Kyokushin Karate is a hard style of karate, characterized by its realistic full-contact style of fighting, it’s emphasis on graceful power in technique and it’s use of “tameshiwari” in the development of spirit and character.
This style of karate was developed during the 1930′s, 40′s and 50′s by the founder, Sosai Masutatsu Oyama, 10th Dan. Kyokushinkaikan Karate is administrered by the International Karate Organization-Kyokushinkaikan. The Kyokushinkaikan is one of the largest karate organizations in the world with over ten million members worldwide, with it’s head-quarters in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, Japan.
Currently, the IKO is directed by “Kancho” Shokei Matsui
Kyokushin Spirit
“The heart of our karate is real fighting.
There can be no proof without real fighting.
Without proof there is no trust.
Without trust there is no respect.
This is a definition in the world of Martial Arts.
The Kyokushin Philosophy
Keep your head low (modesty), eyes high (ambition), mouth shut (serenity); base yourself on filial piety and benefit others.
The Dojo Kun (Dojo Oath)
- We will train our hearts and bodies for a firm unshaking spirit.
- We will pursue the true meaning of the Martial Way, So that in time, our senses may be alert.
- With true vigor, we will seek to cultivate a spirit of self denial.
- We will observe the rules of courtesy, respect our superiors, and refrain from violence.
- We will follow our god, and never foget the true virtue of humility.
- We will look upwards to wisdom and strength, not seeking other desires.
- All our lives, through the discipline of karate, we will seek to fulfill the true meaning of the kyokushin way.
- The Martial Way begins and ends with courtesy.
Therefore, be properly and genuinely courteous at all times. - Following the Martial Way is like scaling a cliff – continue upwards without rest.
It demands absolute and unfaltering devotion to the task at hand. - Strive to seize the initiative in all things, all the time guarding against actions stemming from selfish animosity or thoughtlessness.
- Even for the Martial Artist, the place of money cannot be ignored.
Yet one should be careful never to become attached to it. - The Martial Way is centered in posture.
Strive to maintain correct posture at all times. - The Martial Way begins with one thousand days and is mastered after ten thousand days of training.
- In the Martial Arts, introspection begets wisdom.
Always see contemplation on your action as an opportunity to improve. - The nature and purpose of the Martial Way is universal.
All selfish desires should be roasted in the tempering fires of hard training. - The Martial Arts begins with a point and end in a circle.
Straight lines stem from this principle. - The true essence of the Martial Way can only be realized through experience.
Knowing this, learn never to fear its demands. - Always remember: In the Martial Arts the rewards of a confident and Grateful heart are truly abundant.