Methodology
Since its very conception, Zen Do Kai has meant ‘the best of everything in progression’ to us. It has always had the one overriding concept, does the technique really work? With that in mind Zen Do Kai has gone through constant evaluation, endeavoring to search for just that, truth in practicality. In the teachings of my discipline as a fighting system, Zen Do Kai endeavors to be a total purist. As a purist we translate Zen Do Kai to be adaptable to its current environment, which happens to be right in the now, to be a constant winner you have to be able to adapt to change.
Our syllabus not only includes what can be described as Karate techniques and Karate Forms (or Kata), but also the principles and practices of locks & holds, throws, grappling, boxing, kick boxing and Muay Thai Boxing as well as traditional weaponry. Pete is working strongly in the area of using de-escalation principles and understanding ones emotions before, during and after a violent situation. Pete, for that reason is following the Geoff Thompson Principles to the letter, Geoff is a well known teacher in this area. Hence to encompass these entire elements, the term “Martial Arts” sits comfortably along side Zen Do Kai.
General Class Rundown
Zen Do Kai classes follow the guidelines of a well structured syllabus and provide a great deal of variety and an excellent physical work out. Students are able to work and advance at their own pace and are always encouraged to strive to achieve their personal best. Classes can typically include:
* Stretching and warm up
* Technique and skills development
* Partner and pad training
* Self defence applications
* Group theory (forms and drills)
* Touch contact sparring
* Stretching and cool down
In class, students are divided into groups according to their experience, each group identified by the wearing of different colored belts. Brand new students wear a white belt before progressing to yellow, orange, blue, then green, brown and finally black. Grading’s are held at regular intervals throughout the year to give students the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned at class and to progress to the next level. It is important for students to experience a feeling of “elevation” and a sense of achievement. Students attempt a grading when they and their instructor believe they are ready to progress to the next level, working their way through the levels at their own pace.
After successfully completing a grading students receive the next level belt and a certificate of achievement. Usually, students attempting colored grading’s, do so locally at the club. More senior grading’s, such as Black Belt and above are held at special grading days, where students and instructors all come together from a variety of areas. This is done so to promote on going standards and ensuring that there is more formality in this important achievements. When grading, the essence is in competing against yourself; that is, to better your last performance, to over come fear, apprehension and indecision and to display commitment and effort. It is because of these elements that ultimately see the students reach their goals.
