Best Karate 1 Comprehensive
Best Karate 1 Comprehensive
All the basic points of karate arranged systematically for effective Il 1111111 I
step by step-the parts of the body used as natural weapons, the \1111 t .
how to block, how to attack, introduction to the kata and to kumitn III
fundamentals as presented in this volume, briefly but accurately, are tiH) iii n
tillation of the author's forty-six years' experience in this art of self-d II II t
ISBN978-4-7700-0608-0
C2375 V2000E
:€:iiHi:*f*2000fIl (~~~IJ)
KARATE~
Comprehensive
[Link]
KODANSHA INTERNATIONAL
Iokvo- New York· London
CONTENTS
Introduction 9
Basics 13
Natural Weapons: Use of the Hands and Arms, Use
of the Feet and Legs, Stances, Foot Movements,
Preparatory Exercises
Principles 47
Training 53
Basic Techniques: Hand and Arm Techniques, Foot
and Leg Techniques
Kata 93
Kumite 111
Karate-do 129
Historv. Contests. Makiwara, Vital Points
Glossary 142
[Link]
INTRODUCTION
9
hlow II( uld b( ti V 1)1 1. 1 tru r II w r rl Ir III WHA KARAT -DO IS
lipo ibl only wil n n lt ins porf etion in thes tw
spects. the one spiritual, the other physical.
Karate as an art of self-defense and karate as ameans of im-
proving and maintaining health has long existed. During the
past twenty years, a new activity has been explored and is com-
ing to the fore. This is sports karate.
ln sports karate, contests are held for the purpose of deter-
mining the ability of the participants. This needs emphasizing,
for here again there is cause for regret. There is a tendency to Deciding who is the winner and who is the loser is not the
place too much emphasis on winning contests, and those who ultimate objective. Karate-do is a martial art for the develop-
do so neglect the practice of fundamental techniques, opting ment of character through training, so that the karateka can
instead [Link] jiyO kumite at the earliest opportunitv. surmount any obstacle. tangible or intangible.
Emphasis on winning contests can not help but alter the fun- Karate-do is an empty-handed art of self-defense in which
damental techniques a person uses and the practice he engages the arms and legs are systematically trained and an enemy
in. Not only that. it will result in a person's being incapable of attacking by surprise can be controlled by a demonstration of
executing a strong and effective technique, which, after all. is strength like that of using actual weapons.
the unique characteristic of karate-do. The man who begins Karate-do is exercise through which the karateka masters all
body movements, such as bending, jumping and balancing, by
jiyO kumite prematurely-without having practiced funda-
learning to move limbs and body backward and forward, left and
mentals sufficiently-will soon be overtaken by the man who
has trained in the basic techniques long and diligently. It is, right. up and down, freely and uniformly.
quite simply, amatter of haste makes waste. There is no alterna- The techniques of karate-do are well control led according to
tive to learning and practicing basic techniques and move- the karateka's will power and are directed at the target accurate-
ments step by step, stage by stage. Iy and spontaneously.
If karate competitions are to be held. they must be conducted The essence of karate techniques is kime. The meaning of
under suitable conditions and in the proper spirit. The desire to kime is an explosive attack to the target using the appropriate
win a contest is counterproductive, since it leads to a lack of technique and maximum power in the shortest time possible.
seriousness in learning the fundamentals. Moreover, aiming for (Long ago, there was the expression ikken hissetsu. meaning
a savage display of strength and power in a contest is totally "to kill with one blovv." but to assume from this that killing is
undesirable. When this happens. courtesy toward tne opponent the objective is dangerous and incorrect. It should be remem-
is forgotten, and this is of prime importance in any expression bered that the karateka of old were able to practice kime daily
of karate. I believe this matter deserves a great deal of reflection and in dead seriousness by using the makiwara.)
and self-examination by both instructors and students. Kime may be accomplished by stri king, punching or kicking,
To explain the many and complex movements of the body, it but also by blocking. A technique lacking kime can never be
has been my desire to present a fully illustrated book with an regarded as true karate, no matter how great the resemblance
up-to-date text. based on the experience in this art that I have to karate. A contest is no exception; hovvever. it rs against the
acquired over a period of forty-six years. This hope is being rules to make contact because of the danger involved.
realized by the publication of the Best Karate series, in which Sun-dame means to arrest a technique just before contact
earlier writings of mine have been totally revised with the help with the target (one sun, about three centimeters). But not
and encouragement of my readers. This new series explains in carrying a technique through to kime is not true karate, so the
detail what karate-do is in language made as simple as possible. question is how to reconcile the contradiction between kime
and I sincerely hope that it will be of help to followers of karate- and sun-dame. The answer is this: establish the target slightly
do. I hope also that karateka in many countries will be able to in front of the opponent's vital point. It can then be hit in a con-
understand each other better through this series of books. trolled way with maximum power, without making contact.
Training transforms various parts of the body into weapons to
be used freely and effectively. The quality necessary to accom-
plish this is self-control. To become a victor, one must first
overcome his own self.
10 11
1
BASICS
12
NA URAL W APON
u H HAND AND ARM
Making a Fist
The two ways of using the hand are (1) open and (2) closed.
There are six types of fists (ken) and eleven types of open-
hand (kaish6).
To make a fist. start by folding the fingers so that the tips
reach only to the base of the fingers. Then continue to fold the
fingers inward until the tips are pressed tightly into the palm.
Press the thumb firmly over the second joints of the index and
middle fingers. The little finger is apt to become weak and re-
laxed. so it is necessary to be careful about keeping it pressed
ftp i tightly against the palm.
"1 -
" A second way. not used much nowadays. is to first fold the
middle. ring and little fingers. then press the index finger slant-
wise over the middle finger. This has fallen into disuse because
of the difficulty of getting used to it and the tendency of the
little finger to become relaxed.
15
14
VlO'
16 17
YI' f Op 11 H nd
xt nd fin rs of th op n-hand (kaish6) must be
Ir d tightly together, and the back of the hand and the wrist
must form a straight line. The thumb is bent and held tightly
against the palm, It is important that the base of the thumb
should not be deeply bent.
Haishu Back-hand
Teish6 Heel of the Palm
The whole surface of the back of the open-hand may be used
to stri ke, but for the most part it is used in blocking. This is formed from the open-hand by bending the wrist back
fully. It is useful in sweeping an opponent's attacking arm to
one side or downward. In attacks. it is very effective for strikes
to the jaw.
,
YI
J
Spear Hand
Nukite
The fingers are tense. with the tips slightly bent. In either a SeiryDt6 Ox Jaw Hand
sideward or arising motion, an attack can be made to the ribs.
By bending the hand sideways, the edge of the palm and the
side of the body, solar plexus or the point below the nose.
wrist co me to form a curve. Then the palm be low the little
Only two fingers can also form a spear hand, the middle and
finger can be effective in blocking the opponent's forward
index fingers, or the index finger and thumb. In this case it is
thrust or in attacking his face or collarbone.
cal led two-finger spear hand tnihon nukite).
21
20
Bear Hand Keita Chicken Head Wrist
Kumade
The fingers are folded so that the tips just touch the palm. The hand is bent outward, with the thumb bent at the joint
The thumb is also folded. The entire surface of the palm is and the finqers flexed. The striking surface is the thumb from
directed in a powerful attack against the face. its base to the' knuckle. It can be used effectively against the
opponent's attacking arm or his armpit.
Kekuto Bent-wrist
Washide Eagle Hand
By bending the hand inward to the fullest extent the wrist
The tips of the fingers and thumb are brought together so as
can become a powerful weapon. It can be used against the
to resemble a bird's peak. They are then used for attacks to the
opponent's punching arm or to stri ke his armpit.
throat or other vital points.
23
22
u o H AND L s
,
Ude Arm
24 25
Kakato Heel Tsumasaki Tae Tips
The heel is used for back kicks. The tae s are kept tightly together, and kicks are made with
It is also called ensh6 (round heel). the tips. Primarily this is used against the midsection.
26 27
STANCES
,
and stable.
At all times, the upper part of the body must be kept per-
pendicular to the ground and the hips level. The joints should
not be overly tense. no more strength than is necessary should
be used in excuting a technique, and it is desirable that the
stance be relaxed.
\ I
Uchi-hachinoji-dachi Heiko-dachi ParaIlei stance
Inverted open-Ieg stance
28 29
Center of gravity
The back leg is straight the front leg is bent so that the knee Back Stance
K 6kutsu-dachi
is directly over the foot. and the hips are lowered. The back
must be kept directly over the hips and perpendicular to the The feet are spread apart with the knee of the back foot bent
ground. Face directly forward. The distribution of weight be- and the front leg stretched lightly forward. The hips are lowered.
tween the front and rear feet is in the ratio of 6 to 4. and the back is kept straight in a half-front-facing position. The
ln the hanmi (half-front-facing) variation of this stance. the distribution of weight between the front and back feet is in the
torso is at a 45 o angle to the front. with the head facing forward. ratio of 3 to 7.
This is a strong position for attacks to frontal targets. This stance is effect ive for blocking frontal attacks.
30 31
Center of gravity
I ®
Center of gravity
Plumb line from knee Plumb line from knee Plumb line from knee
Center of
Center gravity
of qrevitv
Plumb line
from knee
~
Center
of gravity
34 35
nln Ir
Sbtzon-tst hschtnoji-dschi
Open-Ieg stance
Migi kiba-dachi Right straddle-Ieg stance Hidari kiba-dachi Left straddle-Ieg stanco
Hidari zenkutsu-dechi Left front stance Hlght back stance diagonally to the rear
Right back stance to the rear Left back stance to the rear
Migi fud6-dachi Right rooted stance Hidari fud6-dachi Left rooted stance
39
PAHA o v X
By oneself
40 41
WI1I1 1I rtu r
42 43
U ln qulpm nt
44 45
2
PRINCIPLES
48 49
P w r nd p d itn 1/ /lllIlIlfI (f Mu ulnr w r
Power accumulates with speed. Muscular strength alon will JII I , l ln in r lheory nd principles without strong, well-
not enable one to excel in the martial arts. or in any sport for li JII1 stic muscles to execute the techniques is useless.
I
that matter. The power of the kime (finish) of a basic karate Str ngthening muscles requires constant training.
technique derives from the concentration of maximum force at It is also desirable to know which muscles are used in which
the moment of irnpact. and this in turn depends greatlyon the techniques. To the extent that rnuscles are used specifically,
speed of the blow or kick. The punch of a highly trained greater effectivess can be expected. Conversely, the less muscles
karateka can travel at a speed of thirteen meters per second and are used unnecessarily, the less the loss of energy. Muscles
generate power equivalent to seven hundred kilograms. operating fully and harmoniously will produce strong and effec-
Though speed is irnportant. it cannot be' effective without tive techniques.
control. Speed and power are increased by utilizing the pairing
of forces and reaction. For this purpose, an understanding of Rhythm and Timing
the dynamics of movement and their application is necessarv.
ln any sport, the performance of a top athlete is very rhvth-
rnical. This applies also in karate.
Concentration and Relaxation of Power
The timing of various techniques cannot be expressed mu-
Maximum power is the concentration of the strength of all sically, but it is nonetheless important. The three principal
parts of the body on the target, not just the strength of the arms factors are the correct use of power, swiftness or slowness in
and legs. executing techniques and the stretching and contraction of
Equally important is the elimination of unnecessary power muscles.
when executing a technique, which will result in giving greater The performance of a master karate ka is not only powerful
power where it is needed. Basically, power should start at zero, but very rhythmical and beautiful. Acquiring a sense of rhythm
climax to one hundred on irnpact. and immediately return to and timing is an excellent way to make progress in the art.
zero. Relaxing unnecessary power does not mean relaxing alert-
ness. One should always be alert and prepared for the next
movement.
50 51
Hip
he 11 ips ar locat d pproxim l Iy at th center of the hum n
body, and their movement plays a crucial role in the execution
of various types of karate techniques. The explosive power of
the finishing blow is created by the lower abdomen, particularly
the rotation of the hips. which adds to the power of the upper
body.
3
Besides being a source of power, the hips provide the basis
for astable spirit. correct form and maintenance of good balance.
ln karate, the advice is often given to "punch with your hips."
"kick with your hips." and "block with your hips."
TRAINING
Breathing
Breathing is coordinated with the execution of a technique,
specifically, inhaling when blocking, exhaling when a finishing
technique is executed, and inhaling and exhaling when succes-
sive techniques are performed.
Breathing should not be uniform; it should change with
changing situations.
When inhaling, fill the lungs full, but when exhaling, do not
expel all the air. Leave about 20 percent in the lungs. Exhaling
completely willleave the body limp. One will not be able to
block even a weak blovv. rior will he be able to prepare for the
next movement.
52
'\ 11/1••111III ! Ih lbow. /\11rr liv lik I nel 11
BA IC HNI U InIlIIIIII 11/11 III O y ow r in th 'for rm at th mom nt o'f
(11111 1. Wil n the elbow is touching the body, the power is
t' t t, but this tends to reduce the scope of the block.
HAND AND ARM TECHNIQUES p nding on the situation. the elbow should be neither too
close nor too far from the side of the body-in principle. at a
distance about equal to the width of the fist.
5. Effects of overblocking. Overblocking results in loss of
balance. loss of tension in the side muscles, reduction of body
control and difficulty in excuting follow-up techniques. It is ne-
cessary to learn the appropriate position for each blocking tech-
nique.
6. Block-attack. Besides the option of inhibiting further
Uke Blocking attacks by blocking with great force. there are several blocking
techniques that in themselves become finishing blows.
Karate differs from boxing and other fighting arts in defensive
techniques. There are many techniques for blocking kicks. and
these make use of the legs and feet as well as the hands and
arms. Karate is unique in this respect.
All blocks must be executed at the very beginning of the op-
ponent's attack. Therefore, it is absolutely necessary to antici-
pate the attack. The various purposes of blocking should be
kept in mind.
1. To discourage further attack. The use of great force can
deter the opponent from further attacks. and in this way the
block itself becomes an attack.
2. To perrv. An attacking arm or leg can be blocked lightly,
with only enough force to deflect it.
3. To block and attack. It is possible to block and coun-
terattack at the same instant.
4. To unba/ance the opponent.
5. To withdraw. After blocking, one can take a position of
safety until there is an opportunity for counterattack.
Mastery of the following points is essential to effect ive
blocking techniques.
1. Direction of power. It is impossible to block without
first having accurately assessed the path of the attack. Deflect
the stri ke or kick by blocking: from underneath upward, if the
attack is to the head or upper torso. From inside outward or
from outside inward, if the attack is to the chest. Downward and
sweeping outward, if the attack is to the abdomen.
2. Forearm rotation and timing. Merely hitting the at-
tacking arm is comparatively weak. Rotating the forearm of the
blocking arm makes the block stronger, but good timing is
critical. Egypt. 1975
3. Hip rotation. Rotating the hips is as much a part of
blocking as it is of punching. Block and finish with the hips.
withdrawing the other arm at the same time that the block is
made.
55
54
Jčdsn Age-uke Upper Block against Head Attack
56 57
Cbiiden Ude Uke Forearm Block against Body Attack
Soto-uke Outside inward
This is used against a punch aimed at the chest or face. De-
flect the opponent's arm to the side. blocking with the outer
edge of the wrist.
1. At the finish. be sure that the elbow of the blocking arm
is bent at about a 90° ang le and the forearm is almost perpendic- Chiidsn Ude Uke Forearm Block against Body Attack
ular to the ground. The forearm and the side of the body should Uchi-uke Inside outward
be roughly aligned, i.e.. avoid overblocking.
2. Fist in front of the chin. the elbow should be about ten A punch aimed at the chest or face can be blocked with the
centimeters in front of the body and the muscles around the inner edge of the wrist.
1. The path of the blocking arm is outside the withdrawing
armpit tense.
3. Bring the other arm back to the side and form a tight fist. arm.
Rotate the hips in the direction of the block, uti lizing the power 2. The other points given with regard to the outside-inward
to strike the attacking arm with great force. forearm block are also applicable here.
59
58
Tate Shutč-uke Vertical Sword-hand Block
60 61
I H nd BI ek
Te nagashi-uke
Sweeping hand block
~JP
Tekubi keke-uka
Seiryut6 uke Ox-jaw hand block
Kekutč Uke
Teish6 uke Heel of the palm block
Bent-wrist Block
Hooking wrist block A forearm can be blocked strongly with this. either by striking
upward or by deflecting it to the side.
Haishu uke Back-hand Block
Keita Uke Chicken-head Wrist Block
Using the spring-power of the elbovv. block with the back-
hand. Keep the hand and wrist straight. and concentrate power This is used to block the opponent's forearm from underneath
on the back surface of the hand. This is to counter a punch to the upward.
chest or solar plexus by hitting the opponent's upper arrn. elbow
SeiryiJta Uke Ox-jaw Hand Block
or forearm.
Other blocking techniques are: dropping block (otoshi-uke), With this. a forearm or leg is blocked with a downward swing.
sweeping back-arm block (haiwan nagashi-uke), sweeping
hand block (te nagashi-uke), pressing hand block (te osae-uke), Teish6 Uke Heel of the Palm Block
hooking wrist block (tekubi kake-uke), twisting forearm block
(maeude hineri-uke) and pressing forearm block (maeude Forearm or leg can be deflected upward. downward or from
deai-osae-uke) . one side to the other.
62 63
KI k
w ·h na
_ J
~~~- ~~ Teishč awase-uke Sokutei mawashi-uke Circular so le block
Sokumen awase-uke Side combined block Combined heel of the palm block
Sokutč osae-uke Pressing sword-foot block Sokutei osae-uke Pressing sole block
, ,
I~< .. '
l ~/ Sokubo kake-uke Hooking foot block Ashikubi kake-uke Hooking ankle block
Kakiwake-uke Reverse wedge block
65
64
Att I king
Tsuki Punching
66 67
M un hin J j 11/ /IIAI utlv unchlng
Kizami-zuki Jab
68 69
yp f PUI1 h
Ura-zuki
Age-zuki
Close punch
Rising Punch
.••.. •...••.....
~;I/
the index and middle fingers against the face or chin.
Mawashi-zuki Roundhouse Punch
Ura-zuki Close Punch Attack the face, side of the head or side of the body; the tore-
,1
Using the fore-fist punch straight ahead. bringing the palm fist rises from the hip in a half-circular movement. Since there is
inward or upward. Targets are the face, midsection or side of the a strong tendency for the elbow to leave the side of the body,
body. If the side muscles are not tensed. the punch will not be take care to synchronize the arm with the hip rotation and
effective. brush the elbow against the body.
70 71
Awase-zuki U Punch
Both fore-fists are used, straight punch (palm downward) to
the face, close punch (palm upward) to the abdomen. Punch Heiko-zuki ParaIlei Punch
simultaneously, straight upward, bringing the power of the This is directed against the intercostal area below the nipples.
body into full play. Using power from the body, punch straight forward with both
fore-fists hitting the targets at the same time.
72 73
Striking (I, lA, 1/ I/(!II k·fl t trik
At lil (J/ 111.11I Hemmer Flst Strike
74 75
Urok n·uchl yokomowo iii
IIJII If, ll: w trik
Side roundhouso b ek - fi st
III flW trlk c n bo m t th front. b ck or sides-rising.
strike
1111111 I lurning to the side-when movement of the torso is
I trlc: d. you are grasped from behind. or the opponent has
rabbed your arm.
Of course. they differ from hand strikes; they should be re-
garded as ate-waza. i.e.. smashing techniques. They are also
known as empi uchi (elbow strikes).
The following points are the important ones:
1. Although effect ive as a counterattack at ciose range. it
is a mistake to aim at a target verv far away.
2. Keep the upper body erect and use the rotation of the
hip. If the torso is off the perpendicular. the strike may not be
ineffective. but it will give the opponent the advantage.
3. Not keeping the fist and forearm close to the body will
weaken the stri ke. Brush the arm against the body as it moves.
4. Effectiveness and power co me from rotating the forearm
and bending the elbow deeply.
oO il'..
Mae h/ji-ate Forward elbow strike
Tate hiji-ate Upward elbow stri ke
77
76
Mae Hiji-ste Forward Elbow Strike
Ushiro Hi}i-ate Back Elbow Strike
For a stri ke with the right elbow, the right fist comes from the
right hip to the left nipple, always touching the body. The Attack directly to the rear with the elbow, strongly and de-
forearm too should be kept as close to the body as possible. cisively. It is important that the fist come to the side of the body.
This is for attacking the chest or abdomen of a frontal target. Targets are the opponent's chest or midsection, particularly
especially if you have been grabbed from the front. when he attempts to grab you from the rear.
It is a!so cal led mae empi-uchi. This is also cal led ushiro empi-uchi.
78 79
Tate Hiji-ate Upward Elbow Strike Otoshi Hiji-ate Downward Elbow Strike
To be effect ive, the forearm must be kept close to the body as Immediately after the opponent is thrown or pulled downward,
it is raised into a vertical position, and since the upper body stri ke from above not with the elbow but with the force of the
tends to twist care must be taken to rotate the hips in a plane whole body. The forearm must be kept vertical as the hips are
parallel to the floor and to keep the torso perpendicular. lowered, and attention given to the stability of the lower body.
Blocking a frontal attack while stamping forward, counter- Counterattack directly downward, hitting the face, back of
attack to the chin or abdomen. the head or trunk.
This is also cal led tate empi-uchi. This is also cal led otoshi empi-uchi.
80 81
Shuto Vehi Sword Hand Strike
As in the back-fist strike. the snap of the elbow and the ro-
tation of the forearm and hips are main points.
Rotate the forearm fully, so that the palm comes to face in the
opposite direction at the time of striking.
Attacks can be made either from the inside outward or the Vehi mawashi-uehi
outside inward. When from inside outward, rotate the hips in Roundhouse stri ke, inside outward
the opposite direction from the stri ke; when outside inward,
Soto mawashi-uehi
same direction. Always rotate the hips swiftlv.
Roundhouse strike, outside inward
Principle targets are the temple, carotid artery and side of the
body.
The ridge hand can also be used for this technique.
82
FOOT AND LEG TECHNIQUES I' "11/1111 lIIeI IlJAl, lil Ilil r lyp ,tli
(JI Ili .II/p· P w r
lil 11111 II I hv Il( Ir I
l urlici nt. To thts musl b
li d od th
lIilll J ol lil hi s and knee. For this purpose. the ankles must
ol Jr. b made strong through extended training.
84 85
Mae keage Frant snap kick
Yoko keage Side snap kick Yoko keka mi Side thrust kick
Mae kekami Frant thrust kick Yoko-geri Side Kick
While keeping the upper body facing forward, the sword foot
Mae-geri Front Kick can be used against a target to the side. It is either a snap kick
This may be either a snap kick or a thrust kick. The opponent's or a thrust kick. depending on the situation.
face, chest. abdomen or groi n is attacked with the ball of the Keage Snap Kick
This is a counterattack against an attack from the side.
tcot. the toes or the instep.
Keage Snap Kick but the edge of the foot may be used for blocking too.
Fully bending and raising the knee of either the front leg Kick with the heel. using the snap of the knee that has been
or the back leg to chest level, kick with a strong snapping raised to chest level. Bend the ankle fully upward, To get the
motion. The foot follows arising arclike path with the kneecap necessary, strong support of the other leg, bend the ankle so the
as the pivot. After kicking, bring the leg back to the inner side kneecap is directly over the toes and keep the leg firm.
of the supporting leg, taking particular care throughout to keep Kekomi Thrust Kick
the hips and upper body straight. The ball of the foot is com- Kick to the jaw, arrnpit. side of the body or groin.
monly used, but the toes and instep mayaiso be used. It is necessary that the path of the foot in both kicking and
Always face the target squarely for attacks to the face, withdrawing be the same. Using the sword Ioot. deliver the
chin, chest. groin or thigh. power of the hips as well as of the snap of the knee, which is,
Kekomi Thrust Kick of course. raised as high as possible. The longer the distance
Using the ball or heel of the toot. straighten the leg the foot travels. the stronger the kick.
forcefully from the raised-knee position. Effectiveness comes This is directed against the face, midsection, chest. side of
from keeping the lumbar vertabrae facing forward and using the the body or thigh of an opponent to the side.
power of the hips. This is good for a downward slanting kick. For a target at close hand, there are variations of the thrust
Targets are the solar plexus. groin, thigh or lower leg. kick: fumikiri (cutting kick) and fumikomi (stamping kick).
87
86
Mawashi-geri Roundhouse Kick
To be effect ive, the hips must be rotated strongly and swiftly. Ushiro-kekomi Back Thrust Kick
Against a target in front or slightly to the side. kick with either
the front or back leg. Swing the leg in an arc from outside While facing forward, snap kick or thrust kick to the rear.
inward, using the snap of the knee. The path of the leg should using either leg. Positioning the target maintaining stability
be nearly parallel to the floor. and not being thrown off balance when the kick lands are
The ball of the foot or instep is used against the face, neck, difficult so the supporting leg must be well planted and firm.
chest or side of the body. This is effective when you are being grasped or attacked
It is also possible to attack the opponent's solar plexus or the directly from the rear. Aim for the face, solar plexus. abdomen,
side of his body by kicking from inside outward in what is groin, thigh or leg.
known as the gyaku mawashi-geri (reverse roundhouse kick). Another way of kicking is in an arc from outside inward.
89
88
Nidan-geri Two-level kick
90 91
11/)1 yoAu (JIII .JtlllIplllU 1~llIllok
4
KATA
92
1111111111 III II ti 1< ("). meJ o Il.
TYPES OF KATA 'lo III! r( Ir k t th t must be I arn nd kat that ar
()pll!)!)I!. 111 forrner are the five Heian kata and the three Tekki
k l . I he I tter are Bassai. KankO. Empi. Hangetsu. Jitte. Gan-
kaku and Jion. Other kata are Meiky6. Chinte. NijOshiho.
GojOshiho. Hyakuhachiho. Sanchin. Tensho. Unsu. S6chin and
Seienchin.
4. To perform a kata dvnarnicallv. three rules must be
remembered and observed: (1) correct use of power. (2) speed
of movement. fast or slow. and (3) expansion and contraction
of the body. The beauty. power and rhythm of the kata depend
on these three things.
5. At the beginning and at the end of the kata, one bows.
Blocking. punchinq. striking and kicking-the fundamental This is part of the kata. When doing kata successivelv. bow at
techniques of karate-are combined in a logical manner in the the very beginning and at the completion of the final kata.
kata. the formal exercises. Since ancient times. the various kata
have been the core of karate. having been developed and per-
fected by old masters through long training and experience.
The kata. about fifty of which have co me down to the present
day. can be roughly divided into two groups. On the one hand
are those that are seemingly simple but also exhibit grandeur.
composure and dignity. Through practice of this type of kata.
the karateka can build up his physique. tempering his bones
and forging strong muscles.
The other group is suggestive of the flight of a swallow and
is appropriate for the acquisition of fast reflexes and quick
movements.
Execution of each kata. that is. the leg movements. is along
a predetermined performance line (embusen). Though one
practices without a visible opponent. he should have in mind
disposing of enemies coming from four directions-or eight
directions-and the possibility of a changing performance line.
Since the kata contain all of the elements essential for ex-
ercising the whole body. they are ideal for that purpose.
Practicing alone or in a group. anyone can follow this Way. in
accordance with his own level of ability and regardless of age.
It is through these formal exercises that the karateka can
leam the art of self-defense. enabling him to face a dangerous
situation naturally and expediently. But the degree of skillful-
ness is the determining factor.
Characteristics of the kata are:
1. For each kata. the number of movements is fixed
(twentv. tortv. etc.). They must be performed in the correct
order.
2. The first movement of the kata and the last movement
must be executed at the same point on the performance line.
The performance line has various shapes depending on the kata.
such as. straight line. like the letter T. like the letter 1. in the
94 95
11 13
Heian 1
The techniques in this kata are the upper block against head
attack and the sword hand block against body attack (chDdan
shut6 uke). Because this is the first kata to be learned, it is
important training in foot movements and following the per-
formance line. In particular. aim for mastery of the front stance
and back stance. while getting well acquainted with the essen-
tials of the lunge punch.
The performance line is 1 shaped. the number of movements
is twenty-one, and the time required is about forty seconds. 21
96 97
20 21 22 23
Heian 2
This is training in the side kick and front kick. Changing
directions when executing a side kick is a particular point to be
learned.
The performance line is 1 shaped, the number of movements
is twenty-six, and the time required is about forty seconds.
98 99
2 3
Heian 3
Mastery of the forearm block against body attack is the
principal aim. With the elbow fully bent learn to position it
about a hand-width from the body with reliability.
Blocking with the elbow and counterattacking with a back-
fist strike or elbow strike: from this kata. one can gain an under-
standing of the great value of this fundamental technique.
The performance line is T shaped, the number of movements
is twenty, and the time required is about forty seconds.
100 101
2 3
17 18 19 24
Heian 4
102 103
Heian 5
104 105
2
16
24
Tekki 1
The stance is the straddle-Ieg stance. and it is important that
it be strong and stable. One's attitude should also show resolute
intent.
For such special kicking techniques as the returning wave
(nami-gaeshi) kick. the hips must be well set.
The performance line is a straight line, the number of move-
ments is twenty-nine, and the time required is about fiftv
seconds.
26 27 28 29
106 107
Kanku Jitte Hangetsu
Tekki 2 Tekki 3 Bassai
Tekki 2
108 109
5
KUM ITE
Empi Gankaku
Empi
Like the flight of a swallow, this kata has high and low posi-
ti on s, lightly and facilely performed. It is good for practicing the
quick reversal of body positions.
The performance line is T shaped. the number of movements
is thirty-seven, and the time required is about one minute.
Gankaku
Jion
With in the calrn. smooth, harmonious movements of this kata
lies a fierce fighting spirit. It is appropriate for learning such
things as sliding the feet. shifting positions and turning.
The performance line is 1 shaped. the number of movements is
fortv-seven. and the time required is about one minute.
110
y KUMI III hI/II II lil
II IlIII ili 011 lIL" villi 1 Illl. 1\ w II trnln <1
I II iii 1·1 (. lili
III sllv. r
ti rdl S or how pow rlullv x-
lit 1111CI III technique is.
JlyL1 kumite has a strong appeal, perhaps because it is per-
r rm d in dead earnest. The inexperienced person, however,
attracted by and knowing only the surface aspects. will end up
using his arms and legs mechanically, and the sparring will
look like that of fighting cocks-or become a free-for-all. When
this happens. the unique characteristic of karate-da-destroy-
ing the enemy with a single, powerful blow-is last. Moreover,
it is aviolation of the rules of karate-do.
Without understanding meei. kuzushi, kake, tsukuri and
strategy, the student cannot practice jiyu kumite. (In Iact. much
Kata and kumite are like the two wheels of a eart. The kata remains to be known about these. and development of karate
are practiced in order to learn techniques, offensive and defen- along these lines is a task for the future.) Nor should he attempt
sive, and body movements; in this form of practice. the enemy jiyu kumite before having mastered basic kumite and ippon
exists only in the minds eve. In kumite, another method of kumite.
training, two men face each other and demonstrate techniques. Kumite is not something to be practiced instead of kata,
Thus it can be considered an application of the fundamentals which are, as they always have been. the most important. es-
learned in the kata and may be said to be a kind of sparring. sential training.
ln ancient days in Okinawa, karate was based almost exclu-
sively on the kata. It was only rarely that the power of a punch
or block was measured by what was called kakedameshi.
Following its introduction into Japan proper. karate gradually
became popular among young men and was. inevitably, in-
fluenced by the Japanese martial arts. Basic kumite, which first
came to be practiced in the late 1920s, was studied and refined,
and jiyu kumite (free sparring) was developed. Todav. kumite
is widely practiced as ameans of training.
Since kumite came into existence only after karate was intro-
duced into Japan proper. it is, comparatively speaking, a new
aspect of this art of self-defense. Thus. just as our predecessors
of long ago took upon themselves the task of perfecting the
kata, it is the duty of tcdav's karateka to develop kumite to the
same high level as the kata.
The three types of kumite are basic kumite, ippon kumite and
jiyu kumite.
Basic kumite is for the cultivation of basic techniques, keep-
ing in mind the individual student's level of skiII.
Ippon kumite is for studying offensive and defensive tech-
niques, training in body movements and learning maai (distanc-
ing).
ln jiyu kumite, there is no prearrangement of techniques.
The partners are allowed to make free use of their mental and
physical powers. but the student must strictly control his
punches. strikes and kieks. Actually making contact with the
target is strictly prohibited, so the blow must be stop ped just
112
UPI rl v I
4
3
5
4
2
The attacker. on the right. advances and
attacks five times in successions. The blocker
retreats and blocks five times. then counterat-
tacks.
Gohon Kumite
ln this type of sparring. the accuracy and power of strikes and
blocks are to be learned. along with drill in foot movements.
There is also sambon kumite.
114 115
MlcJcJl Ivl
117
I JWt II vol
118
lJI Il I II VIII MI 1!l11 II VI I
120
Kiel lil J lil I umi
123
Block the attack to the body. Immediate- An attack to your chest. Step forward
Iy make aroundhouse kick to the neck.
and kick to the solar plexus.
Both men must be well trained and highly skilled. for this
will seem like an actual fight. Neither should think of having a
second chance; the first attack, or block, is all.
This is the ultimate objective of karate training and the
preparatory stage for jiyu kumite.
Jiyi) Kumite
Though nothing is prearranged and both men are expected to
exhibit their mental and physical powers at the highest level,
actual stri king is prohibited. Blocks, blows and kicks must be
arrested before hitting the target. since the hands and feet of a
skilled karateka are extremely dangerous and can inflict fatal
injuries. Only the very well trained are capable of this.
124
Side kick against an attack to the face. A front kick can be hand led with a side thrust kick.
Right thrust kick against a body attack. Block the attack to the face. Counter with a front kick.
The opponent punches. Delivery aroundhouse kick to the face. Roundhouse kick against roundhouse kick. Who is faster?
6
KARATE-DO
130 131
9 furth r n y lil l k r l l I Y 11 Im lil il I th
extreme point of perfsction. CONTESTS
The first golden age of karate, as it has been called, occurred
around 1940, when nearly every major university in Japan had
its own karate club. ln the early postwar years, it suffered a
decline. but now, thanks to the enthusiasm of karate-do
supporters, it is being practiced more widely than ever. It has
also spread to many countries throughout the world, creating
a second golden age.
After the war. requests were frequently received from the
Allied Forces stationed in Japan to see exhibitions of the Kata Contests
martial arts. Judo, kendo and karate-do experts formed groups
and visited military bases two or three times a week to perform For kata, there are two ways of conducting the contest.
their respective arts. I stili remember the great interest of the One is the red and white contest. In this. the contestants are
servicemen in karate, an art that they were seeing for the first divided into two groups, and one member from each group
time in their lives. performs the same kata at the same time. After the completion
ln 1952, the Strategic Air Command of the United States of the kata, a flag, either red or white, is displayed to indicate
Air Force sent a group of young officers and noncommissioned the winner.
officers to Japan to study judo, aikidč and karate-do. The ln the otherway, points are given for each performance, ten
purpose of this was to train physical education instructors, and points being the maximum. The contestant with the highest
for the three months they were in Japan, they followed a stiff number of points becomes the winner.
schedule, studying and practicing intensively. As the leader Principal considerations in judging are power and spirit. but
of the men teaching karate, I thought this was a great step also moderation, and the three key points: correct use of power,
forward for karate-do. For more than a dozen years after that. appropriate speed of techniques and the stretching and con-
two or three groups came every year. traction of the body. Points are forfeited for making mistakes
This training program was evaluated highly, and groups ln the order of movements and for not finishing the kata on the
began coming from other countries besides the United States. point on the performance line where it was begun.
Various countries also requested that karate instructors be sent No allowance is made for mistakes, however small. It is not
to train more instructors. This has. of course. been one influence always true that a person good at kata is the winner.
in making karate popular around the world.
Karate is as it always has been an art of self-defense and a
form of healthy exercise, but with the increase in popularity the
interest in holding contests grew stronger, as it did in kendo
and judo. Mostly due to the efforts of the younger enthusiasts.
the First AII-Japan Karate-do Championship Tournament was
held in October, 1957, This was sponsored by the Japan Karate
Association, and the following month, the AII-Japan Student
Karate Federation sponsored a championship tournament
before an audience numbering in the thousands. Besides being
epoch-making events, these two tournaments created an even
greater interest in the art throughout the country.
They are now held annually on an increasingly larger scale.
And in a great number of countries. similar competitions are
being held. At the peak of all these is the World Karate-do
Championship Tournament. The contests and the dissemination
of karate abroad are the most significant developments in the
postwar years.
132 133
Kumlt Cont t MAKIWARA
Ina prei imi nary contest. a co nt stant is judg d l lil
winner if he scores an ippon within two minutes.
ln a final contest. he must score three ippon in five minutes. Practice with the makiwara is the soul of karate and should
Timing of a stri ke, punch, kick or other finishing technique is not be missed even for a single day. Its value lies not only in
an important factor in judging. When a contestant has not strengthening the parts of the body used in attacking and
scored an ippon but has twice shown technique (waza-ari), blocking but in learning to concentrate the power of the whole
these may be counted as one ippon. If neither contestant has body in the fist at the time of impact. It is also an effective way
clearly won, one may be declared winner by decision, or the to learn distancing.
contest may be declared a draw. Elasticity is the most important quality of the wood, Hinoki
If a contestant actually makes contact with his opponent. he (Japanese cypress) is best, but sugi (Japanese cedar) will do.
is guilty of a foul. since the responsibility is solely his. and he Because of its elasticity and absorbancy, rice straw is used to
may lose on this basis. If the foul is only sliqht. however, he may wrap the portion of the board that is hit. Rubber and sponge are
receive a warning from the referee, with a deduction of points, possible substitutes.
and be allowed to continue. Practice should be steady and diligent, rather than hurried,
Intensive training, mental and physical. is the prerequisite to and strengthening of the body should be done by degrees.
being able to control one's movements, and this in turn is the Hitting too quickly, or too suddenly, or too often may result in
mark of the skilled contestant. Just as in other sports and sprained wrists as well as broken skin.
martial arts. the way to acquire this is through mastery of the Start by striking thirty times with the right fist and thirty
basic techniques. times with the left fist. Increase the number gradually, until it
reaches one hundred fifty, then eventually three hundred.
134
tr n tli nln trlkln(J Strengthening punching
136 137
VI AL POlN
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(3) (.j) 3_ Temple
® -(rl) 4_ Glabella
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@ O~ 8_ Behind the ear
(I:P 9_ Center of lower jaw
@ 10_ Side of the neck
Qil 11 _ Mandible
@
@-- MIDDLE REGION
@ II~
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12_ Supraclavicular fossa
LOWERREGION
27_ Testes
28_ Inguinal region
29_ Side of the lower thigh
--~I) 30_ Fibula
31. Medial malleolus
32_ Instep
33_ Outer si de of the foot
-(lO
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138 139
UPPER REGION
~------------------~~~ 1. Caranal suture
2. Behind the ear
3. Third intervertebral space
@--------------------------~.-
MIDDLE REGION
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140 141
ArI/I.~IJI.' 11 mm , II l. '11 (JI .~lIi uku: dlOl pili J Illt)~. ~
GLO SA Y AIIllsui uchi: hamm r Ilst sulk . 74.
75 Roimvč Tčto: mireculous kara le. 1 30
kentsui-ucbi vokomawashi: side renoji-dachi: L stance. 29
roundhouse hammer-fist stri ke. 76 ren-zuki: alternate punching. 68
kiba-daehi: straddle-Ieg stance. 32 rvosho tsukami-uke: two-hand
kime: finish. 50 grasping-block. 64
kizami-zuki: jab. 68
k6kutsu-daehi: back stance. 31 sanehin-daehi: hourglass stance. 33
k6sa-daehi: crossed -feet stance. seiken: fore-fist. 16
102 seirvuto: ox jaw hand. 21
koshi: ball of the fcot. 25 seiryuto uke: ox-jaw hand block. 63
kumade: bear hand. 22 shiko-daehi: square stance. 34
Shimpi Tote: mysterious karate. 130
mae empi-uehi: forward elbow shittsui: hammer knee. 27
stri ke. 24. 78 shizen-tai: natural position. 28
hait6: ridge hand. 19 sh6 sukui-uke: scooping pal m block.
age-zuki: rising punch. 70 mae-geri: front kick. 86
ashikubi kake-uke: hooking ankle haiwan: upper side of the forearm. mae hiji-ate: forward elbow stri ke. 65
24 shub6: stick arrn. 24
block. 65 78
ate-waza: smashing technique. 77 haiwan nagashi-uke: sweeping mae keage: front snap kick. 86
shuto: sword hand. 19
back-arm block. 62 shut6 uehi: sword hand strike. 74. 82
awase-zuki: U punch. 72 mae kekomi: front thrust kick, 86
hangetsu-daehi: half-moon stance. shut6 uke: sword hand block. 60
maeude deai-osae-uke: pressing
cboku-zuki: straight punch. 66 34 shutsui: hammer hand. 17
forearm block. 62
hanmi: half-front-facing position. 30 shuwan: lower side of the forearm.
cbuden ehoku-zuki: middle straight maeude hineri-uke: twisting forearm
punch. 66 hasami-zuki: scissors punch. 73 block. 62 24
chuden shut6 uke: sword hand heik6-daehi: parailei stance. 29 mawashi empi-uehi: roundhouse sokubo kake-uke: hooking foot
block against body attack. 96 heik6-zuki: parailei punch. 73 elbow stri ke. 24 block. 65
chuden ude uke: forearm block heisoku-daehi: informal attention mawashi-geri: roundhouse kick. 88 sokumen awase-uke: si de combined
against body attack; soto-uke. stance. 29 mawashi-zuki: roundhouse punch. block. 64
outside inward. 58; uchi-uke. in- hiji: elbow. 24 71 sokutei mawashi-uke: circular so le
side outward. 59 hiji-ate: elbow stri ke. 77 mizu-nagare: flowing water position block. 65
hiraken: fore-knuckle fist. 18 of the forearm. 104 sokutei osae-uke: pressing sole
den-zuki: consecutive punchinq. 69 hizagashira: knee. 27 morate uke: augmented forearm block. 65
block. 64 sokuto: sword foot. 25
embusen: performance line. 94 ippon-ken: one-knuckle fist. 17 morote-zuki: two-hand punch. 69 sokuto osae-uke: pressing sword-
empi: elbow. 24 musubi-daehi: informal attention foot block. 65
empi uehi: elbow stri ke. 77 j6dan age-uke: upper block against stance. toes out. 29 soto mawashi-uehi: roundhouse
ensh6: round heel. 26 head attack. 57 stri ke. outside invvard. 83
j6dan ehoku-zuki: upper straight nagashi-zuki: flowing punch. 68 sukui-uke: scooping block. 65
fud6-daehi: rooted stance. 35 punch. 66 naiwan: inner side of the forearm.
fumikiri: cutting kick. 87 josokutei: raised sole. 25 24 tate empi-uehi: upward elbow stri ke.
fumikomi: stamping kick. 87 jUji uke: X block. 64 nakadaka-ippon-ken: middle finger 24. 80
one- knuckle fist. 18 tate biji-ete: upward elbow stri ke. 80
gaiwan: outer side of the forearm. 24 kagi-zuki: hook punch. 71 nakadaka-ken: middle finger knuckle tate mawashi-uehi:vertical strike. 75
gedan barai: downward block. 56 kaish6: open-hand. 15. 19 fist. 1 8 tate shuto-uke: vertical sword-hand
gedan ehoku-zuki: lower straight kakato: heel. 26 nami-gaeshi: returning wave kick. block. 61
punch. 66 kake snutč-uke: hooking sword- 106 tate-zuki: vertical punch. 70
gedan keke-uke: downward hooking hand block. 61 neko-ashi-daehi: cat leg stance. 35 Te: hand. 130
block. 65 kakiwake-uke: reverse wedge block. nidan-geri: two-level kick. 90 teiji-daehi: T stance. 29
gVaku mawashi-ged: reverse round- 64 nihon nukite: two-finger spear hand. teish6: heel of the palm. 21
house kick. 88 kekuto: bent-wrist. 23 20 teishč awase-uke: combined heel of
qveku-zuk): reverse punch. 68 kekuto-uke: bent-wrist block. 63 nukite: spear hand. 20 the palm block. 65
keage: snap kick. 86. 87 teishč uke: heel of the palm block.
haehinoji-daehi: open-Ieg stance. keito: chicken head vvrist, 23 oi-zuki: lunge punch. 68 63
29 keito uke: chicken-head wrist block. otosbi empi-uehi: downward elbow tekubi kake-uke: hooking wrist
haishu: back-hand. 20 63 stri ke. 24. 81 block. 62
haishu uke: back-hand block. 62 kekomi: thrust kick, 86. 87 otoshi hiji-ate: downward elbow te nagashi-uke: sweeping hand
haisoku: instep. 26 ken: fist. 1 5 stri ke. 81 block. 62
143
142
fi O I -uA: I II 11111 li IIld Ili tl~.( ~ 1I~'IiI/(J At A 1/11: IlII ~ thru ki k.
t usut: Iron h mm r. 1 /
tobi-qeri: jump kick. O wont~: sword I'm. 24
tobi voko-geri: jumping slde kick. O weshide: eagle hand. 22
Tate: Okinawan karate. 130
tsuki: punchinq. 16. 66 vama-zuki: wide U punch. 72
tsumasaki: toe tips. 27 voko empi-uchi: side elbow stri ke.
78
uehi: stri king. 16. 66 voko-qeri: si de kick. 87
uehi-haehinoji-daehi: inverted voko hiji-ate: side elbow stri ke. 78
open-Ieg stance. 29 yoko keage: side snap kick. 87
uehi mawashi-uehi: roundhouse voko kekomi: side thrust kick. 87
stri ke. inside outward. 83 voko mawashi empi-uehi: side
ude: arrn. 24 roundhouse elbow strike. 79
uke: blocking. 54 voko mawashi hiji-ate: si de round-
uraken: back-list. 16 house elbow stri ke. 79
uraken-uchi: back-fist stri ke. 74. 75 voko mawashi-uchi: horizontal
ura-zuki: close punch. 70 stri ke. 75
ushiro empi-uehi: back elbow stri ke.
24. 79 zenkutsu-daehi: front stance. 30
ushiro hiji-ate: back elbow stri ke. 79
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EPi!~'~~i'Ji ::kB;$:EPIlUl!t;,tii:1i
© <PilJiEf!il1977
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ISBN 978-4-7700-0608-0
Post-World War II, karate demonstrations for the Allied Forces sparked interest and facilitated its international expansion. These exhibitions showcased karate to servicemen, who were unfamiliar with the art, and motivated countries like the United States to send groups for intensive karate training, further promoting its adoption and teaching worldwide .
Differentiating karate competitions into kata and kumite categories reflects the distinct skills and philosophies required in each. Kata emphasizes technique, power, and form, showcasing individual skill and understanding, whereas kumite focuses on applying techniques in combat scenarios, highlighting strategy, timing, and adaptability. Both fields demand unique competences and are judged on different criteria, embodying the comprehensive nature of karate .
Kime, meaning an explosive attack executed with maximum power in the shortest time, is essential in karate-do as it epitomizes the precision and intensity required in martial arts. It reflects controlled strength and is fundamental to effective self-defense and mastery over body movements .
Synchronizing karate techniques such as punching involves coordinating the arm movement with hip rotation, ensuring that power is maximized through body mechanics. For instance, techniques like the U Punch require precise alignment and timing where fore-fists punch simultaneously, utilizing body's full power and maintaining guard, essential for effectiveness and balance .
Critical factors in judging kata competitions include the correct use of power, appropriate speed of techniques, and proper body dynamics such as stretching and contraction. These elements ensure that the performance reflects precision, strength, and control. Additionally, adherence to proper sequence and finishing positions are essential, with point deductions for any mistakes .
Kata, a refined practice in Okinawa, served as the foundational form from which modern karate evolved. As karate transitioned to a modern martial art, kata developed alongside kumite, which was introduced to diversify and enhance training practices. This evolution from solely practicing kata to integrating dynamic combat practices signifies karate's progression into a comprehensive martial art .
Advanced elbow techniques in karate, such as the back elbow strike (ushiro empi-uchi) and upward elbow strike (tate empi-uchi), utilize the elbow as a powerful tool in close combat. These techniques allow for swift, powerful strikes when larger movements are not feasible, maximizing damage with minimal wind-up, thus enhancing their effectiveness in combat situations .
Karate's development reflects cultural exchanges through its transformation from a localized Okinawan practice to a globally recognized martial art. These interactions facilitated the adoption of karate terminologies and practices to suit broader audiences and its inclusion in international training programs, notably post-WWII, signifying a significant cultural spread and adaptation .
The practice of fundamental techniques is crucial in developing a competent karate practitioner as it ensures a strong foundation for executing advanced techniques. Prematurely engaging in advanced practices like jiyu kumite without mastering fundamentals often results in inferior performance compared to those who have diligently practiced basic techniques step by step .
Funakoshi significantly impacted karate by transforming it from a mystical art to a modern, systematic martial art. He adjusted its teachings for broader accessibility by altering the terminology and training methods, contributing to the robust expansion and eventual establishment of karate as a widely practiced martial art. This was solidified with the publication of "Karate-do Kyohen" and the formation of karate societies .









