Solo Training

Once class is over the training doesn’t stay on hold. Training continues outside of the dojo whether or not you have someone to train with. This is where solo training comes in.

What is the idea of solo training?

The idea is to get the movements down. Basically like shadow boxing. Working on practicing a waza, evading off line, dakentaijutsu, kaiten, etc. This way when you get to practice with a partner you can work on refining your skills and on minor movements.

How long should you train for?

I recommend 15 minutes per technique (e.g. waza). Or performing a skill for a series of 9 times (e.g. kaiten, geri) on each side. But not going over 15 minutes on a skill. 

Try to break this into as many sessions as you can in a day. Training in at least 2 techniques in a day is ideal. That would equal to a maximum of 30 minutes of training.

Here are some examples of solo training lessons.

First off, practice at different levels of speed. Start off slowly, as slow as you can go. Then perform it slowly enough so you can still acknowledge everything that you are doing. When you feel you do have it down, go at a normal speed as if you are naturally walking. Always change up the speed levels. Don’t always work at the same speed all the time. Do work consistently and not vary it while practicing within the session. 

Tsuki - shizen to left tsuki. Right foot steps up and back into shizen. Practice continuously for a series of 9 times. Then practice on your right side. 

This can also be done in an alternating motion instead of one sided.

Chi no kata - shift forward into chi no kata. Then step up into shizen. Repeat 9 times then switch to the other side. This can also be done in an alternating motion instead of one sided. Or always in an alternating continuing motion as if you are walking forward. For a change up, practice in spot or in a backward motion.

Koku / Practice a waza - perform waza 9 times or for 15 minutes worth, whichever comes first. Either work on the full waza or on selective pieces to really get the movements down. Talk them out. Be aware of what you are actually doing and where you would be if you had a partner. 

How many days a week should I practice for?

At least 3 days a week. That is including the days you train at the dojo. 

Overall, enjoy your training. Whether it is solo training, partner training, or in the dojo. Create a training plan. Get organized on your goals. Finding out where you want to be in the next few months. Do you want to get better at rolls? Better with Gyokko Ryu? To get that next grade? Or even to have more confidence? 

Keep moving forward.