Karate Camp Sept 2009

Saturday 26th September
4am start. Warmed up with Jumbiundo and Kata then set off for a run, I would like to focus on an exercise that Renshi Piero asked us to do. We were to line up then to do Ryuken, but before we started each Deshi was asked to go to the front and required to express one point that was personal to them that they would focus/improve on when they did this Kata, Listening to everyone, I felt that I was participating in their focus. After doing this Ryuken Kata at least 40 times, felt I had acknowledged and had been opened to new elements.

Back for breakfast of egg, bacon and toast with tea or cappuccino (maybe one year!)

After breakfast we trained in Kihon, Kata and were asked to take part in an speed exercise involving the Dan grades. They were to surround a tree and Kyu grades were asked to run and retrieve an Obi that was placed on the tree. We did this a few times and swapped over. We also practiced Kata with Dan grades that was needed for our next grading we then took a break for lunch.

We had great weather all day and were under the sun during the afternoon. We continued with pairwork, kata and some endurance exercises.

The evening was dedicated to meditation, with thoughts, experiences and moments of thoughtlessness and guidance . . . .

Ready for bed.

Sunday 27th September

4am start, warmed up with Jumbiundo and ran to the fields and practised Pair work and kumite in the dark on wet uneven ground which was not easy. Then we were asked by Renshi Piero and Renshi Tim to undertake a listening task which involved each person being given a number between 1 and 20. The aim was to listen for the number before or after yours being shouted out and for you to follow. It was important to listen to others calling their numbers and being aware of any pattern changes and ensuring to follow suit. This was more difficult than expected as some forgot their numbers, showing how vital it was to listen and always be aware.

We then continued pair work followed by THE RUN, with no warning! Expect the unexpected, the hill awaited us.... we were glad to return to then barn for breakfast.

When we arrived back at base we were delighted to be joined by Shihan Rhys Williams and Renshi Jenny Grovnsnor we then enjoyed some more meditation.

We then worked on a running exercise which involved team building and endurance, which means running up hills and carrying back our fellow deshi!

Following lunch we all continued with Kata. Dan grades trained on their own and later demonstrated synchronized Kata in pairs. Kyu grades practised in pairs and then finished with kumite which ended the camp's training.

As always I come away from camp exhilarated, exhausted, aware, tired, learned, peaceful and anxious, the extremes go on. . . .

Focusing on the Me, Myself and I exercises throughout the camp we were able to really focus on what we needed as individuals. What did I need to improve on? What was I thinking about? The meditation (no thinking here!) was about you. Going into yourself, delving deeper, how far can you push yourself, train for yourself , by yourself. Your own accomplishments. . . .

We cleaned and tidy up the venue and bowed off. Thanking all for their guidance. I am ready for the next camp..... see you there