A Cold Start, Strong Training, and a Proper Finish
This winter training event has been running for several years and is always something a little different — both physically and mentally.
A Different Format This Year
This year’s event was slightly shorter than usual, taking place over a single day rather than multiple sessions.
Even so, it still delivered everything you would expect from a traditional Kangeiko — cold conditions, demanding training, and a strong sense of camaraderie.
Sunrise Over Cleethorpes
The morning began with the drive into Cleethorpes, greeted by a striking purple sunrise over the seafront — one of those moments that reminds you why these sessions are worth the early start.
Conditions were cold and crisp, though not quite as biting as in previous years.
After informal greetings and catching up, the group gathered on the beach near the Leisure Centre, ready to begin.
No Run… This Time
Traditionally, Kangeiko includes a run along the seafront — from the Leisure Centre to the pier and back.
This year, that was skipped.
A welcome decision for some…
“My old knees are not built for running now.”
Beach Training Begins
Training was led by Sensei Andy, Chief Instructor of Kaizen No-Michi.
The session opened with:
- Warm-up and stretching
- Followed quickly by intense cardio
With around 10 participants — a mix of adults and younger kyu grades — the group was small but committed.
Even at this stage, the effort was already taking its toll.
Kihon on Sand
The technical focus began with gyaku-zuki turning sequences, specifically the four turning punches from the kata Unsu.
Executing these in the dojo is one thing.
Executing them:
- On sand
- In trainers
- With unstable footing
…is something else entirely.
Each turn churned the sand beneath the feet, making balance increasingly difficult — legs quickly becoming heavy and fatigued.
More kihon work followed, reinforcing fundamentals under challenging conditions.
Partner Work & Application
Once (slightly) warmed up — hoodies off, gloves still on — training moved into partner work.
A key sequence explored was based on the opening movement of Heian Shodan (Gedan Barai), adapted into a practical application:
- The preparation phase becomes a compression and control
- The stepping action becomes a step behind the opponent’s lead leg
- The blocking motion transitions into a throwing action
Each sequence was repeated multiple times, rotating partners — working with:
- Younger students (supporting development)
- Adults of varying grades (adapting application)
Training in the Elements
Sharing the beach with:
- Dog walkers (and very curious dogs)
- Early morning runners
…added to the atmosphere.
And thankfully:
Not many techniques involved defending kicks —
on sand, that usually ends with a face full of it.
Finishing Strong
The session concluded, as expected, with kata — bringing focus back to structure, control, and breathing.
By this point, everyone was fully awake… and fully worked.
The Real Reward
Post-training tradition took over.
A small group headed to Browns Café — a regular stop further along the seafront.
Not for ice cream.
But for:
- Hot coffee
- A full English breakfast
Exactly what was needed.
Thank You
A big thank you to Sensei Andy and everyone at Kaizen No-Michi for the invitation and warm welcome.
These sessions are always:
Challenging. Enjoyable. And well worth it.
Kyoto Shotokan Karate Dojo
Bristol (BS11)
🌐 www.kyotokaratebristol.co.uk
📸 Instagram: @kyotokarate
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