On Wednesday night, 6 November 2019, the senior class enjoyed a training session with Sensei Bernard Buys. Sensei Bernard is no stranger to Solis Ortus.
He started the class by teaching us how to speed up our punches. A simple technique actually. So, instead of thinking about the hand having to do the punch, think of the hand which will become your next Hikite (put back hand).
After this great eye opener we moved on to hips. If you have ever had the pleasure of watching (martial) art in motion and seeing Sensei Bernard on the tatami, you will know that HIPS and the use thereof is Bernard Sensei’s forte.
The Japanese are very good with the use of their lower body. We are very good in using our upper body strength. We all need to figure the glue between the lower and upper body. HIPS HIPS HIPS!
We do Heian Shodan with zenkutsu dachis and xhosa dachis. The xhosa dachi forces you to squeeze your hip muscles and go down into deep solid stances. These moves ties in beautifully with Empi. The session moves onto Jion and one can see the karatekas getting faster the more they apply Sensei Bernard’s teaching and tips.
The class is finished off with a fun way in which to use your hips. Loosen the little side strings on your gi, now karate your heart out. If the strings did not move, you have not used your hips.
Looking forward to implementing this technique with our youngsters.
Work hard on staying fast on your hips, push and never give up!
Article written by Sandy Oosthuizen