WHAT IS KYOKUSHIN

Karate is both an art and philosophy, because each person has a  diffrent personality, this reflect in their interpretation. Therefore, Karate masters founded their own school, teaching their style or ryu.
Kyokushin is the name given to our ryu, which was originated by the master, Masutatsu Oyama. Kyoku means utimate, shin truth or reality.
The symbol of Kyokushin is the Kanku. This is derived from the Kanku Kata, sky-gazing form, in which the hands raised to scan the sky, thus forming the symbol with the joining fingers and thumbs.
The point of the Kanku are represented by the fingers and imply the ultimate or peaks. The thick sections are represented from the wrists and imply power. The center implies infinity and depth. The whole   Kanku is enclosed by a circle, implying continuity and circular movement.

KYOKUSHIN KARATE DOJO KUN

1. We will train our hearts and bodies for a firm, unshaken spirit.

2. We will pursue the true meaning of the Martial Way, so that in time our senses may be alert.

3. With true vigor, we will seek to cultivate a sprit of self denial.

4. We will observe the rules of courtesy, respect our superiors and refrain from violence.

5. We will follow our religious principles, and never forget the true virtue of humility.

6. We will look upward to wisdom and strength not seeking other desires.

7. All our lives, through the discipline of karate, we will seek to fulfill the true meaning of the Kyokushin Way.

ETIQUETTE AND PROCEDURE

Having color belts is a good incentive for students and a good way of measuring progress.  In Kyokushinkai, we have a system of colored belts from white to black which are as follows -

Statutory Time Limit between Examination:

10th Kyu to 3rd Kyu : Grading may be taken at three monthly i ntervals.

3rd Kyu to 1st Kyu : Grading may be taken at six monthly intervals.

1st Kyu to Shodan : A candidate must hold the grade of 1st Kyu for  one full year before applying for Shodan.

Shodan to Nidan : Minimum of Two years.

Nidan to Sandan : Minimum of Three years.

Sanadan to Yondan : On recommendation of Shihan.

All national Grading are subject to the recommendation of the students Dojo Instructor.

TITLES:

1st and 2nd Dans          - Sempai (Senior)

3rd, 4th and 5th Dans   - Sensei(Teacher) 

6th and 7th Dans           - Shihan (Master)

Master of the house or senior man in the style - Kancho (Master).     

1. The place in which one trains karate is called a "dojo"

2. When training, one normally uses the Japanese terms, which are internationally known and therefore understood by nearly  everyone practicing karate through the world.

3. Discipline within a well-run dojo is always very strict and the instructor is always addressed by his title; this helps maintain the proper relationship between a teacher and his students, which is always very formal.

4. Upon entering or leaving a dojo one always bows and gives an Osu.The bow is a sign of respect for the training hall, which in Japan is regarded as a place with spiritual significance.

5. A lesson always begins with the students lining up in grade order and facing the instructor.  The instructor gives the following commands

6. At the end of the lesson, the students lining up in grade order  and facing the instructor.  The instructor gives the following commands

THE PROGRESSION OF LEARNING

1. Position            - Stance

2. Balance             - Control of position

3. Co-ordination - Control of balance and position in technique

4. Form                  - Performing above correctly

5. Speed                - Increase time rate of performance without loss of form 

6. Power                 - Strengthening the technique

7. Refelex              - The technique becomes a natural movement

It is essential that the progression is not rushed, but developed at each stage.