Physical training should be followed by character and discipline building

Shotokan Karate is not only physical power and fighting skill, but it also lays a great stress on the mental training and character building. The values of respect, humility, perseverance and self-control are values which practitioners are encouraged to practice whether within or outside the dojo. These concepts are enforced by the dojo kun (training hall code of ethics) which remind the students that karate is just as much about training the mind as it is the body. This twin emphasis renders Shotokan a holistic discipline, which assists individuals in their endeavor to have balance in their everyday life. Students tend to discover that the discipline and concentration that they learn in their karate training are applied to school, work and personal relationships and that the training is highly rewarding even beyond the physical fitness.

A Style for All Ages and Goals

Due to its orderly training, definite techniques and a solid philosophical core, Shotokan is popular among a whole spectrum of people of various ages and backgrounds. As a discipline, it provides children with a sense of discipline, focus and coordination which can be useful in adulthood, as a physical conditioning, stress reliever and personal growth. Seniors are also able to train Shotokan at their own level using the movements to maintain balance and flexibility and overall health. To the competition enthusiast, Shotokan boasts of an extended history of competitions both nationally and internationally, which provide the student with the possibility to challenge their ability with an environment that is secure and controlled. Meanwhile, other individuals prefer Shotokan just because of self-defense, personal development or because it is a lifelong routine to remain active and interested.

Goju-Ryu Karate: The Hard and Soft.

One of the most unusual branches of karate is goju-Ryu meaning hard-soft, as it incorporates the principle of the harmony of strength and elasticity. Instead of concentrating on the purely linear, powerful, and strong strikes or the one that greatly depends on evasive and circular, Goju-Ryu combines the two into an integrated mechanism. The hard components of the style focus on power, direct assaults, including punches, kicks, and powerful blocks, whereas the soft components focus on flowing defensive moves, circular redirection of attacks, and counter adoptions. This active combination enables the practitioners to be versatile and at the same time precise and fluid with force when needed to be used by application of strength.