Don't Skip Your ABCs: Why Kihon Matters in Kyokushin Kenbukai

Kihon

Alright, let's talk about something super important: Kihon!

You might be thinking, "Kihon? That's just doing the same punch or kick over and over. Boring!" But trust me, it's way more than that. Think of it like this:

Kihon are the letters, kata are the words, and kumite are sentences.

That's something Senpai Casey said last week, and it's spot on! Today, we're diving deep into those "letters" – the kihon.

Why Kihon?

Imagine trying to write a story without knowing your ABCs. You'd be stuck! It's the same with karate. Sosai Masutatsu Oyama, the founder of Kyokushin karate, knew that you can't build a strong fighting style without a solid foundation. That's why he emphasized kihon so much.

He created these basic techniques to:

• Build a strong base: Kihon helps you develop the correct stance, balance, and power.

• Improve your technique: It lets you focus on the details of each movement, making sure you're doing it right.

• Develop muscle memory: By repeating the techniques, your body learns to move automatically, without you even thinking about it.

• Increase your power: Practicing kihon with focus and intensity helps you generate more force.

• Develop spirit: Pushing yourself through repetitive movements builds mental toughness and perseverance.

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How to Practice Kihon (The Right Way!)

It's not just about throwing punches and kicks randomly. Here's how to make your kihon practice awesome:

1. Focus on the Details:

   • Don't just rush through the movements. Pay attention to every little thing: your stance, your fist position, the angle of your kick, your breathing.

   • Imagine you're taking a close-up photo of each part of the movement.

2. Power and Speed:

   • Kihon isn't just about doing the movements correctly; it's also about generating power.

   • Try to add snap and speed to your techniques. Imagine you are hitting a real opponent.

3. Kiai!

   • Don't forget the kiai! It's not just a shout; it's a way to focus your energy and spirit.

   • It helps you unleash your power and show your determination.

4. Repetition, Repetition, Repetition:

   • Yes, it can be repetitive. But that's the point! The more you practice, the better you'll become.

   • Think of it like leveling up in a video game, each repetition makes you stronger.

5. Visualize:

   • Imagine you're using your kihon in a real fight. Visualize your opponent, your movements, and your victory.

   • This will help you develop your fighting spirit and make your techniques more effective.

6. Seek Correction:

   • Having a Senpai or Sensei watch you and give corrections is extremely important. They will be able to see small mistakes that you may not notice.

     
     

Why It Matters

You might not see the results right away. But trust me, all those hours of kihon practice will pay off. Your kata will be smoother, your kumite will be sharper, and you'll be a stronger, more confident karateka.

So, next time you're doing kihon, remember: you're building the foundation for your karate journey. You're learning the "letters" that will allow you to write your own amazing karate story.

Osu!