Ides of April

Sensai reminded again to work on including a twisting motion in our blocks and punches to add power and snap to  techniques in the kata. Particularly in gedan-uke and jodan-uke of Fukyugata Ⅰ. The gedan-uke should also include a twisting at the hips, since the block should start from the opposite shoulder and come across the body.

I’ve noticed that I need to work on getting more consistent about turning my hips 45° in (especially the first) kosa-dachi in Pinan Shodan.

Sensai also made several comments regarding Naihanchi Shodan. The first was to think of the morote-barai-uke in terms of cutting. It should also be as deep (in terms of distance from beginning to end, as well as away from the body) as possible.
Secondly, the rounded block needs twist to generate power since it only moves a short distance. Finally, the entire kata should be performed on one level.

Began working on Ananku with Zack.  It’s shorter than I expected and most stances are zenkutsu-dachi.

Was asked to lead and count Kihon Kama Ⅰ. Good thing I’ve made it a point to practice kama a lot this year.
Strikes should be delivered from the shoulder or across the body.
After striking, the return to the chambered position should include a motion where the elbow pulls in toward the body – think about dislodging the blade from a body or staff.

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