(After somehow losing a much longer report during a post attempt, I've cut this one down to make sure it doesn't happen again. Here's hoping...)
New Jersey
Special thanks must go to Hirono Sensei of Daido Juku. Although his club is not open to the public, he made a real effort to allow us to attend these seminars, which he had arranged through the Daido Juku Hombu. He was friendly and forthright, and served as a translator on occasion. It should be noted however that Azuma Jukucho and Komatsu Sensei are both quite fluent in English. The clarity of the communication made a lot of difference, particularly when relating necessary details.
On Friday the 21st of November 2008 a few Karateka of different styles had the opportunity to train with the famous Azuma Jukucho of Daido Juku, and founder of the system known as Kudo. Rather than relate his numerous accomplishments, and his reasons for forming Kudo we got right down to business, and this set the tone for both Friday and Saturday.
With attendees traveling from as far away as San Francisco, this was appreciated, and the urge to sweat was clear on every face. The host Dojo was Elite Kick Revolution in Wall, NJ, and the hosting Sensei was Franklin Gomez Sensei. His Dojo is clean, well-lit, and full of training equipment. If you are in the area, I do hope you will stop by for training. (And expect to see his Introduction here on K4L in the near future!)
Azuma Jukucho had brought with him the confident and capable Komatsu Sensei and Kimura Sensei. Both are Kudo tournament champions, but neither had a rough attitude. Both were skillful, and very polite, a testament to their training and their positive character.
The warm ups were fairly familiar to those with a Kyokushin background. A few differences, but that was to be expected. When it came to the Basics, that's where things got interesting. With such a heavy focus on working from a fighting stance, it was great that body movement was expected during the performing of the basics. The Hook and the Uppercut mirrored a lot of what I have been doing on my own, so it was with real pleasure I got to practice another perspective, and add this instruction to my own training.
On a special note, our own Miguel Rios Sensei of Shurenkan Karate-do was in attendance, and made a particular impression on the local and visiting Japanese both with his skill in Nihongo and in Shodo (Japanese Calligraphy.). IMO, I think that a triple-spinning jump axe kick would have been less impressive to them than this most remarkable field of study. And as was remarked by more than one person, "Shodo is really difficult!" :)
Although we didn't seem to spend a whole lot of time on the Kihon, and moved on to the Ido portion soon, time was flying by. The footwork and the combinations needed to be performed in a very particular way, and this was the first real stumbling block for many of the participants. Again, the practical nature of the body moving, swaying, twisting and shifting made this seminar well worth attending. Very, very unfortunately, during this time, Azuma Jukucho hurt his leg quite badly. We heard something snap, and more than once his knee buckled after this injury. His tough side certainly shone through in the way he carried on, in spite of the injury. Although some of the technique were now impossible for him, he didn't take a seat, or slow the pace at all. His example was highly motivating.
The partner work included many throws, and after a very short time, it became obvious that not everyone was equally well versed in taking throws, or in breakfalls. So a quick review and practice of this often neglected skill-set put everyone in the right mindframe, and we went back to the meaty partnerwork drills.
All too soon the training was over, and we went off to eat at a restaurant suggested by our Dojo host. Franklin Sensei is obviously well known and respected in his town, as the restaurant owner was very glad to see us, and the service was way above ordinary.
Fortunately for us, Azuma Jukucho insisted that the Japanese attendees spread themselves out among us, so that we could all try and converse with one another. This was a delight. Hearing stories, sharing stories and lots and lots of good food. As the clock crept its way toward midnight, I knew I was going to have to start my two hour journey home, so taking my leave, I set off home, looking forward to training on Saturday!
(If anyone has a decent group picture from Friday night, please post it here.)
Osu!
smoothsake
11-29-2008, 02:00 AM
Thanks for the detailed write up and narration. Osu
vapor
11-29-2008, 02:22 AM
GREAT report! I missed out on the opportunity be being out of state that weekend!
vapor
satodojo
11-29-2008, 02:50 AM
Osu, Dent-Sensei,
Thank you very much for the report.
I really wish that I could be in the two location in same time.
Especially I missed a chance to impress you guys by showing off my Japanese and Calligraphy skills:D
Dent
11-29-2008, 03:26 AM
Osu!
New York City
Saturday was cold. And not the nice by-the-fire kind of cold either. The max for the day topped out at zero degrees C, but for us it was about -5 without the wind chill. And the wind blew...
I'd been out most of the morning coaching teams in the final games of the season, and all I could think of was how much more I'd like to be reviewing last night's training. Still, we won, and that was a great start to the day!
Rather than try to battle city traffic, I took the train in from Central Jersey. And being on the train, I had the obligatory crazy person about 4 seats away. While I have no idea of how to help the mentally disturbed, I do know that if they were housed in facilities that resembled NYC trains, they'd be quite at home... :rolleyes:
Anyway, made my way to a facility called Fighthouse, and was duly impressed with the number of arts being taught in one place. From Kung Fu to Muay Thai, Capoeira to Wing Chun, BJJ to Systema and on and on.
With several more participants than the night before, a fair bit of repetition was involved in the evenings training. I, for one, couldn't have been happier. Actually, I'd have been happiest with even more work on the basic training, because, as Azuma Jukucho said, "You may think you know the technique, but you don't KNOW it!"
Midway through the Kihon, the Capoeira group struck up their singing and instrument playing. Although I did enjoy the accompaniment, the volume was a shade overwhelming, particularly as we were only feet away from them. Instruction became impossible, and the frustration on our side became tangible. This did give us a good reason to Kiai though, so we plowed on as best we could. (While I appreciate that the low seminar cost was due, in part, to using this facility, and I wouldn't want to detract from someone else's training, I was glad to see the end of their session.)
Soon we were onto the partner work, and in addition to some of the combination from the evening before, we added additional headbutting and arm-damaging training. Excellent! I was fortunate to partner with Paul Sensei (from San Francisco) the first evening, and again fortunate to partner Raul Sensei (from Brooklyn) the second. No offense to those new to the martial arts, but it is a real pleasure being able to work with those who have an extensive background. It sure makes life a whole lot easier.
Raul Sensei and I were able to work around our respective injuries, and find a few things that worked for us as 100kg plus characters. I can't say that we'll be doing anything spectacular, but good, bone-crunching results are our first priority anyway!
Speaking with Azuma Jukucho afterwards, I learned that not only does he have a meniscus problem, but the snap we heard was from his patella tendon. He will be visiting a well-known specialist when he returns to Japan, and will probably need surgery. I'm sure that we all wish him a quick, and complete, recovery!
Unfortunately, we could not repeat the eating out of the evening before. The visiting instructors were headed off to another function, so no time for Q&A. This was a real pity, because I'd made quite a list, and now I'm going to struggle to get those questions answered. Hopefully they will all be back in the near future!
Observations after the two days:
Kudo is not for everyone. If you are not in passable shape, then training is going to be rough. This is not a fitness class, or training for those interested only in aesthetics. This training is designed for those who want to keep the ethos of the Martial Way, and extend their physical capabilities to their limit.
Additionally, I'm not sure whether it was the nature of the seminar, and that classes are different, but I think that having prior striking and grappling experience would be vital to success in Kudo. The level at which training was done suggests that continued training outside of the offered classes is necessary. Strikers should make additional time for grappling training, and grapplers should do likewise for striking.
While there are many groups interested in Kudo, either as an additional program, or as the whole of training, Azuma Jukucho is proceeding carefully, and not rushing into authorizing instructors. This is an excellent approach, and should see that the quality of the system is assured.
On the whole, it was a very worthwhile experience, and I'm hoping that they will all return next year to add to our understanding of the art of Kudo.
I'd also like to thank Meguro, who, in addition to the constantly positive attitude he radiates, led me to my first Korean BBQ! The meal was delicious, and like any two old war-horses, we discussed Karate until well after I had missed my train! :D
http://hosted.drpic.com/YAYSGGB8D2
Osu!
kakatootoshi
11-29-2008, 08:02 AM
Osu!
New York City
I'd been out most of the morning coaching teams in the final games of the season, and all I could think of was how much more I'd like to be reviewing last night's training. Still, we won, and that was a great start to the day!
Osu!
What teams do you coach?
Dent
11-29-2008, 07:23 PM
Osu!
What teams do you coach?
Youth soccer. Grades 2 and 5/6. Some great kids, and some that would boggle the mind... :D
Osu!
kakatootoshi
11-29-2008, 08:06 PM
Do you teach/have you played professionally?
I am sure you must have instilled some positive attitudes in those kids.
Dent
11-29-2008, 08:15 PM
Osu!
Do you teach/have you played professionally?
I am sure you must have instilled some positive attitudes in those kids.
I played in school, and at local club level. Although rugby was always my favorite, by the time I reached high school, I was too small to be much of a threat on the field. I still played, but never did make the First Team. And although soccer never cracked my top five for sports, I seemed to have some natural ability. Now how that came about, I'll never understand... :rolleyes:
You are very kind (As always), KakatoOtoshi! What bothers me most is not the children, but their parents. They hand over the kids after leaving them on the couch for an entire summer, and then expect professional level play out of them. The first two months had to be devoted almost entirely to fitness, because they couldn't play a whole match. (The first session, some couldn't make it around the pitch without stopping! Disgraceful!)
I hope that these young boys and girls will see that being in shape is its own reward, and that it makes their everyday life so much better.
Osu!
meguro
12-01-2008, 03:39 PM
we discussed Karate until well after I had missed my train! :D
Doh!
Sorry you missed your train Dent. Next time, more eating and drinking and less talking karate.:D
Hirono-san tells me that another seminar is planned for April/May '09. Hopefully, with advanced knowledge we can get the word out and boost attendance. A NY-area dojo is contemplated, but not as soon as many would like.
Dent
12-01-2008, 06:46 PM
Osu!
No problem! There was one 45 minutes later, and I got to experience more of the (Ahem) culture of the train station. :D
I'm hoping that the update will take place soon. With so many events taking place in '09, I'm going to need a separate calender to plan them all!
Osu!
shurenkan
12-01-2008, 07:44 PM
Dent san,
You are WAY TOO KIND!!!
I had a great time at the seminar. Azuma Jukucho, Komatsu Sensei, and Kimura Sensei were kind and unassuming. Komatsu in particular had me in stitches. He is one funny guy!
I will surely attend the next time they come to town.
As for my nihongo and Shuji, let's just say Dent-san is WAY TOO KIND!!!
Miguel Rios
Karatedo Shurenkan
Dent
12-01-2008, 08:11 PM
Osu!
As for my nihongo and Shuji, let's just say Dent-san is WAY TOO KIND!!!
Miguel Rios
Karatedo Shurenkan
Not at all, Miguel-Sensei. I calls 'em as I sees 'em! :) I think your Shodo is particularly impressive too. I hope you seriously consider an autobiography at some point, because I think it would be a very worthwhile read.
Osu!
shurenkan
12-01-2008, 09:23 PM
I could entitle it: Anatomy of Confusion: a day in my life
Osu,
Miguel Rios
Karatedo Shurenkan
vapor
12-01-2008, 09:31 PM
I certainly hope that K4L gets a shout out on inside flap somewhere!!
vapor
kakatootoshi
12-02-2008, 04:14 PM
A quick update on Azuma Jukucho's knee injury:
After a throughout checkup with 3D CT and MRI, it is decided that no surgery is necessary this time.
Dent
12-02-2008, 10:11 PM
Osu!
Very surprising to learn that, KakatoOtoshi! It made one heck of a noise, and he was crippled for both Friday and Saturday. I hope he's not just toughing it out.
Osu!
kakatootoshi
12-03-2008, 04:02 PM
Osu!
Very surprising to learn that, KakatoOtoshi! It made one heck of a noise, and he was crippled for both Friday and Saturday. I hope he's not just toughing it out.
Osu!
Well this is their official annoucement and we can only take it like that.
Pictures of the US Seminar
?????????? (http://www.daidojuku.com/home/2008/usa/img.html#ny2)
More on Jukucho's injury (in Japanese)
????????????? (http://www.daidojuku.com/home/news/news_top.html#08094)
Dent
12-03-2008, 04:07 PM
Osu!
No fair, KakatoOtoshi! I'm still struggling with just hearing the language, and you want me to read it too?! ;) :D
Yes, we'll take it that Azuma Jukucho knows what is best for his health, but I hope I didn't say anything wrong when we spoke about knee injuries together. :eek:
Osu!
kakatootoshi
12-03-2008, 04:35 PM
Osu!
No fair, KakatoOtoshi! I'm still struggling with just hearing the language, and you want me to read it too?! ;) :D
Yes, we'll take it that Azuma Jukucho knows what is best for his health, but I hope I didn't say anything wrong when we spoke about knee injuries together. :eek:
Osu!
So what did you say?
vapor
12-03-2008, 05:08 PM
Dent in his white belt...gotta love it! Must have dusted that one off!!!
vapor
Dent
12-04-2008, 04:48 AM
Osu!
So what did you say?
We spoke for a while, and I told him that knee surgery is a 50/50 operation. I've had three, and two worked out well, the third...? Well, not so much. To rebuild it, they harvested the hamstring, so now that is weak, as well as the knee. Two days ago, I could barely make it up the stairs, and had to use my hands to help.
Choosing a surgeon may be the most important step, and a "name" surgeon isn't necessarily your best bet. Finding someone with a strong background in working with professional athletes is a must, and there needs to be absolute clarity between doctor and patient. Otherwise, it's best to find someone else.
Dent in his white belt...gotta love it! Must have dusted that one off!!!
vapor
It's my favorite belt color! None of the responsibility, and all the opportunity to learn! :D
Osu!
meguro
12-04-2008, 02:43 PM
Osu!
x2 on the white belt, especially when it comes to training in something like Kudo which requires proficiency in many disparate skill areas:throwing; falling; grappling; boxing; knock-down. After practicing koshi garuma a few times with our compliant partners, Azuma Jukacho cautioned us to avoid the error of equating "thinking you can do" with "doing." I believe it. I've got too many questions and not enough answers/experience. A white belt for Kudo is just right.
Dent
12-04-2008, 09:38 PM
Osu!
Are any of our fluent members up for translating the travel journal of Azuma Jukucho for the NJ/NY section of his trip?
I think it would be very interesting to read his thoughts.
Osu!
vapor
12-04-2008, 09:39 PM
Are you directing that at me??? I still owe the forum the translation of one of Sosai's videos (I haven't forgotten!)
vapor
Dent
12-04-2008, 09:51 PM
Osu!
Are you directing that at me??? I still owe the forum the translation of one of Sosai's videos (I haven't forgotten!)
vapor
Not specifically. :) There are quite a few on this board who might be so kind as to do this for all the rest of us. I can even think of one who was in attendance... ;)
Osu!
meguro
12-07-2008, 05:22 AM
Aargh. Couldn't be me. I have the Japanese reading ability of a challenged 2nd grader.:D
orisha66
12-08-2008, 10:10 PM
Does anyone know if there is going to be another Kudo seminar in the near future?
Dent
12-08-2008, 10:14 PM
Osu!
Aargh. Couldn't be me. I have the Japanese reading ability of a challenged 2nd grader.:D
Make it part of the Kitchen Timer Challenge! Additional Vitamin B for each minute over fifteen in the translation! :D
Does anyone know if there is going to be another Kudo seminar in the near future?
I am keeping an ear out! Hopefully we will hear something about '09 soon.
Osu!
orisha66
12-08-2008, 10:39 PM
Did any of the schools talk about or say that they were opening a Daido/Kudo branch on the East Coast?
Dent
12-09-2008, 11:07 AM
Osu!
Did any of the schools talk about or say that they were opening a Daido/Kudo branch on the East Coast?
There is significant interest, but learning Kudo isn't a weekend activity. I think that the idea is to send an instructor from Japan, who will initially be hosted by two, or more, Dojo. (And not everyone is comfortable with this idea. There is the issue of revenue and position to consider. I hope it happens, but it doesn't fit the American model...)
Osu!
meguro
12-09-2008, 02:27 PM
Osu! Seems to me setting up a dojo at Fight Club in NYC might be the way to go until the student base is large enough to support a stand-alone dojo.
Dent
12-09-2008, 04:45 PM
Osu!
Osu! Seems to me setting up a dojo at Fight Club in NYC might be the way to go until the student base is large enough to support a stand-alone dojo.
Do you mean the Daido Juku organization, or a solo individual, Meguro?
Do you know what the cost factors might be?
Osu!
meguro
12-09-2008, 06:20 PM
Osu!
Do you mean the Daido Juku organization, or a solo individual, Meguro?
Do you know what the cost factors might be?
Osu!
I think think the Daido Juku organization should think of planting a flag in the US and expect to take a loss for a couple of years. They can rent a time slot at Fight House (don't know the details, but can check) and put an instructor or two from Japan on salary, with a bonus based on performance (promoting Kudo and coralling students). Sharing time at a dedicated karate dojo or judojo won't work as there'd be a fear of cannibalizing the students. Fight House offers a differse mix of MA's so this issue has already been dealt with.
Dent
12-09-2008, 08:47 PM
Osu!
I hear you Meguro, but I don't think that's the model they're going to follow...
I've emailed Hirono-Sensei, asking for further information. Results of that email will be posted here.
Osu!
meguro
12-09-2008, 11:15 PM
Osu! Dent, I was thinking of a low cost/low risk appoach. Of course, the organization can splurge on a stand alone-dojo with full-time staff, full-time schedule. From a customer stand-point, who wouldn't want that! I think it would take longer to move on something so ambitious though.
I made some inquiries about implementing my low cost low risk plan. It sounds too simple I'm probably missing something.
Dent
12-10-2008, 01:39 AM
Osu!
I made some inquiries about implementing my low cost low risk plan. It sounds too simple I'm probably missing something.
As one of them thar durned furriners, I do wonder what INS/ BCIS would make of the idea? I suspect they wouldn't welcome it with an open-ended P-1 visa...
Osu!
meguro
12-10-2008, 05:50 PM
Osu! Alas, I can only make a few phone calls and inquire about rent. Can't help with the visa situation.:o
Dent
12-12-2008, 03:57 AM
Osu!
I can tell you all that Meguro's efforts are paying off. Most recent update from Hirono Sensei is that Komatsu Sensei may be arriving in NYC as soon as 2009. No definite date, but this is a huge step forward!
Osu!
meguro
12-12-2008, 07:06 PM
Osu, osu, osu. You give me too much credit, Dent. A lot of the groundwork was laid by the many Kudo fans who contacted Azuma Jukacho and pleaded for a dojo in the US, and of course the folks who arranged the NY/NJ seminars. Thank you.
Let's keep our fingers crossed.
vapor
12-12-2008, 07:35 PM
Positive news, for sure!
vapor
kakatootoshi
12-17-2008, 07:57 PM
New pictures from the US seminars
?????????? (http://www.daidojuku.com/home/2008/usa/img2.html)