The way of the empty hand
If you would like to assist, call Nicky Johnson on 074 1370 167.
Karate is a discipline in the martial arts and there are different forms of karate. The karate classes in Riverlea are overseen by Nicky Johnson who practices Goju-Ryu karate. This style is a combination of the different karate forms.
“Our style is very defensive. The best form of defence is attack, but there are laws within the country which state that if you attack first it is not self-defence, so you have to be careful in the manner in which you use karate,” said Johnson.
According to the sensei, karate means ’empty hand’ or ‘without weapons’ and originated in Okinawa, Japan. Johnson said that it was best to send a child to these classes as soon as they start walking properly. The children are taught katas which is basically muscle memory.
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“It’s taking all the movements you’ve learnt and put them together as a sequence. In karate, the greatest power comes from using the hips and breathing. Like Bruce Lee said, take what works for you.
“Our movements are all unique, it depends on how our bodies interpret the movements. Karate helps the memory, it is about remembering and repeating. It’s the same as people sending their children for therapy, rather send them to karate,” said Johnson.
The head sensei who is from Cape Town has been practicing karate for close to fifty years and he has taken elements from the different forms of karate.
This combined technique includes weapons and this provides the students with an advantage when in tournaments because they can perform in multiple areas.
There are also self-defence classes but Johnson explained that these classes are for people who are not committed to the art.
“The problem with self-defence is that if you do not live it, an attacker will catch you by surprise and then it will be too late to do anything. Karate becomes your lifestyle and that’s why it is important to practice it regularly,” said Johnson.
The Riverlea group is having their five-day camp from December 10 to December 15 in Cape Town. The camp entails eight hours of non-stop training after which the children will be graded based on their performances at the camp.
“The camp is like Survivor, and once the students are done with it they come out much stronger,” added Johnson.
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There will be different students from all over the country at the camp and Johnson would look for her students to be there too. A few students have already secured their spot at the camp, but there is one who needs assistance.
The cost is R1200 for accommodation, meals and the training. The transportation is the expensive aspect and she would like all of the students to fly.
For many, this will be their first time on a plane and she would like to be there for their first experience. The return flight will cost R2,000 for the student.
“We are a family. It’s providing the children with a sense of belonging,” said Johnson.
