“We can choose to battle and defend our old ineffective foundation or battle to create a new, positive and strong foundation. This is called the basics.”
Shihan Brad Wenneberg
Once I made the decision to work on the basics in karate and in my personal life, something amazing began to happen. I found a new freedom and a new sense of who I am. In class, I focused my energy on my foundation — how I was gripping the floor with my toes and how my center of gravity was solid and balanced. I worked on all my fundamentals, from my stances to the positioning of my toes, wrists, knuckles, knees and eyes. I had to erase all that I knew to learn all what I needed to know. I had to ask questions and practice, practice, practice. As my basics improved, my karate skills advanced.
In my personal life, I find that I am more successful, peaceful, healthier and happier when my focus is doing the basics of life the “right” way instead of cutting corners or making excuses. Spiritually, I am sounder and more centered with a clearer understanding of what I have control over and what I don’t.
I practiced all the time until the fundamentals became second nature. Today I still practice and work on the basics, but they are no longer a challenge. It is like riding a bike: You never forget it.
A professional athlete always has a pre-season training regimen, and what do you think they are focusing on? I assure you they are working on the basics of their skills. They are doing the same skills over and over again even though they can do them in their sleep. The body, mind and spirit must be continually toned and practiced for top performance.
We cannot and must not rest on our laurels and assume that just because we know something there is no room for improvement or growth. Once we close the door to our work on the basics of karate, or life, that progress will not continue. The old adage that says the more we learn the less we know is erroneous. If you are paying attention and doing the proper steps for success, you will be getting smarter and wiser.
