It refers to the proper modulation of force in techniques. Power is focused at the exact moment of impact, the rest of the motion should be economical, relaxed, and efficient. True skill comes from knowing when to be strong, when … Continue reading
水稽古 (Mizu Keiko)
水稽古 (Mizu Keiko), training in water, builds strength through resistance, sharpens technique by slowing every movement, and deepens breathing control while calming the mind. It is a practice that forges both body and spirit. 水稽古は技を鍛え、心を鎮める。Mizu Keiko wa waza o kitae, kokoro … Continue reading
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手刀 (Shuto)
“The hand becomes the sword when spirit guides the strike.”心に導かれし時、手は剣と化す。Kokoro ni michibikareshi toki, te wa ken to kasu.
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正確 (Seikaku)
正確 (Seikaku) Accuracy makes every technique count. すべての技に価値を与えるのは、正確さである。
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Sasae (支え)
Sasae (支え) Sasae means the hand that gives backup, not only for strength but also for continuity and support of the main action. 支え手とは、力を補うだけでなく、主動作の継続と支援を与える手である。
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Seipai (十八)
Seipai (十八) was a kata that Ryuso Kenwa Mabuni used as a teaching tool to explain deeper ideas in Karate.He chose Seipai because it is compact yet holds the core methods of Naha-te. It shows a well-structured set of hand-to-hand techniques … Continue reading
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Kakete 掛手
Kakete receives with softness and controls with firmness. 掛手: 柔を以て受け、剛を以て制す。 (Kakete: jū o motte uke, gō o motte seisu.)
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Ko-uke (Uchi)
This technique uses the back of the bent wrist for both blocking and striking. The hand bends inward, with the pinky and ring fingers folded tightly and the thumb pressing against the middle and ring fingers, forming a strong arch … Continue reading
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Keitai no Hoji (形態の保持)
Keitai no Hoji (形態の保持) means preserving the proper form in kata. It emphasizes correct shape of techniques, accuracy of stances, and upright posture. It is not just keeping the sequence but maintaining the exact form that defines the kata.
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Seigan (正眼)
Seigan (正眼) Seigan means you keep your eyes fixed not on one detail but on the opponent as a whole. Seigan means your gaze should match your techniques. When you strike, block, or turn, your eyes move correctly, not wandering … Continue reading
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The joy of dedicated training in martial arts
This poem captures the essence of Kenwa Mabuni’s discipline and the joy of dedicated training in martial arts. It speaks of letting go of everyday distractions, focusing entirely on the practice, and embracing the journey of self-improvement. The imagery of … Continue reading
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集中 (Shūchū)
集中 (Shūchū) = concentration, focus“Direct your energy with precision”
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Mikazuki Geri
“The crescent kick shows that even a curve can strike straight to the point.”
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Shugyo (修行)
Shugyo (修行) “Karate is not learned in years, it is forged in every moment of shugyo. Train until every stance, strike, and breath becomes the language of your kokoro and spirit.”
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集中 (Shūchū)
集中 (Shūchū) = concentration, focus “Direct your energy with precision”
Mikazuki Geri
“The crescent kick shows that even a curve can strike straight to the point.”
Kunshi no Ken – The Gentleman’s Fist in the Teachings of Kenwa Mabuni
Kenwa Mabuni (1889–1952), founder of Shitō-ryū Karate-dō, taught that Karate must be guided by moral responsibility. One of his core principles was Kunshi no Ken (君子の拳), which means The Fist of a Gentleman. Kunshi no Ken is the link between strength … Continue reading
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