Kenshokan Martial Arts Academy

Hale Middle School Event Tomorrow Tuesday 2-8

2011-02-07T18:33:00.000-08:00

When Where What to Bring

We will be giving four 45 min presentations.
8:20
9:15
10:25
11:20

Where Hale Middle School,
23830 Califa St, Woodland Hills, CA 91367

We will meet on site at 8AM

DIRECTIONS FROM KSK MARTIAL ARTS TO HALE MIDDLE SCHOOL CLICK OR CUT AND PASTE http://tinyurl.com/4nrv7ft

Attached is aerial map, you will see our presentation area at the North-west end of the campus by Califa and Platt. we can park in the school parking area on Califa. Just tell them you are a part of the martial arts demo.
Also attached is an outline of the presentation. The materiel is pretty simple, our job will be to be positive and encourage good effort.

KSK Students please wear you white gi pants and a black dojo shirt. Have you gi top and belt handy for demonstrations. We will be training outside so wear your shoes.
After the last demo we are invited to participate in the rally and and eat from the gourmet food trucks.

Contact me with any questions.

GP

Here is the Curriculum for the day. Your job will be to encourage and gently correct.

Violence Avoidance Training / Anti Bully Workshop
Class Goal: Teach avoidance of violence via martial arts. // deputize martial artists in the crowd.
Martial Arts Ancient Secrets of All Cultures: Handed only to the most trusted persons in a society.
We start with respect. Bow // we train in silence and listen carefully.
Martial Artists have a code we work very hard never to break that code.
What is a bully? Did you have an older brother or sister? You were bullied. Were you an older brother or sister chances are you did some bullying.
Bully vs. Bodyguard discussion.
Stance: Ready Stance vs Fighting Stance;
Have students mimic a fight stance, fists and war face. Explain that is exactly what the movies show.
Explain the Fist is a commitment/ agreement to fight and difficult to back down from.
Demonstrate a ready stance; show the power of STOP, by showing one hand.
Have students try ready stance. Demonstrate kiai, stop.
Striking arts, palm with kiai, single strike, one/two strike. Knee, single, double
Elbow block – High reach up and cup back of head.
Low elbow - squeeze you arm elbow down into your body
Wrist Escapes Two hand on two wrists. // Two on one.
Front Neck Choke narrow grab- wide grab -
Rear Neck Choke (just like momiji hazushi but from the rear)
We will also demo more exciting variations of the arts, we will add and subtract arts as needed.

Transported After School Martial Arts Program

2011-01-17T21:37:00.000-08:00

Parents, do you need a supervised after school activity? Would you like to have you family evenings back without the homework hassles? Could you use an extra three or four hours a day? Then you should look into the KSK After School Homework Club. Kids are picked up from local schools (or dropped off by you.) Homework is completed with supervision, students enjoy a vigorous martial arts lesson and you have your family evenings back ! There are only a few slots available so contact us right away. If you know of someone who could benefit from our program please pass on this info.

Esoteric Teachings of Professor Henry S. Okazaki

2010-12-02T12:38:00.000-08:00

Like a drawing in India ink of the whispering of wind in the pines, the secrets of Judo can only be suggested. Only through personal experience can one comprehend the mystic ecstasy of such secrets.

*Homework*
Adults
Youth JJ

What does this mean to YOU ?
Think and write a small paragraph. We will discuss in class.

December Holiday Schedule

2010-12-01T21:43:00.000-08:00

Attached is the December Holiday Schedule.
Highlights Dojo Closed Friday, Saturday, Sunday December 3rd, 4th,5th. For Camp South.
Dojo Closed Christmas Eve December 24th and December 25th.
Dojo Closed December 31st and Jan 1st.

Have a safe and happy holiday season.

Sensei

2010-11-22T17:47:00.000-08:00

Jujitsu America Sport Jujitsu

www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7XqMkDEgSk&feature=related

http://www.jujitsuamerica.org/

I would like to hear from students interested in participating.

~Sensei~

Kenshokan, Nine Years and Counting.

2010-11-09T14:21:00.001-08:00

In 2001 a small handful of boys from my Synagogue had discovered I was a black belt. they were eager to learn and so a dream that was quietly living in the back of my head came to life. Kenshokan Martial Arts was born.

Yesterday we celebrated that birth in grand style. It was wonderful to see students of different ages and backgrounds together on the mat demonstrating the techniques of Danzan Ryu. I was very proud to introduce my very first Shodan Zachary Kauffman. He has been a member of the dojo for over 5 years and from the beginning had show a zeal for training and a determination for personal excellence. We also were privileged to elevate four new brown belts; Alejandro Stawsky, Annette Stawsky, Brian Schrock and William Werner. To blue belt we promoted Amar Patel and Alexys Odama, To Orange belt was Edward Chamourian, Damien Garcia, Ryan Gilpin, and Sannon Ismail-Zade. Eric Volk was elevated to his yellow belt. All of these students have been great additions to our dojo family and are outstanding martial artists.

We then adjourned to BJ's Pizza for our banquet and awards ceremony. For their outstanding contributions we awarded student of the year Brian Schrock and Amar Patel. Damien and Miriam Garcia were recognized for top attendance for 2010 and Tristan Schwartz was recognized as competitor of the year. This years sempai award (Given by the instructors to students who through their actions in the dojo stand out from the rest.) went to Sannan Ismail-Zade.

As 2010 winds to a close I am thankful for the many dedicated and talented students who make KSK Martial Arts a wonderful place to train and grow.

I'll see you on the mat.

Gregory Poretz
Sensei, Kenshokan Martial Arts Academy
Woodland Hills, Ca.

MY JOB

2010-10-09T12:34:00.000-07:00

My job is not to put fighters into the ring or even make Olympic champions. My job is to allow those who want to to stand up a little straighter, to draw the line against oppression and indignity, to stand and survive any trespass,and finally to look in the mirror and love the the person they see looking back at them.
This I do with joy in my heart.

Gregory Poretz

Anatomy of a Sucker Punch

2010-10-04T15:38:00.000-07:00

Sucker Punch

This is a good example of poor situational awareness. If the victim had made eye contact or acknowledged the thug in some way he may have appeared to be a "harder" target, or at least a more troublesome target. watch the thug look over his left shoulder and sway back just before the attack.

Preempitive Strike
It looks like the guy in green wants a fight, watch how black jacket sets up distance, closes and strikes. Watch how black jacket softly controls arms at close range. he has already set up a defensive stance while keeping a non aggressive posture. Watch closely for left arm control while right fist launches.

Payback
Good defensive example. Note the street fighter "kata". Black shirt should have his hands up sooner. He waits until thug grabs his neck. Watch for the braichal stun, it doesn't work to great effect because the thug has not committed himself to the attack. Finally he sets up a low fence and finishes with a hard straight left.
PS this is not the US, or the self defense would have started much sooner.

Judo Then and Now

2010-09-15T22:32:00.000-07:00

Kimura Documentary.

Judo Kyuzo Mifune Randori

The Modern Mess That is Judo

Koga. 'Nuf Said
Watch how he acts after the match. Very controlled.

Koga Training

So who wants to Randori ?

Sensei

Great Story on Professor Ball and the AJJF

2009-11-15T22:20:00.000-08:00

What will you be doing at 70 years of age ?

http://www.siskiyoudaily.com/lifestyle/x1158539871/Ball-still-having-a-ball

A great read.

Good Question !

2009-08-20T10:14:00.000-07:00

The question was posed last night before class, "Did the Samurai have and type of stretching or workout regimen ?" It was an unusual but very interesting question. I had no answer, but fortunately I have a fantastic resource, Sensei Mike Belzer a martial artist of excellent skill and reputation who was the student of Don Draeger (look him up) Draeger Sensei made a life long study of fighting systems, weapons and warriors both ancient and modern. So when I presented my question Professor Draeger had already answered it. Ancient warriors and Kroyu (Old School arts) do not have formalized warm ups. If warm ups and stretching were required they would be ineffective for combat or self defense. It was that simple, the training was the the training. You want to master the sword go out and swing a sword around. Today you can lift weights to improve your physical strength, or have a session of mat pilates to loosen your body, and that would be ok. We are not training to hold the line at Thermopylae we are training to lean the Danzan Ryu system of Jujitsu can one use this art for self defense without a warm up ? From personal experience I know the answer to be yes. That said if I am planning an evening of nage and grappling with my 20-something students you bet I am going to have a through warm up !

Further Study

http://www.danzan.com/HTML/PEOPLE/mbelzer.html

http://dogbrothers.com/phpBB2/index.php?PHPSESSID=18a585506d19ef3f79fb045c5bfb5c0f&topic=1084.0

Good Question !

~Sensei~

Junanshin 柔軟心

2009-08-11T09:33:00.000-07:00

Junanshin as a training precept.

Keep a flexible, open mind. This requires patience, the ability to set aside your opinions, previous experiences and biases, and a passion to learn. Develop a mental state of allowing - an attitude of no resistance.

I wrote this article last year as a project for Jodo, the concepts work for a sincere student of any worthy endeavor martial or otherwise.

Defining Junanshin A.A.G. Schiebroek uses the term, “a malleable mind” looking deeper into “malleable” we find Webster’s English Dictionary defining Malleable : capable of being extended or shaped by beating with a hammer or by the pressure of rollers 2 a: capable of being altered or controlled by outside forces or influences b: having a capacity for adaptive change). For me this definition of malleable is the most to the point. Imagine the process of forging a Japanese sword, the metal heated, beaten and cooled repeatedly until the finished product is produced. Ultimately Junanshin is a state of receptivity, wherein one makes the choice to trust source of instruction and accept the lesson. Blocking out (or at least attempting to block out) everything in the mind that is not the lesson.

Application to my study of Shindo Muso Ryu.

Without Junanshin the study of SMR would be impossible or at the very least pointless. My first encounter with the ryu was actually pretty much as expected. A Spartan and serious training regimen with very little room or need for the students “input”. I was prepared to practice basic arts in a traditional setting as a total beginner. I understand the need from a safety perspective as we were working with dangerous weapons. Junanshin covers this issue by demanding the student open his mind while simultaneously shutting out outside stimulus except for the tachi in front of him and the sensei at his side. With progression in the ryu immediately after Nuymon the precept of Junanshin (and a bit of fudoshin) must be immediately and vigorously applied. In my mind I desire to be as far away from the tachi as possible. Yet sensei says go forward and scoop upward. Honestly I (my mind) has no desire to do this, but Sensei says go forward and scoop the jo upward and that’s what I must do. Occasionally I will even avoid being (symbolically) disemboweled.
Junanshin silences the mind when I start to think I know anything about the jo, and allows me to remain patient, trust my teachers, work on my humility, and maintain a supple and open mind.

Compatibility with a modern lifestyle.
In the modern world I have noticed a vast dearth of junanshin. In fact the standard is quite the opposite. Sadly this pervades the modern martial arts world. Imagine this scenario, several junior and senior yudansha at a seminar devoted to quelling differences within different organizations of the ryu. A senior instructor gives a long speech about keeping an open mind and demonstrates an art. The first words uttered, before uke even had gotten up from the mat were, “That’s not the way I learned it.” Behold the absolute counter to junanshin. Is junanshin incompatible with a modern lifestyle? I think not, but is a modern lifestyle compatible with junanshin? Soldiers in training are in a constant state of junanshin, but only after several weeks of breaking down the ego. Budoka in koryu systems are taught junanshin from the first lesion. Alternatively school children are taught to express themselves and question authority. Junanshin is more than a training mindset it’s a choice one makes. Junanshin is a magnifying glass we hold over the roadmap we are using. It allows us to follow directions when we are not sure of the path. Using Junanshin we can choose to trust the mapmaker.

As an Instructor the role is both reversed and enhanced. I need to encourage my students to do the kata as instructed and to trust the training, to be patient and accept that their abilities will increase in time. At the same time I need to transmit the kata as I was instructed and trust my training.
Guiding students to quiet the mind and practice with a good spirit also requires a little junanshin. I have to try and accept that each student is coming from a different place and may face different challenges learning the art. I endeavor to trust in my abilities and transmit what was taught to me as clearly as possible.

Source Cited (1)
“http://web.inter.nl.net/users/A.A.G.Schiebroek/budo.html#junashin”

“http://www.rembuden.com/OCT%2007.pdf”

Dojo Kun, A Study.

2009-08-11T09:30:00.000-07:00

"The Oath was always chanted with strength, never mumbled in insincerity. Just as movements would become automatic and reflexes conditioned, the simple truths of the oath would also penetrate the mind of the participant."

DOJO KUN

1. Jinkaku kansei ni tsutomeru koto.
Work to perfect your character.

2. Makoto no michi o mamoru koto.
Have fidelity in seeking a true way.

3. Doryoku no seishin o yashinau koto.
Cultivate a spirit of endeavor and perseverance.

4. Reigi o omonjiru koto.
Always act with good manners.

5. Kekki no yu o imashimeru koto.
Refrain from violent and uncontrolled behavior.

Follow the link for the full article.

http://www.dragon-tsunami.org/Dtimes/Pages/articleb1.htm

Are You Seeking Rank or Knowledge?

2009-07-30T12:18:00.000-07:00

By Prof. Ron Jennings
Prof Jennings is a 7 dan who is active across the Danzan Ryu spectrum. I hope you enjoy this article as much as I did ~Sensei~
After some recent serious health issues, I began reflecting on my many years as a martial artist and my early
years in DanzanRyu. I thought some of those memories were worth sharing with our members.
It was in the spring of 1962 when I went to a DanzanRyu dojo to sign up for lessons. I had just bought my own
car and could now drive to an adjoining city where the dojo was located. The first class I watched included a
promotional ceremony which included two really old guys who were getting their first promotion. One was in midfifties
and one was mid-sixties. To a teenager, they were beyond old; they were ancient. I was so impressed by these
“old guys” getting their first rank I resolved to join and catch up with them. It was a challenge I never met.
Classes at the dojo were very structured and focused on learning a few techniques very well before being
introduced to others. You weren’t shown much above your rank level until Sensei felt you were ready. As a green belt
I remember going with my Sensei and others on a visit to a town about 30 miles away where someone had a workout
room in his house. When asked what he would like to cover, he said “Oku”. Sensei said “No” because they had a
green belt with them (me). At our dojo you didn’t get to work Oku until you were brown belt. I was so disappointed. As
it turned out, Sensei finally relented and we actually got to work the first three techniques. It was six months after I
got to third brown before I saw Oku again. As it turned out there were not enough people at my rank and a Police
Class the dojo was presenting to city police interfered with continuing the colored belt only classes. There were a
couple of new green belts and Sensei said I needed to help them get to brown so we could practice together. What
I thought as a real delay in my training turned out for the best as my Shime became pretty good as well as my Nage
really improved. It seemed however that I was not learning as much as I wanted and I had yet to catch up with those
old guys. I was getting anxious about moving up. But, there was a lesson I still needed to learn about rank consciousness.
One night there was a visitor to the dojo who was very interested and as a new brown belt I felt I had a lot to say.
He attended a couple of classes then disappeared. Shortly after receiving my second brown this young man showed
up again, this time wearing a Black Belt. I was stunned. How could he possibly have made it to Black Belt in that
short of a time period? I had gone from Sankyu to Nikyu in the same time period it took him to go from white belt to
Shodan. He then told me about another dojo in a nearby city. That was enough for me. I am not sure what I told
Sensei but I quit my lessons at his dojo and went to that other dojo. It wasn’t long however before I realized the depth
of knowledge, or should I say lack of it at this dojo. They had some outstanding instructors but I didn’t get to work with
them and instead got to work closely with one of their Nidans. In a few weeks’ time it was obvious I knew more about
training, technique, and execution than one of their second degree Black Belts. Sure he knew a few more moves but
that was it. I felt he only mimicked the arts without understanding the real intent. I knew I had made a big mistake.
I returned to my original dojo with a sincere apology. Sensei accepted me back and told me that my desire for
rank had been one of the things that had been keeping me back.
I finally realized what I had been told many times. Your belt holds your gi
together. It is the knowledge gained from hard work and dedication to learning that
is important, not the color of the belt. It was a lesson I never forgot.
By the time I got to Shodan those two old men made Sandan, but rank was no longer an issue.
In 1968 I left the dojo and moved to another city and opened my own dojo. I have been a school head and
continually active in DanzanRyu ever since. As a school head and still seeking that knowledge, I expanded my cross
training efforts. By keeping an open mind as well as open eyes, I found there was more to DanzanRyu than one
single organization. I now belong to several national DanzanRyu organizations. I’ve trained with a great number of
exceptional instructors and based on my lesson from Sensei, never asked for rank or recognition. However, over the
years I have received both rank and recognition from hard work and dedication to the art.
When I first received recognition as a Professor of DanzanRyu, Professor Imi Okazaki Mullins, youngest daughter
of Professor Henry Okazaki, bowed to me as she handed me a red and white belt and said, “My father would be
proud.” I would have not been so honored without the foundation training and early lessons I received from my
Sensei.

Take a Bow. New Yellow Belts !

2009-07-21T23:16:00.000-07:00

Congratulations go out to the following students. Alex L, Amar P, Alexis O. Al of you have worked hard from day one, I am proud to see your progress. Way to go guys !

Parents Night Out A Sucess !

2009-06-29T09:03:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday we held our quarterly "Ninja Night" sleepover. While the dojo parents were out painting the town red or just catching up on some sleep in their very quiet house, we were having some great times at the dojo. We had a great time learning some sword basics and then a fantastic time sparring with the padded swords. We enjoyed some pizza and watched "The Princess Bride" a movie known for some amazing fencing scenes. James K. gave an impromptu Japanese lesson and a few of the kids got to take home their names in Japanese Katakana. In the morning we cleaned up and experimented to see who was more ticklish Rosa or Zack, this is good info to know in case you are doing a little grappling (it's Rosa).

Our next event is the kata contest in August we are preparing now.

2009-06-18T12:01:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of good examples of kata and a good primer on dojo bowing. You will find that there are many varations of dojo etikette within the ryu, every dojo will have its own customs and traditions.

Today & Yesterday

2009-06-16T23:49:00.000-07:00

I am told that Okazaki Sensei often held Sumo competitions at his dojo, and even sponsored larger events. I have often wondered of all the various forms of martial arts competition available, why train in Sumo ? I think after the last few days of practicing Sumo I may have an idea. If you have ever watched a Sumo shai (tournament) you would be blown away by the speed and intensity of the matches. Sumotori (practitioners of Sumo) spend several minutes trying to mentally upset their opponent before getting into the ring. Contestants square off and, bang its over. Sumo in one of the oldest known combat sports and is highly ritualistic but it seem so real when you get down to it. Hajime, bang, its over. Very much like a real fight. The opponent tried to get into your head to put you off balance and then attacks. Real fights are very immediate, and over very quick. No 45 minute chess match like our BJJ cousins, not even the several moments spent jockeying for position like Judo, its just bang and its over, 20 seconds is a long match.
Juxtapose that with a violent assault, and you have an amazing set of similarities.
After an evening of Sumo training, the class did some simple self defense material, I noticed it was easier to stay focused on the incoming punch after a few rounds in the Sumo ring. Lets keep out eyes out for the next big craze in martial arts, Sumo Self Defense !
I have attached some photos of tonight's Sumo matches for you enjoyment.

Good Luck

2009-06-08T08:11:00.000-07:00

Gambatte (GAHM-baht-teh)

From the Japanese, meaning "good luck", "do your best", "keep at it", or anything equivalent. Usually said in order to provide encouragement or motivation to someone.

ex. - It looks like you've got a tough final today! Gambatte!

The Japanese language can be extremely convenient. There is no small talk, in most cases you don’t need to state the subject or object or sentences, and there are single words and expressions that can express a way of thinking or ideology that have no equivalent in English. If there is one word that is used and repeated more than any other in Japanese it is “Gambarimasu”. A quick look at a dictionary would tell you the word translates to “good luck” or “do your best”. However, as you will soon discover with many Japanese words, this one has a more complex meaning and importance in Japanese social culture. “Gambaru” or gambaru-ism is the primary philosophy of the Japanese.

The Deeper Meaning

I first remember hearing the word when working at a restaurant. I was making salads and slicing raw fish at a counter bar. A male customer was quite surprised to see me working there. We had a conversation about why and what I was doing in Japan. At the end of our conversation when he was getting ready to leave he said “Gambatte kudasai”. I wasn’t sure what he meant and my co-workers were unable to explain to me the meaning of the expression. Later, I found out the expression meant “Please, do your best”. I found this a little odd - a customer telling a me, either as a foreigner or staff member to do my best. Then I began hearing the word more and more. The term is used as encouragement, as a promise, as a dedication or a battle cry. When baseball players golfers, singers, sumo wrestlers, newly elected politicians and others are interviewed they invariably promise to gambaru. It is used and said almost in every situation imaginable. Well-wishers seeing friends and co-workers off abroad yell out “Gambatte”. Newly hired employees pledge that they will do their absolute best for their company by gambaru-ing. Control Freak parents expect nothing less than their children to gambaru in the their school work.

You hear it so often that you begin to understand that it is an important cultural expression, rather than someone expressing their intentions to be all they can be. Also, I have noticed parents often say it to their children as an expression of love ( my interpretation) , rather than an expectation of high performance. I saw parents say to their kids “Gambatte ne” on countless of occasions when they dropped them off to kindergarten. It had me confused for while, because it was kindergarten, children no older then 3 or 4 years old. I thought it was strange to be saying “Do your best” to children at such a tender age. The I realized it was just a parting greeting, much like when we say “Have fun” to our own children.

It takes years to understand the Japanese language. Some words are so culturally ceremented that you need to experience several years of living in Japan to finally get them. It can be a very interesting learning process, but it is frustrating. So “Gambatte” and do your best.

JAPANESE ETIQUETTE PART 2

2009-06-05T00:43:00.000-07:00

Greetings
Greetings are considered to be of extreme importance in Japanese culture. Students in elementary and secondary schools are often admonished to deliver greetings with energy and vigor. A lazy greeting is regarded with the type of disdain that would accompany a limp handshake in parts of the West.Simply walking off without saying anything is frowned upon. When parting, instead of simply saying goodbye, it is common to make a wish to meet again.
The most common greetings are ohayō gozaimasu (おはようございます?) or "good morning", used until about 11am but may be used at any time of day if it is the first occasion that day the two people have met; konnichiwa (こんにちは?) which is roughly equivalent to "good day" or "good afternoon" and is used until late afternoon; konbanwa (今晩は?) or "good evening"; and oyasuminasai (お休みなさい?) or "good night". Different forms of these greetings may be used depending on the relative social statuses of the speaker and the listener; see respectful language below.

Various Sources

Thursday Evening Training Log

2009-06-05T00:13:00.000-07:00

I had been planning on putting the group through some self defense drills. Yesterday we were using soft Yawara, using only minimal force to escape holds. The drill forces you to keep frame and apply your art with nearly perfect technique. This sets the stage for self defense training. Usually when students ramp up the power the control suffers. If you have been primed by some softer training that alowes you to think as you move one is less likely to "panic" when the pressure is on. Tonight the pressure was ON ! Starting with some very tight Close-the-distance-drills we moved to take downs and follow up to the ground. We took the training wheels off and students were responding almost simultaneously to the their partners attack. Followed by some pull-troughs students worked on taking the back of an attacker while standing.
We experimented with a few pokes and gouges to apply the principle of Kazushi.
Then allowing for more distance we discussed low line kicks and knees to the legs and body as it applies to self defense.
Finally we brought out the pads and threw some hard knee strikes. There was not a dry gi in the house. Well do to all who attended. If you missed it you missed allot.

Gregory Poretz
Sensei, Kenshokan Martial Arts Academy
Danzan Ryu Jujitsu
Woodland Hills Ca.

JAPANESE ETIQUETTE

2009-05-27T15:32:00.000-07:00

The following will be a three part series on Japanese social etiquette. Gathered from various sources we will examine bowing, eating, and greeting people. Enjoy. Further investigation may be made with the Ogasawara Ryu, www.ogasawara-ryu.com/en/indexe.html.

BOWING

Bowing ((o)jigi (お辞儀, おじぎ), (o-)rei (お礼)), is probably the feature of Japanese etiquette that is best-known outside Japan . Bowing is considered extremely important in Japan , so much so that, although children normally begin learning how to bow from a very young age, companies commonly provide training to their employees in how to execute bows correctly.
Basic bows are performed with the back straight and the hands at the sides (boys and men) or clasped in the lap (girls and women), and with the eyes down. Bows originate at the waist. Generally, the longer and deeper the bow, the stronger the emotion and the respect expressed.
Bows can be generally divided into three main types: informal, formal, and very formal. Informal bows are made at about a fifteen degree angle and more formal bows at about thirty degrees. Very formal bows are deeper.
The etiquette surrounding bowing, including the length and depth of bow, and the appropriate response, is exceedingly complex. For example, if the other person maintains his or her bow for longer than expected (generally about two or three seconds), it is polite to bow again, upon which one may receive another bow in return. This often leads to a long exchange of progressively lighter bows.
Generally speaking, an inferior bows longer, more deeply and more frequently than a superior. A superior addressing an inferior will generally only nod the head slightly, while some superiors may not bow at all and an inferior will bend forward slightly from the waist.
Bows of apology tend to be deeper and last longer than other types of bow. They tend to occur with frequency during the apology, generally at about 45 degrees with the head lowered and lasting for at least the count of three, sometimes longer. The depth, frequency and duration of the bow increases with the sincerity of the apology and the severity of the offence. Bows of thanks follow the same pattern. In extreme cases a kneeling bow is performed; this bow is sometimes so deep that the forehead touches the floor. This is called saikeirei (最敬礼), literally "most respectful bow."
When dealing with non-Japanese people, many Japanese will shake hands. Since many non-Japanese are familiar with the custom of bowing, this often leads to a combined bow and handshake which can be quite complicated to execute. Bows may be combined with handshakes or performed before or after shaking hands. Generally when bowing in close proximity, as necessitated when combining bowing and shaking hands, people turn slightly to one side (usually the left) to avoid bumping heads.

Thanks for reading.

~Sensei~

Wednesday Afternoon Nage

2009-05-21T03:40:00.000-07:00

Annette and Ummer taking Nage no Kata by storm, and loving it. It was a tremendous joy to train two highly motivated students. The future of the Ryu looks pretty bright from where I am sitting.

Kenshokan Martial Arts Academy
Danzan Ryu Jujitsu
Shorin Ryu Karate
Self Defence

Sunday Training Log Entry

2009-05-18T00:48:00.001-07:00

Nice turnout for Sunday's adult class. We shaved a little off conditioning so we could work on technique. I was really happy with the way everyone picked up on the combative applications from Kakato Otoshi, and I think there was much fun to be had giving our uki's some needed falling practice. Followed up with a small bit o'grappling and finishing with some rousing self-defense strikes. All in all a great workout. See you on Monday.

Gregory Poretz
Sensei, Kenshokan Martial Arts Academy
Danzan Ryu Jujitsu
Shorin Ryu Karate

Dojo Vocabulary

2009-04-29T00:06:00.000-07:00

Onegai shimasu

What's that we say at the beginning of class ?

O neh guy - She mas.

Here is a little more information on the subject.

Simple
ONEGAI - A favour
SHIMASU (SURU) - To do.

Deep
Like all Japanese words or expressions it is very difficult to directly translate as many meanings and interpretations can be given. "negai" comes from the verb "negau" which means "to pray to" or "to wish for." The "O" at the beginning is "honorific " and makes the phrase more respectful. "Shimasu" is the present tense of the verb "suru" which means, "to do", so in other words what we are about to do. This phrase is always said with the honorific O hence the phrase Onegai shimasu.
Onegai shimasu can be used in many different situations, but generally means that you wish for a good outcome from what is about to happen, it can also be a way of saying please or requesting something of showing friendliness or consideration, wishing someone well. However within the context of MA practice, it has come to mean. Will you practice with me; I am willing to accept your guidance, it is more widely used in traditional martial arts circles rather than in those of sportive arts.

Context
The general rule is that you say it to someone when you want them to do something for you, teach you, do you a favor etc.
It is a polite way of asking for a favor, it can also be used by seniors when speaking to lower people when wanting them to do something sometimes in a disciplinary tone.
Or you may say it when you know the other person doesn't necessarily want to do what you want them to do.

From Various Sources.

Back in Business ! End of a Saga

2009-04-28T16:42:00.000-07:00

The paint is dry and the floor is down. We are holding classes back in our home. I want to thank everyone for the help and offers of help. You patience and flexibility made what should have been an impossible week into a great experience.
Next on the menu the our 1st dojo potluck picnic. May 31st.
Here is a link to some photos of the saga.
http://picasaweb.google.com/KENSHOKAN/DOJOSAGA#

Dojo Saga Update

2009-04-28T10:52:00.000-07:00

Got into the dojo early this AM and the building contractor quickly went to work. He opened the wall near the front of the studio and quickly discovered the inside of the wall was wet and will require the entire wall be opened, dried over a couple of days and then repaired. There is a glimmer of hope however, the landlord has given tentative approval for use of one of the offices in the building. It is upstairs and in the rear. It will take a few hours to get the space ready and we will need to haul the mats upstairs, but I am hopeful that this space will be an acceptable substitute. Getting the space ready will require some serious labor, but I am certain we will be up to the task.
As for training today I am not certain. I will be in contact via email and phone. Again, fingers very thoroughly crossed !

Gregory Poretz

Dojo Repairs Day II

2009-04-28T01:05:00.000-07:00

So it was hoped that repairs would start today, but it seems the landlords contractor had a funeral to attend. I am promised that work will start Tuesday AM bright and early. My fingers remain crossed.
I am working with a nearby location to allow us training space for the duration of our repairs. Again fingers thoroughly crossed.
Let me tell you, seeing the dojo in such disarray, empty and gutted, devoid of the life that you bring is a dreadful feeling. That's what I was doing this afternoon feeling dread working from my desk at the dojo, when I noticed a reflection on the wall from our window lettering. It was faint in the late afternoon light, but readable. Seeing Kenshokan on the wall filled me with a renewed determination. I will use this time to finish all those beautification projects I have had in mind, get a good paint job on the wall and finish the boards.

I was able to take some mats and train at Warner park this evening, it was a little cold, but like the expression says, "Jikishin kore dôjô" which is explained as, "If you have a pure, honest and flexible mind, everywhere is a Dôjô"

I will keep everyone appraised of our progress.

Gregory Poretz

Water Damage Update.

2009-04-25T21:18:00.000-07:00

Dojo Family,

Water Damage Update.

As you know we had some water damage that occurred last week sometime. We pulled up the floor to clean the carpets and upon inspection we discovered that the wall (the one we repaired last year) was also water damaged. We were able to get the carpets steamed cleaned and we will be opening the rear wall to inspect for more damage and to avoid mold problems. The soonest this can be done is Monday. We will then paint and reinstall the floor and mats.
I am hopeful this can be accomplished within a few days.

Thank you for all of your the offers of help and support. I will keep everyone informed of our progress.

Gregory Poretz
Sensei, Kenshokan Martial Arts

Convention Prep.

2009-04-15T15:36:00.000-07:00

Expect to workout all day Saturday and Sunday.
Start minding your nutrition now, good carbs and protiens, lots of veggies and increase your water intake.
Get extra sleep.
Lets avoid excessive "celebration" Friday and Saturday so we can stay fresh and show the Kenshokan at its best.

What to bring. Sleepwhere. Training gear for 2.5 days. Advil or pain reliever.
One cool set of clothes for banquet.
Some sandals or slip on shoes for entering and exiting training areas.
Bring note pad and pens.
Bring an additional tote bag for keeping your gi jacket, camera, wallett etc during training. Take lots of photos, you may video classes only with permission from the instructor.
Turn off cell phones in training areas.

(we are staying across the street from the convention, so our room rate is a lot less. Only 55 per person !)

DOJO MATT LOADING FRIDAY AM.

Click

2009-03-20T00:25:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you hear it, sometimes not. But every time you do the effort was worth it.
Train with sincerity, pull your heart and mind together add a little sweat and you will have skill. Layer your skill with enough experience and you'll hear it. CLICK. Its a great sound. The click is the mental latch on a new art or concept in our training. Think your Akushu Kote Maki is ok ? Why does Sensei keep telling me to put my foot just so. Over and over again until, click ! Followed usually by, Ohhhh ! When you hear that click go and practice some more until it is cemented into muscle memory. Now go help someone find their click.

-Sensei

Referral Contest

2009-02-11T11:51:00.001-08:00

The referral contests ends at the edd of May, we will make an awards presentation at the upcoming dojo picnic.

~Sensei~

Kenshokan dojo Referral Contest
Official Start Date February 1, 2009

Referrals are the highest compliment you can
show to your school and Sensei.
The Dojo realizes when our students and parents
refer us to their friends and family, you
and/or your child must be benefiting from
martial arts training. We believe a referral is
an extension of our student’s satisfaction, and
we do not want that to go unnoticed.
So, If you refer a friend OR family member
and they join the Kenshokan you are entered
in our referral contest.
1st. Prize, Trip for two to Disneyland
2nd. Prize, Choose one of the following,
Samurai Sword, Dojo hooded pullover,
Free Month of Lessons.
3rd. Prize KSK Dojo hooded pullover, Or
$25.00 Cash Card
Everyone who refers a friend will be entered
into a drawing for a special prize to be announced
at the end of our contest.
Any questions contact Sensei at 818-347-3656 or
Sensei@kenshokan.com

AJJF Convention 2009 4-17/4-19

2009-01-27T10:43:00.000-08:00

Need to arrainge a shared hotel room, leave a note here.

Century Club New Member !

2009-01-02T15:32:00.000-08:00

Congratsulations to Annette Stawski on her passing the first hurdle to be a Century Master. She joins the Century Club after having compleated 100 pushups in 1:54 seconds. Well done!

Caption Contest

2008-11-23T18:05:00.000-08:00

Work in progress by Alejandro Stawsky.
We are looking for a caption for this.
Any Ideas ?

~Sensei~

Here Comes the Century Club !

2008-11-23T16:13:00.000-08:00

For a few months now I have been hinting about the Kenshokan Century Club. This is a personal achievement club where students take it upon themselves to push a little harder and "max out" on their basic fitness skills. The rules are simple. To enter "the club" First be able to perform 100 push ups in a 2 minuet time period. Once this is done you are a member of the club. Your photo will go up on the website, and there will be a certificate, but that’s not why you do it. You do it for you because you can, or until you can.

I am proud to announce the first junior members of the Century Club.
Alejandro Stawski
Allen Sokolov
both completed 100 push ups in the time allotted. Congratulations !
Next up leg lifts, hill climbers, burpies, pole sits, etc.

Special thanks to Zachary Kauffman for helping the parameters of the club.
By the way he completed the 100 pushups in 53 seconds. Good luck beating that !

Ivy Academia Demonstration a Resounding Success!

2008-11-11T17:27:00.000-08:00

Tuesday November 11th the Kenshokan Martial Arts Academy held two back to back demonstrations of Schoolyard-safe self defense techniques at the Ivy academia charter school here in Woodland Hills. Participating in the demo were Sensei Poretz, Sempai Rosa Moreno, Sempai Zack Kauffman. Kenshokan students; Alejandro & Annette Stawski, and Elan Koulax. The demo began with Sensei Poretz giving a brief and somewhat humorous demonstration on the right and wrong way to defend oneself on the playground. We then invited the Ivy kids up to show how easy the basic arts are to learn and then apply.
The 50 or so Ivy students were eager to learn and with the help of the Kenshokan instructors and students the Ivy kids performed their techniques well and with a great spirit. Alejandro and Annette, both Ivy students demonstrated and the students followed and received thunderous applause.
Next up was Elan and Annette who demonstrated a very smooth “wrist whip” throw, a leg take down and a very smooth hip throw. Alejandro and Annette then demonstrated transitions from basic arts to more advanced arts, wowing the crowd. Showing that size doesn’t matter 5’ tall Alejandro threw 6’ Zack over his hip and backwards. Not to be out done Zack made sure that Alejandro got some air time of his own with an outside thigh sweep throw. Then Sensei Poretz demonstrated some advanced arts on Zack, appearing to violate the laws of gravity and getting “oohs” and “aahs” from the crowd.
We then had a Q&A session and the Ivy kids had a lot of great questions about jujitsu and other martial arts. They are an incredible and lively bunch.
I am looking forward to the Kenshokan providing more demos at schools and events throughout the school year.

The event photos are up for viewing CLICK HERE.
~Sensei

New Member

2008-10-29T01:21:00.000-07:00

The Kenshokan welcomes Danny H. to the dojo. Welcome. Enjoy. Train with sincerity.

Also Welcome home to Aaron and Maya R. It was a long summer and we certainly missed you.

Jealousy and Paradise

2008-10-22T22:34:00.000-07:00

I sat at the desk thrilled that some new was joining the dojo and at the same time we had someone trying it out for the first time. I know the benefits of DZR and wouldn't trade them for the world, but still it amazes me that someone new is joining the Ryu. Will they train for a year or two take the knowledge with them and move on or is this new student a future professor guiding and coloring our art.
Then it hits me. I cant stay, the mental battle begins. train with my students, and guest instructor Mat, or keep the word to the Misses ? She would understand. I am sure she would...............Family wins. Iam home, my 3 year old has Tammy last bit of patience on a thread, and I sit down to dinner with my family. Something I give up four nights a week for my other love the Kenshokan.
See you on the mat. Soon.

AM workout Schedule.

2008-08-12T23:28:00.000-07:00

Ok lets hear from you blue and greens, (gokyu and Yonkyu) I'd like to hold some AM classes for you guys. I am available Monday, Wednesday, and Friday AM best times between 8am and 10am. Nage and Shime and Blue lists to be covered.
Answer here and we'll get the gang together.
~Sesnei~

The Photoshop Effect and Self Image

2008-07-06T22:13:00.000-07:00

Watch the video, show it to all the women and girls you know. Don't let a magazine tell you how you should look. Be yourself, love yourself, be healthy.

Welcome

2008-06-30T17:21:00.000-07:00

The Kenshokan welcomes Michael S. as a full member of the dojo.

Message From Sensei Rainey

2008-06-23T13:55:00.001-07:00

Thank you so very much for attending my dojo's inaugural contest and
making it a great success. Thanks for encouraging and attending with
your students, as well as helping out with the judging. I greatly
appreciate that all of you played in the black belt division and
contributed to the enjoyment of the contestants and their families.

Sincerely,
Robbie

Professor Jenkins Visit.

2008-06-22T06:53:00.000-07:00

THIS WEEKEND !

The Kenshokan Martial Arts Academy is excited to be hosting Professor Tom Jenkins. Prof holds the rank of Sichidan (7th) in Danzan Ryu Jujitsu, also has extensive experience in Aikido and judo. He is the publisher of the Martial Arts Character Dictionary and is an expert on the Danzan Ryu mokuroku (catalogue). Expect to work your body and your mind Saturday and Sunday.
The dojo is responsible for Prof’s meals and lodging while he is with us, so any donation you would like to make will appreciated.

I will need voulentiers to help drive Professor and help secure lunch meals. Let me know ASAP if you can help.

Schedule
Saturday Aug 9 - Intradojo workout (10:00-12:00 AM),
Scroll Class (1:00-2:00 PM),
AJJF Black Belt Class (2:00-3:00) at Kenshokan
Sunday morning, Aug 10 - Kenshokan (Sensei Greg Poretz)

DOJO Calendar http://calendar.yahoo.com/kensho_kan

So You Want to Break Some Bricks ?

2008-06-18T00:16:00.000-07:00

Mmmmm bone crunching !
Enjoy your training.

Freestyle & Sumo Sunday !

2008-06-17T11:43:00.000-07:00

This Sunday we will be headed down to Lawndale Jujitsu Kai for the Freestyle and Sumo contests. Everyone has been making great effort and I am looking forward to seeing the dojo enjoying the completion.
The event is located at Lawndale High School (gymnasium)14901 S. Inglewood Avenue Lawndale, CA 90260
The start time is 11:00 AM/ we will be leaving from the dojo promptly at 9:30, there are a couple of parents who have offered to drive if needed.
Please have your payments in to me ASAP along with your judging forms (4 copies).
Here is the FLYER and the JUDGING FORM

any questions please contact me 818-347-3656 or kensho_kan@yahoo.com

New Kids On The Block

2008-06-16T23:56:00.000-07:00

The Kenshokan Martial Arts Academy proudly welcomes Norbert Nebusz (the Z is silent-like a ninja) and Reina O'Neil as members of the dojo.

Greg, Thabiti, & Alex Dojo Devolopment Page

2008-03-19T17:19:00.000-07:00

This is it.
I am printing up the ebooks. Am a little swamped with exams coming but, ever forward !

To Camp or Not to Camp

2008-03-19T16:51:00.000-07:00

Parents,

I am hearing a general rumbling of a desire for a summer camp. Tammy and I have been talking about it at length and think it is a workable possibility. I would like for us to meet as a group this Saturday evening or Sunday if possible to discuss our options. Please post responses and or questions here.

Gregory & Tammy