From Kata To Competition

Discusses the basic stances of karate, describes how to perform karate blocks, punches, and kicks, and suggests stretching exercises for increasing strength and flexibility.

The practice of judo katas has changed over time as a result of perceived purpose. The chapters in this anthology were written by seven authorities in judo history and practice. Their writings clarify the purpose of kata and thus its mode of practice and their place in competition. In 1926, a contest occurred in which thirty-seven of the finest judoka in Japan competed before the Emperor Hirohito. The first chapter by Robert W. Smith details the techniques utilized by each master and also compares their skills with today's judo practitioners. The next two chapters by Dr. Llyr Jones and Biron Ebell deal with the transmutation of judo over the decades. Both authors give ample support that the original guidelines have evolved into competitive sport resulting in a substantial decline in the number of adults practicing judo. Where does kata stand in judo practice today? Dr. Lance Gatling reports on The First Kodokan Judo International Competition (2007). He outlines the background of the competition, the competitors, the motivations for this competition, the historical development of judo katas, and their importance to the correct study of judo. Dr. Llyr Jones' next chapter has two objectives: to explain the purpose of kata in judo, and to critically evaluate the concept of kata championships. To achieve these objectives, Jones offers personal comments, observations from rare Japanese source material, as well as insight into the thinking of world-renowned judo experts. Linda Yiannakis provides two insightful chapters. Her first chapter presents a conceptual framework for examining principles of judo throwing techniques. The principles are classified as primarily structural, operational, or contextual in nature. In her second chapter, she points out that martial artists are acutely aware of the need to develop a sense of timing for the best possible moment to apply techniques in free play or contest. This chapter examines some critical features of patterns and rhythms in a variety of contexts and provides a few basic exercises for the development of awareness and use of rhythm, patterns, and timing in judo. Jones, Savage, and Gatling present an in-depth study into Kodokan Goshin-jutsu-a Kodokan judo exercise formally established in 1956 to teach the principles and techniques of self-defense against unarmed and armed attacks, and to meet modern lifestyle needs. Their chapter reviews the place of Goshin-jutsu among the Kodokan katas, and then summarizes the history its creation. A description of the exercise's structure and technical contents follows, along with an in-depth explanation of its principles and associated teaching and learning challenges. This also includes a review of the most reliable learning texts in Japanese, English and selected other Western languages. Kodokan Goshin-jutsu's performance aspects are considered next. An objective assessment of its practical self-defense effectiveness follows, before finally conclusions are drawn. The short final chapter by Dr. Jones is on Kodokan judo's Nage-no-kata (forms of throwing) and Katame-no-kata (forms of control). Their study helps facilitate the development of free practice (randori) skills. Many look at judo studies as including three dimensions: free-practice, competition, and forms. Kata practice is vital to the other two. If you are involved with judo, this anthology will deepen your purpose and inspiring your practice.

Idealized by sensei Vinicio Antony, all Jutsu material - The Hidden Art in Karate aims to be a new vehicle for sharing the knowledge he has acquired throughout his long career as an athlete and master of Karate. "My intention is that this work can reach a greater number of people who (like me!) Have chosen the way to guide other paths.

Are you ready to learn karate, but don't know where to begin? Are you intimidated by the unfamiliar terms of the powerful punches? With Karate Basics you'll become an expert in this martial art in no time! With Karate Basics you'll learn: The origins of karate—philosophy, history, and different branches of the martial art What really happens in a karate class—invaluable tips on choosing the right school, getting ready for your first class, and basic training methods The essential elements of the style—stances, blocks, thrusts and strikes, punches, and kicks How to complement your karate training with sparring drills and kata Effective ways to successfully progress in karate—creating a training program, testing for belt promotion, and an overview of competitions and tournaments Resources that can help you further develop your knowledge of and training in karate Whether you're considering taking up this martial art, or you've already started, Karate Basics offers an easy, yet comprehensive introduction to everything you need to know to feel confident and be successful in your practice.

Mixed martial arts (MMA)—unarmed fighting games permitting techniques derived from a variety of martial arts and combat sports— has exploded from the fringes of sport into a worldwide phenomenon, a sport as controversial as it is compelling. This is the first book to pay MMA the serious philosophical attention it deserves. With contributions from leading international scholars of the philosophy of sport and martial arts, the book explores topics such as whether MMA qualifies as a martial art, the differences between MMA and the traditional martial arts, the aesthetic dimensions of MMA, the limits of consent and choice in MMA and whether MMA can promote moral virtues. It also explores cutting-edge practical and ethical topics, including the role of gender in MMA, and the question of whether trans athletes should be allowed to compete in the women’s divisions. The contributors to this anthology take down, ground and pound, and submit many essential questions about this fascinating recent development in the culture of sport and spectacle. This is important reading for anybody with an interest in combat sports, martial arts, or the philosophy, sociology, culture or history of sport.

Since the 1950s, karate has exploded in popularity the world over. Initially developed for self-defence, karate is now practised for many other reasons - fitness, discipline and general wellbeing amongst them. This book is for people who have mastered the basics, but want to develop and improve their skills and techniques so that they can progress to a higher level. There is a generally accepted progression of learning - stance, balance, co-ordination, form, speed, power and reflex. This book looks at these aspects and shows the practitioner how to hone their skills and make their training and sparring more effective. There is also a section on competition karate.

In recent years, there has been an increase in interest in mental health disorders as a result of mediatic coverage of Olympic athletes’ mental health struggles, and also due to the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns. These phenomena helped to further exacerbate a problem already extensively present in sport and society. Therefore, applying a psychophysiological approach to physical activity, exercise, and sports research has become very popular. Indeed, mental fatigue and mental disorders are not only psychological in origin, but also require an explanation from a psychophysiological perspective due to the effective interconnection between the psychological and physiological dimensions. Psychological variables can also influence performance and the psychophysiological system has a strong effect on the control of physical capacities. Moreover, pacing behaviour, decision-making, self-regulation, and effort perception can also explain the role of the brain in physical activity and exercise management. Thus, the aim of this Research Topic is to share the impact of a psychophysiological approach in physical activity, exercise and sports.

The Essential Karate Book is an illustrated, informative guide to the techniques, philosophy and practice of karate With 20 chapters covering practically every aspect of karate, this in-depth reference will assist students and instructors as they plot their course through karate instruction, benefiting those at all levels. The Essential Karate Book contains 200 diagrams mapping out moves, 300 color photographs, and downloadable video, making it a comprehensive general karate reference for Western audiences. Readers of this karate guide will learn about: The origins and history of karate Required behavior, clothing and etiquette, as well as the fundamentals of karate and the different styles that share them Stances, blocks, strikes and kicks Preparing your body through warm ups, stretching, and conditioning through karate-specific exercises Kata grading and fighting (kumite) techniques and competition rules Martial arts weapons (kobudo), and MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) applications The Essential Karate Book is a must-have for any martial arts enthusiast, from beginners to black belts!