Our emphasis is on strict, practical, and physically rigorous training. We practice "practical" katas not just simply "routine" katas.
Our training thus regularly incorporates 1) line training, a drill where students rotate through the entire class throwing attacking techniques and defending themselves from these techniques; 2) three step kicking, where opponents trade kicks while being limited in the sorts of evasive maneuvers they may use; 3) corner training, where attacker and defender roles are pre-assigned, and live techniques are used; 4) circle training, and version of corner training that takes place out in the open rather than taking place in the corner, where the defenders movements are more limited; and finally, 5) free style sparring (jyu kumite), where there are few restrictions on technique or contact.
This sort of system is not appropriate for all students. In general, those who succeed in our dojo are dedicated, self-motivated, and capable of high levels of self-control and self-discipline. This ensures that those who do succeed necessarily possess the characteristics required for continued self-teaching.
In addition, we follow the standard of Sensei Kirk Dombrowski, Godan, at the Matsubayashi Shorin Ryu Karate at John Jay College, CUNY in New York City.
