T here is a lot of material available to those who seek to better understand American Kenpo Karate. There are new self-defense techniques, different applications of the present material or definitions, books, videos and online sites devoted to Kenpo terminology, concepts and theories. However, no one has written on what defines American Kenpo Karate.
Kenpo’s Key Principles and Rules Read More »
In my experience training, studying, and teaching Okinawan Goju-ryu karate, I’ve encountered a significant number of students and teachers who have shared many of my same concerns over the teaching model(s) often used to present the content of this tradition. It is quite common that the curriculum of karate, regardless of specific style, is taught
Introduction to Principle-Driven Skills Training Read More »
by Garry Parker Editor’s Note – Training in the martial arts is a very personal thing. Sure, most people begin in a group class, following along. But as the years pass and the “Martial Way” becomes part of us, we each find a path forward on our own time. One of the best ways to train
By Garry Parker The power to succeed, fail, grow and change is within you. We all have it within us. Extraordinary acts are accomplished every day by ordinary people just like you and me. What sets apart the ordinary from the extraordinary? Is our DNA code different? Are we genetically determined to be above average? What
The Three Minds of Karate Read More »
By Garry Parker One Friday evening after training, Takamiyagi Sensei called me to the side; “Pa-ka, ashita… hima aru? (Do you have free time tomorrow?)” Sure, I told him, excited that I may get extra training on Saturday. “Jo-to,” he replied. Sensei then proceeded to tell me that a few people were meeting in Koza
Not Your Black Belt Read More »
Karate sensei Garry Parker was born in Columbus, Georgia, and began training in Kodokan Judo in high school. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, and was stationed at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa. Shortly after arrival in Okinawa, Parker enrolled in the Hamagawa Dojo, where he learned under the watchful eye of
Living and Training Karate in Okinawa Read More »
From the beginning of time, mankind has had to invent and progressively adapt methods of protection to survive. To ensure the survival of our species against wild animals, and to ensure survival of family bloodlines against ruthless thieves and marauders, we as humans have had to fight to survive. Centuries ago, we discovered that the
My Journey in Okinawan Karate-Do Read More »
I’ve always been fascinated with martial arts and the many journeys one can find and take along its paths to self-discovery. Among my favorite books are those where the author shares his experience in finding a teacher, becoming accepted as a student, and training in the traditional arts of a culture. Others are those containing
Reflections on New Karate Memoir, Chanpuru Read More »
