Karate may be defined as a
weaponless means of self-defense. It consists of dynamic offensive and
defensive techniques using all parts of the body to their maximum advantage.
Karate practice is divided into three
categories:
1. Kihon
(basic blocks, punches, kicks and stances);
2. Kata
(pre-arranged forms simulating combat situations);
3. Kumite
(sparring).
In each
category the beginner is given instruction at the most basic level until the techniques
become spontaneous.
A
beginner’s technical progress in karate is accompanied by physical progress.
Gradually the student becomes involved with the study of more intricate and
difficult kata, and more dynamic forms of kumite.
As the
student approaches black belt level, technique, stamina, speed and coordination
become natural as a result of strong practice. It is at this stage that the
serious student discovers that the study of karate has only just begun. The
object of true karate practice is the perfection of oneself through the
perfection of the art.
Karate as self-defense is one of
the most dynamic of all the martial arts. The trained karate practitioner is
able to coordinate the mind and body perfectly, thereby allowing tremendous
physical power to be unleashed at will. Therefore, it is not the possession of
great physical strength that makes a strong karate practitioner; rather it is
the ability to coordinate mind and body. Upon developing this ability, even the
smallest person finds that he has within himself the power to deliver a
devastating blow to any would-be attacker.
The values of Karate to people
in modern society are numerous. In our everyday lives we often forget the value
of exercise to both our physical and mental health. The practice of karate
tones the body, develops coordination, quickens reflexes, and builds stamina.
Also, the
serious practice of karate develops composure, a clearer thought process,
deeper insight into one’s mental capabilities, and more self-confidence. In this,
karate is not an end, but a means to an end. Karate encourages proficiency and
the keen coordination of mind and body. It is an activity in which advancing
age is not a hindrance.
Our Heritage
Although
the ancient origins of karate are extremely vague, we do know that about 1400
years ago while teaching at the Shaolin Temple in China, Daruma Daishi used techniques basic to karate. Later these
techniques developed into fighting forms known as Shaolin Boxing.
In the 16th
century, Shaolin Boxng found its way to Okinawa from China. It combined with
native Okinawan techniques to develop into several Okinawan styles.
In 1922,
having mastered two major styles in Okinawa, Master Gichin Funakoshi, then president of Okinawa Association of the
Spirit of Martial Arts, was chosen to demonstrate karate at the first National
Athletic Exhibition in Tokyo. This led to the introduction of the ancient
martial art to the rest of Japan. At the urging of friends and officials, he
remained in Tokyo to teach.
In 1955, Tsutomu Ohshima, one of Master
Funakoshi’s last direct pupils (1948-1953, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan),
came to the United States. That same year he organized the Southern California
Karate Association, which has grown over the years to become a national non-profit
organization, Shotokan Karate of America, Inc. (SKA), with affiliations world
wide.
Each of
the black belt instructors at La Habra Dojo received their rank directly from
(or had it recognized by) Mr. Ohshima, completing the direct line from the origin
of Karate to you. This direct line assures you of the highest level of
instruction.
Beginning Karate
Beginners
are always welcome. Regardless of your age, sex, or current physical condition,
you can begin karate practice and enjoy it.
Through
serious martial arts practice, we can learn to face ourselves strictly and show
our best spirit in all situations.
"Originally
this was the most important thing about martial arts--to reach a higher level,
to become a strong human being. Strong doesn't mean big arms. It means who can
be a more strict human being with himself. That is the ideal of martial
arts." – Tsutomu Ohshima.
