Teachings of Grand Master Sosui Ichikawa
The First Thirty Years of Training
10-10-10
First Decade:
The first 10 years of training are dedicated to the Body. At this point in training, one is a student. Workouts are hard, physically demanding in order to develop speed and power. Katas are at the first level of form.
Second Decade:
The second 10 years of training are devoted to the Mind. The student is now a disciple. The focus of training shifts to the understanding of waza, kata, and most importantly the heart and mind. Katas are orthodox form.
Third Decade:
The third 10 years of training embrace the Spirit. The disciple has become a teacher. During this time training takes aspects of unification of "Body, Mind and Spirit" with meditation, ki-waza and kokyu waza. Katas are energy forms.