Renshu (練習) vs Keiko (稽古)

Here are two similar Japanese terms: RENSHU and KEIKO.
- RENSHU (練習) is to practice on your own, rote repetition, polish your technique.
- KEIKO (稽古) is a lesson in class under the sensei’s guidance. Keiko implies study for a deeper understanding of your technique. It often involves hands-on training, working bunkai (analysis; disassembly; examination) of fighting techniques found within your kata.

We have been unable do to hands-on training during COVID. No kumite… no ippons… mostly basics and kata, and for change of pace, kata and basics. We have grabbed sticks to simulate arms and legs. We have discussed how a move works. As someone once said: It’s like trying to fill your hunger by reading a menu. You get it in theory, but it’s not really satisfying.

On the positive side, we polished our basics, learned new kata, and honed our techniques. Now that pandemic restrictions are lifting, we can take these new, improved techniques and start applying them on each other in more realistic scenarios.

Our restricted training and Zoom effectively served a limited purpose. It kept us from rusting or forgetting our Karate. The best news is that better days are ahead. To be ready, to stay ready, follow what I usually shout out at the end of class: PRACTICE!