students an
opportunity to see each movement step by step for memory. Soon
after, however, the move is being executed lightning quick.
As students are taught to slap their hands on the mat after
being taken down, a loud thud echoes through the room and
reinforces the idea that the defense was successful.
Along with Kuzushi, two other elements to all Kokondo
techniques are also taught. Shorin- ji is one of these
elements, which according to Cohen, "refers to points and
circles which are the dynamic methods of movement to maximise
one's own power through straight and rounded motion."
The second, Jushin, is a center line principle.
|
"By dividing the body into axis, we can determine the
most ideal target to strike, angle to contain, or position
from which to throw," Cohen explained.
In the class, students are also taught techniques of disarming
an attacker. Fake guns and knifes are used to demonstrate how
one might take the weapon away and avoid injury.
Cohen's interest in the martial arts began at a young age. His
father practiced judo, a sport form of jujitsu, as a teenager.
He brought Cohen to a self-defense class, even though he did
not meet the minimum age requirement.
"Safety is always the first concern, but accidents can
happen and I actually got a bloody nose at
|
