Koyasan Karate Group
Every Saturday 10am~12pm – All Styles and Levels Welcome
I come to you with only Karate, empty hands. I have no weapons, but should I be forced to defend myself, my principles or my honor, should it be a matter or life or death, or right or wrong, then here are my weapons, Karate, My empty hands.
Words from Shorin-Ryu Karate Association – The Soul of Karate
Karate Class News
Promotions – June 28, 2025
Malea received her green belt and her father Leo was awarded a black belt certificate from the Koyasan, to complement the black belt he holds in Shotokan. Dave Jr. obtained his brown belt, a true milestone on his path as karateka. Congratulations to you all! Before: and after: We took a class photo to commemorate the occasion
Style Highlight: Kudo
Style Highlight: Kudo Article by David B, June 2025 Since its inception in the 1960's, Kyokushin Karate has gained notoriety as the "full contact" karate. Its founder, Masutatsu "Mas" Oyama, was a fascinating figure who deserves an article of his own. He promoted karate and built a worldwide empire. Kyokushin sparring can go very hard with heavy body shots and low kicks. Most notably, it does...
Article: Okinawan Karate Prioritizes Outcome over Form: Japanese Karate-do Does the Opposite
A great write-up by Hermann Bayer, Ph.d comparing the different approaches to karate in Okinawan and Japan. Dr. Bayer has been a karateka since the 1980's, with experience in Japanese Shudokan and Okinawan Shorin-Ryu Karate styles. Okinawan Karate Prioritizes Outcome over Form: Japanese Karate-do Does the Opposite The two contrasting philosophies of Okinawan karate-jutsu and Japanese karate-do...
Happy Birthday, Sensei Gary!
We just wanted to take a moment to recognize Sensei for his 70th birthday, and thank him for bringing us together and keeping us tough for nearly 50 years--and still going strong! Sensei was 22 when he first approached the Koyasan Temple to use their new social hall to teach karate. From his years of training under Derheim sensei, Sensei Gary had developed a strong work ethic that couldn't be...
Promotions – May 17, 2025
Brothers Benjamin and Dean received their green belts. They have brought youthful exuberance to the class and we've enjoyed watching them grow both physically and in skill. Congratulations!
NHK Documentary – The Spirit of Okinawan Karate
It was first aired 10 years ago (produced 3/17/2015), but this documentary is an excellent look into the multi-faceted karate culture in Okinawa, and the magnetic force that brings karateka from around the world to visit and train. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VuxCFB-gH9I
Thoughts from Sensei on Cumulative Effort
When doing static stretches, take 8-10 breaths for each stretch and try to sink deeper with each breath. Relax and breathe into the stretch in order to lengthen the muscles. Stretching and training is a cumulative process, and consistency is what cements your results. It may take years of practice to build up the benefits. Similarly, if you don't train, the barriers to your training will also...
Promotions – July 1st, 2023
Promotions to Yellow Belt for three of our junior members. Congratulations!
Class Photo – April 8th, 2023
Spring Session!
Promotions – December 10th, 2022
Eric H. receives his Black Belt and David S. jr (Shota) receives his Green Belt. Well deserved!
Thoughts from Sensei Gary
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Martial Arts begins and ends with courtesy. It is practiced by virtuous Men and Women.
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Avoid physical conflict if possible. If an aggressor wants personal belonging such as money, car keys, shopping bag; give these material items up. “What is important is that you survive the confrontation for your family’s sake”. Also, if there is a potential for conflict over a parking space or auto accident: Say “I am sorry” or “I don’t want any trouble.” Don’t engage unless forced to. But if conflict is unavoidable – then there are no rules in the street.
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Karateka Spirit – To always seek improvement through committed effort.
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Three areas for constant improvement – The three legged stool (Strength + Flexibility + Endurance)
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Movement and Space are your ally.
QUESTIONS?
Come train with us! Please don’t hesitate to e-mail us at koyasan.karate@gmail.com (or use the contact form below) if you have any questions