Famend for her illustrious profession in aggressive judo, Olympic, World and European champion, Tina TRSTENJAK has been embracing a brand new problem lately: mastering Kodokan kata by her function within the IJF Academy. Regardless of her excellent elite profession, there have been no bypass or corners lower, she embraced the journey with full professionalism. On this insightful interview, Trstenjak opens up about her transition between shiai to kata, reflecting on her evolving understanding of judo and the worth kata brings to her journey.
From Shiai to Kata: Increasing the Judo Horizon
On the planet of judo, “shiai” (aggressive preventing) is usually seen as the final word stage, the place grit, talent, and tactical prowess are put to the take a look at. Tina excelled on this area, dedicating her profession to coaching the Kodokan-classified methods and her favorite strikes, referred to as Tokui-waza, in each standing and groundwork. These efforts led her to Olympic, World, and European titles. But, kata was not in her highlight then…
Once I was competing on the elite stage, kata wasn’t my focus. I used to be absolutely invested in perfecting methods for competitors.
Tina highlights the affect of this specialised coaching on her profession, acknowledging that her exact focus introduced her medals. Nevertheless, her current journey into kata has revealed new layers of judo that transcend the aggressive tatami. It was by the IJF Academy that Tina’s mind set on kata began to shift. Her publicity to seasoned Olympic and World Championship instructors, together with Kodokan specialists, has given her an opportunity to check judo in a very new method.
I used to lack confidence within the true that means of kata however the IJF Academy offered me a useful alternative to dive deeply into all points of judo, notably kata. My perspective on kata has reworked, and now I’m actively studying and performing all 5 Kodokan-recognised competitors kata. It has been an eye-opening journey.
Difficult the Misconceptions Between Kata and Shiai
Amongst judoka, there are sometimes divided opinions on kata versus shiai. Many dismiss kata as much less important and even as a lesser apply in comparison with aggressive shiai. Tina encourages a extra balanced stance.
Those that have educated and competed in shiai have a robust understanding of it, simply as these devoted to kata perceive its worth. Each require dedication and convey distinctive strengths to 1’s judo journey. It isn’t about one being higher than the opposite, however quite about recognising the distinct worth every brings.
As Tina progresses in her kata journey, she has already accomplished Kodokan Goshin-jutsu, and she or he is steadily working her method by the remaining kata. Her journey by kata consists of Nage-no-Kata and Katame-no-Kata (collectively referred to as Randori-no-Kata), which she describes as a robust basis for newbies. She has additionally explored Ju-no-Kata, specializing in the pliability it encourages, and has devoted time to studying Kime-no-Kata and Kodokan Goshin-jutsu, the self-defense methods inside Kodokan judo. As a real champion, she strives to problem herself and excel in each facet.
My final aim is to exhibit all 5 Kodokan competitors kata by the top of 2025, and I hope to finish Kime-no-Kata by the top of this yr. By reaching this, I need to present that even Olympic and World Champions can excel in all points of judo, together with kata, thus contributing to the worldwide improvement of the game.
The Position of an Olympic Champion in Kata Apply
Reflecting on her present function as a mentor in kata, Tina believes that her background as an Olympic champion enriches her contribution to kata research and the IJF Academy.
Studying, learning, and performing kata, whether or not within the IJF Academy, Kodokan programs, or the Slovenian Judo Federation, has deepened my appreciation of judo’s values. This apply not solely enriches my private judo schooling but in addition allows me to move on information to the following era. Kata has taught me the significance of connecting with judo’s historical past and traditions holistically, which, in flip, enhances my function as an educator.
Tina’s journey in kata has proven her that success isn’t solely measured by medals but in addition by the affect on others. Her private perception underscores the twin function of kata apply as each, private fulfilment and a method of passing on information to the judo neighborhood.
Skilled kata apply might be quantified by achievements in competitions however it’s equally necessary to take a look at what number of college students you’ve impressed or taught.
When requested if there’s a contest between kata and shiai, Tina is obvious that each are obligatory for a whole judo schooling.
Kata and shiai are just like the wings of an airplane. Each are important and work collectively to provide steadiness to a judoka’s abilities and information.
The Lasting Advantages of Kata
Tina’s message for aspiring judoka is easy: kata is important for a full understanding of judo.
For a deeper understanding and a whole schooling in judo, study kata. It can improve your grasp of judo methods, ideas, and values in methods you may not count on.
Tina’s journey from elite shiai competitor to kata skilled exemplifies the significance of embracing judo in its entirety. Her experiences illuminate the complementary nature of kata and shiai, inspiring judoka worldwide to see kata not as a secondary facet of judo however as a vital a part of its apply. In her pursuit of mastering all 5 Kodokan kata, Tina is including her voice to the evolution of judo, championing a holistic method that preserves its heritage whereas nurturing the following era.
Pictures: Gabi JUAN / Dino SECIC
Writer: Szandra Szogedi
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