Lecture Notes: Hands-Only Performance of Sanchin Kata

Introduction

• Focus of the lesson: Hands-only performance of Sanchin Kata.
• Approach: Separate practice into hands-only, stances-only, and then combine.
• Benefits: Faster progression, fewer mistakes, can practice anywhere, particularly beneficial for children.

Main Techniques in Sanchin Kata

1. Straight Punch
2. Middle Block
3. Osayuki
4. Toriguchi

Key Aspects to Focus On

• Intent and structure behind each punch, not just the punch itself.
• Chamber Hand Positioning: Elbow lower than the hand, shoulder down.
• Retracting Motion: Pull as if pulling something, activate back muscles.
• Punch Execution:
  • Start from shoulder.
  • Arm and elbow follow body contour.
  • Muchimi (pushing into body)
  • Maintain a straight line in front of the mirror.
• Structure During Blocking:
  • Elbow follows body contour.
  • Rotate arm with elbow down.
  • Short punch length, relevant to close combat (Goju-Ryu).

Specific Techniques

• Middle Block:

  • Elbow inside starting point.
  • Hand lower than shoulder with a wrist curve.
  • Forward force, block along body contour.
  • Practice in staccato or rolling count.

• Osayuki (Pressing Block):

  • Visualize pressing like the Hulk.
  • Press down with shoulders, forearms, triceps.
  • Rotate bicep, maintain elbow position.

• Nukite (Spear Hand):

  • Follow body contour, lock down like Hulk.
  • Press forward, elbows back then forward.

• Toriguchi:

  • Synonymous with Goju-Ryu.
  • Twist and lock hand position.
  • Hand movements with coordinated upper body structure.

San Chin Kata Practice

• Meaning: "Three Battles", every third step/segment signifies a new technique.
• Begin from Musubi Dachi, follow a structured step-by-step approach.
• Practice sequence repeatedly, focusing on hand techniques independently from footwork.

Conclusion

• San Chin Kata as an evolving practice, growing with experience.
• Importance of internal concepts and maintaining technique integrity.
• Future lessons will follow a similar structure for other katas.
• Thanks and instruction to continue practicing as described.

Additional Notes

• Encourage looking in the mirror for posture confirmation.
• Application of movements not just for offense but also defense and transitional techniques.
• Emphasis on internal structure over external form.

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These notes summarize the key points from the lesson on hands-only practice of Sanchin Kata, focusing on precise movements, alignment, and internal structure. Further practice is encouraged to refine and internalize these techniques.