Shotokan meets Wado

Last Sunday, June 24, 2024, I participated in a karate seminar alongside Ronald van der Haak, led by Sensei Jaap Smaal (8th Dan) and Sensei Gertjan Martens (7th Dan). It was a remarkable encounter between karateka from the Shotokan and Wado styles, where both sensei showcased their extensive experience in karate. This time, the kata Jitte (or Jutte) was the focus. This kata shares the same origin and name in both the Shotokan and Wado styles, which translates to "Ten Hands" or "Ten Techniques." It is said that one needs the strength of ten hands to perform this kata properly. Additionally, the name refers to an old weapon, the Jitte, used by the Japanese police about 200 years ago.

It was remarkable to see that the execution of the kata in both the Shotokan and Wado styles is almost identical, although there are both significant and subtle differences. Sensei Gertjan demonstrated the influence of Jiujitsu in this kata, with various seemingly simple locks hidden within Jitte. I trained with an experienced Wado karateka and had to put in my utmost effort to execute the holds correctly. Sensei Jaap demonstrated that the Shotokan version of this kata offers many possibilities for powerful, long techniques and that there is ample room for kicking techniques.

There were approximately 40 karateka present, who participated in this fascinating seminar with great enthusiasm, eagerness to learn, and spirit.

I want to thank Sensei Ahlam El Yaakoubi from Karateschool Yume Ken (Utrecht) for organizing these training sessions.

Photos and Report: André Brockbernd

#karate #wado #shotokan #jaapsmaal #gertjanmartens #andrebrockbernd #fotografie

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