Technique of the Week (October 31st 2011)

From Kyoshi Michael Mackay
Shihan, Ueshiro Midtown Karate Dojo, NYC

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Hanshi Corrections

Domo arigato gozaimasu to Hanshi Robert Scaglione for conducting Sunday's work out at the Hombu Dojo (see attached group photo). Hanshi offered close to a hundred corrections for us to think about (Thoughts for Many Weeks), three of which are listed below. As Hanshi would say,
"Research these well."

* "Train to win." - Every technique, especially the first technique, needs the focus and commitment as if your life was on the line. Do not train without purpose.

* "Win the fight with yoi." Setting the feet, fixing the gaze, showing warrior spirit as in the yoi position - particularly the yoi at the end of a kata - will win the fight every time. No opponent will dare to attack you.

* "There is no power in the step or wind-up." Any power expended in stepping first or chambering only detracts from the explosive power of the actual block, punch, or kick. Rooting down and fully chambering is used to gather power, not expend it.

Domo arigato gozaimasu, Hanshi, for these and so many other high-level comments. You keep us challenged, motivated and inspired to win the battle.

Looking forward to closing the year with great purpose and enthusiasm.

Kyoshi Michael Mackay
Shihan, Ueshiro Midtown Karate Dojo