Gradings are always a nervous time. What if I forget something? What if I get it wrong? I can’t do it? Doubt can creep in. The thing to remember is that you are grading because you can do it! You do know it! Your instructors believe in you!
Practice and Practice and Practice, the three P’s. It shows. On the big day, do your best and give it all, as this is what we look for. Getting to class and then to grading is half the battle. Finishing it is the rest. Be proud of what you have achieved when you are done. It is not easy and gradings are built to challenge you mentally as well as physically.
Today, we see some more great efforts from our students.
For the kids Amelia graded to her Orange tip, while Taine, Zakk, Jack and Angus all achieved their Yellow Belts. Obviously you have all been practicing hard.
For the adults a great display of effort and heart. A well deserved Yellow Belt for Angela, nailing those backwards rolls :) and for Orange Tips, Krista, Shane and Troy smashed it out.
Well done to everyone. Onwards to your next rank. Next grading is December. Train hard and you may be ready to do it all again.
:)
Osu
Sensei Chris
A great article regarding Karate, Kata and Self Defence from our friends over at Martial musings. Enjoy…
Excerpt: “There are a lot of opinions of whether Kata (or forms) and traditional martial arts are worth practicing… particularly these days with the MMA, Muay Thai, BJJ and other combat sports taking the limelight.
Many are in the camp of thinking that traditional martial arts training, and particularly Kata training (Kata = forms or patterns used in traditional martial arts) is a complete waste of time and training should be spent on more functional drills and sparring; while others feel Kata training is the “soul” of their art and perform their kata because it’s part of their heritage without a clear understanding of the meaning of the movements….”
Well well what do you know, we made the NZ Herald and the Pegasus post. Our FREE community kids self defence classes have proved very popular with over 60 kids coming through our first three sessions. Parents and kids had a great time and were very satisfied with what they learnt and saw. We achieved an average rating of 9.9 our of 10.
And we even made the papers featuring in:
NZ Herald: http://www.nzherald.co.nz/index.cfm?objectid=11875754
Pegasus post: Page 3, http://issuu.com/the.star/docs/117164pp?mode=embed&layout=http%3A%2F%2Fskin.issuu.com%2Fv%2Flight%2Flayout.xml&backgroundColor=010101
For the local community we feel it is crucial to be able to give kids a chance to defend themselves.
“It’s a no-brainer to at least give them some broad-based tips; it can make them more confident and give them a chance if they get into a difficult situation.” says Head Instructor Chris Cameron
We think it should be treated like swimming and become a core requirement at all schools. We will continue to look at offering the free sessions “as long as there is a need,” and was also planning to introduce longer, four-week self-defence courses for kids and adults.
To find out more and book your child in our next course follow our Facebook page or contact Chris on 021 823 857
First up, Self-defence is all about using your smarts — not your fists.
The attacker, who is probably already on edge and hyped up on adrenaline — and usually something else — may become even more angry and violent if you try to defend yourself. Sometimes the best way to deal with any attack or threat of attack is to try to get away. This way, you’re least likely to be injured.
One of the best ways to avoid an attack is to trust your instincts. Your body is full of special abilities for sensing your environment. Your intuition as some call it combined with a splash of common sense can help you get out of trouble. It can tell you it is a good idea to move on rather than hang around.
De-escalation
Sometimes attackers are people you know. It is sad but true. This is where what self defence experts call de-escalation techniques come into play to defuse a situation. Like giving the mugger the money rather than trying to fight. Or perhaps if someone harasses you when there’s no one else around, you can de-escalate things by agreeing with him or her. You don’t have to actually believe the taunts, of course, you’re just using words to get you out of a tight spot. Then you can redirect the bully’s focus (“Oh, I just heard the bell for class”), and calmly walk away from the situation.
Not losing your temper is also a great de-escaltion technique. learn how to manage your anger so you can talk and walk away without using your fists.
De-escalation doesn’t always work, it can only help if you remain calm and don’t add fuel to the fire.
Reduce risks
Do things that help keep you safe. It is that simple.
- Understand your surroundings. Walk or hang out in areas that are open, well lit, and well traveled. Become familiar with the buildings, parking lots, parks, and other places you walk. Pay particular attention to places where someone could hide — such as stairways and bushes.
- Avoid shortcuts that take you through isolated areas.
- If you’re going out at night, travel in a group.
- Make sure your friends and parents know your daily schedule (classes, sports practice, club meetings, etc.).
- If you go on a date or with friends for an snack, let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return.
- Check out hangouts. Do they look safe? Are you comfortable being there? Ask yourself if the people around you seem to share your views on fun activities — if you think they’re being reckless, move on.
- Be sure your body language shows a sense of confidence. Look like you know where you’re going and act alert.
- When riding on public transportation, sit near the driver and stay awake. Attackers are looking for vulnerable targets.
- Carry a cell phone if possible. Make sure it’s programmed with your parents’ or close friends phone number(s).
- Be willing to report crimes in your neighborhood and school to the police.
One of the best – Voice power
If you ever need help use your voice shouting words like “let go” “go away” “leave me alone” anything that can grab the attention of those around you. Besides, loud shouting in someones ear also works as a great deterrent. It hurts your ears!!!
Self Defence classes
I am biased I know, but the only way to prepare yourself to fight off an attacker is to take a self defence class. It would be awesome to be able to read an article like this one and be fully prepared. Unfortunately somethings you can only learn from trying.
A good self defence class will teach you more than just techniques. They will teach you how to size up the situation and environment you are in so you can decide what to do. They will also teach you how to use your flinch reflex effectively as well as other techniques for breaking an attackers grasp etc.
One of the best things you should take away from any self defence class is self confidence. Hesitation can get you in big trouble. The last thing you want to be thinking is “Can I really pull this self defence thing off?” Dry runs in any class gives you the confidence and understanding to know you can pull that off if need be.
Find a local self defence class and get some practice in for you and your family. You never know what is around the corner and it is better to be able to give you and your loved ones a chance rather than none to get out of trouble.
Find out more about our Self Defence classes.
