There was a good mix of grades and styles and the seminar mainly focussed on the basics. It opened by repeating basic punches then kicks until our legs flatly refused to kick above gedan despite the fact that we were aiming for jodan and as for "once more", we learnt not to trust that very early on! We worked through simple combinations and repeated them in such quick succession and speed that our brains got warmed-up too. We then went through Gekisai Dai Ichi, did some self-defence combinations and then moved onto the pads, so much fun!!

Sensei Linda taught from a practical perspective. Everything she demonstrated was done so with reference to (mainly!) realistic self-defence scenarios. She stressed the importance of committing yourself 100% to your first technique because you might not get a chance to deliver a second, but already be putting into action a plan B, plan C all the way through to Z. She spoke of the benefits of putting yourself under pressure in a safe environment, so you feel adrenaline and fear and will be better equipped to handle a stressful situation outside the dojo. She went on to say far too much to tell you about here!

Before going to Sheffield I had read about how tough Sensei Linda is - holding a pad for her to deliver punches and back kicks to was an experience in itself and really quite inspiring! I also found her to be really encouraging and she egged us on to work harder and harder, she has a good sense of humour and made the class open and relaxed. She spoke about history and told us the story of the beginning of White Crane. She performed Seisan and Kururunfa as examples of the differences between the Go and Ju elements.

All in all, it was a very full and thoroughly enjoyable seminar and if you get the chance to train with her, I highly recommend the experience! Wolfgang, thank you so much for sending round details of the course and for helping get places.

Kate, Shorin Ryu

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