Traditional Technique Vs. What works best for you

[marie curie]

I was just wondering what people think about the idea of practicing perfect traditional technique versus going with those which work best for the individual.

[ps1]

Kind of a tough question since the purpose of practicing "standard traditional technique" is to learn about your body well enough to determine what "works best for you." After which, it would not make sence to practice it another way.

We tend to always teach it in a standard method because that is usually the least complicated way to learn the basics of the technique. Afterall (as I'm sure you know) what works best for me may not work for you.

[Menjo]

My view is similar to above. That the "perfect traditional" is meant for training, most or all martial arts encourage self development in technique and appling what is good for you. I train in my shotokan deep stances, but will i ever break down into a full Zenkutsu Dachi when forced into a real life situation?

My point is that the traditional techniques that are trained with, are meant to develop your own body and what works for you, while using these "traditional" techniques in a sparring situation. That is also why I find it important to practice sparring.

[UseoForce]

my sig says it all

[MartialArthur]

Traditional techniques are part of training.

In sparring or fighting, use what works, which may include some traditional techniques.

..

[ninjanurse]

Kind of a tough question since the purpose of practicing "standard traditional technique" is to learn about your body well enough to determine what "works best for you." After which, it would not make sence to practice it another way.

My sentiments exactly.

[gheinisch]

I agree with the others here. Our Hanshi shows us how he was taught, which was in a very traditional school and have us do it that way, however I sometimes end up doing some of the techniques a little bit different. Not on purpose, just because it's what comes more naturally too me. He doesn't get mad at me but will ask me way I'm doing it that way and explain way it feels better for me. We look at the advantages and disadvantages of both ways and he usually will say if it works for you then go with it. Sometimes he will say that no that is wrong and here's why, and I'll make the adjustment. There's not a right way and a wrong way to do something. Maybe a better way though.

[UseoForce]

martial arthur, you train as you fight, and vice versa.