(Click to Enlarge)
The Bushin Training Circle
Basic Training (kihon)
Build skill. Kihon comprises the basic movements of self defence such as punches and kicks, releases and throws, footwork and bodywork. It is the foundation of Bushin training, using repetition to create strong building blocks for martial art skills. Padwork is done every session in Bushin to get used to contact and power. We find people like to hit things! It makes a great workout and relieves stress.
Techniques (waza)
Learn self defence. Waza are the self defence techniques of Bushin. Waza is a fundamental part of self defence training used to practise technical principles of distance, accuracy, speed and strategy on a would-be attacker. At a basic level, waza involves a series of defences and counters from a specific attack, such as a hook punch or arm grab. At an advanced level, it involves different situations and tactics, such as groundwork and weapons. Waza is sub-divided as follows:
- Stand-up Fighting (goho). Defence from punches, kicks and strikes, usually consisting of a block and counter-attack.
- Grappling & Groundwork (juho). Defence from grabs and holds, usually consisting of a release, throw or lock.
- Weapons (buki). Defence against weapon attacks such as knives, bottles, sticks and chains.
- Stickfighting (nyoi-bo). Short stick defence techniques, similar to the Filipino art of Kali.
Fighting (randori)
Learn to fight. Randori is sparring or fighting, literally translated as “seizing chaos”. In Bushin, randori is an essential element of training to practise the application of techniques under stress and pressure, similar to a real fighting situation. Whether it’s stand-up fighting or grappling, all techniques are “sparred-in” during a Bushin class….it’s the true test to see if the techniques actually work!
Forms (kata)
Training tool. Forms or kata are solo form sequences of movements. Kata is an important training tool which can be used to improve accuracy, form, speed and fitness. In Bushin, kata at a basic level has a specific theme, such as punch or kick combinations, while at an advanced level it combines sequences of techniques, performed as a demonstration.
Martial Performance (embu)
Perform well. Embu can be translated as “martial performance” and is a series of techniques performed with a partner in a demonstration format. Usually practised at an advanced level in Bushin, embu is used to improve form, accuracy and style.
Pressure Points (kyusho)
Poke for pain. Kyusho is pressure point manipulation used as an advanced and highly effective means of self defence. Learnt at a higher level in Bushin, kyusho involves attacking specific weak points to distract, weaken or incapacitate an attacker.
Meditation (zazen)
Relax. Zazen meditation is an extremely beneficial element of Bushin training which helps improve health, concentration and composure, while reducing stress. It also helps improve posture, regulate breathing and develop internal energy, all useful tools in training and everyday life.
Acupressure Massage (seiho)
Improve health. Seiho is a therapeutic acupressure massage system used to improve and maintain physical health. Seiho helps relax muscles, relieve tension and regulate circulation by applying pressure to specific points and energy meridians. At an advanced level, kappo is learnt which involves resuscitation, joint relocation and injury restoration.
Internal Energy Training (kiko)
More energy. Internal energy, or ki, is an extremely effective tool used in Bushin self defence techniques and for healing. Bushin has developed a unique method of training called “ki sparring”, incorporating hard ki to maximise power, soft ki to minimise effort and explosive ki to maximise effect. Ki can also be used for self-healing by re-balancing and improving energy circulation through a series of exercises.
Theory (riron)
Understand. Theory is an essential element of Bushin, to understand the principles of self defence and their techniques. Theory also aids your own personal development and training throughout your martial art career. To become technically proficient in self defence it is important to understand basic principles such as distance, striking, initiative and strategy.
