.  We have created a warmup that incorporates the dynamic movements needed to get our bodies and minds ready for multiple matches.  A couple of key points to remember during warm-up:  one, once your muscles are ready to go, make your movements big – you can always notch them down during a match if needed, but its harder to bring them up if you haven’t warmed up that way.  Two, if you are warming up with a partner, remember to touch when you are throwing techniques – it’s the only way to give your brain the feedback it needs about proper distance for effective techniques.  While our first thoughts related to kumite typically centre on scoring, our warm up and drills have reminded us that the same level of strength, speed and control need to go into our defensive techniques.  Consistent, high intensity offensive and defensive tactics in the ring show both our opponents and officials that we are experienced and well-rounded karateka.

Congratulations to our dojo members who participated in the recent Karate Alberta Tournament held on October 15 and 16 here in Calgary.  Our athletes had some very good results, but more importantly gained some additional experience to build on in future training and competitions.  Thanks also to our dojo members who volunteered their time to help with organization, set-up, take-down and officiating – your contributions make a huge difference in the success of the tournaments.  The next few weeks have several opportunities for additional training/involvement.  See the calendar entries on the right side of this page for more information about the All Alberta Karate Invitational Tournament on November 26 at Notre Dame High School in Calgary.  The tournament is co-sponsored by our dojo and our friend Sensei Adam Wackershauser – if you are not planning on competing, please consider volunteering some time on the Saturday to help the tournament run smoothly.  See Sempai Mariah Blunt for more information.  We also have the opportunity, on November 27, to work with three highly skilled and decorated karateka from Japan, led by our friend Sensei Masayoshi Nishiuchi.  They are offering a kumite clinic for all belt levels and ages – don’t miss this great opportunity to expand and sharpen your kumite skills.   Fee for the clinic is $50; also, we need all participants to complete and sign a waiver form before the clinic begins.

As we review recent efforts in competition and in training, “remember that sometimes not getting what you want is a wonderful stroke of luck.”

Announcements

• Class Cancellations:   No classes on Thursday, November 24 and Friday, December 16 due to school use.
• The last day of class before the Christmas/Holiday break is Tuesday, December 20. Classes will resume on January 5, 2017.

Enjoy your training!

Gary Sabean

Head Instructor