TRAINING
The Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate techniques practiced by TOGKF Hungary are integrated into a holistic training system. We strictly adhere to the teachings of Miyagi Chojun Bushi while also incorporating the latest sports science methods into our training.
Note: All instructors speak at least three languages. Therefore, the training sessions are conducted in Hungarian/German/English.
STRUCTURE OF TRAINING SESSIONS
Junbi Undo, also known as Yobi Undo (Warm-up/Preparatory Exercises)
A system developed by Miyagi Chojun based on intensive personal research and consultation with doctors. Starting from the toes (which are the furthest from the heart), we move all parts of the body, warming up, loosening, and stretching the muscles, tendons, and joints. The warm-up already includes preparatory exercises for the subsequent techniques, for example, hiza geri (knee strike) itself prepares for mae geri (front kick); tora guchi (tiger mouth) includes several block and palm techniques; exercises like ten tsuki and furi sute prepare for the relevant techniques in kata and bunkai (applications).
Kihon (Basics)
The purpose of the basics is for the karateka to learn individual techniques and their combinations. The basics must be practiced repeatedly to ensure that no mistakes occur and that ineffective or even harmful movements do not develop. The basics teach the combinations of strikes, kicks, stances, blocks, and defensive techniques, as well as movements and technique combinations in various stances.
Kata
The essence of the Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate-do style (gokui) lies in its katas. Kata allows for the harmonization of basic techniques and the development of effective and efficient self-defense (bunkai). As Higaonna Morio Shihan says: „It is not the kata that should be adjusted to the karateka’s body, but the karateka’s body to the kata.”
The katas of Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate-do can be divided into Haishugata (literally: closed fist – hardness) and Kaishugata (open fist – softness).
Haishugata
Sanchin
Tensho
Kaishugata
Gekisaidai Ichi
Gekisaidai Ni
Saifa
Seyunchin
Shisochin
Sanseru
Sepai
Kururunfa
Seisan
Suparinpei
Kata Bunkai (Applications)
The applications of kata can be divided into Kihon Bunkai and Oyo Bunkai. Kihon Bunkai refers to basic applications and effective self-defense techniques. Oyo Bunkai involves the application of variations and combinations for advanced karate practitioners.
Kumite (Sparring)
Based on previously learned techniques, the karateka can engage in sparring. Sparring can include Ippon Kumite, Yakusoku Kumite, and Iri Kumi (continuous sparring).
Ippon Kumite: Involves predetermined individual attacks, to which the karateka typically responds with a single evasion move, block, and counterattack.
Yakusoku Kumite: An advanced form of Ippon Kumite where more complex and varied, yet still pre-agreed, attacks and defenses are practiced.
Iri Kumi: Resembles longer sparring sessions between two karate practitioners. The focus is primarily on the practical application of techniques learned so far, in controlled conditions. For advanced karatekas, the training can proceed with almost full force.
Additionally, for close combat situations, Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate teaches Kakie (literally: sticky hands). These movements are similar to the lat sao techniques in Kung Fu. However, in Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate-do training, the goal is also to strengthen the upper body muscles, especially the shoulders, and to develop a sense of balance. Starting with basic movements, we teach and practice close combat self-defense techniques.
Hojo Undo (Supplementary/Strengthening Exercises)
Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate-do includes various supplementary exercises that strengthen the muscles and joints of the body, thereby enhancing karate-specific movements. These exercises can be categorized into two types:
1. Bodyweight Exercises: These include movements such as jumping lunges, „tiger” push-ups, explosive push-ups, backward „bicycling,” etc.
2. Traditional Training Tools: These are tools brought from China by the ancient masters, with the exception of Kongoken.
The most important tools are:
Chishi: Stone weights on wooden handles.
Kongoken: An oval metal ring.
Nigiri Game: Clay gripping jars.
Additionally, training utilizes punching pads and shields, as well as the traditional Makiwara (striking post), which is used to develop correct stances, proper technique, speed, focus, and effective striking power.