Origin and Meaning of “Martial” The word “martial” comes from the Latin word “Mārtiālis,” meaning “related to Mars”. Mars was the Roman god of war and also an agricultural guardian, symbolizing combat, conflict, and military strength. The term entered Middle English around 1325–1375 with this war-related meaning. The connection to Mars emphasizes qualities linked to […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
What Are Pressure Points? Many people associate pressure points with acupuncture and meridian lines, as acupuncture uses these points to promote healing and restore energy balance. In martial arts, pressure points are targeted to exploit vulnerable areas on the body for self-defense. While pressure points and vital points are related, they are not exactly the […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
Today, the word “Karate” is thrown around so loosely that it barely means anything anymore. For some, it means kids in white uniforms yelling while earning participation trophies. Others picture choreographed movie fights with exaggerated movements. A few still see it as an effective self-defense system, and luckily, more people are now seeking the real […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
Ishidatami Michi (石畳道) – Stone-Paved Road in Kinjo-cho, Shuri The Shuri Kinjo-cho Stone-Paved Path is a preserved section of an old road located in Kinjo-cho, Shuri, Okinawa, Japan. This stone path was once part of the Pearl Road, a major route during the Ryukyu Kingdom era that connected Shuri Castle to the southern regions of […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
How to Adapt Classic Karate Techniques to Realistic Self-Defense Situations Karate, a martial art with deep roots in tradition and discipline, is often associated with its iconic stances, punches, and kicks. While these techniques work well in controlled environments, adapting them for real-world self-defense requires adjustments. In a self-defense situation, you are dealing with unpredictable, […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
Historical Background Fukushuen Garden was built in 1992 to mark two events: the 70th anniversary of Naha City’s founding and the 10th anniversary of its sister city relationship with Fuzhou City, China. The garden was created to honor the strong historical and cultural ties between the two cities. Generations of Chinese immigrants from Fuzhou, known […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
Kihon is the foundation of Karate. It builds technique, power, and control. However, if kihon is practiced in a rigid and unrealistic way, it becomes useless in real combat. To make kihon effective, it must go beyond mechanical drills. Kihon as a Progressive Tool Kihon should not be seen as a set of isolated movements […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
A Life in Martial Arts While visiting Okinawa, I had the honor of meeting Tetsuhiro Hokama. He welcomed me warmly and took the time to share his deep knowledge of Karate and Kobudo. I had the opportunity to visit his dojo and the Karate-do Museum, which he personally established. Speaking with him gave me a […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
The Okinawa Karate Kaikan in Tomigusuku, near Naha Airport, is a large facility dedicated to the practice, education, and preservation of Okinawan karate. It serves both experienced practitioners and beginners, offering access to training, cultural learning, and research materials. The 3.8-hectare complex includes a main dojo, several training rooms, meeting and seminar spaces, and a […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
The Okinawa Prefecture Karate Museum, founded by Tetsuhiro Hokama (Hanshi 10th Dan), is located in Uehara, Nishihara, Nakagami District, Okinawa, Japan. It is situated on the second floor of Hokama Sensei’s dojo, which was established on February 16, 1978. The museum opened officially on January 11, 1987. Hokama Sensei began collecting items after inheriting artifacts […]