Can Okinawan Martial Systems be Classified as "Koryu?"

Koryu [古流] 

The characters/ideograms mean "old school (of art); old style; old manners." The first character means, "old," the second character means, "current; a sink; flow; forfeit." 

Koryu relates to the ancient traditional or classical martial arts. The old/classic dojo is to study the arts of classic combat, including the use of weaponry and was a primary goal of samurai training. It is an old tradition that is carried on in its original form, i.e. as close to the original as humanly possible.

My post today regards the use of the term "koryu." Can it be used to symbolize the art of karate from Okinawa? Can the current systems and styles be classified under this term? Is the referenced traditional system of karate called "Ti" or "Toudi" of old Okinawan be classified as a koryu of Okinawa? Is this term exclusive to the ancient arts of Japanese martial systems? 

First, the term koryu as to the sources I use for terms, characters and ideograms says that it means "old school; old style; old manners." If I were to go with this stand alone definition per those sources then I would say that as long as one used the term in conjunction with the words "Okinawa or Old Okinawan or Ancient Okinawa" then it would apply especially since Okinawa was and is a territory of Japan. 

I am not saying that everyone could or should use the term. I am saying "it could be applied just like the terms traditional and classical." It seems logical and yet I suspect that those who actually practice and teach Japanese Koryu systems would disagree. 

I would also provide for consideration the following from the site "koryu.com" as to what koryu literally means, i.e. "Koryu literally means "old flow" and is used in Japanese to refer to old styles, schools, or traditions (not necessarily only in the martial arts)."

If I used this exclusively toward my theory of Okinawan martial systems then I would say that they are considered "Okinawan Koryu." What I noticed on the koryu.com site is the inclusion of the word "bujutsu" as in "koryu bujutsu." This is how that particular site classifies "Japanese Classical Martial Arts."

The site does postulate that koryu bujutsu are those arts that actually came into existence when actually used on the battlefield. When they speak of classical traditions the tell us that they were developed by and for bushi, the warriors of Japan. They also have a "sort of lineage" that runs back through each head master to the founder of the system or tradition. Apparently it is important to establish the "stream" of the tradition, a single flow from one head master through its practitioners and to the next generation. In addition the waza or techniques of a koryu system must keep its battlefield essence, context or characteristics and that the design of the original remain intact for battlefield use. 

Then the question remains, if this is a true definition, meaning and context of koryu the does the Okinawan system actually meet those standards to be considered a koryu system, i.e. traditional/classical combative systems? 

Or are we to assume that since Okinawans seldom fought on the battlefield, i.e. I am not sure we can count the battles fought on ships transporting goods from various Asian countries through and to Okinawa while fighting off pirates, etc. Even the so called battles against the incursion of the Japanese in the early 1600's. 

Then there is the social structure that seems to be part and parcel to koryu systems. The site states, "In the true traditions, culture and technique are part of a cohesive whole that includes the head master, traditional licenses, and a unique code of behavior." Do Okinawan traditions of Ti or Toudi have these three traditions? 

I can only speak from my limited perspective, knowledge and understanding. Okinawan karate as it stand today in the West would not meet these and other standards, none of them regardless of what is professed by the leaders of those systems. On Okinawa there are a few Ti traditions that could possibly meet these standards so I would possibly assume they could be considered Okinawan Koryu. 

Finally for this exercise we come to the student-teacher relationship that seems to be unique to the Japanese Koryu systems. You need to have had direct contact, through your sensei possibly, with the head master or other fully licensed instructor. The social structure of student and teacher is considered the core of the systems social structure and technical transmission. The practitioners are actually taught on an individual basis geared toward that unique individual so the training and teaching will thus be different as from practitioner to practitioner. There are no "dan" or "dan'i" systems and when a practitioner is ready the license is grated by that systems head master.

In this part I feel none of the Okinawan systems including the Ti or Toudi systems are to be considered "koryu or Okinawan Koryu." None of the Okinawan martial systems have a licensing system, they all use a dan-i or dan grade system. That system of dan grades is not all encompassing of any system or style but from dojo to dojo and sensei to sensei is more of a personal system of grading. 

Then in most if not all systems I perceive work on a class structure of many practitioners working together similar to school systems where the individualized teachings may be there in a more simplistic form and the class teaching environment dominates so this would exclude those systems form Okinawa Koryu type status. It is just the loss of the stream or connection to the original founders that seems to be missing. There are claims of those who trained with said founders but without the stream of licenses, students and teachers all the way back to the founder it is just a personal unsubstantiated claim. Okinawan's, especially due to WWII, lost any and all of their historical documents, what there was of it in the first place, due to the devastation of the war on Okinawa. 

My personal conclusion after this short, terse, discussion or posting tells me that no one who practices an Okinawan martial system can make use of the term koryu even with the designation of Okinawan. The necessary criteria can not be met. We will have to remain with the some what convoluted and disjointed term of modern, traditional and classical martial systems. 

Truly, the definition that is given at the koryu.com site by those best known as Western Koryu practitioners, teachers and knowledgable of koryu is the one that defines it completely and wholeheartedly. Even tho the definitions provided by translation sources provide the more terse definitions that would lead some to think it applies to Okinawan karate or martial systems, it does not appy as the additional accepted definitions that go back to the origins are the true meaning of koryu. 

Please take a moment to visit the koryu site, i.e. "A Koryu Primer" by Diane Skoss, and get the full picture. The definitions provided are pretty exacting and other sources I have researched support this one fully and completely.

Are you comfortable wearing your black belt?

No, I am not. I have never been truly comfortable wearing a black belt. It holds a special meaning to me and to this day I have difficulty wearing it in front of people. When the day came I was told that I could wear a red and white paneled belt. I had more ease wearing that then the black belt. I suspect it was because on some subconscious level it relieved me of wearing the black belt. The black belt can be intimidating. 

I used this mind-set to remind me to leave my comfort zone. I try to do that as much as possible without going so far that my health suffers for it, i.e. anxiety, stress, etc. I want it to be beneficial so I can use it in the proper context. As I assumed higher levels of the black belt I would have a bit more apprehension when I would put my obi on. 

Is this because psychologically I am placing too much emphasis on the power of an inanimate object? Am I giving this symbol too much power and importance? It depends on just how much I give it and how much I allow it to cause discomfort. I believe the discomfort is a positive thing much like my use of it as a reminder to live outside the comfort zone as needed. 

I do feel that the black belt is given way to much importance in the dojo and in the martial arts community. Other than the importance that an individual decides to give it for themselves it is not all that important in the community itself simply because it is an individual perception and perspective and that is the way it should be for that person. 

The black belt in essence is simply a symbol that a person has reached a level of knowledge, experience, training and practice that says they are a serious practitioner. It symbolizes their personal commitment to their efforts in this discipline. It is also a symbol that signifies the obligation one assumes as it relates to their commitment to the system and the relationship with others in the same discipline. It can be a symbol that one has committed themselves to their betterment and the leadership that assume to provide example to others who may want to follow the systems path, the same path as the black belt wearer is walking. It symbolizes a huge responsibility to the individual that transcends the self, the ego and the pride of that individual. 

The black belt symbolizes a desire for constant improvement not only in the system but in the self and through actions and deeds influence those who choose to associate and dedicate themselves to a discipline. 

When I put on the black belt I often think of my responsibilities to others and to myself and am humbled by the immensity of that commitment and the resolve I have to meet it. It reminds me that I still have a way to go and that I have come far. When I think of the black it symbolizes the blackness of the space that surrounds the entire universe that has not true measurable depth or breadth but limitless and all encompassing. The fact that we create a circle, a circle symbolized infinity, with it around our waste, hara, we are reminded along with the blackness of the belt that it is all encompassing, vast, huge and immeasurable. The same is said to where we were, where we are and where we are going. 

So, yes, the discomfort I feel every time I put a black belt on speaks to me of things that are important to what I do, say and believe. It is a culture and belief that supports and supplements my life and how I live it. Yet, it is just a cloth colored black that wraps twice around my waist giving me the discomfort yet supporting and holding me fast to my commitment to be the best I can be and to pass that along to whomever chooses to listen. 

Black belt, not much but still a lot. Depends on you and how you look at things. I talk to much!

What makes a system good for self-defense?

This is such a difficult question and I believe there are not pat answers. Regardless, I will try my best to answer it from a very narrow perspective, i.e. my perceptions as to what it is that makes a system good for self-defense?

This answer does not contain specifics such as when this happens you do this technique or combination, etc. This is a very small part of SD training and practice but it does not cover all the bases. 

First, what is the systems syllabus? It is important to make sure a system for SD encompasses all the aspects involved in self-defense. It should address the before, during and after of any violent conflict. It must span from before you encounter it, while you are in it and then what happens after it occurs. 

Second, if must begin with what you need to know in order to recognize all violence. It must encompass those mind-set training that prepare the mind long before you go out and expect it to work. It must provide a solid knowledge of what violence is and how it works in all varieties. It all must be realistic.

Third, it must also allow for a reality based training and practice regimen that begins with the practice and training of what, when, how and why things lead you into conflicts. It must allow for the reality based training and practice that gives you the tools to handle things before you encounter conflict. It must allow for a reality based training and practice of what you need to accomplish when in a conflict zone and it must cover all the variables for that moment of conflict, i.e. each moment is unique and training and practice must address this. It must allow for a reality based training and practice for what you need to know, understand and do when you leave the conflict, i.e. the repercussions and after affects. 

Fourth, look to the instructor to see their history and experience. If they don't have a lot of experience or if their experience is within the system itself or if there is no experience in violent conflicts then look to their sources, look to their training and practice history, look to the same in their sources as well. 

If it fails to address the before, during and after; if it fails to address the mental/psychological, the spiritual, and the physical; if it fails to address the mental/psychological, legal and civil repercussions then your system needs further self-analysis to encompass all aspects of self-defense. 

It is too easy to drop into the particulars of SD including falling prey to the influences of advertisements and claims of any system. It is easy to succumb to the thrills found in all martial systems or any SD system. It is easy to fall prey to a perceived expert in a SD system.

Remember that SD is serious business. It has far reaching repercussions that will affect your entire life after, your families entire life after and your economic stability for your entire life after. 

In closing I want to say that this short terse post on what makes a good self-defense system is not all encompassing but rather a means to make you think long before you rely heavily on your local self-defense school. Buyer beware. The after of all SD is something you will deal with for a long, long time. Your ability to handle it before, during and after depend on your foundation of knowledge and experience. Failure to go the distance in your own behalf is your sole responsibility. If you fail to choose wisely you will have to look to yourself simply because you are the one choosing and deciding on your SD system.

p.s. as to SD systems, all systems have the potential to be good. All of them have the potential to be horrible. You can find a solid SD system if you do the footwork first and choose wisely. It could be anything and don't allow anyone to tell you one is either good or not good for SD, make that decision yourself.

Why are martial arts weapons illegal?

Well, a complex question with a complex answer. You say now, not so Charles yet it is true. It is like describing the complexities of self defense and that in my view is the crux of the issue. This may apply to all perceptions as to weapons and legalities. 

First, it is about perception. The laws are often created due to misconceptions by society. This is fed by media manipulation. The way the news depicts things, etc. that are from ignorance and a lack of effort to truly seek out truth and knowledge. It is as natural as anything human, we just do this stuff naturally. 

Second, if society perceives it as an aggressive tool for doing violence then it will hardly ever be allowable for use in self defense or self protection. Even if in the home it can be perceived this way and result in prosecution and jail. If you have the ability in your home to run your obligated to do so within unspecified parameters and if you use some weapon then how you use it and when you stop using it can change home defense into violent aggressive attacks against that poor defenseless son of some family who say he was such a good boy who just happened to go astray type thing. Think I am kidding, they used stories similar to these in the NRA magazine, when I was a member so long ago, to get laughs, etc. 

In California it took just one incident that made the news, as if often the case, that inflamed the general population into perceiving such things as shuriken, nunchaku, etc. as deadly weapons so they became illegal. It is the way humans work at all levels. It is how misperceptions come about and it is life so live with it. 

Do you really need those weapons and do you really think that society, even if not illegal, will allow you to use them in defense? If they did, don't you think that how you use them, when you use them and the perceptions of that usage are going to most often lead to charges, trial and conviction? 

This just begs the question  as to why all this stuff is not discussed and taught in most self defense training models. I guess it is just plain dumb luck since about 90% of all SD trainees and graduates will never, ever encounter such situations requiring SD actions. 

Avoidance and deescalation, etc. are the true fundamentals of self defense in my view. So, in closing, if weapons are made illegal then think outside the box on how you can avoid violence and if you can't how you can deescalate it and if you can't then how you apply self defense appropriately to not get too much damage, to escape quickly and to not get charged and convicted of fighting or violent conflicts, etc. 

Come on everyone, think about this stuff. Ok, off the soap box!

Why did you stop competing at tournaments?

Simple, politics and control. When you find yourself reacting to the frustration that comes with such things it is better to walk away then allow yourself to succumb. 

I remember one time a solid technique did not garner notice from any of the four judges. I asked, they said they didn't see it and it wasn't effective. I bowed politely and when the next command to begin came I applied the same technique with power and got disqualified for excessive force. It worked just fine and this time they observed it.

Now, I don't advocate this type of thing. I was fairly young and inexperienced with karate as I had only been doing it solid for about three years and I was young and a gung-ho Marine, etc. Still no excuse but I decided at that moment to walk away, it was just not worth it. 

I believe it was the right path for me. With the type of tournaments gone bad observed on youtube as can be seen at Martial View, i.e. he posted on a youtube video of a contest gone bad, post titled, "Karate Characters." 

Why do we use Japanese terminology and other Asian customs when we practice a martial art?

Good question. My answer is mine from my perspective. I cannot speak to all those out there who may have differing opinions and perceptions. I see it on several levels.

First, is the one that makes a person feel like they are involved in something unique, mystical and authenticate. It doesn't matter that none of us has the training, understanding, cultural beliefs and life that would make us fluent in Asian ways. We tend to pick and choose to fit our own idea's and what makes it exciting and fun is what we do vs. getting deeply involved in the entire way, i.e. budo, culture and beliefs not to forget living as Asians. 

Second, there are those who use such things as a means of promotion. Not promotion as in belts but rather commercial income driven promotion. Knowing that many assume that adhering to such things Asian makes it true, authenticate and valid they use the terms and others accouterments to entice the uninitiated into signing contracts and paying big monies to achieve a black belt status with all that it may or may not entail. 

Third, is the egoistic reasoning that all things with power, prestige and cultish economic gain that boosts the pride and builds the ego along with overcoming low self-esteem issues so they dive in with a fervor unparalleled anywhere to give the perceptions and impressions of greatness, etc. 

Some will read this and be offended. Some will say, hey you use this stuff. Yes, I do, for my own education and to pass along material that I feel benefits the understanding of the heritage that rides with martial systems. Like anything worth learning you may want to encompass all aspects including the history, culture and beliefs of those who pass this stuff down to us. That in and of itself connects us to the past, present and prepares us for the future. Knowing the past means we learn from it and are able to NOT repeat mistakes past made. 

At one time I used the karate-gi, the obi's and some of the language and terms but not anymore. I am a westerner and American so I tend to try and teach that way but I do write about it so others can decide and absorb value as to their needs, wants and requirements. This is now more academia and if it gives us choices that are of value then so be it.

In closing, I am not Asian, Japanese or Okinawan. I am not fluent in either Japanese or Uchinaguchi so I won't try to use it except in making a point in some lesson. My gaol is to use such things to gain attention with the hopes that it will lead to knowledge and understanding for each person who reads my stuff. I enjoy reading, seeing or hearing terms and other things about martial systems so I can validate what it is and find answers to help me better understand what it is I do. 

Did the Okinawans develop their own belt system?

Apparently, yes. It may have been somewhere around the 1960's or so. There is not much documentation other than the word of a few but as to the system Isshinryu there are a couple of black and white photo's of Tatsuo-san wearing what appears to be a red belt with a gold stripe through the center. The photo of Tatsuo-san is dtd around the mid-sixties, i.e. 1966 - 68.

It would be nice to see the entire belt system from the Okinawans but alas all my inquiries have been, to date, ignored. The belt system seems to have fallen out of favor since the sixties and except on rare occasions the Okinawan karate systems seem to have remained with the generally accepted belt system based on those passed to us from the Japanese Judo system by Kano Sensei. 

Okinawan Dan System

1st - 3rd: black belt with silver strip in middle lengthwise

3rd - 6th: black belt with gold strip in middle lengthwise

7th - 9th: red belt with gold strip in middle lengthwise

10th: solid gold obi

1961 era development; not fully validated from any official Okinawan source to date.

Click for a larger view of this photo.

RyuTe RenMei: These type of belts were issued by the Zen Okinawa Karate Kobudo Rengo Kai. In this case "Zen" means all, as in all of Okinawa. Shortcut, All Okinawa. This organization existed between 1965 through the middle 70's. The belts were characterized by silver or gold stripes. The silver was for 1st and 2nd dan and gold for 3 through 6th dan, all on the black Obi. 7th and up was gold on red. The size of the stripe increased with the rank. ~ November 7, 2010 at 2:00pm FB Wall

Why have weapons taken a back seat to empty hand?

A recent posting about karate and kobudo got me to thinking about that relationship. It comes to mind that chiefly and predominantly weaponry, as to historical, was the primary much like it is today in professional circles to include military. 

When we hear or read about how karate came to be we often think of the edict taking weapons out of the hands of the non-military folks. That makes me think that before such edicts weapons dominated. It was not necessary to use empty handed systems unless you were caught without a weapon or a person was disarmed leaving only their empty hands to save their butts.

Think about this, mankind began with nothing but their minds and bodies to survive and the development of groups supplemented that survival method. As mankind progressed and developed the mind they conceived of a variety of weapons to supplement the body and achieve greater survival of the tribe along with hunting for food, etc.

Then as progress continued we developed greater weaponry taking the empty hand and putting it in the back of the truck just in case. All our development continued in this fashion relegating the human body as a chief weapon for survival as a tool used only when weaponry were not available or lost or disarmed, etc. then and only then were the empty hands, feet, elbows, and other strategies and tactics necessary for survival. 

Even in the many militaries through out history were empty hand or hand-to-hand combative systems taught and trained. It was only, as to the Asian connections, in recent history did this progressive practice get turned on its ear.

The disarmament edicts left some humans in a precarious situation regarding survival. This meant empty hand type systems became necessary against other empty hand and sometimes weaponry as to defense or survival. 

Now, push ahead to modern times and we have weaponry only as military defense along with civil police protections, etc. Weapons may be in the hands of the non-professionals simply because of antiquated rights but in a lot of cases how that weaponry is used is often determined excessive force or is perceived as something very bad. This takes a normal defense situation and puts it on rocky ground that can result in both criminal and civil repercussions.

Today's empty hand has become even more important to survival or in most cases of modern times, defense and protection. Now even empty hand is becoming questionable as to how it is applied and to what degree of force is used for protection. The line is very find indeed and crossing it can happen in an instance.

Weapons have taken a back seat because of our needs of security balanced out with psychological, criminal and civil repercussions that act somewhat like a weapon and empty hand disarmament or at least restrictions when applied in civil and even military applications. 

Today's martial system that has weapons now has been relegated to a distant historically based practice for more an academic perspective vs. combative application. The use of such weaponry today even in a perceived self-defense situation may be perceived as excessive and unnecessary making it illegal, etc. 

It brings to mind when you train in kobudo do you give thought to "is this weapon a good one for self-defense as to self-defense law along with force law, etc.?" Do you ask yourself questions such as this as you train in kobudo?

Lastly, karate and kobudo are two separate distinct systems that are often mislabeled as karate. One is not required for the other. Both can hold their own as separate martial systems. That they can benefit one another in a holistic manner does not lessen their uniqueness and separateness but rather allow for greater understanding overall when combined. 

What is the very first thing you teach a newbie?

Tate-ken [縦拳] or the vertical fist in most Isshinryu halls. Why? Because it has become a symbol of the system since Tatsuo-san is believed to have been the first Okinawan karate master to actually recognize and use it in lieu of the more traditional twisting punch [転拳]. 

Then I asked myself, many years later, why do I bother teaching the tate-ken to newbie's? Why indeed simply because most individuals already know how to make a fist instinctively. Now, one might argue that making a fist and making one properly to be effective is behind teaching the tate-ken. I disagree wholeheartedly simply because as a newbie progresses to say the makiwara or use of the heavy bag it will become apparent to them whether the fist is properly used. This allows them to feel fully involved with the system of learning with greater feedback than articulating the tate-ken or any fist for that matter.

There is another reason as well. It may seem or be perceived as teaching down to the person since making a fist is natural and instinctive. It is something they have been doing since birth so why would you assume the person cannot make a proper fist. Then I take into consideration that it is more important to start introducing the fundamental principles of martial systems that are the foundation of the techniques, etc. used. 

Look at it like asking a practitioner to go-back-to-the-basics vs. fundamental principles. We equate basics as something a newbie does while most at this stage have earned a higher level. It can seem demeaning to the person when it is better to build on their efforts and progress in lieu of sending them back to the perceived beginning. 

It is better to introduce the newbie to the principles that govern the punch all the way from cocking at the waist (beginner stuff only as this will change in time) or chambering through the entire cycle keeping the body, arm and fist aligned and moving in a more economical and powerful way, etc. This will seem kind of simplistic but it is just an example to get the old gray matter thinking in a inventive and creative way.

I have trained for years, why didn't my training work?

When a fellow martial artist contacted me he was really down in the dumps because his years of training failed him in a moderately dangerous situation. He survived, I consider this to be a success regardless, but wanted to know why all that training and practice failed him.

There are many reasons and they may or may not be contributed to the training and practice itself. It may have been excellent stuff but if certain principles have not been addressed then it has a greater chance of not working. Remember that even those professionals who deal with violence almost daily suffer from things not working from time to time. It is like they say that everyone freezes, everyone. It happens for a variety of reasons and I asked my friend to let it go for now, relax and let himself off the hook. 

Once he accomplishes this then go back and self-reflect and self-analyze the actual situation. Try to discover why it happened to not work "this time." Then take it to someone who can stand outside of it and help you see what it was that may have caused the failure to work. You may find out that it could be something simple that happened to occur at the wrong time and has nothing to do with training, practice and the application of your martial art.

I like the quote below from a recent post at the Chiron blog by Rory Miller regarding conditioning, training, and play to make it work. 

Responses that have only been trained seem to require experience before they can be accessed under stress. - Rory Miller, Chiron Blog "Three Things."

p.s. this is not the full picture on this subject. it is just a glimpse and I recommend you find the complete story by individual research.

PDF Books Available

Greetings and Salutations All: I have worked toward compiling two small pdf books as an exercises and learning effort on terminologies for martial arts as well as my interpretation of the karate koan most call the ken-po goku-i. I didn't do this to publish for money and I don't plan on trying to charge for these two pdf books in the future.

I am making them available free to whomever wishes to obtain them for study and reflection. If you would be interested in reading them simply send me an email address that I can send them to as attachments. Please note that I am still editing them both so you will find errors and omissions within as to grammar, spelling, punctuation, etc. I have a friend who is an editor who has graciously consented to edit the ken-po goku-i effort. When it is done I plan of notifying those who ask for a copy so they can have an updated and hopefully fully edited final edition.

The terminology pdf book is not what you might normally find as it does not give technical/technique oriented terms but rather terms of a teaching/martial philosophical nature. I had this one as a blog for a while but decided it might better serve those who are interested to have a pdf version available to either read and use via electronic means, i.e. either a computer like the iPad or a kindle reader type thing. 

So, send your email to isshin.do.karate@gmail.com and I will gladly send you one or the other or both for your reading pleasure. I would ask that if you do that you give me your review of them, if you wouldn't mind, when you have read them. - Thanks!

Why do we use the Japanese terms in karate?

I have often wondered why this particular part of western karate training exists. I already know that I tend to use terms, characters, and ideograms of Japanese origins to help teach and explain various aspects of the system I practice with emphasis on learning and understanding the culture and belief systems of our heritage to the martial arts. 

It also may be the mystique associated with samurai, marital arts from Asia and a form or type of connection that humans gravitate toward naturally and instinctually. It may give a sense of belonging to a group or tribe that is built on instinctual survival of the human condition. The question here is, "does this actually add value to teaching, learning and practice/application? It depends.

It is also a question regarding the use of the so called traditional karate uniform. The uniform as well is not truly traditional in the sense that connects back historically because it is barely a hundred years old, maybe even less since Okinawan's didn't embrace it completely until maybe the forties or fifties, 1940's/1950's etc. Again it connects us.

I use terms and kanji, etc. characters along with the varied meanings to help make a connection to the cultures and beliefs historically connected to the system I practice. I also use them as a means to teach other more esoteric things necessary to balance out the physical with the spiritual. I don't require memorization of such terms but rather a sense of their importance if one desires the full spectrum of martial arts connectivity, both present and past. 

Whether a practitioner uses Uraken or simply "back fist" to explain the use of the back fist in defense is not a matter of great importance. Requiring such knowledge to make things sound "martial or Asian" is not that important. Knowing when, how and why it is used is more important. 

Why I tend to gravitate toward terms that would appear more philosophical in nature is because I feel the connection to the who, when, where and why of the martial system I practice is more relevant and that speaks to things like avoidance and deescalation over using a back fist to some person's face seems important over knowing a language of terms that often are not accurate or correct. 

If one uses them and does so with some semblance of accuracy is ok but I feel getting mired down with this stands at a lower level of importance. This is why I tend to keep such things documented as a reference rather than trying to impress my ego with the ability to recite martial arts Japanese/Okinawan/Chinese terms and characters. 

In the end it is just fun to do as long as it is taken with a grain of skepticism unless you are born, raised and are Japanese, Okinawan or Chinese. 

In the end I would rather master an understanding of how to properly apply martial arts in its full spectrum over knowing terms and characters, etc. 

What is a dojo?

A recent question asked and answered very well as will be indicated in the following. 

A dojo as a place where you learn budo. The main way in which a dojo is distinctive from a club has...”little to do with the architecture of the place or the way people dress for training; the distinction has everything to do with the nature of the struggle going on inside each individual.” - Michael Clarke

The essence of what a dojo is is determined by the internal struggle of the individual. It, as stated so eloquently by Mr. Clarke, is not a place with special architectural designs as found in older more traditional dojo buildings in Asia. It is not about the internal trappings such as a layout and zen or Buddhist trappings. It is not about the uniform you wear, if any. It is about the struggle you encounter when you practice in a traditionally oriented dojo environment. 

In Michael Clarke’s words…”Without a spirited assault on your ego, the true value of karate will remain forever beyond your reach”. A “spirited assault” involves a lot of hard, physical training, self examination and reflection as well as personal reading and research.

A dojo is a place in your environment where one takes up the challenge in overcoming your ego, pride and other such external trappings of the spirit. It is more in line with self reflection and self examination using a singular practice of a system that involves the spirit, mind and body. 

In a dojo the student is expected to take full responsibility for their own training. The onus is on them to make progress.

The distinction of the dojo as a place in misleading. A dojo is anywhere one places a personal effort toward training, practice and application of the full spectrum of a martial system encompassing the essence of a budo art be it karate, kobudo or other system of which there are many. 

The practice of budo is an individual and lonely path by definition so it shouldn’t matter too much what environment you train in. 

Even when in a group exchanging practices, trainings and experiences one is truly still practicing and training from an individual state. A dojo, regardless of when, where and how, is simply a place where one trains budo, i.e. at your desk, on a walk outside, or in a place built with a particular goal of providing space in which one can reflect, examine and apply the spirit, mind and body effort of martial arts properly. 

Read also: When a dojo is not a dojo

Happy Holidays Everyone

As the week progresses we get a bit closer to the annual celebration we call Christmas. Since there are many who celebrate in different ways I tend to just wish every one a happy holiday since regardless of beliefs those who reside here in the America's tend to take that time as a holiday I felt it generic enough to express happiness and joy for the season while, hopefully, not offending anyone.

I will be at work till this Friday which means I will be in the Bloggersphere but after Friday until the morning of the second of January "2013" I will be on holiday with my wife, three cats and poodle dog. Have a great holiday everyone if I don't hear from you; I wish us all the best for 2013!!!!

Belief or How I Should Have Address the CFA Article

When I first read the article I almost assumed that it was true. One reason is I believed one of the sources to be accurate and factual. I also assumed that because it came out in a periodical that I respected as a good source on traditional/classical martial arts it must be accurate in its content. These are all because I "believed" certain things only to find out that my beliefs and assumptions, although good, were in this case not accurate.

I was thrilled to see an article on the system/branch of karate I love to practice and train at. I was thrilled that one of the supposed sources was someone I respected and admired for the efforts this person has and is going to for the art of Isshinryu and out of respect for Tatsuo-san. But once again those beliefs, as they often do, influenced my mind into initially accepting something that was not true.

Belief is a very strong part of human nature. It is belief that drives us, protects us and helps us to survive and evolve. When a belief becomes something written in stone then we have the danger of stagnation, misunderstandings and conflict. This is especially true when one fails to make adjustments to a belief as time passes, evolution progresses and environment, etc. require we change. This has happened in today's Isshinryu. 

One such belief has become so ingrained in one individual that it has resulted in lies, misunderstandings and misconceptions that are hurtful and wrong not to forget inaccurate and incorrect. This one individual has allowed their own beliefs and other such mundane issues as power and control to reduce their maturity to a level of a monkey driven child who does not know any better and cause actions and accusations toward others that is uncalled for and unnecessary and hurtful to the evolution and growth of Isshinryu. 

We encounter many things in life that will challenge our beliefs. When challenged our nature is instinctually to resist and refute even when it is necessary, correct, accurate and validated but that is simply to urge us to question critically the new information in an unbiased way so we can perceive and possibly accept it making for new and improved beliefs. 

Shamefully this is not happening in the case of the CFA Isshinryu article in the recent issue. This is shameful and a shame that it caused such a uproar among our brethren in Isshinryu. It is a shame and disappointment that we have failed as karate-ka, Isshinryu'ist and simple human beings to allow it to frustrate, infuriate and push us into childish and immature actions that are hurtful and out and out mean spirited. 

I am shamed I allowed myself to get drawn into the bitter battle that is not needed, not necessary and absolutely the most unproductive things possible. It does more to harm both persons and Isshinryu than promote solidarity and symbiosis in the light of camaraderie and social cohesion of all practitioners.  

In lieu of a brotherhood of Isshinryu practitioners we are simply dividing and concurring an idea, a belief and a system inspired by a true luminary named Tatsuo Shimabuku Sensei. At this particular moment in time I believe that Tatsuo-san is rolling over in pain and anguish at our actions and deeds today. 

I am truly disappointed we all have failed to overcome the dogma of one belief when belief is a living thing that must grow and prosper as the human body grows and prospers as it ages. It is a sad, sad day that we have stooped to back biting childish behaviors and all I can say is "stop it," "grow up," and "let us all get along as karate-ka and simple human beings!"

Speaking Up - Correction

It has come to my attention that I made an egregious error in my posting of information in the previous "Speaking Up I & II posts here." I misquoted and posted without permission. This is unforgivable and I have no excuses. 

In a nutshell I can only say that Andy Sloane has spent his efforts working on behalf of Isshinryu with the highest of honor and dedication. He is a solid, outstanding and dedicated Isshinryu practitioner who has received the type of attention that can only come from those who have missed the entire way of karate and missed being honorable men and women. He does not deserve the attacks he has endured since the article in CFA came out. 

He had nothing to do with the content as it was published and is trying diligently with honor and honesty to make sure folks know that this is on CFA and the editors entirely and completely. 

Nuff said, my sincerest apologies to Andy Sloane. I admire and respect his work and efforts and ask for his forgiveness in my transgression. 

As to Advincula, it is just bad, bad, bad.

As to Sensei Chester Moyle, I also must submit my deepest apologies for the mistake I made and for the  resulting effects it had. I do hope that he will also allow for my incorrect and egregious error. 

Bad Martial Arts

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Domo arigato gozaimashita!

Intai [引退]

The characters/ideograms mean "retire." The first character means, "pull; tug; jerk; admit; install; quote; refer to," the second character means, "retreat; withdraw; retire; resign; repel; expel; reject."

Taishoku-sha [退職者]

The characters/ideograms mean "retired person; retiree." The first character means, "retreat; withdraw; retire; resign; repel; expel; reject," the second character means, "post; employment; work," the third character means, "someone; person."

There comes a time for everything. We are all subject to nature's intent - birth, life and death. The cycles are there and unavoidable so the best way is to seek the time best to retire, to leave a service and contemplate life. 

I have had a good run on the Internet. I have experienced a good run in active martial arts specifically the striking art of Isshinryu. As I study I find that I have been passed by and that is ok with me. I am turing fifty-nine and no longer desire to get out there and mix it up. It is time to allow others to reach for the stars and those stars are a far greater path than I followed.

My path was great for the time in which I experienced it. I am not finding that to remain steadfast in these new times I have to achieve goals that are not my desire, the physical ones necessary to speak with authority. Academia is not enough, the martial arts requires a balance with academia and physical applications. 

In order to maintain an honorable and responsible level requires greater engagement in the systems. To write or speak with the authority and validation necessary to mentor, lead or guide others in the martial arts one must get out there and do it daily - not a sport, not for fun, not as a social system but out there experiencing and learning and leading. 

I still strive for personal excellence in my practice of Isshinryu but it is now very limited in a traditional form. I still use it to attain a level of self-perfection but to lead others requires more and I find that I don't wish to go there  where younger more experienced folks are traveling. I wish to provide more choices but am unable or not wanting to take the extra steps and effort to reach that high. 

My time has come and I want to bow out gracefully unlike some who become an embarrassment. I love to write but need to leave it at the simplest level of philosophical such as I have attempted with my rendition of meaning behind the ken-po goku-i. If a question were to be provided I would give my theory and opinions but .....

This blog site is now considered retired. I leave it intact and available in case the information remains relevant to those seeking knowledge. My hopes are that it provided one person inspiration and allowed the person to gain knowledge and a modicum of open-minded thinking. I hope it made a difference in their practice, their training and their martial art but most of all it allowed for change and growth in all facets of life. 

Those who took time to read, thank you. Those who took time to let me know, I am grateful. Those who actually allowed the world to see they read my efforts, most appreciative - my sincerest thanks. To all those out there who inspired me with their posts and comments and books - your value to me is immeasurable, thanks. 

Domo arigato gozaimashita!

What is the karate creed and is it a good one for self-defense?

First, the karate creed was fist written or referenced by Sensei Ed Parker of Kenpo or Kempo fame. Ed Parker is the uncle of Ward H. Adams (now Parker since a name change some years ago) who served as a Marine in the late sixties through the seventies and early eighties. I can not say with any authority that this creed was the creation of Mr. Parker but I first heard it attributed to him over a decade or so ago. I simply give him credit for being a pioneer who used the phrase or presented the phrase first. Here is one interpretation or quote of this creed:

"I come to you with only Karate  - empty hands, I have no weapons; but should I be forced to defend myself, my principles, or my honor; should it be a matter of life or death, of right or wrong, then here are my weapons – 'Karate, my empty hands'." - Ed Parker, Grandmaster American Kenpo Karate.

Once, a while ago, I assumed incorrectly that this creed was an intricate part of the Okinawan karate heritage but found out that this was not and did not originate with Okinawans. I also was led to believe that it was indicative of specifically the Isshinryu system, which is also incorrect. It can be attributed to the Kenpo/Kempo systems headed by Mr. Ed Parker.

Analysis of the Creed:

"I come to you with only Karate  - empty hands, ..."

Hmm, for a karate practitioner this means we would assume karate is to be used for self-defense situations. This is not obvious but some assumption I would make if I used this in my self-defense karate practice, etc. It would indicate to me that I have this as a means of protection and that I would, an assumption, have this available if the need were to arise, i.e. the quote that continues. In reality today I would not want just karate as it has been view and perceived to be exclusively an  empty hand system for defense/protection but a part of a whole for defense which is far greater in scope than the mere empty handed applications one could learn in karate-goshin-do.

If one were actually learning and practicing a more traditional and historically supported system, style or branch that is karate then it would encompass far more than kicking and punching, etc.

"... I have no weapons; but should I be forced to defend myself, my principles, or my honor; ..."

The first part makes no sense to me in this, my personal interpretation, since having the use and expertise in karate means you have a weapon. It seems to me a bit convoluted to be referencing weapons as those things used to extend weaponry beyond the human body for it is this human body and all it encompasses as to weaponry that makes it karate, i.e. striking, kicking, grappling, vital points, joint manipulation, etc. 

As to being forced, I agree that to use any means of self-protection outside of avoidance and deescalation means you are going to utilize your weaponry but when it is used in such a narrow way according to defending principles or honor it speaks to me of ego, pride and the influences of the monkey which is not exactly directed by morality, legalities and economic influences, etc. which in and of themselves are inadequate as well. 

We can not apply a set of principles unless those principles are directed by legal, medical and moral understandings that are dictated by the individual and the society in which they live and operate including that institutes cultural and belief systems. It just isn't this simple. 

Honor is also driven by both internal and external influences and who is to say whether that honor system is adequate to require application of karate-goshin-do and in a simplistic way does that honor provide for the how and how far we take it to meet and remain within legal, ethical and medical, etc. constraints, guidance and processes.

"... should it be a matter of life or death, of right or wrong, ..."

Life or death also must be explained since it may or may not include the individual but possible others and those questions are dependent on many factors both legal and moral as well. If they are applicable then do we actually learn, know, understand and apply them correctly? Is it possible that without additional guidance that this creed actually provides for incorrect impressions as to applying karate in defense/protection of self, others or some principle, etc.?

As to right or wrong, whose interpretations and whose legal, moral and medical interpretations where each depending on the expertise, etc. will differ? Right or wrong is very subjective on its own without additional clarification and validation then we have to think "whose?" When it comes to the actual application of karate who will say whether it was adequate, not enough or too much?

"... then here are my weapons – 'Karate, my empty hands'."

Again, maybe I am being a bit over analyzing things but I often think now about the individual and how they may perceive things, i.e. their perceptions, their expectations, their personal influence authoritative training in life as well as other more direct disciplines to include karate. If this quote and creed were used in a self-defense/protective model then it should be coupled with a good deal of other prerequisites before being used as a "creed." 

"Creed" tends to promote a certain feeling  of authoritative direction to follow. Creed, the word itself, symbolizes to many a religious belief, faith. It is a word that says this content is a set of beliefs or aims to guide you in the application of karate, or actions taken with the use of karate where certain specifications drive it and may not cover all the possibilities that have far reaching and possible detrimental effects on you life and those other lives associated with the individual. 

Since it alludes symbolically of a religious connection some may interpret this as something driven and required by their own cultural religious beliefs if not qualified and modified to fit the model in which presented, i.e. karate as a self-defense system.

Something to consider and meditate/contemplate on ..... ?

http://www.bohans-family.com/Dojo/karate_creed.htm

http://www.nyseibukan.com/Intro/Karate/Creed/creed.html

http://powaymartialarts.com/karate-creed-pledges

http://usik.org/joomla/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=47&Itemid=55

http://www.toshikai.ca/aboutIsshinryu_CreedCodes.shtml

http://isshinryu-hillsboro.com/members/creed.shtml

Everyone

Anyone and everyone who finds or may find my posts anything other than my attempts to learn or they may have infringed on someone or something please comment and tell me what post and why. I will do my best to correct, I want this blog to be informative, entertaining and as accurate as possible with all gratitude and recognition due those who inspire me to write about a wonder and favorite subject for me - martial arts.

How many self-defense techniques are too much for practicality?

Hmmm, not sure I am the one to answer this question. I am sure of my personal feelings toward it tho and that is I prefer to keep them simple, few and as practicable as possible as related to violence as I see it in the street. Street violence for me is a good part monkey dance tribal oriented model but I also want something that will be there if I encounter a predatory violent attack.

I tend to feel that one, depending on how and how much they train, should keep it all simple and oriented toward natural body movements and natural instinctually driven responses, i.e. if you learn a technique you want it to be something that mimics somewhat the instinctual responses you might have in a survival mode. 

I feel we tend to think that having a tool box chocked full of techniques is the only way to truly be ready for self-defense. I am not totally convinced this is practicable. There are arguments for both sides but I feel that the brain in a crunch under the adrenaline chemical flood tends to go simple and too many choices will not produce a good blended response in the moment when needed the most. 

I agree it is interesting and fun to learn as much as you can but I do feel, personally, that what you learn for quantity must be tempered with adequate focus and attention on what you mind needs encoded when the stuff hits the fan. It can be done, I believe that many of the professionals out there have done this and done it well but where it tends to fall through the cracks is for those of us who rely on sporadic training and a mind-set that falsely believes that what we do in the training hall is enough. This is especially true of the persons who attend a few classes and assume it will work without any additional ongoing training and continuous practice.

The amount or quantity of SD techniques will be an answer only an individual can make for themselves. Don't listen to what I feel is adequate or excessive simply because that is what is adequate or excessive for me personally. Only you can say for yourself and you can only discover this through practice, practice, practice and training, training, training. You have to discover what works for you and what does not - for you, not me or others who will like me have a definite opinion :-)

This is why I would recommend strongly those who take self-defense attend seminars by those professionals who live this life daily and have accumulated the experience that says, it worked/works for them and then use that to gauge what works for you, they will help with that in the seminars, etc. i.e. Rory Miller, Marc MacYoung and many others. 

http://www.nononsenseselfdefense.com/

http://chirontraining.com/Site/Home.html

http://www.wimsblog.com/

http://www.westseattlekarate.com/

http://www.martial-secrets.com/

Why do karate training facilities use the terminology, i.e. Japanese terms, and why do they wear the uniform and belts, i.e. obi and karate-gi?

Good question. For me I can say that it is a symbol of the hereditary connections to the ancient martial arts of Okinawa. It is a symbol of the times in which I first began practice even tho the karate-gi is a relatively recent addition to karate-do. It is symbolic of the essence and nature of the cultural beliefs that radically affected the systems practiced today.

As to the terms, this is a definite model and method to learn more about the cultural influences of Japan and Okinawa with a historical influence from the Chinese, Korean and Indian teachings that led, carried and passed on concepts, etc. to both Japan and Okinawa. It is a means of communications that is diverse and different as light is to day when comparing to western communications. The characters/ideograms are fluid and infer greater meanings allowing them to be used in different context and as influenced by groups, etc. 

As one continues to research the cultural heritage of martial arts they can find, as I did, the strong connections and therefore strong influences on the Okinawan/Japanese social structures that led to martial arts and ways in the dojo as influenced by the cultural beliefs of every day life. 

It is also a teaching tool for those who do the work and research to find the underlying meanings that are possible from using such a communications method. The creation of these characters/ideograms also provide us a means to pursue an art form for it was this art form that was born from the early practices in writing, etc. 

In another view it is the "cool factor" for western training especially in the recent past sportive model. Today the current feelings are relinquishing the connections by not requiring or teaching the karate-gi and obi. It is becoming passé to acknowledge, wear or require the martial art uniform and belt. It is also being transitioned into a more commercialized western concept and symbol. 

As to the characters/ideograms in the west they are again a "cool factor" so a training facility can publish and advertise that they teach a traditional system of martial arts but this too is falling by the wayside due to modern influences resulting from the acceptance of things like MMA, UFC, and other like sport models. 

Very vey actually research the meaning of the words and especially the characters/ideograms and simply accept what is given in any dojo or training hall from any black belt instructor. It also allows for the cool factor in advertisements, etc. if one desires to go the extra distance to find them. 

In closing the uniform, terms and characters/ideograms are merely a learning tool for teaching the martial arts and must be taken seriously by researching and finding clarity but in reality teaching the English terminology is still going to teach a front snap kick with the ball of the foot, i.e. "Ashi no bōru o motte furontosunappukikku or 足のボールを持ってフロントスナップキック."

Yelling in the Dojo, is it necessary? Is it productive? Is it damaging?

Yelling is not productive and it does not promote anything more than resentment especially when the person on the receiving in either does not know or does not understand why. Just because someone is not learning in a manner the sensei perceives is adequate to that individual does not mean it needs the disruption and negative emanations of yelling. 

Command presence along with proper body language that includes specifically facial language, tone and intonation of words and voice tend to say a lot more than yelling. 

Command presence can be achieved by deeds, actions and example. If you lack any of these then you tend to drop into the easiest form of disruptive and ineffective communications, yelling. 

I know this because even today at fifty-nine years young when confronted by something that touches on certain emotional issues in my life I tend to lean toward frustration that sometimes leads to yelling - not good. 

Yelling in the Marines is used in the first phase of boot camp but not as a teaching tool but rather as a means to disorient, confuse  and create a model of indecision so they can take training to a model that one acts without thought and acts quickly but I stress that often after only a short time the yelling is lessened for more productive teaching methods and the use of command presence to achieve obedience, etc. to orders and certain processes that are all life and death oriented. 

I have command presence that I learned from the Marines. I have a strong voice that when the timber and tone take a certain note along with facial expressions and body language convey meaning that is meant to teach quickly.

Now, as to the dojo, there is no need for any of this. There are no time limits on budo. There are not time constraints on either the dojo as a group or on individuals as budo is meant to be learned over time and at the pace and ability levels of each individual. The modern dojo with its emphasis on students, classes and lesson plans with time and requirements set in stone tend to lean toward  larger groups that have limited time to learn or they lose money, etc.

In a traditionally formed dojo environment that is closer to the cultural systems of martial arts tend to have no such restrictions or requirements. Then the individual learns at their own pace and the teachings are adjusted accordingly. 

Yelling in the military as I might add is caught up in the time constraint, i.e. make a Marine combat ready in as short a time as nine weeks - a huge responsibility and a very small window that must be met to achieve war readiness. This model came about from WWII and Korea and Viet Nam, etc. but in peace time it was adjusted to thirteen weeks which is still, for some, a short turn-a-round.

I digress, in today's modern training facilities yelling is not necessary and a throw back to the military influences of folks who brought martial systems to our country in the late fifties and early sixties. It is not necessary even for shugyo. 

In testing, if used, shugyo can and is achieved in daily training and can be achieved in a short intense test environment without debasing and denigrating an human being with yelling and screaming no matter how you justify it by saying it puts the kind of pressure needed for a shugyo type environment. 

Can I learn martial arts from video's?

Yes .... No .... it depends. If you have no history in marital arts or any discipline for that matter you cannot adequately learn from a video no matter how well produced. If you use them in conjunction with a qualified sensei then you can learn from them. If you have attained a certain master while still gleaming guidance from a more experienced and qualified person you can learn from them.

I watch video's on Youtube, are they really considered a valid reference when discussing/practicing Martial Arts?

In a nutshell, no. Video's are often rehearsed and of course staged to get an acceptable and usable final production. They are a tool to assist in training and practicing martial arts or any other discipline.

If I were asked to watch a video and then give my opinion on that persons ability in martial arts I would have to say, no way but I could give an opinion as to the overall production of the film much like I would a movie.

Also,

Recently I have read posting where the poster considers it necessary to prove oneself in production of youtube video's, etc. It came up when a comment refuted something posted and the poster shot back that unless you have video's from youtube, etc. along with other like materials your point was not considered valid, correct or even truthful.

Since when did producing video's become a serious validation or discredit of one's ability in marital arts or just about anything? I have seen a variety of video's on my system of practice that look really good but in essence are empty of any real meaning. Does this pretty and aesthetic form of production indicate proficiency in martial arts or is it just a production that looks really cool, good and pretty? 

Aesthetics do not make the martial arts even in sport. Often the most proficient martial artists have ordinary kata and often are not pretty. When a technique is pretty it is often because it violates all the fundamental principles of martial systems that make it effective - often, not exclusively.

I have seen some of the worst marital artist produce some pretty good kata DVD's and I have seen some ordinary video's from guys who I would not want to fight in sport, monkey dance and especially in the street.

If I present a comment and am asked for sources such as would be found in almost any analysis I would then present a bibliography which includes references to experience and conversations/seminars/practice with others who had or have the experience, background and knowledge to be an expert in the field but video's? Not a chance because even ordinarily video's are often staged and rehearsed.

Think about it, do you accept any video as proof that something is valid, it works and is good martial arts? Remember there is always "the rest of the story" behind those final scenes in the clip.

How can one truly earn a variety of black belts in a variety of different systems?

Easy, really, first master one system. In that one system you would have mastered all the fundamental principles of martial systems which translate over and into all systems. What this means is if you spend the time, effort and diligence into one fundamental foundational system then you would easily gain expertise in other systems.

Like kata, if you master one kata in its entirety, completeness and proficiency then all others are a matter of finding the uniqueness of that systems essence. It requires the base foundation and the ability to keep track of each adequately and effectively.

Then the question arises, "Can you use all of them for self-defense?" It depends on how the knowledge is encoded for the particular strategy, i.e. if for self-defense then it is best to limit the systems you learn or at least pare them down to the simplistic form necessary to work in the streets. It must be remembered that the more the brain or mind has to sift through to get to the appropriate technique, tactic and strategy the more time it will take.

Are kata really all that complicated?

Depends on your perception. If your Asian it would seem culturally speaking the simplicity of them is the truism in practice but if your western then complicated is the norm. Culturally speaking simplicity, harmony and stoicism is the hallmark of the marital artists and therefore their practices even in martial arts.

Culturally speaking complexity, complexity and convolution is the hallmark of the martial artists in the west and is also how westerners appear to live their lives.

Kata are not all that complicated. There is depth and breadth to the study and practice of kata but that applies to all aspects of martial systems be they Asian or Western or European. How one culture looks to the training and practice depends a lot on their culture, their beliefs and their perceptions, etc.

In reality my perception is that human beings can either make things simple or make them complicated. All of it unique to the individual. So, take it to where you want.

The only caveat I have here is if you want it to be your blueprint to self-defense tactics then keep it as simple as you can but if your there to feed the ego, the monkey, or fill yourself with pride and be the envy of all who bow down to you then go ahead and make it as complex as you want.

When asked and when demonstrating the kata I practice most always look for something complicated and make assumptions that if it ain't then it ain't gook karate kata - just my perception.

Can You Teach w/o Experience In IT?

The quote is from the article or post I recommend everyone read especially if they teach self-defense. I personally have to agree with one concept Mr. MacYoung states in that even with all his experience, etc. he still finds it insufficient knowledge. I suspect this is why he and others like him not only work as professionals in this kind of stuff but they go out and experience from other experienced folks to continue to build on their knowledge and experience.

As a self-defense training professional I ask you to read the post/article and then question what it is you do, say and believe - enlightening and informative to say the least.

"Can you teach self-defense if you haven't "been there?" by Marc MacYoung.

Saying "No" to Sensei, is it proper or even allowed?

First, the unspoken legends of Asian Sensei silently conveying the entire system is based on a cultural belief system that outside those circles does not exist. Westerners are the absolute opposite of this model so communications is critical to adequately pass along martial arts teachings.

The Japanese/Asian cultures are of such rigid cultural form that often each person can intuitively perceive what is expected of them while westerners rely heavily on various forms of communications, i.e. words, body language to include facial expressions and tone or intonation in the melody of the spoken words.

In one instance a practitioner of a koryu system in Japan was told by his Sensei when he was given permission to teach the system, "you are not Japanese, when you return to the west, teach as is proper to westerners." Westerners or Americans rely heavily on verbal type communications. In my view it is a matter of combining holistically teachings by sense, i.e. the sense of sight; the sense of sound and the sense of touch.

So, as to the question asked ..... in our country even if the system taught is classic/traditional one should be allowed to communicate or question the Sensei and it is imperative the Sensei have the ability to communicate effectively the system in its entirety. Anything less is "bullshit." When you spend the time, effort and due diligence in a training hall it is required and expected that the training hall and its service providers give back in kind.

A good sensei must have the confidence and ability to communicate effectively as well as lead by example. If they don't then a student, practitioner or karate-ka, as the situation dictates, should say "no" when appropriate and with appropriate respect but then again if that is not possible - don't walk away, run. Take that time to find someone who is willing to actually teach the entire system and remain open to the relationship necessary to achieve success for the person, the sensei and the dojo.