Karatedo Doshinkan
Training
Training is 24/7
We utilize our training in every aspect of our lives. It increases our awareness of our surroundings. It influences our confidence. It influences our character. It influences our overall health and attitude.
As soon as we walk into the dojo, we begin to prepare for class. We clear our minds from our daily activites: work, family, traffic, etc. and open our minds to the teachings we are about to receive. No two classes are ever the same. From the very first class, we observe and practice our dojo etiquette.
Preparing our mind and body
We begin each class with a short ceremony which focuses our attention on being present at the dojo. We then use movement, stretching and breathing techniques to warm up our body. We practice the basic techniques: blocks, kicks, stances, and strikes.
Partner training
We work with partners to understand how the basic techniques can be used in self-defense. We do not treat our partner as our enemy and assist each other in becoming better at whatever technique we are practicing. Our partner training also includes understanding of how to redirect an attacker’s energy, how to use your own energy in defending yourself, and how to avoid being a target in the first place.
Kata
Kata means “a model, a form, or a pattern”. It is a formal, prearranged sequence of movements that have been ingeniously choreograhed by the traditional masters of various schools of martial arts. Kata is a main component of our training in Karatedo Doshinkan. We have well over 100 different kata.
Kata serve as a database of the principles of Karate movement, fighting strategy, focus and direction of energy. Kata are designed so that they develop us physically, emotionally and mentally. Each kata develops our basic technique and instills in us the right patterns of breathing, timing, agility and “Ki” (circulating vital life energy that flows through all living things).
Our Karatedo Doshinkan training has an extensive kata curriculum which originates from traditional Okinawan Karatedo. Many of our kata are unique to our system as they were developed by Hanshi 10 Dan Isao Ichikawa, the founder of Karatedo Doshinkan.
a message From Hanshi Masako
In daily social life, we must be humble, and always keep in mind human decency, mutual respect, gratitude, and sincerity.
KARATEDŌ aims to build a strong and healthy body. Through our techniques and kata, we work to master the most important aspects of Karatedō training. To do this, SHIN-GI-TAI 心-技-体 mind, techniques, and body must be in harmony. Through SHINDŌ 心道, the way of the heart, we are guided to become of greater service to humanity. It is important for each of us to be humble and respectful.
To become a great Budōka, practitioners of Karatedō Dōshinkan, whether young or old, must be self-disciplined as they work tirelessly to polish their soul and spirit. A Budōka always takes responsibility for their actions and confidently moves forward in life with their heart filled with courage and compassion. Each practitioner has a different reason for being involved in Karatedō. However, over time, it is also important to move in the direction of seeking our own change.
The key to the importance of practicing Karatedō lies in how humble and serious we can be, and the belt represents the evidence of our efforts in stages. It is important to improve our self-control, including basic techniques, and to be able to generate momentum and spirit in our movements. Always be aware of the harmony between mind, techniques, and the body that forms them.