Training

The principles of Shinseido are transmitted in two main ways:

• Through the practice of kata, or solo form (a sequence of techniques strung together). Some forms are modern, some are steeped in tradition and have a long history.
• Through the practice of exercises with a training partner. These help students to work on many different skills in a safe environment. Some exercises are fixed, in which the movements of both students are completely determined. Others allow for a free and spontaneous exchange of techniques. The meaning of the kata are explored, with a partner, through the practice of their applications.

Shinseido contains a wide range of techniques, giving practitioners the opportunity to respond to assault with different degrees of severity. The severity used will depend entirely on the circumstances of a particular situation. It is not always necessary to strike an assailant, but that option cannot be discounted. Unlike most styles of Karate, Shinseido does not emphasise deep stances or high kicks – any techniques we use are chosen because they work rather than because they look good.

All techniques can be split into the following categories:

• Bridging: Receiving an attack without harm, including blocking, redirecting and releasing grabs.
• Striking: Using various parts of the body to strike. Blows are aimed at the vulnerable parts of the assailant’s body for maximum effect.
• Joint-locking: Manipulating the assailant’s limbs in order to cause pain, control the assailant or, if necessary, damage the joints.
• Throws & takedowns: Knocking or throwing the assailant to the ground in order to control them or to allow you to escape.
• Chokes: Restricting the assailant’s ability to breathe in order to control them or cause unconsciousness.

To ensure safety in training and so that students build a strong skills base they are introduced gradually to the different categories of techniques. All training is carried out under the direct supervision of an experienced teacher.

Rather than using a random selection of techniques in Shinseido, we strive to only use those techniques which comply with certain principles. These are what we regard as the core Principles of Combat. Click here for further information on these principles.