About R. Baker Expertise I can answer virtually any question pertaining to the practice or instruction of any martial art. I am also well versed in the "ins and outs" of martial arts organizations as I have served in executive positions in many. I can also answer questions related to demonstrations and seminars
Experience I hold high ranking Black Belts in several different martial arts including: 7th Dan American Kempo, 6th Dan saijutsu, 6th Dan Budoshin Karate, 2nd Dan Iaido, 1st Dan Kodokan Judo.
Organizations TBDK-Martial Arts Society International. Cobra Martial Arts Association International (UK). Shambhala Masters.
Publications Selected pieces used in Martial Arts Books published by Charles G.B. Evans in Canada,
Awards and Honors 27 Grandchampionship trophies for Kumite, 4 Black Belt Hall of Fame inductions, Internationally Certified Master Instructor, Internationally Certified Tournament Referee
Past/Present clients I have taught martial arts to all varieties of people: from a 5 year old child to a 90 year old man in a wheelchair.
For as long as I've been training, my sensei has always said that the thing I needed to work on the most has always been having a kime point. Said it's come a long way, but it's still not there yet and he thinks I could have more. He says that some people who are large in build can usually get away with not having a kime point just because of their size, but because I'm a small person, I have to be extra sharp. Kime has been the main focus of my training and I've been working it and working it. Lately, I've been working a lot on my strikes, particularly my punch. Now, my sensei mentioned that I'm locking my joints out and that I need to relax... he said that I'm going past the stopping point and kind of "pushing" the technique. I've been working on keeping my fist a little looser so as to stay relaxed and then tightening it at the last moment. I'm also trying to tighten my abdomen as that it the center and is another way of developing power. Now, about the joint part... for a punch, should I stop it just before I straighten my elbow? Would that be better then extending my arm fully? I'm trying to think what would work best.
Answer Olivia,
By the sounds of things you are in fact trying to "force" the technique. In order to correct this you must first understand the mechanics of a punch or any strike for that matter. It is not just the fist, not just the arm that enables you to strike. It is a total body commitment to exerting muscle and engergy to a specified area. A stable stance, hip rotation, speed, and "focus" is absolutly necessary to effect a good punch. This focus is simply "setting your mind" to the movements and becomming so comfortable with them that they [techniques] become second nature. Fully extending the arm or keeping it slightly bent is really a matter of body type for each person. Some people, because they either have large muscles or some deformity in their arm connot fully extend the arm, this however rarely effects punching power. Martial artists derive their power from the "snap" in our techniques. "For every action their is an opposite equal reation". I assume you practice pulling the opposite fist to the hip when punching? This is very important for power and speed as well. Both arms must move at the same speed and force in order to achieve that "focus".
What I believe your sensei to be saying is that you do not maintain proper body alignement and you allow your fist to pull you outside your center. During a punch your back must be straight and your stance firm. Again straightening the arm has very little to do with power or focus. Some masters practice a "short strike" where they extend their hand/arm only inches from their bodies. I would recommend practicing your strikes no less than 1,000 times a day with my words in mind. If your instructor still finds fault with your technique I would then recommend asking him to better clarify or demonstrate what you need to correct. Be patient with your instructor and your progress.
Hope I helped you, any further questions please do not hesitate to ask.
