Virginia Beach Karate School
August 2023 | Issue 1
Unveiling the Essence of Stance in Life and Combat
Greetings and welcome, readers, to the inaugural edition of our newsletter, Dachi. The very essence of our chosen name encapsulates a profound truth that resonates not only within the realm of martial arts but also in the broader scope of life itself. Dachi, which translates to “stance” in the world of martial arts, symbolizes the pivotal point upon which every successful endeavor is constructed.
Consider, for a moment, the image of a mighty oak tree. Its towering branches and verdant leaves are awe-inspiring, but beneath the surface, it is the strength of its roots that supports this grandeur. Similarly, in the world of martial arts, the stance, or Dachi, is that hidden strength – the silent architect of every technique, every movement, and every strategy.
Just as a house requires a sturdy foundation to withstand the tests of time, our journeys in martial arts and in life necessitate a solid base upon which to build. Dachi, the embodiment of this concept, serves as a reminder that success is a culmination of mindful preparation, unwavering dedication, and an unshakable foundation.
With each edition of Dachi, we embark on a journey to lay down a robust groundwork for understanding the intricate ideas and profound concepts that martial arts encompass. From the nuanced techniques of different disciplines to the philosophical underpinnings that guide practitioners, our newsletter aspires to serve as the cornerstone of knowledge and insight.
As we delve into the rich tapestry of martial arts, we invite you to join us in exploring not only the physical aspects but also the mental and spiritual dimensions that these disciplines offer. Dachi will be your guiding light, illuminating the path to comprehension and mastery. Just as a martial artist refines their stance to perfection, we aim to refine our content to be a reliable source of enlightenment and enrichment.
Thank you for embarking on this journey with us. Here’s to building a strong foundation of knowledge, just as every martial artist cultivates an unyielding stance. Welcome to Dachi – where wisdom and insight converge, and where every step is taken with purpose and strength.
What do we mean by the essence of karate?
Essence refers to the fundamental and inherent qualities that define the core nature of something, encompassing its unique and essential characteristics. The essence of karate is dependent on why one trains in it.
The original goal of Karate, originally referred to as Te or Uchina-te “Ming Hand,” was to develop self-protection skills. Eventually, the essence shifted away from self-protection skills to the Japanese idea of Do, and the result was Karate, the way of enlightenment.
When we hear that Karate has lost its essence, we need to understand that Karate has gone through many changes, and the fundamental objectives have changed.
There are many seniors who were trained in the late 1960s in what they refer to as the old ways. From their Senseis, they learned to do Kata hard, to fight hard. Karate training, based on their collective experience, was hard and strong. It leaves me to wonder if the older students of their time also said they are not learning real Te.
Karate is rooted in Chinese Boxing; by examining White Crane and other Chinese martial arts, we can conclude that the old Te was most likely closer to Kung fu than to modern Karate, with regards to flow and the utilization of potential and kinetic energy. If this is the case, this is the old way and the essence of Te, the root of Karate.
But let’s bring the essence to the modern era, by defining the essence of karate to be the hard-hitting, hard-practicing way that the American GIs were taught. These GIs were essentially entrusted by their respective Senseis to bring this to America. The GIs began to teach Karate and the first generation was taught the hard method of training and were introduced to bunkai and waza. As time progressed, these students were promoted, and they began to teach and promote students. Eventually, the teachings became diluted, leaving just a shadow of what was intended.
This is the result of the inverse square law of Knowledge, a term I borrowed from my photography background. Summed up, it means that the further away you are from the source of knowledge, the less knowledge that is transmitted. This is why my lineage in Traditional martial arts is so important.
Seniors of the 60s consider themselves to be 1st generation students from the head of the System. The black belts that they promote are then regarded as 2nd generation students, and the black belts of the second generation are 3rd generation. As the generation gap increases, the institutional knowledge decreases in direct proportion to the generational gap.
The associations have found a way to “fix” this. They have promoted many of the 3rd, 4th, and 5th generation students to the rank of Kyoshi, making them students of the Humbo Dojos and therefore direct students of the head of the system. It is implied that they are closer to the light than they truly are.
Many of the first-generation instructors routinely point out that karate schools are simply teaching dance and selling black belts. That today’s karate schools are not teaching the true essence of karate. This is true in many instances; karate schools are more focused on memorizing kata, yakusoku kumites, and superficial bunkai. Though they complain about the loss of quality, at camps, they don’t make corrections to fix it at the source, with their seniors. Instead, they try to correct the students. These corrections simply fall on deaf ears, as the student says “Ok, Thank you,” and it is soon forgotten. Ideally, if the seniors want to try to fix it, they would collectively round up their seniors, who they have promoted over the years, and start making corrections as they did so long ago.
The essence of Karate, as taught to the American GIs in the late 60s, has been lost because the most senior students failed to oversee that the quality of the teaching continued.
What is more important: function or form? My journey in Karate began with learning Naihanchi Itchi-dan, later named Naihanchi Shodan. Under the guidance of my Sensei, Kyoshi Noel Smith, I embarked on the path of memorizing this kata. During this phase, an international Kumite champion, a senior student of Sensei, tried to impart the moves and their workings to a 7-year-old me. This encounter, although stern and challenging, left an indelible mark on me, even leading me to pause my training. Yet, the memory of the kata remained vivid.
Upon returning after a hiatus, I continued my journey by progressing to Nidan and Sandan, emphasizing the forms while neglecting the bunkai. My focus narrowed to proper stance, hand positioning, and balance. With time, I ventured into learning Pinan kata. The dojo’s leadership transitioned to a senior black belt, pivoting the emphasis from “perfect” kata to the functional aspects of the techniques. His perspective was that kata should prioritize function over aesthetics; like a hammer’s simplicity in driving a nail, the efficiency of technique is paramount.
Focus on Form:
Karate-do centers on cultivating elegant kata, characterized by grace, presentation, and precise hand placements. Karate-ka dedicate much of their dojo time to practicing kata, iterating over corrections, and starting anew. Gradually, corrections diminish, leading to the introduction of new katas, perpetuating the cyclical process. Ultimately, students test and advance to the next belt level. This commitment to form represents an unending quest for refining kata perfection, particularly suited for competitors showcasing kata to judges, driven by predefined rules of right and wrong positions. However, interpretations of these “right” positions can vary depending on the instructor.
Focus on Function:
Function places significance on the “why” and is less concerned with presentation, contrasting the rigid structure of form. It fosters a conceptual understanding of techniques and movements, allowing for personal interpretation and expression, which form alone restricts. A function-oriented Karate-ka may not impress in competition but gains fluidity and dynamism in combat. Approaching kata through a combative lens introduces degrees of effectiveness, influenced by various factors. Form-based kata remains static and rigid, while functional, combative kata is dynamic, mirroring the ever-shifting nature of opponents.
Bunkai:
Under the form-centric approach, bunkai supplements a mental visualization of a technique’s essence, injecting vitality into the performance. These interpretations often remain superficial, primarily enhancing the kata’s visual aspect.
Conversely, functional training endows bunkai with a framework, suggesting potential applications. Once internalized, these suggestions empower students to instinctively respond to diverse situations with rapid, decisive execution.
Summary:
The choice between function and form in Karate is a complex dichotomy. Focusing on form entails an unceasing pursuit of perfecting kata, well-suited for competition but potentially lacking combative fluidity. Conversely, a function-focused approach prioritizes the efficacy of techniques, embracing dynamic applications for real-world situations. Bunkai in form-based practice adds depth to presentation, while in function-based training, it molds instinctive reactions. Ultimately, the interplay of function and form shapes the martial artist’s journey, each perspective contributing distinct values to their training.
Within the realm of traditional martial arts, a common adage resounds: “each kata is its own fighting system,” and the pursuit of mastery within any given kata can span an entire lifetime. In the expansive landscape of karate schools, where a dozen or more distinct kata can be encountered, one might naturally wonder: does this imply the necessity of living out multiple lifetimes to perfect this array? Yet, the answer deviates from this initial arithmetic.
Embedded within the diverse tapestry of karate systems, the essence of each style converges onto its foundational kata. For me, the heartbeat of my journey in the realm of Kobayashi Shorin-ryu lies in the Naihanchi Ichidan (shodan) kata. An intriguing phenomenon unfurls within this sphere – every subsequent kata within my system seamlessly branches out from the core of the Naihanchi kata.
A prevailing observation during conversations with seasoned karate practitioners of high rank revolves around a curious facet. Due to implied edicts or perhaps misconstrued understandings, few have dared to alter or venture beyond the boundaries of the Naihanchi kata. This is where the narrative transitions, for in merely manipulating stances, angles, hand configurations, and the symphony of timing, the enigmatic nuances enshrined within the Pinans, Passais, Kusanku, and myriad other katas are unveiled.
Yet, this voyage of exploration does not commence with the swift acquisition of Naihanchi alone. Instead, it necessitates an intimate familiarity with the spectrum of katas that populate the system. This familiarity serves as the catalyst, enabling practitioners to embark on a quest for the latent movements nestled within Naihanchi. And herein lies the paradox: the key to this transformative journey is, in truth, to continually practice and refine the Naihanchi itself.
The hallmark Naihanchi stance (Naihanchi Dachi) can undergo metamorphosis into the Neko Dachi stance, while hands, now unfurled in the distinctive “shuto” style, convey an altered narrative. The lateral movements of stepping left and right metamorphose into diagonal trajectories set at 45-degree angles, culminating in a rotation of the body during the culmination of a double punch, akin to the symphony of Passai. Even the double blocks can elegantly shift into the realm of Passai aesthetics with the crossing of legs. The tapestry of discoveries unfurls limitlessly, yet a palpable apprehension lingers, an unease echoing the venerable dictate, “Never change Kata.”
In the dichotomy between tradition and evolution, an intriguing crossroads emerges. The essence of this exploration is not to alter for alteration’s sake, but to revere and engage with the living essence of kata. The essence endures, albeit veiled, awaiting the discerning eye to uncover its multitude of forms. In the end, it’s not about merely changing the kata, but rather embarking on a transformative journey of understanding the art form in its purest sense, embracing both its traditional roots and its potential for evolution.
Don’t be affraid to experiment with the kata, imbrace it and make it your own by applying your understand and personal essence to it.
As the proud owner of CoVa Karate, I’m thrilled to highlight the remarkable advantages awaiting teens in our outdoor karate program. Taking place at Mount Trashmore park, our program offers a refreshing departure from indoor routines, allowing teenagers to bask in the sun’s invigorating rays and breathe in the crisp, revitalizing air. This unique environment injects renewed energy into their training, amplifying each technique with a sense of renewed enthusiasm.
CoVa Karate’s park-based program for teens presents more than just physical benefits; it also enhances mental clarity and emotional well-being. The serene backdrop fosters a natural space for mindfulness and stress relief, providing a unique arena for focused and present training. By integrating the natural surroundings with karate techniques, teenagers not only master the art of self-defense but also cultivate resilience and mindfulness that extend far beyond the training mat.
In brief, our program offers teens a rejuvenating approach to learning and growth. Held at Mount Trashmore, the program optimizes the fresh air and sunlight, enhancing their physical health, mental focus, and emotional equilibrium. It’s a distinctive opportunity for teenagers to embrace the outdoors while refining their karate skills. Join us at CoVa Karate to experience the powerful fusion of nature and martial arts.
To learn more visit kara-te.net
Greetings to all the business professionals seeking a dynamic way to enhance their well-being and boost their professional edge! We are thrilled to extend an exclusive invitation to join our invigorating karate classes at [Your Karate School]. Our tailored program offers a holistic approach that seamlessly integrates the teachings of martial arts with the demands of your corporate lifestyle.
Why Karate for Professionals?
In today’s fast-paced business world, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential. Our karate classes provide a perfect avenue to cultivate physical fitness, mental clarity, and stress relief. Through our expertly crafted sessions, you’ll develop essential skills like discipline, focus, and goal-setting – attributes that directly translate to success in the professional realm. With our flexible schedule and dedicated instructors, you can enjoy the empowering benefits of karate while accommodating your busy work agenda.
What You Can Expect:
By participating in our karate classes, you’ll embark on a transformative journey that not only strengthens your body but also sharpens your mind. Our program is designed to improve your concentration, enhance your confidence, and nurture your overall well-being. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or new to the world of martial arts, our classes cater to all skill levels, fostering a supportive community where you can thrive personally and professionally.
Don’t miss out on this exceptional opportunity to discover the synergy between karate and professional growth. Join us at [Your Karate School] to embark on a path of empowerment, self-improvement, and holistic well-being. Your journey to success starts with a single step – let that step be into our dojo.
To sum up, “Traditional karate” might evoke more questions than certainties, inviting us to challenge its assumed virtues.