Training Traditional Karate-by Master Takayuki Mikami, Chairman of Hokubei Shihankai

Promotion and Establishment of Karate-Do Commercial karate, as practiced throughout the world today, focuses on various punches and kicks. However, Karate as a traditional Japanese martial art emphasizes much more. As a result, it is becoming increasingly important to promote the Karate-Do to regain and stabilize the reputation of traditional Karate. The following are merits and advantages of the traditional Karate-Do training system: 1. Karate promotes overall health, both physical and mental fitness. 2. Karate can be practiced throughout life using evolving levels of intensity, regardless of athletic ability, gender, and age. 3. Karate can be practiced in variety of situations and conditions. For example, the participants are able to train alone or in groups, indoor or outdoor, and short or long periods of time, among others. 4. Karate is a method of self defense that leverages the principles of maximum energy and power. 5. Karate can be a great method of stress relief and stress control through rigorous, yet controlled, physical activity. 6. Karate is a physical activity that can help stimulate and activate hormonal systems promote mental health. 7. Karate requires a balance between the physical and mental. The physical aspect of the training involves balanced use of the entire body; whereby the left and right side, and upper and lower body are trained equally. Meanwhile, the Kata and partner-work provides mental training. Both aspects are needed for strong and complete training. In addition, the following two initiatives can be taken by the Shihankai in promoting further development and stabilization of Karate-Do. 1. Development of Appropriate Karate-Do Training System Based on Demographics It is encouraging to see the many members who started Karate training between 1960s – 1980s still actively participate in the dojo, along with the younger members. Unlike a few decades ago, when majority of the members were in their 20s, today’s dojo includes a wide range of ages, from younger children to seniors. Needless to say, the older adult members require different training, while children can participate in more rigorous activities. Therefore, the training system needs to be flexible enough to address the needs of all age groups to further their development. The training must vary in power and speed that is used to fits one’s age and ability. This will help seniors to continue training at the dojo, as well as encourage members to resume training after prolonged gaps in training. This is an important initiative towards the ever-changing environment in Karate-Do, as it promotes and stabilizes the Karate-Do based on the Japanese traditional culture and martial arts. All senior masters are encouraged to cooperate and work together towards meeting this goal. ….to be continued.... Contributing Editor: Tony Nakamura

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