ABOUT KARATE
Karate is a martial art refined by the Japanese in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. It is based on much older fighting systems that originated in the Shaolin (Sil Lum) temple in china and then migrated throughout Korea, Oknawa, and finally into Japan.
Many people mistakenly believe that karate is thousands of years old. In truth, formal japanese karate systems are less than 100 years old. However, the techniques that it is based upon can be traced back almost 2000 years.
Japanese/Okinawan systems of karate are often characterized by strong stances with powerful blocks and strikes. In these karate systems it is often considered desirable to be able to dispatch an adversary with a single blow. Karate power is generated from the hips and legs. By using proper focus and technique it is possible for a small person to generate an amazing amount of force. This characteristic makes it attractive to women. Though technique a physically smaller person can learn to defend themselves on the street.
Shudokan karate is a sister style of the popular Shotokan ystem. Shotokan was the first japanese karate system and was developed by Gichen Funikoshi.
Shudokan was conceived and refined by Sensei Kanken Toyama who learned his karate from many of the same okinawan masters as Funikoshi. Sensei Toyama refined his karate for many years and merged many of the straight-line power techniques characterized by shotokan, with softer (as in striking with speed and accuracy vs striking anywhere with overwhelming power), circular, and more angular techniques imported from okinawan and Chinese fighting systems. This blend of “Hard/Soft” techniques makes for a sophistocated and effective fighting system.
BENEFITS OF KARATE
Karate training is undertaken for many reasons and each individual will strive for a different level of proficiency. Not everyone is trying to become the next Bruce Lee or Chcuk Norris.
However, karate yields many benefits and most will find some aspect of training that particularly appeals to them.
Karate has many physical advantages. Karate training emphasize stretching and exercises are taught that will greatly increase the body's flexibility. Strength training is also included to improve muscle tone and increase muscle mass. Proper karate training stresses the cardiovascular system. This stress improves circulation and increases staminia. Additionally, reflexes are honed to a razor edge and the exercises are often helpful in weight control and loss.
As extensive as the physical benefits may be, they are vastly outweighed by the spirtual advantages. Karate promotes a true self confidence, and creates a feeling of personal worth and well being. Karate teaches to handle aggression in a positive way. The goal of karate is to aid a person in the living of his everyday life.
Karate has a side effect that makes it especially useful in todays aggressive society. The self-defense taught in karate is a practical self-defense. It teaches tolerance and non-aggression. To walk away from confrontation and to fight only when there is no alternative. But, if an altercation is inevitable, it teaches the skills to survive.
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Sensei William (Bill) E. Seyler started studying the martial arts at the age of twelve. His first style was in the Shito-Ryu system of karate. Eventually he obtained a ichi-kyu in this style.
Over time and his travels while in the U.S. Air Force he had the opportunity to gain knowledge and rank in several other styles of Asian martial arts. He currently holds a Nidan in both Shudokan and Shorin-Ryu, and a gold sash in Lau-Wing-Pai Kung Fu. He also has trained and demonstrated proficiency in many of the weapons unique to karate and Kung-Fu.
Sensei Seyler has been continually teaching martial arts since 1977 both in the United States and overseas.
EQUIPMENT REQUIRED
There are a several items that are compulsory to attend this class:
1. Loose fitting and rugged clothing, free from snaps and zippers.
2. Cup/Athletic supporter for males
3. Mouth guard.
4. Positive Mental Attitude
OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT
Besides the mandatory items, there are many optional items that will enhance your training. Several of these items are available through catalogs or can sometimes be ordered for you at a reduced cost. These items are:
1. Karate Gi (White). This is MANDATORY for rank testing. White is the only colored authorized for white - purple belts. Brown belts may wear “Salt & Pepper” gi. These are white gi with either a black bottom or top. Black belts have choice of white, black, or Salt and Pepper. Gi is MANDATORY for rank testing.
2. Foam type hand/foot Pads and Headgear. These items are MANDATORY for rank testing.
3. Weapons (Bo, Sai, Katana, Nunchaku, Tonfa). Required above green belt.
A WORD ABOUT TUITION
The cost of shudokan instruction is reasonable and we strive to keep it that way. We feel that everyone should have the opportunity to learn the arts, regardless of financial status. It is with this in mind that we set tuition.
Similarly, we expect that everyone will pay when required or make arrangements with the sensei. To “freeload” is disrespectful to your sensei and the other paying members of the class. If you are having difficulties with the tuition, contact Sensei Seyler so that arrangements can be made without impeding your training.
TRADITIONS
Shudokan is a classical martial art and Sensei Seyler is a classical martial arts instructor. You will be asked to observe many esoteric traditions. Tolerance is shown to newer students who break tradition. But, learn quickly, as you progress in rank violations of protocol will get you sternly disciplined.
In karate classes you rei to show respect for you art, your instructor, and your fellow students. You should rei to the entire dojo when you arrive or leave and to the highest person on the floor when you step on to train. You will also rei to any training partners, and at the beginning and end of kata and waza.
Mr. Seyler should be addressed as “Sensei” as should any other black belts during the course of the class. Occasionally we may have guest instructors in the class. For this reason it suggested that you get in the habit of using “Sensei Seyler” so that there won’t be any confusion.
A dojo is place of reverence and respect for those who learned before you. You should act like you’re in church when you’re in a dojo. The dojo is no place for “Trash Talk”.
Classmates are as important to you as your Sensei. They are your partners for stretching, self-defense, and sparring. Regardless of your respective ranks, they often know things that you don’t and can help you improve yourself. Always treat classmates with respect. Sempai should be conferred the same respect as your Sensei. They are often used to teach lower ranking students. Treat them as potential Sensei.
WHAT IS TAUGHT
Karate is all about mind/body integration and coordination. The mind is the master and the body needs to learn to respond automatically and reflexively in the correct manner. The Japanese Zen masters coveted training in the martial arts for this reason. Especially since the basic tenet of Zen is mental enlightenment through physical actions.
All students enrolled in this class are in a “Black Belt” program. That is, all techniques that are taught are for the personal development of the student with an eye on eventual promotion to black belt. Promotion to black belt requires knowledge of the traditional techniques and their modern equivalent. In addition it is not simply enough to be able to do any specified technique, a student must know when and why a technique is appropriate.
Dachi-Waza: These postures and techniques teach a sense of balance and power. They are critical as the legs provide a foundation for all other techniques that you will learn. Also, the deep stances employed in shudokan will strengthen your legs and enhance your flexibility for kicking techniques. Old chinese proverb: “You must learn to stand before you can walk.”
Te-Waza: Taught both in the classical and eclectic styles to develop speed power and accuracy. There are many closed fist and open hand techniques available to the martial artist. These techniques include all ways to strike with the different parts of the hand as well as how to grab and perform finger ranking techniques. To master all of the karate hand techniques available might take a lifetime.
Ashi-Waza: Taught both in the classical and eclectic styles with a goal towards developing speed, power, accuracy, and flexibility. Kicking is synonymous with karate training. To kick effectively without becoming vulnerable requires flawless technique and timing. Leg techniques includes not only kicking but using the legs to block an sweep. The added power and reach of well executed kicks make for a much more effective fighter.
Kata: Kata develops a sense of technique, movement, power, concentration, and focus. They are the single most important thing that is taught in karate. All other martial art skills have to be brought to bear to perform a successful kata. A well executed kata will have the following attributes: Form, rhythm, power, intensity, and balance.
Kumite: Teaches how to perform techniques against another living opponent. Types of kumite range from the restrictive ippon kumite to wide open Jiyu kumite.
Modern self-defense: Varied techniques based on a wide variety of psychological and physical skills designed for self defense in todays society. These technques are not only confrontational techniques but you are also taught how to avoid danger and to escape without fighting.
Kobudo: In addition to empty hand techniques, advanced students are trained in the use of weapons. This usually begins at the green belt level. You must have good control of your body to be able to control a weapon without injuring yourself or your classmates. The use of a weapon greatly increases body awareness since you have to control an object in addition to your own body.
RANKS AND REQUIREMENTS
Karate has a well defined and very specific rank structure. Rank does not come easily in a traditional dojo. Shudokan demands high technical and behavioral standards. No one that may bring discredit on the rank they’re trying to achieve, the martial arts, or this shudokan dojo will be promoted. This includes students that train poorly and students who have “an attitude problem”. The dojo is an autocratic society with the sensei at the top. He is the last word in the receipt of rank.
Rank tests are cumulative, the requirements listed below each rank are only minimum and additional criterion may be required for each rank. All rank tests include a written test on history and terminology that is geared to the level to which the student is trying to achieve.
White Belt (10th Kyu): Everyone starts their shudokan training as a white belt. You get this belt by joining the class. A white belt symbolizes purity, like an empty sheet of white paper that has yet to be written on.
Yellow Belt (8th Kyu): Awarded after a successful test. Eligible white belts must demonstrate basic punches, kicks, and blocks. In addition the student must show a grasp of the first two kata. The yellow belt signifies a very basic knowledge in the simplest of karate techniques.
1. KIHON WAZA:
(a) Dachi waza: Como-dachi, Kiba-dachi, Zenkutsu-dachi, Kokutsu-dachi.
(b) Uke-Te: Gedan-barai, Jodan-age-uke, Chudan-uchi-uke, Chudan-soto-uke, Shuto-uke. All performed stepping in zenkutsu-dachi and from a front kiba-dachi.
(c) Ashi-Waza: Mae-geri, Yoko-geri, Ushiro-geri, Mawashi-geri.
(d) Te-Waza: Oi-zuki.
2. KATA: Pinan Shodan and Pinan Nidan.
3. IPPON KUMITE: 5 against punch to the head, 5 against punch to the solar plexus.
4. JIYU KUMITE: 2 - two minute rounds
Orange Belt (6th Kyu): The student must be more proficient at all techniques from yellow belt and must have a good knowledge of the first four kata. The orange belt signifies a rudimentary knowledge of karate’s basic techniques. It is awarded after a successful test demonstrating the above proficiencies.
1. KIHON WAZA
(a) Te-Waza: Gyuku-zuki, Ippon-nukite.
(b) Ashi-Waza: Spinning ushiro-geri, Retreating yoko-geri
2. KATA: Pinan Sandan and Pinan Yondan.
3. IPPON KUMITE: 5 against punch to the head
4. JIYU KUMITE: 2 - Two minute rounds
Green Belt (5th Kyu): This test includes more sparring, self-defense, and theory than the prior tests. The first six kata must be performed with excellent form. The green belt signifies a transition from basic to more advanced techniques. A green belt has completely mastered the simplest basics and can explain the meaning of each move. Achieving your green belt is like graduating from elementary school.
1. KIHON-WAZA:
(a) Te-Waza: Hieto-ushi, Tieto-ushi
(b) Ashi-Waza: Kakae-geri
(c) Uke-Waza: Morote-uke
(d) Dachi-Waza: Sanchin-dachi
2. KATA: Pinan Godan and Sanchin
3. IPPON KUMITE: 10 -- Five against punch to solar plexus, five against punch to the groin
4. JIYU KUMITE: 3 - two minute rounds
Purple Belt (4th Kyu): This rank has completely mastered the basic self-defense techniques along with the first eight kata. Combinations employed should be more complex and powerful. The purple belt also shows a rudimentary knowledge of the more advanced karate techniques.
1. KIHON WAZA:
(a) Te-Waza: Empi-ushi
(b) Ashi-Waza: Namigashi, Mikazuki-geri, Mae-tobe-geri, Yoko-tobe-geri, Kicking combinations.
(c) Uke-Waza: Tieto-uke, and cranesneck block.
(d) Dachi-Waza: Nekoshi-dachi.
2. KATA: Nahachi-ichi and Nahachi-ni.
3. IPPON KUMITE: 5 - against kicks
4. JIYU KUMITE: 3 - 2 minute rounds
Brown Belt (3rd Kyu): One step below black belt the brown belt must demonstrate the first ten kata almost flawlessly. There should be confidence and power in every technique. The brown belt should be proficient at some of the more advanced techniques in the martial arts. He should have an understanding of all their moves and their applications. The brown belt also represents someone who is in training as an instructor. Fine tuning the skills required to pass along the martial arts to others.
1. KIHON-WAZA:
(a) Te-Waza: Tiger Claw, Tiger Mouth, Ippon Ken, Cranes beak strike
(b) Ashi-Waza: Jump spinning techniques, kicking from the ground
2. KATA: Passai and Chinto
3. IPPON KUMITE: 10 -- against Kicks with a wide variety of responses
4. SELF DEFENSE: 5 against a wrist grab (joint manipulations and pain throws)
5. JIYU KUMITE: 3 - three minute rounds
Black Belt (Shodan): The most coveted rank in karate. It represents a mastery of all the basic and many of the advanced techniques, not only on a mechanical level, but also on a spiritual level. Eligible brown belts must be able to perform the first eleven kata flawlessly. They can explain the how, when, and why of all techniques. They are proficient enough to build their own techniques for any situation without hesitation. They have a basic understanding of budokan weapons and can perform at least one weapons kata on a black belt level. The test for black belt is also a test of character, it is long and demanding both physically and spiritually. To complete the test, even without passing, is considered a victory.
1. KIHON-WAZA: Break falls, single and double leg sweeps, scissors take down, leverage throws.
2. KATA: Keichi Kum; Weapon kata of choice.
3. IPPON KUMITE: 10 -- against a variety of attacks (including jumping and spinning techniques).
4. SELF DEFENSE: 5 against a knife attack.
5. KOBUDO: 10 Ippon kumite; Basic Techniques.
6. JIYU KUMITE: 3 - Three minute rounds (one opponent), 2 - Two minute rounds (multiple opponents).
There is a fee for each test. All colored belt test fees are $25.00, refundable if the test is failed. Black belt test fees are $100.00 non-refundable. The testing fee includes the rank certificate and a new colored belt.
The best way to progress in the martial arts is to listen to the instructor, do exactly what he tells you and analyze what you are learning. Ask question when confused. Try to do everything correctly, and finally, practice, practice, practice. Your progression will be slow and difficult if you don’t workout on your own.
MINIMUM TIMES
You can expect to spend a minimum of 2-4 months as a white belt, 4-6 months as a yellow belt, 4-6 months as an orange belt, 6-10 months as a green belt, 10-14 months as a purple belt, and 12-16 months before promotion from brown to black belt. Remember I consider 4 years a good time for making black belt. Karate is an art form, and like any art it takes time and effort to master.
TRAINING HINTS
Arrive early to class ready to workout. Bring a notebook and write down techniques that you learn. Log in time spent working out at home. Write down terminology that is new to you. Keep track of the things you need to work on or that your sensei or sempai suggest need added emphasis. You will find that this will keep each lesson fresh in your memory so that progression is more deliberate and measurable.
Stretch everyday. Flexibility is an important aspect of the martial arts. You will be taught many exercises that will increase your flexibility.
Learn the basics and don’t concentrate on the fancy stuff. The art you are learning is not “movie martial art”, it is an effective combat system that is designed to work in the real world.
Karate has many physical advantages. Karate training emphasize stretching and exercises are taught that will greatly increase the body's flexibility. Strength training is also included to improve muscle tone and increase muscle mass. Proper karate training stresses the cardiovascular system. This stress improves circulation and increases staminia. Additionally, reflexes are honed to a razor edge and the exercises are often helpful in weight control and loss.
As extensive as the physical benefits may be, they are vastly outweighed by the spirtual advantages. Karate promotes a true self confidence, and creates a feeling of personal worth and well being. Karate teaches to handle aggression in a positive way. The goal of karate is to aid a person in the living of his everyday life.
Karate has a side effect that makes it especially useful in todays aggressive society. The self-defense taught in karate is a practical self-defense. It teaches tolerance and non-aggression. To walk away from confrontation and to fight only when there is no alternative. But, if an altercation is inevitable, it teaches the skills to survive.
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Sensei William (Bill) E. Seyler started studying the martial arts at the age of twelve. His first style was in the Shito-Ryu system of karate. Eventually he obtained a ichi-kyu in this style.
Over time and his travels while in the U.S. Air Force he had the opportunity to gain knowledge and rank in several other styles of Asian martial arts. He currently holds a Nidan in both Shudokan and Shorin-Ryu, and a gold sash in Lau-Wing-Pai Kung Fu. He also has trained and demonstrated proficiency in many of the weapons unique to karate and Kung-Fu.
Sensei Seyler has been continually teaching martial arts since 1977 both in the United States and overseas.
EQUIPMENT REQUIRED
There are a several items that are compulsory to attend this class:
1. Loose fitting and rugged clothing, free from snaps and zippers.
2. Cup/Athletic supporter for males
3. Mouth guard.
4. Positive Mental Attitude
OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT
Besides the mandatory items, there are many optional items that will enhance your training. Several of these items are available through catalogs or can sometimes be ordered for you at a reduced cost. These items are:
1. Karate Gi (White). This is MANDATORY for rank testing. White is the only colored authorized for white - purple belts. Brown belts may wear “Salt & Pepper” gi. These are white gi with either a black bottom or top. Black belts have choice of white, black, or Salt and Pepper. Gi is MANDATORY for rank testing.
2. Foam type hand/foot Pads and Headgear. These items are MANDATORY for rank testing.
3. Weapons (Bo, Sai, Katana, Nunchaku, Tonfa). Required above green belt.
A WORD ABOUT TUITION
The cost of shudokan instruction is reasonable and we strive to keep it that way. We feel that everyone should have the opportunity to learn the arts, regardless of financial status. It is with this in mind that we set tuition.
Similarly, we expect that everyone will pay when required or make arrangements with the sensei. To “freeload” is disrespectful to your sensei and the other paying members of the class. If you are having difficulties with the tuition, contact Sensei Seyler so that arrangements can be made without impeding your training.
TRADITIONS
Shudokan is a classical martial art and Sensei Seyler is a classical martial arts instructor. You will be asked to observe many esoteric traditions. Tolerance is shown to newer students who break tradition. But, learn quickly, as you progress in rank violations of protocol will get you sternly disciplined.
In karate classes you rei to show respect for you art, your instructor, and your fellow students. You should rei to the entire dojo when you arrive or leave and to the highest person on the floor when you step on to train. You will also rei to any training partners, and at the beginning and end of kata and waza.
Mr. Seyler should be addressed as “Sensei” as should any other black belts during the course of the class. Occasionally we may have guest instructors in the class. For this reason it suggested that you get in the habit of using “Sensei Seyler” so that there won’t be any confusion.
A dojo is place of reverence and respect for those who learned before you. You should act like you’re in church when you’re in a dojo. The dojo is no place for “Trash Talk”.
Classmates are as important to you as your Sensei. They are your partners for stretching, self-defense, and sparring. Regardless of your respective ranks, they often know things that you don’t and can help you improve yourself. Always treat classmates with respect. Sempai should be conferred the same respect as your Sensei. They are often used to teach lower ranking students. Treat them as potential Sensei.
WHAT IS TAUGHT
Karate is all about mind/body integration and coordination. The mind is the master and the body needs to learn to respond automatically and reflexively in the correct manner. The Japanese Zen masters coveted training in the martial arts for this reason. Especially since the basic tenet of Zen is mental enlightenment through physical actions.
All students enrolled in this class are in a “Black Belt” program. That is, all techniques that are taught are for the personal development of the student with an eye on eventual promotion to black belt. Promotion to black belt requires knowledge of the traditional techniques and their modern equivalent. In addition it is not simply enough to be able to do any specified technique, a student must know when and why a technique is appropriate.
Modern self-defense: Varied techniques based on a wide variety of psychological and physical skills designed for self defense in todays society. These technques are not only confrontational techniques but you are also taught how to avoid danger and to escape without fighting.
RANKS AND REQUIREMENTS
Karate has a well defined and very specific rank structure. Rank does not come easily in a traditional dojo. Shudokan demands high technical and behavioral standards. No one that may bring discredit on the rank they’re trying to achieve, the martial arts, or this shudokan dojo will be promoted. This includes students that train poorly and students who have “an attitude problem”. The dojo is an autocratic society with the sensei at the top. He is the last word in the receipt of rank.
Rank tests are cumulative, the requirements listed below each rank are only minimum and additional criterion may be required for each rank. All rank tests include a written test on history and terminology that is geared to the level to which the student is trying to achieve.
1. KIHON WAZA:
(a) Dachi waza: Como-dachi, Kiba-dachi, Zenkutsu-dachi, Kokutsu-dachi.
(b) Uke-Te: Gedan-barai, Jodan-age-uke, Chudan-uchi-uke, Chudan-soto-uke, Shuto-uke. All performed stepping in zenkutsu-dachi and from a front kiba-dachi.
(c) Ashi-Waza: Mae-geri, Yoko-geri, Ushiro-geri, Mawashi-geri.
(d) Te-Waza: Oi-zuki.
2. KATA: Pinan Shodan and Pinan Nidan.
3. IPPON KUMITE: 5 against punch to the head, 5 against punch to the solar plexus.
4. JIYU KUMITE: 2 - two minute rounds
1. KIHON WAZA
(a) Te-Waza: Gyuku-zuki, Ippon-nukite.
(b) Ashi-Waza: Spinning ushiro-geri, Retreating yoko-geri
2. KATA: Pinan Sandan and Pinan Yondan.
3. IPPON KUMITE: 5 against punch to the head
4. JIYU KUMITE: 2 - Two minute rounds
1. KIHON-WAZA:
(a) Te-Waza: Hieto-ushi, Tieto-ushi
(b) Ashi-Waza: Kakae-geri
(c) Uke-Waza: Morote-uke
(d) Dachi-Waza: Sanchin-dachi
2. KATA: Pinan Godan and Sanchin
3. IPPON KUMITE: 10 -- Five against punch to solar plexus, five against punch to the groin
4. JIYU KUMITE: 3 - two minute rounds
1. KIHON WAZA:
(a) Te-Waza: Empi-ushi
(b) Ashi-Waza: Namigashi, Mikazuki-geri, Mae-tobe-geri, Yoko-tobe-geri, Kicking combinations.
(c) Uke-Waza: Tieto-uke, and cranesneck block.
(d) Dachi-Waza: Nekoshi-dachi.
2. KATA: Nahachi-ichi and Nahachi-ni.
3. IPPON KUMITE: 5 - against kicks
4. JIYU KUMITE: 3 - 2 minute rounds
1. KIHON-WAZA:
(a) Te-Waza: Tiger Claw, Tiger Mouth, Ippon Ken, Cranes beak strike
(b) Ashi-Waza: Jump spinning techniques, kicking from the ground
2. KATA: Passai and Chinto
3. IPPON KUMITE: 10 -- against Kicks with a wide variety of responses
4. SELF DEFENSE: 5 against a wrist grab (joint manipulations and pain throws)
5. JIYU KUMITE: 3 - three minute rounds
1. KIHON-WAZA: Break falls, single and double leg sweeps, scissors take down, leverage throws.
2. KATA: Keichi Kum; Weapon kata of choice.
3. IPPON KUMITE: 10 -- against a variety of attacks (including jumping and spinning techniques).
4. SELF DEFENSE: 5 against a knife attack.
5. KOBUDO: 10 Ippon kumite; Basic Techniques.
6. JIYU KUMITE: 3 - Three minute rounds (one opponent), 2 - Two minute rounds (multiple opponents).
There is a fee for each test. All colored belt test fees are $25.00, refundable if the test is failed. Black belt test fees are $100.00 non-refundable. The testing fee includes the rank certificate and a new colored belt.
The best way to progress in the martial arts is to listen to the instructor, do exactly what he tells you and analyze what you are learning. Ask question when confused. Try to do everything correctly, and finally, practice, practice, practice. Your progression will be slow and difficult if you don’t workout on your own.
You can expect to spend a minimum of 2-4 months as a white belt, 4-6 months as a yellow belt, 4-6 months as an orange belt, 6-10 months as a green belt, 10-14 months as a purple belt, and 12-16 months before promotion from brown to black belt. Remember I consider 4 years a good time for making black belt. Karate is an art form, and like any art it takes time and effort to master.
TRAINING HINTS
Arrive early to class ready to workout. Bring a notebook and write down techniques that you learn. Log in time spent working out at home. Write down terminology that is new to you. Keep track of the things you need to work on or that your sensei or sempai suggest need added emphasis. You will find that this will keep each lesson fresh in your memory so that progression is more deliberate and measurable.
Stretch everyday. Flexibility is an important aspect of the martial arts. You will be taught many exercises that will increase your flexibility.
Learn the basics and don’t concentrate on the fancy stuff. The art you are learning is not “movie martial art”, it is an effective combat system that is designed to work in the real world.
