Kakie Demonstration

In this video, Morio Higaonna Sensei demonstrates various techniques and approaches in the pair-work practice of kakie.  Beginning briefly with vertical and then horizontal arm movements in a stationary position, kakie is next performed with a stepping motion, and finally, from 20 seconds in, various applications are demonstrated. It is in this order that kakie is best learned. Many of the applications shown in the video are variations on techniques found in the kata, especially Shisochin and Kururunfa.

Keeping the Center

It is important to maintaining good posture in the form of a straight axis from the top of the head through the spinal column to the coccyx. With this achieved, the arms can be "locked up" using the elbows and pectoral muscles.  Rotating the body around this axial center without leaning or bending at an angle is the key to keeping balance, and forms the basis for the various "pulling" and blocking techniques found in Gojuryu and other martial arts, such as Tai Chi, which is explained here.  The principles are the same, and can be practiced in kakie.

Chiishi Exercise 4

This chiishi exercise is a variation on the basic routine and incorporates the kentsui uchi that occurs in the kata Saifa.  As in both the kata and this exercise, the forearm and fist (tettsui) are brought round over the top of the head and down, as if on to the opponent's head or collar bone.

As with the other exercises, the chiishi is initially tilted backwards rather than directly sideways to avoid excessive leverage causing damage to the elbow joint.

Miyazato Eiichi Sensei

In the lineage of Okinawan karate, where much emphasis is placed on personal guidance and oral tradition, Miyazato Eiichi Sensei was the personal student of Chojun Miyagi Sensei, the founder of Gojuryu, and therefore represented a direct link with the master during his lifetime.

Shown here is footage of Miyazato Sensei at his renowned Jundokan dojo in Okinawa, along with some of the many students who trained there over the years.  Aragaki Ryosei Kancho, the head of Gojuryu Karatedo Yoyogi Ryushinkan Dojo, was taught by Miyazato Sensei and is situated directly in his lineage.

The Green Book

This highly informative book is published by the Japan Karatedo Federation Goju-kai, and entitled simply 剛柔流空手道 ("Gojuryu Karatedo"). Many of the introductory sections are accompanied by English translations, while 212 of the 295 pages detail with photos and feet diagrams each move, stance and application of the twelve kata of Gojuryu. Aragaki Kancho, head of the Gojuryu Karatedo Yoyogi Ryushinkan Dojo, was involved in the making of the book in an advisory capacity.

In one of the introductory sections, it is stated that the key kata of Sanchin and Tensho are designed to help us work on developing Ki (気), Soku (息) and Tai (体) - respectively, inner energy, breathing and body strength, fundamental features of Gojuryu karate. The book, though not widely available, can be obtained from some of Shureido's outlets.