I hope your grading went well. I'm new to forums but hope I can help. I've been studying karate - okinawan goju ryu for 30 years now. Studied under a great deal of teachers, Kiyoda in Okinawa, Meitoku Yagi Dai Sensei a couple of times, Ikemiyagi and they all had the same advice. Kumite comes from the breakdown of practise over time. Apply the techniques until you become comfortable with each one on a bag or makiwara. Train small sections of kata over and over. Until you are relaxed and confident with each move. And what each move does. Visualise the real thing. Although we dont believe in kumite sport, you must start slow. After all you didnt learn to punch correctly in a day. Use simple blocks try not to get too complicated. Use your eyes well so the other person is frightened, breathe correctly and you will be fine. Its our culture to hurry and get good at things quickly. But karatedo comes slowly. Take your time. Good luck
