I spend more time with basic movement rather then Sanchin stance initially, Sanchin stance is a lesson within its self. What I try to do with this stance in compare it with the natural stance of a puncher. Just like concrete after years of curing it becomes stronger and the principle of rooting is explorered.

My main concern with basic training is how it builds upon each other and smooth transition in technique. Basics, Kata and 2 man Bunkia helps explain each movement.

Chudan blocking is explored in slight angling of the body getting off line and snapping down on the arms with the backknuckles shows another method of useage. With this concentration of off line and snap down deflection you don't get stuck with a punuch in the center of your gut.

Relax punching pushing from ground to the fist is drilled and tightening at the end, learning to use most of the body within the punch or kick is what I want. So that it flows.

Line drills are almost certainly a modern innovation coinciding with attempts to popularise karate and its introduction to the Japanese mainland.

Line drills are nonetheless useful - if a tad boring. But then again, the mental discipline / spirit you acquire in overcoming that boredom and any fatigue (eg. doing 2000 mae and mawashi geri in one class - which I've done many times in my career) is invaluable.

I remember thanking my instructor after my first 2000 kick class in 1982...

I agree line drills are modern methods of training large groups it reminds me more of the bayonet training course taught in WWI & II and on.

In Okinawa I was told that the method of training was more informal and private more like a personal/family system rather then the Japanese dojo method.

Karate was usually performed in smaller spaces rather then a court yard or large basketball like gym. With the training going from small Dojo/Sensei's home to school auditorium or court yard the line training method seen near Shuri's walls became popular.