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Martial Art versus Karate-Do

Shoto's twenty precepts

How often should one train?

Dojo etiquette & terminology

Dojo Rules

What to wear

Testing

Class training

Typical Class

Waza -Techniques

Dojo Kun (guiding principles)

Tit-Bits

Okinawa-Te (Okinawan Hand or Boxing)

Martial Arts Terminology

TIPS 'N TRICKS ! :

Spinning Back Kick

Martial Art versus Karate-Do :

Martial art is a form of specialized fighting. Karate is a Japanese martial art capable of defending
oneself without weapons. The word Kara -meaning empty; Te - meaning hand; therefore empty hand.
Karate by itself is a specialized form of fighting while karate-do is a way of life incorporating karate
training to improve oneself.

Karate-do is one of the many Japanese cultures which originated from bushi-do. It is training to
improve oneself and its aim is to seek perfection of character. It disciplines you to respect and observe
the rules of daily life such as: loyalty, courage, faith, courtesy, affection and simplicity. It is not merely
to seek a victory in a tournament.

Shoto's twenty precepts :

Shoto's Twenty Precepts called "Shoto Niju Kun" are the words of Gichin Funakoshi. As a writer,
Gichin Funakoshi had more to offer than just teaching karate techniques. His real contribution was his
thoughts about life and how karate can contribute to it. the following is the English translation which
probably does not capture all the original thoughts but like Gichin Funakoshi, they should help you
think about karate and how to apply it to your life.
1. Karate-do wa rei ni hajimari, rei ni owaru koto wo wasuruna
Karate-do begins with courtesy and ends with courtesy.

2. Karate ni sente nashi.

There is no first attack in karate.

3. Karate wa gi no tasuke.
Karate is of great assistance to (auxiliary of ) justice.

4. Mazu jiko wo shire, shikoshite tao wo shire.

Know yourself first, and then others.

5. Gijutsu yori shinjutsu.

Spirit first: techniques second.

6. Kokoro wa hanntan koto wo yosu.

Always be ready to release your mind.

7. Wazawai wa getai ne shozu.

Misfortune (accidents) always come out of idleness (negligence).

8. Dojo nomino karate to omou na.

Do not think that karate training is only in the dojo.

9. Karate no shugyo wa issho de aru.

It will take your entire life to learn karate: there is no limit.

10. Arai-yuru mono wo karate-ka seyo, soko ni myo-mi ari.

Put your everyday living into karate and you will find the ideal state of existence (myo).

11. Kartate wa yu no goto shi taezu natsudo wo ataezareba moto no mizu ni kaeru.
If you do not give it heat constantly, it will again become cold water.

12. Katsu kangae wa motsu na makenu kangae wa hitsuyo.

Don't think you have to win; rather think you don't have to lose.

13. Tekki ni yotte tenka seyo.

Victory depends on your ability to distinguish vulnerable points from invulnerable ones.

14. Tattakai wa kyo-jutsu no soju ikan ni ari.

The battle is according to how you maneuver guarded, unguarded Move according to your opponent.

15. Hito no ye ashi wo ken to omoe.

Think of the hands and feet as swords.

16. Danshi mon wo izureba hyakuman no tekki ari.

When you leave home, think you have numerous opponents waiting for you. It is your behaviour that invites
trouble from them.

17. Kamae wa shoshinsha ni ato wa shizentai.

Beginners muster master low stance and posture; natural body position to advance.

18. Kata wa tadashiku jissen wa betsu mono.

Practicing a kata is one thing, and engaging in a real fight is another.

19. Chikara no kyojaku, karada no shinshuku waza no kankyu wo wasaruna.

Do not forget: strength and weakness of power; stretching and contraction of body; and slowness and speed
of techniques. Apply these correctly.

20. Tsune ni shinken kufu seyo.

Always think and devise ways to live the precepts

How often should one train? :

Three classes a week are recommended and training can take place all year round. To achieve your best
you should train on your own as well as in class. Even 10 minutes a day will make a substantial
improvement.
The techniques and principles of karate can also be applied to other everyday activities like sports,
physical work and even in studying.

You can achieve your black belt by only training in class but for karate to become part of your life you
should train on your own and apply your training to everyday activities.

Dojo etiquette & terminology :

Karate is oriental in origin and philosophy and follows a practice of respect to the founders. As well
karate is a truly international activity and the etiquette used in karate forms a common bond around the
world.
Osu This term is used frequently in the dojo and is derived from “Onore Wa Shinobu”, meaning “I will
persevere”. The usage of the term is broad and usually indicates an attitude of respect. Examples of
such usage are:
- when first entering or leaving the dojo in conjunction with a standing bow (ritsu-rei) made in the
direction of the “kamiza”,
- at the beginning and ending of a class under the direction of the sempai in conjunction with a kneeling
bow (zarei),
- when answering a question , yes to a question directed to you from the instructor, and
- in a class session in response to a direction given by the instructor, which indicates the class
understood the direction.

Kamiza A prominent feature of the dojo is the kamiza (upper seat) which is easily recognized by the
traditional pictures of the founders. this is the focal point to which zarei is directed at the beginning and
end of the class.

Ritsu-rei standing bow - performed when entering or leaving the dojo, before and after partner practice
and when first greeting the dojo sensei

Sempai students ranked higher than you should be called sempai

Sensei A literal translation is teacher; however, it is a term that is usually reserved for the chief
instructor of a dojo, holding dan rank, or visiting instructors from other schools holding the rank of 4th
dan or higher.

Zarei kneeling bow - performed under the direction of the sempai at the beginning and end of the class.

Dojo Rules :
The following rules should be followed in the dojo

1. uniforms must be kept clean

2. finger & toe nails should be kept short
3. no jewelry should be worn during class
4. no leaning on walls or laying around the dojo no chewing
gum or candy during class
6. always bow when entering or leaving the dojo
7. bow to sensei when you first come to class
8. answer 'osu' when acknowledging an instructors direction
in class
9. stand straight and listen attentively when the instructors
speak
10. there should be minimal talking during class times
11. arrive 10-15 minutes before class, let sensei know if
you have to arrive late
12. chief instructor for the dojo should be called sensei
13. all black belts should be called sempai always leave
your belongings neat and in order in the dojo

What to wear :
White gis are the normal outfit worn but beginners can wear any comfortable clothes that will not
restrict movement or allow hands or feet to catch and be injured. Both the gi and the belt have purpose
in training. The belt if tied properly will help the student understand when the middle is tightened to
provide focus and perform techniques. As well the ends of the belt will react to movement such as
rotation or snap of the hip providing physical indication of technique. The gi allows the student to hear
and feel the snap of technique as well the keeping of elbows close to body and the scissors action of the
legs. A white gi worn as it is simple and does not distract from the class.
Nothing is worn on the feet to allow students to learn to grip the floor for control.

Necklaces and other jewelry are not worn as they may cause injury. Medical alert bracelets should be
taped tight to the wrist if they must be worn.

Testing :
Testing is usually available every three months. If a student practices three items a week they should be
ready to test for the next level. Always check with your sensei if you are ready. Students should train on
their own as well, a few minutes every day goes a long way.

Class training :
Class training usually consists of:
Warm up - a number of stretches and muscle warming exercises are done to prevent injury - some
flexibility is gained from these exercises but students should stretch every day on their own to improve
flexibility
Basic (kihon) training - involves practicing kicks, punches, blocks and stances usually performed in
lines so the instructor can easily notice any corrections that need to be suggested - the basics can be
practiced with or without partners

Kata - sequence of moves that represent fighting imaginary opponents. A new kata is learned with each
new belt.

Kumite (fighting) - practiced with a partner and there are four types used in class
Sanbon kumite (three step) is used for beginners to allow control while students are learning the
techniques and distance
Ippon Kumite (one step) is for orange belts and up - a single attack is performed with the other person
blocking and counter attacking
Jiyu ippon kumite (semi-free sparring) for brown belts testing for shodan, a single attack is announced
but now the partners move until distance is right for the attack.
Jiyu kumite (free sparring) for black belts, no attack called, control is very important, this is not used
for junior students, used in tournaments and testing of black belts.

Typical Class :
Students should arrive 10 - 15 minutes early, this will allow time to practice and get individual help.
Class is started by the sensei calling “shugo” Japanese for come together. All students line up according
to rank (belt colour) usually in two lines centered to and facing the picture of the Masters and Dojo kun
- “kamiza” .

Opening Exercises - Sensei kneels, Senior student then leads class through:
“seiza” all students kneel
“mukso” close your eyes and take deep breathes to forget about other things and be ready for class
“muksoyame” open eyes (stop meditating)
“shomen-ni rei” bow to the front kamiza - respect for the founders
“sensei-ni rei” bow to the instructor
sensei selects student to lead warm up

Warm up - a number of stretches and muscle warming exercises are done to prevent injury - some
flexibility is gained from these exercises but students should stretch every day on their own to improve

Main training can usually include some basics, kumite and kata practice. The class can focus on
specific techniques or be a general class with a wide variety of techniques practiced. It can even be a
class of strictly kata practice. When training in class one should always work to do the best technique
possible. Good habits of using the strongest and

quickest technique are needed to be able to defend oneself outside the dojo. A habit of not trying hard in
class could effect your ability to defend yourself.

Warm down - a period is allowed for students to stretch muscles that have been worked the most in
class. This helps prevent stiffness the next day. As well, when the body is very warm it is a good time to
stretch and improve flexibility. Some times the warm down is lead by the sensei or a senior student.

Closing Exercises same as opening up to “Mukso” then,

“Dojo Kun” sempai leads class in repeating the dojo kun could be said in English or Japanese
(beginner class uses English)
“shomen-ni rei” bow to the front kamiza - respect for the founders
“sensei-ni rei” bow to the instructor
“sempai-ni rei” bow to senior student(s)

- the instructor stands up first then the sempai dismisses the class and all stand up together.

Group training In class helps each other by sharing the spirit and excitement of training . For many
individuals it is hard to always practice at top level but in a class the spirit of others can help you try
your best. This spirit is very important to training.

Waza -Techniques :

Blocks : Punches :
uke age -uke rising block zuki choku-zuki straight punch
uchi -uke inside block oi-zuki lunge (stepping) punch
soto-uke outside block gyaku-zuki reverse punch
gedan-barai downward block kage-zuki hook punch
shuto-uke knife hand block yama-zuki U- punch
sanbon-zuki triple punch
Kicks : Stances dachi :
geri mae geri keage front snap kick hachiji dachi natural stance
yoko kekomi geri side thrust kick heisoku dachi attention stance
yoko keage geri side snap kick zenkutsu dachi front stance
mawashi geri roundhouse kick kokutsu dachi back stance
ushiro kekomi geri back thrust kick kiba dachi side stance
fudo dachi rooted stance
kosa dachi closed stance
neko ashi dachi cat leg stance
hangetsu dachi half-moon stance
sanchin dachi hour glass stance
shizentai natural position
Miscellaneous
uraken uchi back fist strike
empi uchi elbow strike
nukite spear hand
jodan face level
chudan middle level
gedan lower level
ashi-barai leg sweep
zanshi state of calmness

Dojo Kun :
(Guiding principles of Karate (Japanese pronunciation)

Seek perfection of character

Hitotsu! Jinkaku kansei ni tsutomeru koto

Be faithful
Hitotsu! Makoto no michi o mamoru koto

Endeavor to excel
Hitotsu! Do ryoku no seishin o yashinau koto

Respect others
Hitotsu! Rei gi o omonzuru koto

Refrain from violent behaviour

Hitotsu! Kekki no yu o imashimuru koto

Tit-Bits :
Mohammed Ali’s punch measured 900 pounds per square inch and a Japaneese Karate master's measured
2,500 pounds per square inch !

The thrust kick of a highly trained karate-ka was measured at producing the force equal to the weight of a
Toyota Corolla

A Second degree black belts have been timed to punch (0.15 sec) faster than the blink of an eye (0.40 sec) !

TIPS 'N TRICKS ! :

SPINNING BACK KICK :

This kick is basically thrown just like a side kick, only difference being, there is a half spin
before the kick, instead of a step up. So chances are, you'll see some copying and pasting
here from the side kick description :-). The kick itself isn't necessarily hard to execute, but it is
difficult to get to a point where you can do it quickly, and hit it right on target each time. It's
also a bit hard to balance. But, as with everything, practice makes perfect.

Heres how to do it:

** Due to difficulty in explaining directions to turn, I have wrote this description for kicking with
your right leg. If you want to do it with your left, just reverse everything, and replace right with
left, etc.**

1) Start out with your right leg as the back leg, and in a fighting position.

2) Always remember to turn with your head. You always want to see your target before you hit
it. So, that said, turn counter clockwise (Towards your back leg), and look over your right
shoulder to the direction that you are kicking. Turn your hands as well, so they are in the
direction of the kick. At this point, your feet are in the same position... they haven't moved.
This is all setting up for the kick. This will give you better accuracy. As you do this kick more
and more, this part will be speeded up dramatically, so you are only looking for a fraction of a
second before executing the kick itself.

3) With your legs (which at this point will probably be crossed from turning your torso so
much), lift your right leg to a chambered position. Remember to bring your knee up nice and
tight. The higher you lift your knee, the higher you will be able to kick.

4) With your kicking leg in it's chambered position, extend it out completely, so that your leg is
not bent. Now, at this point, there are some VERY important concepts that you should be
aware of in order for you to be able to get your back kick vertical. First, referring to #1 of the
diagram, make sure that the heel of your supporting leg is pointing towards your kick. This is
rather hard to balance, but get into the habit of having it like that, because otherwise your hips
will not get into correct positioning. This will also cause a great stretch in your hamstring, so
make sure that you don't force it. Take this kick slowly. Hamstrings take forever to heal. Next,
as you can see with #2 on the diagram, make sure that the heel of your kicking leg, your hip,
and your shoulder are all in a straight line. By not doing this, you throw your energy in a
different direction, and you also will not build the back/butt muscles necessary to hold the leg
up there. Also, make sure that you turn the toes of the foot of the kicking leg towards the
ground and your heel towards the sky. This makes your kick look so much more defined and
strong. Now, another difference from the stepping side kick and the back kick is, the head
positioning. When throwing a spinning back kick, while it's not recommended, it is still
considered a back kick by keeping your head facing the rear, or to the side. (I know it's not
shown in the diagram, cuz this isn't actually a back kick, but it is the same basic formation
so...).

4) Bring your leg back into the chambered position.

5) Set the kicking leg down in front of you.

** Tips on doing this kick **

* Make sure you have very good splits and strattles if you are expecting to have a vertical
kick. You further down you can get into a strattle and split, the higher you are capable of
kicking, so stretch stretch stretch.

* Constantly practice lifting your leg up into it's chambered position, and slowly extending your
side kick out. The more you do this, the higher you'll be able to kick, because you build the
hip/butt muscles more and more every time you do this. So every second you get in a day to
do this, do it!

* Remember to always focus on keeping the heel of your supporting leg turned, the toes of
your kicking leg turned to the floor, your heel, hip, and shoulder are all in alignment, and that
your head should always be looking at the kick.

* MAKE SURE that you don't overstretch the hamstring of the supporting leg. Believe me, I
am speaking from experience. If you overstretch and tear that muscle, it takes WEEKS to
heal, and you can hardly kick at all with that leg. So do yourself a favor. Stretch it out slowly
and gradually. Don't expect to get vertical side kicks in one night.

** Exercises **

* Rest your side up against a wall, and have a partner lift your leg up to it's maximum side kick
position. This will stretch out the necessary muscles for your kick, but more importantly, give
you a chance to focus on getting your legs turned properly, and everything in alignment
without having to necessarily worry about holding your kick up.

* Put your side kick on a partners shoulder and have them gradually back up so your legs
become more and more into a strattled position. Focus on keeping your weight on your back
leg. This will help stretch out your hamstrings, as well as other leg muscles, for nice vertical
kicks. Be sure not to take this one too quickly. **See David Douglas's first video tape "Applied
Power In Kicking" for a demonstration of this exercise. Look for it at
http://www.blacknbluevideo.com**

* Put your foot up against a wall, at a height where you get a pretty good stretch. Normally a
little less than head level should do, and slowly walk your supporting leg backwards. As you
move the supporting leg further back, you can also move the foot that is on the wall slowly up.
This will cause basically the same kind of stretch that the previous exercise did, only you don't
need a partner for this one. Again, focus on keeping your weight on the supporting leg.

* Sit on the floor with your legs in a strattle position. This isn't a full strattle but make sure that
your legs somewhat form a V. Now, have a partner sit directly across from you, and place their
feet on the insides of your leg, at about your ankles. Then, have them reach across, and grab
your hands, and slowly pull you foreward, towards them, to the ground. This will really give
you a nice stretch in your hamstrings and thighs. Just tell them to release when the stretch
becomes too intense.

Q If an attacker gets pass all your hand and leg defences, and strikes your body, how would you
respond?

Answer 1
I would do any one of the following :

move back a step to avoid the strike

rotate my waist to deflect the attack
curve in the body to "swallow" the attack
move my body forward to press against his striking hand, thereby preventing the implementing of the
strike and simultaneously strike him with my head
lean back sideway and strike him with a side kick -- the leaning back enables me to avoid his attack
pull back one elbow to deflect the strike and simultaneously strike him from a side or from behind with
my forearm or hand
jump up and strike him with my knee -- the jumping itself enables me to avoid his strike
move aside and strike his ribs with my shin
lean back frontally as if being hit (but not actually) and tap his groin with the insep of my foot, using a
pattern called "Lie on Sea and Observe the Sky"
Turn around, lean forward and tap his groin with the sole of my foot, using a pattern called "Dragonfly
Dots Water".

Q How would a Taijiquan exponent defend against a knee attack from a Muai Thai fighter?

A Muai Thai fighter is not only fast and powerful but also tricky. Unlike in some martial arts like karate
and taekwondo where almost every attack is "real", which makes defence easier, a Muai Thai fighter
normally confuses his opponent with feign moves, which make defence more difficult.

The knee attack is one of the most feared techniques in the Muai Thai repertoire, partly because it is
exceedingly damaging (one knee strike is enough to break some ribs), and partly because many martial
artists simply do not know how to counter it.

As the knee trike is a close-quarter attack, a Muai Thai fighter almost never starts with it. He usually
makes some preliminary feign attacks to get close to the opponent, then pulls the oppoent down by his
neck and simultanaeously strike up his knee.

One useful tactic is as follows. Goh Kok Hin, posing as a Muai Thai fighter, moves in with a thrust
punch. Using typical Taijiquan techniques I respond with "peng" or "ward off", as shown above.

Ass soon as I respond, Goh moves forward, holds my neck and pulls me downward, and simultaneously
strikes me with his knee. A well trained Muai Thai fighter can execute such an attack so fast that many
people would be taken by surprise, and know not what to do.

One effective counter is as follows. Instead of moving back, I move forward slightly with my back leg
and simultaneously raise my left knee against the inner side of his attacking upper leg. At the same time
I move my both upper arms upwards against Goh's elbows to dislodge his hold on my neck, as well as
unbalancing him. My pattern is known in Taijiquan as "Golden Cockerel Stands Solitarily".

It is important that I know and have practised many times the defence technique beforehand. As soon as
my opponent executes a knee strike, which is known in Shaolin Kungfu as "Jade Girl Kicks Shuttle", I
respond with "Golden Cockerel Stands Solitarily".

If someone has no methodical preparation, such as in pre-arranged sparring, but starts to think of what
to do only when a knee strike is coming fast, he would have his ribs broken before he fully realizes
what has happened. This is one example, and one major reason, why those whose combat training is
nothing but free sparring right from the start, are caught helpless when a Muai Thai fighter strikes them
ferociously with their knees.

Okinawa-Te (Okinawan Hand or Boxing):

Okinawa-Te (Okinawan Hand or Boxing) as a system is best described as a classical martial art of old
Okinawa. It is distinctly different from what is now known as Okinawan karate, using kata which are
more readily identifiably of Chinese origin, but at the same time it's history, tradition and many of its
techniques is of definitely Okinawan heritage. The Okinawa-Te practitioner is caught between two
worlds and partakes of elements of both. On the one hand, hard and fast, on the other hand deceptive
and misleading. Okinawa-Te is an art of contrasts.

There are, however, a number of differences between Okinawa-Te and Karate.

In Okinawa-Te, the basic upward block is square, running parallel to the floor and is held quite close to
the body in contrast to the basic extended 45 degree high block commonly found in other styles,
however, both blocks are taught but in a more general and extreme viewpoints. The squared block
offers a different type of block with the greatest area for blocking. All blocks are built from the basic 4
directions: up, out, in, down. Then there are 5 levels of blocking, which are: area, extended, point, no-
block, and trapping. Another difference can be found in the kata. Okinawa-Te uses another body of kata
rather than the traditional Sanchin, Tensho, etc. pattern. The patterns most styles use to teach kata are
not included in the Okinawa-Te system. This devises a more free flowing artist rather than the strict
rules of most kata such as: turning here ending here "I" patterns or any regular pattern. These would
generate a less programmed warrior. Okinawa-te system believes that programming the body is the key
to effective coordination of technique allowing the practitioner the ability to know how to deliver any
technique from any position. The Okinawa-Te kata is longer and physically more demanding, deriving
from the Southern Long Fist Kung Fu tradition. A great deal of power is derived from the leg and hip
strength gained by the practice of kata.

The kata of Okinawa-Te can be generally divided into three categories.

The first of these categories is the basic kata, comprising of 12 short forms and the two long kata, the
Sword and Hammer, and the Falling Leaf. The Sword and Hammer teaches the use of a firm base to
deliver techniques and develops the legs and waist as well as hip rotation power generally this is taught
as a hard kata with a few soft techniques. The Falling Leaf is a less grounded kata, using a lot of body
shifting and changing the level of balance. There are a number of jumps and turns which require the
practitioner to instantly change from a deep rooted stance to an aerial maneuver, a skill not often taught
in other systems which allows an adept to ride out a kick by allowing himself to be knocked back with
little damage. The Okinawa-Te kata uses the Wide Horse Riding Stance to a large extent, as an example
almost 90% of the Sword and Hammer is delivered from that stance. This stances trains the student to
optimize the use of the hips when performing a technique, be it a kick or a punch. As a lot of Okinawa-
Te deals with close in fighting. The ability to deliver a short, hard blow is of great importance.

The second category is the various weapon forms taught as part of the curriculum. These weapons
include the short stick or club, which is called the Yawara in Okinawa-Te, the Sai, the Bo, Kama,
Nunchaku, and the Tonfa. The degree with which these weapons are taught vary from dojo to dojo with
some teaching only the kata while others teach also applications, formal drill (Waza) and in some cases
sparring. Okinawa-Te introduces weaponry with the Yawara at about Green Belt level (3rd Kyu), which
may be earlier than most traditional systems, but an Okinawa-Te Green Belt will have been practicing
an average of 3 years and weapons were an integral part of the old Okinawan methods.

The third stage of training harks right back to our Chinese roots. Okinawa-Te has within its system a
number of animal kata based on the traditional 5 animals of kung fu, but with one exception-the Dragon
has been replaced with the Bear. Each of the animal kata, which are taught at Black Belt level,
emphasize a particular characteristic of the animal. The Bear for instance is not a particularly swift kata,
but it is powerful and comprises a number of grappling, clawing and sweeping techniques. The Tiger on
the other hand is fast and uses a lot of penetrating hand techniques and teaches the practitioner to close
the gap and overwhelm the victim using his hands then suddenly surprise him with a quick kick or two.
These kata are taught to people according to their body type. A 120 pound woman will not be taught the
Bear kata first, and likewise a 250 pound man will not be taught the Monkey kata. As may be surmised
training at Black Belt level is somewhat personalized and is supervised by the head instructor within the
normal context of training within the dojo.

Despite these differences much of what is found in Okinawan karate is also to be seen in Okinawa-Te.
Stances are narrower and higher and there is more inclusion of circular techniques than are found in
traditional Japanese karate. There is also emphasis placed on understanding the applications (bunkai) of
kata, weaponry, and grappling. Development of technique goes beyond the basic block, kick and
punch.

Other elements of Okinawa-Te training include basic two person training sets:
Grab attacks, which are responses to people who are trying to initiate grappling, waza, which are
roughly analogous to 1 or 3 step sparring, a core of self defense techniques, grappling escapes,
apprehending techniques, and a series of Knife and Stick defenses.

Training also has a large emphasis on sparring and also kata application as self defense. Techniques
taught as exercises in class are also taught as techniques to be used in sparring. Often in many dojo
techniques such as a Palm Heel strike or Spear Hand strike are taught only because it is part of the
curriculum or sometimes in limited 'Self Defense' situations, but with Okinawa Te these techniques are
introduced to, and used in, sparring on a regular basis. In this manner the Okinawa Te practitioner
learns the real combat value and use of many more techniques than the simple punch. An analogy of a
tool box is used; a punch may be the mainstay of most martial arts but a tool box with only a hammer in
it is a very limited tool box indeed-no matter how proficient you are with the hammer. If all you have is
a hammer, everything begins to look like a nail and there are situations when knocking someone down
and dragging them out is simply not appropriate. Therefore the Okinawa-Te student learns a wide
enough variety of techniques to cover most eventualities, but at the same time with out cluttering the
tool box!

The System :
Okinawa-Te belts run White, Yellow, Purple, Blue, Green, 1st Brown, and 2nd Brown. The black belts
are organized with all belts being black until a promotion from black to red happen by inheritance.
There is only one red belt (which is actually blood stain red color more brown than red), the designated
Grandmaster of Okinawa-Te. Unlike most other systems there is no tag or other system to differentiate
the rank of one Sensei to the next. There are no real degrees of black belt because training is
personalized. Titles of rank in Okinawa-Te are "No Frills". The Grandmaster is called "Shihan" and all
other Black Belts are called "Sensei".

Martial Arts Terminology

AIKIDO
Developed from Jiu Jitsu by a Japanese named Ueshiba Morihei and called the Way of Harmony. Using
the attackers own power and movements against him. A true Aikido artist will never harm another
person but will cause the attacker to harm himself. The Bo or Staff and Bokken (wood sword) are often
part of the training. The Main goal of a Master is for the mind and body to live in harmony with all that
exist. ?

ANIMAL OR INSECT STYLES

These styles as Monkey, Bear, Tiger, Praying Mantis, Dragon, Crane and many more are the imitation
of animal movements. Most of these styles are found mostly in the Chines styles but are found in others
arts as well.

BANDO
A Burmese style of Martial arts using grappling and locking techniques. Even though Bando is based
on 12 animals the symbol for this style is a Black Panther.

BERSILAT
A Malaysian style developed from Indonesian martial arts. This style is based on the movements of
animals and is related to Chinese Wushu..

BOKEN
A wooden sword used as a weapon.

BOLAS
A South American weapon with three balls or rocks attached by a rope in a Y shape.

BODHIDHARMA
A Religious teacher said to have traveled to China from India. He settled in a Shaolin temple and is the
person who is credited with the development and spread of Martial arts throughout the world.

BOXERS
In the 1900's in China there was a rebellion and many secret societies of Martial Arts were involved.
The most famous of these was the I-Ho-Chaun or the Society of Righteous and Harmonious Fists. They
achieved a reputation for strength and endurance in there fighting.

BOXING, KICKBOXING, THAI BOXING, SPARRING, KUMITE

A tournament or competition that has a set of rules as to not kill or greatly injure an opponent. With a
referee and judges to score the points and make sure the rules are followed.

BUSHIDO
The code of the Samurai called the Warrior Way. It is a high standard and moral code of loyalty,
obedience and duty.

CAPOEIRA
A Brazilian style of fighting developed in Africa. Looking like a dance or Kata but clearly a lethal
martial arts.

CHOY LEE FUT

Chan Heung founded a style that was named after his two masters Lee Yau-Shan and Choi Fok.
Running straight for an opponent and overcoming him using grabbing, seizing and circular strikes as
hooks and uppercuts.

CHI-GUNG or CHI-KUNG
A special breathing technique developed in China to harness the inner power of the body. One can
direct his chi power to protect himself from even the power of the blade.

CHI POWER
Chi is the power of the energy from within. Turning all your internal power and channeling it to one
purpose. When a blow is given with Chi the damage is done internally.

CHINESE WEAPONS :
Wu Shu Jien is a double edge sword.
Tiger fork is a spear like trident used to kill tigers.
Butterfly knifes are two short and wide knifes.
Bo staff is a long pole from four to six feet long.

CRANE
A Tibetan Lama saw a large ape fighting a crane by a lake. Instead of running away the crane stood his
ground using his wings for balance and his powerful beak as a weapon defeated the large ape. The
crane style was developed from watching the cranes movements.

DIM-MAK
It is widely believed among many Martial Artist that if you struck someone at a certain time and in a
certain way, You would cause a delayed reaction and that person would die at a later time. This is
sometimes referred to as the death touch. Only a few Masters still possess the complete knowledge of
this art and none will teach it to others.

DIT DA JOW
Used to heal wounds, bruises and relieve pain.

EXTERNAL STYLE
This style is known for its physical power, stamina and speed.

GUNG-FU
The Cantonese term for Martial Arts. See Wushu.

HAPKIDO
A Korean art that is a combination of Aikido and Taekwon-do. A Hapkido artist will hold his ground
until attacked then overwhelm him with kicks and punches. There are little forms or Katas in Hapkido
and is strictly for self defense. Known as the way of coordinated power and consisting of three main
principles: No resistance of force, Countering with circular motions and penetration of attackers
defenses.

HARD STYLE
Known for direct strikes and blocks.

HARIMAU
A Indonesian style from Sumatra based on the movements of a tiger.

HSING-I
Created by a Chinese warrior named Yueh Fei in the 12th century. With five basic movements based on
five elements of metal, water, fire, wood, and earth.

HWARANG-DO
Is the art of the Korean warrior divided into four powers and has a different kick for every day of the
year. Mind control, Weapons, Healing and Strength are a major part of this system. The most famous of
these warriors were call the Sul Sa who were considered a one man army by many.

IAI-DO
The Japanese art of sword quick draws. Normally practiced from various sitting and standing positions.

I-CHING
A Chinese book of changes and understanding of life.

ICHIBAN
A Japanese word that is use to describe the highest quality.

INTERNAL STYLE
Using energy (Chi force) and sensitivity.

IRON FAN
This Chinese weapon was a large knife that looked like a fan.

IRON PALM
A lethal practice of conditioning the forearms and palms of the hands to be as hard as steel.

JEET KUNE-DO
The way of the intercepting fist. Bruce Lee developed this style based on speed and no set stances. A
individual is molded to fit his body structure and way of thinking.

JIU JITSU
The gentle art is the grandfather of all Japanese Martial arts and dates back to 1185 A.D. It is based on
dislocating joints or limbs using locks and/or leverage. It was intended for disarmed warriors, so that
they could defend themselves against enemies who were still armed and was the weapon of the Samurai
just as the Sword was.

JUDO
Developed from Jui Jitsu as a sport form. It was developed in 1882 by Professor Jigoro Kano. This
Japanese style is called the gentle art and is based on throwing and taking your attacker down to the
ground then using grappling techniques.

KALARIPAYIT
A high kicking martial arts style from S.India (Kerala State). There are many weapons practiced in this
style, one weapon is a coin wrapped in a silk scarf. Marma-adi is a advanced type of this style with no
exercises or forms.

KALI
A deadly form of Filipino weapons fighting using knifes and sticks in sets or in combinations. When the
U.S. marines occupied the Philippines they had to ware a leather neck protector so that the Filipino
natives didn't cut their necks in battle. In world war II using Kali against a well equipped and trained
army the Filipinos drove out the Japanese .

KAMA
A short sickle use by the farmers of Okinawa to cut their harvest.

KARATE
This is known as empty hand fighting and is a linear style of martial arts. It is designed to meet an
attacker head on and defeat him with hands, feet, elbows and all parts of the body. You deflect the
attack and then over power him with a combination of feet and hand attacks. Karate is also used as a
term to describe all Japanese styles.

KARATE-DO
Many people use the term Karate-Do the term means way of the empty hand and comes from Okinawa.
The first organized karate association in the United States was in Los Angeles in 1955 by Sensei
Oshima. Many Americans founded their own systems based on karate. Karate has only been in the
United States for only 30 Years.

KATANA
A Japanese Samurai sword.

KENDO
The way of the sword and practiced widely in Japan. A Samurai art using armor and a bamboo
sword called a shinai instead of a real one for practice and competition. This style stresses the
improvement of one's spirit and moral conduct.

KEMPO
A Chinese style that uses the feet for balance and the fist as a weapon. This style is the foundation of
Okinawan Karate-do.

KENPO
A style that was developed in the island of Hawaii of the United States by Ed Parker. This style uses a
combination of prearranged defenses and counters to respond to a specific attack. Kenpo means law of
the fist and is a combination of Chinese and Japanese techniques. (see history page for details)

KICKBOXING
A boxing style using punches and kicks also see Boxing

KUBOTAN
A small tanfa like weapon developed by the Japanese, so small that it fits in your pocket.

KUMITE
A fighting tournament also see Boxing.

KUK SOOL WON

The national arts form is a combination of Hapkido and Tae Kwon Do and was formed in 1961. This
form teaches all the traditional weapons of the Korean Royal Court.

KUNDAO
Is an Southeast Asian art developed by the Chinese Farmers and Fishermen to protect themselves from
the Pirates that invaded their villages. Kundao is directly related to the Shaolin Five Animals, Wushu
and the 18 hands of Lo-Han. Kundao is practiced throughout the islands of that area and sometimes
spelled Kuntou, Kuntau, Kuntaw, Kuntao. This is a street fighting style with short steps, inside
grappling and pressure point techniques.

KUNG-FU
The Western term for Chinese Martial Arts. See Wushu.

KUNTAU
A Southeast Asian and European form of Kundao. The mix of European street fighting techniques and
Weapons makes this style very effective. (see history page for details)

KUNTAO
A Filipino form of Kundao originating in Indonesia by the Chinese. Mixed with Filipino weapons and
jungle fighting it is one of the most lethal forms of self defense.

KUSARIGANA
A Japanese weapon with a wooden handle and a knife attached with a chain.

KWAN-DO
This Chinese weapon is a long sword on the end of a long staff. A Chinese general named Kwan Yu
invented this weapon.

KYOKUSHINKAI
A style developed by Masutatsu Oyama who was born in Korea when it was occupied by Japan, So the
style is considered Japanese. Mas Oyama went off to the mountains and studied animals to develop this
style but was not taken seriously until he fought a bull to the death to prove his style. Mas Oyamas
killed that bull with one punch and went on to fight and defeat 52 more bulls in battle.

KYUDO
A Japanese sport using a six foot bamboo bow and a arrow. A weapon used by the Samurai. The most
famous of this sport was a Samurai named Nasu No Yoichi.

LION DANCE
On the Chinese new year a ritualistic dance called the lion dance is performed. This dance is more then
a 1000 years old and has strict rules in the way it is performed. The Lion is regarded as an omen of
good luck and prosperity.

MOO DUK KWAN

See Tang Soo Do.

MUAY THAI
Is a Thailand kick boxing style using elbows and knees influenced by Chinese boxing. The greatest
Thai boxer of all time was King Pra Chao Sua who developed the Tiger King Style.

MUSASHI
Miyamoto Musashi was the greatest Japanese swordsman of all time. He fought over 50 duels to the
death and many battles. He wrote "The Book of Five Rings" the best book on strategy and survival you
could ever read.

MU TAU
A Greek grappling and kickboxing style of fighting, using every part of the body.

NINJA
The art of Invisibility, Survival and Silent killing. The ninja was a secret Japanese guerrilla warrior.

NINJITSU
The Japanese art of the Ninja, utilizing skills of hand-to-hand combat, wilderness survival, escape,
evasion, disguise and hiding techniques. There are two main disciplines the Red and the Black Ninja.

NUNCHAKU
A agricultural tool use in Okinawa to pound rice and used as a weapon. The weapon looked like two
sticks of wood with a rope or chain in-between them.

PA-KUA
The style is based on the premise that if you can defend yourself at the eight compass points covered by
the trigrams you will be able to defend yourself from any attack.

PENTJAK-SILAT
The most popular form of martial arts in Indonesia. There is over 200 different distinct styles of Penjak-
Silat.

PRAYING MANTIS
Wang Lang developed this style from watching the praying mantis fight. This style is Chinese in origin.

RED DRAGON
A style developed in the United States by Lou Casamassa. This style is a combination of many other
styles mainly Japanese. (see history page for details)

RONIN
Outlaw Samurai

SAI
An Okinawan weapon known as the horn of death. This weapon looks like a trident or small pitch fork.

SAMURAI
Japanese swordsman who followed the Warrior Way (He had no fear of death). He was bound by the
code of Bushido or die. This warrior always carried two swords one long and one short and his swords
were considered a part of the Samurai and never separated from him.

SAVATTE or SAVATE
A European style that used mainly the feet as a weapon. This style was developed from kicking
techniques used by the street fighters of France. Most Savate artist use their feet rather then their hands.
This style was also combined with English, Basque and Tai styles.

SHAOLIN
Chinese priest known to have Organized and developed Martial arts around 520 A.D. and spread it
throughout the world.

SHOTOKAN
A Japanese style with many Katas and forms and is a combination of power and speed.

SHORINJI KEMPO
A Japanese style developed from a Chinese Shaolin style. The most famous of these were the Black
Dragons who promoted political unrest in China by means of assassination.

SOFT STYLE
A style known for its indirect and evasive blocks and strikes.

SPARRING
A tournament style also see boxing.

SUMO
A Japanese form of wrestling using Strength, balance and leverage. There are few rules in Sumo and a
lot of tradition. the most famous Sumo Wrestler outside of Japan is Jesse Kahualua a Hawaiian.

SUN TSU
The Greatest General that ever lived. He wrote "The Art of War" a Chinese military strategy book. This
Chinese General's philosophy of war has been used by the greatest generals of all time.

TAE-KWON-DO
A martial arts developed in Korea after the 1910 Japanese occupation. Won Kwang a Buddhist monk
originated the five principles of this art. It is known as a kicking art. (see history page for details)

THAI BOXING
A tournament style boxing also using knees and feet developed in Thailand. See Boxing.

TAI-CHI-CHUAN or TAI CHI

The grand fist is one of three internal Chinese Kung-Fu styles. It is something like moving meditation
and dedicated to health and well being of the body and mind. The object of Tai-Chi is to unite the mind
and body in complete harmony. This art is based on the principles of Yin and Yang, I-ching and Taoism.
It is practiced in slow motion and is very soft and flowing. You are trained to wait for the attacker to
move fist then using their force against them. (see history page for details)

TANG SOO DO
A Korean martial arts that is a mix of Japanese and Okinawan styles. In 1945 Tang Soo Do was
renamed Moo Duk Kwan meaning the institute of martial virtue. This style stresses equally on the
mental and physical parts of Martial arts. The emphasis is on kicking and its Katas are in the Japanese
style. Chuck Norris who was eight times world champion is of this style.

TIGER CRANE
This style was developed by a women who watched a tiger and a crane fight to the death.

TONFA
A weapon and farming handle to turn millstones with and is from Okinawa.

WEAPONS
There are many styles that teach weapons only and many that teach weapons in a combination with
hand to hand combat. Many of the weapons taught were originally farm tools used as weapons because
that was the only thing they had available to defend themselves. Most commonly taught are the
nunchakus, kamas, Bo, sword and sai.

WHITE EYEBROW
A Shaolin monk named Bok Mei killed a fellow student while training. Even though it was a accident
he was exiled to the mountains. He developed this style by studying animals. Bok Mei had a long white
beard and long hair with long white eyebrows. This style is considered Chinese.

WING CHUN
Developed 400 years ago in China by a nun named Yim Wing Chun based on economy of movements.
This style uses a wooden dummy for practice and uses defecting instead of blocking. Bruce Lee made
this style famous through the movies he made.

WUSHU
The term for Martial Arts in Northern China. This art originated in China from the Shaolin Temples and
is designed to imitate the way of animals. It uses both hard and soft styles and internal and external
energy. There is southern and northern styles and is known as a circular type martial arts. There are
many weapons as Straight swords, hook swords, rope darts, fans, daggers, whip chains and many more.

YIN-YANG
A Chinese symbol representing opposites residing together and the balance of nature. Yin is the darkest
thing in our world and Yang is the brightest. This is the power of the universe and the law of all things.
To understand the Yin-Yang is to understand all. The harmony of the mind and body.

18 HANDS OF LO-HAN
A series of 18 exercises invented in India that was the foundation of martial arts.

Recommended books you should add to your personal library:

A Dictionary of the Martial Arts by Louis Frederic published by the Charles E. Tuttle Company, Inc.
Martial Arts of the Orient by Peter Lewis Published by MMB.
The Book of Five Rings.
The Art of War

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