Philosophy

“Character is the cornerstone of martial arts training; it is more important than skill, more important than strength, and more important than technique.”

(Approx 1 minute 40 second read) Gichin Funakoshi and many other karate pioneers claim that practicing karate can enhance your character. But does karate truly improve your character? . The martial arts often conjure images of disciplined, respectful masters, practitioners, and students. However, does training automatically translate to good character? The answer is a bit […]

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“Chibariyo”: The Okinawan way of encouragement through perseverance.

(Approx 1 minute 10 second read) The Ryukyu Kingdom, the historical heart of modern-day Okinawa, fostered a unique culture distinct from mainland Japan. . This distinctiveness extends to language, with Okinawan dialects collectively known as Uchinaaguchi. . Many karate practitioners, myself included, appreciate using the Japanese terminology that’s part of our practice. While most practitioners

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“The karate that high school students practice today is not the same karate that was practiced even as recently as ten years ago.”

(2 minute 42 second read) My recent article about ‘bunkai’ exposed a litany of misconceptions in the comments. . The dedication of karate masters over the decades has ensured the transmission of kata. However, their true depth often remains undiscovered. . For many practitioners, karate remains a striking art. Blocking, punching and kicking. So when

“The karate that high school students practice today is not the same karate that was practiced even as recently as ten years ago.” Read More »

The Dojo. Where we inherit the wisdom of those who came before, and in turn, prepare to pass it on to those who follow.

(2 minute read) The door to the dojo swings open with its familiar creak, and a wave of calm washes over you, a place when outside problems just fade away. . Do you still feel that rush of excitement when you step inside? . The answer, for most practitioners I would hope, is a resounding

The Dojo. Where we inherit the wisdom of those who came before, and in turn, prepare to pass it on to those who follow. Read More »

“There is a code of honor and if you don’t respect that code, you should be out of martial arts.”

(1 minute 50 second read) Once again, the concept of respect has reared its ugly head. . Someone left a brief two word comment on one of my articles. I won’t delve into the specifics of the conversation or name the individual involved. . However, in response, I asked several questions to gain clarity on

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Fall seven times, get up eight. Know when the fight is no longer yours to win. Because wisdom lies in choosing the right battles.

(2 minute 25 second read) ‘Knowing when to walk away is wisdom. Being able to is courage.’ This sentiment reflects a profound truth that extends beyond martial arts into the realm of life’s challenges. . In the martial arts, the mantra of never giving up is deeply ingrained in us all from the beginning of

Fall seven times, get up eight. Know when the fight is no longer yours to win. Because wisdom lies in choosing the right battles. Read More »