Karate Classes
Karate brings students of the art together to train in a spirit of freindship and respect. The discipline of karate requires the mind and body to work together in maintaining balance, control and coordination.
Every class in karate begins with an exercise and warm-up period designed to loosen and stretch tight muscles, limber joints and condition the body. Following the warm-ups is practice in the basic techniques of punching, kicking, blocking, guarding and stricking. Karate techniques aim to concentrate as much bodily energy as possible at the point of contact with the opponents body. Wado Kai karate employs very light, fast and powerful techniques and favors body evasion through body shifting. Students are taught to strike by creating a very fast type of whiplash movement in which hip twisting is employed to increase the force of the technique.
The basic techniques are also practiced in a number of set sequences or patterns called katas. A kata is a fixed sequence of techniques simulating combat against two or more opponents. Ther are many katas, of varying complexity. Within them all of the defensive and offensive techniques are woven together. Proper training in the katas is a good foundation for affective action in any situation.
Katas are the heart of karate.
It's the sparring element in karate that attracts many advocates to the art. Master Ohtsuka formulated the principles and rules of free-sparring of kumite in 1934. The fighting is non-contact but students must demonstrate the ability to execute a strong and effective technique. In matches in higher ranking belts, light controlled body contact is allowed. The combat is regulated by self-control, timing, distancing of techniques, and honor and respect for the opponent.
