Are traditional karate blocks real or ritual? In this deep-dive discussion, we question the origins and effectiveness of "blocking" in kata. Is it martial wisdom or stage illusion? With references from Goju-ryu to UFC, and even Jim Carrey, we explore how distance, timing, and intent reshape everything you think you know about defense. A must-listen for martial artists and myth-busters alike.

Jim Carrey: https://youtu.be/h_vvI26NnwE

Paul Garner: https://youtu.be/skUgegwkX9I

Monty Python: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=piWCBOsJr-w

Are modern karate styles true systems or just collections of forms? 🥋 In this episode, we dive deep into the crucial distinction between karate "styles" and "systems." Discover why most modern karate groups are considered mere compilations of kata, lacking the integrated, functional purpose of true systems. We explore the origins of this distinction, from the haphazard introduction of Chinese boxing to Okinawa to the creation of the Pinan kata, which we argue were developed for school PE rather than practical martial application.

Join us as we challenge common assumptions about karate techniques, including the controversial origins of kicks like the roundhouse and the often-misunderstood purpose of "kime" (focus). We reveal how external influences and a shift towards recreational practice have diluted the original, functional intentions of karate kata. If you've ever wondered why your karate forms look the way they do, or questioned the effectiveness of certain training methods, this episode will provide a refreshing and insightful perspective. Tune in to understand the core principles that define a true martial system!

Tune in to Great Karate Myths: Debunking the Legends as we unravel the enigma of Ko-do Ryu! In this episode, co-host Nathan Johnson, the founder of Ko-do Ryu, shares its origins, tracing the name back to a conversation on a coach in Spain and its formalization between 2000 and 2004. Learn how the practice: "Ko-do To-Te", meaning "old way of China hand," alludes to the Chinese origins of the material and its focus on antique kata and pushing hands.

Discover the fascinating connection to Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo, and how Ko-do Ryu, much like Judo's development from Jiu-Jitsu, is a development of Chinese pushing hands and grappling. Nathan explains the innovative use of pushing hands as a form of randori for karate, enabling the application of kata techniques without prearrangement and leveraging superior contact reflexes.

Tom elaborates on Ko-do Ryu's core practice, which centers on understanding the original functions of antique kata inherited from China and Nathan's creative interpretations. He highlights the group's unique approach in seeking the original intentions and cultural context of these forms, rather than solely focusing on modern self-defense applications. This includes dismissing the assumption that all antique kata were for self-defense, opening up possibilities for other functions and martial skills.

Nathan also defines Ko-do Ryu's two "limbs," each with three branches:

Limb One:

1. Not intended for battlefield use.
2. Not designed for open use against professional warriors or trained opponents, though practice with skilled partners is necessary for proficiency.
3. Not intended for arena or sporting contests.

Limb Two:

1. Creates holistic fitness and acts as recreation.
2. Facilitates introspection, meditation, and spiritual cultivation (Standing or Moving Zen).
3. Facilitates effective confidence, character, and citizen building through rigorous, ritual combative experience aimed at individual improvement.

He summarizes Ko-do Ryu's value as:

1. A method of exercise and recreation.
2. A method of self-discipline and spiritual training.
3. A method of personal enablement and physical prowess development.

The discussion also touches on the evolution of research within the group, including Tom's extensive work on Kusanku, which he eventually unraveled as a method for disarming someone of a polearm, emphasizing restraint rather than ballistic strikes. This aligns with the philosophy of Matsumura Sokon, who emphasized "indomitable calmness" and forbidding "willful violence" in his 1882 instructions to a student.

Join us to delve into the rich history and profound philosophy of Ko-do Ryu, challenging conventional karate myths and revealing deeper insights into the antique forms. Don't miss this illuminating conversation!

Grab a seat in the dojo for Great Karate Myths: Debunking the Legends—it’s Question Time!

Our listeners dropped six awesome questions via socials, and we’re ready to kick them into high gear. Is the Sanchin Kata stance any good for armed fights if it flops in a street brawl? Are drunk pub brawlers scarier than knife-wielding pros? Why’s kata training cool for weapons but not bare knuckles? Plus, we’re spilling the tea on why katas take forever to master, how many you really need, and whether YouTube can teach you the moves. Our rotating crew of martial arts nerds brings the facts with a side of laughs, breaking down your questions with zero fluff. Tune in for a fun, no-holds-barred dive into karate’s wildest myths!

In this episode of Great Karate Myths: Debunking the Legends, the hosts tackle the misconception that karate kata are designed for self-defence. They argue that kata, rooted in antique forms like Kusanku and Chinto, were primarily for pre-emptive control and weapon use, not reactive unarmed combat.

Drawing on real-world violence footage and insights from self-defence expert Jeff Thompson, they highlight the chaotic, fast nature of real fights, which contrasts with the choreographed nature of kata. The hosts also explore how cultural influences, like Chinese stage combat, have skewed perceptions of kata’s purpose.

They emphasize that kata are noble, functional tools for restraint, not brutality, and discuss their modern relevance in Ko-do Ryu, where spontaneous applications via pushing hands replace outdated self-defence fantasies.

Back from our hiatus, we have fellow senior instructor for Ko-do Ryu, Kev joining us.

In this episode we talk about the recent release of Nathan's, 'The Great Karate Myth'. First published in 2006 and causing controversy over its claims, we find it is still controversial nearly 20 years later.

We answer the burning question, "Where's the Evidence!?"

Karate has evolved from its classical roots to the modern sport we know today. In the past, Kata was central to Karate and practitioners would repeat forms over and over again without much attention to their function.

However as Karate spread and sparring was introduced, Kata took a backseat. Early founders aimed to conform to the existing ideas of Kendo, a modern form of Japanese swordsmanship. Despite this, some influential figures in Karate did not favour competitive or free sparring.

Antique Kata like Sanchin, Seisan, Sanseiru and Naihanchin date back to the 14th century and came from China. The origins of Okinawan Karate Kata can be traced back to late 17th century, a period of time when Europeans were colonising the Americas, but the styles weren't named until later on, and some kata were associated with the Okinawan palace and its guards. Karate didn't gain serious momentum until after World War II.

In this episode we're diving deep into the fascinating transformation of Karate, from its perceived classical roots to the dynamic styles practiced today. We'll explore Karate's hidden history from its functional roots to the classical styles emerged later, and ultimately how it transformed into the modern sport we know today.

The phrase "function dictates form" is a variation of the design principle "form follows function." This principle of architectural design emphasises that the way something looks should be determined by its use rather than aesthetic considerations.

In a broader sense, "function dictates form" means that the design of an object or system should be based upon its intended function or purpose. For example, the thin flap of your eyelid is designed to snap down quickly to clear away dust particles and then slide back up almost instantaneously to allow you to see again, illustrating how its structure is directly related to its function.

This concept can be applied to various fields, from architecture to biology, indicating that the form of something is optimised for the function it is supposed to perform. It's a principle that encourages efficiency and practicality in design.

In this episode we discuss how this principle was used to determine the most plausible, functional essence of karate kata.

Blog: Kodoryu Karate and Kobudo