IMG_0178-548351ca72

The benefits of learning Karate Shotokan Do became apparent in the fifth or sixth century C. E., when a Buddhist monk named Bodhidharma brought the practice with him from India. On the trek from India to China, Bodhidharma used his hands to defend himself from predators and robbers. When he settled in China, he combined his methods with the strength and discipline of yoga to develop a strong martial art.

Merchants traveling from China to Okinawa took the techniques of Bodhidharma with them. The Okinawans practiced a precursor of kung fu and another martial art called Tode. A fighter named Sokon Matsumura put together the system of prescribed moves that became modern karate. The martial arts movies from the 1960s and 1970s contributed greatly to the popularity of this sport outside of Asia.

One of the major benefits of studying this martial art is that the student learns consideration. If a student has no courtesy and respect for fellow students, then that student does not deserve to learn the skills. Within the training hall, or dojo, all members must show courtesy to one another. Then, the lessons of the dojo encourage students to become productive and beneficial members of society.

Students of the sport learn discipline. In addition to learning the discipline of bowing every time they enter the dojo, students learn to allow no temper or ill feeling into the practice of the art. While the student will learn not to brag about his or her abilities, the student will still show courage and fortitude as he or she masters the art of self-defense.

Students will also develop better overall physical health. In addition to a stronger and more coordinated body, students will develop a focused and positive frame of mind. The success that many students have in their academic work and in their professional careers highlight just some benefits of learning Karate Shotokan Do.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

CONTACT