Individualized Instruction
80% to 90% of the actual learning process is done on a one to one basis between the student and a professionally trained black belt instructor and his direct assistants allowing the student to learn at his own rate, thus aiding in the students ability to truly understand what has been learned.
Air Shield
An air shield is a typically a nylon re-enforced inner tube that is primarily used as a kicking target. Because it is an inner tube it is soft and makes an excellent first contact for beginners. By kicking a soft target the beginner karate student can learn to kick and strike properly without fear of injury to their self.
Heavy Bag
The heavy bag commonly associated with boxing and martial arts training is a primary training tool. The heavy bag is very similar to lifting weights. The more you do a particular strike, punch, kick or block on the heavy bag; the stronger that technique will become.
Focus Mits/Muai Tai Pads
Focus mits and Muai Tai pads are very useful for improving accuracy of karate technique. They are useful for putting together combinations that are applicable in real combat situations. The pads can be moved during combinations allowing the student to practice striking different areas in sequence.
Makiwara
The makiwara is traditional karate training tool that is not found in many western dojos. There are many different designs for makiwara but the concept behind the makiwara is the same. The makiwara is a post made of wood and wrapped with minimal padding built to withstand 100,000 strikes. When the karateka strikes the makiwara shock it sent into the makiwara and back into the karateka teaching them to absorb shock and follow thru with technique. The striking post toughens the points of the body that are used for striking such as knuckles, elbows and the balls of the foot. More info about Makiwara.
Weapons
Weapons training is limited to senior/advanced students. We feel that you first need to learn how to control your body before you attach something to it. The Koei-Kan weapons training includes:
- Nunchaku – Originally a flail used to thresh rice or grain.
- Bo – Staff
- Sai – Possible origins are pitchfork or locking pin used to hold cart wheels in place.
- Tonfa - Mill wheel handle. Commonly used by police as a baton.
- Nicho Gama – Sickle used for cutting rice or other crops. More commonly referred to as Kama.
Formal Classes
Formal Classes take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon to 1 p.m. and from 6 to 7 p.m. They provide a tremendous cardiovascular workout. They are physically and mentally demanding. They also give the student a preview into more advance techniques and combinations of techniques. No two classes are a like and their diversity sets them apart from many other karate schools. If you go to these classes on a regular basis your going to be in shape guaranteed!
Sparring
Koei-Kan Karate utilizes several different kinds of sparring. It is one of the many things that sets Koei-Kan apart for other systems of martial arts.
- One Step Sparring (Ippon Kumite) – A set pattern of attack that allows the defender to practice blocking, dodging, striking, punching and kicking.
- Give and Take Sparring (Renzoku Kumite) – This form of sparring is done in a straight line. Opponents take turn attacking and defending. This allow you both to focus on attacks and defense separately.
- Free Sparring (Ju Kumite) – Opponents are free to move around attack and defend at will
- Bogu Gumite (sparring with armor protection)- This type of sparring is unique to the Koei-Kan system. The most advance type of karate fighting. During Bogu Gumite a student with protective gear has an opportunity to really demostrate the true power of Karate, without fear of injury to his opponent or to himself. This advanced form of fighting is part of Koei – Kan training devised to teach students the reality of blocking and striking just as if they were engaged is life and death combat. The art of Bogu Gumite, when developed to its fullest potential, is a true test of a student’s striking, punching and kicking skills.
