Shorin Ryu Karate Academy
In one sense, kata are highly stylized shadow boxing drills in which several combative principles and corresponding techniques illustrating the application of these principles have been compiled and arranged into a sequence intended for solo training. We can isolate segments from kata and then shadow box specific applications of those segments in ways that more
Ideally, we should be working our kata bunkai/application drills with partners, so that we can pressure test our applications with partners who exhibit varying degrees of compliance. However, many of us are still sheltered in place, and this video can help us to create solo-practice drills to develop, experiment with, and practice our kata/kihon bunkai
Kihon training, or working your basics, is an important element in traditional karate. Sometimes, however, classical kihon training can seem impractical, or the combinations do not seem to apply clearly to a practical self-defense context. It is important that we develop kihon combinations that can be used against an enemy. Ideally, we should practice the
Solo training is an important part of our martial arts training. In this video, I explain one way to work the classic low block, reverse punch kihon (basic technique) combination in the traditional way and then on the heavy bag. I’m applying the low block to clear limbs away from my target, setting up the
The lapel grab is a common attack in which the enemy tries to control your body and position so as to strike you more easily and accurately. Ideally, you want to keep the enemy from grabbing your lapel and striking your head/face; however, sometimes you will be grabbed. This bunkai drill from Pinan Nidan/Heian Shodan
High blocks in kata are often interpreted as blocking a technique aimed at the head; however, such an application is unlikely, given that the high block is just too slow (two movements) to block a punch to the head (one movement). In this video, we explore a possible application of the high block as a
The opening sequence of Pinan Nidan/Heian Shodan can also be applied as a response to or defense against a sucker punch or a wild, haymaker punch. The kata makes use of the natural flinch response and teaches the combative principle of getting off to the side, away from the enemy’s other striking hand. This drill
In this video, we explore a way to deal with a high wrist grab by straightening the enemy’s arm and thrusting the forearm into the elbow joint, thus significantly damaging the arm. We also look at a few takedown techniques implicit in the big pivot from high block into low block position.
After the opening sequence of Pinan Nidan/Heian Shodan, there are three high blocks in a linear progression. This video explores a possible application for that sequence: a high wrist release in a clinch scenario. This part of the kata does not use angles to teach us that sometimes, like in a clinch scenario, we cannot
