Understanding the meaning behind kata is valuable for any karate practitioner wishing to improve their training. Practicing kata is an integral and vital part of our karate training. But to truly understand its purpose and meaning, we need take a deeper look at not only its complex history but also its many benefits. Regularly practicing…
The heart of bushido was designed to provide a set of principles, values, and guidelines that govern the behaviour and actions of warriors. Serving as a moral compass or a code of conduct, helping warriors to maintain discipline, honour, and integrity in their roles as protectors or even now martial artists. The specific contents of…
Any traditional martial artist could easily distinguish the difference between a mcdojo vs authentic dojo . However if you are someone who may just be starting their journey, this is where you might get caught without the proper guidance. Could you imagine training for years only to find out you were actually training in a…
Learn the power of combining meditation and martial arts. In order to reach your full potential as a martial arts practitioner, one of the important skills you need as you embark on this journey is training your mind. Unfortunately some dojo’s don’t focus on this essential knowledge. One of the many ways to accomplish this…
What is martial arts tips 101? Recently I started to think back over my time that I first began my martial arts journey, starting when I was a teenager. Just like a lot of inexperienced Martial Artists out there, I relied solely on my dojo and instructors for my training and personal growth as a…
Learning dojo etiquette for beginners is one of the important things to learn. When you began your martial arts journey. Each and every dojo should be treated like a unique place where its practitioners should hold themselves to a higher standard of behavior. Whenever or whatever you martial arts you train in, you should follow…
It’s never too late to start this journey of self discovery. Even as adults we can often feel overwhelmed at the thought starting martial arts. Regardless of how old you are there’s no downside for you to be physically active. In fact health professionals agree, just how important it is for you to maintain your…
What is karate and grappling fusion ? As a well-versed martial artist with a love of both the striking and the grappling arts. Karate , with its vast history and comprehensive approach to self-defence, has long been known for its effective striking techniques and philosophical depth. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and judo for power of joint…
What is staying focused with zanshin really mean ? I have really got inspired over the years by some of the most amazing Japanese philosophies. That are so valuable not only in martial arts but also in life. Recently I delved into the concepts of Kaizen and Mushin. But now let’s take a deeper look…
The art of mushin is the concept commonly known as Zen Buddhism and taught in various martial arts. Such as Kendo (Kenjutsu), Kyudo (Kyujutsu), Judo (Jujutsu), Karate and Aikido. Mushin is a state of mind where pure mental clarity, is achieved by the control of one’s ego or limited self. In karate it commonly taught…
The evolution of karate is quite interesting topic . In a previous post I educated you on shotokan karate history. But now let’s delve even further into the rich history of karate in this dynamic post. From its roots in Okinawa to its global popularity today, learn all about this dynamic martial art. WHAT IS KARATE?…
So what is the philosophy behind bunkai.? This concept is a known Karate technique where kata is deconstructed and studied for its offensive and defensive elements. Let’s say your sensei selected a portion of a kata in order to show its practitioners how this kata element could be used to defend against an attack (straight punch, side kick,…
Going from setback to comeback is important when training in any physical contact sport. Martial Artists are also not immune from getting an injury or two as go through their journey. The combination of techniques and sparring are known skills that can be hard on the muscles, joints and ligaments. This is especially true if…
As a Martial Artist, learning the science behind sparring and how we can improve is what will truly empower a martial artist. I am not talking about kumite (competition sparring ) but more in a self defence concept. It does not matter if you are standing, grappling, big, small, strong or weak. By obtaining and…
What is unleashing the power of kiai in martial arts? This is a common question that seems to pop up everywhere. But know that I think about it, we could ask the same question about tennis players. Screaming and vocalisation play a significant role in various sports. Including martial arts e.g. karate, taekwondo or kung…