Between the 3rd and 5th of January 2025, JKA WF Malta held its 2nd Mid-Winter Training – Kangeiko; a Japanese Budo Tradition of training early in the morning during the coldest time of the year.
This year Kangeiko was held over 3 days with around 60 members taking on the challenge.
The purpose of Kangeiko is to begin the New Year by challenging oneself, waking up early in the morning to train in cold weather, to set the same spirit of commitment for Training throughout the rest of the year.
Kangeiko training usually starts with an early morning jog, with the group chanting “Wasshoi”, a powerful Japanese cheer traditionally used during festivals whilst carrying a shrine and during sport events. Shouting “Wasshoi” transmits one’s energy, strength and commitment to encourage and make the group “work” together.
This continues to reflect in the encouragement given by the group to one another, to give one’s best in training in the dojo, both during Kangeiko and also throughout the rest of the year.
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