Who are Karate Tōushi?
Why “Tōushi” ?
Karate Tōushi embodies fighting spirit, an essential aspect in the development of a karate practitioner's (karateka) mind-set and skill.
It encompasses mental strength, determination, perseverance, and resilience, and plays a crucial role in the practice and application of karate as a martial art and a way of life.
Understanding the importance of fighting spirit in karate requires an exploration of its impact on a karateka's mind-set, personal growth, and overall effectiveness in training and combat.
First and foremost, fighting spirit is essential in karate because it cultivates mental strength and resilience. In the practice of karate, practitioners are constantly challenged to push past their physical and mental limitations.
Developing a strong fighting spirit allows karateka to face these challenges with courage and determination, enabling them to overcome obstacles, both in training and in real-life situations. Whether it is enduring intense physical conditioning, persevering through rigorous kata practice, or facing an opponent in combat, the mental fortitude fostered by fighting spirit empowers practitioners to confront adversity and emerge stronger.
Moreover, fighting spirit in karate is paramount for personal growth and self-improvement. Karate is not merely about physical techniques; it is also a path toward self-discovery and self-discipline. The development of a strong fighting spirit instils a sense of discipline, focus, and mental clarity, fostering a deeper understanding of oneself and the ability to channel one's energy toward positive growth. Through the continuous effort to refine techniques, build endurance, and embrace challenges with determination, practitioners develop a strong sense of self-discipline, perseverance, and a commitment to constant improvement.
Additionally, the significance of fighting spirit in karate extends to its impact on the effectiveness of a practitioner's technique and combat ability. In the context of combat, having a strong fighting spirit is often the determining factor between success and defeat. Beyond physical prowess, the mental resolve and indomitable willpower that come with a strong fighting spirit play a pivotal role in battles of endurance and determination.
It is often said that the outcome of a confrontation can be influenced by the mind-set and spirit (seishin) of the fighters involved. A karateka with a resolute fighting spirit is better equipped to face high-pressure situations, remain focused under duress, and seize opportunities to prevail in combat.
Furthermore, the embodiment of fighting spirit in karate serves as a vehicle for honing qualities such as humility, respect, and integrity. The pursuit of martial excellence is intertwined with the cultivation of character, and a strong fighting spirit is inseparable from the development of virtues that are integral to the martial arts. Through the challenges and triumphs experienced in the pursuit of karate mastery, practitioners internalise the values of humility in victory, resilience in defeat, and respect for both opponents and oneself.
The unyielding resolve and determination fostered by fighting spirit are anchored in a foundation of integrity, promoting a deep sense of honour and moral conduct in all aspects of practice and life.
In conclusion, fighting spirit is of paramount importance in karate, shaping the mind-set, character, and effectiveness of practitioners in the pursuit of martial excellence and personal growth. It embodies the unwavering determination, resilience, and indomitable willpower that are indispensable to success in training and combat. The significance of fighting spirit extends beyond physical technique, enriching the practitioner's character with virtues such as discipline, respect, and integrity.
Ultimately, the cultivation of fighting spirit in karate not only fosters martial prowess but also instils a resilient and determined spirit that transcends the confines of the dojo, empowering individuals to confront life's challenges with courage and unwavering resolve.
Our Mission
Karate is for everyone!
Our mission is to teach karate to anyone willing and wanting to learn from us. Regardless of age, ability or previous experience. One is never too old to start! Or to learn more, indeed.
We want to help everyone to do the best they can, in a safe, friendly and helpful environment.
We do demand that everyone in the dojo behave in a respectful and disciplined manner. Students and teachers alike. Anyone training with us are doing so on their own terms and abilities.
In Karate Tōushi we all share a strong enthusiasm and passion for karate. The enthusiasm to learn more and evolve as karate practitioners, having the passion to try and further the martial art itself.
We tend not to talk about “karate tenets” and “dojo kun” in terms of “Here are five rules you must learn to proclaim”. Simply because that is not good learning. Anyone can revise and remember a few sentences. We strive for a deeper understanding of what we do and why. This in order to let karate continue its journey and evolution, to carry on being a modern martial art, accessible for everyone. In order to do so, one must understand the roots and origin of karate in general and Shotokan karate in particular. That curiosity to learn the roots comes with time. Only by knowing your past can you move forward into the future.
The Tōushi foundation is built on the pillars of previous martial arts practitioners and their ideas of how to evolve the art. For that we are very grateful.
To become good at anything in life requires perseverance and time. Shotokan karate is no different there. You get better by training regularly and often. And the more you learn, the more you realise there is to learn ahead of you!
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Our story
Each of the instructors associated with Karate Tōushi has had a life long relationship with karate. Learning karate has been a positive experience for us all that we feel benefits our mental health, confidence and helps keep us physically healthy.
We consider learning karate is a life long process that doesn't finish when you get your black belt and are constantly looking to expand our knowledge and skills.
As individual instructors, we have worked together for many years supporting each other in our clubs and interests. We have always looked to expand our knowledge through seminars and working together in training.
One thing that has always bound us together is our common belief that karate is a system designed to defend yourself from harm and that we want to teach this in a practical way to our students. It should not be an 'extra' that's added onto sports karate, but fundamental to our training.
As a result, we formed Karate Tōushi - an association that believes in training all the broad aspects of karate to a high standard - all with a view to better equip students to defend themselves should they ever need to.