Beginners Training Tip

Advanced Training Tip

Balance and mobility

Practice moving quickly in stance, using your blocks and strikes, as in the kata. Make up your own sequences of blocks, counters and attacks, change angles and directions. Be creative, based on your level of training. Remember you want to move quickly with balance so you can maximize your power.

Speed without balance = instability and lack of power

Too much stability, (too low a stance) = poor mobility.
You must strike an even or middle ground. One that allows quick and agile movement that can be translated quickly into maximum power.
Start now! - this is a long term study and can not be attained in a few weeks.

Recognition before reaction

Teach yourself to see (recognize) before you react. This ability is ageless and will serve you better than your aging reflexes. True karate is not built on speed or reaction time, but upon visual perception (recognition). This will lead to mental perception. Understanding of oneself and your surroundings will allow to you respond (react) to them effectively. You are the one that is in control. Do not allow others or situations to control your response. This is an ability that is continuously revised, added to and learned. The more you experience in all fields of endeavor the greater your base of recognition. Hence the term "an artist of life". Thank you O'sensei Kim.

Inspire others with your own submission.