I have trained in Shotokan Karate for several years and a few other martial arts. I have had some very good Senseis and some not so good. In all my years I have never been taught to such a degree of understanding as I am now receiving from Sensei Oscar Silvera. His knowledge and understanding of the martial arts are way beyond anything that I have ever been taught and have ever seen. I wish I had been been schooled by him in my younger days but as a wise man said, It is never too late.
John T.
Livonia, MI
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Dear Sensei Oscar,
My husband and I with my son has visited and observed some Karate classes (including Tae Kwon Do) around my place, closer than yours, and we found out that no instructor was as good as you, Oscar Sensei.
We investigated a lot about if there are convenient location, reasonable tuition and good quality of practice (that is the most important), and we spend many hours before deciding what we should do here...
My husband and I have no choice other than you as his Sensei to practice with considering with Karate technique even if the location is too faraway from us!
And I would like to make sure that my son can be strong enough to wear a black belt during our 3 more years staying in U.S.!
We are looking forward to see you soon.
Mrs. Suzuki
Novi, Michigan
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Sensei Oscar and all of the instructors offer a wealth of expertise with everyone bringing something unique to the mix. This is a very friendly club and it is a pleasure to train there especially with so many times available for training.
Richard
Livonia, Michigan
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Nice, clean facility. Oscar is a great teacher and very friendly with everyone!
My 5 year old daughter absolutely loves learning Karate!
Diana
Dearborn, MIchigan
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My daughter and I train together here at Silverado Nippon Karate and really appreciate the personal attention given to each student. Sensei Oscar takes everyones development very seriously and personally. Training is always challenging and enjoyable. We will continue to train here for a long time!!!
Paul
Livonia, Michigan
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Sensei Oscar and his staff are very thorough and provide a wide range of both technical and practical training. I am very impressed with the individual attention Sensei provides to all of his students. His goal is obviously to bring the student to the height of their own ability and does not try to fit everyone in the same mold.
Rick
Livonia, Michigan
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Sensei Oscar and all the black-belt instructors that assist him are great teachers. You will get in shape, learn self-defense and also receive insights into the deeper meaning of traditional martial arts. It is also possible to train 6 days per week. The kicking class on Saturday morning is phenomenal, and so are the other days when different aspects of Shotokan Karate-do are emphasized. The place is great for kids as well as adults trying to get back into shape. Love this dojo. Dan O, Livonia.
In our Karate seminar, we will practice the original defensive applications that are covered by our style of Shotokan Karate. These bring elements of ground fighting, joint locking, and throwing as well as the punching and kicking methods. This program also includes advanced specialty classes focusing on reality-based weapon defenses (stick, gun, and knife), and mixed martial arts.
About our Bunkai Seminars:
FAQ
What is Bunkai?
Bunkai, literally meaning "analysis" or "disassembly", is a term used in the Japanese Martial Arts referring to process of analyzing kata and extracting fighting techniques from the movements of a "form" (kata).
What is a Kata?
Kata are small, structured practice routines or protocols. Through physical practice, their pattern becomes second nature, done with little conscious attention. Kata are typically for learning. Kata is considered to be the soul of Karate.
Why Bunkai?
Unfortunately; it is widely interpreted that the basic techniques in a kata as only simple blocks or simple strikes.
Did you know?
Many techniques in a Kata contain all the hallmark of signature basic to brutal techniques, including atemi-waza (striking), nage-waza (throwing or takedowns), kansetsu-waza (joint-locks & manipulation), shime-waza (choking), ne-waza (ground fighting & submission) and usage of human pressure points.
Sensei Silvera's Practical Karate seminar imparts the original defensive applications inherent in his style of Shotokan Karate. And, incorporates elements of ground fighting, joint locking, throwing, as well as traditional punching and kicking techniques. The class extends to advanced specialty sessions, delving into reality-based weapon defenses for stick, gun, and knife scenarios, along with insights into mixed martial arts.
Sensei Silvera embarked on his martial arts journey in 1984, exploring a diverse range of disciplines such as Iaido, Aikido, Taekwondo, Judo, Kudo, Kobudo, Krav Maga, Tai Chi, Kickboxing, Kung Fu, and more. This extensive training background has shaped him into a well-rounded martial artist, offering a distinctive and holistic perspective on the world of martial arts. His notable ranks include 5th Dan in Shotokan Karate and Black Belt Dans in Aikido, Iaido, and Tae Kwon Do, underscoring his unwavering commitment to continuous growth and excellence across various martial arts disciplines.
BENEFITS
A Bunkai seminar offers numerous benefits for karate practitioners, both beginners and advanced. Here are some key advantages:
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Deeper Understanding of Kata:
- Bunkai (application) helps practitioners understand the practical purpose behind each movement in a kata, turning abstract forms into practical techniques.
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Improved Self-Defense Skills:
- By breaking down kata, participants learn how to apply techniques in real-life self-defense scenarios, enhancing their ability to protect themselves.
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Enhanced Technical Skills:
- Practitioners can refine their techniques by understanding the application, leading to improved form and precision in kata performance.
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Increased Confidence:
- Knowing the practical applications of techniques boosts confidence in one’s ability to use karate effectively in various situations.
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Better Muscle Memory:
- Repeatedly practicing the application of movements helps build muscle memory, making techniques more instinctive and effective.
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Enhanced Sparring Skills:
- Understanding bunkai can improve sparring skills by providing insights into offensive and defensive tactics derived from kata.
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Broader Martial Arts Knowledge:
- A Bunkai seminar often covers historical and philosophical aspects of kata, enriching participants’ overall martial arts knowledge.
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Problem-Solving Abilities:
- Analyzing and interpreting kata movements develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as practitioners learn to adapt techniques to various scenarios.
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Community and Networking:
- Seminars provide an opportunity to meet and train with other martial artists, fostering a sense of community and offering networking opportunities.
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Personal Growth:
- The discipline, focus, and perseverance required to study bunkai contribute to personal growth and character development.
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Instructor Development:
- For instructors, a Bunkai seminar can provide new teaching methods and insights, enhancing their ability to teach kata applications effectively.
Attending a Bunkai seminar can significantly enhance a karate practitioner’s understanding, skill set, and overall appreciation of the martial art.