(2 minute 26 second read) Do you use the term ‘Osu’ (押忍) in your dojo? . The resonant echo of ‘Osu’ that reverberates through many martial arts dojo, a word far more complex than its two syllables suggest. . This seemingly innocuous term, does it belong in our traditional dojo as a symbol of respect, […]
‘OSU’: a sign of respect or just empty tradition? Read More »
(2 minute and 15 second read) Joining a martial arts school for the first time is an exciting and empowering endeavor for many individuals. The prospect of learning self-defense, perhaps wanting to compete, or just physical fitness, often attracts people to these schools. . However, a significant challenge arises when newcomers lack the knowledge to
(2 minute and 28 second read) Imagine a set of precepts that’s not just about fighting, but about living with honor and respect. That’s ‘Bushido’ (武士道), the “way of the warrior”. . A code forged in the fires of battle, wielding both the noble ideals of chivalry and the harsh realities of violence. . Bushido
(1 minute and 52 second read) Sanchin kata, with its robust stances and focused breathing, embodies the essence of karate’s core principles. . Its testing, however, often veers away from this philosophical foundation, resorting to methods that clash with the true purpose of ‘shime’. . “Shime,” (締め) derived from the verb “shimeru,” implies “to lock,”
(2 minute and 44 second read) Many people who comment on my articles seem to want to reduce real-world scenarios to fighting in a cage, or some form of sport. . Let’s be clear. It isn’t. . If you have to fight someone for your survival, then yes, of course, any form of fighting will
(2 minute and 20 second read) Possibly one of the most famous quotes by Gichin Funakoshi is; “The ultimate aim of karate lies not in victory or defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants.” . So, I would like to pose a question. Does karate improve your character? . The idea
(2 minute and 14 second read) Kata, the cornerstone of traditional martial arts, are intricate archives of combative movements, much more than just a physical solo exercise. They are a living legacy, passed down from teacher to student, generation after generation. . Each kata embodies the accumulated wisdom of past masters, a codified library of
(2 minute and 5 second read) The journey to becoming proficient in any field, especially the martial arts, begins with a fundamental truth: you must first become a great student. . Training and practice isn’t just about passively absorbing information; it’s about taking an active role in your own learning, and being fueled by a
“I am a student, not a master. I am still learning, and I will never stop learning.” Read More »
(2 minute and 16 second read) Things have changed over the years. When I began training in traditional karate, some of the instructors were downright mean. They went out of their way to inflict pain on you, and they made it clear that they were superior to you in every way. . Back then, in
There is NO place for physical punishment or bullying in any form of discipline. Read More »
(2 minute and 7 second read) Everyone aspires for advancement, everyone wants to wrap themselves in another black belt, while others just want to learn more. . Yet, few dare to confront their current limitations, reflected in the mirror of self-evaluation. This is where many karate practitioners and commentators stumble. . In the realm of
(2 minute and 1 second read) Sandra Sanchez, once told that she was too old to compete, stated; “Don’t quit, keep going until you can turn something impossible into a reality”. . Perseverance is an essential quality that fuels success in various aspects of life. The journey of a martial artist is laden with challenges,
“Don’t quit, keep going until you can turn something impossible into a reality”. Read More »
(2 minute and 25 second read) Many martial arts masters and practitioners believe that you cannot truly understand a martial art form without understanding and respecting the country, culture and history that gave rise to it. . Most people join a dojo to learn how to fight and/or defend themselves. But what few students realize
