So it’s coming up to our first year anniversary where we officially opened doors to students on a case by case scenario. This period has been a great learning curve for all three of us. The joys of seeing enthusiastic students commence training and picking up chiishi for the first time, to the disappointment of the vanishing student who does not communicate their intentions to leave. I guess with anything in life there will always be highs and lows as evident in the present COVID19 era.
So what exactly have we all learned from being a “sensei” this past year? From having studied karate for over 30 years now, we take for granted the natural body mechanics we practise habitually. Such examples like getting into a sanchin dachi (short stance) or executing a geidan uke (lower section block) which we assume is simple enough for even your great grandmother to perform with ease, is no more for the beginner. And that is the beauty of teaching, it makes you wonder what it is that you really do and how we get into such a position or strike. Body movements need to be analysed, different student physique and flexibility too need to be considered. Some times, "Just do it" does not work for everyone.
Another point noted in relation to the physical side of karate training, is the apparent benefits of body conditioning practise on a regular basis. By this I mean the striking of each other’s body, arms, legs and the hardening of the knuckles through makiwara training. This may be debatable for many due to health issues and whatnot, however, on a personal level and having done so for such a long time, it is clear that one does not bruise as much if at all, bones feel stronger, and heavy strikes can be withstood. In addition, your opponent can be injured simply by hitting you - how does that work ?! 😊 The list goes on and on but I will leave it at that.
Moving away from the physical aspects, l would like to focus on The Art of Communication. Why I use the word “Art” is that prior to opening our dojos, I had no idea it could be such a challenge for so many. Simple acts of messaging which may take 30 seconds at most can be compared to completing a PhD in Physics for many. And by messaging, I mean a quick txt to inform the instructor for the absence of training or the withdrawing from training completely. Simple acts of communication goes a long long way, not just in the dojo but in your daily life. Having said that, the positive students who remain we embrace with open arms and never hold back learning if they are competent enough regardless of rank.
Let’s see what the following years bring us and the lessons we will encounter.
Just a photo for your attention................