Episode 8 Hai! Karate - Journey to Japan

'Britain is full of families struggling to find time.

'Could sharing a once-in-a-lifetime experience solve their problems?

'Four families travelled to Japan to immerse themselves in the culture

'and learn karate,

'a traditional martial art that teaches discipline and respect.

'Will the regime bring them closer together?'

One of the first things I've done with my dad.

-I love my dad loads.

-Everything you want from a kid.

'Or will the challenges force them further apart?'

-You've got to communicate.

-You always go on about it.

To be treated like a grown-up she has to act like a grown-up.

'Can this unique experience give them the fighting spirit

'to earn a place at the World Karate Tournament?'

Mikey's going to be very upset.

'And improve their relationships?'

This is going to be tough.

'Four families are learning karate from Grand Master Morio Higaonna

'to see if discipline and respect will improve their relationships.'

My dad plays keyboard in a band at night,

so I don't see him that often.

Mum's really dowdy and boring.

My dad don't think you have to be sporty to do dancing.

He hasn't grown up to the fact that he is an adult now.

'Last time on Hai! Karate.'

-She's talking to me like a piece of poo.

-She's not.

-She is.

'Phoebe and Joe clashed when the parents had to train with the kids.'

How are we going to practise in this sort of drama?

You just go your own way.

'Brent wasn't impressed with the group's attitude.'

That was appalling.

'He gave them a serious warning.'

Your grading is tomorrow. I don't think anyone's going to pass.

Hai! Karate!

'At dinner, the kids reflect on Brent's telling off.'

When Brent had a go at us, it was a real wake-up call for us.

I can understand his frustration, but his comments were unfair

when he said that we haven't tried, like we just weren't bothered.

'Thoughts turned to the daunting task ahead, tomorrow's belt grade.'

Hands up who thinks they're going home with a belt

of a colour other than white?

I feel raring to go.

I'm very nervous. I really want to win this yellow belt.

'The morning of the belt grading arrives after a restless night.'

I woke up a million times thinking about the kata.

I haven't slept very well.

Breakfast for champions. All I'm seeing are champions.

Just done a kata in the shower.

Any little space or time, I'm going to do it. I'm quietly confident.

I don't know who's going to get their belt. Hopefully everyone does.

Especially me and my dad.

We're going through. Think positively. Can we do it?

-Hai!

-Hai!

It's just so nerve-racking. I'm so nervous.

'With five hours until the families are judged by the Grand Master,

'they head to the beach for their final lesson with Brent.

This is the last training before your grading. We'll practise kata.

First as a group, then we'll look at each other individually.

CALLS OUT COMMANDS

Elbows in. Elbows in.

'As usual, the adults are struggling.

'Then Paul dares to answer back.'

I can't keep stopping. It's ridiculous.

It's not ridiculous. Do you want to sit out?

-You keep stopping halfway through.

-Go and sit down.

'I'm sitting out of the group at the moment,'

cos I questioned Brent on training.

It's the first time I said a single word and he's dug me out for it.

So, I don't know.

I feel like a naughty little boy.

'Paul doesn't realise how much he's insulted Brent.'

You think you know better how to train?

-You don't talk back to your sensei.

-I was asking a question.

You weren't. You told me it was ridiculous.

If you think it's ridiculous, go train by yourself.

'With Paul banished, and only five hours until their grading,

'Jed steps in to help get his dad up to speed.

'This is a massive turnaround for their relationship.

'At home, Jed's ballet never used to impress Paul.'

I wouldn't class ballet as a sport. I don't think it's exerting.

'In Japan, Paul's realised how dancing has helped Jed's Karate.'

I thought I'd have to mother him but it's gone the other way.

That's what's really surprised me.

Put your hand down a bit.

'Not only is Jed's knowledge helping improve Paul's karate,

'it's helping their relationship.'

I didn't realise what a strong character he is

and how loveable he is - everyone takes to him.

I take him for granted at home.

What are you laughing at? Cos I'm praising you up?

Don't get much praise, do you? Good to hear it?

'With Paul's private lesson over, Brent gathers the group together.'

-Paul, have you learned your lesson?

-Yes. I'm ready to go.

-OK.

-Respect at all times.

-I'm going to get everyone to line up here.

'He wants each person to perform their kata for the first time.

'This will prepare them for the pressure they'll be under later.'

This is at the same level, OK?

-Very good. More concentration on the feet.

-Yeah.

-OK.

-'The kids appear confident.'

-Very good.

'But they're worried their parents are heading for failure.'

I think that my dad needs to up his game,

to look like he really wants his yellow belt

and perform in the World Karate Championships.

'Judging by Sandra's performance, she's got a long way to go.'

I think Mum could get through but... she needs to practise.

'Mark could do with taking Chloe's advice!'

I don't think Dad's giving 100% because I can see he's not doing it that well.

-Don't give up.

-No, no...

-It's not impossible.

'Brent's done all he can, ending the lesson with some useful advice.'

In the grading, it's not just kata.

It's also about your fighting spirit.

There's only two hours left.

Get as much practice in as you can, but save your energy too.

Good luck.

Off you go.

'It's down to the families to help each other perfect the routine.'

Hai! You go one... Two!

What are we doing now?

Yeah. Right from the start.

'With a few hours to go, the kids are doing all the coaching.'

My dad's worried. He don't want to let me down.

The pressure's on him, but I reckon he'll pass.

-As long as I get me feet right?

-Yeah.

'Joe needs Phoebe's help but as usual they're bickering their way through training.'

-Any attention?

-You're a bit...

-My foot's not right.

-You're kind of going...

You look like you're trying hard but you're a bit...

I should try less hard?

I do know a bit so we needs to work with him listening to me a bit more

and me trying to not get so stressed-out.

It's about the teamwork and communicating with each other.

-Some stuff you're telling me is useful.

-Let's start from the top.

-You forgot your foot.

-I've lost it.

I'm losing my confidence.

-I need constructive criticism.

-I'm trying to be constructive.

I know you're doing your best. I'm not having a go. Well, I am...

'Let's hope Mikey has better luck.

'Mark is struggling with the basics, which Mikey finds frustrating.'

Let's just run through it slowly.

My dad has a lot of practice to go.

Other hand.

'That's very worrying.'

Because if we don't get through, that'll be a bit upsetting.

Out! What are you doing?

Swing...

'Chloe shows her mum a technique to remember dance routines.

'Naming each action seems to help Sandra.'

When I knock, I've got the telephone, I go round my face...

Chloe, being a dancer, is very good at picking up routines.

Put your tea on your saucer.

Bring your feet up

and down and apart...

'The arguments have stopped.

'Now they're communicating, they seem closer.'

I think Mum has improved a lot!

She's coordinated. I'm very happy. I'm very proud of Mum.

INTERPRETER: Karate is not about fighting others.

It is a battle to win against yourself.

'The time for practice is over.

'After two weeks of intense training

'the moment the families have been nervously waiting for arrives.

'Who has made enough progress to be awarded a yellow belt

'and have the honour of representing the finest Grand Master in the world at the World Karate Tournament?'

I've done my best throughout, and a lot of last-minute practising.

-I want that yellow belt.

-I don't want to let this chance slip away.

I need to get this yellow belt.

Chloe will get her yellow belt. The pressure is on me.

We'll see what happens. I can only do my best.

Because I haven't won a challenge, I don't want to mess up.

When it starts, everyone's going to be very nervous.

I'm going to put absolutely 100% effort into this.

Even if it hurts, I'll carry on.

-PAUL:

-On for a big experience together.

This is the pinnacle now. This is the icing on the cake.

Me and my dad are really psyched up about getting that yellow belt

and performing in front of the Grand Master.

It's just really, really amazing.

Bit nervous, bit excited. All emotions are flowing.

You have been training in karate for two weeks.

Now it's time to see how far you have come,

as you face your belt grading.

As with any belt grading in karate, you'll be tested in your kihon,

or basics, kata, as well as your fighting spirit.

You will be judged on your technique, speed and power...

..stamina and attitude.

No talking.

No questions.

Just karate.

Never give up.

Are you ready? ALL: Hai!

'It all comes down to this, the belt grading.

'Have the weeks of practice paid off?

'Are they ready for this, the ultimate test?

'Only the Grand Master can decide.'

SPEAKS IN JAPANESE

BRENT: Time for your grading.

First we'll test the kids at kihon.

Adults, leave the stage.

'Kihon are the basic attacking and blocking moves

'used for self-defence.

'The families will be judged on the swiftness of the blocks,

'the speed of their punches...

'..and the accuracy of their kicks.

SPEAKS IN JAPANESE

'After a solid start by the kids,

'it's the adults' turn to show Sensei what they've learned.'

CALLS OUT COMMANDS

'The first part over, it's time for the hardest part, the kata routine.

'Karate means "empty hand" because no weapons are used.

'Every move can be used to defend yourself in a fight,

'so must be performed with precision and power.

'Two weeks ago, none of these families had ever done karate.'

First, Chloe.

'Now they must perform their routines flawlessly.

'One mistake will be the difference between a yellow belt or not.'

When he said my name, I did a little smile. "Here we go!"

'Then just kind of did my thing."

SPEAKS IN JAPANESE

'Chloe attacks the kata with power and determination

'and, so far, has done all the moves perfectly.

'Chloe set the standard high.

'Will the others live up to her performance?'

Next is Phoebe.

'Phoebe spent her last chance to practise coaching her dad.

'Does she know enough to get her yellow belt?

'Phoebe concentrates hard, but doesn't look as confident as Chloe.

'But she makes it through. The girls have done well.

'Jed's up next.'

My heart was going boo-boom, boo-boom. I had a bit of nerves.

They went away when I got on the stage.

'His ballet has given him speed and strength, and he looks determined.'

Next, Mikey.

If I don't get it, I won't have won anything out of the whole trip.

That would be upsetting.

'Skateboarder Mikey has found it hard to concentrate.

'For once, he's totally focused.

'Have the kids done enough? Only the Grand Master can decide.'

Hai! Karate!

I was so nervous. My heart was beating.

'It's time for the adults.'

'It was a horrible feeling.'

'Sandra starts well but without Chloe by her side disaster strikes.'

I was so nervous. So, so nervous.

'And she freezes.

'Mid kata, her mind goes blank.'

I made my mistake and it all came crashing down.

Paul.

'Boxer Paul has brute force but the kata requires mental agility too.'

I froze. I don't know why. I knew it off by heart.

'Today, his nerves get the better of him.'

I didn't do too good, to be honest.

'Things are going badly for the adults.

'When Mark steps up, things get worse.

'He starts to perform a routine no-one's ever seen before.

'With only one more adult to go...

'..the pressure is on Joe.

'Can he stop this being a complete embarrassment for the adults?

'He puts in a good effort,

'but only Sensei can decide if he deserves a yellow belt.'

Hai! Karate!

My performance weren't perfect. Phoebe did better than me.

-Well done, Phoebs.

-Eugh!

-You were awesome.

-I did my best. I know you did, too.

Chloe did excellent. She did fantastically well.

She was spot-on in every element.

-I made a few mistakes but I did my best.

-I said hai at the wrong time.

It was intense.

We're in the hands of the Sensei. I've let him down again.

-No, you ain't.

-I don't know what happened with me old kata.

'It's time for the third and final test, the shiko dachi challenge,

'which will test the group's fighting spirit.

'When the families first did this stance, Chloe quit.'

I can't be bothered. Hurts too much.

'The others weren't much better. Will training have improved their stamina?'

GIVES COMMAND IN JAPANESE

'First up, the kids.

'Mikey's the first to show signs of pain.

'Jed's legs start shaking, but he stands firm.

'Chloe and Phoebe are focused.

'As time ticks on, the stance gets harder to hold.

'They all begin to struggle.

'Sensei needs to see their fighting spirit.

'No-one has given up so far, but can they hang on till the end?'

Stop.

'It's time for the adults.

'Do they have the willpower to endure this challenge?

'Joe zones straight in,

'but Mark's already broken into a sweat.

'This is tough, and Paul is feeling the burn.

'It's not long before even Joe looks like he's in pain.

Stop. That's the end of the grading. Now we'll discuss the results.

'The Grand Master must now decide who will get their yellow belts

'and who will go home empty handed.'

I didn't think it would be that hard. I don't know what happened.

You were one of the best out the adults.

-I didn't do myself justice.

-You done good.

-MARK:

-My legs are killing me.

I can hardly bend them. That was very long. Very long.

SPEAK IN JAPANESE

'I think my mum did well.'

She did forget the very end bit, which she's practised so many times.

Chloe will have a yellow belt. I won't have a yellow belt.

-JOE:

-Desperate to go to the championships.

-After suffering so much pain.

-Yeah.

-It was very painful to do that.

BRENT: The results to your grading. Chloe.

You were technically strong, but your spirit's still weak.

SPEAKS IN JAPANESE

Pass.

Sandra, your fighting spirit was weak and you made too many mistakes.

Fail.

Phoebe, all around, you were good and you showed good fighting spirit.

Pass.

APPLAUSE

Joe, you are powerful, and you showed a strong fighting spirit.

Pass.

Jed, you were very strong and very powerful. Sensei was surprised.

Pass.

Paul, with a little more confidence, you would have got there.

Unfortunately, you're not ready yet to represent Sensei.

Fail.

Mikey, you were the lowest in the shiko dachi

and showed the most fighting spirit, Sensei was impressed.

Pass.

Mark, you made too many mistakes. Fail.

SENSEI SPEAKS IN JAPANESE

'The grading's over.

'It's been pretty embarrassing for the parents, but thoughts turn to tomorrow's tournament.'

Brilliant for me. Quite sad for Dad.

-Cos he failed.

-I'm all right, Mikey. It's absolutely fantastic for you.

Today's been very emotional, played on the old heart strings.

He's done really well.

JED: We're going to get your yellow belt.

I'm...

Good boy.

We're looking forward to tomorrow for the kids. And Joe.

I'm proud of myself. I done the kata pretty well.

The basic training, I think I done really well on that.

Congratulations, Joe!

'We'll try not to let Sensei down.'

He's put his trust in us.

I'm going to do it for everyone else as well.

"The world famous brand from the birthplace of karate. Shureido."

Fantastic, Mikey. Fantastic.

'Next time on Hai! Karate, Journey To Japan,

'it's the World Karate Tournament.'

Try your best. Try!

'Jed's having second thoughts.'

I don't want to do it cos we both didn't get in.

It won't have the same feeling.

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