It is my belief
that we should study the dynamic martial art of
karate as an effective fighting art designed to end
conflict quickly and effectively. This makes it an
ideal self defence method for children and adults as
well as a method of physical and mental fitness
training.
Karate is far more
than a fitness regime or martial sport. My method of
training incorporates practical applications for
every aspect of karate including Kata, basics and
combinations as well as the more traditional
training seen in most karate clubs. In our karate
training we should question everything and
constantly strive to improve our technical knowledge
and martial capabilities through diligent training
and study.
John
Aylward
C l u b N o t e s
Regular
Karate Training in
Loreto Sports Complex
Tue. 6.30pm – 8.30 pm Karate Beginner
to Black Belt.
Thur. 6.30pm – 8.30 pm Karate Beginner to
Black Belt.
A warm welcome is extended to all
our students as our new training season gathers
momentum. No doubt there were a few aches and pains
after the first couple of training sessions but
these will soon vanish as the training continues.
Remember keep stretching between classes and
practice what u can. Each training session is part
of a course of sessions building on the previous one
and preparing you for the next session. For every
training session you fail to attend your training
retreats by a couple of sessions. So train regularly
if you are to progress rapidly. Do not be afraid to
make mistakes but do your best.
Potential squad members are
reminded that they are required to attend at both
club training sessions each week as well as the
national squad sessions. Our next round of grading
examinations will take place in December with Sensei
Murakami here in Clonmel. Please be warned Sensei
Murakami will be taking no prisoners and expects a
high standard of performance from all grading
candidates. So now is the time to start your
preparations. To be successful we must get our
priorities right and train regularly with the
examinations in mind.
Applications.
Our new beginners are busy
learning the first form or Kata Heian Shodan. In
this training season we will be studying the
practical applications of this kata which includes
kyusho strikes, grappling kicks and take downs as
well as strikes. Even our junior members are
literally getting to grips with each other on
Thursday nights. All our members are required to
understand and demonstrate the practical
applications of our kata as well as the skilled solo
demonstration of these important drills. Each
training session in the season we will be working
our way up through these kata step by step to show
you the practical nature of these forms. Your karate
in my opinion is not complete without this
knowledge. Trophies are nice but they will not save
you unless you use them to hit your attacker. Too
many students of modern karate can perform kata
but do not have a clue about the real meaning of the
moves. We are a fighting art not a dancing
art.
Tai Chi Workshop
As well as our regular karate
classes we also run classes in the Chinese Martial
Art of Tai Chi Chuan every Saturday morning at 7.30
am. On Monday 22nd. September we will be hosting a
special Tai Chi Workshop for all adults who are
interested in learning this gentle form of exercise.
No experience is necessary as we will take you
through a thorough warm up routine to loosen the
body and get your energy flowing.
Our Saturday morning class has
been progressing steadily over the past year so now
we have decided to set up a new introductory
beginners session on Monday nights. All are welcome
just bring loose warm clothing and training shoes.
The class is open to both men and women of all ages
and fitness levels. Tai Chi is a slow relaxing art
ideal for dealing with the stresses and strains of
modern living. This work shop will be a relaxed
informal class with an emphasis on enjoyment and
relaxation. Please feel free to give us a call leave
a message or text or e mail.
After a three week break over
the summer months the members of Shotokan Karate
Clonmel are returning to training with renewed
vigour and enthusiasm. All traditional Shotokan
training will continue each Tuesday and Thursday
evening in Loreto Sports Complex at 6.30pm from
Tuesday 26th August 2008.
Beginners Welcome
Now is an excellent time for prospective new members
to visit us and try out a training session. All our
students and black belts both young and not so young
train together for warm ups and basic training
beginning at 6.30pm. As the class progresses the
class will be divided in order to practice various
techniques specific to the student’s ability and
experience. We cater for all ages from six to
“sixty” and beyond. Karate is a martial art suitable
for all ages and all students are encouraged to
train to the best of their ability. We are not an
elitist group where only the most skilled and
determined may apply. We are for everybody who wants
to train. Be warned though! Karate is an art form
which takes time to perfect and master! In this
modern era it is an invaluable self defence system
and exercise programme. Adult beginners may join our
classes at 6.30pm on both nights while kids are
encouraged to train on Thursday nights. Beginners
train for an hour each night while the more advanced
grades train for two hours. Annual membership forms
will be distributed to all students and we would ask
that you return these with the appropriate fees as
soon as possible.
Shotokan Karate Clonmel (Founded 1973) are affiliated
to:
Shotokan Karate International Ireland
Shotokan Karate International Federation (S.K.I.F.)
Official National Amateur Karate Association of Ireland.
(O.N.A.K.A.I.)
