Martin Poetz, 6. DAN Shotokan, Karatelehrer in Goa/Indien: Was ist Karate, Nutzen und Philosophie

What is Karate?

Karate means "empty hand", and Karate-do translates to "the way of Karate". Shotokan Karate is a weaponless martial art that is founded on the basic techniques of punching, striking, kicking and blocking, yet there is a deeper aspect to serious Karate training which deals with character development. Shotokan Karate is a way for an individual to realize greater potential and expand the limits of that individual's physical and mental capabilities. Karate in an excellent, time-proven method of personal development. Shotokan Karate is a traditional Japanese Martial Art founded by Master Gichin Funakoshi. Shotokan Karate remains firmly rooted in a strong martial arts tradition, emphasizing lifetime training for a healthy mind and body, rather than strictly as a sport.

Benefits of Karate

Everyone benefits from Karate training. Even if you feel you are overweight, uncoordinated, inflexible, or lacking self confidence or self discipline, you may have the most to gain by training. Results should not be expected overnight, but if you train on a regular basis and stay with it, you will begin to see improvement. Nothing of real value is ever obtained with ease.

1. Build self-esteem
2. Enhance flexibility
3. Improve coordination & balance
4. Maximize cardio-respiratory fitness
5. Promote discipline
6. Learn self-defense

Philosophy

Training in karate teaches us not only self-defense but, to respect others as well as ourselves. We train our body to be strong, and our mind and spirit to be patient, in order to become the best human beings we can be. Karate is a spiritual endeavor, a way to develop a person as an individual. Everything we learn in the dojo, or training hall, should be applied to everyday life. Karate training is not always easy. Often times it can be very difficult and demanding. This is also true of life. If we can overcome obstacles in our training, it enables us to have strong character to do the same in our everyday lives.

The very essence of karate, the main purpose of training - is all about improving ourselves. We must always work hard at this. When we take responsibility to become persons of good character and integrity, we will be doing our part to make the world a better place, which in turn can help to bring peace to the world. It is our goal, and the goal of the International Shotokan Karate Federation, to teach not only karate techniques, but moreover, to do our best to guide our members in the understanding of what it means to be a true martial artist. A true martial artist constantly strives to be a good human being.

Martin habe ich in Goa Anfang der 90ger Jahre kennengelernt und dort mit ihm während meiner Reisen trainiert. Seine drei kurzen Texte fassen das Wesen des Shotokan Karate auf beeindruckende Weise kurz und knapp zusammen.

Oss, Martin Sensei!

Lutz