Shotokan Karate of Ocala Florida Martial Arts & Self Defense Schools

Shotokan is scientifically developed to be mechanically and properly suited to the human body. This makes it unique amongst most other styles of martial arts. Shotokan is considered the first, and by far the most widely participated Japanese karate system in the world. It is known as a hard style that emphasizes linear techniques. While Shotokan practitioners utilize fewer techniques than most other systems we believe it is better to master a few techniques than to have a marginal knowledge of many techniques. In developing the Shotokan system Funakoshi taught 15 different Kata from the Okinawa Shorinryu and Shorein Systems. Some styles of Shotokan now teach as many as 50 Kata. Along with Kata training, students practice line and sparring drills. Students develop power in their technique by using hip rotation in nearly all their kicks, punches, and blocks. Development of proper techniques such as hand eye coordination and consistent training for muscle memory, through a vast array of training methods, produces self discipline, coordination, quicker reflexes, reduced stress, and overall well being.

Karate Practice:

Karate practice is divided into three categories:
1. Kihon (basic blocks, punches, kicks, and stances)
2. Kata (pre-arranged forms simulating combat situations)
3. Kumite (sparring)

In each category the beginner is given instruction at the most basic level until the techniques become spontaneous to him.
As the student progresses technically, he progresses physically and his practice demands greater stamina. At this stage he involves himself with the more intricate and difficult katas and more dynamic forms of Kumite.
As the student approaches black belt level, technique, stamina, speed and coordination become natural to him as a result of strong practice and consistent training. It is at this stage that the serious student discovers that he has only just begun his study of karate. The object of true karate practice is the perfection of oneself through the perfection of the art.

Karate as self-defense:

Karate as self-defense is one of the more dynamic aspects of all martial arts. The karate student is able to coordinate his mind and body to near perfection, thereby allowing him to unleash tremendous physical power at will. Therefore, it is not the possession of great physical strength that makes a strong karate practitioner; rather it is the ability to coordinate mind over body. Upon developing this ability, even the smallest person finds that he has within himself the power to deliver a devastating blow to any would be attacker.

Values of Karate:

The values of karate to modern man are numerous. In our everyday lives we often forget the value of exercise to both our physical and mental health. The practice of karate tones the body, develops coordination, quickens reflexes, and builds stamina. The serious practice of karate develops composure, a clearer thought process, deeper insight into one’s mental capabilities, and more self-confidence. In this light, karate is not an end, but a means to an end. It is an activity in which advancing age is not a hindrance. Rather, karate encourages proficiency in the keen coordination of mind and body.

Kata:

Kata is a pre-arranged, and rehearsed, series of blocks, punches, and kicks against single and multiple opponents. A much higher quality thought process with centuries of experience and understanding, Kata includes many varieties of fighting situations and applications. These forms have been handed down through many generations of traditional Shotokan Karateka.
Kata comprises the heart of Shotokan training. It is packed full of self-defense, fighting applications, and multiple variations of Shotokan techniques.
It is not a good idea in Karate or in life, to want more before we fully understand and appreciate what we have. Fully understanding a kata teaches us this lesson. Mastery of just one Kata is more important than just memorizing the moves of several kata.