Most of the photos that we post are of groups of students lined up at the end of gradings or special classes. However, when Sensei George visited in May, Sensei Dick kindly took several photos during the padwork session. Practicing punches, kicks and other strikes on pads / kick shields is an essential part of karate training. It enables the student to execute their techniques with full power and speed in way that simply can't be replicated in any other way. Sensei George is a strong advocate of executing many repetitions, which builds endurance and contributes towards improved cardiovascular fitness. 

We last held a grading for the adults at the end of May, but it's not always possible to grade everyone due to holidays and other life events. Last night, on another warm Summer's evening, we focussed on ciriculum training, basics, san dan gi, more moving basics, kata, bunkai and padwork. At the end of which it was our pleasure to announce blue belt (6th kyu) pass to Joe. Congratulations also to Tarik on his first grading, to yellow belt, 9th kyu.