Karate

Sanchin kata is a fundamental practice in Ko-do Ryu. It integrates mind, body, and spirit through intense muscular control, proper breathing techniques, and a distinctive stance. Practicing Sanchin kata offers numerous benefits, including improved breathing and posture, enhanced muscle tone, increased focus and mental clarity, stress reduction, and the development of internal energy (ki or chi). It is a holistic exercise that strengthens the body and mind, making it a valuable foundation for Karate.

Rokushu kata, is a series of six variations on the Sanchin theme. It focuses on grip escapes and counter strategies to control an opponent's arms during pushing hands. The kata enhances natural control and grasping of the arms, improving posture and balance. Rokushu's techniques include Snake, Tiger, Leopard, Standing-dragon, Laying-dragon, and Crane's wing. Practicing Rokushu helps identify and correct left/right bias and inconsistencies, helping to balance the body, ensuring that the techniques are effective and the practitioner's posture and balance are not compromised.

Pushing Hands is a practice used to train contact or touch reflexes, which are faster and more reliable than visual reflexes. It helps develop good defensive skills and is closely tied to listening techniques, which depend on the sense of touch. Pushing Hands drills are used to read an opponent's strengths and weaknesses and determine the nature and direction of any attack. This practice allows for spontaneous expression of techniques without pre-arrangement. It is a reciprocal, non-competitive technique executed in pairs.

Naihanchin kata, is a traditional Karate form that focuses on grappling and restraining techniques rather than striking. It involves a series of crossed-arm movements designed to subdue and control an opponent without losing contact. The kata emphasizes non-brutal methods to negate an opponent's attempts to escape, using techniques like tumbling and locking. Benefits include improved grip strength, enhanced control over an opponent, and the ability to maintain composure and dignity during physical confrontations.