Karate-do:

What is 'Karate-do'?
Interpretation of the meaning of Karate-do given by Shihan Akio Minakami, 8th Dan in 2000

"Have you ever knocked a glass from a shelf and in a split second caught the said glass and replaced it only to continue what you were originally doing. This is the true meaning of Karate-do.

The feeling of emptyness, 'Mushin' or no-mind. The individual acting in a subconcious state, not anticipating, not reacting but simply acting without a moments hesitation. For this action (not reaction) to occur the individual's mind must not be held on the moment but continue thoughtless. If the said individual does either mindfully hold his or her actions or ponder over the concequences of the glass hitting the floor this cannot be true Karate-do".

Japanese Kanji: 'Karate-do'

Explanation
Literally Karate-do is translated as 'The way of the empty hand' :

'Kara' - Empty
'Te' - Hand
'Do' - Way or Path

Neverthless, looking deeper into the makeup of the para-phrase 'Karate-do' we could also define it as such:

'Kara' - Emptiness
'Te' - Method
'Do' - Way

With this in mind 'Karate-do' now becomes 'a method of achieving emptiness'. Through correct, determined and disciplined training in traditional Karate-do [as with any art/sport/pastime] the practitioner will experience an enlightenment whereby movements and actions become automatic or 'empty' just like the above example of 'emptiness' in catching and replacing a falling glass.

Let's face it, this is found in all sporting examples and the idea is not as profound as it first appears. Imagine talented Rugby stars; Dan Carter & Johnnie Wilkinson and the skills they demonstrate when successfully making a conversion from the touchline, or the almost automatic response Footballers such as David Beckham & Frank Lampard demonstrate during a closed skill such as a direct free kick.

This philisophical explanation is not as far removed as it seems and is far more in keeping with all Japanese 'Do' or 'Arts' and was the original intention when feudal Japan and its society lost the need for methods suitable for the battlefield 'Jitsu' and gained schemes necessary for developing Japanese character 'Do' . Other examples could include:

What does training in Karate-do involve?
Karate is known primarily as a hard style striking art, featuring linear punches, blocks, kicks, knee/elbow strikes and openhanded techniques. However, soft punches and blocks, grappling, joint manipulations, locks, restraints, throws, and vital point striking are often an inherent part of many karate styles.

In general, there are many components to modern karate training. One common division is between the areas of Kihon (basics or fundamentals), Kata (forms), and Kumite (sparring). Another popular division is between art, sport, and self-defence training. Weapons comprise another important training area, as well as the psychological elements incorporated into a proper Kokoro (attitude) such as perseverance, fearlessness, virtue, and leadership skills. Often in the execution of a technique, Karateka are encouraged to issue a loud Kiai or 'spirit shout'.

The style of Karate taught through at the Tokon Academy is traditional Shotokan Karate-do but has a heavy influence from Shito Ryu Karate-do and Yamanni Ryu Bo Jitsu taught by Shihan Akio Minakami.

Can anyone train in Karate-do?
Indeed Karate training is for everyone and can be practised by men, women and children.

How good is Karate-do for fitness?
Like any martial art training in Karate-do is one of the most balanced and complete ways of keeping in good physical condition.

Karate-do requires strenuous use of the entire body in which legs; hips, spine, shoulders and arms are co-ordinated to develop balance, flexibility, poise, speed, strength and an extremely efficient cardiovascular system.

Do you have grades in Karate-do?
The Tokon Academy does run special grades within its Karate-do programme. As below:

What do I need to start?
Simply come along to one of our Karate-do classes and train with the rest of us. It is probably best to arrive a liitle before class in loose comfortable clothing. Upon enrolling and signing up as 'full' member to the Tokon Academy you will receive a FREE Karate Gi (suit) and Obi (belt).

For a breakdown of membership options etc please check out the membership section by clicking here

Who will teach me?
All Karate classes at the Tokon Academy are taken by David Webb. During the junior classes he is ably assisted by a number of Junior assistant instructors.