Martial Arts
Why Traditional Okinawan Karate?
In its early development, traditional Okinawan karate was strictly a way to protect one’s self and one’s family, as well as the community. Good traditional schools preserve that tradition so that modern practitioners are well able to do the same.
Read MoreWhat About Adults’ Karate?
When karate first came to America after WWII, it was primarily an activity for adults. The karate kid movie helped usher in the age of karate for children and we are still in that age. But adults’ karate is important and valuable.
Read MoreRequirements for Awesome Karate Instructors
Different karate schools can vary greatly, however there are some basic and universal things required that make awesome karate instructors at any age, regardless of rank.
Read MoreHow to Be a Good Karate Student
Although each dojo is unique, there are many universal ways to be a good karate student. I bring this up because I know a lot of karate students who greatly appreciate being a part of a dojo. Their training has changed their lives and they would like to give back and support their dojo. The same goes for appreciative parents who have children benefiting from karate.
Read MoreKarate Teaches Fitness: A Before and After Portrait
My fitness improved considerably just by going to class and advancing through the ranks. I was consistently challenged, but not too much so. As I became an advanced student, I realized the importance of practicing my moves at home and on my own time.
Read MoreConfidence and Conversations
Before karate, I lacked confidence. I dreaded when people talked with me. If I didn’t know the person well, I felt uncomfortable, even pained by talking with them.
Read MoreKarate Teaches Focus: Here’s How
Karate teaches focus with goals such as belts, stripes, great job tickets, and instruction in goal setting. When students learn to target specific goals, this helps build a focused foundation.
Read MoreWhen is the Best Time to Begin Martial Arts?
he good news is that karate is year-round so you can start at any time. The bad news is karate is year-round so you don’t have an external push to sign up.
Read MoreSymbol for Ryukyu on Karate Book Cover
The name for this symbol for Ryukyu is the mitsudomoe. Mitsudomoe has a literal meaning of “three comma-looking shapes.” The Ryukyu island chain makes up what used to be an independent country called the Ryukyu Kingdom.
Read MoreKempo Fist Symbolism on Book Cover
In karate, the fist is a symbol for the style of kempo. It may look like a punch coming at you and a violent symbol. But there’s more to this fist symbol.
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