Seibukan Karate training precepts:
- Kihon (basics) and kata (forms) are the training priority
- Kata is karate, and karate is kata
- Emphasis is placed on physical conditioning
- Mastery of technique is not in the mind, but through training the body
- Train first to conquer the enemy within before attempting to conquer an attacker
- The purpose of training is to fortify the mind, body, and spirit
- Kumite (sparring) is used as a drill, not mistaken for fighting
- There is no value in karate if the goal is for fighting
Seibukan Karate focuses on Kyan's training strategies:
Develop the Body, Master Combat Techniques, and Develop Self-Control
Kihon Renshu
Physical Training I / Develop the Body (Posture)
Kihon Renshu is basic training to teach the body the forms and movements of Shorin-Ryu Seibukan. Kihon Renshu is a static training routine that alternates one side of the body to the other, which emphasizes the rotation of the core. Each technique of Kihon Renshu was created to develop a strong, flexible body. Pefecting the basic movements enhances the ability to perform the kata.
Hanshi Zenryo Shimabukuro created Kihon Renshu to help karate-ka quickly develop their bodies for Shorin-Ryu Seibukan.
Kihon Renshu training includes various blocks, punches, and kicks. Check out the video for a brief demonstration of some of the Kihon Renshu techniques.
Zenshin Kotai
Physical Training II / Develop the Body (Mobility)
Zenshin Kotai teaches mobility using the basic forms and movements. Practicing proper footwork is important for agility, and correcting moving into stances is the key to stability. Certain combat situations require quick movement to dodge and attack. An attack always has a head start on the defense; a block must be immensely faster than the attack. In other cases, it may be necessary to take a formidable posture to defend and counter.
Chotoku Kyan was well-known for his unique and successful fighting style. Kyan would swiftly jump in and out of range to evade and attack his opponents with devastating power.
Watch the video demonstration for examples of Zenshin Kotai techniques.
Kata
Forms of Karate / Master Combat Technique
Kata are martial patterns or sequences of techniques that reflect combat scenarios. Okinawan masters integrated their fighting methods into the kata, so that the movements could be practiced repetitively. Kata trains the mind to follow the body. Self-defense must be of the unconscious mind; there is no time to think. By practicing the forms and movements of the kata daily year after year with mental concentration and intent, a person can learn to fight. Practicing the techniques embedded in kata with a partner is called Kumite.
The video is a demonstration of the kata, Seisan. Kyan learned this kata from Sokon Matsumura, an Okinawan warrior and body guard to the RyuKyu King.
Ippon Kumite
Combat Drills / Develop Self-Control
Kumite trains the mind how to use the technqiue of kata. The "bunkai," or applications of technique, of kata should be practiced in combat situations with a partner. Self-control is a key skill learned by practicing partner drills. Precision and control must be used in order to avoid injury and gain discipline. Precision is also the key component to immobilizing an attacker and eliminating the threat by hitting specific targets.
Seibukan practices three methods of Kumite training: Ippon, Renzoku, and Jiyu Kumite. Ippon Kumite practices defend, counter, and immbolize against one attacker. Renzoku Kumite practices kata sequences against one or more attackers. Jiyu Kumite is "free sparring," similar to sports fighting, where two students practice the randomness of a fight while following prearranged rules and restrictions for safety. Jiyu Kumite is unpredictable and very dangerous to practice unless both partners have immense control, but accidents can still occur.
The video is a demonstration of Seisan Kata Renzoku Kumite and Ippon Kumite performed by Zenshun (center), Zenei (left), and Ryushi (right).
