I just returned from a training trip to Naha Okinawa, the birthplace of Karate. This was my third trip, and by far the best, but also the most challenging as I was testing for my Yondan in front of Komura Sensei, Sanguinetti Sensei and Kimiya Sensei.
Read moreA Note of Thanks
You have all forced me to continue to improve and grow. I thank you all.
Read moreExploring Kata
If Karate-do is an art, then kata is the martial artist’s portfolio. Like any good painting, kata can be enjoyed on the superficial level for the sheer beauty of its movements. But as the talent of the artist grows those same movements begin to display a hidden quality, much in the way the brush strokes of a fine painter add depth to the subject. This hidden quality is the bunkai, or application of, the kata.
Read moreMy Shotokan is Not "Pure"
"Because karate eventually takes on a deeply personal character, it may be said that every karate-ka has his own karate." Gichin Funakoshi
Read moreEnglish Translations of Kata Names
Name of Kata Translation
Heian Peaceful Mind
Sochin Energetic Calm
Tekki Iron Horse
Nijushi-ho 24 steps
Bassai Storm a Fortress
Gojushiho-Sho 54 steps
Kanku To View the Sky
Chinte Many Hands
Jion Named after a Temple in China
Unsu Cloud Hands
Empi Flying Swallow
Gankaku Crane on a Rock
Jutte (Jitte) Ten Hands
Meikyo Polish a Mirror
Hangetsu Cresent Moon
Wankan Kings Crown
