In freestyle sparring (Ju-Kumite), in order for a Karateka to prevail he must develop a strong defense while still poised to instantly take advantage of an opponent’s weakness. In order to accomplish this he must maintain his balance. Sensei Zenryo Shimabukuro always stressed Uke Kogeki, which is to block and counter simultaneously.
Openings are exploited either before or after an opponent’s attack. Any hesitation on your part would affect your reflexes and will place you in a disadvantage. Diligent training will build confidence, and with confidence there will be no hesitation. Our kata is a good indication that karate is a defensive art. It should be practiced and taught as such. Depending on quickness alone is foolish and dangerous. After a block always counter and with proper practice and learning, develop it into an effective Uke Kogeki. There is no first punch in Karate since the defense in this case is to foresee and act in advance. (Sensei Zenryo Shimabukuro stressed UKE KOGEKI techniques, which is evident in Kata Wanchin which he created.)
A well-executed block will have a definite affect on an opponent’s balance, disrupting coordination, and in turn the timing, power and focus. It will also create openings. Sensei Zenryo Shimabukuro said that, “A properly executed block can stop an opponent.”
Initially both competitors are in a high state of readiness. Use multiple techniques expecting the first to be nullified. Use techniques by evaluating your opponent, and not out of habit. Your offensive techniques should be concealed into your movements. Keep your feet close to the ground in a shuffle or sliding movement for instant reaction.
Learn application by having an imaginary opponent in all of your training to develop your subconscious mind to react automatically. When you do have a live opponent, learn to look for signs that will telegraph his intentions. Familiarizing yourself with various techniques will assist you to anticipate your opponent’s movements. Choose a few techniques you can develop to a high level of proficiency along with a strong defense. Improve your stamina and reflexes by learning when to breath, when to relax and when to contract. To greatly increase the basics, the following should be practiced:
To achieve the SHOCK effect;
PUNCH;
The elbow will be locked upon contact,
KICK;
The knee will be locked upon contact,
BLOCK;
The contraction of the latissimus
muscle upon contact.
A shocking punch with power is attributed to focus to a small given area, and the locking of the elbow at the precise moment. A strong kick is due to the locking of the knee at the precise moment. The block attributes its strength to the contraction of you arm and shoulder muscles upon contact.
Diligent daily training with properly executed movements repeated numerous times to condition muscles, coordination, balance, reflexes, power, timing and accuracy is essential to improve your proficiency. Never forget that Karate is a defensive art as such it should be taught and practiced. All of our Kata start with a blocking technique. Both Sensei Kyan and Sensei Shimabukuro were men of small physical stature. They relied on quickness, evasive techniques and swift powerful blows that were well timed and focused. Physical and mental techniques must be focused to greatly increase the effectiveness of the given technique.
WHAT ARE THE ESSENTIALS NEEDED IN BECOMING A PROFICIENT FIGHTER?
1. Knowledge and understanding of the techniques will assist you to anticipate your opponent.
2. The ability to recognize the strength and knowledge of your opponent will help you to decide your move.
3. You must be in condition to meet the given situations.
4. Present a different target and avoid rhythmic movements.
5. Change your stance according to your opponent; always move in a “pull-away” movement.
6. Never advertise your intentions prior to initiating your move. Always move in a sliding motion for instant reactions.
7. A sliding motion will enable you to react instantly by applying pressure to the floor.
8. Karate strikes should be applied swiftly to a small given target area for maximum shock effect, and not a brute force applied to a wide area.
9. MAKIWARA, HEAVY BAGS, and MIRRORS are some of the necessary equipment needed for proper training.
Remember being able to anticipate your opponent is only half of Ju-Kumite, the other half being, your ability to take advantage of the situation. By diligent training you build up your confidence, and with confidence there will be no hesitation on your part which will result in faster reactions.