Key Martial Arts Philosophies, Concepts, etc.

This section examines some of the key philosophies & concepts underlying traditional martial arts such as Karate, Taekwondo and Kung Fu.

Key Martial Arts Philosophies & Concepts

• Budo - Budo is the Japanese term for Japanese martial arts and means the "Martial Way".
• Bushido - The Japanese philosophy known as "The Way of the Warrior" which combined elements such as honor, duty and self-sacrifice.
• Fa Jin - Chinese for "Release Energy".
• Hara - Hara is the centre of the soul or the repository of life force.
• Ki - Life Force" in Japanese martial arts. Qi or Chi is the equivalent in Chinese martial arts.
• Meditation - This section focuses on the uses and objectives of meditation in martial arts training.
• Mushin - “No Mind” concept used in Karate. This is a state where one can act and react without hesitation.
• Qi or Chi - "Life Force" in Chinese martial arts. Ki is the Japanese equivalent.
• Qigong or Chigung - Ways to practice improving your Qi.
• Zanshin - A term used in Japanese martial arts that means alertness/readiness and a higher state of awareness.
• Zen - Many Japanese martial arts have been influenced by the traditions of Zen Buddhism.

Key Karate Philosophies & Concepts

• Isshin-Ryu Code
• Isshin-Ryu Creed
• Kyokushin Karate - Eleven Mottoes - These are the eleven key mottoes of Mas Oyama and Kyokushin Karate.
• 20 Principles of Karate - Guiding principles for Shotokan Karate.

Key Taekwondo Philosophies & Concepts

• Tenets of Taekwondo - Taekwondo (ITF) - The five basic tenets that serve as a guide for all students in the International Taekwondo Federation (ITF).