Over the past few weeks the instructors and national executive of the Australian Shorinjiryu Karatedo Association Inc have been monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation closely, and have been progressively implementing modifications to training based on the extant guidelines from the Australian Government.
To date we have deferred our National Training Camp, scheduled for May, and implemented restrictions on training activities to comply with social (physical) distancing requirments.
As of last week, we suspended all dojo training, with some dojo offering limited outdoor training with groups of students, observing strict physical distancing and hygiene.
Noting the Prime Minister's announcements of 29 March 2020, indoor and outdoor gatherings are now limited to two people. Therefore, any training activity will be limted to private, one-on-one training (one student to one instructor). Such training will be conducted only at the discretion of the individual instructor, and physical distancing requirements will be strictly observed.
Karate is an art of self-defence, and the best self-defence at this time is to protect yourself and others by following the current guidelines of the Australian Department of Health. These guidelines currently include:
During this time, we encourage members to practice their kata privately. Any training involving contact with others is to be avoided. Virtual training sessions, using the internet, is being investigated by some instructors.
Shorinjiryu Koshinkai Karatedo is comprised of instructors and members who have dedicated many years to the study of our art. We look forward to seeing you all on the other side of this time. Stay well, and practice the guidelines above.