
I get to work on karate once a week for 4 hours. And that's not much time at all.
So where does this leave karate? Is it time to stream line it so that it fits better into modern life and the additional training options we now have?
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I like both, and wouldn't do without either. Working solo gives you time to really think about what you're doing and trying to accomplish. Often the activity of class doesn't allow such time to reflect.benzocaine wrote: I am a firm believer in solo practice. I still believe you have to roll/spar/partner work at least once a week for the conditioning aspect of it.
It's not really a big deal, getting hit in the head.. it just takes some getting used too. You can start with lighter gloves but go light.. as you get heavier in your hits, go with a larger glove. The fist will still come through the glove (I got a cut on my eye as proof) and you will hear a "crunchy" sound... I think that is just your flesh seperating from your skull or something... not to worry! You'll learn to love it!Bill Glasheen wrote:Ask Van what he thinks about "vanilla" preparation for head shots. The Uechi curriculum needs some supplementation to deal with this. (We have our stuff in my dojo...)
Head defenses (and offensive approaches to such) need to be explored.
Great post! Teaching and the teaching plan are essential. Tony wisely used the word "charismatic." The best of the best instructors have the dedication and charisma and every class is purposeful.There has to be a clear and coherent teaching path that leads "FROM THE FAMILIAR, INTO THE UNFAMILIAR".
This is a well-known sales technique but really it's a universal teaching principle as well. New students can't wade into all kinds of contact with no preparation. This will overwhelm them and drive them away.
Each stage of "conditioning" (mental and physical) has to instill REAL (not false) CONFIDENCE based on REALITY that the student can USE.
I truly believe that students who leave classes with a real feeling of accomplishment, and learning something of value and, having something REAL that they can use, will come back week after week for the subtle instillation of principles that are the real lessons of MA training.
No offense intended John, but you are wrong, Shotokan, Muay Thai & Uechi are just styles so let's not let people off so easy, many times students leave because sensei aren't doing right by their students.Uechi sells itself too cheaply.
Words that should be part of every teacher's lesson plan.There has to be a clear and coherent teaching path that leads "FROM THE FAMILIAR, INTO THE UNFAMILIAR".