Luton Higash Karate Kai

Sensei Jo Biggs Seminar - June 7th 2009

Above - Jo Biggs and Danny with Luton Lunatics Karen, John and Jeff

On Sunday the 7th of June the Luton Lunatics were honored to welcome Sensei Jo Biggs to our dojo for a Ju Jitsu seminar.

Above - Enrico strictly come dancing with Allun

Ju Jitsu has always been a fascinating style to watch and concentrates more on the most efficient methods for neutralising an enemy via the use of pins, joint locks and throws. The techniques focus on the principle of using an attacker's energy against him, rather than directly opposing it

Above - class warm up

Below - Sensei Jo Biggs demonstrating techniques

The session began with a light warm up by Sensei Biggs' uke Danny. We then moved into partner work using arm locks to repel an opponent backward or to the floor. Sensei Biggs and Danny walked the floor giving pointers and tips on stances and striking points which were gratefully (and painfully!) received.

Above and Below - the kids having a go!

Both Lakshmi and I were then volunteered into playing the part of Sensei Biggs' opponent and took turns to be locked up on the floor. The techniques being delivered concentrated on keeping an opponent pinned to the ground by pushing the head into the floor whilst locking an arm behind the back. I can speak honestly when I say that I haven't been in that much pain or felt that helpless in a long time.

Above - Sensei Jo Biggs demonstrating the arm lock in detail

Below - Sensei Jo Biggs demonstrating the pain in detail

More complex partner work followed, this time involving strikes to the face, arms and legs. Again Sensei Biggs walked the floor giving advice and explanations into more complex techniques. Lakshmi was volunteered to help Sensei Biggs demonstrate open palmed strikes to the face. Those of us watching could feel Lakshmi's pain for him. I can still hear "that" slap now!!

Above - Lakshmi enjoying a good slap

The session ended with defenses against armed opponents, specifically knife attacks. I particularly enjoyed this half of the lesson because we could incorporate the kicks and throws we have learned in Karate as well as the principles taught by Sensei Biggs.

Above - Omari throttling Hayley. It's OK, she deserved it!

Below - Lakshmi getting kinky against a knife attack from Afghan

We were also introduced the "Traffic Light" principle. - The ability to develop awareness of potentially dangerous situations in order to avoid them, or at least be best prepared for them by using everyday objects in self defense.

Above - ladies defending against a knife attack

All attendees enjoyed the experience and took away a great deal of information.

Above - practicing a lock

We extend our thanks to both Sensei Biggs and Danny for taking the time to visit our dojo and hope to welcome them back in the near future.

Above - the Luton Lunatics with Sensei Jo Biggs and Danny

By Afghan