Training

Training

Training usually begins with a warm up led by the sensei or a senior student, designed to increase circulation, heart rate and breathing and to suitably warm and stretch the relevant muscles in preparation for the session - you should endeavour to follow the actions and instruction as closely as possible without overstraining or hyperextending your body.

The training session itself is generally divided into three sections: kihon or "basics", kumite or "sparring", and kata (forms or patterns of moves). Shotokan techniques in kihon and kata are characterised by deep, long stances which provide stability and powerful movements. Strength and power are often demonstrated instead of slower, more flowing motions. The kumite techniques mirror these stances and movements at a basic level, but progress to be become more "free" and flexible at a higher level. Funakoshi is said to have found the traditional martial arts (such as sumo, jujutsu and kenjutsu) to be too exclusively focused on combat, and he put more emphasis on character development, health, breathing, releasing energy and developing outstanding mind and body control. These approaches and others such as balance speed of movement and keen reflexes are some of the ingredients which naturally develop effective combat skills. During the training session you should try to be enthusiastic, show a willingness to learn and strive to achieve good spirit. Mental focus is a central part of training and you should try to maintain it at all times.

Following the session, which usually lasts about 90 minutes there may be a warm down, following which you will line up again and be asked to kneel in sieza (seated kneeling). The command Mokuso will be given, allowing you a few silent moments to mentally reflect on the session, and internalise what you have learned. Then will follow the command Mokuso Yamae. Still in sieza, the class will be asked to Repeat Dojo Code - [Character, Sincerity, Effort, Etiquette, Self...