Understanding Karate-do

Karate is practised in all parts of the world. The world-wide popularity can be found  in the powerful and dynamic elements of Karate-Do, and also in the combination of physical and mental discipline of the art of self-defence, which requires a healthy body, sound spirit and refined character. Many of us might be attracted by the beauty and the exciting body movements while practising the art of karate.  

Karate-Do might be considered as the most ideal form of physical exercise, not only because the limbs and the movements of the body are systematically taxed, but also of the exercising of the muscles, which are not normally utilized.

Karate-Do is an empty-handed technique, developed  with the power of one's own body. The basic movements can be developed to a level, at which the enemy can be controlled by a demonstration of strength similar to using  weapons. The beauty of the essential techniques are demonstrated while practising " kata "(forms) fixed exercises, which the karate-ka performs with rhythm and timing. The combinations include, jumping, balancing, backward, sideways and forward movements, all performed at various degrees of speed.

In free sparring(jiu-kumite), the offensive and defensive techniques, such as striking and kicking with simultaneous block-attack combinations, are performed with great speed and timing, requiring  strong coordination of the athlete.

Karate-Do as an art of self defence and a form of physical exercise which has recently become a competitive sport. However, the karate contests are conducted under very strict fixed rules and regulations, because of the physical danger. A good fighting spirit of the karate-ka, possession of controlled power, techniques, fair judgment of the referee, and the sensitive reaction of the spectators create the excitement of a karate competition.

Karate may be practiced by  both genders of all ages.

Karate is one of the best methods of  coordinating  physical development and mental discipline. It allows one to exercise all major muscle groups, while developing co-ordination, strength and agility.

Kimeru also seeks to develop a mental Karate attitude that assists in the development and growth of many character building attributes for the karate-ka. Respect, etiquette, sincerity, effort and self control being a few of the attributes. Kimeru’s ultimate goal is not solely for physical development, but to seek and encourage spiritual and psychological well being, by the way of  utilizing a sound healthy body.

In Karate we say, "Do what is right". One will eventually understand the feeling and become a real winner in karate and life. The urge to win is human nature... but if one desires this too much, one will become unbalanced. When one loses balance, one also loses understanding. Once you lose judgment, you start to lose movement. Therefore, one requires balance in all aspects of one’s life.

While learning the concepts of karate, one learns many things about oneself. The feeling of strength and weakness. As one trains, one gains the experience that will give one skills and improved judgment. We must all learn to live in peace and harmony with our environment, ourselves and others.

At our dojo we train to live as a family and in harmony.

Develop karate-do based on its history and tradition study and practice karate strictly and correctly focus all possible strength into each movement of the kata

Study kumite to acquire maai - not for the sport of karate

Study the use of the makiwara from every angle in order to develop atemi (concentrated destructive power)

To concentrate on kata to find the true essence of karate do

To challenge one's self aggression to others and assist ourselves to develop

Shotokan Nijukun

GICHIN FUNAKOSHI founder of Shotokan Karate

Karate is not only dojo training. Don't forget that Karate begins with a bow and ends with a bow. In Karate, never attack first. One who practices Karate must follow the way of justice First you must know yourself. Then you can know others. Spiritual development is paramount; technical skills are merely means to the end. You must release your mind Misfortune comes out of laziness. Karate is a lifelong training. Put Karate into everything you do. Karate is like hot water. If you do not give heat constantly it will again become cold. Do not think you have to win. Think that you do not have to lose. Victory depends on your ability to tell vulnerable points from invulnerable ones. Move according to your opponent. Consider your opponent's hands and legs as you would sharp swords. When you leave home, think that millions of opponents are waiting for you. Ready position for beginners and natural position for advanced students. Kata is one thing. Engaging in a real fight is another. Do not forget (1)strength and weakness of power, (2)expansion and contraction of the body, (3)slowness and speed of techniques. Devise at all times.