On my arrival in Australia during 1970, I was asked by people how many bricks or tiles I could smash with my hands. I think it is appropriate therefore to explain my thoughts on what Karate is. Karate is not just a means of self-defence, but a health giving sport and vigorous physical exercise. With increasing skill it becomes a way of life and mental discipline. Real strength from Karate comes not from breaking and smashing exercises; Karate is not that simple. Long years of diligent practice are required.
Karate is a natural outgrowth of the martial spirit. When I was first learning my seniors impressed this upon me. My teachers insisted on speed and precision to build technique. I know of people who can smash five bricks with one blow of their hand, yet it is impossible to smash five bricks with a pistol bullet. Some may conclude then, a Karate blow is more powerful than a bullet – but Karate strikes can be defended against; bullets cannot.
The importance of technique cannot be underestimated, for with the right training, a small framed person could easily defeat an opponent who relies solely on brute force. From concentration on stance, speed and timing, and by the development of mental discipline, a very powerful blow can be delivered. The greatest teachers of bygone days knew no other way to practice. From their teachings modern Karate has developed.
Koryu Kei Shin Kan Karate-Do is practised in Australia using these traditional values as the basis for the development of our art.
M. Takasaka Shuseki Shihan
(Chairmen)
