A DIGITAL DOJO FOR OLDER
KARATEKA
"Based on Traditional Japanese
Shotokan Karate Kenkojuku Style"
I'm Sensei Levine
and you will not learn how to fight or compete in
tournaments from my digital Dojo. However, you will learn how to
keep yourself in shape as you age, while practicing
self-defense moves and traditional Shotokan Kata. I was
never a strong fighter and that is why I focused my
training on the mechanics of Kata. I'm not a Master or
Shihan, just a basic Sensei teaching basic movement.
I've trained over 12 years with a true Master and left
my old Dojo due to physical limitations and to continue
my philosophy of sharing in the digital age. Now that I
am over 55 with chronic back, neck and knee limitations,
I no longer teach or am a member of a Dojo. I've become my own teacher and have
created a modified karate class for myself to keep
training as I get older. I understand as my body ages
I'll have more mental and physical limitations, but want
to keep myself as strong and flexible as possible as I
age. Remembering Kata movements will also help
exercise my
mind. I've slowed down my movements and
removed most Kata jumps and kiai, but I still train with
a passion. I would like to share what I have learned
with others, and have others share with me digitally.
Sharing is my philosophy, as I feel this is the way to
increase your knowledge and abilities in everything. I like to think
this is how Martial Arts moved from India to China to
Okinawa to Japan, sharing and mixing with others along
the way. Sharing with others without expecting
something in return will make you feel good. I hope
my modified training
can help others continue their training as we age.
The goal of my digital Dojo
is to help older Karateka like myself, who have stopped
Dojo training, keep training in a modified way.
I focus on keeping our Kata fresh while staying flexible
and in shape
with low-impact cardio-Kata, stretching and self-defense
drills (no equipment
needed). If you're young and new to Martial Arts,
I encourage you to visit your local traditional Martial
Arts school and try a class...you might find your
passion like I did. Any digital video training is
no substitute for training at an actual Dojo or Martial
Arts school. Studying and training in the Martial Arts is like
learning how to paint on canvas. Few of us become
Rembrandt, but we can still enjoy painting. If you
train 3-4 times a week for 30-45 minutes, your body and
mind will get a great workout. Like anything worth
while, you need commitment and focus and you will learn
and grow.
Don't stop
training, and may you enjoy a peaceful and honorable
path sharing with others along the way.
*always consult your doctor
or physical therapist before starting any new form of
exercise*
|
