KIHON WAZA BASIC TECHNIQUES k
Geri - Kick
BUKI - WEAPONS
Ashi - Foot or Leg
Chusoku - Ball (middle) of the Foot
Haisho - Backhand
Haisoku - Instep of the Foot
Haito - Inner Knife Hand
Hiji - Elbow
Hiraken - Flat Fist
Hiza - Knee
Kakato - Heel
Keiko - Chicken Beak
Koken - Wrist Top
Kote - Forearm
Nakayubi Ippon Ken- Middle Finger Knuckle Fist
Nukite - Spear Hand
Oyayubi Ippon Ken- Thumb Knuckle Fist
Ryutoken - Dragon's Head Fist
Seiken - Forefist (correct fist)
Shotei -Palm Heel
Shuto -Knife Hand
Sokuto -Outside Edge of the Foot
Sune -Shin
Te -Hand
Teisoku -Arch of the Foot
Tetsui -Hammer Fist
Toho -Sword Peak Hand
Uraken -Backfist
NERAIDOKORO KOGEKIHOKO -TARGETS & DIRECTIONS
Age -Rising
Ago -Chin or Jaw
Atama -Head
Chudan -Middle Level
Ganmen -Face
Gedan -Lower Level
Hidari -Left
Hizo -Spleen
Jodan -Upper Level
Kake -Hooked
Kansetsu -Joint (of limb)
Kintama (Kin) -Groin, Testicles
(gold jewels)
Komekami- Temple
Kubi -Neck
Mae -Front, Forward
Mawashi- Round, Circular
Me -Eyes
Migi -Right
Nodo -Throat
Oroshi -Descending
Sakotsu -Collarbone
Sayu -Left and Right
Soto -Outside
Tobi -Jumping
Uchi -Inside
Ura -Reverse, Backwards
Ushiro -Back (direction)
Yoko -Side (direction)
DACHI- STANCES
Yoi Dachi -Ready Stance
Fudo Dachi -Immobile Stance
Zenkutsu Dachi -Forward Leaning Stance
Uchi Hachiji Dachi -Inside Character "8" Stance
Sanchin Dachi -Three Point Stance
Kokutsu Dachi -Back Leaning Stance
Musubi Dachi -Open Foot (connected) Stance
Kiba Dachi -Horseback Stance
Neko Ashi Dachi -Cat Stance
Tsuru Ashi Dachi -Crane Stance
Moro Ashi Dachi -One Foot Forward (two-foot) Stance
Heisoku Dachi -Closed Foot Stance
Heiko Dachi -Parallel Stance
Kake Dachi -Hooked Stance
Soto Hachiji Dachi -Outside Character "8" Stance
Shiko Dachi -Sumo Stance
Kumite Dachi -Fighting Stance
Han Mi -Half Body Stance
Migi Ashi Mae -Right Foot Forward
Hidari Ashi Mae -Left Foot Forward
TSUKI WAZA -PUNCHING TECHNIQUES
Seiken – Forefist –
– Oi Tsuki – Lunge Punch
– Morote Tsuki – Two-Handed Punch
– Gyaku Tsuki – Reverse Punch
– Tate Tsuki – Vertical Punch
– Jun Tsuki – Side (corresponding)
Punch
Shita Tsuki Lower Punch
UCHI WAZA STRIKING TECHNIQUES
Seiken – Forefist –
– Ago Uchi – Chin / Jaw Strike
– Furi Ichi – Hook Strike
Tetsui – Hammer Fist –
– Oroshi Ganmen
Uchi – Descending Face
Strike
– Komekami Uchi – Temple Strike
– Hizo Uchi – Spleen Strike
– Mae Yoko Uchi – Forward Side Strike
– Yoko Uchi – Side Strike
Uraken – Backfist –
– Ganmen Uchi – Face Strike
– Sayu Uchi – Left and Right Strike
– Hizo Uchi – Spleen Strike
– Oroshi Ganmen
Uchi – Descending Face
Strike
– Mawashi Uchi – Roundhouse Strike
Nihon Nukite Two-Fingered Spear Hand
Yonhon Nukite Four-Fingered Spear Hand
Shotei Uchi Palm Heel Strike
Shuto – Knife Hand –
– Sakotsu Uchi – Collarbone Strike
– Yoko Ganmen Uchi – Side Face Strike
– Sakotsu Uchikomi – Collarbone Driving
Strike
– Hizo Uchi – Spleen Strike
– Uchi Uchi – Inside Strike
Hiji Ate Elbow Strike
Mae Hiji Ate- Forward Elbow Strike
Age Hiji Ate -Rising Elbow Strike
Ushiro Hiji Ate -Backwards Elbow Strike
Oroshi Hiji Ate -Descending Elbow Strike
UKE WAZA -BLOCKING TECHNIQUES
Jodan Uke -Upper Block
Gedan Barai -Lower Parry
Chudan Uchi -Uke Middle Area Inside Block
Chudan Soto Uke -Middle Area Outside Block
Morote Chudan Uchi Uke -Two-Handed Middle Area Inside Block
Shuto Uke -Knife Hand Block
Juji Uke -Crossed Block
Kake Uke -Hooked Block
Shotei Uke -Palm Heel Block
Mawashi Uke -Circular Block
GERI WAZA -KICKING TECHNIQUES
Hiza Ganmen Geri -Knee Face Kick
Kin Geri -Groin Kick
Mae Geri -Front Kick
Mae Keage -Front Rising Kick
Soto Mawashi Geri -Outside Crescent Kick
Uchi Mawashi Geri -Inside Crescent Kick
Yoko Keage -Side Rising Kick
Mawashi Geri -Roundhouse Kick
Kansetsu Geri -Joint Kick
Yoko Geri -Side Kick
Ushiro Geri -Back Kick
Mae Kakato Geri -Front Heel Kick
Ago Geri -Chin / Jaw Kick
Tobi Mae Geri -Jumping Front Kick
KIHON JUTSUGO -BASIC TERMINOLOGY
Anza -Relaxed Sitting
Arigato
Gozaimasu- Thank You
(polite)
Budo -Martial Way
Bunkai -Application (analysis)
Dan -Grade (Black Belt)
Dojo -Training Hall (Way place)
Dojo Kun -Training Hall Oath
Dogi (Gi) -Karate Uniform (Way clothes)
Fumiashi -Step (with a change of feet)
Gasshukoku -United States
Hajime -Begin
Hanshi -Honorable Master
Ibuki Forced -Tension Breathing
Jisen Kumite Full-Contact Fighting
Jiyu Kumite -Free Fighting
Kamaete -Take Ready Position
Karate -Empty Hand
Kata -Form
Ki -Inner Energy
Kiai -Explosive Scream
Kiai Irete- With Explosive Energy
Kihon -Basics
Kihon Waza -Basic Techniques
Kime -Focus
Kohai -Junior Student
Kokusai -International
Kosa -Switch (i.e. switch stance L to R or R to L)
Kotai -Switch (i.e. partners switch places in a drill)
Kumite -Fight
Kyokushin -Ultimate Truth
Kyu -Rank (below Black Belt)
Maai -Interval (between opponents)
Makiwara -Striking Post (straw wrapped)
Mawatte -Turn
Mokuso -Meditation (silent thought)
Mugorei -No Counting (no commands)
Mushin -Without Thought (no mind)
Naore -Return to Starting Position
Nogare -Calm Controlled Breathing
Obi -Belt (sash)
Okuriashi- Shuffle Step (sending foot)
Onegaishimasu -Please (polite)
Osu -Patience and Determination
Otagai -Each Other
Rei (...ni Rei) -Bow (Bow to...)
Renmei -Federation
Renma -Polishing, Training
Renraku -Combinations
Seishin -Spirit
Seiza -Formal Kneeling (correct sitting)
Sempai -Senior (1st & 2nd Dan)
Sensei -Teacher (born before) (3rd & 4th Dan)
Shomen -Front (correct face) of the Dojo
Shihan -Expert (5th, 6th & 7th Dan)
Sosai -President
Tameshiwari -Breaking Test
Tanden -Center of Body (below navel)
Waza -Technique(s)
Yame -Stop
Yasume -Rest, at Ease
Yoi -Ready
Yudanshu -Black Belt Holder
Zanshin -Remain Alert (remaining mind)
TAIKAI JUTSUGO ---TOURNAMENT TERMINOLOGY
Aka -Red
Awasete Ippon -Adds Up to One Point
Chui -Warning
Encho- Overtime Round (extension)
Fukushin -Corner Judge (assistant referee)
Fukushin -Shugo Referees' Conference
Genten -Penalty
Hantei -Decision
Hikiwake -Draw, Tie
Ippon -One Point
Kachi -Win
Senshuken -Taikai Championship Tournament
Shikaku -Disqualification
Shiro -White
Shushin -Referee
Waza Ari -Half Point (has a technique)
Zokko -Resume Fighting
KAZU -NUMBERS
Ichi -One
Ni- Two
San -Three
Shi,Yon -Four
Go -Five
Roku -Six
Shichi,Nana- Seven
Hachi -Eight
Ku -Nine
Ju -Ten
Sanju -Thirty
Hyaku -Hundred
Sen -Thousand
Man -Ten Thousand
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Philosophical Thoughts
"One becomes a beginner after one thousand days of training and an expert after ten thousand days of practice."
~Mas Oyama~
"Although it is important to study and train for skill in techniques, for the man who wishes to truly accomplish the way of budo, it is important to makehis whole life in training and therefore not aiming for skill and strength alone, but also for spiritual attainment."
~Mas Oyama~
"A human life gains luster and strength only when it is polished and tempered."
~Mas Oyama~
"Reading good books implants good ideas in the mind, develops good aspirations, and leads to the cultivation of good friends."
~Mas Oyama~
"One living daily in the Way carries their head low and their eyes high; reserved in speech and possessing a kind heart, they steadfastly continue in their training efforts."
~Mas Oyama~
"Aspirations must be pure and free of selfishness. Arising from the depths of the soul, aspirations are spiritual demands penetrating all of a human life and making it possible for a person to die for their sake. A person without aspirations is like a ship without a rudder or a horse without a bridle. Aspirations give consistent order to life."
~Mas Oyama~
"As far as possible, I want nothing more than to don my training gi and teach Karate."
~Mas Oyama~
"If someone asked me what a human being ought to devote the maximum of his life to, I would answer: training. Train more than you sleep."
~Mas Oyama~
"Karate is the most ZEN-like of all the martial arts. It has abandoned the sword. This means that it trascends the idea of winning and losing to become a way of thinking and living for the sake of other people in accordance with the way of Heaven. Its meanings, therefore, reach the profound levels of human thought."
~Mas Oyama~
"One must try everyday to expand one's limits."
~Mas Oyama~
"Behind each triumph are new peaks to be conquered."
~Mas Oyama~
"Until the day I die, I never want to be separated from my dogi; I never want to cease my training efforts in the dojo."
~Mas Oyama~
"The fastest way to attain courage is to follow the chosen Way and be willing to abandon life itself for the sake of justice."
~Mas Oyama~
"If you have confidence in your own words, aspirations, thoughts, and actions and do your very best, you will have no need to regret the outcome of what you do. Fear and trembling are lot of the person who, while stinting effort, hopes that everything will come out precisely as he wants."
~Mas Oyama~
"Human beings are capable of virtually limitless degradation; they are also capable of virtually limitless improvement and achievement. Success depends on goals and on diligence in pursuing them."
~Mas Oyama~
"Always remember that the true meaning of Budo is that soft overcomes hard, small overcomes large."
~Mas Oyama~
"The most significant life is the one lived on the basis of a personal sense of justice and the desire to see justice realized everywhere."
~Mas Oyama~
"It is possible for even the smallest of accolades of achievement to be truly worthwhile without tears and toil?"
~Mas Oyama~
"I realized that perseverence and step-by-step progress are the only ways to reach a goal along a chosen path."
~Mas Oyama~
"Subjecting yourself to vigourous training is more for the sake of forging a resolute spirit that can vanquish the self than it is for developing a strong body."
~Mas Oyama~
"Each of us has his cowardice. Each of us is afraid to lose, afraid to die. But hanging back is the way to remain a coward for life. The Way to find courage is to seek it on the field of conflict. And the sure way to victory is willingness to risk one's own life."
~Mas Oyama~
"We in Kyokushin maintain faith in the Way that knows no prejudices."
~Mas Oyama~
"My Way is the Way of Karate, which is also the Way of humanity, and which is consequently related to the Way of Heaven."
~Mas Oyama~
"A man who understands decorum and the courtesies is a great treasure; I hope to train and send into society as many such men as I can."
~Mas Oyama~
"No matter how strong the rival, the just will always win."
~Mas Oyama~
"True courage is born only when it is accompanied by justice."
~Mas Oyama~
"Courtesy should be apparent in all our actions and words and in all aspects of daily life. But be courtesy, I do not mean rigid, cold formality. Courtesy in the truest sense is selfless concern for the welfare and physical and mental comfort of the other person."
~Mas Oyama~
"Karate is Budo and if Budo is removed from Karate it is nothing more than sport karate, show karate, or even fashion karate-the idea of training merely to be fashionable."
~Mas Oyama~
"I have not permitted myself to be ignorant of any martial art that exists. Why? Such ignorance is a disgrace to someone who follows the path of the martial arts."
~Mas Oyama~
"If you do not overcome your tendancy to give up easily, your life lead to nothing."
~Mas Oyama~
"Sice Karate exists for cultivating the spirit and training the body, it must be a moral way surpassing mere techniques..."
~Mas Oyama~
"Power is no more than a part, no more than the tip of the iceberg of limitless profundity and sublimate of Karate."
~Mas Oyama~
"In the martial arts, introspection begets wisdom. Always see contemplation on your actions as an opportunity to improve."
~Mas Oyama~
"Studying the martial Way is like climbing a cliff: keep going forward without rest. Resting is not permissible because it causes recessions to old adages of achievement. Persevering day in, day out improves techniques, but resting one day causes lapses. This must be prevented."
~Mas Oyama~
"Personal greed and egoism are things that cause human beings to forget respect for others and to violate rules that have been established for the sake of peace and friendship."
~Mas Oyama~
"Come ye trials and challanges; come life's big waves, for I am ready?"
~Mas Oyama~
"Since karate is a martial art, you must practice with the utmost seriousness from the very beginning."
~Gichin Funakoshi~
"Try to do exactly as you are taught without complaining or quibbling."
~Gichin Funakoshi~
"When you are learning a new technique, practice it wholeheartedly until you truly understand it."
~Gichin Funakoshi~
"Don't pretend to be a great master and don't try to show off your strength."
~Gichin Funakoshi~
"Remember that you must always have a deep regard for courtesy, and you must be respectful and obedient toward your seniors."
~Gichin Funakoshi~
"You must ignore the bad and adopt the good."
~Gichin Funakoshi~
"Think of everyday life as karate training."
~Gichin Funakoshi~
"Supreme excellence consists of breaking the enemy's resistance without fighting."
~Sun Tzu~
"What I hear, I forget. What I see, I remember. What I do, Iunderstand."
~Confucius~
"Anger is just like picking up a hot piece of coal andtrying to throw it at the person you hate. You are the only one that getsburned."
~Buddha~
"The mind should be nowhere in particular."
~Takuan~
"Under the sword lifted high, There is hell making you tremble. But go ahead, And you have the land of bliss."
~Miyamoto Musashi~
"It is dishonorable to die with your katana clutchedin your hand and your wakizashi tied to your belt sheathed and untouched. "
~Miyamoto Musashi~
"Enlightenment or delusion? Who is to say which person has wish? Like the evening moon they appear and fade. Not one knows exactly when."
~Ueshiba Morihei~
"The great mistake is to anticipate the outcome of theengagement; you ought not to be thinking of whether it ends in victoryor defeat. Let nature take its course, and your tools will strike at theright moment. "
~Bruce Lee~
"If every man would help his neighbor, no man would be without help."
~Bruce Lee~
"The classical man is just a bundle of routine, ideas andtradition. If you follow the classical pattern, you are understanding theroutine, the tradition, the shadow. You are not understanding yourself. "
~Bruce Lee~
"Empty your cup so that it may be filled; become devoid to gain totality."
~Bruce Lee~
"Water can support a ship and water can also sink a ship."
~Old Chinese proverb~
~Mas Oyama~
"Although it is important to study and train for skill in techniques, for the man who wishes to truly accomplish the way of budo, it is important to makehis whole life in training and therefore not aiming for skill and strength alone, but also for spiritual attainment."
~Mas Oyama~
"A human life gains luster and strength only when it is polished and tempered."
~Mas Oyama~
"Reading good books implants good ideas in the mind, develops good aspirations, and leads to the cultivation of good friends."
~Mas Oyama~
"One living daily in the Way carries their head low and their eyes high; reserved in speech and possessing a kind heart, they steadfastly continue in their training efforts."
~Mas Oyama~
"Aspirations must be pure and free of selfishness. Arising from the depths of the soul, aspirations are spiritual demands penetrating all of a human life and making it possible for a person to die for their sake. A person without aspirations is like a ship without a rudder or a horse without a bridle. Aspirations give consistent order to life."
~Mas Oyama~
"As far as possible, I want nothing more than to don my training gi and teach Karate."
~Mas Oyama~
"If someone asked me what a human being ought to devote the maximum of his life to, I would answer: training. Train more than you sleep."
~Mas Oyama~
"Karate is the most ZEN-like of all the martial arts. It has abandoned the sword. This means that it trascends the idea of winning and losing to become a way of thinking and living for the sake of other people in accordance with the way of Heaven. Its meanings, therefore, reach the profound levels of human thought."
~Mas Oyama~
"One must try everyday to expand one's limits."
~Mas Oyama~
"Behind each triumph are new peaks to be conquered."
~Mas Oyama~
"Until the day I die, I never want to be separated from my dogi; I never want to cease my training efforts in the dojo."
~Mas Oyama~
"The fastest way to attain courage is to follow the chosen Way and be willing to abandon life itself for the sake of justice."
~Mas Oyama~
"If you have confidence in your own words, aspirations, thoughts, and actions and do your very best, you will have no need to regret the outcome of what you do. Fear and trembling are lot of the person who, while stinting effort, hopes that everything will come out precisely as he wants."
~Mas Oyama~
"Human beings are capable of virtually limitless degradation; they are also capable of virtually limitless improvement and achievement. Success depends on goals and on diligence in pursuing them."
~Mas Oyama~
"Always remember that the true meaning of Budo is that soft overcomes hard, small overcomes large."
~Mas Oyama~
"The most significant life is the one lived on the basis of a personal sense of justice and the desire to see justice realized everywhere."
~Mas Oyama~
"It is possible for even the smallest of accolades of achievement to be truly worthwhile without tears and toil?"
~Mas Oyama~
"I realized that perseverence and step-by-step progress are the only ways to reach a goal along a chosen path."
~Mas Oyama~
"Subjecting yourself to vigourous training is more for the sake of forging a resolute spirit that can vanquish the self than it is for developing a strong body."
~Mas Oyama~
"Each of us has his cowardice. Each of us is afraid to lose, afraid to die. But hanging back is the way to remain a coward for life. The Way to find courage is to seek it on the field of conflict. And the sure way to victory is willingness to risk one's own life."
~Mas Oyama~
"We in Kyokushin maintain faith in the Way that knows no prejudices."
~Mas Oyama~
"My Way is the Way of Karate, which is also the Way of humanity, and which is consequently related to the Way of Heaven."
~Mas Oyama~
"A man who understands decorum and the courtesies is a great treasure; I hope to train and send into society as many such men as I can."
~Mas Oyama~
"No matter how strong the rival, the just will always win."
~Mas Oyama~
"True courage is born only when it is accompanied by justice."
~Mas Oyama~
"Courtesy should be apparent in all our actions and words and in all aspects of daily life. But be courtesy, I do not mean rigid, cold formality. Courtesy in the truest sense is selfless concern for the welfare and physical and mental comfort of the other person."
~Mas Oyama~
"Karate is Budo and if Budo is removed from Karate it is nothing more than sport karate, show karate, or even fashion karate-the idea of training merely to be fashionable."
~Mas Oyama~
"I have not permitted myself to be ignorant of any martial art that exists. Why? Such ignorance is a disgrace to someone who follows the path of the martial arts."
~Mas Oyama~
"If you do not overcome your tendancy to give up easily, your life lead to nothing."
~Mas Oyama~
"Sice Karate exists for cultivating the spirit and training the body, it must be a moral way surpassing mere techniques..."
~Mas Oyama~
"Power is no more than a part, no more than the tip of the iceberg of limitless profundity and sublimate of Karate."
~Mas Oyama~
"In the martial arts, introspection begets wisdom. Always see contemplation on your actions as an opportunity to improve."
~Mas Oyama~
"Studying the martial Way is like climbing a cliff: keep going forward without rest. Resting is not permissible because it causes recessions to old adages of achievement. Persevering day in, day out improves techniques, but resting one day causes lapses. This must be prevented."
~Mas Oyama~
"Personal greed and egoism are things that cause human beings to forget respect for others and to violate rules that have been established for the sake of peace and friendship."
~Mas Oyama~
"Come ye trials and challanges; come life's big waves, for I am ready?"
~Mas Oyama~
"Since karate is a martial art, you must practice with the utmost seriousness from the very beginning."
~Gichin Funakoshi~
"Try to do exactly as you are taught without complaining or quibbling."
~Gichin Funakoshi~
"When you are learning a new technique, practice it wholeheartedly until you truly understand it."
~Gichin Funakoshi~
"Don't pretend to be a great master and don't try to show off your strength."
~Gichin Funakoshi~
"Remember that you must always have a deep regard for courtesy, and you must be respectful and obedient toward your seniors."
~Gichin Funakoshi~
"You must ignore the bad and adopt the good."
~Gichin Funakoshi~
"Think of everyday life as karate training."
~Gichin Funakoshi~
"Supreme excellence consists of breaking the enemy's resistance without fighting."
~Sun Tzu~
"What I hear, I forget. What I see, I remember. What I do, Iunderstand."
~Confucius~
"Anger is just like picking up a hot piece of coal andtrying to throw it at the person you hate. You are the only one that getsburned."
~Buddha~
"The mind should be nowhere in particular."
~Takuan~
"Under the sword lifted high, There is hell making you tremble. But go ahead, And you have the land of bliss."
~Miyamoto Musashi~
"It is dishonorable to die with your katana clutchedin your hand and your wakizashi tied to your belt sheathed and untouched. "
~Miyamoto Musashi~
"Enlightenment or delusion? Who is to say which person has wish? Like the evening moon they appear and fade. Not one knows exactly when."
~Ueshiba Morihei~
"The great mistake is to anticipate the outcome of theengagement; you ought not to be thinking of whether it ends in victoryor defeat. Let nature take its course, and your tools will strike at theright moment. "
~Bruce Lee~
"If every man would help his neighbor, no man would be without help."
~Bruce Lee~
"The classical man is just a bundle of routine, ideas andtradition. If you follow the classical pattern, you are understanding theroutine, the tradition, the shadow. You are not understanding yourself. "
~Bruce Lee~
"Empty your cup so that it may be filled; become devoid to gain totality."
~Bruce Lee~
"Water can support a ship and water can also sink a ship."
~Old Chinese proverb~
1. When entering or leaving the Dojo, stand in the doorway, face the front, bow and say "OSU". This represents a mark or respect for the Dojo and the people in it.
2. If late for training, kneel at the side of the class towards the back, facing away in SEIZA (formal kneeling position). When the instructor acknowledges you, stand up, turn to the front , bow and say "OSU" then "Shitsurei Shimasu" (excuse me for disturbing), then quickly join the back of the class.
3. Do not eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in the Dojo.
4. Always move quickly in class when intructed to do something. DO NOT STROLL.
5. Do not practise KUMITE unless instructed to do so.
6. Do not break rank for any reason, without asking permission from the instructor. If you must leave your position, do not walk between the instructor and the class. Walk behind the row you are in to either side and proceed from there.
7. Always address the instructor and seniors by their proper title (SEMPAI, SENSEI, SHIHAN) inside the Dojo. Acknowledge them with a loud "OSU" when they speak to you.
8. Your training should be a serious matter. Do not laugh, giggle, talk or cause disruption during the class. You should always stand in FUDO DACHI when awaiting the next command.
9. All directions, by instructor, should be obeyed in the Dojo, without question. You will not be asked to do anything that your instructor has not done him/herself already. If you cannot keep up, do the best you can.
10. Keep fingernails and toenails short and clean.
11. During the break: No sitting on chairs, leaning against the wall or lying down. Do some training rather than waste time.
12. It is everyone's responsibility to ensure the Dojo is clean, tidy and safe at all times.
13. Your karate-gi must be neat and washed clean at all times. Your belt should NEVER be washed, only aired dry. It symbolically contains the spirit of your hard training, and under no circumstances are male karatekas allowed to wear t-shirts or other clothing underneath their karate-gi.
14. Don't wear jewellery or watches during training.
The meaning of " OSU! "
*Osu means patience, respect and appreciation. In order to develop a strong body and strong spirit it is necessary to undergo rigorous training.
This is very demanding, because you must push yourself to what you believe to be your limit, and you want to stop; to give up. When you reach this point you must fight yourself and your weakness and you must win. To do this you must learn to persevere, but above all you must learn to be patient. This is OSU!
The reason you subject yourself to hard training is because you care about yourself, and to care about yourself is to respect yourself. This self respect evolves and expands to become respect for your instructor and fellow students. When you enter the dojo you bow and say "Osu" . This means you respect your dojo and the time you spend training there. This feeling of respect is OSU!
During training you push yourself as hard as possible because you respect yourself. When you finish you bow to your insructor and fellow students and say "Osu" once more. You do this out of appreciation. This feeling of appreciation is OSU.
Thus OSU is a very important word in Kyokushin Karate because it signifies patience, respect and appreciation. That is why we always use the word OSU; to remind ourselves of these indespensable qualities.
OSU!!!
2. If late for training, kneel at the side of the class towards the back, facing away in SEIZA (formal kneeling position). When the instructor acknowledges you, stand up, turn to the front , bow and say "OSU" then "Shitsurei Shimasu" (excuse me for disturbing), then quickly join the back of the class.
3. Do not eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in the Dojo.
4. Always move quickly in class when intructed to do something. DO NOT STROLL.
5. Do not practise KUMITE unless instructed to do so.
6. Do not break rank for any reason, without asking permission from the instructor. If you must leave your position, do not walk between the instructor and the class. Walk behind the row you are in to either side and proceed from there.
7. Always address the instructor and seniors by their proper title (SEMPAI, SENSEI, SHIHAN) inside the Dojo. Acknowledge them with a loud "OSU" when they speak to you.
8. Your training should be a serious matter. Do not laugh, giggle, talk or cause disruption during the class. You should always stand in FUDO DACHI when awaiting the next command.
9. All directions, by instructor, should be obeyed in the Dojo, without question. You will not be asked to do anything that your instructor has not done him/herself already. If you cannot keep up, do the best you can.
10. Keep fingernails and toenails short and clean.
11. During the break: No sitting on chairs, leaning against the wall or lying down. Do some training rather than waste time.
12. It is everyone's responsibility to ensure the Dojo is clean, tidy and safe at all times.
13. Your karate-gi must be neat and washed clean at all times. Your belt should NEVER be washed, only aired dry. It symbolically contains the spirit of your hard training, and under no circumstances are male karatekas allowed to wear t-shirts or other clothing underneath their karate-gi.
14. Don't wear jewellery or watches during training.
The meaning of " OSU! "
*Osu means patience, respect and appreciation. In order to develop a strong body and strong spirit it is necessary to undergo rigorous training.
This is very demanding, because you must push yourself to what you believe to be your limit, and you want to stop; to give up. When you reach this point you must fight yourself and your weakness and you must win. To do this you must learn to persevere, but above all you must learn to be patient. This is OSU!
The reason you subject yourself to hard training is because you care about yourself, and to care about yourself is to respect yourself. This self respect evolves and expands to become respect for your instructor and fellow students. When you enter the dojo you bow and say "Osu" . This means you respect your dojo and the time you spend training there. This feeling of respect is OSU!
During training you push yourself as hard as possible because you respect yourself. When you finish you bow to your insructor and fellow students and say "Osu" once more. You do this out of appreciation. This feeling of appreciation is OSU.
Thus OSU is a very important word in Kyokushin Karate because it signifies patience, respect and appreciation. That is why we always use the word OSU; to remind ourselves of these indespensable qualities.
OSU!!!
Kyokushin Kata
The word kata means "shape" or "form". The kanji for kata the Japanese character above at the right) is composed of the following characters:
Katachi meaning "Shape",
Kai meaning "Cut", and
Tsuchi meaning "Earth" or "Soil".
Literally translated, kata means "shape which cuts the ground".
A kata is a sequence of blocks, kicks and punches from one or more stances, involving movement forward, backward and to the sides. The number of movements and their sequence are very specific. The balance between offensive and defensive techniques, the stances used and the direction and flow of movement all serve to give each kata its distinctive character.
Through the practice of kata, the traditional techniques used for fighting are learned. Balance, coordination, breathing and concentration are also developed. Done properly, kata are an excellent physical exercise and a very effective form of total mind and body conditioning. Kata embodies the idea of ren ma, or "always polishing" – with diligent practice, the moves of the kata become further refined and perfected. The attention to detail that is necessary to perfect a kata cultivates self discipline.
Through concentration, dedication and practice, a higher level of learning may be achieved, where the kata is so ingrained in the subconscious mind that no conscious attention is needed. This is what the Zen masters call mushin, or "no mind." The conscious, rational thought practice is not used at all – what was once memorized is now spontaneous.
The practice of traditional kata is also a way for the karateka to pay respect to the origins and history of Kyokushin Karate and the martial arts in general.
Origins
Kyokushin kata are often categorized as "Northern Kata" or "Southern Kata," based upon their origin and development.
The Northern Kata are similar to those found in Shotokan Karate, since they were developed from Mas Oyama's training under Gichin Funakoshi. Master Funakoshi in turn derived these kata from northern Chinese kempo and Shorin Ryu, the Okinawan karate style based on Chinese Shaolin (i.e. "Shorin") kempo. These kata utilize long, powerful stances and strong blocks and strikes. The Northern Kata include:
-Taikyoku Sono Ichi, Ni and San
-Pinan Sono Ichi, Ni, San, Yon and Go
-Yansu
-Tsuki no Kata
-Kanku
-Sushiho
The Southern Kata were developed from Mas Oyama's study of the Okinawan karate style of Goju Ryu under So Nei Chu, which in turn were derived from southern Chinese kempo. The movements in these kata are more circular and flamboyant than those in the Northern Kata. The Southern Kata include:
-Sanchin no Kata
-Gekisai Dai and Sho
-Tensho
-Saiha
-Seienchin
-Gayru
-Seipai
-Meanings
*Taikyoku is literally translated as "grand ultimate", and in Chinese, the kanji characters are pronounced Tai Chi. The word Taikyoku can also mean overview or the whole point – seeing the whole rather than focusing on the individual parts, and keeping an open mind or beginner's mind. The beginner's mind is what is strived for during training and in life. The beginner's mind does not hold prejudice and does not cling to a narrow view. The beginner's mind is open to endless possibilities.
*Pinan is the Okinawan pronunciation of the kanji characters for peace and relaxation (pronounced Heian in Japanese). Though the physical moves of kata involve techniques used for fighting, the purpose of kata is to develop a calm, peaceful mind and harmony between the mind and body.
* Sanchin literally means "three battles" or "three conflicts". It is the principal kata in certain Okinawan karate styles, such as Goju Ryu and Uechi Ryu, and it is likely one of the oldest kata. Certain legends attribute the creation of Sanchin to Bodhidharma in the early sixth century. Sanchin kata seeks to develop three elements at the same time:
– The mind, body and the techniques,
– The internal organs, circulation and the nervous system, and
– The three ki, located in:
– the top of the head (tento),
– the diaphragm (hara), and
– the lower abdomen (tan den).
* Sanchin is an isometric kata where each move is performed in a state of complete tension, accompanied by powerful, deep breathing (ibuki) that originates in the lower abdomen (tan den). The practice of Sanchin not only leads to the strengthening of the body, but to the development of the inner power (ki) and the coordination of mind and body.
* Gekisai means conquer and occupy. The name is derived from the characters Geki, meaning attack or conquer, and Sai, meaning fortress or stronghold (literally translated as "closed", "shut" or "covered"). The word *Gekisai can also mean demolish, destroy or pulverize. The katas teach strength through fluidity of motion, mobility and the utilization of various techniques. Flexibility of attack and response will always be superior to rigid and inflexible strength.
* Yansu is derived from the characters Yan, meaning safe, and Su, meaning three. The name is attributed to that of a Chinese military attaché to Okinawa in the 19th Century. The word yansu also means to keep pure, striving to maintain the purity of principles and ideals rather than compromising for expediency.
* Tsuki no by its very name is a punching kata (there is only one kick and just a few blocks in the entire kata). The word Tsuki can also mean fortune and luck. Good fortune and luck does not come by waiting. For every punch in this kata, envision that a personal barrier is being broken down. Strong, persistent effort directed at problems will bring good fortune.
* Tensho means rolling or fluid hand, literally translated as "rotating palms". *Tensho is the soft and circular (yin) counterpart to the hard and linear (yang) *Sanchin kata. Not only was Tensho one of Mas Oyama's favorite kata, he considered it to be the most indispensable of the advanced kata:
*Tensho is a basic illustration of the definition of Karate, derived from Chinese kempo, as a technique of circles based on points.
*Tensho should be a prime object of practice because, as a psychological and theoretical support behind karate training and as a central element in basic karate formal exercises, it has permeated the techniques, the blocks and the thrusts, and is intimately connected with the very life of karate.
A man who has practiced Tensho kata a number of thousands of times and has a firm grasp of its theory can not only take any attack, but can also turn the advantage in any attack, and will always be able to defend himself perfectly.
Saiha means extreme destruction, smashing or tearing. The word Saiha can also mean great wave, the source of the IFK logo. No matter how large a problem is encountered, with patience, determination and perseverance (Osu) one can rise above and overcome it, or smash through and get beyond it.
* Kanku means sky gazing. Literally translated, Kan means "view", and Ku means "universe", "air", "emptiness" or "void" (the same character as Kara in karate). The first move of the kata is the formation of an opening with the hands above the head, through which one gazes at the universe and rising sun. The significance is that no matter what problems are faced, each day is new and the universe is waiting. Nothing is so terrible that it affects the basic reality of existence.
* Seienchin means conqueror and subdue over a distance, or attack the rebellious outpost. In feudal Japan, Samurai warriors would often go on expeditions lasting many months, and they needed to maintain their strength and spirit over a long period of time. This kata is long and slow, with many techniques performed from kiba dachi (horseback stance). The legs usually become very tired in this kata, and a strong spirit is needed to persevere, instead of giving up. The word Seienchin can also mean to pull in battle.
* Sushiho means 54 steps. Sushiho is derived from the words Useshi, the Okinawan pronunciation of the kanji characters for 54 (pronounced Go Ju Shi in Japanese), and Ho, meaning walk or step. Other karate styles call this advanced kata Gojushiho.
* Garyu means reclining dragon. In Japanese philosophy, a great man who remains in obscurity is called a Garyu. A dragon is all-powerful, but a reclining dragon chooses not to display his power until it is needed. Likewise, a true karateka does not brag about or show off his abilities. He never forgets the true virtue of humility.
* Seipai is the Okinawan pronunciation of the kanji characters for 18 (pronounced Ju Hachi in Japanese). In other karate styles, this kata is sometimes called Seipaite, or eighteen hands. The number 18 is derived from the Buddhist concept of 6 x 3, where six represents color, voice, taste, smell, touch and justice and three represents good, bad and peace.
Katachi meaning "Shape",
Kai meaning "Cut", and
Tsuchi meaning "Earth" or "Soil".
Literally translated, kata means "shape which cuts the ground".
A kata is a sequence of blocks, kicks and punches from one or more stances, involving movement forward, backward and to the sides. The number of movements and their sequence are very specific. The balance between offensive and defensive techniques, the stances used and the direction and flow of movement all serve to give each kata its distinctive character.
Through the practice of kata, the traditional techniques used for fighting are learned. Balance, coordination, breathing and concentration are also developed. Done properly, kata are an excellent physical exercise and a very effective form of total mind and body conditioning. Kata embodies the idea of ren ma, or "always polishing" – with diligent practice, the moves of the kata become further refined and perfected. The attention to detail that is necessary to perfect a kata cultivates self discipline.
Through concentration, dedication and practice, a higher level of learning may be achieved, where the kata is so ingrained in the subconscious mind that no conscious attention is needed. This is what the Zen masters call mushin, or "no mind." The conscious, rational thought practice is not used at all – what was once memorized is now spontaneous.
The practice of traditional kata is also a way for the karateka to pay respect to the origins and history of Kyokushin Karate and the martial arts in general.
Origins
Kyokushin kata are often categorized as "Northern Kata" or "Southern Kata," based upon their origin and development.
The Northern Kata are similar to those found in Shotokan Karate, since they were developed from Mas Oyama's training under Gichin Funakoshi. Master Funakoshi in turn derived these kata from northern Chinese kempo and Shorin Ryu, the Okinawan karate style based on Chinese Shaolin (i.e. "Shorin") kempo. These kata utilize long, powerful stances and strong blocks and strikes. The Northern Kata include:
-Taikyoku Sono Ichi, Ni and San
-Pinan Sono Ichi, Ni, San, Yon and Go
-Yansu
-Tsuki no Kata
-Kanku
-Sushiho
The Southern Kata were developed from Mas Oyama's study of the Okinawan karate style of Goju Ryu under So Nei Chu, which in turn were derived from southern Chinese kempo. The movements in these kata are more circular and flamboyant than those in the Northern Kata. The Southern Kata include:
-Sanchin no Kata
-Gekisai Dai and Sho
-Tensho
-Saiha
-Seienchin
-Gayru
-Seipai
-Meanings
*Taikyoku is literally translated as "grand ultimate", and in Chinese, the kanji characters are pronounced Tai Chi. The word Taikyoku can also mean overview or the whole point – seeing the whole rather than focusing on the individual parts, and keeping an open mind or beginner's mind. The beginner's mind is what is strived for during training and in life. The beginner's mind does not hold prejudice and does not cling to a narrow view. The beginner's mind is open to endless possibilities.
*Pinan is the Okinawan pronunciation of the kanji characters for peace and relaxation (pronounced Heian in Japanese). Though the physical moves of kata involve techniques used for fighting, the purpose of kata is to develop a calm, peaceful mind and harmony between the mind and body.
* Sanchin literally means "three battles" or "three conflicts". It is the principal kata in certain Okinawan karate styles, such as Goju Ryu and Uechi Ryu, and it is likely one of the oldest kata. Certain legends attribute the creation of Sanchin to Bodhidharma in the early sixth century. Sanchin kata seeks to develop three elements at the same time:
– The mind, body and the techniques,
– The internal organs, circulation and the nervous system, and
– The three ki, located in:
– the top of the head (tento),
– the diaphragm (hara), and
– the lower abdomen (tan den).
* Sanchin is an isometric kata where each move is performed in a state of complete tension, accompanied by powerful, deep breathing (ibuki) that originates in the lower abdomen (tan den). The practice of Sanchin not only leads to the strengthening of the body, but to the development of the inner power (ki) and the coordination of mind and body.
* Gekisai means conquer and occupy. The name is derived from the characters Geki, meaning attack or conquer, and Sai, meaning fortress or stronghold (literally translated as "closed", "shut" or "covered"). The word *Gekisai can also mean demolish, destroy or pulverize. The katas teach strength through fluidity of motion, mobility and the utilization of various techniques. Flexibility of attack and response will always be superior to rigid and inflexible strength.
* Yansu is derived from the characters Yan, meaning safe, and Su, meaning three. The name is attributed to that of a Chinese military attaché to Okinawa in the 19th Century. The word yansu also means to keep pure, striving to maintain the purity of principles and ideals rather than compromising for expediency.
* Tsuki no by its very name is a punching kata (there is only one kick and just a few blocks in the entire kata). The word Tsuki can also mean fortune and luck. Good fortune and luck does not come by waiting. For every punch in this kata, envision that a personal barrier is being broken down. Strong, persistent effort directed at problems will bring good fortune.
* Tensho means rolling or fluid hand, literally translated as "rotating palms". *Tensho is the soft and circular (yin) counterpart to the hard and linear (yang) *Sanchin kata. Not only was Tensho one of Mas Oyama's favorite kata, he considered it to be the most indispensable of the advanced kata:
*Tensho is a basic illustration of the definition of Karate, derived from Chinese kempo, as a technique of circles based on points.
*Tensho should be a prime object of practice because, as a psychological and theoretical support behind karate training and as a central element in basic karate formal exercises, it has permeated the techniques, the blocks and the thrusts, and is intimately connected with the very life of karate.
A man who has practiced Tensho kata a number of thousands of times and has a firm grasp of its theory can not only take any attack, but can also turn the advantage in any attack, and will always be able to defend himself perfectly.
Saiha means extreme destruction, smashing or tearing. The word Saiha can also mean great wave, the source of the IFK logo. No matter how large a problem is encountered, with patience, determination and perseverance (Osu) one can rise above and overcome it, or smash through and get beyond it.
* Kanku means sky gazing. Literally translated, Kan means "view", and Ku means "universe", "air", "emptiness" or "void" (the same character as Kara in karate). The first move of the kata is the formation of an opening with the hands above the head, through which one gazes at the universe and rising sun. The significance is that no matter what problems are faced, each day is new and the universe is waiting. Nothing is so terrible that it affects the basic reality of existence.
* Seienchin means conqueror and subdue over a distance, or attack the rebellious outpost. In feudal Japan, Samurai warriors would often go on expeditions lasting many months, and they needed to maintain their strength and spirit over a long period of time. This kata is long and slow, with many techniques performed from kiba dachi (horseback stance). The legs usually become very tired in this kata, and a strong spirit is needed to persevere, instead of giving up. The word Seienchin can also mean to pull in battle.
* Sushiho means 54 steps. Sushiho is derived from the words Useshi, the Okinawan pronunciation of the kanji characters for 54 (pronounced Go Ju Shi in Japanese), and Ho, meaning walk or step. Other karate styles call this advanced kata Gojushiho.
* Garyu means reclining dragon. In Japanese philosophy, a great man who remains in obscurity is called a Garyu. A dragon is all-powerful, but a reclining dragon chooses not to display his power until it is needed. Likewise, a true karateka does not brag about or show off his abilities. He never forgets the true virtue of humility.
* Seipai is the Okinawan pronunciation of the kanji characters for 18 (pronounced Ju Hachi in Japanese). In other karate styles, this kata is sometimes called Seipaite, or eighteen hands. The number 18 is derived from the Buddhist concept of 6 x 3, where six represents color, voice, taste, smell, touch and justice and three represents good, bad and peace.
Kyokushin Nijukun
1. The Martial Way begins and ends with courtesy. Therefore, be properly and genuinely courteous at all times.
2. Following the Martial Way is like scaling a cliff - continue upwards without rest. It demands absolute and unfaltering devotion to the task at hand.
3. Strive to seize the initiative in all things, all the time guarding against actions stemming from selfish animosity or thoughtlessness.
4. Even for the Martial Artist, the place of money cannot be ignored. Yet one should be careful never to become attached to it.
5. The Martial Way is centred in posture. Strive to maintain correct posture at all times.
6. The Martial Way begins with one thousand days and is mastered after ten thousand days of training.
7. In the Martial Arts, introspection begets wisdom. Always see contemplation on your actions as an opportunity to improve.
8. The nature and purpose of the Martial Way is universal. All selfish desires should be roasted in the tempering fires of hard training.
9. The Martial Arts begin with a point and end in a circle. Straight lines stems from this principle.
10. The true essence of the Martial Way can only be realized through experience. Knowing this, learn never to fear its demands.
11 Always remember: In the Martial Arts the rewards of a confident and grateful heart are truly abundant.
by Masutatsu Oyama
founder of Kyokushin Karate
2. Following the Martial Way is like scaling a cliff - continue upwards without rest. It demands absolute and unfaltering devotion to the task at hand.
3. Strive to seize the initiative in all things, all the time guarding against actions stemming from selfish animosity or thoughtlessness.
4. Even for the Martial Artist, the place of money cannot be ignored. Yet one should be careful never to become attached to it.
5. The Martial Way is centred in posture. Strive to maintain correct posture at all times.
6. The Martial Way begins with one thousand days and is mastered after ten thousand days of training.
7. In the Martial Arts, introspection begets wisdom. Always see contemplation on your actions as an opportunity to improve.
8. The nature and purpose of the Martial Way is universal. All selfish desires should be roasted in the tempering fires of hard training.
9. The Martial Arts begin with a point and end in a circle. Straight lines stems from this principle.
10. The true essence of the Martial Way can only be realized through experience. Knowing this, learn never to fear its demands.
11 Always remember: In the Martial Arts the rewards of a confident and grateful heart are truly abundant.
by Masutatsu Oyama
founder of Kyokushin Karate
Kyokushin Dojokun
Hitotsu, wareware wa, shinshin o renmashi, kakko fubatsu no shingi o kiwameru koto.
We will train our hearts and bodies for a firm unshaken spirit.
Hitotsu, wareware wa, bu no shinzui o kiwame, ki ni hasshi, kan ni bin naru koto.
We will pursue the true meaning of the martial way so that, in time, our senses may be alert.
Hitotsu, wareware wa, shitsujitsu goken o motte, kokki no seishin o kanyo suru koto.
With true vigour, we will seek to cultivate a spirit of self-denial.
Hitotsu, wareware wa, reisetsu o omonji, chojo o keishi, sobo no furumai o tsutsushimu koto.
We will observe the rules of courtesy, respect our superiors, and refrain from violence.
Hitotsu, wareware wa, shinbutsu o totobi, kenjo no bitoku o wasurezaru koto.
We will follow our religious principles and never forget the true virtue of humility.
Hitotsu, wareware wa, chisei to tairyoku to o kojo sase, koto ni nozonde ayamatazaru koto.
We will look upwards to wisdom and strength, not seeking other desires.
Hitotsu, wareware wa, shogai no shugyo o karate no michi ni tsuji, Kyokushin no michi o mattou suru koto.
All our lives, through the discipline of karate, we will seek to fulfill the true meaning of the Kyokushin way.
We will train our hearts and bodies for a firm unshaken spirit.
Hitotsu, wareware wa, bu no shinzui o kiwame, ki ni hasshi, kan ni bin naru koto.
We will pursue the true meaning of the martial way so that, in time, our senses may be alert.
Hitotsu, wareware wa, shitsujitsu goken o motte, kokki no seishin o kanyo suru koto.
With true vigour, we will seek to cultivate a spirit of self-denial.
Hitotsu, wareware wa, reisetsu o omonji, chojo o keishi, sobo no furumai o tsutsushimu koto.
We will observe the rules of courtesy, respect our superiors, and refrain from violence.
Hitotsu, wareware wa, shinbutsu o totobi, kenjo no bitoku o wasurezaru koto.
We will follow our religious principles and never forget the true virtue of humility.
Hitotsu, wareware wa, chisei to tairyoku to o kojo sase, koto ni nozonde ayamatazaru koto.
We will look upwards to wisdom and strength, not seeking other desires.
Hitotsu, wareware wa, shogai no shugyo o karate no michi ni tsuji, Kyokushin no michi o mattou suru koto.
All our lives, through the discipline of karate, we will seek to fulfill the true meaning of the Kyokushin way.
Kanku
The symbol of Kyokushin Karate is the Kanku, which is derived from Kanku Kata, the Sky Gazing Form. In this kata, the hands are raised and the fingers meet to form an opening through which the sky is viewed. The top and bottom points of the Kanku represent the first fingers of each hand touching at the top and the thumbs touching at the bottom, symbolizing the peaks or ultimate points. The thick sections at the sides represent the wrists, symbolizing power. The center circle represents the opening between the hands through which the sky is viewed, symbolizing infinite depth. The whole Kanku is enclosed by a circle, symbolizing continuity and circular action.
Kyokushinkai Kan
Masutatsu Oyama, the founder of the largest Karate organization started a
nd established Bare-knuckle, Full-contact tournament system one of the top authoritative and influential figures in the world of Martial Arts history one of the pioneers in spreading the Asian Martial Arts to the West and to all over the world ever pursuing, ever a practitioner, he is recognized to be reached to the level of the true 
Mastery.
Kyoku = Ultimate, utmost
Shin = Truth, truthfulness
Kai = Organization
Kan = Building, School
The kanji (Japanese characters) calligraphy, worn universally on the front of the gi, simply means "Kyokushinkai", which is the name given by Sosai Mas Oyama to the karate style he created. It is composed of three characters:
nd established Bare-knuckle, Full-contact tournament system one of the top authoritative and influential figures in the world of Martial Arts history one of the pioneers in spreading the Asian Martial Arts to the West and to all over the world ever pursuing, ever a practitioner, he is recognized to be reached to the level of the true 
Mastery.Kyoku = Ultimate, utmost
Shin = Truth, truthfulness
Kai = Organization
Kan = Building, School
The kanji (Japanese characters) calligraphy, worn universally on the front of the gi, simply means "Kyokushinkai", which is the name given by Sosai Mas Oyama to the karate style he created. It is composed of three characters:
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Founder of Kyokushin Karate
The founder of our system, Masutatsu Oyama was born in 1923 near Seoul in South Korea. He studied Chinese Kempo at 9 years of age. When he was 12, he went to Japan to live and enrolled at University. After mastering Judo, he became a pupil of Gichin Funakoshi himself making such rapid progress that at 17 he was 2nd Dan and at 24became 4th Dan. Deciding that he wanted to devote the rest of his life to spreading the knowledge of Karate, he spent the next year in seclusion from human society, living in temples and in the mountains; subjecting himself to the physical rigours of martial arts training day and night and meditating on Zen precepts, seeking enlightenment. In 1951 he returned to civilisation and started hi
s own training hall in Tokyo.
In 1952, he travelled the United States for a year, demonstrating his karate live and on national television. During subsequent years, he took on all challengers, resulting in fights with 270 different people. The vast majority of these were defeated with one punch! A fight never lasted more than three minutes, and most rarely lasted more than a few seconds. His fighting principle was simple — if he got through to you, that was it.
In 1953, Mas Oyama opened his first "Dojo", a grass lot in Mejiro in Tokyo. In 1956, the first real Dojo was opened in a former ballet studio behind Rikkyo University, 500 meters from the location of the current Japanese Honbu dojo (headquarters). By 1957 there were 700 members, despite the high drop-out rate due to the harshness of training.
Sadly, Sosai Mas Oyama died, of lung cancer (as
a non-smoker), at the age of 70 in April 1994, leaving the then 5th Dan Akiyoshi Matsui in charge of the organisation. This has had many political and economic ramifications throughout the Kyokushin world, which are still being resolved. In the end, the result may well be a splintering of Kyokushin, much like Shotokan now appears to have done, with each group claiming to be the one-and-only true heir of Mas Oyama's Kyokushin, either spiritually or even financially. It has even been suggested, not entirely in jest, by one Kyokushin writer in Australia (Harry Rogers) that maybe Oyama created the turmoil on purpose, because he didn't want Kyokushin to survive without him! It is however reasonably certain that all Kyokushin groups, regardless of their ultimate allegiance, will still maintain the standards set by Mas Oyama.
s own training hall in Tokyo.In 1952, he travelled the United States for a year, demonstrating his karate live and on national television. During subsequent years, he took on all challengers, resulting in fights with 270 different people. The vast majority of these were defeated with one punch! A fight never lasted more than three minutes, and most rarely lasted more than a few seconds. His fighting principle was simple — if he got through to you, that was it.
In 1953, Mas Oyama opened his first "Dojo", a grass lot in Mejiro in Tokyo. In 1956, the first real Dojo was opened in a former ballet studio behind Rikkyo University, 500 meters from the location of the current Japanese Honbu dojo (headquarters). By 1957 there were 700 members, despite the high drop-out rate due to the harshness of training.
Sadly, Sosai Mas Oyama died, of lung cancer (as
a non-smoker), at the age of 70 in April 1994, leaving the then 5th Dan Akiyoshi Matsui in charge of the organisation. This has had many political and economic ramifications throughout the Kyokushin world, which are still being resolved. In the end, the result may well be a splintering of Kyokushin, much like Shotokan now appears to have done, with each group claiming to be the one-and-only true heir of Mas Oyama's Kyokushin, either spiritually or even financially. It has even been suggested, not entirely in jest, by one Kyokushin writer in Australia (Harry Rogers) that maybe Oyama created the turmoil on purpose, because he didn't want Kyokushin to survive without him! It is however reasonably certain that all Kyokushin groups, regardless of their ultimate allegiance, will still maintain the standards set by Mas Oyama.
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