Benefits of Training in Martial Arts

Isshin Ryu Karate is one of the best forms of self-defense a person can find. The blocks, kicks and punches are compact, with the limbs in tight to the body. Isshin Ryu generates power through a whipping motion on the attack, while the compact form aids rapid defense. The forms and basics are all designed for close-quarter combat. At first glance, one might think that Isshin Ryu is a stand-up fighting system, however, within many of the techniques there are wrist locks, arm bars and take downs that all of the students are taught through Kata application. Through the use of drills, basic and Kata techniques are performed against one another so that the students get a "hands on" approach to each technique. Being able to apply the Kata technique in a practical classroom environment helps the student better understand each movement and if needed, adapt or adjust accordingly.

Self-Discipline is developed through the constant repetition of Basic technique and Kata performed alone and against live targets. Through constant repetition, a person can reach a state of self-awareness the same way a person, through meditation, can reach a state of consciousness. A person who is pushed to his or her limits will know self-discipline because they are put into situations that demand only the best from each individual. Practice and repetition is the only path to perfection of a form or technique.

Respect is brought about by interacting on a daily basis with others and adhering to the strict rules of the dojo. Within each Dojo, there are many reminders of respect and honor, like bowing in before and after each class, or the respect paid to those Sensei that have come before us and to those that someday will go on ahead. When we bow on and off the mat, this signifies that we respect the very dojo we are in and the lessons learned on the floor. When we bow to one another, it is about respect for one another and gratitude for what we are about to or have learned from that person. It is always of utmost importance to show respect and with that respect comes honor.

Through the constant practice of karate and being under the direct supervision of a Sensei, one learns focus through repetition. Through constant supervision and training, a student will come to realize that the more one focuses on the technique of the martial arts, the more one is able to focus on all other aspects of life. Karate is very intricate and demands focus and attention if one intends to master the skills inherent in the art. Karate is something that transcends barriers and its focus and discipline carries over into every other aspect of one’s life.

The more proficient one becomes in Isshin Ryu Karate, the more confident one becomes. This can only be achieved by the constant practice of Isshin Ryu and by training with and against others. It is only through this practice that you will really know if a technique works or not and in turn gain confidence in your abilities. This confidence translates over to your personal life as well. I see it with children’s grades as well as the way they carry themselves outside the dojo. If you are in control and have confidence in yourself on the Dojo floor, you will carry that confidence with you everywhere and it will show in all that you do.

This goes hand in hand with confidence. You must believe in yourself in order to accomplish anything in life and this is one of the very first things that is taught at the dojo. By being brought up in the front of the class and being asked to perform your kata or basics in front of the class in itself is humbling, to say the least. Having to learn from your mistakes in front of others is very difficult yet it teaches you that through this you can overcome any obstacle in life. If we can learn that the mistakes we make in life today, how much better will we handle those of tomorrow or better yet, how many more will we avoid altogether? We also teach that how a student handles adversity today will define who they are as a person, tomorrow.