​Shotokan Karate Academy

Execution Method

The attacker (Semete) informs his opponent of the target from a free sparring stance and when he feels that the Maai (distance) and timing are appropriate, launches an attack. The defender (Ukete) has option to:

• Shift accordingly in response while blocking the attack and then follows through with counterattack.

• Simultaneously counter while shifting his body

If the defender (Ukete) remains in the same location from where he delivered the counterattack, he would be within easy striking range of the attacker, thus upon completing the counterattack the defender must choose one of the following scenarios:

• Immediately distance himself from his opponent

• Close the distance by moving directly next to the attacker

Both attacker and defender must determine how to make the most out of the single chance they have to either attack or defend.

Note 1

When experienced practitioners engage in this type of kumite the attacker will read his opponent's breathing. He may time his attack for the instant that the defender begins to inhale. It is important that the defender must not allow his breathing to be read by the attacker. This can be achieved by maintaining proper posture and using the abdomen to control breathing.

Note 2

Attacker may also employ techniques as false start to break his opponent's concentration or catch him off-balance. The defender must not be fooled by such tricks. This requires the development of mental courage enabling him to wait until the last possible instant before the attacker's strike makes contact, along with sufficient training in use of the body rotation (Tenshin) and body shifting (Tai Sabaki).

Characteristics

• Leg movement and body shifting (Tai Sabaki) that immidiately follow the delivery of each counterattack have a particular importance

• Often serves as a bridge between "Kihon Kumite" and "Jiyu Kumite"

• In "Tanren Kumite" and "Kihon Kumite", the Maai (distance) remain constant, but in "Jiyu Ippon Kumite" the distance is more fluid and constantly changes

• In "Tanren Kumite" and "Kihon Kumite", the defender uses his own strength to block his opponent attack and then launches his counterattack. However, in "Jiyu Ippon Kumite" the defender takes advantage of his opponent's power, combining with his own strength and technical ability to shift his body (Tai Sabaki) in response to the attack and then follow through with a counterattack. It is this aspect of "Jiyu Ippon Kumite" that distinguishes it from the "Tanren Kumite, " and "Kihon Kumite"