Seisan Kata: The Mystery of 13

Seisan Kata: The Mystery of 13

Seisan (also Seishan or Sesan) is one of the most widely practiced forms in traditional Okinawan karate. Prior to 1908, according to one researcher, every major style taught it.  Its origins are steeped in both history and legend. Historians have found no evidence...
Our Martial Ties

Our Martial Ties

1968: I purchased my first unbleached cotton off-white karate gi. It was typical for the uniforms to have ¾ length sleeves and ¾ length drawstring pants for the grand cost of $12. The sensei needed to see our wrists and forearms, ankles and feet. I never gave much...
The Black Belt: Making of a Living Blade

The Black Belt: Making of a Living Blade

A Japanese swordsmith will tell you that no two crafted blades are the same. Likewise, no two karate black belts ever turn out with identical skills. Look at your family, if you are a sibling, or have siblings of your own, are they identical? Parents can birth wildly...
SUNSU: The King of Isshinryu Kata

SUNSU: The King of Isshinryu Kata

During the first quarter century of my isshinryu training, I thought I was on target with my kata understanding. I was a career professional teacher. If I wasn’t hitting the bull’s eye, it didn’t bode well for my students. With hindsight, after fifty-six...
Slow & Steady Intensity

Slow & Steady Intensity

I’ve witnessed a lot of changes since my formal introduction to Okinawan karate in 1968. 2024 marks my 56th year in the arts—53 as a professional teacher. Even more dramatic, have been the changes in the world since then. Life has become frenetic for most. The trend...