VOLUME I - WADO RYU KARATE-DO - KIHON FUNDAMENTALS

Kihon Fundamentals – Volume 1
Presented by Roger Vickerman Renshi, 7th Dan

In this comprehensive first volume of the Kihon Fundamentals series, Roger Vickerman Renshi returns to the dojo to share over an hour of in-depth instruction on the core foundations of Wado-Ryū Karate. This session explores the physical, technical, and mental principles that underpin every aspect of training — from etiquette and posture to striking, stance work, and mindset.

The volume opens with the essential Dojo Kun — respect, cleanliness, and mindfulness when entering and training in the dojo — before progressing through key elements of Kihon: bowing (rei), taking yoi-dachi, making a correct fist, and understanding relaxation versus tension in technique. From there, Renshi introduces the structure and purpose of zuki (punching), explaining hikite, body connection, and the use of gravity and natural movement.

The second section delves into fundamental stances — Kiba-dachi, Seishan, Junzuki, Gyakuzuki, and Gyakuzuki Notsukomi — with emphasis on body alignment, hip rotation, and the principle of moving through the centre line. Viewers are guided through the mechanics of Tate Seishan for Keri Waza (kicking techniques), learning how correct stance and centre stability improve balance, precision, and power.

Renshi then turns to Uke Waza (receiving techniques), including Jodan Uke, Chudan Uke, Gaiwan Uke, Naiwan Uke, and Gedan Barai. Through careful technical breakdowns, he explains how true uke is not about “blocking” but about not being hit — using timing, body movement, and wrist control to redirect energy naturally. Each movement is explored in relation to Seishan Kata, highlighting how the kata provides the blueprint for all basic motion in Wado-Ryū.

The volume concludes with an exploration of the Three Minds — Shoshin (Beginner’s Mind), Mushin (Empty Mind), and Fudoshin (Immovable Mind) — emphasising that Wado-Ryū training is not only physical but also deeply mental. Through disciplined practice, the karateka learns to cultivate openness, clarity, and determination both inside and outside the dojo.

Combining technical precision, traditional insight, and over fifty years of martial experience, Kihon Fundamentals Volume 1 provides the foundation upon which all Wado-Ryū study is built.

Chapters Include:

Dojo Kun & Etiquette
Bowing (Reiho)
Yoi Dachi – Quiet Confidence
Making a Fist
Zuki – Fundamentals of Punching
Kihon Dachi & Uke Waza
Gyakuzuki & Gyakuzuki Notsukomi
Tate Seishan for Keri Waza
Jodan, Chudan, Naiwan, Gaiwan Uke & Gedan Barai
Shoshin, Mushin & Fudoshin – The Three Minds

A detailed study in traditional Wado-Ryū Kihon – for instructors, advanced practitioners, and students seeking to refine their foundation in movement, mindset, and martial understanding.

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