A typical training

 

A training session of karate lasts approximately 1 hour 30 and consists mainly of four parts:

 

·         Warm up

·         Kihon

·         Kumite

·         Kata

Crucial before any physical effort, the warm-up exercises will take the first 15 to 20 minutes of each karate lesson. According to each individual’s basic skills we train, develop or strengthen resistance, physical power as well as flexibility. Obviously, a child cannot push an exercise like an adult. On the other hand we cannot ask a beginner of 35y to acquire the same flexibility as a child of 8y. Nevertheless, everyone will get the chance to improve and become a good karateka.

This work is performed by the entire group. Depending on each students level; one learns, improves or refines the techniques instructed by the teacher, reaching from basic techniques (positions, movement, attacks and defenses) to very elaborate combinations of several techniques.

Kumite means fight. It is usually practiced in pairs. Each individual alternates between the attacking role and the defense role, according to patterns given by the teacher. The blows are constantly controlled, always given progressively and according to the skills of the partner.

A kata consists of a succession of techniques of mixed difficulties, executed individually or in group. There are many kata, varying in length and complexity. They can be compared to choreographies, where groups of movements represent strictly codified fights. A Kata is performed against several imaginary opponents. The T.S.K. federation practices the SHOTOKAN style where 26 kata are practiced. Before taking the exam for the next grade (kyu) or level (dan), one or two additional kata must be mastered.