cathal

My self-control has improved, and my self-discpline is also growing.

Well you may find someone from this page: http://www.yingjowpai.com/yingjowschool.html Just google'd it, so you may find more there.

Anyone know a good, reliable, MA supplier in Canada? Everything from uniforms, weapons, gear, etc? Thanks.

4 1/2 hours per week in class, same for the gym. Also whenever I get some free time I'll do work on kata.

Here you go: http://www.peijka.ca

Thanks

Yes, congrats. Its always a great feeling

Our Sensei has us go through a mock grading while recording it. However there is a slight differnce. While the examiner asks that we perform 3-4 techniques, we are asked for double or triple that. So if the examiner is asking for 3 chudan-level punches while moving forward, we do 6; then from another angle. This prepares us for the examination a little better, IMO. Afterward we get to watch the recording where we painstakingly go over the techniques. The use of constructive criticism and coaching at this point is invaluble since you can see where you've been going wrong. We do this recording every two weeks in the two months leading up to the examination, so we get to see our progress. This, mixed with the practicing of the bunkai, drills, and a lot of kata practice seem to make a great mix. No superstitions but each time I've gone to a grading in another province I've gotten lost...LOL

Just to ensure its tight and not fraying, don't want anything getting caught up or falling off; but you're probably already aware of that.

Any nunchucku katas, or is it more of a freestyle weapon?

I have but that guy was drunk

Anything else from anyone? All info is good info.

Good luck, Ant! Remember, if you can't hear what the examiner is saying, do not be afraid to ask them to repeat themselves.

On and off for 10. Since January I've been 100% committed for the rest of my life.

That is an excellent suggestion, aefibird! Thanks!

Wow, thanks WW...that was...intriguing.

I eventually want to become an instructor of my style, Shotokan. It is a goal that I have set for myself, and I will eventually reach it. So, that said, do any of you have any suggestions, tips, or pretty much anything that will aide me in reaching my goal? For example, is there anything you would have done differently, or perhaps not done at all? Conversely, was there anything that you wish you had done while on the road to becoming an instructor?

I'm familiar with this one, now. After a little practice, we had this difficulty as well. If you look close, you can see there is a subtle movement. During the turn, the right arm comes in slightly (as if you are flexing your right bicept) which causes the bo to come in slightly on top and the bottom now leads into the end of the turn.

Anyone have a pair of Chizikunbo?

Don't the marines have a style similar to Issinryu now, but just different enough to call it their own?

Respect. Another aspect I've noticed as well. I find I'm being respectful to those around me a little more.

There is an Isshinryu dojo in my town and I've not heard anything bad about it.

I feel the same way.

Jade, you may want to take a look at this book: Advanced Karate-Do by Elmar T. Schmeisser, Ph.D. It gets into Hip Power, Focus, Timing, Linkage and Breath. Also in this book are the katas broken down into breathing forms.

Well that's what the main purpose of the bunkai is, isn't it? To have the opponents surrounding you while you perform the movements, actually attacking you so you know how to block and counter effectively, is a big step in understanding much of the forms.