Thursday Terauchi Course:

Sensei Terauchi (IOGKF Japan Chief Instructor, 8th Dan) instructed a special course at the European Gasshuku yesterday at 3pm. This was a kyu grade course with about 45 students taking part.

The class started with junbi undo, Tokyo style, then moved onto kicking exercises from kosa dachi (low squatting position). All possible kicks were performed including mae geri, mawashi geri, yoko geri and ushiro geri - they would normally be performed while standing yet Terauchi Sensei is quite able to kick even from a crouch!

Next Sensei had everybody practice Ippon Kumite (one punch attacks) with attacks and blocks. Then everyone found a partner to practice ude tanren (arm conditioning exercises). Students practiced arm conditioning for about 5 to 10 minutes although it felt like longer!

Still paired up, with a partner of the same size, the class moved onto pre-arranged drills with attacks including both kicks and punches in combinations. It started with slow practice runs and then moved on to full speed attacks trying to hit your partner.

Today everyone who took part in the class is covered in bruises all over their arms - sparring badges of honour!