Japanese Karate - Dynamic & Effective


Major Karate Styles

Take the 4 big established Japanese Karate styles - Shotokan, Goju ryu, Shito Ryu and Wado Ryu - add Shukokai (a version of Shito Ryu) and Kyokushin, then throw in some variations and that’s almost it !

Karate Dojos in Japan

There’s more of course - hundreds of thousands of Karate schools worldwide all doing recognizable types of Karate - traditional budo, progressive, hybrid or cutting-edge sport and all of them share a common line back to Japan through one or more of the major styles.


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Kyokushin Karate Japanese Karate is primarily a striking art. All styles use similar moves; blows made with the closed fist, the open hand, the legendary Karate Chop, the elbow, feet and knees as well as an array of blocks, deflections, sweeps, throws - even grappling.

Some Karate schools train with weapons even although Karate means ‘empty hand’. Moves vary depending on the philosophy of the style and whether the emphasis is on destructive power or subduing an attacker. Whether a Karate kick or punch is delivered with the raw power of Kyokushin, the speed and finesse of Wado Ryu, the immovable strength of Goju Ryu or the dynamism and depth of Shotokan, it's still a kick or a punch only the method changes.


The Three K's

Common to all forms of Japanese Karate are 3 aspects known as; Kihon (basic training) Kumite (sparring) and Kata (formal exercise). Again the emphasis on these varies from style to style but the similarities in actual moves across all the different schools are unmistakable.


Shotokan

Best Style?

To the most asked question “Which Karate style or school is best?” - there can’t be a definitive answer because it only raises another question - “Best for what?" If comparisons or judgments need to be made, it’s better to ask “What suits ME best?” and to consider what it is YOU actually want out of Karate. - Self defence?

- Confidence, discipline, mental toughness?

- Fitness, strength, flexibility, co-ordination?

- Sporting Results, medals, titles, recognition?

Some styles offer all of these in good proportion and some emphasize one or more aspect over the others. But one thing’s for sure - Karate training is up there as one of the best all-round physical and mental workouts you will get anywhere.


Shotokan, Wado Ryu, Goju Ryu or ??

Wado Karate Some Japanese Karate styles are more suited to certain ages and body types - but it depends what you want to achieve and the amount of time and effort you are prepared to put in.

A styles effectiveness has little to do with the style itself it has much more to do with; the quality of instruction (good teachers stand out from the crowd), individual training intensity (temporary is not an option - you have to do the yards) but above all, the most critical element is the Karateka (student) mindset.

These are the things that make Karate effective - ‘styleis secondary.

At dynamic-karate we practice Shotokan the most popular form of Karate inside and outside of Japan. If you follow the links below you’ll find some easy to digest information about the Shotokan style and the other major styles and groups.


The Aim of Japanese Karate

Karate aims for more than physical perfection of technique, it aspires to building character. All styles have a code of conduct called “Dojo Kun” (training hall rules) usually spoken out loud at each class. This is much more than club etiquette - more a set of values and guidelines as to what is expected of those who practice.

Ultimate Aim of Karate

Karate’s highest ideal has nothing to do with conflict or violence. All styles agree the most important thing is self-control without it this potentially lethal art would be no better than a loaded gun in the hands of a criminal.

Peace harmony and non-violence are central Karate principles. From novice to master, Karate people train to become responsible human beings and law abiding citizens.

Listen to the Shotokan Dojo Kun

Shotokan Dojo Kun


Reasons to Learn

Traditional Karate attracts all kinds of folks because it is a low cost activity with endless benefits...

  • Inexpensive - For what you get out of it, Karate is not expensive. Start-up costs and dues are modest. There’s no equipment to buy!
  • Easy Entry - Anyone can learn. You don't need experience or qualifications to start. Most schools have start-up programs for any age or ability.
  • Low Maintenance - Training is done barefoot. You’ll need a belt, a uniform, a kit bag and a water bottle. Oh and keep your uniform clean - that’s it.
  • Popular - Everybody knows somebody who does Japanese Karate! Some of the big names doing it include; Dolf Lundgren, Richard Norton, Wesley Snipes, James Caan, Jean-Claude van Damme, Lyoto Machida, Luca Valdesi...
  • Life Changing - If you embark on the lifelong path of Karate-Do (the 'way' of Karate) over time you will build the framework for a meaningful life, one that benefits you and everyone around you.


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