Fractured

Thank you for your replies!

I had recently graded and was presented with my Nidan. This process all happened so fast for me. I got my Shodan in late 2011, trained for a few years, and took a few years off... you know that cycle... Anyways, I have been back at it for a while now and felt I needed to "re-kindle" my love for the art. So the second my Sensei asked me "When did you grade last?" I mentioned that I'd like to be graded. If I didn't feel I needed "re-kindling", then I would have happily kept on keepin' on as Shodan. This time around, however, was a much more emotional experience for me as my Sensei has sort of retired.

Hi everyone, I'm just curious what other Isshinryu (even other styles) describe Seisan kata when teaching a new student. For my group, we explain that Seisan translates to "13". Whether that is "13 ways", "13 directions", or "13 hands". We gravitate to the 13 directions explanation. 8 directions of the compass, rise, fall, push, pull, and center. Each of these "direction" mechanics can be observed while performing Seisan. I have heard a few explanations that you're fighting 13 attackers. I suppose in certain bunkai this could make some sense.

Hi again, So I decided to get the 73" version of this bo case. Its basic and should last me a while. One thing I will probably do is add a bit of leather to the bottom to keep it from damaging through. https://mikado-martial-arts-supplies.myshopify.com/products/vinyl-sword-and-staff-cases?variant=40221242294424 Comfortably fits my oak and purple heart bo's.

@Fat Cobra Thank you for that! I will research it and add it to my list for sure.

Good evening, and happy Easter. I recently inherited one of my Sensei's Bo. I sanded both mine and the new one, and applied teak oil, buffed then off and they look beautiful. Now I want to keep them safe! Anyone recommend a nice case to use for daily transportation? Also, anyone make their own? I take a lot of time before purchasing literally anything so I'm reaching out to our community to see what works for you all Ty so much, kampai!

It was a fantastic evening. Full of emotions and friends. I know the gradings are supposed to push you to your limit, and I definitely was! After the class, I was presented with my beautifully put together nidan certificate signed by both my Sensei. Then we went out for the traditional round of drinks Have a great night everyone!

Grading tomorrow - It's been a long time coming - still makes me nervous! My Sensei had hung up his Gi, but he said he's putting it back on for me tomorrow night at the Dojo I've been training at. Super honored. It's going to be awesome.

Thanks, everyone! I'm looking forward to being part of the conversation

Hello fellow Karatea! I've been studying Isshin-Ryu on-and-off since I was a little guy - started in 1998. I've been a member of 3 clubs in total over the years, all with similar lineage. The on-and-off has been a struggle with myself but I've never stopped kata in my own time. I digress - I am two feet back in and training for my Ni-dan (finally!). Isshin-ryu dojo seem to be few and far in between, at least in the valley, so I'd love to connect with others out there, learn their lineage and chat casually with other Karateka. Have a great day, everyone. Kampai!