What is Karate?

  Traditional Karate-Do is a science and philosophy of fighting and self-defense.  Karates’ roots can be traced back over the centuries to the Orient.  All too often Karate is thought of as just a means of fighting.  In karate we train to develop a strong mind and body as well as an indomitable spirit.   Although Karate enables a person to concentrate tremendous strength into a strike with the hand or foot, that is not the ultimate aim.  The ultimate goal is not to become stronger against physical enemies but to develop positive character traits, overcome limitations, and become a better person.  

Traditional Karate-Do instructors and students develop qualities centered on what is sometimes referred to as the Martial Morality.    Although I will be listing them in order they are al of equal importance: Humility, Respect, Righteousness, Trust, Loyalty, Will, Endurance, Perseverance, Patience, and Courage.  These are facets of human character necessary for the development of humankind and contribute to the health of society as a whole. This is what is meant by Karate-Do. This is what I practice. This is what I teach students.  The primary concern is with contributing to the positive development of the human condition through the art of Goju-Ryu Karate-Do. All people, regardless of race, age or gender benefit from training.