Do you take time to sit down with your students and tell them about Karate history, differences between aspects (like sports vs self defense), kata versions and other things, maybe even your ideas, experiences and methods (like interpreting kata, training contents/goals, ...)? How often does this happen, how much time does it take, do people appreciate it, ...? Let's share.
Posted Nov 5, 2020, 11:17 PM UTC
It depends on several factors.
First class composition. If I train beginners I explain a lot more as they need to understand principles already know to more advanced students. For example I explain them a lot about bio mechanics and how a technique should work when executed correctly. I also explain the history and why I use certain exercises. I also use the end of the training to answer questions if they got some.
Second training content. For examples if I teach a self defense class I will go over aspects like law and use of responsible force. Also deescalation and avoidance. So it got a big theory part. However that is not done in every class, but part of what I add when I teach self defense. If I teach more of a fitness class which is meant to improve cardio and build up fitness a theory part would be contra productive.
Also I’m always available for questions as my Sensei is as well. So we will answer questions out of Dojo time as well.
Those are after class conversations for the most part.
Nobody wants me to spend class time on that. They want to train.