Syllabus and grading information
Katas
| Gekisai dai ichi |  |  | |||
| Gekisai dai ni |  |  | |||
| Tensho |  |  | |||
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| Saifa |  |  | |||
| Seiyunchin |  |  | |||
| Sanseiru |  |  | |||
| Shisochin |  |  | |||
| Sepai |  |  | |||
| Seisan |  |  | |||
| Kururunfa |  |  | |||
| Suparinpei |  |  | |||
Black Belt
There are 9 grades below Black Belt. These are known as Kyu grades (Japanese for rank) with 9th Kyu, yellow belt, being the lowest and 1st Kyu, brown and white, the highest.
Gradings
Gradings are held regularly and students eligible to attempt their next grade will be invited by their instructor, grading dates will also be posted on the website.
All of our students are entitled to take grading examinations after set periods of training. Your senior instructors conduct the gradings, and there is a grading syllabus for all levels. Coloured belts are used to denote grades and you will be presented with your new belt at the successful completion of each test.
TRAINING METHODS
About Goju Ryu Karate Training.
The Goju Ryu training method can be divided into main categories.
In each category the individual is given the instruction at the most basic level until the techniques become spontaneous. As the student advances technically, they progress physically and develop greater stamina. At the same time they learn increasingly intricate kata and more dynamic forms of kumite.
As the student approaches black belt level, technique stamina, speed and co-ordination become natural as a result of intensive practice. It is at this stage that the serious students discover the wonderful world that karate has opened to them.
The object of true karate practice is the perfection of ones self through perfection of the art.
- Kihon ("basics2: the practice of blocks , punches, kicks and stances)
- Kata ("form": pre-arranged forms simulating combat situations)
- Kumite ("sparring": combat situations practised with an opponant)
- Hoju Undo ("supplementary training": the use of weights and implements to increase strength and agility)
ADULT CLASSES
For adults Goju Ryu Karate is a fun, challenging way of gradually getting into the best shape of your life. It can be practiced at any age, does not require exceptional flexibility or natural talent, and demands no special equipment, facilities , or even other people to practice with. You can expect to lose weight, gain greater energy, and develop a stronger, better-toned, healthier body. Not only do you develop top notch self defence abilities with Goju Ryu Karate, you fight premature aging, and enjoy a healthier, and more rewarding life.
Warm Up
This is the first step in a karate class. Stretching exercises are performed to warm up the joints, tendons and muscle groups. Usually lasting about 5-10 minutes, these stretches start with the toes and work upward, finishing with the neck exercises.
Conditioning
After finishing the warm up we follow with some strength and conditioning exercises, usually broken down into upper body, mid section and lower body routines. These exercises are done at a gradual pace so that over the course of time your body becomes stronger, more toned, and has cardiovascular circulation. This builds your ability to develop your karate technique to its full potential. Typical exercises include push ups (upper body) sit ups (mid section) & squats (lower body).
Basics (Kihon)
Having stretched out and warmed up, the class turns to the true foundation of your karate training: basic techniques. This is where students learn all the building blocks of karate: kicks and footwork; locks and throws; and punches and blocks. These are practiced in four basic fashions: stationary; moving; with a partner; and single and combination techniques
Forms (Kata)
The central component of Goju Ryu Karate, Kata are prearranged forms that allow a student to practice alone, and appreciate the interaction of numerous basic techniques. As students progress they are taught more intricate and complex kata. These forms have been handed down from century to century and can be practiced one’s whole life. Within the movements of a kata are many “bunkai” or self-defence applications that can be broken down and practiced with a partner. Kata is a concrete manifestation of technique, embodying the essence of traditional Karate
Power / Stamina Training
We use punch bags (hanging bags), focus pads (hand held body shields) and focus mitts (hand-sized targets) to develop and feel our power. In karate many combinations of kicks and punches can be practiced on the pads. This is an excellent way to develop stamina, distance, and power and tone the body.
Free Sparring / Self Defence
This is something that some students like and some prefer not to participate in. It’s up to the individual. Sparring or ‘kumite’ as its called is the ultimate cardiovascular workout – you will break a real sweat during these classes. Sparring develops your understanding of the distance and timing needed for offensive and defensive movement in a loose, non-contact format. Protective equipment is worn by all participants and is practiced in a safe and controlled atmosphere. Free sparring is also excellent self-defence training. Not only does it help build one’s confidence, it helps one develop the physical and emotional reactions needed to deal with a potentially violent situation on the streets.
Mental / Spiritual Development
Today’s society has become more complex and competitive. But while technology and science are hitting new highs, people are hitting new lows in terms of physical conditioning and truly ‘free’ time. This has resulted in staggering amounts of illness in society due to stress. Training in karate gives one a sense of inner focus and emotional balance in life. When you come to train, you have a real opportunity to alleviate stress, focus on yourself and your development and truly leave the day’s worries at the door of the dojo.
