Going back to Japan is always memorable but this time is special. 

I haven’t seen Yonemoto Sensei for a while, my Parkinsons effecting my movement in many ways. On my last visit in 2017, my weight had reached an alarming 113kg; walking had become a challenge and if I had continued on this awful path, my future would not have been good. Although, through improved medication delivery for my illness, my weight and functioning has improved since then; travelling and training is still increasingly difficult. 

Now, going to the dojo 4 times a week requires resilience and commitment, as I’m not as physically fit as I would like to be so, although daunting, this journey to Japan is important.

Long haul flights are always exhausting, at 70 years old, thinking I’m 17 again is not the best way to look after my health, but I have always believed one’s mental and physical state and balance are vital for a healthy and long life. I feel this journey is important, not just for me but for my students.

Debbie Strong, who is one of the senior instructors and panel members of the KYUDOKAN, was very excited, as it is her first time visit to Tokyo and to see Yonemoto Sensei and experience the Seibukan dojo. She had met and trained with Yonemoto Sensei before when he visited the UK, many years ago.

One of the most dedicated karateka, I have the privilege to teach Debbie and I felt it was the right time to extend and challenge her studies.

I had arranged to meet up with Pietman Sensei from Cape Town, South Africa on my visit last year. We have built a great friendship over the years on my visits to his dojo and always enjoy our studying together. I thought it would be good for Debbie to meet Pietman. Pietman and I are from the same Nihon Goju Ryu Karate Do lineage, always studying.

Pietman arrived in Japan a few days before us and had a few one to one lessons with Yonemoto Sensei in between the dojo classes. On our arrival, we met in Kita Ayase for food; Debbie’s first introduction to Japanese cuisine; and later moved on to the Seibukan dojo.

The lesson with Yonemoto Sensei on Seipai was informal and most enjoyable especially for Debbie, who was corrected on Seipai in great detail; taking time to discuss how posture and stance changes result in much stronger and more efficient technique.

As always, Sensei thrived on answering our questions – at 86 this week, his fighting spirit and enthusiasm remain undiminished and contagious.