Training Tips, Videos & Information

1. Stretch at home. 

Keeping supple will not only help with your movement but will help you avoid injuries like pulled muscles.

2. Practice at home.

Practicing what you have learned at home is a great way to advance quicker. Especially the kata (solo form) like Mara, as this is done with no partner. Above is a downloadable diagram with all the Mara moves a student learns. Do this in front of a mirror if possible, or in front of another family member and test yourself.

3. Alter the length of the uniform.

Many children who come to class have uniforms that are too long for them, especially noticeable in the leg length. Whereas we all know children will grow into their clothes, training with trousers that are too long means the bottoms are often under their feet. This makes it very slippery on the wooden floors of the halls and can cause them to slip up sometimes. A little piece of WonderWeb ironed on the bottom means safety for the children and it can be easily adjusted to be longer again as they grow.

4. Cut the belt length.

We will often do this for the children when they get new belts, but so can parents. The belts come very long and can easily be wrapped around a child's waist more than twice. For speed and ease, we recommend the belt is tied around the waist just once and then leave the two ends hanging no lower than their knees. As they grade and get new belts each term they will not outgrow any belt that is cut.

5. Write the students name in their mitts. 

Mitts are sometimes on and off during a class and if so are often left at the side of the room. As they are either black or white, they can all look the same. An initial inside each mitt means they have less chance of being lost. And if they're left behind at school, can be found easier in lost property.

6. Learn the words.

Above there is a downloadable list of common words we use in Shizenryu. The teacher will use these Japanese terms during the class and tests students to see if they remember them. 

If you would like to join one of our clubs, please email shizenryu@sledwards.com