The Online KDS Training Program

Hello, and welcome to the info section for our very own KDS Training Program.

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As a Computer Science major at the University of Oregon, and a brand new white belt in Shotokai, I began thinking of ideas to make independent practice easier. Much of what we do in the dojo is a mixture of practicing some sets of movements, such as the Taikyoku, and then practicing very specific techniques, such as the many Ukes (blocks).

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Being a newcomer, I found practicing at home to be a little daunting. First of all, I live in an upstairs apartment, with a clingy dog, and non-padded flooring; my practice space isn't quite optimal. Second, I had no idea what I should do during these independent practices. Sure, I can practice the Taikyokus, but we learn so much more in the dojo that needs working on! So, I decided to create an automated and randomized training program.

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I was inspired by the traditional belt grading tests that some of our sister disciplines use in order for students to advance. The instructor yells a movement, and the student exercises that movement. This training program is just that, but with a couple of added details.

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First of all, this program will ask you what belt in Shotokai you hope to train for. The exercises used in the program are taken directly from the AKDS Belt Grading Standards sheet, found on the AKDS website here. After you have made your selection, the program will walk you through a series of techniques and movements using auditory and text commands, and you'll have a moment to pause and check your work against an image that will be displayed after the command. 

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This program is meant as a way to not only give our current students a way to improve upon their techniques but also as a way to introduce Shotokai to those who may be interested and want to learn more. 

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Of course, for more information about our discipline, and to find a dojo, please visit the American Karate-Do Shotokai website here. 

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