April - May - June 2010 Board Training Topics

Topic 1 - 4 Ranges of Combative Training
          1. The Void - Safety range where you can neither be hit or grabbed nor can do so.
          2. Kicking Distance - the range in which you can kick your attacker.
          3. Punching / Striking Distance - the range in which you can punch or hand strike.
          4. Grappling / Throwing Distance - the range in which throws, joint locks, chokes, hold
              and grappling can be used effectively.

** - Remember that each range can overlap in self defense situations and learning to use the
     ranges appropriately will serve you very well in an attack situation.

Topic 2 - Proper Training Speeds
          1. 25% - used to perfect technique and build memory muscle skills.
          2. 50% - used to help develop quicker reflex reaction after memorization is attained.
          3. 75% - used only after proper technique is developed including defensive techniques
              to test one's ability to effective perform the technique against an attacker.
          4. 100% - never used in the dojo and reserved for when it matters for real.

Topic 3 - Proper Kata Training
          1. First stage is to memorize the techniques and order of movements.
          2. Work on perfection of technical expertise of the Kata.
          3. Demonstrate the Kata by performing the best you can over and over again.
          4. Performance of Kata - the stage in which the above levels have been met and you
              can begin and end the Kata with excellent technique / power with no mistakes.
          5. Bunkai - once stage 4 is met you will begin examining the Bunkai (hidden
              techniques) of the Kata to better understand its purpose and meaning.

Topic 4 - Kumite Training
          1. Respect your partner at all times.
          2. Safety in practice above all else.
          3. Perfect proper execution of technique in Kumite.
          4. Gain excellent focus and control of your own self and your techniques.
          5. Gain balance through the use of proper stances and foot work.
          6. Understand and perfect proper targeting. Never throw out something just to do so.
          7. Live Kumite performance where all the above have been mastered correctly.