André Bertel's 3rd BRAGA, PORTUGAL Seminar: June 6th-7th, 2026.

Over the weekend of June 6th and 7th (2026) I conducted a third Technical Seminar in BRAGA, Portugal. The first was seven years ago in 2019 and the second in 2023. Hosted by KARATE BRAGA (https://www.karatebraga.com) the event marked the 25th Anniversary of the dojo and 25 years of Francisco Pinto Sensei (5th Dan) teaching Shotokan. Besides Francisco Sensei, Paulo Araujo Sensei (4th Dan) and Tiago Gomes Sensei (2nd Dan), I’d personally like to thank all the families and members of Karate Braga; furthermore, all of participants from other Portuguese clubs and from around Europe. Likewise, there was support from the Municipality of Braga; the Union Junta de Freguesia de Real; Dume e Semelhe; as well as all the business partners who greatly contributed to the organization and success of this international traditional karate event. While I won’t go into the specifics of the seminar (these are for those who trained), the overall themes were: ① Relaxation smoothness, flexibility and maximum velocity: namely via 柔軟性 (Junansei). ② Optimal use of one’s body mass via 体の伸縮 (Tai no shinshuku) and 地面反力 (Jimenhanyoku), 重力 (Juryoku) and 腰の力 (Koshi no chikara). ③ Traditional Budo Karate 基本技 (Kihon-Waza): Pre WW2 karate and post WW2 scientifically-based refinements. ④ 古典型 (Koten-gata): 掌手大 ( SHOTE-DAI) via request from dojo chief instructor, Francisco Sensei. ⑤ 武術空手における組手の間合い (The ‘Maai’ for Kumite in Bujutsu Karate); that is, the constant aim of ‘seeking to finish the opponent with a single action’. To conclude, I was very happy to hear so many people hoping for another seminar in the future, which is a great honor for me. It is indeed a great opportunity to share Shotokan directly from Japan with those who seek the TRUE WAY OF TRADITIONAL BUDO KARATE. In these regards I can only say to everyone involved ありがとうございます (Arigatou Gozaimasu —thank you very much) and 押忍 (OSU)! ______________________________ Andrė Bertel (7th Dan) Technical Director 国際空手道松濤館 International Karatedō Shōtōkan Oita City, JAPAN Email: [email protected] ______________________________