Jujutsu kata

[Shidoshi]

With this class, we have reached the half-way point in our 30 move kata.  At this point, you should feel much more comfortable on the ground.  You should find that you are able to move much smoother from one position to another.  Your awareness of safe positions as opposed to those that put you in danger should be more evident.  Your techniques should be getting better, stronger, and tighter.  The importance of controlling the space should be realized.

This is also a good time to remind ourselves of some basics.  Both members are training when going through this kata.  You need to be training realistically.  Remember a basic training pattern should be followed.  First train for mechanics only, this means your partner is compliant and offering no resistance.  Next, you should train against passive resistance.  This means your partner is only trying to stop you from getting the techniques, but not actively trying to offer an offense.  Third, you should train against active resistance where your partner is not only defending themselves, but also trying to counter and be offensive.  The final stage is randori, where you are not following the kata at all but simply trying to submit, choke, or escape from one another.

Referencing this particular class, remember proper bone alignment and weight distribution.  Be very dynamic in these movements.  Do not expect any of these moves to simply fall into place, you will have to actively try to apply them.  This is also the second time you have seen juji gatame.  By putting this in the kata twice now, it must be important.  Consider this.  Generally, any time you can isolate an arm of your opponent you will be able to get a juji gatame.  Also, be careful with your training partner as the kneeling arm bar comes on very quickly and harshly.

Any questions or comments?