Gimu - literally means obligation. Through daily practice of Karate-do, one must understand a sense of Gimu. Some people say that it is a debt to be repaid to your dojo, ryuha, etc. Showing a sense gimu with your heart enhances your development as a true Karateka.

Giri - Giri or Loyalty also plays a vital role in a students development. One must always return to his teacher for refinement in technique and character, even after many years of practice.

Koroshi no mei - This is important for all martial artists. It directly translates to mean killing or death stare. This is the proper attitude when practicing Karate-do. If you have weak eye, then you will have weak spirit, weak mind, and weak body. Chojun Miyagi Sensei once said, "The eyes are the window to the heart!

Hito Tsuki - Similar idea to Ikken Hisatsu, hito tsuki - means one punch. You must always be aware that in a real situation you might just have one chance to react correctly! This works for both defense and offense! Of course, in terms of offense, our goal is to stop an enemy with one killing blow!

Do Kan Ki Tai - Baby face, Hard body. Sounds like Goju. All this means is hard inside, soft outside. When you go into battle, you must look calm and relaxed, and at the same time your body must be hard and strong.

Gokui waza - This represents a certain technique that best fits a given situation. All battles have a different outcome, and are ended with different techniques. To perform Gokui waza, one must have a clear mind, absence of conscious thought.

Nangi go gokui - There are no secrets to be told! They are to be found in the kata through sweat and perseverance in the Dojo. Remember the maxim... Oku myo zai hakku ren san tan!

Zanshin - Awareness, one must be aware of their surroundings, especially in a fighting environment. When practicing kata, at the end come up slow to yame position. Be aware of what just took place, and what could of happened.

Shu Ha Ri - Shu means to listen and obey your teacher, Ha means try to be better than your teacher, and Ri completes the circle as it means that the student can be better than the teacher if the student faithfully follow the first two philosophies.

Karate dojo no soji - Cleaning the dojo is very important. You should always show respect for your Dojo by cleaning it. Even if it is clean, clean it again. It is very good for one's character.

All of Karate-do's Philosophies can be used in all aspects of your life. Your job, family life, etc... And it is very important that these are always practiced in the dojo.

For more information email Brock Vickerson