Report on Waterfall Training Saturday 4th January 2003 
by
Simon Lawrence

We met, as usual, at the ‘Slaughtered’ Lamb Inn in Penderyn to the now familiar freezing cold weather and bemused stares of local residents. As soon as we had changed we saw the first flakes of snow falling and knew we were in for a tough time. Students from Bury St Edmunds, Bishops Stortford and Cardiff had gathered for the traditional start to the Kyokushin year and, as soon as pleasantries had been exchanged, we were off. 
Due to recent rain the going was fairly soggy with Sensei Bufton’s son losing his wellies more than once. A quick hike eventually brought us to the top of the gorge and, once down the treacherous steps, we were greeted by the fearsome Scwd-yr-Eira falls. Rain had swollen the waterfall and the torrent and roar of the water was something to behold! Under the glances and camera lenses of some hikers who had camped on the other side of the pool, we stripped off and made our way around the back of the waterfall to the ledge on the opposite side. Sheets of water like ice cold needles jabbed at us as we precariously made our way barefoot around the back. Once lined up in grade order, we performed various kihon techniques including Chudan/Jodan Tsuki, Jodan Uke, Hiza/Mae Geri and then filtered back for the big one. 
Senior grades soon learned the privilege of rank, as we had to wait till last before our turn came. The spray coming from the falls was incredible and many senpais found themselves inhaling icy water whilst lower grades took their turn under the falls. In twos we moved to the rocky outcrop under the main curtain of water to punch Chudan Tsuki to Sensei Bufton’s count. Many students have compared this experience to being hit on the head repeatedly with a freezing lump hammer – this is a fairly accurate description of the sensation. The pressure of the falling water forces your head down while the extreme cold numbs your mind. Trying to keep count is impossible (you find yourself unable to form words after about 10) – the best way through it is to ki-ai as loud as you can and punch the water like you want to break it. Senseis Mac and Bufton went forward last of all and completed the most number of punches before joining the rest of us who were rapidly getting changed. 
The feeling as you come out of the water is indescribable. The sensation of having achieved something huge is fantastic – you also find that, once out of the water, you are no longer cold! The hikers from the opposite side of the pool had come around the back of the falls (dressed in all-weather boots, waterproofs and thermals, naturally) in order to express their admiration. 
Myself and the other Bury St Edmunds karateka found this an intense, enjoyable and thoroughly rewarding experience and would recommend it as a must to anyone who has not been baptised. The determination and strength of character required to face up to and go through with the waterfall experience is typical of the Kyokushin spirit and, once installed back in the pub, there were many smiling faces. This remains the best way for any student to prepare for the rigors of the Kyokushin year ahead. OSU!