05/06/2026
Grateful to train and learn from Sifu Burton Richardson at the JKD seminar here in Tokyo.
We went deep into the core tools of Jeet Kune Do—the eye jab, lead side kick to the leg, and the straight lead—breaking down not just the techniques, but the why behind them. The focus on timing, distance, and making real-time adjustments based on your opponent really brought everything to life.
We also explored the 4 variations of the eye jab and the 4 T’s—tools, techniques, tactics, and training methods—which gave a clear framework for how to actually develop and apply JKD. The breakdown of trapping in both matched and unmatched leads was especially useful and practical.
What stood out most was how these tools were trained with purpose—refined through method, repetition, and intelligent variation. Seeing examples from Bruce Lee, his students, and professional athletes helped connect the concepts to real application.
And of course, the importance of sparring—training with safe resistance alongside partners to actually apply these techniques in a combat setting. That bridge between drilling and real application is where everything starts to click.
I especially enjoyed the discussion on the origins and evolution of JKD—how Bruce Lee developed his art from Jun Fan Gung Fu into Jun Fan Jeet Kune Do, starting in Seattle, then refining it through Oakland and Los Angeles. Each phase shaped what JKD would become—constantly evolving, constantly refining.
It was also an honor meeting Kenichi Osada, former Kudo Champion and now head of the Kudo organization.
Big thank you to Sifu Burton Richardson for sharing such valuable knowledge, and to Kotaro Morita for organizing and hosting this seminar. It was also great meeting everyone who came out to train.
