(Approx 1 minute 40 second read)

As an instructor, if you have a goal when teaching your students, it’s important to ensure that the methods you use are the right ones for them.
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There are levels to teaching students, no matter the subject. But just because some students are at a lower level or are beginners, I do not agree with teaching something that is fundamentally flawed because of that level.
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Of course, you have to start somewhere – a fundamental aspect of any training process. However, teaching flawed methods that must later be unlearned is counterproductive. It’s crucial to establish a strong foundation from the start and build upon it progressively, integrating new techniques as needed while retaining the old ones.
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Engaging in drills that simulate realistic scenarios better prepares students for practical self-defense or combat situations. There is little point in asking them to do one set of drills and later telling them that they are of no use. Teach them the right way from the beginning.
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Helping beginners become accustomed to attacks and understanding distance and timing – often cited as reasons for certain practices – can be achieved effectively by following the templates provided in kata. This does not mean facing multiple opponents and blocking and striking each one in succession – we have already established that in a previous article.
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If the wrong way is taught, it is then processed and practiced over time until it becomes the default methodology. Arguably, this makes it more difficult to re-learn the correct method.
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And we see this everywhere in karate today. The 3K method of karate is being applied in areas where it doesn’t fit – like self-defense. A recent comment said, “Make this work outside a pub on a Saturday night, f*** karate”.
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Don’t get me wrong, if the way people are training addresses their goals, then fine. No single approach is inherently superior to all others.
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However, context is important once again, starting someone off with techniques or concepts only to change them later is counterproductive. It can lead to confusion and ingrained habits that are tough to break.
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From the beginning, I believe in teaching the correct principles and techniques for the goals you are trying to achieve, so that students build a strong, consistent foundation. This way, as they advance, they’re refining and deepening their understanding rather than having to relearn or correct what they were initially taught.
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Written by AC.
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Photo Credit: Kuro Obi World
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FYI: The image supports the idea that the correct path is grounded in the wisdom and knowledge passed down by experienced instructors.