Karate Lecture Notes: Timing of Attacks

Introduction

• Speaker: Musca Nagano
• Topic: Timing of your attack in karate
• Focus: Opponent's movements rather than personal technique
• Four key situations for timing of attacks:
  1. Before the opponent's attack
  2. When the opponent starts moving for their attack
  3. When the opponent finishes their attack
  4. After the opponent's attack

Situation 1: Before the Opponent's Attack

• Opponent is stationary; center of gravity not shifting.
• Conditions for a successful attack:
  1. Speed:
     • Be faster than the opponent's counterattacks.
     • Focus on:
       • Staying relaxed during the attack.
       • Effective body movement without unnecessary motion.
       • Regular practice to build confidence in speed.
  2. Attack complexity:
     • Disperse the opponent’s attention with combinations (Benzokuwaza).
     • Examples of combinations:
       • One-two punch.
       • Gaku and Akakuzuki combination.
       • Attack the face then stomach.
       • Series of three attacks (one-two-three).
  3. Timing of stepping in:
     • Four types of stepping in:
       1. Full step in then attack.
       2. Stop then punch.
       3. Step in closer and punch.
       4. Half-step in with back leg and punch.
  4. Simplicity of movements:
     • Avoid flinching or unnecessary initial movements.
     • Ensure:
       • Fist moves first (e.g., Chuganzuki).
       • Shoulders and hips stay parallel to the ground.

Situation 2: Opponent Starts Moving for Their Attack

• Known as "Sen no Sen" (attack before the opponent).
• Techniques:
  • Kizamizuki or Katuzuki.
  • Practice with a partner maintaining equal rhythm and gradually increase speed.
  • Scoring: 3 points for the attacker; 1 point for the counter.

Situation 3: Opponent Finishes Their Attack

• Counter timing is slightly delayed.
• Techniques:
  • Use of Chew Down Zuki or similar techniques.
  • Practice attacking simultaneously with the opponent's movement.
  • Scoring: Maintain point system similar to previous situation.

Situation 4: After the Opponent Finishes Their Attack

• Techniques:
  • Three types of attacks:
    1. Snap out and attack with a Jonan.
    2. Move to the side and counter.
    3. Head kick (e.g., Mawashi Geri).
  • Focus on mixing attacks and maintaining rhythm.

Conclusion

• Summary of the four situations and their importance in timing attacks in karate.
• Encouragement to practice and reach out for feedback (e.g., Instagram).
• Next session preview.