I’ve just started karate only a few weeks ago and have only attended a couple classes. I get nervous to attend future classes because honestly I have not been practicing my kata and feel quite guilty about it. Sensei encouraged me that there are videos on his website. Unfortunately they are probably from the eighties and their walk through pace is a bit faster than I can keep up with. Not to mention there is no talking in the video and I thrive in learning when there are verbal cues. This helps SOOOO much! Thank you so much for this, you are such a great teacher. I appreciate the “chicken elbow” and “boring book” analogy, it helps me visualize it so much better. This will help me feel more confident to simply know what the steps look like to start practicing them. Thank you.
This comment has absolutely made my week! I am so glad that my video is helpful, and it is important to try teach in as many ways possible. I am also much better with wordy teaching (I have the most shocking spatial ability, so I cannot flip things around in my mind!) and if I can help someone learn better, then I am happy too. I am sure your sensei is very proud of you! No one has to know the kata in just a few weeks - we only grade the kata as a whole after 10 months of training! Kata are hard to learn, especially the older we get. So please don't be hard on yourself - I know you are doing your best :) May your karate journey be long and rewarding! Best wishes, Zoë
I am on the guilty box too and this is helpful, I trained from 2008 to 2012 and did not train again since until I have found this channel and specifically this video, I ever since longed for an elaborative teacher as I was in the beginning received to the art by one, and I think you make quite a good teacher even though I am still struggling to get through Geki sai dai ichi, but this struggle is generally my life struggle manifesting in this also but I know the art is impactful in a social life of an individual due to the qualities that it may instill, such and in utmost how in its maturity instils a level of discipline, which in turn it affects the entire individual affecting the decision making directly, Because of this I am learning now so I can share with the children in my little village Tanzania, in my home Kilimanjaro. I will say in my language “Asante Sana” Karibu nyumbani kwetu.❤❤❤
55years old and here I am in my living room practising kata , fantastic channel, wonderful instructors(and beautiful also, I'm auld I can say such things) what a treasure trove this channel is, thank you
Thank you so much! I know there are tons of Geki 1 videos out there, so I am honoured mine has been helpful to you 🙇🏻♀️ Thank you for watching and commenting!
Ah, you are so kind! I actually kind of hated the video but I tried my best and had to kick it out the door eventually 😅 I couldn't bear to break our 60-odd week streak of uploads. It's so reassuring to recieve this comment, because all I saw were stupid kata mistakes that were unbecoming of a 3rd dan. But maybe this is why we're also not allowed to grade ourselves either 🤔 Truly, thank you 🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️
@@GojuRyuKarateCentre you are very welcome. I have been working on these 2 kata almost exclusively. I really love goju ryu but as I think I've mentioned I don't have a dojo of my own near me. Your channel has been such a bright light during covid. It has given me something to concentrate on during quarantine. I did find a Goju dojo about an hour away from me. I also found a shotokan school right in my town but I'd really prefer Goju Ryu. Thanks for all you do Zoe.
I know I would really, really struggle to change styles if I moved. The fact that our channel can be of any use, not just to the students who see us twice week but to practitioners around the world remains an endless source of joy and pride to both Ché and I. Your support and sincere words are priceless 🌺🌺
Thank you for this video. I love your teaching styles. I’m 38 years old and just started training in Goju Ryu. This has helped me immensely. Arigato gozaimasu
Ah, thank you so much, Smarfie! Never too late to start, and your diligent additional study will take you far along this karate journey. Thank you so much for commenting and watching, we truly appreciate it :)
Hello Sensei, I noticed the bunkai videos and links to other videos are missing from the description. I'm interested in the bunkai videos. Can't wait to watch soon.
“Slow is smooth, smooth is fast.” It is one of my mantras to myself and my son. It is also something that we used to say in the Army. Excellent video as always.
@@GojuRyuKarateCentre Hello again, I PASSED, and I feel very proud to be wearing my lovely bright yellow belt. Your help and assistance was very much appreciated. A big thank you again. Astar Now - I need to start learning the next Kata.
Zoe Sensei you should know that you are a natural at video teaching. The reason I started following this channel because I saw one of your basic videos and thought how straight forward your teaching was and how natural your were. Please keep making basics videos. I do have one question. The Gendan Bari move. What is being blocked? I have found many answers to this and would love to know what the meaning is in your school. Great editing and thanks again!.
Ah, thank you so for your truly kind and reaffirming feedback! As much as I hate being on camera, I love teaching more 😅 The first gedan berai is often blocking an incoming face punch with the top half of the block (after stepping to the side), and then the second half is basically a groin attack. The second gedan berai is often blocking a stomach punch and then following with a gyaku tsuki. At the least, these are the basics I would teach to beginners 🙇🏻♀️ I am hoping to make a return to the channel with one of my fellow lady black belts soon to keep working on teaching basics. Thank you for the sincere and kind comment, truly 🙇🏻♀️
A wonderful video by Sensei Zoe indeed. I liked the emphasis on details, such as, the first move of the kata being a step forward before turning (whereas many would simply make a left turn). The difference is, when you take that step forward, you are avoiding an attack from the left by moving out of the way, and then, that next turn left requires a twisting of the hips and legs，and weight shifting, to generate a rotational power, which of course augments the power of the upper block. The twisting and blocking is a body mechanic that only higher-graders can execute but if they don't have the mind-set of stepping forward before turning as a beginner they may never discover the body-mechanic I described when they become more advanced. You were spot on with all the details in the kata that one should observe. The laser beams were incredible btw. I also like the closing hand sequences ,in which you broke it down to 3 sections, right fist in left open palm - right fist under left palm - both palms open. Nowadays so many people just skip the part with the fist under palm. According to my late Sensei, Chojun Miyagi deliberately designed this bit into the kata, Fist on top of the open palm signified the ending of the fight, fist beneath the open palm meant zanshin - the fight is over, you are pacified on the surface, but you remain alert beneath the surface and are ready to attack if the opponent rises again (fist hidden behind an open palm) and finally, both palms are open meaning you are in a fully defensive posture/state of mind. I have almost believed that nobody else teaches this anymore, so it's great to see it here. About the history of the Fukyu katas, yes the governor of Okinawa comissioned the fukyu-kata series - the idea was to create universal kata that combined concepts from all schools. Soshin Nagamine created Fukyukata dai ichi, and Miyagi Sensei created Fukyukata dai-ni which also he named Gekisai-Dai-Ichi within the Goju-Ryu system. Hence, the unique features of this kata include : Closed-fisted Age-Uke which does not appear in any other Goju-Ryu kata, Oi-Tsuki, again this does not exist in any other Goju-Ryu kata (both moves are however, common in the Shuri-Te system). It is also the only Goju-Ryu kata whereby after a kick and elbow strike, the fist executes a backfist strike. In Sanseru, Shisochin, Kururunfa, the backfist strike is "hidden" - so it seems Chojun Miyagi wanted to make it known to beginners, that this bunkai exists after the elbow strike. This kata also gives the beginner a complete run through of blocks - upper middle and lower blocks for both arms, as well as upper punch and middle punch, a knife-hand strike each hand plus 2 double punches. As you rightly pointed out, this is the only kata that ends with stepping forward- Miyagi Chojun designed it this way to signify the idea that karate should be progressing with the times. You start the kata by moving out of the way of aggression, but end it by moving forward, you end by offering peace but maintaining Zanshin.This sums up Chojun Miyagi's philosophy to karate and his outlook to life. A lot of thought was put into this kata's design - and it is one of my favourite kata of the Goju-System. One can tell so much about a Goju-Ryu karateka just from watching him/her perform this kata - and Sensei Zoe does this kata really well, and probably teaches students very well too. Keep up the great work Sensei Che and Zoe.
Ah, so now I finally have an answer as to *why* we do the fist-opening thing just before ending the kata. It's one of those things that we've always just done, but never thought about. This deeper philosophical insight into Geki Sai kata is priceless, and we are so grateful for it. When I did my research for this, the aggression of Geki 1 was always mentioned, never the offering of peace at the end. I really like this interpretation, and it tracks with a) Pinan, the kata of peace, and b) Miyagi Sensei learning from his time in the military as a young man, and seeing so much suffering at the height of Japan's imperial expansion. Considering how much he would lose by the end of the war, it is a sad irony. As for all the bunkai seeds that are planted in these two kata, it is so lovely to see them grow across all the kata, and show up at the very end in Suparinpei! (My knowledge of this last kata is very very shaky, but I have followed other people doing it, and it is a delight to see all the callbacks to earlier kata). You are right that things that are 'obvious' in this kata are still important enough to keep showing up later. Your words are so kind! I teach this kata ALL the time, because I take the bulk of the junior and newbie classes, especially when it is chimney season and Ché is only available later in the evening to take the seniors and adults. (Also, I am very much the opening act to his luminous genius.) And since my first talent is writing and storytelling, using metaphors and weird imagery really helps kids remember. When I approached the heads of our federation 6 years ago to become an instructor, they approved my deshi journey not as a talented practitioner (I am definitely not), but more as a conductor of light. To quote Arthur Conan Doyle in the first Sherlock Holmes book: "It may be that you are not yourself luminous, but you are a conductor of light. Some people without possessing genius have a remarkable power of stimulating it." It is my profound privilege to be a conductor of light for others. Thank you for bringing your genius to our channel, and sharing such incredible insights. Each video has brought us more knowledge than we put out there - it is a net gain of wisdom! PS: Apologies for my delayed response - I prefer to reply via PC, so that I can read your comment properly and type the response you deserve. It just isn't the same on the app version of UA-cam studio.
I loved this tutorial. It's great coming back into a class (even if it's online) as my home dojo is in Kansas City, MO and I am living in Istanbul for a time. I am a 3rd dan black belt and still growing! I like your style and will stay tuned into this channel.
Just started karate way (am not a young lass) and two years in - decided to get graded last year to blue belt. I am learning in my living room this kata as I have been struggling with the final bits - helps me so much with facing off camera and in front so it is easy to learn the moves. Please keep the channel going.
Thank you so, so much for this lovely and thoughtful comment! I am so happy that my little video was helpful, and I hope to keep producing content that helps beginners navigate the steep learning curve of karate. I remember when it was me, and how lost (and often demotivated!) I felt. I remember looking at this kata as a white belt and thinking "I'll never learn this!" - luckily I had a sempai who stepped in and helped me, and if he hadn't been so patient, I might never have gotten good enough in the long run to produce this. So if I can be your digital sempai, then I am most happy :) Best wishes, Zoë
@Shampancha, great to read another lady has taken up karate ! Congratulations on your blue belt grading, what style of karate do you study please ? How often do you train ? Are you going to be a black belt one day ? We have more women training at my dojo then men many are Dan grades !...
@ Goju Ryu and I am now a yellow belt. Just finished grading last week. Am trying to learn Gekesai bungkai- it’s a bit hard but I think the challenge is good for the brain. We train 90 minutes once to twice a week. Can be hard on our bones peri/post menopause
These two Kata's are new to me and I am learning the basic pattern through online tutorials. I have found yours to be clear and informative. I have enjoyed viewing your video. I am on the look out for others. Thank you.
I love how you teach your viewers and the humble attitude you display. This is very helpful for me as I started studying years ago in Hawaii an Okinawa style called Ryu Kyu which seems more similar to Goju Ryu than to Shotokan. Thank you for the work you do. Are we able to donate to your dojo?
Ah, thank you so much for your kind and warm words! Yes, Ryu Kyu is definitely closer to Goju than Shotokan, though as far as I know it isn't as widespread. You are so kind to support what we do! We are planning to launch our memberships soon, with a few tier options. We will have a $1 tier, and at most maybe a $10 tier, which will also include Zoom classes/livestreams for our international students. For now, we are most grateful for your subscription and comments, as they help us grow 🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️
Thanks for putting this video together, Sensei! You're absolutely right about doing these katas thousands of times. Anytime a new student comes into the dojo, it means everyone gets to do these two katas again from the beginning (and there's nothing wrong with that, of course). Mastering the basics means doing it over and over until it's... well, I guess I have to keep doing it because it's still not perfect. 😉
Perfection is boring anyway! It's the striving that makes us interesting. I remember when I first started learning this kata, and how impossible it seemed. I would have quit if it weren't for my Sempai, who took the time to teach me the kata on the weekends. If I can help someone get over the steep learning curve of their first kata, then I'm happy 🌺
Na minha opinião esse foi o melhor tutorial de Gekisai Dai It que assisti até agora, e olha que assisti vários. Parabéns pela maneira didática de explicar cada movimento. Virei seguidor do canal. Thank you. Osssss!
Thank you so much for these very, very kind words! I am so happy my little video was helpful in learning this essential Kata! I have been putting off going through the comments, because as we grow, unfortunately we also attract clowns who don't appreciate what we do. But then I read comments like this, and I am restored in my faith in what we do 🙏🏻 Thank you so much for the lovely comment, and for taking the time to watch all the way through! 🤗
Love your teaching I am currently studying Goju here in New York holding a purple belt and two belts away from black This teaching definitely helped me study the steps and forms of this kata thank you so much 🙏
Ah, that's a compliment of the highest honour - thank you so much! Thank you for the lovely comment, and apologies for the late reply - I'm working though the comment backlog >.< Best, Zoe
I practice Kyokushin with the local dojo, here, in the Gaspé, Québec, Canada. I just fell on your video tonight. It's very interesting to learn about katas from other styles. Thanks!
You are the best teacher on UA-cam. You are so cute with being nervous in front of my camera. Your sanchin dachi is interesting. Our school has the foot way more turned then yours. Overall amazing points to help students!! Keep it up
This was a brilliant video. You explain very well and the movements are presented in a very easy way. I look forward to watching many more videos on this channel. Dankie en mooi bly.
Ah thank you so much, Hamid! We don't get a lot of comments from our fellow South Africans on the channel, so it is so nice to hear from you. We hope to keep providing quality content for years to come :)
Good,clear, concise explanation of movements in both katas. An invaluable reference for those starting to learn the basic moves of the kata. Well done on an excellent presentation, Zoe.
Ah, thank you so much, John! This was exactly my goal - to make something to help beginners when they're not in the dojo and are training on their own. It's never my intention to replace the dojo or instructor, but to only pass on the information I've been so fortunate to recieve 🙇🏻♀️
Thank you Sensei! This is very helpful for my upcoming grading. I'm currently working in my kata and perfecting all my moves. I'll be sure to send you my video soon!!😸
Nicely done! Very nice walkthrough of this first Kata. For those just learning this Sense (teacher) is showing the traditional Goju Ryu kata, only difference from ours is Sanshin stance. Expect small differences though.
@@GojuRyuKarateCentre Okinawa Goju Ryu Goyu-Kan. My teacher Anthony Willis learned in Okinawa while stationed there in the Air force from Anyu Shinjo for a total of 5 years, Anyu Shinjo Sense was trained by Eiichi Miyazato to give you a better idea of the lineage. I personally have been practicing for 6 years now. I can tell you have been teaching for a some time now, you are very good at breaking it all down!
Excellent video. Thank you! Have to say that my best part is you putting your hands on your hips whilst thinking about Mitsuyo Maeda's quote. Incredible how powerful the unconscious is!
I was actually so delighted when I went back to get the pin off my pinterest board and it turned out that way! I use that quote all the time with the kids, so apparently my unconscious really did hang on to it! Thank you so much for your kind words, I truly appreciate it.
@@GojuRyuKarateCentreI practiced the kata all of Saturday and was asked to perform it last night in class. The sensei was well impressed with good hand movements. All thanks to this video!
Thank you for that bare basics video! Review is always Omni-important. The history of a kata’s origin is always fascinating to learn about/discover- and/or, in this case, review. So thank you. Also, as with the wrap up, I’ve always LOVED the “behind the scenes/bloopers” at the end of any movie/video! It really puts into perspective just how much goes into the process of editing and the over all process of artistry, if not just your obvious love for, and dedication to, your life’s passion! You’re doing great, Sensei;). Keep it up!
Ah, Mark! Thank you so much for these kind words - truly they mean a great deal to this neurotic instructor 😂 I will definitely add bloopers to my videos in the future - there really aren't many with Ché! Usually his videos are one smooth take, so its much faster to edit his videos. (And that's with him teaching off the cuff: we haven't gotten to the point of being organised enough to have scripted videos.) This lovely comment got my Monday off to a great start - thank you!
Hi Zoe Sensei, first great and excellent instructions. I originally started karate in SA many years ago with Shotokan style in Germiston and Johannesburg, now in Canada (34 years) been experiencing different styles over the years, including Goju. Watching your video, I am seeing a lot detail that sometimes gets ‘lost in translation’ watching various videos. Thanx for this video 🙏🙏
Ah, thank you so much for the truly generous comment, Selwyn! Always a delight to hear from our fellow South Africans, no matter where they are in the world! (Canada is our 5th biggest country by views, by the way.) I'm so glad that the detail gets across, for Miyagi is in the details! I'm always amazed by people who can train in other styles - I can't imagine starting over, and over, again. But the width and depth of your knowledge must be amazing. Thank you so much for stopping by our little channel :) Best, Zoe
Hi Zoe Sensei, about starting over etc., I look at this more as enriching my mind and keeping it active. With an open mind, one can appreciate so much more. I am affiliated to and a member of Northern Karate Schools. Yes there is a very large Goju following. I am friends with and train with a few Sensei in Goju Ryu. Sensei Steve Arms, Sensei Kristie Bilodeau and Sensei Mike & Laura Sywyk, all amazing Sensei and friends. Who knows, perhaps on my next trip to Johannesburg, we could connect.
Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! You guys are sooo awesome, thank you again. I've found this sooo helpful getting back into Goju Ryu after a long time off. Much appreciated.
Thank you master, I plaied karate 3 years and stopped. Since 45 days I restarted to practice this beautiful discipline, on my own, watching UA-cam. I would take lesson in a dojo near my city, in September and going to the Olimpics, this Is my Dream! ❤️
In Matsubayashi Shorin Ryu, Gekisai kata are known as Fukyuata. Both O Sensei Chojun Miyagi and O Sensei Shosin Nagamine collaborated and developed these forms for beginners and to get the general public's interest in karate. Great video.
Such important katas in our history, and it is important to remember that they are beginner's kata, and no less important for it. People say "I'm done with Geki Sai Dai Ichi", but if you do karate for life, you'll do it thousands of times :)
Great video! You're an endearing instructor and easy to follow in my opinion. I've got a Shotokan black belt so my perspective is weird and skewed. Not your typical student😅
Ah, thank you so much for the kind words! And we never really leave Geki Sai Dai Ichi or Ni behind - I still get asked to do them at gradings, and I'm heading for yondan in 2025 (maybe). Thank you for taking the time to watch and comment :D
¡Hola! ¡Estoy tan contenta de que esto haya sido útil en tus preparativos! Su estudio diligente y su ética de trabajo lo llevarán hasta el cinturón negro, estoy seguro. Muchas gracias por mirar y comentar, siempre lo apreciamos :)
Thank you Sensei for detailed video and explanation. Would you please clarify a few questions regarding the kata? 1. On 4.42, at kiai point (and the same on second kiai) you are punching in the plane of your shoulder/hip/leg. Question is that is it mandatory to do it that way in kata pattern or in some versions/schools you can direct your punch to the middle line of opponent's body, so the punch would go to navel/groin direction instead? 2. On 5.20 at Jodan yoko shuto uchi - you are not crossing the arms first using your left arm to grab the opponent's wrist. Question - is it common for all Goju Ryu branches or there are some differences acceptable? The reason why I'm asking is because on one of the videos I think Higaonna Sensei he was showing and explaining this part as grabbing the wrist and using to shuto to strike the neck, but I may be incorrect. Thank you again for the time and efforts and all explanation of the details!
Both excellent questions! I will try my best to answer 🤗 1) Our kiai punch is directed to the Goju line, which is an imaginary line going down the shoulder, down the chest and over the short ribs, so we are aiming to hit the short ribs, break them, and maybe burst the pancreas. However, your school might suggest a middle line punch - absolutely fine too! 2) So, when I was with another federation, we used to cross the arms just before the strike. It is in our bunkai, but not visible in our kata. OGKK doesn't like bunkai being obvious when performing the kata - it must be "hidden", as it were. As always, do what your Sensei says! I am so happy to read your comments and thoughts 🙇🏻♀️
Hello and thank you for your video. I just found your channel and subscribed. I practice Shotokan karate in a club but I am also interested in the Goju Ryu style. Unfortunately, there are no courses in my region in France and your courses will help me to practice at home in parallel with my practice of Shotokan. Thank you.
Thank you for the subscription! We hope you will continue to find our channel useful. Perhaps one day you will be able to train with a Goju Ryu instructor in your area! Thank you so much for taking the time to watch and comment! Please forgive our very late reply to your thoughtful comment.
The kata that I didn't like initially. Because it's too Shuriteish and Shorinryuish, not like a proper Goju-ryu or any ryuha from Nahate. :) Notice, this one is the only kata that got frontal jodan-uke which is not used in Nahate styles at all, because... who needs three levels and four blocks to protect (hello Shotokan friends!) when two levels to defend are more than enough: upper above your solar plexus including head hence fist/palm up (that's why a fist in our chudan-uke draws on eyes' level) and lower part below your solar plexus hence fist/palm down; and elbow is at the solar plexus anyway. :))) On the other hand (gyaku or oi, doesn't mater for awase), this kata is good to learn just an introduction to Goju-ryu style without even bothering with sanchin-gata (three years of training, they say, with constipated belly, they say...I mean, breathing with tanden and achieving gamaku, osu!) and then to go to a mandatory military service in Japanese imperial army and not to get your ass kicked because you're not a "proper" Japanese national but Uchina. In this sense, adding pair kata (tsuzukite as standartized bunkai and ma-ai practice), both gekisai-gata are a good pack of tools for a "village karateka" (because only Shotokan is Tokyo and Shito-ryu is Osaka at least). ;) As to fukyu (meaning promotional), Jundokan used to teach two of these (very taikyoku alike) as their tribute to Shorin-ryu and the latter teaches our gekisai called fukyu dai san as their tribute to us (oh how cute... but they do it more straightforward, no soft and hard feelings but not hard feelings on them for their tribute to us as we are soft on this spot, too). And a tachi-gata was based on fukyu embusen (don't know if anybody teaches it). Nowadays it becomes obsolete (I believe old Shoreikan schools still teaches fukyu having a third form with mawashi-uke). But fukyu and gekisai would compose a strog basic for a more general and non-style karate, indeed, and as was intended in 1940. Although fukyu, as promotional or demonstrational on Nahate, by it's initial meaning is actually a seisan-gata (RenFair shows). :) Not to bore you to death, but I may add a short right palm block as intermediate movement before jodan-uke (then jodan-uke becomes a strike with a forearm); and chudan-uke are performed as muchimi (tensed slow movements); I prefer ashi-barai before horizontal shuto (hello saifa yet again...); in a second kata while doing hiki-uke, first is also muchimi, but two other hiki-uke are quick and you should step forward with an arc but step back straight line (because bunkai is sweep of the leg from its back) - but YMMV or DWYSS. (must shut up now)
This comment has made the 12 or so hours spent editing so worth it! So we do have those small intermediate movements, but for beginners it is easier just to focus on the big, gross motor movements and then introduce the nuances later. I think Ché discusses them in the bunkai videos for the katas. "three years of training, they say, with constipated belly, they say...I mean, breathing with tanden and achieving gamaku, osu!" brought a big smile to my face (though I did have to look up what gamaku is). We have been doing a little bit of the Fukyu kata, 1, 2 and 3 lately - this video came out of a need to help our brand new beginners. I really don't like being in front of the camera, but hopefully this will be useful to the beginner students. I am so honoured that someone of your experience would actually watch the whole thing right through. Thank you so much, and for always sharing amazing info. Our channel is richer for having you follow us. - Zoe
Ah, thank you so much! I'm glad this old video of mine is still helpful to others out there :) Thank you for taking the time to watch and comment - we appreciate it!
Nice I will be practicing from the start. Been practicing 4 Kata from Zen do kai at home but not much information but has Goju background like Naihunchin (actually not sure if Goju has it may be Shotokan but different), Sanchin, Tencho and Seienchin. I practiced Shotokan Katas to this year up to black belt but find they require more Space. Are Goju Kata's generally used for small spaces? Would really like to know Cheers.
Great question! Some kata are great for small spaces - Tensho and Sanchin require only a couple of meters back and forward. We did a video on corridor training in 2020 here: ua-cam.com/video/VrkXDR9H9pc/v-deo.html (might be time to revisit now that we have better sound etc) and there are ways you can step in a kata where you do a replacing step instead of a forward step. Ideally, you can train Sanchin and Tensho at home and still do some serious kata training (we've covered Sanchin here ) ua-cam.com/video/0RAYao3dLJA/v-deo.html and then supplement that with basics and hojo undo training as well :)
Teacher are this kata two individuals kata or one and if it's , when does it goees from the one to the other? Blessing to you and your family and dojo.
Hello! It is two katas, but the difference between Geki 1 and Geki 2 isn't really enough to justify a whole second learning video. So it goes Geki 1, 2 and then Saifa kata next. Thank you for always sending such kind and thoughtful comments - we appreciate it!
I have a question: Shall I practice this Kata in two months for participating in an international tournement? I mean I just see the kata, can I practice everyday and incorporate it? Thanks a lot! Pdta. Amazing way to teach!
Great question! I guess it depends on the approved kata list, which should be posted by the organizers. Geki Sai Dai Ichi and Ni are often first round kata for kids tournaments - I would recommend something a bit higher if you are an adult - maybe Saifa? Good luck! 🤗
Ah, thank you so much! I'll definitely try come up with something else to teach 🙇🏻♀️ Ps:thanks! It has healed beautifully, I love it! It's still a bit unfinished - the skin was too sore after 4 hours to take in the colour, so waiting another month for it to complete the deep healing part, then going to add colour and touch up the lines. It was done by a brilliant young artist, she's going to be big one day!
I started to learn gekisai dai ichi tonight, with a senior belt. Only got half way through when we started another exercise. My question is, Is gekisai dai ichi, the same for Goju Kai as it is for Goju ryu? If so, I can practice more at home. Thanks heaps, also your channel is amazing! 😊🤙 Sorry, I forgot to add, I practice Goju Kai. Goodness! A more edited comment. I commented before I watched the video. OMG you demonstrated that brilliantly!! I really hope they’re the same in both styles
Hi The kata is fundrmentally the same , biggest difference will come at the end, Goju kai has its own way for the double punches, I think it’s at 45 degree angles, As always do what your sensei says
Hello! I had a question, but first just wanted to state that I love your trainings! My question was where exactly is your dojo? When your trainings I person begin again I would love to attend!
Great question! Our dojo is the home of the Jaguars, which is a play on my husband's surname (Jagger). Once upon a time, our dojo and our sibling dojos all had kumite teams, when we used to compete (about 10 years ago). All members of the dojo are Jaguars, and we call the little ones the Cubs :) It took 64 videos for someone to notice that we use the term Jaguar! Thank you for watching and commenting 🙇🏻♀️
@@GojuRyuKarateCentre ahh that makes sense, I’m from rural NZ I don’t think our country is big enough that we have kumite competitions That said the local MMA club has a team name (Team hammerhead MMA) which may be a future endeavour I don’t think we have a team name as we’re too small, all the dojo’s are too small to have teams which is kind of a shame I wish it was more popular
My husband actually visited NZ for the World Goju Champs in 2015 - he loved his visit there, and would go back in a heartbeat! There are a couple of Goju Ryu heavyweights in the big NZ cities, but we know that rural dojos are often small and far away from each other. South Africa has hundreds and hundreds of little dojos, but they're often far apart from each other and competitions tend to happen in the big cities. Hammerhead is a great team name, I won't lie! And if they do competitions, then you should definitely give it a try 💪
tip: mirror your computer screen to your TV if you can (cromecast works) so you can watch from all angles and slow the video down to 0.5 or 0.75x speed also helps also note to self, watch out for the couch and clothes horse... ouch
Hello! I have translated the video into many language subtitles, and UA-cam is rolling out AI subbing now. Hopefully our videos will soon be available in your language ☺️
I’ve just started karate only a few weeks ago and have only attended a couple classes. I get nervous to attend future classes because honestly I have not been practicing my kata and feel quite guilty about it. Sensei encouraged me that there are videos on his website. Unfortunately they are probably from the eighties and their walk through pace is a bit faster than I can keep up with. Not to mention there is no talking in the video and I thrive in learning when there are verbal cues. This helps SOOOO much! Thank you so much for this, you are such a great teacher. I appreciate the “chicken elbow” and “boring book” analogy, it helps me visualize it so much better. This will help me feel more confident to simply know what the steps look like to start practicing them. Thank you.
This comment has absolutely made my week! I am so glad that my video is helpful, and it is important to try teach in as many ways possible. I am also much better with wordy teaching (I have the most shocking spatial ability, so I cannot flip things around in my mind!) and if I can help someone learn better, then I am happy too.
I am sure your sensei is very proud of you! No one has to know the kata in just a few weeks - we only grade the kata as a whole after 10 months of training! Kata are hard to learn, especially the older we get. So please don't be hard on yourself - I know you are doing your best :)
May your karate journey be long and rewarding!
Best wishes,
Zoë
Same! I started last month and feel guilty when I don’t practice 😭. I’m sure these videos will help us.
I am on the guilty box too and this is helpful, I trained from 2008 to 2012 and did not train again since until I have found this channel and specifically this video, I ever since longed for an elaborative teacher as I was in the beginning received to the art by one, and I think you make quite a good teacher even though I am still struggling to get through Geki sai dai ichi, but this struggle is generally my life struggle manifesting in this also but I know the art is impactful in a social life of an individual due to the qualities that it may instill, such and in utmost how in its maturity instils a level of discipline, which in turn it affects the entire individual affecting the decision making directly,
Because of this I am learning now so I can share with the children in my little village Tanzania, in my home Kilimanjaro. I will say in my language “Asante Sana” Karibu nyumbani kwetu.❤❤❤
55years old and here I am in my living room practising kata , fantastic channel, wonderful instructors(and beautiful also, I'm auld I can say such things) what a treasure trove this channel is, thank you
Thank you so much for these lovely and charming words, Graeme! So delighted to hear from you 🤗
Thanks, it's the best explaining of Geki Sai Dai Ichi Kata, i've found during a long seeking of couple of months.
Thank you so much! I know there are tons of Geki 1 videos out there, so I am honoured mine has been helpful to you 🙇🏻♀️
Thank you for watching and commenting!
Excellent job Zoe. Not just the kata execution but the editing, filming , bloopers, you have raised the bar again.
Ah, you are so kind! I actually kind of hated the video but I tried my best and had to kick it out the door eventually 😅 I couldn't bear to break our 60-odd week streak of uploads.
It's so reassuring to recieve this comment, because all I saw were stupid kata mistakes that were unbecoming of a 3rd dan. But maybe this is why we're also not allowed to grade ourselves either 🤔
Truly, thank you 🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️
@@GojuRyuKarateCentre you are very welcome. I have been working on these 2 kata almost exclusively. I really love goju ryu but as I think I've mentioned I don't have a dojo of my own near me. Your channel has been such a bright light during covid. It has given me something to concentrate on during quarantine. I did find a Goju dojo about an hour away from me. I also found a shotokan school right in my town but I'd really prefer Goju Ryu. Thanks for all you do Zoe.
I know I would really, really struggle to change styles if I moved.
The fact that our channel can be of any use, not just to the students who see us twice week but to practitioners around the world remains an endless source of joy and pride to both Ché and I. Your support and sincere words are priceless 🌺🌺
Thank you for this video. I love your teaching styles. I’m 38 years old and just started training in Goju Ryu. This has helped me immensely. Arigato gozaimasu
Ah, thank you so much, Smarfie! Never too late to start, and your diligent additional study will take you far along this karate journey. Thank you so much for commenting and watching, we truly appreciate it :)
Hello Sensei,
I noticed the bunkai videos and links to other videos are missing from the description. I'm interested in the bunkai videos. Can't wait to watch soon.
“Slow is smooth, smooth is fast.”
It is one of my mantras to myself and my son. It is also something that we used to say in the Army.
Excellent video as always.
Best advice for beginners, they're always in such a rush 🤣
Thank you for these very kind words - they have made my evening 🙇🏻♀️
Thank you. Excellent tutorial. Exactly what I needed as I prepare for my 1st grading next week.
Glad it was helpful! Please let us know how your grading goes!
@@GojuRyuKarateCentre Hello again, I PASSED, and I feel very proud to be wearing my lovely bright yellow belt. Your help and assistance was very much appreciated. A big thank you again. Astar
Now - I need to start learning the next Kata.
Zoe Sensei you should know that you are a natural at video teaching. The reason I started following this channel because I saw one of your basic videos and thought how straight forward your teaching was and how natural your were. Please keep making basics videos.
I do have one question. The Gendan Bari move. What is being blocked? I have found many answers to this and would love to know what the meaning is in your school.
Great editing and thanks again!.
Ah, thank you so for your truly kind and reaffirming feedback! As much as I hate being on camera, I love teaching more 😅
The first gedan berai is often blocking an incoming face punch with the top half of the block (after stepping to the side), and then the second half is basically a groin attack.
The second gedan berai is often blocking a stomach punch and then following with a gyaku tsuki.
At the least, these are the basics I would teach to beginners 🙇🏻♀️
I am hoping to make a return to the channel with one of my fellow lady black belts soon to keep working on teaching basics. Thank you for the sincere and kind comment, truly 🙇🏻♀️
Thank you so so much Sensei! My grading is coming and I was very nervous about the Kata but once I found your video,all that nervousness went away
Glad that the videos helped, good luck with your grading
Thank you so so much Sensei greatly appreciated. Very helpful indeed... Great work as always.
Only a pleasure! Hope it helps all the beginners, especially with grading coming up 🙇🏻♀️
A wonderful video by Sensei Zoe indeed. I liked the emphasis on details, such as, the first move of the kata being a step forward before turning (whereas many would simply make a left turn). The difference is, when you take that step forward, you are avoiding an attack from the left by moving out of the way, and then, that next turn left requires a twisting of the hips and legs，and weight shifting, to generate a rotational power, which of course augments the power of the upper block. The twisting and blocking is a body mechanic that only higher-graders can execute but if they don't have the mind-set of stepping forward before turning as a beginner they may never discover the body-mechanic I described when they become more advanced.
You were spot on with all the details in the kata that one should observe. The laser beams were incredible btw.
I also like the closing hand sequences ,in which you broke it down to 3 sections, right fist in left open palm - right fist under left palm - both palms open. Nowadays so many people just skip the part with the fist under palm. According to my late Sensei, Chojun Miyagi deliberately designed this bit into the kata, Fist on top of the open palm signified the ending of the fight, fist beneath the open palm meant zanshin - the fight is over, you are pacified on the surface, but you remain alert beneath the surface and are ready to attack if the opponent rises again (fist hidden behind an open palm) and finally, both palms are open meaning you are in a fully defensive posture/state of mind. I have almost believed that nobody else teaches this anymore, so it's great to see it here.
About the history of the Fukyu katas, yes the governor of Okinawa comissioned the fukyu-kata series - the idea was to create universal kata that combined concepts from all schools. Soshin Nagamine created Fukyukata dai ichi, and Miyagi Sensei created Fukyukata dai-ni which also he named Gekisai-Dai-Ichi within the Goju-Ryu system. Hence, the unique features of this kata include : Closed-fisted Age-Uke which does not appear in any other Goju-Ryu kata, Oi-Tsuki, again this does not exist in any other Goju-Ryu kata (both moves are however, common in the Shuri-Te system). It is also the only Goju-Ryu kata whereby after a kick and elbow strike, the fist executes a backfist strike. In Sanseru, Shisochin, Kururunfa, the backfist strike is "hidden" - so it seems Chojun Miyagi wanted to make it known to beginners, that this bunkai exists after the elbow strike. This kata also gives the beginner a complete run through of blocks - upper middle and lower blocks for both arms, as well as upper punch and middle punch, a knife-hand strike each hand plus 2 double punches. As you rightly pointed out, this is the only kata that ends with stepping forward- Miyagi Chojun designed it this way to signify the idea that karate should be progressing with the times. You start the kata by moving out of the way of aggression, but end it by moving forward, you end by offering peace but maintaining Zanshin.This sums up Chojun Miyagi's philosophy to karate and his outlook to life. A lot of thought was put into this kata's design - and it is one of my favourite kata of the Goju-System. One can tell so much about a Goju-Ryu karateka just from watching him/her perform this kata - and Sensei Zoe does this kata really well, and probably teaches students very well too.
Keep up the great work Sensei Che and Zoe.
Ah, so now I finally have an answer as to *why* we do the fist-opening thing just before ending the kata. It's one of those things that we've always just done, but never thought about. This deeper philosophical insight into Geki Sai kata is priceless, and we are so grateful for it.
When I did my research for this, the aggression of Geki 1 was always mentioned, never the offering of peace at the end. I really like this interpretation, and it tracks with a) Pinan, the kata of peace, and b) Miyagi Sensei learning from his time in the military as a young man, and seeing so much suffering at the height of Japan's imperial expansion. Considering how much he would lose by the end of the war, it is a sad irony.
As for all the bunkai seeds that are planted in these two kata, it is so lovely to see them grow across all the kata, and show up at the very end in Suparinpei! (My knowledge of this last kata is very very shaky, but I have followed other people doing it, and it is a delight to see all the callbacks to earlier kata). You are right that things that are 'obvious' in this kata are still important enough to keep showing up later.
Your words are so kind! I teach this kata ALL the time, because I take the bulk of the junior and newbie classes, especially when it is chimney season and Ché is only available later in the evening to take the seniors and adults. (Also, I am very much the opening act to his luminous genius.) And since my first talent is writing and storytelling, using metaphors and weird imagery really helps kids remember.
When I approached the heads of our federation 6 years ago to become an instructor, they approved my deshi journey not as a talented practitioner (I am definitely not), but more as a conductor of light. To quote Arthur Conan Doyle in the first Sherlock Holmes book: "It may be that you are not yourself luminous, but you are a conductor of light. Some people without possessing genius have a remarkable power of stimulating it." It is my profound privilege to be a conductor of light for others.
Thank you for bringing your genius to our channel, and sharing such incredible insights. Each video has brought us more knowledge than we put out there - it is a net gain of wisdom!
PS: Apologies for my delayed response - I prefer to reply via PC, so that I can read your comment properly and type the response you deserve. It just isn't the same on the app version of UA-cam studio.
I loved this tutorial. It's great coming back into a class (even if it's online) as my home dojo is in Kansas City, MO and I am living in Istanbul for a time. I am a 3rd dan black belt and still growing! I like your style and will stay tuned into this channel.
Thanks for all the comments
We appreciate them all,
Keep training !!
Che
Just started karate way (am not a young lass) and two years in - decided to get graded last year to blue belt. I am learning in my living room this kata as I have been struggling with the final bits - helps me so much with facing off camera and in front so it is easy to learn the moves. Please keep the channel going.
Thank you so, so much for this lovely and thoughtful comment! I am so happy that my little video was helpful, and I hope to keep producing content that helps beginners navigate the steep learning curve of karate. I remember when it was me, and how lost (and often demotivated!) I felt. I remember looking at this kata as a white belt and thinking "I'll never learn this!" - luckily I had a sempai who stepped in and helped me, and if he hadn't been so patient, I might never have gotten good enough in the long run to produce this.
So if I can be your digital sempai, then I am most happy :)
Best wishes,
Zoë
@Shampancha, great to read another lady has taken up karate ! Congratulations on your blue belt grading, what style of karate do you study please ? How often do you train ? Are you going to be a black belt one day ? We have more women training at my dojo then men many are Dan grades !...
@ Goju Ryu and I am now a yellow belt. Just finished grading last week. Am trying to learn Gekesai bungkai- it’s a bit hard but I think the challenge is good for the brain. We train 90 minutes once to twice a week. Can be hard on our bones peri/post menopause
Outstanding explanation of this Kata. Great work and thanks for the breakdown. Please keep sharing as i learnt a lot.
Ah, thank you so much! We hope to keep producing videos for you :)
Sensei, you are an excellent instructor. I look forward to seeing more instructional videos from you.
So kind, Bill! I've got some in the pipeline, so please do stay tuned 🙏
These two Kata's are new to me and I am learning the basic pattern through online tutorials. I have found yours to be clear and informative. I have enjoyed viewing your video. I am on the look out for others. Thank you.
Glad they could help
Thank you for this wonderful, easy to understand and remember. Will definitely keep watching!!
And thank *you* so much for this really lovely comment! It means so much to me 🙇🏻♀️
I love how you teach your viewers and the humble attitude you display. This is very helpful for me as I started studying years ago in Hawaii an Okinawa style called Ryu Kyu which seems more similar to Goju Ryu than to Shotokan. Thank you for the work you do. Are we able to donate to your dojo?
Ah, thank you so much for your kind and warm words!
Yes, Ryu Kyu is definitely closer to Goju than Shotokan, though as far as I know it isn't as widespread.
You are so kind to support what we do! We are planning to launch our memberships soon, with a few tier options. We will have a $1 tier, and at most maybe a $10 tier, which will also include Zoom classes/livestreams for our international students.
For now, we are most grateful for your subscription and comments, as they help us grow 🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️
Thanks for putting this video together, Sensei! You're absolutely right about doing these katas thousands of times. Anytime a new student comes into the dojo, it means everyone gets to do these two katas again from the beginning (and there's nothing wrong with that, of course). Mastering the basics means doing it over and over until it's... well, I guess I have to keep doing it because it's still not perfect. 😉
Perfection is boring anyway! It's the striving that makes us interesting.
I remember when I first started learning this kata, and how impossible it seemed. I would have quit if it weren't for my Sempai, who took the time to teach me the kata on the weekends. If I can help someone get over the steep learning curve of their first kata, then I'm happy 🌺
The absence of perfect is the best part of the journey ❤
Thank you very much - this has been incredibly helpful as I start to learn these katas. Such clear and encouraging instruction.
Ah, thank you so much for these really kind words! You inspire me to make more videos like this 🙏
Na minha opinião esse foi o melhor tutorial de Gekisai Dai It que assisti até agora, e olha que assisti vários.
Parabéns pela maneira didática de explicar cada movimento.
Virei seguidor do canal.
Thank you.
Osssss!
Thank you so much for these very, very kind words! I am so happy my little video was helpful in learning this essential Kata!
I have been putting off going through the comments, because as we grow, unfortunately we also attract clowns who don't appreciate what we do.
But then I read comments like this, and I am restored in my faith in what we do 🙏🏻
Thank you so much for the lovely comment, and for taking the time to watch all the way through! 🤗
Thank you!
Ossssss!
Love your teaching
I am currently studying Goju here in New York holding a purple belt and two belts away from black
This teaching definitely helped me study the steps and forms of this kata thank you so much 🙏
Ah, thank you so much for the kind words!
The journey to black belt is great - it only gets better after black 🖤
Long may your karate journey last!
Excellent breakdown Zoe Sensei, this is exactly how I teach these kata too and will be sending to my own students.
Ah, that's a compliment of the highest honour - thank you so much! Thank you for the lovely comment, and apologies for the late reply - I'm working though the comment backlog >.<
Best,
Zoe
I practice Kyokushin with the local dojo, here, in the Gaspé, Québec, Canada. I just fell on your video tonight. It's very interesting to learn about katas from other styles. Thanks!
Hello! Thank you so much for commenting - we love to hear from practitioners in other styles! Big respect for Kyokushin - no one fights harder!
You are the best teacher on UA-cam. You are so cute with being nervous in front of my camera. Your sanchin dachi is interesting. Our school has the foot way more turned then yours. Overall amazing points to help students!! Keep it up
Ah, you are so kind 🩷 🩷 I've come a long way since this video, but I still get nervous every now and then when doing livestreams 🙈
This was a brilliant video. You explain very well and the movements are presented in a very easy way. I look forward to watching many more videos on this channel. Dankie en mooi bly.
Ah thank you so much, Hamid! We don't get a lot of comments from our fellow South Africans on the channel, so it is so nice to hear from you. We hope to keep providing quality content for years to come :)
Good,clear, concise explanation of movements in both katas. An invaluable reference for those starting to learn the basic moves of the kata. Well done on an excellent presentation, Zoe.
Ah, thank you so much, John! This was exactly my goal - to make something to help beginners when they're not in the dojo and are training on their own. It's never my intention to replace the dojo or instructor, but to only pass on the information I've been so fortunate to recieve 🙇🏻♀️
Thank you Sensei! This is very helpful for my upcoming grading. I'm currently working in my kata and perfecting all my moves. I'll be sure to send you my video soon!!😸
Ah, thanks MK! So proud of your hard work and rapid progress in such a short time 👏🏻
@@GojuRyuKarateCentre Thank you Sensei Zoe!🤗🥋
Nicely done! Very nice walkthrough of this first Kata. For those just learning this Sense (teacher) is showing the traditional Goju Ryu kata, only difference from ours is Sanshin stance. Expect small differences though.
Thank you very much! These kind words made my morning 🥰 which style/federation do you hail from?
@@GojuRyuKarateCentre Okinawa Goju Ryu Goyu-Kan. My teacher Anthony Willis learned in Okinawa while stationed there in the Air force from Anyu Shinjo for a total of 5 years, Anyu Shinjo Sense was trained by Eiichi Miyazato to give you a better idea of the lineage. I personally have been practicing for 6 years now. I can tell you have been teaching for a some time now, you are very good at breaking it all down!
Thanks so much! Using this to review from class on Monday past and prep for this Friday. 🎉❤
Yay! I'm so glad my little video has turned out to be helpful, far more than I ever anticipated :D
Very comprehensive and thorough. Thank you
You're very welcome! I'm always so glad to hear that my little videos are helpful ☺️
Excellent video. Thank you! Have to say that my best part is you putting your hands on your hips whilst thinking about Mitsuyo Maeda's quote. Incredible how powerful the unconscious is!
I was actually so delighted when I went back to get the pin off my pinterest board and it turned out that way! I use that quote all the time with the kids, so apparently my unconscious really did hang on to it!
Thank you so much for your kind words, I truly appreciate it.
Thank you Sensei I'm in a GOJU RYU class now you help me with my KATA I learn by watching your videos
Ah, thank you so much for taking the time to watch and comment, Billy! We wish you a long and rewarding Goju Ryu journey 🙇
Thank you Sensei
I have a grading tomorrow and I was terrible at this kata. Now, I have a lot of confidence. Thanks!
Awesome!!
Good Luck with your grading
Zoë here - I'm so glad my little video was helpful! Let us know how your grading goes 💪🏻
Very well explained. I’ve just started to learn this kata.
Ah, thank you so much! I've done a more up to date one since, but this one is a classic, and I'm so glad it's helping you 🌸
@@GojuRyuKarateCentreI practiced the kata all of Saturday and was asked to perform it last night in class. The sensei was well impressed with good hand movements. All thanks to this video!
Thank you for that bare basics video! Review is always Omni-important. The history of a kata’s origin is always fascinating to learn about/discover- and/or, in this case, review. So thank you. Also, as with the wrap up, I’ve always LOVED the “behind the scenes/bloopers” at the end of any movie/video! It really puts into perspective just how much goes into the process of editing and the over all process of artistry, if not just your obvious love for, and dedication to, your life’s passion! You’re doing great, Sensei;). Keep it up!
Ah, Mark! Thank you so much for these kind words - truly they mean a great deal to this neurotic instructor 😂
I will definitely add bloopers to my videos in the future - there really aren't many with Ché! Usually his videos are one smooth take, so its much faster to edit his videos. (And that's with him teaching off the cuff: we haven't gotten to the point of being organised enough to have scripted videos.)
This lovely comment got my Monday off to a great start - thank you!
Excellent explaination about Geki Sai Dai Ichi Kata And Ni! Spet By Step. Thank you very much. Teacher Kisses...
You are welcome! Thank you so much for taking the time to watch and comment, we really appreciate it 🙇
Finally got around to watching this, thank you Sensei! It helps so much!
Only a pleasure! I just want it to be helpful to someone 🤗
Merci, vous expliquez très bien 👍
Ah, thank you so much for the kind words 🥰 I try my best 🙏🏻
Hi Zoe Sensei, first great and excellent instructions. I originally started karate in SA many years ago with Shotokan style in Germiston and Johannesburg, now in Canada (34 years) been experiencing different styles over the years, including Goju. Watching your video, I am seeing a lot detail that sometimes gets ‘lost in translation’ watching various videos. Thanx for this video 🙏🙏
Ah, thank you so much for the truly generous comment, Selwyn! Always a delight to hear from our fellow South Africans, no matter where they are in the world! (Canada is our 5th biggest country by views, by the way.)
I'm so glad that the detail gets across, for Miyagi is in the details! I'm always amazed by people who can train in other styles - I can't imagine starting over, and over, again. But the width and depth of your knowledge must be amazing. Thank you so much for stopping by our little channel :)
Best,
Zoe
Hi Zoe Sensei, about starting over etc., I look at this more as enriching my mind and keeping it active. With an open mind, one can appreciate so much more. I am affiliated to and a member of Northern Karate Schools. Yes there is a very large Goju following. I am friends with and train with a few Sensei in Goju Ryu. Sensei Steve Arms, Sensei Kristie Bilodeau and Sensei Mike & Laura Sywyk, all amazing Sensei and friends. Who knows, perhaps on my next trip to Johannesburg, we could connect.
Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! You guys are sooo awesome, thank you again. I've found this sooo helpful getting back into Goju Ryu after a long time off. Much appreciated.
So glad! These are the comments that affirm that we are on the right path with our content 🐝 we might not be flashy, but at least we can be helpful 🐛
Thank you master, I plaied karate 3 years and stopped. Since 45 days I restarted to practice this beautiful discipline, on my own, watching UA-cam. I would take lesson in a dojo near my city, in September and going to the Olimpics, this Is my Dream! ❤️
Wonderful! I am so glad you made it back to karate, and I wish you many happy and successful years! 🤗
Well done Zoë
Thank you, my love ❤️
I love the video! Great explanation! Thank you!
Thank you so much! I try my best! Thank you for taking the time to watch and comment - may your training in 2025 be rewarding and empowering!
In Matsubayashi Shorin Ryu, Gekisai kata are known as Fukyuata. Both O Sensei Chojun Miyagi and O Sensei Shosin Nagamine collaborated and developed these forms for beginners and to get the general public's interest in karate. Great video.
Such important katas in our history, and it is important to remember that they are beginner's kata, and no less important for it. People say "I'm done with Geki Sai Dai Ichi", but if you do karate for life, you'll do it thousands of times :)
@GojuRyuKarateCentre Absolutely! Once kuro-obi is achieved, one has to go back to the basics- with a new set of eyes and an understanding.
Great video! You're an endearing instructor and easy to follow in my opinion. I've got a Shotokan black belt so my perspective is weird and skewed. Not your typical student😅
Ah, thank you so much for the kind words! And we never really leave Geki Sai Dai Ichi or Ni behind - I still get asked to do them at gradings, and I'm heading for yondan in 2025 (maybe). Thank you for taking the time to watch and comment :D
Hola! Ha sido de mucha ayuda tu video, yo practico Goju Ryu Taishu Kai, y esa será la próxima kata que presentaré en mi examen. Saludos!
¡Hola!
¡Estoy tan contenta de que esto haya sido útil en tus preparativos! Su estudio diligente y su ética de trabajo lo llevarán hasta el cinturón negro, estoy seguro.
Muchas gracias por mirar y comentar, siempre lo apreciamos :)
Love the ending with the bloopers. Nice to see. Lol
It's important to stay humble 😂
Thank you Sensei for detailed video and explanation.
Would you please clarify a few questions regarding the kata?
1. On 4.42, at kiai point (and the same on second kiai) you are punching in the plane of your shoulder/hip/leg. Question is that is it mandatory to do it that way in kata pattern or in some versions/schools you can direct your punch to the middle line of opponent's body, so the punch would go to navel/groin direction instead?
2. On 5.20 at Jodan yoko shuto uchi - you are not crossing the arms first using your left arm to grab the opponent's wrist. Question - is it common for all Goju Ryu branches or there are some differences acceptable? The reason why I'm asking is because on one of the videos I think Higaonna Sensei he was showing and explaining this part as grabbing the wrist and using to shuto to strike the neck, but I may be incorrect.
Thank you again for the time and efforts and all explanation of the details!
Both excellent questions! I will try my best to answer 🤗
1) Our kiai punch is directed to the Goju line, which is an imaginary line going down the shoulder, down the chest and over the short ribs, so we are aiming to hit the short ribs, break them, and maybe burst the pancreas. However, your school might suggest a middle line punch - absolutely fine too!
2) So, when I was with another federation, we used to cross the arms just before the strike. It is in our bunkai, but not visible in our kata. OGKK doesn't like bunkai being obvious when performing the kata - it must be "hidden", as it were.
As always, do what your Sensei says! I am so happy to read your comments and thoughts 🙇🏻♀️
@@GojuRyuKarateCentre Thank you so much for the detailed response!
Very didactic!
I'm learning Gojo-Ryu and this is a great video for learning!
Ah, what a lovely comment! I'm so glad you found my little video helpful :D
Hello and thank you for your video.
I just found your channel and subscribed.
I practice Shotokan karate in a club but I am also interested in the Goju Ryu style.
Unfortunately, there are no courses in my region in France and your courses will help me to practice at home in parallel with my practice of Shotokan.
Thank you.
Thank you for the subscription! We hope you will continue to find our channel useful. Perhaps one day you will be able to train with a Goju Ryu instructor in your area!
Thank you so much for taking the time to watch and comment! Please forgive our very late reply to your thoughtful comment.
The kata that I didn't like initially. Because it's too Shuriteish and Shorinryuish, not like a proper Goju-ryu or any ryuha from Nahate. :) Notice, this one is the only kata that got frontal jodan-uke which is not used in Nahate styles at all, because... who needs three levels and four blocks to protect (hello Shotokan friends!) when two levels to defend are more than enough: upper above your solar plexus including head hence fist/palm up (that's why a fist in our chudan-uke draws on eyes' level) and lower part below your solar plexus hence fist/palm down; and elbow is at the solar plexus anyway. :)))
On the other hand (gyaku or oi, doesn't mater for awase), this kata is good to learn just an introduction to Goju-ryu style without even bothering with sanchin-gata (three years of training, they say, with constipated belly, they say...I mean, breathing with tanden and achieving gamaku, osu!) and then to go to a mandatory military service in Japanese imperial army and not to get your ass kicked because you're not a "proper" Japanese national but Uchina. In this sense, adding pair kata (tsuzukite as standartized bunkai and ma-ai practice), both gekisai-gata are a good pack of tools for a "village karateka" (because only Shotokan is Tokyo and Shito-ryu is Osaka at least). ;)
As to fukyu (meaning promotional), Jundokan used to teach two of these (very taikyoku alike) as their tribute to Shorin-ryu and the latter teaches our gekisai called fukyu dai san as their tribute to us (oh how cute... but they do it more straightforward, no soft and hard feelings but not hard feelings on them for their tribute to us as we are soft on this spot, too). And a tachi-gata was based on fukyu embusen (don't know if anybody teaches it). Nowadays it becomes obsolete (I believe old Shoreikan schools still teaches fukyu having a third form with mawashi-uke). But fukyu and gekisai would compose a strog basic for a more general and non-style karate, indeed, and as was intended in 1940. Although fukyu, as promotional or demonstrational on Nahate, by it's initial meaning is actually a seisan-gata (RenFair shows). :)
Not to bore you to death, but I may add a short right palm block as intermediate movement before jodan-uke (then jodan-uke becomes a strike with a forearm); and chudan-uke are performed as muchimi (tensed slow movements); I prefer ashi-barai before horizontal shuto (hello saifa yet again...); in a second kata while doing hiki-uke, first is also muchimi, but two other hiki-uke are quick and you should step forward with an arc but step back straight line (because bunkai is sweep of the leg from its back) - but YMMV or DWYSS. (must shut up now)
This comment has made the 12 or so hours spent editing so worth it!
So we do have those small intermediate movements, but for beginners it is easier just to focus on the big, gross motor movements and then introduce the nuances later. I think Ché discusses them in the bunkai videos for the katas.
"three years of training, they say, with constipated belly, they say...I mean, breathing with tanden and achieving gamaku, osu!" brought a big smile to my face (though I did have to look up what gamaku is).
We have been doing a little bit of the Fukyu kata, 1, 2 and 3 lately - this video came out of a need to help our brand new beginners. I really don't like being in front of the camera, but hopefully this will be useful to the beginner students. I am so honoured that someone of your experience would actually watch the whole thing right through. Thank you so much, and for always sharing amazing info. Our channel is richer for having you follow us.
- Zoe
@@GojuRyuKarateCentre : thank you and keep doing a great job (so we have something to watch and comment on)! :)
Hai, will do!
@@GojuRyuKarateCentre : ossssssssssssssssssss! :)))
Thank you for the great explanation. Love it 👍
Ah, thank you so much for the kind words! So glad you found it helpful 🙇🏻♀️
This will help for grading thanks
Only a pleasure, Noah 🙇🏻♀️
Your teaching sensei is very good
Thank you so so much! I really appreciate it :)
Perfect explanation thank you very much😊😊😊😊
So kind! Thank you 🩷
Very good instruction!
Ah, thank you so much! I'm glad this old video of mine is still helpful to others out there :)
Thank you for taking the time to watch and comment - we appreciate it!
Nice I will be practicing from the start. Been practicing 4 Kata from Zen do kai at home but not much information but has Goju background like Naihunchin (actually not sure if Goju has it may be Shotokan but different), Sanchin, Tencho and Seienchin. I practiced Shotokan Katas to this year up to black belt but find they require more Space. Are Goju Kata's generally used for small spaces? Would really like to know Cheers.
Great question!
Some kata are great for small spaces - Tensho and Sanchin require only a couple of meters back and forward. We did a video on corridor training in 2020 here: ua-cam.com/video/VrkXDR9H9pc/v-deo.html (might be time to revisit now that we have better sound etc) and there are ways you can step in a kata where you do a replacing step instead of a forward step.
Ideally, you can train Sanchin and Tensho at home and still do some serious kata training (we've covered Sanchin here ) ua-cam.com/video/0RAYao3dLJA/v-deo.html and then supplement that with basics and hojo undo training as well :)
@@GojuRyuKarateCentre thank you I will look into it
Thanks very much for this - very well communicated!
Ah, thank you so much! I really appreciate the watch and comment 🙇🏻♀️
Beautiful master!
Thank You , She is!
This is so helpful! Thank you x
So glad! This is all I hope for with my videos 🙇🏻♀️
THANK you sensei
I will comment this after completing daily
Keep it up, Nihal!
Thank you sensei
Sensei I have a question should i do basics daily with kata or just do geki sai sai inchi kata only
What should I do next
Basics every day, and keep practicing Geki Sai Dai Ichi and then Geki Sai Dai Ni 🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️
Teacher are this kata two individuals kata or one and if it's , when does it goees from the one to the other? Blessing to you and your family and dojo.
Hello! It is two katas, but the difference between Geki 1 and Geki 2 isn't really enough to justify a whole second learning video. So it goes Geki 1, 2 and then Saifa kata next.
Thank you for always sending such kind and thoughtful comments - we appreciate it!
I have a question: Shall I practice this Kata in two months for participating in an international tournement? I mean I just see the kata, can I practice everyday and incorporate it? Thanks a lot! Pdta. Amazing way to teach!
Great question! I guess it depends on the approved kata list, which should be posted by the organizers. Geki Sai Dai Ichi and Ni are often first round kata for kids tournaments - I would recommend something a bit higher if you are an adult - maybe Saifa?
Good luck! 🤗
This is amazing. Thank you for the Japanese nomenclature ❤
Ah, thank you so much, Paul! I try my best :)
- Zoe
Top tutorial! Thx please more! By the way: cool tattoo 👍
Ah, thank you so much! I'll definitely try come up with something else to teach 🙇🏻♀️
Ps:thanks! It has healed beautifully, I love it! It's still a bit unfinished - the skin was too sore after 4 hours to take in the colour, so waiting another month for it to complete the deep healing part, then going to add colour and touch up the lines. It was done by a brilliant young artist, she's going to be big one day!
I started to learn gekisai dai ichi tonight, with a senior belt. Only got half way through when we started another exercise. My question is,
Is gekisai dai ichi, the same for Goju Kai as it is for Goju ryu? If so, I can practice more at home. Thanks heaps, also your channel is amazing! 😊🤙
Sorry, I forgot to add, I practice Goju Kai.
Goodness! A more edited comment. I commented before I watched the video.
OMG you demonstrated that brilliantly!! I really hope they’re the same in both styles
Hi
The kata is fundrmentally the same , biggest difference will come at the end, Goju kai has its own way for the double punches, I think it’s at 45 degree angles,
As always do what your sensei says
Thanks for your valuable kata
Thank you for your lovely comment! 🥰
Hello! I had a question, but first just wanted to state that I love your trainings! My question was where exactly is your dojo? When your trainings I person begin again I would love to attend!
Thank you! So glad you enjoyed the video!
We are based in Johannesburg, South Africa. Hoping to add virtual dojo to our offerings soon!
@@GojuRyuKarateCentre Would absolutely love virtual training!
Watch this space, announcements coming soon ;)
Super Tutorial ❤👌🙏
Thank you! Cheers! I try my best 🙏🏻
Thanks! Very helpful 👍
Yay! I'm so glad, Jesper - I just want my little video to help others improve their journey 🥋
This was excellent. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful! This is all I hope for with my little videos 🤗
Very good explanation...
Ah, thank you so much! I really appreciate it 🙇🏻♀️
I'm being graded with this kata tomorrow, anxiety is over the roof!
Your diligent training will pay off! See you at the dojo tomorrow 👏👏👏
Thank you ! It is so helpful❤❤❤
I'm so glad! ❤️❤️❤️
Thanks Zoe Sensei ❤️🙇🏼♂️
Pleasure, Migs 😘😘
Thank you, Sensei! I'm about to test for orange belt and this is really helping me learn my kata!
Best of luck! Please tell me how it went - I am sure your diligent self-training will reflect in your grading 👏
Thank you sensei!
Any time!
Thank you very much Sensei!
My pleasure! Thank you for taking the time to watch and comment - we really appreciate it!
Thank you!
You're welcome! - Zoë
i love gojuru
Goju Ryu is amazing! Wishing you an amazing training year in 2025!
Nice tutorial❤
Thank you! Cheers!
what is a jaguar?
Great question! Our dojo is the home of the Jaguars, which is a play on my husband's surname (Jagger). Once upon a time, our dojo and our sibling dojos all had kumite teams, when we used to compete (about 10 years ago).
All members of the dojo are Jaguars, and we call the little ones the Cubs :)
It took 64 videos for someone to notice that we use the term Jaguar!
Thank you for watching and commenting 🙇🏻♀️
@@GojuRyuKarateCentre ahh that makes sense, I’m from rural NZ I don’t think our country is big enough that we have kumite competitions
That said the local MMA club has a team name (Team hammerhead MMA) which may be a future endeavour
I don’t think we have a team name as we’re too small, all the dojo’s are too small to have teams which is kind of a shame I wish it was more popular
Great video by the way, I’m going to refer to you guys more often when practising at home
My husband actually visited NZ for the World Goju Champs in 2015 - he loved his visit there, and would go back in a heartbeat!
There are a couple of Goju Ryu heavyweights in the big NZ cities, but we know that rural dojos are often small and far away from each other. South Africa has hundreds and hundreds of little dojos, but they're often far apart from each other and competitions tend to happen in the big cities.
Hammerhead is a great team name, I won't lie! And if they do competitions, then you should definitely give it a try 💪
Ah, thank you so much! We're glad that our videos are helpful to practitioners around the world 🙇🏻♀️
tip: mirror your computer screen to your TV if you can (cromecast works) so you can watch from all angles and slow the video down to 0.5 or 0.75x speed also helps
also note to self, watch out for the couch and clothes horse... ouch
Chromecast is our friend! (But not the clothes horse 😂)
Great instruction. Arigato
Hai! Dou itashimashte! I really appreciate you taking the time to watch and comment on my little video :)
Nice. Thank you
Welcome 😊
I go to kyokushin and I am a brown belt,this-is good
Ah, thank you so much!
Thanks
Only a pleasure! Thank you for watching and commenting 🙇🏻♀️
讚👍👍!!
👍
Ty sensei
You are so welcome!
But sensei this was for 2 years ago and i have learned it bc off you and i think i can pass the grading
I like...from Indonesia
🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️
I like Goju Ryu Kata personally.
And my favourite Goju Ryu kata is Shisochin! based on your previous comment on the channel, I'd guess Saifa is yours?
Thanks mam for it
Most welcome 😊thank you for taking the time to watch and comment!
Awesome...
Thank you so much!
Thankyou.
You're welcome!
Pena o canal ser em inglês. Muito boa didática.
Hello!
I have translated the video into many language subtitles, and UA-cam is rolling out AI subbing now. Hopefully our videos will soon be available in your language ☺️
It's Good....
Thank you!
1:07
Hope you enjoyed that
Che
@Goju Ryu Karate Centre
LOL...!!!!
Hi...Sensei...!!!
Much Cracking & Popping
12:54
The children have so much to look forward to....!!!! LOL...!!!
Cracking and popping like a bowl of rice crispies 🤣
Cracking and popping like a bowl of rice crispies 🤣