Chris Denwood is a karateka, fitness expert, researcher, and the author of “Respecting the Old, Creating the New,” and “Naihanchi (Tekki): The Seed of Shuri Karate Vol. 1.” The latter is easily the most comprehensive book on Naihanchi Shodan fundamentals that I have ever read, and I highly recommend it to anyone who practices Naihanchi kata that can be traced back […]
Martial arts come in a wide array of styles and methodologies, but they are all connected by the human body and laws of nature, so even among wildly different systems, founded centuries and countries apart, there can be found many similar, related, or complimentary methods. While many martial artists prefer to segregate styles and promote the isolationist idea that each […]
As someone who primarily writes about the practical, physical aspects of karate, as well as generally being a cynic and a skeptic, it often surprises people to learn that I am a proponent of meditation and visualization. I have mentioned these topics, before–click here to read about that–but never really delved into them in much detail. Even my Sensei, whom […]
Mental health issues carry with them a great deal of stigma, and they aren’t commonly discussed. Martial artists, in particular, have a tendency to avoid the topic, because martial arts are supposed to instill discipline, focus, and mental clarity. Additionally, martial artists are often seen as “tough” people, and it can sometimes be difficult for others to understand that those […]
The practice and purpose of kata is something that is often debated, and can be a serious point of contention between martial artists. Many people believe that kata are outdated and useless, and should no longer be practiced. Others believe that kata are exercises for fitness, balance, and coordination, but nothing more. There are also those who believe that kata […]
Proper karate training requires physical contact, and as a martial art, that means there are going to be periods of discomfort, moments of pain, and instances of injury. It is important to recognize the differences between discomfort, pain, and injury if you want to train both effectively and safely, specially since you can get compensation with the Babcock Partners LLC […]
Lifetime karateka Nakazato Shugoro (left) and Nakazato Minoru (right) Serious martial artists, who dedicate their lives to developing their skills and knowledge, have a tendency to criticize those who train as a hobby, or just for fun. I will admit that I have actually done this, myself! We are so passionate about our training, and our beliefs about that training, […]
