Quick, powerful strikes and kicks characterize the art of Karate.
Developed on Okinawa as a farming people's fighting art, Karate underwent radical changes when introduced to Japan in the early 1900's. Many of the movements were simplified and made to suit the ideals handed down in old sword and jujutsu schools. The result is a distinctively Japanese approach to Karate.
Gichin Funokoshi's Shotokan is one of the most influential Japanese styles. At Sandia Budokan we practice a very similar style known as Nippon Koryu Karate-Do (Japanese old style karate way). This tradition rejects the sporting and competitive trend of modern karate, and emphasizes the aspects of self-discipline and polished technique integral to the older styles.
Students practice five general areas of this art: fundamental techniques (kihon); traditional forms (kata); sparring in its various forms (kumite); self-defense (goshinjutsu); and application of techniques through breaking and bag work (tameshiware). Advanced students study the traditional Bo, Sai, Tonfa and Tanto weapons as well.
Mr. Richard Roche, Karate-Do Instructor.
Mr. Roche has studied karate at Sandia Budokan since 1991. He currently holds the rank of Oku-Sandan in Nippon Koryu Karate-Do.