Understanding Karate-do !!

Recently karate has spread from Japan to all parts of the world. The reason for this world-wide popularity can be found not only in the powerful and dynamic elements of karate-do, but also in the combination of physical and mental training of this art of self-defense, which requires a healthy body, a sound spirit and a refined character. Further, the people nowadays might be very attracted by the beauty and the thrilling action of the karate movements.

Karate-do is an empty-handed technique, exercised with the power of one's own body and the basic movement can be developed into a superior level, at which the enemy can be controlled by a demonstration of strength like that of using actual weapons. The beauty of the essential techniques are demonstrated in the so-called " kata ", fixed exercises, through which the karateka rhythmically performs body movements, such as bending, jumping and balancing, backward and forward, left and right, up and down smoothly and fiercely, at low and high speed.
In the free sparring games, the offensive and defensive techniques, such as striking and kicking with simultaneous block-attack combinations, are performed with great speed, requiring a keen coordination of the movements of the athlete.

Karate-do might be considered as the most ideal physical exercise, not only because the limbs and the movements of the body are systematically trained, but also because of the required exercise of muscles, which are normally not used.

Karate-do as an art of self defense and a form of physical exercise has recently become a competitive sport. However, the karate contests are conducted under strictly fixed rules, because of the involved physical danger. A good fighting spirit of the karateka, in possession of controlled power and techniques and a fair judgment of the referee, together with the sensitive reaction of the spectators are important to create the true meaning of a karate contest.

Karate may be practiced by the physically weak, by women, children and elderly and all the karateka 's should always emphasize the spiritual of karate-do !!

Ref : The above information has been taken from the J.K.A information guide book.

What is Kodokan Judo?

Judo is many things to different people. It is a fun sport, an art, a discipline, a recreational or social activity, a fitness program, a means of self-defense or combat, and a way of life. It is all of these and more.
Kodokan Judo comes to us from the fighting system of feudal Japan. Founded in 1882 by Dr. Jigoro Kano, Judo is a refinement of the ancient martial art of Jujutsu. Dr. Kano, President of the University of Education, Tokyo, studied these ancient forms and integrated what he considered to be the best of their techniques into what is now the modern sport of Judo.
Judo was introduced into the Olympic Games in 1964 and is practiced by millions of people throughout the world today. People practice Judo to excel in competition, to stay in shape, to develop self-confidence, and for many other reasons. But most of all, people do Judo just for the fun of it.
Judo is Fun!
As in all sports, Judo has a strict set of rules that governs competition and ensures safety. For those who want to test their skills, Judo offers the opportunity for competitionat all skill levels, from club to national tournaments, to the Olympic Games. There are separate weight divisions for men and women, and boys and girls.
Judo is best known for it's spectacular throwing techniques but also involves considerable grappling on the ground utilizing specialized pins, control holds, arm locks, and Judo choking techniques. Judo emphasizes safety, and full physical activity for top conditioning. Judo is learned on special mats for comfort and safety.
Judo is unique in that all age groups, both sexes, and most disabled persons can participate together in learning and practicing the sport. Judo is an inexpensive, year-round activity, that appeals to people from all walks of life. Many people over sixty years of age enjoy the sport, as well as very young boys and girls.
Judo develops self-discipline and respect for oneself and others. Judo provides the means for learning self-confidence, concentration, and leadership skills, as well as physical coordination, power, and flexibility. As a sport that has evolved from a fighting art, it develops complete body control, fine balance, and fast reflexive action. Above all, it develops a sharp reacting mind well-coordinated with the same kind of body. Judo training gives a person an effective self-defense system if the need arises.
The Judo Rank System
Judo created the system of ranks, now used in most other martial arts, that recognize a person's degree of knowledge, ability, and leadership. There are separate ranks for juniors (under 17) and seniors. Judo ranks are identified by colored belts, and ten degrees of advanced grades for black belts. Regular advancement encourages students to achieve more.
Principles and Goals of Judo
Judo, which is translated as the "gentle way", teaches the principle of flexibility in the application of technique. This is the flexible or efficient use of balance, leverage, and movement in the performance of Judo throws and other skills. Skill, technique and timing, rather than the use of brute strength, are the essential ingredients for success in Judo. For example, in Judo classes you may learn how to give way, rather than use force, to overcome a stronger opponent.
The principles of Judo, such as "Maximum Efficiency" and "Mutual Welfare and Benefit", can also be used in our dealings with others in life. The ultimate goal in Judo is to develop oneself to the maximum extent possible, always striving for perfection, so that you can contribute something of value to the world.

Frist Question for me

Is Aikido better than karate/judo/any other martial art?
Though there are many paths
At the foot of the mountain
All those who reach the top
See the same moon.
This is an extremely controversial question and has generated much heated debate in forums such as the rec.martial-arts newsgroup.

The answer to this question is very subjective - students of any particular martial art tend to favor that one over any other (otherwise they would probably be studying the other martial art).

There are many different but equally valid reasons for studying any martial art, such as for self defense, for spiritual growth or enlightenment, for general physical health, for self-confidence and more. Different martial arts, and even different styles within a particular martial art, emphasize different aspects.

Hence 'better' really depends on what it is you want out of a martial art. Even given this distinction, it is still a very subjective question so perhaps a better one would be 'Is Aikido better than any other martial art *for me*?'

This can only be answered by the individual asking the question. The rest of this FAQ may help you in some way towards finding that answer.

An alternative way to answer this question is to simply say, 'No, Aikido is not 'better' or 'worse' than any other martial art. It is simply different.'

Dojo Etiquette
Proper observance of etiquette is as much a part of your training as is learning techniques. Please take the following guidelines seriously.
1.When entering or leaving the dojo, it is proper to bow in the direction of O Sensei's picture, the kamiza, or the front of the dojo. You should also bow when entering or leaving the mat.

2.No shoes on the mat.

3.Be on time for class.If you do happen to arrive late, sit quietly in seiza on the edge of the mat until the instructor grants permission to join practice.

4.If you should have to leave the mat or dojo for any reason during class, approach the instructor and ask permission.

5.Avoid sitting on the mat with your back to the picture of O Sensei or the kamiza. Also, do not lean against the walls or sit with your legs stretched out. (Either sit in seiza or cross- legged.)

6.Remove watches, rings and other jewelry before practice.

7.Do not bring food, gum, or beverages with you into the dojo.

8.Please keep your finger and toe nails cut short.

9.Please keep talking during class to a minimum. What conversation there is should be
restricted to one topic -- Aikido.

10.Carry out the directives of the instructor PROMPTLY. Do not keep the rest of the class waiting for you!

11.Do not engage in rough-housing or needless contests of strength during class.

12.Keep your training uniform clean, in good shape, and free of offensive odors.

13.Please pay your membership dues promptly. If, for any reason, you are unable to pay your dues on time, talk with the person in charge of dues collection. Sometimes special rates are available for those experiencing financial hardship.

14.Do not change your clothes on the mat.

15.Remember that you are here to learn, and not to gratify your ego. An attitude of receptivity and humility (though not obsequiousness) is therefore advised.

16.Preserve common-sense standards of decency and respect at all times.