A Lifetime dedicated to goshin-Jitsu: Gert Closmann Awarded 9th DAN
Gert Closmann, a prominent figure in the goshin-Jitsu community, was recently honored with the prestigious 9th DAN at the Bavarian Goshin-Jitsu Association’s state course in Forchheim. This distinguished recognition celebrates his unwavering commitment and notable contributions to both the association and the broader martial arts landscape.
Closmann’s journey began in 1964 with judo at Post SV Nürnberg, where he achieved his 1st DAN in 1973, a rank he still holds today. His passion for martial arts led him to the Goshin-Jitsu Association of Bavaria in 1995, where he not only became a member but also established a goshin-Jitsu group at vfb Forchheim in the same year. His leadership and dedication were instrumental in elevating Goshin-Jitsu to its own department within VfB in 2003, a position he has held ever since.
Beyond his club involvement, Closmann has been a driving force within the Goshin-Jitsu Association of Bavaria. From 1996 to 2023,he served as the second board member,and in March 2023,he assumed the role of President,further solidifying his commitment to the institution’s growth and progress.
The recent kata course and DAN exam, held in the vocational school gymnasium under Closmann’s guidance, exemplified his dedication to fostering the next generation of Goshin-Jitsu practitioners. Ten athletes from across Bavaria participated in the intensive training, focusing on the Goshin-Jitsu-No-Kata according to Kodokan principles.Kata, a fundamental training method in classical martial arts, played a crucial role in this course. Historically, many Ryu (schools) relied on kata as their primary training method because many techniques were possibly lethal if practiced freely. Kata, meaning “studying methods of fighting in a predetermined manner” as defined by Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo, provided a safe and structured environment for mastering these techniques.The culmination of the course saw three athletes successfully passing their kata exam, a testament to Closmann’s exceptional teaching and the effectiveness of the kata training methodology.
A Lifetime of Dedication: An Interview with Gert Closmann
Today, we have the immense pleasure of speaking with Gert Closmann, a true titan in the world of goshin-Jitsu. Recently awarded his 9th DAN, Gert’s journey through martial arts is a testament to unwavering dedication and a passion that has spanned decades. Welcome, Gert.
Gert: It’s a pleasure to be here. Thank you for having me.
Moderator: Your story is truly inspirational. Starting with judo in 1964, achieving your 1st DAN, and eventually becoming a pivotal figure in the goshin-Jitsu community – it’s been a remarkable journey. What initially drew you to martial arts, and what kept that fire burning all these years?
Gert: It’s difficult to pinpoint exactly what sparked my interest.I was a young boy when I started judo, and I think it was the combination of discipline, physical challenge, and the sense of camaraderie that truly hooked me. Over time, that passion evolved into a deep appreciation for the philosophy and the physical and mental benefits that martial arts offer.
Moderator: You’ve played a crucial role in establishing and cultivating goshin-Jitsu within your community, becoming President of the Goshin-jitsu Association of Bavaria in 2023. what excites you most about the future of goshin-Jitsu, and what challenges do you foresee?
Gert: I’m incredibly optimistic about the future of goshin-Jitsu. We are seeing a growing interest among younger generations, which is fantastic. The focus on practical self-defense and the emphasis on both physical and mental well-being resonate strongly in today’s world. However, we do face challenges. Raising awareness, attracting new members, and ensuring the continuity of traditional teaching methods are all crucial for the continued growth of goshin-Jitsu.
Moderator: The recent kata course and DAN exam you oversaw highlighted the importance of kata as a foundational training method. Many traditional martial arts rely heavily on kata, but some argue its relevance in modern training.what are your thoughts on this debate?
Gert: Kata is absolutely essential. it’s not simply about performing movements – it’s about understanding the principles, the flow, the defense, and the attack embedded within each technique. Kata provides a structured environment to develop muscle memory, precision, balance, and importantly, an understanding of the underlying philosophy of goshin-Jitsu. This foundation is crucial for effective self-defense and the advancement of any serious martial artist.
Moderator: what advice would you give to someone considering embarking on their martial arts journey?
Gert: Find a reputable school, be patient, and commit yourself fully. Martial arts is a journey, not a destination. It’s about self-finding, discipline, and continuous learning. Embrace the challenges, and enjoy the process.
Moderator: Thank you, Gert, for your time and insightful perspectives. Your dedication and passion for goshin-Jitsu are truly inspiring.
What do you think, readers?
Does Gert’s emphasis on kata resonate with your experience in martial arts? Do you agree that traditional martial arts still hold relevance in today’s world? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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