Koei-Kan Karate-Do

The goals of Koei-Kan Karate-Do, as I see them, are first to convey to the student an efficient and functional system of self defense, second, to expand the knowledge of karate-do history and philosophy, and third, to enhance the society through the improvement of the individual.

Through the study of Koei-Kan Karate-Do, one learns of the three elements that influence and subsequently make up life in general. These include:

1. The state of society
2. The state of nature
3. The state of the individual

In traditional karate-do, it is common to practice kata, or forms. Kata is a pre-arranged pattern of attacks and defenses. These movements are practiced in sequence. To properly practice kata, one must understand each movement. Understanding comes from breaking down each part of the kata and improving all of the areas of performance. Some of these areas include technique, stance, breathing, and timing. It is important to utilize visualization when executing kata.

When a student begins the practice of kata, they are given specific bunkai, or meanings for each movement. The techniques, stances, and the flow of the kata are scrutinized, altered, and practiced over and over again until the individual reaches an acceptable level of performance. In the same fashion that the sword is tempered and forged through hammering and extreme temperatures, one’s kata needs to be forged through repetition and scrutiny.

What are your needs?  What do you want from the Martial Arts?

Self-Defense - The ability to successfully defend oneself in a realistic situation requires the practice of competent techniques with enough repetition to facilitate reflexive movement and response under extenuating circumstances.

Physical Conditioning – By creating greater strength, speed, agility and fluidity one prepares themselves for a more enjoyable existence as well as a more energized life.

Mental Discipline – The ability to focus on an intended outcome – the ability to choose a course of action and maintain the mental state necessary to see it to fruition.

Self-Esteem - The beneficial way in which one sees oneself.  Martial discipline is the ability to perform – as directed – even when greatly challenged.  Eventually, the need for outside stimulus is diminished which leads to Self-Discipline.  Self-Discipline leads to Self-Reliance. Self-Reliance leads to Self-Confidence. Self-Confidence leads to Self-Respect.  Self-Respect leads to higher Self-Esteem.

Confidence – Through the accomplishment of increasingly difficult challenges, one develop s a greater sense of ability and surety of success.  Confidence grows in layers as each new obstacle is overcome.

Co-ordination – the ability to meet the demands of physical movement.  As one experiences greater diversity of movement, the body becomes more capable of adapting to varying functional demands.