Static Conditioning | Kote kitae Matsubayashi Ryu karate NZ

kote kitae
(Two person conditioning drills)

Conditioning is synonymous with Okinawan Karate and Taira dojo is no exception.

The main forms of conditioning / supplementary exercises include, makiwara, hojo undo and kote kitae. These exercises have both mental and physical developmental aspects. It is not intended to examine in depth all the various forms of exercises here, but to demonstrate the kote kitae exercises we practice in our dojo.

Training

Conditioning training
part 1 Static conditioning

Physiological changes do occur with repeated conditioning which translate to increased structural strength, physical and mental endurance.

Persons watching this training and who may wish to try the following exercises need to understand fundamental training concepts such as:
Qi *, its origin and relationship to centering (hara)*. The principles of movement; balance, breathing, speed and distance. The correct technique (kihon) and the desired points of contact. The practice of conditioning is no different to that of kata. Practice without an understanding of the above concepts and the translation of these to the practical form could render kote kitae a meaningless exercise.

A good warm-up incorporating the techniques to be used in the conditioning should be practiced and emphasised prior to engaging in conditioning training. The warm up should also specifically include low impact joint and tendon stretching and strengthening.

Remember the words of O'Sensei Shoshin Nagamine: Precepts and maxims of karate.

"I cannot develop my own potentialities when in the trap of self limitation."
"Cultivate the power of perseverance by strengthening your body and overcoming the difficulties that arise during training."
"The dojo is the place where courage is fostered and superior human nature is bred through the ecstasy of sweating and hard work. It is the sacred place where the human spirit is polished."

This video provides a selection of kote kitae conditioning exercises which we practice.

Only in a formal training setting are the views expressed able to be accurately conveyed to ensure that the best results are gained from this form of training.

Enjoy

hara Belly or abdomen. In Chinese and Japanese tradition it is considered the physical center of gravity of the human body and is the seat of one's internal energy (qi).

*footnotes:
qi Energy, life force. A term used in traditional Chinese medicine as one of the fundamental substances required to sustain vital function to the body.