Training session with JKA’s Sensei Johan
It is always an honour and a privilege to train with a South African and World JKA Champion
Johan La Grange – JKA 6th Dan, world-class JKA karate instructor, and SAJKA karate chief instructor and technical director – visited Northern KwaZulu-Natal on the weekend of September 28 and 29. All JKA karateka whose performance and attendance is above average were allowed to attend the training sessions. The one-hour training session on the Friday laid emphasis on the centre-line of the body; the point from which all power and speed originates (one’s “hara”).
For full impact and accurate strikes (and blocks), all actions and reactions are most effective when combined with the correct use of hip-movement, making sure that the feet are placed firmly on the ground to ensure good balance and posture.
Taking the very first kata taught to beginners in JKA karate, Heian-Shodan was adapted to include extra movements between each step to increase the use of hips and to incorporate an understanding of how basic blocks and counters can be maximised when hip action is applied with precision and power.
Also read: Training for karate championships
Saturday morning’s training session (only junior black, adult brown and black belts) followed up on the previous night’s class, emphasising that kihon (basics) and kata (sequence of moves) practiced and trained continuously form the basis for strong and effective kumite (fighting).
It is always an honour and a privilege to train with a South African and World JKA Champion, so thank you to Sensei Johan La Grange for his continued support and guidance in the sport and lifestyle of JKA karate. For any information regarding class times and fees, please contact Sensei Johan Swart on 0836587157
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