JKA Belgium hosted its annual international training camp in Brussels – November 7–9, 2025

 

From Friday, November 7th to Sunday, November 9th, 2025, JKA Belgium successfully organized its International Training Camp in Brussels. This prestigious event brought together karate practitioners from across Belgium and neighboring countries for three days of intensive training and camaraderie.

 

Special Guests and Hosts

The camp was honored by the presence of two distinguished JKA instructors:

• Shihan Yoshinobu Ohta (8th Dan, Chief Instructor JKA England)
• Sensei Ryota Ohsato (4th Dan, JKA HQ Tokyo)

The event was hosted by JKA Belgium’s senior instructors:

• Shihan Sergio Gneo (8th Dan, Chief Instructor JKA Belgium)
• Shihan Kazuhiro Sawada (8th Dan)

Their combined expertise ensured a high-level technical program and an unforgettable experience for all participants.

 

Pre-Camp Sessions

Prior to the official start of the camp, Sensei Ohsato conducted two special training sessions at the Sawada Academy Dojo on Wednesday, November 5th, and Thursday, November 6th. These sessions focused on:

• Heian Kata Series and Tekki Shodan – emphasizing key technical points and precision.
• Kumite Fundamentals – highlighting the importance of footwork for controlling distance and demonstrating effective uke-waza using wrist and hip rotation.

These preparatory classes set the tone for the high technical standard of the camp.

 

Gasshuku Training Program

The camp featured structured courses tailored to three distinct groups:

• Black Belts
• Brown Belts
• Color Belts

Each group received specialized instruction to refine their kihon, kata, and kumite skills. The sessions emphasized:

• Advanced kata applications and bunkai (Hangetsu, Gojushiho-Sho, Jitte, Meikyo, Unsu, Kanku-sho, Nijushiho, etc).
• Strategic approaches to kumite, focusing on timing, distancing, and defensive techniques.
• Technical drills to improve posture, hip rotation, and overall efficiency.

 

Atmosphere and Participation

The Brussels stage attracted a large number of participants, creating an atmosphere of dedication and mutual respect. The presence of international instructors provided unique insights into JKA methodology, reinforcing the importance of continuous learning and adherence to traditional Shotokan principles.

 

Acknowledgments

JKA Belgium extends its heartfelt gratitude to Sensei Ohsato and Shihan Ohta for sharing their knowledge and experience.
Shihan Sawada and Shihan Gneo for their leadership and organization.
All participants for their enthusiasm and commitment to karate-do.
This event reaffirmed JKA Belgium’s mission to promote technical excellence and foster strong bonds within the global karate community.