:: Training
:: Kihon
:: Kata
:: Kumite

"learn one thing know ten"

The expression means that when you are taught something, build on it to increase your understanding as much as possible. If you are given a small bit of responsibility, as you are when you are awarded a black belt, look for all the areas where that responsibility applies and take it up on yourself to apply it. Help out. Don't wait to be told to pick up after yourself (and somebody else for instance). Watch the school when the sensei is busy. Start the class; clean the floor. Close and lock the windows and doors.

Karate is a mirror of life. Don't get misled by the physical; or the pomp and circumstance; and the bravado. See to be a true Master from within, not from a title given by others. Look for the responsibility the black belt brings. Welcome the challenge. Try to be something more.

Karate is a hidden treasure. You can let yourself be dazzled by its sparkle or use it to find a better way of life. THE CHOICE IS YOURS.

Genbu-Kai training begins with basic (Kihon Shu) techniques. Training must adhere to learning correct kihon techniques. This is the foundation of Genbu-Kai Karate-Do training ("Shu"). Basics contain an infinite amount of mystery. If you do not understand the true meaning of technique and applications, you will not know this mystery.

Karate is a defensive art (in karate there is no first strike) and so it follows that there are defenses locked within seemingly intricate moves. The basic blocks that all beginning karate students learn, contain these moves. It is the mastery of the applicaiton of these blocks which can take years. There are five blocks, or types of defense. Everything else flows from these defenses.

These are:

1. Up and Down Stretch

2. Force Against Force

3. Using the Opponent's Own Power Against Him.

4. Change Body.

5. Simultaneous Block and Attack.

Other basic techniques studies include kicking and striking techniques.