UNDERSTANDING THE GAME
Shotokan is a style of karate developed from various martial arts. Shotokan originates from Japan and was founded by Gichin Funakoshi (1868–1957) and his son Yoshitaka Funakoshi (1906–1945). Shotokan was the name of the first official dojo built by Funakoshi.
Shotokan training is usually divided into three parts: Ki-hon (basics), Kata (forms or patterns of moves), and Ku-mite (sparring). Techniques in kihon and kata are characterized by deep, long stances that provide stability, enable powerful movements, and strengthen the legs. Kumite (meeting of hands) techniques mirror these stances and movements at a basic level, but are less structured, with a focus instead on speed and efficiency.
Kumite
Gichin Funakoshi laid out the twenty precepts of karate, which form the foundations of the art. Within these twenty principles, lies the philosophy of Shotokan. The principles allude to notions of humility, respect, compassion, patience, and both an inward and outward calmness. It was Funakoshi’s belief that through karate practice and observation of these 20 principles, the karateka would improve their person.
A dojo ,is a Japanese term which literally means “place of the way”. Initially, dojos were adjunct to temples. The term can refer to a formal training place for any of the Japanese “do” arts, but typically it is considered the formal gathering place for students of any Japanese martial arts style to conduct training.
The Dojo Kun lists five philosophical rules for training in the dojo; seek perfection of character, be faithful, endeavor to excel, respect others, and refrain from violent behavior.
(Wiki)
EXCEL MARTIAL ARTS TRAINING CENTER (EMATC)
My journey on this planet has brought me to Syracuse, New York. While searching for a gym where I could handle my biz (provide personal/group training services), I was fortunate to cross paths with my brother El-Java Abdul-Qadir. Shihan (master instructor) El-Java is a fourth degree black belt in shotokan karate, a world champion, and currently ranked number one by the North American Sport Karate Association.
Through the blessings of Allah, El-Java and I have formed an incredible friendship and working relationship! I am now a proud member of the EMATC team! I have started handling “Biz Ness!!” and I have added Shotokan karate to my fitness regimen.
MY MMA EXPERIENCE
Back in the days when I lived in Niamey, Niger (1987-1990) I practiced Taekwondo under the tutelage of Master Cho! I was a very good student. I represented my dojo very well and was invited to the national tournament for kids. I got my but kicked, but honestly, I think I was caught up in the “flashing lights”. I still remember my friend Jonathan Mvie consoling me after my defeat… It wasn’t easy losing, especially with my family, my classmates, and what seemed like the entire world watching!
Fast forward to 2006… I started getting more involved in “The sweet science” otherwise known as the sport of boxing. Boxing has been a big part of my training routine every since. It is one of my favorite forms or cardiovascular training and I encourage my clients to box for a workout as a part of their training program. I’ve been involved in training professional boxers, amateur boxers, as well as sparring at gyms such as the world renown Gleesons Gym in Brooklyn, NY.
I am a big fan of mixed martial arts. I am thrilled to add Shotokan to my repertoire. Some of my favorite fighters have a background in Shotokan Karate, namely George St. Pierre and Lyoto Machida. Rank is used in karate to indicate experience, expertise, and to a lesser degree, seniority. As with many martial arts, Shotokan uses a system of colored belts to indicate rank. I am now…
9th KYU White Belt (Beginner)
Hachiji-dachi
Heian Shodan translates as, “Peaceful mind, first level.” and is the first of the series of five Heian kata. It teaches the karateka to ground himself in strong stances. Thus it represents Earth. It is one of the most basic kata and is usually the first kata a karateka learns.
There is an emphasis on basic low blocks/strikes and stepping punch, moving through the center and building strong and low front stances, hammer fist technique and face blocks/strikes, including transitionally timed blocks and strikes, back stance knife hand block/strike, proper basic breathing and application of kiai. Hip rotation, vibration, shifting/thrusting, reconnection.
(www.heianshodan.com)
This is the first Kata I will be required to perform.