THIS MONTH IN TRADITIONAL KARATE
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The Makiwara Essential or Outdated? - Part 1 - The E.S.K.K. Column |
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By far the most well-known traditional training implement in traditional karate is the striking post called makiwara (literally: sheaf of straw) named after the original padding used for striking. This is most likely due to the fact that exclusive use of this tool was promoted by the mainland Japanese instructors and as modern styles such as (most notably) Shotokan began to spread worldwide, so too did the idea of regular makiwara training. Among those who did not fully understand its use, the development of noticeably calloused knuckles became a kind of ‘trophy’ to distinguish true karate-ka and highly sought after, to the point that it would be common to hear stories that would border on self-torture rather than self-growth. In actual fact though, the change in appearance of the knuckles is a result of regular and consistent makiwara use and should not be thought of as a primary objective. Having calloused knuckles is not directly proportional to the knowledge and application of powerful striking. Instead it simply shows that a significant length of time has been spend facing the post – whether hitting correctly or not!
The makiwara is largely considered to be a tool of Okinawan origin but there are also arguments to suggest that the initial inspiration may have come from either China (where many other traditional tools originated), or Japanese Jigen Ryu swordsmanship. It is this particular weapon system, founded in the late 16th century by Togo Chui, that the legendary Sokon ‘Bushi’ Matsumura is said to have gained a teaching licence and passed on knowledge to Anko Itosu (no doubt as well as other karate pioneers of the time). Interestingly, Jigen Ryu training involves repeated strikes against a vertically fixed wooden post (tategi-uchi), it incorporates a real emphasis on finishing a confrontation with a single blow and its syllabus also incorporates the use of Dan stages. Thus, there exists a possibility that the early development of karate on Okinawa may have been influenced to a greater or lesser extent by this art. This however has been the fuel of many debates with karate historians.
Regardless of the exact origins of the makiwara, the need to practice striking against objects for impact development is a method that should be practiced by all pragmatic systems of combat, where the traditional tools used to achieve this may of course vary greatly. For instance, also in traditional karate is the use of a large stone simply called ishi. Historically, these were lifted, carried and struck repeatedly to develop functional strength, conditioning and fight stopping power. Masters were said to have their own ‘favourite’ stone that would have been used for many years. Then we have items such as the wooden dummy (mook jong) from Chinese Wing Chun, coconuts, banana trees for Muay Thai, plus of course the likes of speed balls, focus mitts and heavy bags from the boxing arts of the west. Although the tools may vary, the message is simple - it’s impossible to gain real skill and ability in striking if you do not spend time developing impact against actual physical objects...
Read more in Combat Magazine available from WHSmith and all good newsagents
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Atemi Jutsu - The Art of Body Striking - Part 2 |
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This month I shall discuss the ‘Atemi-Jutsu or the Japanese ‘Art of Body Striking’ that pertains to the ‘jodan’ regions of the anatomy and indicate the basic strikes that one can administer. The vast majority of martial arts will teach the effective way to attack specific areas of the opponent’s body and not solely linked to those of Japanese origin.
‘Jodan’ strikes are principally related to the areas and nerve points attached to the skull and neck, the facial areas, sides of the head and ears, back of the head, the throat, the neck and the nape. More complex forms will teach striking methods to the top of the skull but I intend to cover off the elementary parts. The face houses many obvious striking points, and in the norm, they are largely unprotected by natural barricades.
The eyes, or ‘me’ or ‘ganmen’ in Japanese, are a clear area for attack and can obviously render the opponent either with temporary or permanent blindness so caution should be strictly observed when practising such attack drills. Attacking the eye/s and being successful will allow the opportunity for a secondary attack and/or immobilisation technique. The eyes can be struck with one or two finger techniques or by the use of gouging in a clawing motion. Again, there are other striking methods that can be employed but those stated are the obvious and easy to conduct. A feign of attacking the eyes may also lead to the opponent to’ reflex’, by closing his/her eyes or trying to cover the believed target, and give the martial artist the opportunity to deliver a more decisive strike or immobilisation. You will see that Atemi Jutsu techniques can be used as a sole strike or as a multiple striking exercise depending upon the desired outcome.
The nose, or ‘hana’ in Japanese, is a clear striking zone as it protrudes from the face and normally the first part of the anatomy that is hit. The nose, again if struck with even a small force, can render the opponent with blurred vision due to the connection with the ‘watering of the eyes’, is part of the respiratory system and can result in disorientation. Common strikes include basic punching, palm-heel strikes, elbow, knee and kicking techniques. The nose is a soft target so precision is not as important as in other targets of the anatomy. Some schools of martial art will even teach the use of butting attacks, primarily with the forehead, against the nose to induce unconsciousness upon the opponent. The proximity of the opponent will also be a deciding fact on which striking method to use, whether it be close-quarters, mid-range or long-range. Again, a martial arts instruction package will inevitably cover off all distances in terms of what to apply and how best to do so depending on the circumstances.
The ears, or ‘mimi’ in Japanese, are yet a further example of a ‘soft’ target area on the body. Hands, feet, elbows and knees can all be used as the striking tool against this particular part of the body, and so too, can gouging and tearing techniques. The ears are connected to the head and therefore serve as a tool when trying to move the head into a particular position. In addition, the ears are linked to balance of the opponent and thus reduce their position or stance if they are attacked in a specific manner, for example with the use of a pulling and tearing action...
Read more in Combat Magazine available from WHSmith and all good newsagents
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Local Boy Becomes National Karate Champion |
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Last Sunday (30th October), 7 year old Andreas Mouton of South Ockendon and 13 fellow students of Seitou Ryu Karate Club took part in the 1st TKF National Championships held at Crystal Palace, South London.
Over 250 competitors entered from across the UK as well as Russia and Hungary. Andreas beat all in his division to become the National Kata Champion for his age group, earning himself a gold medal and a provisional place in the TKF Great Britain Squad.
As well as being the youngest member of his club to compete, Andreas, as a 7th Kyu (orange belt) was one of the lowest grades. He started training in karate 18 months ago and decided to try out for the tournament squad in September this year. The Chief Instructor of Seitou Ryu Karate, Sensei Richard Hang Hong, a 3rd Dan black belt from Wickford, noticed Andreas’ solid techniques and his great attitude to training and decided to give him a place on the squad. Richard says, “Andreas showed a very strong kata for his age with sharp technique, he has great potential, as winning gold at his second tournament proves.”
14 members of the Seitou Ryu Karate National Squad (also known as Team SRK) entered, winning 2 Gold, 5 Silver, 3 Bronze medals...
Read more in Combat Magazine available from WHSmith and all good newsagents
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