O Sensei Funakoshi Who is Funakoshi Sensei? O Sensei Funakoshi Gichin (1868-1957) is the founder of Shotokan Karate and is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of modern karate. He was born in Okinawa, Japan and was born premature which, in that time, was normally an omen of ill-health…
Category: Blog
Masatoshi Nakayama Sensei In this, our second post we look briefly on the life of Nakayama Masatoshi sensei (1913-1987). Nakayama sensei was an exceptional martial artist and ground-breaking thinker, who was instrumental in the development and popularization of Shotokan karate. Revolutionising karate tournaments, studying in China, helping to found and run the Japan Karate Association,…
Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei In this, the first of three posts, we look to briefly explore the linage of Shotokan Karate, working from our association, the JKS, back in time to Funakoshi Sensei – the founder of the Shotokan style. While the JKS is currently led by Kagawa Shihan, whose reputation and fame speaks for itself…
Spirit First, Technique Second “Spirit First, Technique Second” This is often read as the idea of striving for perfection while understanding in reality that physical perfection is impossible. Or studying to perfect your mindset and spirit so you can keep trying in the face of adversity. In the dojo this is essential, can…
First Understand Yourself Also translated as: “First understand yourself, then understand others.” Outside the dojo we all know that person who imposes their opinions on others, or who cant of letting others learn without offering up unwanted solutions. This precept highlights the importance of self-awareness and empathy in our interactions with ourselves and…
Karate is an Aid to Justice “Karate Is an Aid to Justice” This is a precept that is, compared to some of the other 20, relatively direct in its meaning. The real depth and meaning in this precept comes from studying the word “justice”. Whereas a lot of focus is directed towards the…
There is No First Attack “Karate ni sente nashi,” – “There is no first attack in karate.” The ultimate goal of karate is to defend oneself and to avoid violence if possible. This can be paired with the dojo kun (dojo rules) of “refraining from impetuous and violent behaviour”. Physically, a karate practitioner should…
Karate Begins & Ends with Respect This is often translated as “Karate begins and ends with rei” meaning to bow. In a literal sense this is true, every lesson starts when you walk in the door and bow and ends the same way on leaving. At the start of each lesson the instructor also leads…
What Is Shotokan? ✍️ ** MINI BLOG ** ✍️ Our style of karate 🥋 is known as Shotokan, which is a traditional Japanese martial art developed in the early 20th century by Sensei Gichin Funakoshi. It is known for its strong, linear techniques and emphasis on proper form and posture. 📐 One of the key principles of…