JKA American Federation Training Camp report :

JKA HQ shihan K.Okuma visit Shihan Takayuki Mikami sensei in New Orleans, USA for Gasshuku, JKA AF from 9th -12th, June, 2016

 

Okuma Koichiro Sensei of the JKA, visited The Crescent City, New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.A. June 9 – 12 to teach a Karate Clinic for members of the Japan Karate Association – American Federation. Nearly 160 men, women, and children from 12 to 70 years old participated in the annual Karate Camp this year. Okuma Sensei’s teaching style is very lively and his English is very good. Members of the camp enjoyed Okuma Sensei’s presentation very much. Okuma Sensei’s teaching method is very active and this keeps students alert and engaged in learning. He started with introducing the penetrating power zenkutsu dachi of the kata, Taikyoku Shodan and Heian Shodan. For some lively fun and concentration he introduced his unique application of these kata. Next, Okuma Sensei focused on the importance of core body strength in the kata, Tekki Shodan and Jion. Okuma Sensei reinforced his lessons on quick penetrating movements using paired go-hon kumite and group kizami tsuki training. Since most of the participants were shodan or higher, Okuma Sensei reviewed Bas Sai Dai, the fundamental kata for all yudansha. Okuma Sensei’s fluency in the English language made it very easy for him to interact positively with students in discussing the meaning and application of various movements in the kata. Many people took various dan exams on the last day of the camp. Many passed and many did not, particularly in the higher ranks. This is good because higher ranked students will struggle harder this year for their dan exams next year. This intensity may increase the chances of JKA-AF success at the next Funakoshi Cup.

Osu. Green T. Waggener