Sparring In Early Karate
Sparring in early karate in Okinawa, known as “Te” or “Tode,”** was quite different from modern karate sparring. Here’s an overview of what it looked like: Characteristics of Early Okinawan Sparring: 1. No Formalized Sparring Rules: – Early karate did not have structured sparring formats like modern kumite. Instead, practice was heavily focused on kata […]
The Legendary Training Regime of Mas Oyama in the Mountains
Introduction Mas Oyama, the founder of Kyokushin Karate, is renowned not only for his martial arts prowess but also for his unique and rigorous training methods. His infamous training sessions in the mountains exemplify the relentless pursuit of perfection, discipline, and self-discovery that he embodied as a martial artist. This essay will explore Oyama’s training […]
The Concept of “Do” in Martial Arts: A Pathway to Personal Growth and Mastery
Martial arts, across cultures and disciplines, offer more than just techniques for self-defence or physical combat. They serve as a way to cultivate discipline, focus, and personal growth. A central concept that appears in many martial arts traditions is the term “Do” (道), which translates to “the way” or “the path.” This concept encapsulates not […]
En no Gyoja
En no Gyoja (Japanese: 役の行者), also known as En no Gyōja or En no Gyoja, is a legendary figure in Japanese history and folklore, considered the founder of the Shugendo tradition. Shugendo is a syncretic religious and spiritual practice that blends elements of Japanese animism, Taoism, Esoteric Buddhism, and Shintoism. En no Gyoja’s life and […]
Shugendo: The Spiritual Path of Asceticism in Japan
Shugendo, often dubbed the “way of testing and training,” represents a unique religious practice in Japan, characterized by the amalgamation of indigenous beliefs, Buddhism, and Shintoism. It remains a living tradition steeped in ascetic practices, reverence for nature, and a quest for spiritual enlightenment through rigorous training. This essay aims to offer a comprehensive understanding […]
Ronin Samurai
Introduction The term “ronin” evokes images of solitary swordsmen, wandering the lands of Japan during the feudal era, embodying a complex blend of honor, desperation, and freedom. Historically, ronin were masterless samurai, warriors who had lost their lords due to death, disgrace, or political upheaval and who navigated a shifting social landscape. This essay will […]
The History of Japanese Ju Jitsu
Introduction Jujitsu, a traditional Japanese martial art, is a complex system of unarmed combat techniques that focuses on using an opponent’s energy and movements against themselves. It is known for its effectiveness in self-defense, emphasizing joint locks, throws, and grappling. The rich history of jujitsu reflects the wider social, cultural, and political developments in Japan […]
The Yakuza Involvement in Japanese Combat Sports
The Yakuza, organised crime syndicates in Japan, have historically had a complex and often controversial involvement in various aspects of Japanese society, including combat sports like boxing, professional wrestling, and mixed martial arts (MMA), particularly Pride FC. While not universally true for all organisations or events, their involvement can be characterised by several key points: […]
Boxing in the UK Prior to the Queensbury Rules
## Introduction Boxing, often heralded as “the sweet science,” has its roots deeply embedded in human history. The traditional form of boxing, known for its strategic elements and cultural significance, has evolved significantly from its early days. In the UK, the sport underwent a series of transformations long before the introduction of the Marquess of […]
The Art of Shuai Jiao: China’s Ancient Wrestling Tradition
Introduction Shuai Jiao, the ancient Chinese martial art of wrestling, embodies a rich history marked by its intricate techniques, deep cultural significance, and martial efficiency. Rooted in China’s millennia-old martial arts heritage, Shuai Jiao has evolved from a battlefield necessity to a modern sport while preserving essential aspects of its traditional roots. This essay aims […]