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Journal of Martial Arts Anthropology

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Abstract - The Essence of Karate-do: Sankido Example

Aim. From the perspective of the “humanistic theory of martial arts” the author explains a deeper sense of karate-do. He answers five questions and presents his own school and style of karate.
Method. It is an expert judgement, the effect of long-term participatory observation.
Results. The essence of karate is removed from the notion of winners and losers, throphies and prizes because the real opponent of a student is the self. This was the main purpose of karate even if this psychological target was misunderstood all over the world for different purposes.
Conclusions. 1) Karate is an extreme form of physical conditioning that can be practised by men, women and children. It develops aerobic fitness, strength and maintains flexibility through a progressive training method. Training that must be done only under the supervision of certificated masters or instructors. 2) Karate is also one of the most efficient forms of self-defence which is very important in today’s society. Through learning basic kicks, punches and blocks, students learn specific combinations of techniques that are applied in particular situations. Students are also taught to develop an inner awareness for avoiding potential threatening situations. 3) The study of karate develops both discipline and concentration, skills that can be used by children, students, artists and men or women in all walks of life.