  |
|||
|
September 19, 2008
Midwest/JKA Dojos & Instructors |
Our Karate Style
About our Karate Style "Karate" (pronounced "Kah-rah-tay") is a Japanese word that means empty hand and refers to a karate student's ability to offer a defense without the use of weapons. Midwest's style of Karate is referred to as Shotokan or JKA Karate (Japan Karate Association). JKA Karate is known for fast, powerful kicks and punches; its deep, driving stances; the friendly discipline of its classes; and its good form. Good form means that you know how to use your body in a way that will allow you to get the most power from it. Karate will not teach you to how to "take-a-punch" You cannot be conditioned to "take-a-punch" like the kind you are trying to do with Karate. The average heavyweight boxer punches with 600 pounds of force per square inch. An advanced Karate black belt can punch with a force of 2000 pounds per square inch. When you are new to Karate, you can be fooled by the feeling of contact. Even a weak blow (by Karate standards) can hurt a person. If you become satisfied with such techniques, you will never learn how to use all of your strength. Goals Goals are individual things and people take Karate for a variety of reasons such as self-defense, physical fitness, fun, competition, and confidence. Gichin Funakoshi, founder of modern Karate, said "The ultimate aim of Karate lies not in victory nor defeat but in the perfection of the character of its participants." See Dojo Etiquette for a list of expected behaviour in the dojo. The Karate Uniform New students do not require a uniform until they attain their first rank. However based on past experiences once new students see their fellow students in a uniform, most want one. Good quality beginner uniforms can be bought starting around $35 for children The Belt - There is a special knot used to tie the belt. It is called a "square knot" The Gi - The Karate uniform is called a "Gi" (pronounced "gee") Our karate style is a white top with kimona-style front opening, and white pants. The cuffs should never be rolled up during training, because hands or feet could get hooked causing injury. The uniform should be plain white without logos or writing.
|
 |
|
|
Contact: Jerry Marr karatemb@icenter.net
|
|||