Efficiently Applying Effect, Without Wasted Motion

  I was recently reading several articles (written by “martial artists”) about energy transfer, and efficiency in striking and the mathematics of energy/momentum etc. All of which, was... interesting. My problem with them being, who cares?

   

  Don't get me wrong, I find each of those subjects interesting. I'm just not convinced as to whether the degree to which these individual's were taking their own speculations, was beneficial, or detrimental? (in regards to my own training). Specifically in regards to how (they believed) that they were applying that energy.

   

  Between the different articles, there was a cluster of formula's being bantered about (with conflicting arguments as to which were actually applicable). Each had it's valid point, but each also had a fault with the viewpoint (hence the arguments over which formulas were valid , and when).

   

  Some of Taika's lectures give one the impression that he has had specific academic tutelage over the given subject (his understanding is that good, LOL). The difference between one of Taika's explanations and one of those commonly found on the internet, is that Taika's are in layman's terms. His lectures are rarely complicated and/or involved (technically).

    

  From listening to, and studying from Taika, one of the (many) things I've learned, is that something doesn't have to be complicated, to be effective. It doesn't matter what time, or day of the week it is, Or if some location is associated to dog nuts, or motor oil. As long as you strike the right location at the correct angle, you'll get the result your after.

    

  I've recently had my student's working on (their own) motions being (more so) focused upon being made towards the aggressor (during a confrontation, and/or during practice). My reason for doing so, began with a mistake that I was observing (many of) them make during their partnered practice. 

     

  Now granted, it's not like this problem began out of the blue or anything. They'd been doing this for awhile. I hadn't stressed it's correction before, because (frankly) they had greater problems with their technique execution to concentrate upon than this one (you can't fix everything at once! LOL).

   

  This problem, had to do with chasing the striking hand's wrist. Even though we slow our practice down (to a very controllable speed), the tori tends to chase the striking hand (with their own).

   

  I'm not (exactly) sure why a student seems to believe that a striking arm, can (only) be controlled by moving the wrist of that arm? Anywhere from just beyond the shoulder (upon the upper arm) to anywhere down to the wrist, will motion that entire arm away from it's intended target.

   

  Yet, despite being (repeatedly, LOL) told, as well as shown this fact, student's will still attempt to “catch” that striking wrist (in order to motion the striking arm away).

   

  Well, seeing that simple suggestive verbal guidance wasn't going to fix the problem, I began having student's practice placing their (same side) hand upon the uke's striking upper arm/shoulder. This motion raises from the side (where the hand/arm has been “hanging” loosely) ala “el natural”.

    

  As the arm is extended (toward the uke) and raised (open-hand, palm toward the uke's center), the tori will focus upon that hand being placed upon the outer/radial side of the striking arm. As the uke is raising their arm, the tori will cross their own extended arm's hand over the top (in front) of the uke's striking arm. That hand/arm will continue it's crossing/downward motion towards the uke's solar-plexus region (initially, by sliding open-handed down the uke's chest).

    

  What seems to be most discerning to student's, is that there's no (aggressive?) forcefulness being applied to the (initial) motion. It should also be noted, that this is but only 1 piece of the entire defensive action. My eventual intent, is to emphasize each individual component of the entire defensive sequence.

    

  Commonly, this initial motion is pretty simple for student's to perform. It can be done with either hand (for their respective arms), but, for the (intended) entire technique, each hand will be performing separate motions (and So begins the student Drama, LOL).

   

  Once the same-side's arm motion has been practiced, we add the opposite side's arm motion (which naturally, is different). That arm's motion begins by motioning laterally (in front of the groin), pivoting mainly at the elbow, and raising in front of the tori (a few inches away from the body while it does so).

    

  Once the forearm is vertical, it is extended forward (by motioning the elbow of that arm forward). This extension continues only a short distance (the arm overall, should not completely straighten). When performed in this manner (if the uke should have thrown a Left punch towards the head of the tori), the tori's Left hand will (either) end up striking the uke's upper-arm (just above the elbow, on the medial side), or will project over the top of that arm, nullifying it's ability to continue the extension necessary to strike the tori (in the face, or otherwise).

    

  Though requiring several paragraphs to write-out, the described motion is actually easy to perform. Student's have the most problem with it, when they attempt to do (something) specific with it (the motion). Instead of performing the motion (and dealing with the resultant outcome), they attempt to do something specific with it (while not changing the practiced/performed motions). 

(I know, confusing to understand what's written here, LOL)

    

  The motion has the designed capability to be modified in it's response to several different/common defensive scenario’s. None of which require a change in the motions initial actions.

   

  This (of course) doesn't mean that a student won't have to practice all those different possible responses/situations (in order to be able to utilize them).

    

  This (combined) motion is simply a building block for further applications. It acclimates the student to performing different actions with either hand (at one time). At later stages, the student incorporates body motion, and includes a straight kick. Each of these variables changes (both) the aggressor's and the defender's abilities (both pro and con).

   

  As each variable is included (and studied) the student will better understand the effect and the required effort to affect those variables. Efficiency is not only about one ingredient in an equation. It is the over-all summation of those ingredients, and their combined effectiveness. 

 

Withholding Knowledge

  When I first began studying Shito-Ryu, my instructor had made passing mention that when I began to teach (my own) students, that I should always refrain from telling them everything, I should keep something in reserve for myself.

 

  I would hope, that this comes across as being as freaking paranoid to everyone else, as it did to me. I understood his intention (at the time), but I still didn't agree with it. If anything, it prompted me to do the opposite! I attempt to show my student's everything that I know (as soon as their able to understand it anyway, LOL).

    

  I have to presume that he had constant concerns over his student's “challenging” him? (who knows). He taught in Kansas City at a time when Martial Arts was a big business (early-mid “70's”). It was common for competing schools to (physically) Beat an instructor out-of-business. 

     

  Somehow the whole idea that a student, would be able (or would even want) to challenge their instructor just seems, ...childish? To me, it sounds (more) like the instructor had some really poor judgment skills when accepting students, and frankly, Who wins that argument? If the instructor wins a confrontation (as you would presume them to), so what? (they defeated a student, LOL). Their judgment in students is now in question. If the student wins, does that imply that the teacher must Really be good? Or that the instructor sucks? (uh, but he taught the student?). In any event, not something I concern myself with.

   

  The (only recent) revival in the study/research of kata, has placed the spotlight upon the fact that many (if not most) systems don't really know what their kata motions represent. Could this (in fact) be a result of this withholding information attitude?

   

  The idea that withholding knowledge should even be considered, is (to myself) an idea that guarantees a martial art system to become terminal. With that sort of mentality, there's no other option for the system. Given only a dozen generations of student's, the system would have numerous “gaps” in it's instruction (hmm...sound familiar?).

   

  Not to be confusing, but not withholding information, doesn't mean that a student is told everything (all at once). That would actually prove to be a counter-productive gesture. Too much detail/information (very) often will only be seen (by the student) as being confusing.

   

  In hind-site, I believe my Shito-Ryu instructor was lacking (in many regards, LOL) in his instructional knowledge. When I began my study with Taika, I would ask numerous questions. He answered a great many of them until (I believe) he got sick of hearing me, LOL, and told me to study the kata (to find my own answers).

  

  When I would believe that I had discovered some tid-bit of knowledge, I would present it to Taika, who would either confirm it or turn and shake his head in disgust while walking away from me (yes, that happened a LOT, LOL). 

     

  I was watching the “I am Bruce Lee” movie recently, and I was listening to these various people comment about him, and the things that he said and did. Some I agreed with (a lot I didn't), but the majority of what he (Mr. Lee) attempted to do, was erase the self-imposed barrier's between systems/styles (he was fervently against “styles”).

   

  When I first began my training with Taika, one thing he always emphasized, was that all systems were the same. He preferred that you had studied an Okinawan or Japanese (same thing) style when you started with him (less changes to be made in what/how you did things).

   

  In Taika's viewpoint, it didn't matter what system you studied. You were a human being. Your body could only move in a specific manor. Regardless of what system you trained in, you still could only move in that manner. Your bodies weaknesses were the same as anybody else.

   

  In many ways, what Taika taught, was exactly what Bruce Lee was always talking about. I've also been present when Taika was asked about Bruce Lee. Taika kind of shrugged his shoulder's and said “he was an actor, I see nothing special”. I have also seen Taika perform (his own version of?) the 1” punch, and explain how it's done (he used to do it regularly at seminars, LOL).

   

  Of the multitudes of people that I have watched come and go from Taika's tutelage, the trait that has proven most successful, is that of patients. Taika has never been one to get in a hurry (with much of anything, LOL). His claim, is that we (westerner's) are too slow to pick-up on what he is trying to convey to us.

  

  From my own exposure (to him), I would have to (reluctantly) agree. Every single time that he has revealed some earth-changing parcel of information, his claim has been that he has always done it that way (but we never picked up on it). There's always those who wish to claim that it's just not so, that he has just kept it secret, that he doesn't want anyone else to figure it out.........Bullshit.

  

  I have copies of Video shot in the mid-late 70's (and yes, I've specifically looked), he DID always do those things, and NO we just didn't pick-up on it. Taika doesn't restrict information from what he's teaching, he just doesn't shove it up your ass (like you'd like him to) in order for you to understand it.

   

  I truly believe that Taika does some of it on purpose to weed-out a number of the dingle-berry's that aren't quite up to snuff! (which was proven by the exodus of the last group of thieves who were purged). He's been forced (by those individual's actions) to empty the association of those whom don't wish to learn what (and how) he has chosen to convey his knowledge unto his student's.

   

  Taika teaches by example, this is a concept that is only moderately understood today. The practitioner's of today, are too involved with obtaining their next “Dan-Rank” so they can rename themselves SUPREME ROOSTER VACUME/SWALLOWER (or something).

   

  Westerner's have (once again, sigh...) proven that they are Lazy. We want it all handed to us (on a silver plate, with a side of wine). When I tell my own students, to work on something for a week, you'd of thought I just proclaimed a life-sentence upon them, LOL.

  The really sad part (IMO), is that it isn't that Taika makes anybody do anything (too outrageous) out of the ordinary. Very often, simple observation, and consideration of the presented situation/problem can lead one to the answer that they seek (then on to the next conundrum, LOL). 

 

What a Freakin' Pain in the Neck

  The most whored-out aspect of being involved with the practice of RyuTe, is the public infatuation with Taika's K.O. Strikes. Although these constitute a very small portion of what is taught/learned in the RyuTe system, it (obviously) garners an unfair portion of attention.

   

  First off, they are greatly misunderstood, what is generally seen, is the demonstration of a neck-strike being applied to a willing recipient. They are being performed to demonstrate that everyone is susceptible to certain manors of being struck, and that strength is not the main factor in their use (or in their effectiveness).

  

  Anyone who (attempts to) emphasize Chi/Ki or any other wanna-be (magical) nonsense as being relevant to their application, is LYING TO YOU. There's nothing “magical” about it. Yes, I could go into all the medical reasons that the reaction occurs, but why? I am not a neurologist (so why should you believe me?). There are plenty of medical resources on the internet, look it up for yourself. The only difficult part of finding out, is knowing how to ask the right questions.

  

  The majority of the naysayer’s, are those whom have never even experienced those strikes (as the recipient). They determine their opinions based only upon their visual experience (of the event).

   

  The most popular argument against the ability to even utilize these strikes, are based on the claim that they can't be implemented during a confrontation (to myself, this one is especially stupid).

   

  The difficulty doesn't lay with the ability to do them, but when to do them. If your still playing the sparring game, you will (have far more serious problems, LOL) rarely (ever) be able to utilize these types of strikes. The physical dynamics (of either the tori or uke) necessary when attempting them, are dependent upon the actions that occur during that situation and don't usually allow for their implementation (and still prove to be effective). 

    

  Every example which I have seen done (both in person, and on video) by person's outside of the RyuTe Association, have been heavy-handed (and not in a good way, LOL) attempts to use brute force to accomplish that attempt. Considering that the common implementer (of those attempts) is someone with minimal to NO experience (with physical confrontations), they make incorrect assumptions about how to apply those strikes.

  

  There's also the prominent (and valid) concern with physical injury/damage being done from repeatedly receiving those (types of) strikes. Having received those strikes myself, from Taika (and even from my associate, LOL), physical damage is rarely a concern. Beyond the (mental) shock from the initial impact, the physical concern over receiving those strikes (when/if done properly) is usually minimal (and the effects dissipate rather quickly).

   

  Student's often are under the mistaken assumption that any reception of those (types of) strikes will create some type of (?) permanent damage. As with any physical activity, the possibility of incurring an injury is always present, especially when practicing any form of martial art.

   

  What I find strange, are those that feel that participating in (fully-geared) sparring, (done at full power) is “safe”, while receiving any manor of point strikes, are dangerous? If that were so, wouldn't those fully protected professional Football players be in perfect health when their careers are over?

    

  The only time that these neck strikes should be considered risky/dangerous, is when the applier is using excessive power to apply the strike (in order to accomplish any result). A total “knockout” is a ridiculous and/or dangerous goal to be attempting anyhow.

   

  A momentary “fuzz” or “light-headed” result, is a more than sufficient result for a lightly applied strike. These light strikes are far more practical (and predictable) in an actual confrontation. They are additionally much easier to accomplish than the much touted knock-out strikes are. Of course, the “KO” result can also be accomplished with those Light-handed strikes, they only require greater precision.

   

  An additional problem that comes with the heavy handed approach, is the resultant bruising and skin abrasions (along with split-lips/eye-brows/cheeks/ears etc.). Any manor of liquid (like) substance that comes out of an aggressor, posses a potential threat to the defender's physical well-being. Maybe not in those initial moments of a confrontation, but possibly in the months following that confrontation.

   

  Somehow, being able to state that you Won a confrontation, then fall victim to the effects of a body-fluid based pathogen that the aggressor infected you with, is a bit pathetic (considering there's rarely a need to intentionally create blood-flow from an aggressor).

   

  Anyone who's ever been involved in a physical confrontation, is aware of the fact that cuts, and the subsequent bleeding from them, are a very possible occurrence. This is the fallacy of the ground and pound (idiot's), and honestly, is the reason I'm not too keen on working out with them.

    

  I have enough friends and family member's involved in the medical field, that I'm very aware of the risks involved with those possibilities. For that reason when I'm confronted with someone who wants to argue that point strikes and Tuite manipulations are a waste of their time, I usually want little to do with that individual.

   

  Aside from the potential viral effects of this blood-letting, the legal implications from unnecessarily causing an aggressor to bleed (or at least leak fluids of any form) are rarely worth their occurrence, even for the potential entertainment value (intentional or otherwise).

   

  Working with L.E. Over the years has also brought to my attention the greater awareness and importance, of the post-confrontation encounter/interview between yourself and L.E. Officer's. If/when that (supposed) aggressor is covered with (what are potentially) unnecessary injuries, it may become difficult to argue that they were necessary. One should always assume that everything they do to that aggressor, will potentially be used against them in a court of law.

   

  To myself, this only adds to the viability of the practice of these (types of) strikes. Unless applied in the manor that the amateur’s use them (with brute force), they leave only minor (if any) traces of their implementation, and minimal (again, if any) apparent surface trauma. Utilized in the manor Taika has clearly demonstrated (lightly), these strikes would rarely cause sufficient permanent damage to warrant concern, yet will obviously suffice to create effect.

   

  It should be understood that this by no means, implies that any light tap upon an aggressor's neck can/would or even could cause a sufficient reaction to aid the tori in defending themselves. Neck strikes are nothing more, or less, than yet another technique to be utilized as applicable if the opportunity presents itself. They are not effective when performed haphazardly, or without practiced intent.

    

  Regardless how they're presented to student's for practice, it should be understood that they are nothing more (or less) than another technique to be used as needed. They are not the end-all epitome of the available techniques. There are numerous other techniques available that are arguably more practical.

     

  Though neck strikes may be impressive, there are many factors that have to come into play before they can be efficiently applied. This is why they are (generally) not taught until a student has learned a majority of the more basic motions. 

 

The Web We Weave...

  Several of the student's that I teach have reached a level of understanding that I can (now) begin to have them work on Taika's exercise for technique motion/application.

    

  Though not pushing them directly into performing this exercise, I am easing them into it (through some familiarization exercises). Though similar to a kata, Taika's exercise is a direct replication of technique motions applied to various (and common) examples of attack methods.

     

  Unlike a (common) kata, the student is familiar with the motions that they are performing (while going through the exercise). They are knowledgeable about the movement's meanings. It isn't a blind exercise of motion that so many commonly practiced kata are (or become).

   

  The development of Taika's exercise came about over years of refining it to it's final form. It is a simple alternation of practiced motions that are applicable for numerous commonly encountered assault motions.

   

  Though the practice of kata is usually hailed as being the “practice method” for techniques, kata are really more akin to being a parts catalog, than an assembly manual. The kata motions illustrate techniques, and only occasionally how they are (or should be) performed.

   

  What they don't always do, is illustrate the situation that the motion would/should or even could be used in. Kata motions usually display a hint of the aggressor and/or the defender for reference purposes only. It's virtually always up to the practitioner to know how to apply those motions.

     

  This exercise guides the student through numerous defenses from frontal assaults, as well as those from the rear. None of the responses are either complicated, nor unfamiliar to the average RyuTe student.

    

  Unlike previously taught/practiced exercises (in our classes), this routine is focused towards being performed with a  higher speed (once the basic motion is understood). That doesn't imply that one can be sloppy with it's execution, only that to succeed at accomplishing the applications, they can not be successfully performed at (only) a moderate speed.

    

  This routine was developed over (about) 10-15 years. Taika re-vamped it several times over that period until settling upon it's present form. Personally, I like the premiss of the exercise (the practice of technique motions that can be immediately applicable as practiced).

    

  BTW, The title I chose for this article, has somewhat of a double entendre, Those familiar with the TCM drivel, will leap right on anything that sounds like it's akin to any of their stuff (hence my reasoning, LOL). Taika's exercise is called “Spider-Web” (thus the blog name). The two have absolutely nothing in common with one other, but I've heard that several of those other groups have attempted to make an association (I only wish to dispel it, and/or taunt them about it, LOL).

Kata Bunkai is like Tofu

  When (any) two martial arts practitioner's get together, they will often compare the Bunkai of each. What is being shown, is what each practitioner feels is the most appropriate explanation (for themselves) in regards to the motion being illustrated.

  

  Each student of a martial art, doesn't study that art for the same reason. Many do so for sport, many also do so for exercise. I do so for Life Protection. What many interpret as bunkai, for my purposes would only be Bullshit. That doesn't make what they do wrong (necessarily), it's would just be wrong to/for Me (and what I teach).

   

  When student's ask me about the bunkai for a particular kata motion, I have to consider several things. First, what concepts, techniques and motions do they know that can be related to that motion, and how are they doing the motion.

  

  It should be clear to the reader (here), that there are numerous possible answers for every motion (no matter how small). For beginning student's, I (attempt to) keep the answers I provide, to being simple motions/techniques. Though sounding (somewhat) deceitful, it's actually a more accurate response (for the student).

   

  Somehow, person's have gotten the impression that every motion in a kata represents some elaborate/technical motion that only the divinely bestowed will understand (eh, ..not so much). Though numerous charlatan’s attempt to give the impression that that's the case, and they are the only way to gain this information, it isn't.

  

  Taika has said, each person will determine what the motions of the kata represents, to themselves. The bunkai and techniques that he teaches us, is from what his interpretations (from the kata motions) were. He doesn't say another interpretation is wrong (necessarily), but he can defend the logic/reason for his interpretation (and argue/debate why another isn't correct). 

     

  As student's of RyuTe, we study Taika's interpretations of the kata motions. We use them as guidelines for further research of those kata. The techniques that we are shown, we use for understanding how/why the body does/doesn't move.

  

  It isn't the quantity of techniques that are important, it's the quality of those techniques. Those motions are also (constantly) being improved. I've stated before, how techniques that were taught in the early 80's, when compared to how they are being performed now, are very different. Not because of a change of technique, but because of a change in the execution of that technique.

   

  Much of that change, comes from the study of kata. The culmination of the numerous minute motions made during the performance of kata, will (directly) effect the way one performs technique.

   

  This is why I consider kata Bunkai to be like Tofu. It depends on what you add it to, that determines the taste (result). If you view your bunkai as representing sparring, what you'll see, is sparring techniques. If you view it as being evasion techniques, that's what you will see. The difficulty comes when you attempt to justify those beliefs to anyone else.

   

  Any bunkai you present, has to be able to withstand the scrutiny and criticism’s of the rest of the martial arts community and/or your individual peer group. When Taika first came to the United States, NOBODY was teaching the kind of material that he was. Now (it seems like) EVERYBODY teaches tuite (as if they can even translate it, LOL), and kyusho. The biggest difference between Taika's and theirs, is the fact that he doesn't need to hide behind TCM, and whatever other nonsense they use to make excuses for why their versions don't work.

   

  Very often the results of the numerous bunkai that I've seen, turn's out to be also (like Tofu can very often taste), like Shit. 

 

It's All Going To Hell!

(and other forecasts of paranoid Doom & Gloom,.. update at 11 )

  Wow, I just finished reading a post that was absolutely filled with general assumptions and (the ever popular) knee-jerk reactionary responses. Equally surprising, was that it was from England. When I read it, my first assumption was that it was from some radical Right-wing American! LOL.

   

  This individual was crying (OK, lamenting....) over the corrupted youth of today, and how they have no respect for their seniors, blah, blah, blah. (Gee, I've never heard of that happening before). He also went on about weapons, and how the law is (obviously, LOL) tilted in favor of the criminal.

   

  There were numerous additional tidbits of “society gone bad”, but they all were summarized by how you (or your children) should attend this guy's martial arts classes (huh?, ..who da' thunk?).

    

  By chance, I had recently made passing mention (in a blog), of how martial arts advertisements in G.B. Weren't (quite) as bad as they are here (in the U.S.). Guess I just hadn't seen them.

   

  Regardless, this individual brought up commonly (miss)used statistics and assumptions regarding criminals, and criminal behavior. He was even pushing the previously discredited (American) L.E. Report about how often “fights”, go to the ground.

   

  Possibly because I instruct, and hang-out around “cops”, I'm more sensitive to statistic quoting when it's being used to justify some Right-field opinion (especially if/when the person pushing it, seeks to make a profit from it's acceptance).

    

  I have many problems with schools that attempt to scare people into wanting to attend classes. #1, it's just deceitful. Though learning to protect themselves, is commonly quoted as being the excuse for people use for attending a M.A. Class, Fear, is a more accurate description.

   

  More often (and more accurately) than not, that fear, is completely unjustified (and/or greatly exaggerated). I believe that if the aforementioned individual had been here (in the U.S.), he would of no-doubt (in my mind) been running a CCW (Concealed-Carry Weapon) Class (for firearms). Every piece of propaganda that he promoted, was based upon the same fear driven nonsense that those individual's here are following (and doing so in droves, LOL).

    

  Before anybody starts Peeing their pants about my anti-Concealed Carry statement, there's a few technical considerations to be made here. That statement is in regards to Missouri's CCW laws. They SUCK, and they were put-in by Amateur wanna-be Idiot's. I've bewailed elsewhere about the many, many things that were done wrong with those laws here (in Missouri) so I won't bother to readdress them again (and FWI, I'm also an ex-gunsmith and IPSC competitor).

    

  The desire to be efficient at protecting one's self, is a legitimate concern. Though no one can plan when or if they may be assaulted, one can have a plan for if that occurrence should happen.

    

  When persons approach me about studying, I usually ask them why they want to (and I'll ask them several different ways). What (eventually, LOL) comes out (from males), is that they always just thought it would be cool. This, I can relate to, LOL. For females, it's usually some event (be it to themselves, or someone they know) that prompts them to consider being able to protect themselves.

  

  What I tell either (male and/or female), is that it's a lot of work (on their part). No one else can do (any of) it for them. The study of Te, is an individual endeavor. Everyone progresses at a different rate/speed (their own). When they do learn something, the only person that's made learning that ability possible, is themselves.

     

  Now when all the marauding communist zombies begin their attack, just remember to duck and cover!  (because the only thing that will stop that sh&zbit!, is gonna be one of dim thar A-Bomber's! so stay under your desk) and keep abreast of the latest anti-zombie tactics illustrated on Walking Dead!

Mixing Sushi, and Fried Chicken....

  Having reviewed the general membership of the association (via the RyuTe website and viewing the listed web pages), I find it interesting that there are a number of Dojo that (still) teach another system in addition to teaching RyuTe.

   

  I find this extremely odd. I mean, I understand the need to generate funds to pay the bills, but beyond the instruction of children, why would you bother? (with those other systems). 

     

  I'm sure there are some who would read this and determine that I am being (extremely) biased. They would of course be correct, I am biased (and hold no reservations about being so). But beyond that bias, I've seen no system that compares to RyuTe (as far as self-and/or Life, Protection). If my interest was in “Sport” Karate, then I would have an only limited interest in RyuTe (it's a poor choice for training in that field). 

     

  The vast majority of RyuTe Yudansha are, and have been, converts from other systems. They commonly held some Yudansha level rank in those systems. This means that they didn't “come-up” through the Mudansha ranks in RyuTe, and (therefor) weren't exposed to the same training that would (usually) be received from having done so.

  

  When interested students observe these person's classes, they see what those instructor's have always taught (IE. Their previous system's teachings). People will tend to not change the little things in their instruction methods. They commonly don't (yet) realize that those little things, are what makes all the difference (in what's learned). 

     

  For example, they continue to have student's tuck their hands at their sides (when performing punching strikes). They have student's perform kicks and strikes the same as they always have taught. They haven't abandoned their previous teaching/learning methods. 

      

 Many of the individual's who have been expelled from the association, likewise never modified their prior (to beginning RyuTe) teachings (to emphasize the RyuTe methodology) Mostly, because they never had gone through learning those teachings methods themselves (being “bestowed” with their ranking when they joined the association).

    

  Taika had the regrettable habit of allowing newly converted student's to retain their prior rank. This (in turn) allowed a number of (we'll say) not so deserving individual's to procure undeserved rank, without having (actually) learned/experienced the RyuTe methodology of application that would of been subsequently procured.

    

  The majority of those individual's have since been purged from the association (and of course have since then also promoted themselves to higher “Dan” levels, including 10^th Dan, LOL). Even the most recently expelled hadn't attended any training in 10 years! Yet, they still “claim” those 10 years as having been time training with Taika?

   

  As far as retaining the instruction of a prior system (when the instructor has theoretically converted to RyuTe), I am at a loss. I don't really understand why. It would seem far more practical, to teach RyuTe, and offer those “sport karate” classes (as being optional) for those so inclined.

   

  RyuTe offers a “Sport” (Bogu) Kumite competition (though not everybody may be up to/for it, LOL). I (personally) don't participate in it anymore, or even instruct that manor of practice (I recommend to my students whom to go to in order to participate in it). It's focus isn't Self/Life Protection, so I don't want to waste my own (or my students) class time in regards to it.

   

  For those who transition to RyuTe, I only suggest that if they want to become proficient at RyuTe, they will have to abandon their prior methods (before they can become proficient at it). 

 

Prioritize Your Focus

  When I watch student's practicing our defensive combinations, I often see/hear student's complain about how they can't “catch/block/deflect” the aggressor's hand. This is a common difficulty for student's. I tell them to think of protecting themselves (instead of the aggressor's hand) as they perform the defensive motion (whatever that may be).

    

  Student's regularly attempt to (visually) focus upon whatever the aggressor is doing at the moment. At first, one would believe this to be a good thing (but not necessarily). The attempt to do this, is a re-active action. By attempting to do this, you are trying to play catch-up to every action the aggressor makes. Your defensive actions must become preventative (so those aggressive actions can't/don't occur to begin with).

    

  Taika explains it as when you “bat” a fly away from your face, you don't focus all your attention upon the fly. Your attention remains upon what-ever your doing at the time. An aggressor's hand, is like the fly, it's (often) too quick to see (hence, we focus upon the arm that's attempting to make that hand, strike us). The arm move's much slower, and less than the hand does (during any strike).

   

  When student's complain that an aggressor's arm moves too fast (to be struck), we show them that it doesn't (really) move that much at all. The hand, motions a great deal (and quickly too). But the arm (that actually makes the hand reach it's destination), doesn't traverse that much distance (nor at as great of a speed).

    

  This doesn't mean that the student doesn't (still) need to be quick with their own strikes (against that aggressor's arm), only that they don't need to spread their attention out over a larger area than is necessary.

    

  Taika says that we spend too much time practicing to protect the face. Protecting the face, is something that comes naturally. One should focus upon protecting the body (for/during practice). These strikes are far more difficult to defend against (yet we continually focus upon protecting the face).

   

  Because of this type of focus (upon the face), the protective strikes (commonly called “blocks”, LOL), are usually performed too high (and are often done above the stomach level!).

    

  As we attempt to prevent an aggressor's strike from impacting upon our body, we should be focusing upon our own body (it's where our concern generally lies anyhow). Protect those parts of the body that will disable you if/when they become damaged/injured.

    

  People (very often) are under the mistaken belief that RyuTe doesn't believe in preventing an aggressor's strike from hitting them (when re-phrased, that's exactly what they're saying, LOL). RyuTe's focus, is upon injuring the (aggressor's) arm that's attempting to injure us. There is a (huge) difference between those two statements.

    

  As student's (and actually, all of us) learn more, our priorities of focus (each individually) are modified accordingly. As you become more proficient with newly learned actions, you'll begin to incorporate those actions into your defensive repertoire.

     

  Practice those motions that you do poorly, and/or have the greatest concern for (and the least ability with). It serves no purpose to emphasize practice upon those skills which come easily to us or that we are already proficient at. Focus your practice upon those motions that don't come as naturally or easily (to you).

 

Cover Motions

  RyuTe often utilizes arm motions that intend to redirect an aggressor’s limbs. These motions are often made whether the aggressor has made the (specific) attempt yet or not (as they additionally serve other purposes as well).

   

  Though it would be easy to categorize these motions as (being) “blocks”, to do so would be misleading. Their intent is not to Stop (“block”) anything, they redirect.

  

  If you were to call them anything (else), a parry would be closer to being properly descriptive than anything. The only fault that “I” have with that name, is that it tends to give the impression that the motion (only) tosses away the aggressor's strike.

   

  The motions that we call “Forearm Strikes”, are what most systems call “Blocks”. Those motions are taught to our students for use as striking methods upon an aggressor's (attacking) limb. Though some will argue that this is a (boring) matter of semantics, accurately descriptive verbiage makes a difference (in how something is perceived).

   

  The motions that are taught as Cover Motions, come in two flavor's, Inside and Outside. These could be described as being Clockwise and/or Counter-Clockwise (which IMO, are more accurate, but are a little burdensome). Much like how our forearm strikes are distinguished, Inside, refers to being towards the center of the body, and Outside refers to being away from, or Outward from the center of the body.

   

  These motions begin at the performers side (arm hanging naturally). The motion begins with the hand crossing in front of the tori's groin area to the opposite hip, and then rising until it is at chin level, it will return back across the front of the tori's face/chin and then lower (returning to it's original position). The entire motion (initially) is done with only moderate flexion of the elbow being done (keeping the hand extended, and forward of the tori). These circular cover motions are used in forward, and reverse/rearward applications as well.

  

  As well as providing the user with arm momentum for redirecting and suppressing an aggressor's strike attempts, these cover motions are easily transitioned into striking and/or grappling applications.
Preferably, as/when contact is made (with an aggressor's striking arm), that contact is made as close to their shoulder as possible. This allows for the tori's hand to (both) motion the arm away from it's intended target, and to slide down the arm towards the wrist/hand (for manipulation purposes). 
  
 Keeping this contact in mind, it's important that the tori not "swing" their arms (widely) to either side when initially making these motions. The tori's (deflecting) arm will raise straight up/forward (towards the uke). motioning to either side, is the equivalent to "winding-up" (and serves no purpose).

  

  I have mentioned before that students are often stopping (freezing) during their technique practice. Part of that, comes from the use of limited motion techniques (strikes/blocks). The student only concerns themselves with making the attempted strike (not what they will do afterwords). When doing so, they often have to (consciously) think about what to do next (and therefor letting the arm lazily return to it's prior position).

  

  The use of these circular cover motions, allows for constant motion to be made (difficult for an aggressor to keep track of), and greater opportunities for manipulation and counter-striking applications to be performed.

  

  As well as providing greater opportunity for technique, these motions allow (if not mandate) the user to be relaxed. By being relaxed, greater speed is available to be utilized (a necessary ingredient in any defensive tactic).

What Do Your Defensive Motions Prevent?

  I recently asked some student's to show me their preferred (favorite if you will) defensive strike (“Block”). The majority stated that an inside forearm strike was usually preferred, but some leaned towards the outside forearm strike.

   

  Now contrary to (popular) belief, I didn't ask this question to put anybody on the spot. I asked it to get a idea of their perspective on protective motions (in general). As students, when we're shown a motion, we tend to view that motion/technique as being (somewhat) Iconic. As if they were set in stone, and it would be some form of blasphemy to deviate from that initially shown form.

    

  Kihon (basics), are just that, basics. They teach a fundamental motion and/or manor of performing that motion. That doesn't mean that they are (always) the end-all only way of performing that motion.

    

  When I received their answers to this question, I asked how it prevented/protected them from other types of strikes? (I know, a rather unfair question, LOL). The point (of my question), was to illustrate their own (self) limiting of their practice.

   

  When students are taught/shown an individual forearm strike, that motion is not the end-all motion of defensive tactics. It is intended to be utilized with additional motions (either by the same arm, or in conjunction with the other arm/legs.

    

  If you motion an arm (either) upward or downward, then across, and down or up, which type of forearm strike (block) have you performed? You've done all 3 (in one motion). Because these motions were taught individually, does not mean they can/should only be performed in that manner.

    

  When I point this out, I'm often told that I would be wasting movement, if I did all those motions (together). Really? Perform an inside forearm strike, then perform a downward forearm strike, then perform an upward forearm strike. After having done this, then perform one, inward sweeping motion that progresses down and let it circle back up to end in front of you, which motions were smoother, and faster? (and which of these motions protected you from different types of threats more completely).

    

  Taika says that “we” (meaning “us” students, LOL) are like children when we've been shown a technique/motion. We perform that motion a thousand times, but never work on how to apply it? We are taught a milking punch, but we understand that just moving one's wrist back and forth, doesn't do anything (until it's done at the end of a striking motion performed by the arm).

    

  The same problem occurs in kata practice. Students are consistently pausing during the performance of their kata. The (main) purpose of kata practice is the performance of motions (not necessarily techniques) in order to make them more natural when they are utilized. By including those (their own) pauses, they are creating the situation to occur during (actual) execution of those techniques.

    

  This is something that I (myself) am constantly monitoring (in my own kata execution). It's a big reason that Taika has us do application versions of the kata. This pausing contributes to how people come up with these odd (more like stupid) versions of bunkai that they present. They didn't even consider practicality when determining those techniques.

   

  If you take a student, and throw 10” (lightweight, LOL) plastic balls at them (without any other training), they'll learn to bat them away (similar to how a cat does). This is a natural motion. If you (progressively) decrease the size of those balls (to golf ball size), and have the student intend to hit them away (using any/all of the forearm primarily to do so) while doing so, you'll start to have a student who will now (begin to) use full-range covering motions (in deference to the aforementioned stuttering strikes/blocks). 

   
 While performing these actions, it makes the student's defensive strikes more natural and more inclusive (covering a greater range).